• Jacob Martin recognized on Town’s Wall of Honor 12A
• Women’s group volunteers with goals of literacy 16A
• Cross Schools athletes score state championship 18A
• Solicitor expands ser vices for sexual assault survivors 22A
• Volunteer finds peace walking dogs 24A
Workers in 50,000 households in Beau fort and Jasper counties are not making a living wage.
“At the beginning of 2022, we were using $57,000 as the livable wage for our area. Based on the data, we are now utilizing $75,000 as the livable wage,” said Courtney Hampson, executive director of Bluffton Self Help.
The data Hampson uses comes from the U.S. Census Bureau and MIT’s living wage model that generates a cost of living estimate. As calculated, the living wage estimate accounts for the basic needs of a
family, but does not include items many Americans take for granted, such as dining out, entertainment, leisure time, holidays or the ability to save to buy a house or invest for retirement.
“100% of the neighbors we serve are atrisk,” said Hampson. “Families in poverty are living in sub-optimal housing and are food insecure. They receive food stamps and government assistance. As many as 30% have children under 18.”
Hampson breaks the at-risk categories into three groups for both counties: poverty, earning less than $25,000; vulnerable, earning between $25,000 and $50,000;
Please see WAGES on page 10A
Bluffton Town Council will hold a Strategic Planning Workshop Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. through the afternoon in the Theodore D. Washington Munic ipal Building, in council chambers at Town Hall, 20 Bridge St.
The workshop is open to the public. A public comment opportunity will be available at the beginning of the meet ing, after a welcome and introductions.
Town leaders and staff members will review progress of the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Strategic Plan. Town staff members also will seek input from council regarding each action agenda item’s progress for future priorities.
Agenda items include updates from the Beaufort County Economic De velopment Corporation and Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority.
Discussion of key topics will in clude transportation, finance, historic preservation, affordable housing, green initiatives and key performance
indicators.
The FY 2023-24 Strategic Plan and its Action Agenda is available online at townofbluffton.sc.gov.
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The weekend of Nov. 4-5, my sons and I enjoyed looking at, listening to and sitting in exquisite, unusual, gor geous, expensive, historic, and exotic cars at the Hilton Head Island Con cours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival.
The event was held at Port Royal Golf Club, an excellent backdrop for this celebration of all things auto motive. The weather was warm for November, a perfect day to stroll the greens and examine the cars that piqued our varied interests.
So many of those vehicles were simply works of art. The Best in Show, for instance, was a sleek black 1936 Horch 853A Roadster that had caught my eye in its initial spot on the fairway. Interestingly, the car had also been named Best Rolling Art before winning the premiere title.
A few days later, one of the boys showed me a photo of some glasswork that his friend had created. The glass blower had transformed the fragile raw material into a beautiful, shapely and colorful vessel with small components that defied logic, except to its creator. It was simply divine.
“He learned from the best, and he became the best,” Chandler said of his artist friend. “And because he’s the best, he commands the best prices –people are willing to pay thousands of dollars for his work, not because they need it, but because they appreciate the art.”
This artist had also discovered and shared with Chandler some delicious coffee beans he had purchased, at a higher price than he usually pay for his beans. Chandler said it was most amazing coffee he had ever tasted. It was simply the best.
Not long after that exchange, Chan
dler told me about a conversation he had with another artist friend, a potter who was in the process of moving away from the area, and a bit anxious about his new locale. He wants to be accepted in the new community, but more than that, he wants his artwork to be accepted.
“You’ve just got to believe you are the best, your work is the best, and you deserve the best,” he told his friend.
As the friend walked toward his car moments later, Chandler said he heard him muttering the words as if he were savoring the idea: “The best. The best.”
Though these examples of “the best” are references to art, I think the con cept can apply to our daily lives, our work, and even our relationships with others.
We hear people talking about “living my best life.” We tell young students who are just learning lots of things,
from matching shapes to reading to drawing, “just do the best you can.”
In our discussion of what makes something the best, Chandler and I concluded that it becomes easier to be the best and create the best when you surround yourself with excellence. It becomes natural for you to expect the best of yourself. It sets the baseline for what could be.
Whether your influence is the best coffee, the best art, the best cars, or the best music, one is bound to benefit from that influence.
Remember that what makes it the best is not just the cost or who made it. It’s the story of its creation.
When you consider what might be hindering you from living your best life, being your best self, or doing your best work also consider your surroundings. Are you surrounded by excellence? If not, maybe you could start there.
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The midterm elections are over, and the voters have spoken at every level of govern ment from local to state and national. As elected officials are sworn in, things may actually begin to feel somewhat normal (at least for a while) without the airways being flooded with all the candidate or party attack ads.
Weston NewtonIt is time for political discourse to be based on substance, with a goal toward respectful discussion of diverse ideas – that, incidentally, is what I believe our founding fathers imagined.
It is time for elected officials at every level to be about the business of making or implementing policy based on principles and serving all of the people – not just those folks who voted them into office in a partic ular election cycle.
My view of public service includes providing the highest level of constituent service I can to every resident and citizen of
South Carolina who reaches out looking for help with a state issue.
With the certification of the election results, the House in the coming weeks will hold an organizational session to elect lead ership, assign committees, and adopt rules for the upcoming legislative session which starts in January. As I have for the past eight years, I look forward to continuing my service as chairman of a standing House committee.
In addition to the House organization session, the House Republican Caucus will hold a planning meeting to identify our collective priorities for the two-year session. In keeping with my conservative principles and beliefs of personal responsibility and limited government, I intend to encour age energies be focused on continuing the reduction of the tax burden on individuals, along with increasing reserves and working to reduce or eliminate state debt.
Further, I remain committed to education reform and intend to advocate for improv ing conditions in the classroom for our teachers, greater transparency and empow ering parents. I look forward to working with the new Superintendent of Education to expand school choice.
To the Editor:
Lowcountry neighbor, true or false? Rising anger in American society is a serious threat to our democracy and accepted way of life.
Unfortunately, personally I find that state ment to be true.
Webster’s dictionary says anger is a po sition of extremism and indignation, often followed by a desire to get revenge. Yes, an ger is corrosive and diminishes the quality of American democracy, a position experienced and supported by many of us today.
Pew Research found 62% of Americans agreed that the structure of our U.S. gov ernment needs significant change. Further, political rage lowers citizens’ trust in our government and view it with hostility, skep ticism and outright contempt (Conversation. com).
“Americans are angry about everything,”
Christian Science Monitor.
“Americans are living in a big anger incu bator,” Washington Post.
“Our Nation’s Divided Future,” AARP Magazine.
Psychologist Joshua Morganstein finds anger is a common way of responding to three superimposed disasters: the pandemic, economic fallout and civil unrest.
A contemporary book, “The Angry Amer ican,” embraces positive anger management solutions to economic uncertainty, cultural divisiveness and political disintegration.
Here are some positive coping tools taken from these articles:
Insulate yourself from anger; limit your media exposure (it is often biased); stop, think, listen, participate in constructive dialogue; take action that produces positive results – consensus solving and the glass-is-
Additionally, I believe that we should and will urge a focus on statewide economic development that includes infrastructure improvements (roads, bridges and broad band). We have made significant progress in the past few years, fixing many roads and bridges, but decades of deficiencies and lack of action require time, attention and resources – not only to keep our citizens and visitors safe, but to make sure South Carolina remains a great place for businesses to locate or expand here.
We also need to expand and bolster workforce training opportunities and reduce or eliminate job killing anti-business regu lations.
However, one of the most important priorities that I will continue to advocate with my colleagues across the state is the protection of our natural assets. Protecting our sensitive waterways and salt marshes has been a constant during my tenure in public service. As we look toward establish ing priorities for the next General Assembly, that vigilance will continue to be on the top of my list.
Weston Newton is the representative for Dis trict 120 in the State House of Representatives. WestonNewton@schouse.gov
half-full philosophy; consider our children in your behavior.
Above all else, we need to practice forbearance with integrity and love in our daily lives. Reducing anger and its negative consequences begin with you and me.
Earle Everett Moss CreekThe Bluffton Sun welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be no longer than 250 words and must include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Email letters to editor@ blufftonsun.com.
With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events –
and just plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks
who are willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.
At the Hilton Head Island Motor
ing Festival and Concours d’Ele gance Nov. 5-6, we asked: “What is your favorite car ever, whether you owned it or not?”
Melon Doris, Beaufort: “Of course, it’s this one, my 1962 MGA 1600 MKII. I bought it in 1968 for $800. I drove it for a while, then it sat in the garage for 30 before my husband and I restored it.”
Elizabeth Garreau, Bluffton: “My ’97 Porsche 911 Targa, Type 993. The last ones were made in 1998. They were the last air-cooled 911s, therefore the last REAL 911s.”
Eileen Pyle, Allenhurst, Georgia: “My 2000 Porsche Carrera 911 convertible. I love the way it drives. It’s my daily.”
Kendall Roy, Hilton Head Island: “Overall, this one, a 2015 Ferrari 458 Spider. It is very comfortable, and drives in three modes: sport, wet mode and racing mode.”
Tom Hill, Windermere, Florida: “A 1963 Ferrari 250 California Spider. Some might know it as the car from ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.’ We have one like it in our collection.”
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Sunshine and cool breezes. Palm trees and margaritas. Welcome to Latitude Margaritaville, a 55-and-better community inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett, built on food, fun, music and escapism. Escape to the place where fun and relaxation meet. Escape to island-inspired living as you grow older, but not up. Escape to Latitude Margaritaville.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by Crosscurrents, a small group of liberals and conservatives who convene regularly for dis cussion of current issues. Their aim is finding common ground and reaching agreement on recommendations we can share publicly.
Almost three quarters of Americans think that the health and viability of our more than 200-year-old democracy is seriously threatened.
Our group, Crosscurrents, a small circle of everyday Americans composed of liberals and conservatives of all stripes, primarily from South Carolina, has been in continuous dialogue about public problems since 2019. We have reached agreements in bipartisan fashion on possi ble solutions and published these in local newspapers on a wide variety of topics such as health care, gun control, police reform and many more.
We serve as a model and living proof that Americans of different persuasions can agree on facts and work together productively on public problems.
Because we have never been more deeply concerned about our country’s self-governance, we have felt it important to take a stand now on the importance of facts and truth-telling in our democracy.
At the heart of our current troubles is the growing loss of trust in our election
system created by misinformation and inaccurate perceptions about our voting system, especially about our last presiden tial elections.
For this reason, our Crosscurrents group unequivocally asserts, based on accurate facts, that Joe Biden was duly elected and certified president of the United States in 2020. Likewise, for any remaining doubters that may exist, Don ald Trump was duly elected and certified president of the United States in 2016.
No democracy can survive based on widely shared false information which masks the true realities. There is not a set of alternative facts and no alternative universe to live and thrive in. With wrong facts, we make wrong choices, and get bad results.
As fellow countrymen, we the Ameri can people need to acknowledge and act on these simple but fundamental truisms. We can and must move forward from here to build on factual common ground to address and solve our most pressing public problems.
To learn more about our Crosscurrents group, contact rogbernier@gmail.com.
Crosscurrents members who devel oped this essay are Starr Barnum, Roger Bernier, Greg Blackburn, Haim Bober, Bruce Bunevich, Rob Darling, Raymond Dominick, Mark Koenig, Laura McFad den, Michael Sacks, Michael Swiecicki, Suzanne Yuskiw.
A native South Carolinian, Lynne hails from the capital city of Columbia, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism at the University of South Carolina. She moved to Hilton Head Island in 1984 for a typography job, not even realizing there was a beach. The next year, she met Amos, the man who would become her husband and soul mate. They married in 1990 on one of the beaches they discovered. A frequent crosser of the bridges to Bluffton, Lynne worked at the local daily for nine years and has been with the Sun since 2009. While her job is editing, she also enjoys writing, and is confident there is a novel in her head somewhere.
ENJOYS: Waterfalls, good coffee, hanging out with the fam.
Residents of the South Carolina lowcountry have access to expanded oncology services from St. Joseph’s/Candler where over a half-million cancer treatments have been performed in the last 5 years. They’ve received care that is nationally recognized for excellence, conveniently close to home at many locations throughout the region, including our newest location on our Bluffton Campus. The oncology specialists at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at St. Joseph’s/Candler provide innovative advances in surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with customized treatment plans to target your specific cancer.
Expect the very best in oncology care. Located near your home, in your community, at St. Joseph’s/ Candler.
and insecure, earning between $50,000 and $75,000.
Most of Bluffton Self Help’s neighbors come initially looking to enroll to shop at The Market, which provides a grocery savings of up to $400 a month, or they are applying for emergency financial assistance.
“However, we know that when someone comes to us in crisis, there are at least three to five other issues also currently impacting their situation,” Hampson said. “It could be unreliable childcare, transportation, a reduction in work hours, or an increase in housing costs.”
That increase could hit renters in at-risk situations when current rental assistance programs expire. In Beaufort and Jasper County, 36% of the homes are sub-optimal, meaning they lack working plumbing, have an incomplete kitchen – think dorm fridge and hot plate, and there may be multiple families are living together in one space.
It keeps Hampson up at night.
“Neighbors who have had assistance with their rent will be faced with a rent bill that is now higher than it was when they applied for the program. When the Child Tax Credit enhancement doesn’t appear on tax returns in Quarter 1, it will be another reality check,” she said.
Bluffton Self Help is also planning for the moment when families lose their rentals be
cause they cannot meet the income require ment, cannot afford a 30% increase, and/ or the developer’s tax credits for affordable housing expire and are not renewed.
At the same time a year ago, the average number of neighbors being served was 1,300 per month. For the past six months, that number has increased to 2,000.
In a report from the United Way Asso ciation of South Carolina, the amount of money needed to meet the costs of a family’s basic needs increased between 2016 and 2020 in all counties. For a family with two adults, one preschooler, and one school-age child, that cost of living increased on aver age by 16% across the state.
This contrasts with the median wage, which increased only 8% over this period.
The report – “The Self-Sufficiency Stan dard for South Carolina 2020” – defines the minimum income needed to realistically support a family, without public or private assistance.
For example, a Beaufort County family with two adults, both working, with one preschooler and two school-age children, needs $75,000 to be self-sufficient.
An itemized list estimates the 2020 cost of housing, child care, food, health care, transportation, and miscellaneous items, as
well as the cost of taxes and the impact of tax credits. The interactive online report on the UWASC website covers all 46 counties, and can be adjusted to define family sizes, from one adult to couples with children of different age groups.
Vulnerable families are scraping to get by and are often faced with the decision of which bill to pay and which bill to skip. Insecure families may have a little savings, but an illness resulting in lost wages or a large household expense will cause stress and disruption to the status quo.
This is the situation the staff at the Greater Bluffton-Jasper Volunteers in Medicine face on a daily basis.
“According to my reports, 6.9% of the population in Beaufort County live in poverty. Other specific areas are little lower, but even with those numbers, approxi mately 17% are without health insurance,” said Pamela Toney, the nonprofit’s executive director. “The average rent in Beaufort is $1,229, and in Bluffton it is $1,761. We are seeing an increase in people sharing apart ments and houses.”
Many of the patients who visit the clinic have never been to a doctor because they
cannot afford the insurance, although they make more than the national poverty level.
“The diagnosis is the less complicated part. I think the question is, ‘How do we take care of their medical needs?’ Many will take care of their children before them selves,” said Toney. “Many must choose between health needs and rent or food.”
Most of the patients suffer from hyper tension, obesity or diabetes. Medications are free if they are available in the clinic’s non-dispensing pharmacy.
Other pharmacy options include signing up for Med-I-Assist, which helps initially to pay for drugs, or WelVista, a South Carolina free drug program if the individual quali fies. If all else fails, then BJVIM pays for the drugs.
The free clinic partners with Bluffton Self Help to get their clients to a source of food.
Toney said patients are sometimes uncom fortable asking for food, although that is a big issue in getting people healthy. During the pandemic, BSH brought its mobile food truck to the clinic, making the food more accessible when the patients were at the clinic.
“Transportation is always an issue both
getting our patients to the clinic, and then to collaborating medical providers when we refer patients. Often it is not the transpor tation, but the money needed to pay for the gas,” said Toney. “We try to help our patients with gas cards and money for food when needed.”
The stress of trying to find the resources to pay for everyday necessities, under standing when to take medications, the
need to complete paperwork, the need to eat correctly all hinder the progress of the clinic’s patients.
“Caring for the medical needs of our patients is only part of their medical picture. Environment, education, living conditions all are part of one’s well-being,” Toney said. “Many of our patients live in ‘food des erts’ where shopping for nutritious food is difficult. Between trying to find suitable and affordable housing, jobs, and childcare, taking better care of themselves is last on their daily list.”
Hampson said the community is in crisis and more must be done. Partnerships and working relationships with other nonprofits, the school social workers, local government, county agencies, etc., are crucial.
“One flat tire away from financial crisis is now more like one trip to the grocery store. With an 8% cost of living increase, how will our neighbors survive?” Hampson asked. “A crucial piece of the puzzle is the employers in the area paying a livable wage. Are they? Will they?”
Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
Jacob Martin can add his Nov. 8 placement on the Town of Bluffton’s Wall of Honor to the extensive list of awards recognizing his long life of public service.
Martin joins an impressive list of hon orees such as Oscar Frazier, Sam Bennet, Jeffrey Robinowich, Michael C. Riley and Martin’s late wife, Ida Martin.
Born in Bluffton in 1928, he grew up on Calhoun Street in a family of 11 chil dren – six girls and five boys. Martin was seventh in line.
He graduated from the Shanklin School in Beaufort, one of several schools estab lished for black students at the time. He met his future wife, then Ida Magwood, while at Shanklin. They wed after his sophomore year at Allen University, while she was attending nursing school at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.
Martin recalled that the white teachers and the principal at the time – Emmett McCracken Sr. – would attend the graduations at the schools Martin and his siblings attended. Martin once said that despite the fact that the schools were segregated, the
small town itself was racially mixed and everyone did things together, particularly the youngsters, who would play baseball and other games, and then scrimmage and call each other names like kids do.
“Our family goes back a long way. We have always had a great love for our hometown,” Martin said. “Some of the people that I saw there are the folks I would see when I was out there, active and doing things.”
The guests at the Nov. 8 ceremony included Bluffton stalwarts Annelore Har rell, Larry Toomer, Laura Bush and Babbie Guscio, a few of the many who had seen Martin do some of those “things.”
“I felt gratified, grateful. I was over whelmed, but our roots go way back in Bluffton,” he said. “I was really surprised to see those folks there. They are Bluffton strong.”
Martin’s contributions to the commu nity included teaching government and economics at the former McCracken High
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School, serving as a district office admin istrator for 23 years, and as a municipal court judge for Bluffton from 1992 to 1995. He was also chairman of the Bluff ton Library when it was decided to build the current facility.
Martin was determined to stay home and become a “homegrown teacher,” as his mother hoped. Upon graduating from cum laude from Allen with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Martin applied to law school in 1950 at the University of South Carolina. The dean – a retired U.S. Army general – was going to admit him as the first black law student. When then-Gov. Strom Thurmond got wind of this plan, he rejected the admission, and the fallout was a news story that traveled up and down the Atlantic Coast.
After the “whoo-hoo with the governor” – as Martin called it – he was blackballed from any teaching jobs. He had also applied for a commission with the U.S. Air Force but was told he could only en list. He said he had a college degree and decided against that, so then he and Ida went to Detroit to join friends who had
moved there.
Martin applied to the Detroit Police De partment and began a career that spanned nearly 30 years in Detroit and then Waukegan, Ill., where he became chief.
In 1968, when Congress passed the Law Enforcement Assistance Program, which provided first responders a way
to upgrade their education, Martin got a master’s degree in public administration.
He retired from the force in 1977; in 1979, he and Ida felt the call to come home and returned to Bluffton.
The Bluffton-Hilton Head Island Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee honored Martin with a 2017 Lifetime
Achievement Award for his public service career and his volunteer activities, includ ing 28 years with Hilton Head Island’s Meals-on-Wheels program.
Martin also supported his wife’s contri butions to the greater Bluffton communi ty. At 60 years old, Ida founded Bluffton Self Help Inc. in 1987. In 2012, she also founded the Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen. President Barack Obama award ed Ida the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2011.
The Martin Family Park on Boundary Street was named in honor of Martin’s family in April 2021.
The couple had four children: the late Richard, Richard II, Constance, and Crawford Martin.
The Martin family’s mission of neigh bors helping neighbors lives on in the Bluffton community.
“That’s our custom. We welcome all good people who come here and find our home town and make it better,” said Martin. “Bluffton is a super place.”
Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journal ist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
It’s not every day that an after-school program goes on a dolphin cruise, but that was one of the impacts a few mem bers of a local women’s group had in the course of providing tutoring.
Edie Autouri and Alaine Peragallo, both of Bluffton, tutor at the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville. One of the lesson plans included a marine life unit featuring turtles, whales and other marine life.
Autouri was inspired. She worked with Capt. Amber Kuehn of Spartina Marine Education Cruises to set up a cruise for the kids. Eight children and two Agape staff members went on a cruise with the volunteers.
“That was the culmination of our unit,” said Peragallo. “It was great, be cause the kids have lived in the area for a while, and none of them had been on a boat or on the water and been exposed to those things, so it was a wonderful experience for them.”
Volunteering at Agape is one of the ways the GFWC (Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs) of the Lowcountry is involved in raising literacy in the area. Members live in both Beaufort and Jas per counties, and many live in Sun City.
The GFWC is an international wom en’s organization dedicated to communi ty improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.
Several volunteers are former teachers, like Peragallo, who taught for 13 years. She missed the kids but said she didn’t necessarily want to go back into the classroom, so this is one of the ways she still gets to teach.
Another program in which she and many others volunteer is Read Indeed, in partnership with United Way.
Education and Libraries chairperson Karey Norris said it has been rewarding to recruit and recommend members and friends to tutoring children at Ridgeland Elementary and Red Cedar Elementary in Bluffton. They are just beginning tu toring kindergarten through fifth grade
in Red Cedar and kindergarten through first in Ridgeland.
“Read Indeed is a national program, and their job is to scout out volunteers to go into the schools,” said Norris.
“We’re with a child 25 minutes and then we get another child. … Next week, I see three different teachers and I will be helping with math as well as reading.”
The GFWC also wanted to do some thing at a library and contacted the Hardeeville branch. At the monthly story time, the volunteers expanded the program to include songs and crafts to go with the theme of the month, and gave out gift bags that include a snack and maybe some pencils, stickers, or stamps.
“We’re excited about it because one of our members plays a guitar and will play songs, and my husband wants to bring percussion instruments for the kids to try, too,” Norris said. “We want to expand it and get the parents in volved with this part of the education, and the kids can have a good time and learn. … Every child needs that one-onone, someone to give them attention, and show them some love and encour agement. Everybody needs that, but especially kiddos.”
J. Saunders is a veteran jour nalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
For nearly 20 years, the sports program at Cross Schools has been defined by poten tial. The Bluffton private Christian school has fielded teams and preached patience.
But as the school has incrementally built its student body, adding one grade each year, parents like Suzie Hollings have watched star athletes develop at Cross, only to achieve titles at other area high schools.
“I’ve been a parent here for 12 years, a teacher and now a sports leader,” said Hollings, in her first year as athletic director at Cross. “We knew what we were building, but we had to watch these amazing kids go elsewhere to help hang title banners in the gym or in the school halls.”
That all changed Nov. 5, as the wom en’s cross-country team won the school’s first-ever varsity level state title, earning the honors at the SCISA Class 1A State Meet in Columbia.
Cross hasn’t graduated its first senior class yet, and the track program has been run
ning varsity races for only three years. And now, the women have a title and the men’s team finished as state runners-up. The women’s team placed six runners in
the top eight finishers, with a team whose top five runners haven’t reached 10th grade. Ninth grader Elizabeth von Maur took third place, followed by eighth grader Aria Mattis
(fourth), freshman Maggie Drury (sixth) and middle schoolers Reese Monteiro (seventh) and India Collins (eighth).
“These girls, they’re competing against 11th and 12th graders and they just com pletely rocked it,” Hollings said. “There were a lot of competitors in awe. It was awesome to see these girls make history for our program.”
The men’s team was led by seventh grader Moss Leroux, who took fifth place for the Stingrays. Shiloh Hunter-Daniel (8th place), Chase McDaniel (10th place), and Logan Greene (11th place) are all middle school students at Cross.
“It’s going to take a few years for these kids to truly understand the milestone they achieved, the history they were part of,” said Hollings, who praised coaches Wendy Cummings and Dr. Nancy Ungvarsky for their unwavering leadership. “We know what we’ve been building here, but this is a moment where we have really turned a corner.”
The school competed in SCISA for the first time just last year, fielding mostly JV teams and having only a soccer field on its home campus that doubled as a middle school football field. But it has been a sea son of big happenings for the school.
The football team competed in SCISA for the first time, a 12-player roster competing against teams at least three times its size –in numbers, but often times, in physical stature. Yet the Stingrays placed two players on the All-Region team, with linebacker Jose David Garcia and safety Rivers Palmer taking home the honors.
The women’s volleyball team has explod ed in popularity, as coach Bill Crumrie has built a program with a varsity, JV and an A and B squad at the middle school level. The varsity team went 8-2 this fall, playing in a region mostly against Class 2A team since not enough area 1A teams fielded a program. One of their losses en route to the state quarterfinals was to Patrick Henry, the eventual Class 2A state champion.
Three of the school’s elder athletes, juniors Bethany Carlson, Emma McCollum and Hana Nelson, were all named to the Class 1A All-Region team, and Crumrie was named Co-Coach of the Year.
Mattis, von Maur, Drury and seventh grader Gretchen Holmes earned women’s cross-country All-Region honors, while twins Max and Moss Leroux were named to the men’s cross-country All-Region team.
“I’m so happy for these kids, for their families and for all the supporters of our programs,” Hollings said. “We have grown such leaps and bounds in such a short time. To see these teams mature, to finally tell
families they can stay at Cross to earn varsi ty titles, it’s an exciting time for all of us.”
This winter, the boys and girls basketball programs will field varsity teams for the first time. And the Stingrays sporting clays team will compete on the JV level for the first time after winning a middle school state title last season. The team is led by Trent Luechtefeld, the state’s top shooter in 2021, scoring 98 out of 100 in the state middle school championship.
“These coaches, these kids, they’re all helping to build a legacy here. Our ninthgrade enrollment is nearly reaching capaci ty,” Hollings said. “These families, they’re all part of history. The first to hang banners on our walls, the first to wear varsity uniforms. As a parent who has been here for so long, it is just incredible to see. And to know the true talent we have, the potential ahead of us, we’re just all so proud.”
Hollings said the school still has 76 acres of land to build on, so the hope is to build a baseball and softball complex, tennis courts, and a football field with a regulation track over the next decade.
But for now, seeing the kids raise their first varsity state title is an epic moment in time.
“We have been the best-kept athletic se cret around for some time now, but I think the word’s getting out that Cross is here to compete,” Hollings said. “I think it’s going to truly sink in when we have our first senior class next year, to see just how far we’ve come.”
As the 20th anniversary of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance came to an end Nov. 6, the 1936 Horch 853A Special Roadster owned by Mr. Robert S. Jepson, Jr. of Savannah, Georgia was named Best of Show.
The sleek vehicle was determined by judges to be Best Rolling Art prior to win ning the coveted title.
Other top winners were: Best Produc tion/Performance: 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible, owned by Robert and Suzanne Thomas of Indianapolis, Indiana; Best Road & Track: 1939 Lea-Francis Corsica Super Sport, owned by Jim and Sue Wulf of Doylestown, Pennsylvania; Best Motorcycle: 1936 Brough SS80, owned by Andrew Meislin of Camas, Washington; and ACE Hardware of Hilton Head People’s Choice Award: 1956 BMW 502, owned by Paul and Jayne Queck of Indianapolis, Indiana.
The grand finale was held at the Port Roy al Golf Club on Hilton Head. More than 600 collector vehicles from around the country were presented throughout the event, taking visitors on a journey of innovation, history art and design.
This year’s event schedule included ex hibits, seminars, driving tours and designer events that revealed a compelling weekend for every generation in attendance. Nightly events and special programming allowed guests to appreciate the scope, vibrancy and heart of the event, which supports many
charity initiatives and scholarships each year.
“As we celebrate this milestone occasion, 20 years since our founding, we are grateful for the vision of our board, event team and organizers,” said Lindsey Harrell, the festi val’s president. “Over the course of the last two decades, our vision has grown into one of the most robust motoring events on the East Coast. … We are grateful to everyone who supports us in achieving our goals.”
The Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival finished its anniversary showcase strongly with displays for guests old and new. Exhibitors and sponsors alike continue to champion inter est and leadership in the world of mobility. Highlights include: Driving Young America’s Michelin Junior Challenge Design involving more than 100 Beaufort County high school students, milestone Life Exhibit collection from Silver Screen to Off Road favorites, Valkyrie Racing’s PXG Polar Porsche from a journey around the globe, Best of Show Hall of Fame vehicles, Wheels of Japan, Dirk and Alexandra de Groen, long-time supports highlighted as the Honored Collector, first time female Pinnacle Collector Anne Brock inton Lee and more.
A complete list of winners and awards will be posted to the Festival’s website before the end of the month. For more information on this year’s winner or for information on the 2023 show, visit the official website at HHIConcours.com.
The 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office cele brated Forensic Nurses Week Nov. 6-12 as it expanded services for adult survivors of sexual assault.
The 14th Circuit Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Program now can treat adult patients of sexual assault within the Victims Services Center in its medical exam room, thanks to a new partnership with Ulmer Family Pharmacy & Wellness Center in Bluffton.
“Addressing intimate-partner violence, sexual assault and human trafficking is a top priority for me,” 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone said. “We have the only Family Justice Center in the state that provides services to victims, regardless of where they live. Our community and nonprofit partners have joined us in our commitment to provide compassionate, safe, private and professional services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and other crimes against vulnerable people.”
Since the program’s inception in 2019, more than 100 adult sexual assault exams have been provided by SAFE Program forensic nurses at hospital emergency rooms in Beaufort County. Exams at area ERs will continue, but now adults have the choice to
receive services at the 14th Circuit Victims Services Center at 108 Traders Cross in Okatie, as well.
Forensic nursing services are available for adults during normal business hours or by calling the center at 843-790-6220 to schedule an appointment. Patients needing after-hours care are encouraged to call 911 or visit their nearest emergency room.
“We believe that the more people who know about services, the better,” said foren sic nurse Jennifer Talley, who oversees the SAFE Program and its forensic nurses. “We provide the specialized care that patients impacted by violence, abuse and trauma deserve and require.”
The aim of the forensic exam is to assess a victim’s health care needs, coordinate treat ment of any injuries and collect evidence for potential use during case investigation and prosecution.
“Since the body is the crime scene, evidence is time-sensitive,” Talley said. “It is best to seek medical attention immediately.”
To learn more about forensic medical exams and the 14th Circuit SAFE Program, visit scsolicitor14.org/victim-services-center/ or call 843-790-6220.
Smashing through their previous record for charitable giving, the 12th annual Pledge the Pink breast cancer event raised over $715,000!
More than 1,500 attended the event at Fripp Island Resort Oct 20-23, with registrants coming from 48 states and eight countries this year. Joining them were a few friends, family, supporters and volunteers numbering well over 2,000 people who participated in the four days of festivities.
The long weekend included three 10-mile courses that registrants walked or ran on Hunting Island, Habersham and Fripp Island for a total of 30 miles. Among the “flock stars,” as participants are called, some chose to test their best time on the course, while some were content to merely walk the trails and soak in the scenery.
“Each day is different and unique in its own way. They love Hunting Island with its beautiful beaches and nature trails,” said Laura Morgan, founder of Pledge the Pink. “But this was the first time we took them to Habersham, and they were ab solutely blown away by the community’s beauty and architecture. And of course, there’s Fripp Island, who always rolls out the pink carpet for us in a way that is unmatched.”
The four-day event travels to different locations in the Lowcountry every year, bringing in thousands of tourists during the shoulder season. The “heads in beds” value the event brings to the Lowcountry is second only to the value of hope and financial assistance Pledge the Pink offers women in our community.
Their mission is to raise money for breast cancer screening, treatment, and research, and the majority of those funds remain here in the Lowcountry.
Last year, for example, Pledge the Pink raised $453,498 and well over half of that was donated to MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, Beaufort Memorial’s breast care program, and to Volunteers in Medicine on Hilton Head and Bluffton. Pledge the Pink also funded 22 other charities in 2021 including the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Mayo Clinic, and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The fundraisers themselves get to choose the charity they want their funds to be donated to.
Pledge the Pink will be held on Oak Island, North Carolina, for their 2023 event, one of the event’s first ventures outside of the Lowcountry.
Go to pledgethepink.com to register, sign up to volunteer, or make a donation.
Email: info@wellbeing-healthcare.com Website: wellbeing-healthcare.com
Pete Kiley has been walking dogs at Palmetto Animal League for five years. His smiling face is a welcome sight for the pets and people at the PAL Adoption Center.
He shows up three days a week or more, including holidays, to provide homeless dogs with the love, under standing, consistency and exercise they long for. For dogs living in a shelter environment, each day brings new people passing through. Being able to count on a dedicated volunteer like Kiley gives them a sense of familiarity and belonging.
“In addition to being a dog walker, I also take PAL’s adoptable dogs to commu nity events,” Kiley said. “I especially look forward to taking the dogs on field trips to local parks, shopping centers, neigh borhoods, and more. It’s fun to watch them enjoy new experiences.”
Kiley will be the first one to tell you that while he takes great joy in helping homeless dogs, it’s the dogs who have
helped him.
“A few years back, I was experiencing anxiety,” he said. “My wife told me it would be good for me to help these dogs. I finally took her advice, and from the beginning, I knew it was the right thing to do.”
Kiley not only cherishes his time with the pets at PAL, but the people as well.
“The staff members at PAL hold a spe cial place in my heart,” Kiley said. “I see all the hard work, care and hours they de vote to these animals, especially the ones with special needs. They have become like a second family to me.”
Kiley said seeing the love and compas sion PAL staff members pour into each animal made him realize the importance of his role as a volunteer. One particular day, fate had Kiley at the right place and time to witness the impact of his good works.
“After walking five dogs, I was tired and about to head home when Jesse caught my eye,” Kiley recalled. “He looked sad,
so I decided I could walk one more. We encountered a man whose dog had recently passed away. He sent a picture of Jesse to his wife, and just like that, Jesse had a forever family that he now accom panies to car shows with his very own chair and umbrella!”
Kiley has always had a heart for animals and currently has one rescue dog at home.
“Rescues have gone through some tough times, and they need that extra love so they can trust again,” Kiley said.
For Kiley, volunteering has become a way of life. It’s part of who he is. Helping homeless dogs find happiness, while also discovering a new level of peace and happiness for himself, has been a life-af firming journey.
“I enjoy each and every moment at
PAL,” he said, smiling. “I never lose sight of why I am there. For me, it has been a win-win in every sense.”
Palmetto Animal League relies on volunteers to fulfill the needs of some 200 animals at their no kill adoption center located at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie. Volunteers who generously give of their time and talents, are helping save lives.
Anyone interested in volunteering with PAL can visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org/ volunteer for information on different opportunities working with adoptable cats and dogs, helping with community events and fundraisers, or assisting at the PAL Thrift Store in Sheridan Park.
Lindsay Perry is the marketing coordinator for Palmetto Animal League. PalmettoAni malLeague.org
In a no-waste world, CD jewel cases become weighted stands for outdoor environmental displays, two-liter soda bottles are composting bins and cake sup plies from the local grocery store evolve into the perfect educational tool for learning about the impact of food waste on landfills.
These are just a few conservation ex amples students from Beaufort and Jasper counties studied at Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority’s (BJWSA) inaugural Sustainability Fair, held Oct. 26 at its Administrative Campus.
“We held the event in conjunction with World Sustainability Day, which is October 27,” said Lou Brown, public edu cation and engagement planner. “It’s been three years since our last in-person event for students, which was Trick or Treat ment. We were thrilled to host several community partners in the sustainability effort, along with 400 fifth graders from Beaufort and Jasper counties.”
Internal exhibits included a water-sav ing kit demo by Chief of Plant Operations
Brian Chemsak, P.E. and Water Opera tions Manager Kevin Sexton. Each stu dent took home a kit to test water leaks in their homes.
Director of Technology & Innovation Tricia Kilgore, P.E. taught them to identify common pipe materials and how to test for lead pipes. Kilgore also serves as the lead on BJWSA’s sustainability programs.
Supervisory Control and Data Acqui sition (SCADA) Administrator Jonathan Carey and SCADA Specialist Clayton Bal assi displayed their mobile system, which shows how technology can monitor the entire system and provide timely alerts.
Chief of Customer Care Linda Tillery and Human Resources Talent Partner Phill Lovell stepped outside their roles to become game show hosts, educating each group about “The Price is What?” and “What not to Flush!” respectively. Students and adults were surprised to see the costs of bottled water and milk compared to tap water and to learn that
Please see WATER on page 27A
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only toilet paper should be flushed – and never so-called “flushable” wipes.
Smaller exhibits highlighted several in ternal sustainability efforts, including the Great Swamp Water Reclamation project, an expanding solar array program and the importance of water reuse efforts.
In addition to internal programs at BJWSA, the Authority also showcased the work of Jessica Kochman with Port Royal Sound Foundation, Annie Boyd with Beaufort Conservation District, Jean Fruh with The Outside Foundation, Chloee McGuigan with Beaufort County Recycling and Kris Abell with SCDHEC’s Greenleaf Education program Take Action SC and Don’t Waste Food. With these partners, students learned about oyster shell recycling, what everyday items can be recycled, the importance of the Lowcountry’s ecosystem, easy ways to compost and how stormwater affects fresh water sources.
Students carried compostable passports to each station and received reusable water bottles as another take-home reminder.
“BJWSA’s new strategic focus plan em phasizes the importance of sustainability, complying with the federal revisions to the Lead & Copper Rule, and educat ing customers and stakeholders,” said Director of Public Affairs Pam Flasch. “We want this plan to have teeth and legs –and to be not only top of mind internally, but also to our customers, stakeholders and sustainability colleagues.”
BJWSA hosts an entire suite of educa tional outreach on their website at bjwsa. org/education-outreach. In addition to videos about the water and wastewater processes, there are lessons, experiments and activities for students of all ages.
Learn more about BJWSA’s commitment to sustainability at bjwsa.org/sustainability or #SUSTAINABLEBJWSA.
Gwyneth was born in Pennsylvania, raised in South Jersey, now living in Bluffton. She retired from the U.S. Navy after 26 years as a Navy journalist. She earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Norfolk State University (“Go Spartans”). Married 19.5 years to Tony, an adorable Welshman. They have two sweet rescue cats, Tigger the tripod and Benji (neither are spoiled). She is a member of Sun City Veterans Association; chorus, Sundancers, softball, art, and computer clubs. A Philadelphia Eagles fan, Gwyneth love pasta, sushi and great burgers. Love my family, friends. I have the best job.
ENJOYS: Books, performing, art, cooking
Coastal salt marshes are valuable natural resources along every coastline. South Carolina boasts some of the most expansive and productive salt marshes on the southern Atlantic coast. These environments provide food, shelter, and nesting locations for many marine spe cies, as well as acting like a natural buffer for the mainland, slowing and absorbing the daily tides and storm surges. Coastal salt marshes also filter pollutants from the mainland, with oysters being one of the main contributors to this ecosystem service. Unfortunately, seawalls and rock revetments, originally intended to stop erosion, can make the problem worse. As a result, suitable habitat for oysters has disappeared in many places.
On Oct. 5, the Southeast Stormwater Association (SESWA) sent 15 volunteers from throughout the southeast to the Coastal Discovery Museum to bag recy cled oyster shells to help build new oyster reefs in the salt marshes around Hilton Head Island.
The Outside Foundation Executive
Director Jean Fruh oversaw the effort. In total, SESWA volunteers bagged 150 bags of oyster shells in a little over an hour. That is enough solid material for 15,000 oysters to colonize!
According to the South Carolina De partment of Natural Resources, a single oyster can filter 2.5 gallons of water in an
hour. The bags will be used next summer to help rebuild reefs through the Oyster Recycling and Reef Building initiative.
“It was a such an awesome experience to work with our members from Ala bama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee to help improve this special part of the environ
ment and partner with a local organiza tion that is doing good for the commu nity,” said Conference and Education Committee chair and project organizer John Butler.
“SESWA works all year long to provide the information and educational oppor tunities necessary to keep our members at the leading edge of the industry and this event gave us the opportunity to put those lessons into action,” said Executive Director Danielle Hopkins. “It is such a pleasure to collaborate with the local community hosting our Annual Regional Stormwater Conference, and we look forward to continuing this tradition each year in different communities across the Southeast.”
The Southeast Stormwater Association was formed in 2005 to assist stormwater professionals in the southeast as they seek solutions to surface water quality and stormwater management challenges.
For more information about this amaz ing organization, visit seswa.org.
Hilton Head High School senior Delcie Swift received the Gold Award from the Girl Scouts of the USA Sept. 15, in recognition of her in-depth study of shark species. Her presentation on the subject is now on permanent display at the Coastal Discovery Lab at the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn.
Swift began the shark project three years ago with the hope that it would improve the world’s perception and un derstanding of this keystone species. Her message is simple: Sharks aren’t scary!
The Girl Scouts Gold Award is among the most prestigious awards in the world, received by fewer than 6% of all scouts. A Girl Scout who has earned her Gold Award immediately rises one rank in any of the U.S. military branches.
Swift researched methods of sharing the importance of shark conservation, and Hilton Head shark expert Dr. Kim Ritchie suggested that early education was almost always overlooked. Swift launched her plan to spark a lifelong appreciation of nature conservation among children in
kindergarten through fifth grade, which is when children develop ideas and hone their perspectives on the world.
Swift’s project includes charts, dia grams, books and craft activities – even shark teeth – and it focuses on tough
issues: extreme overfishing, poaching of sharks worldwide, and the general lack of understanding about sharks. Movies and the occasional scary news report have created an image of sharks that is not accurate.
“I’ve known for a long time I wanted to build a career in marine conservation, and I wanted to share that with my commu nity,” Swift said. “I’ve loved educating people on something I am passionate about. I’ve learned how to talk to others about marine life conservation, as well as working with adults with a similar love for the ocean and sharks. This experience has made me confident that I’ve chosen the right career path.”
Swift intends to study marine life con servation in college.
“It has been a wonderful sense of accomplishment to hear from museum volunteers that my display is wildly pop ular among kids,” Swift said. “I felt like I had made an impact on the age groups I had hoped to reach.”
When enough people are informed about an issue, according to Swift, it can change the world. She cites the power ful global response to climate change as proof that many little things make a huge difference. Her next project: tagging great white sharks.
(Editor’s Note: This article is reprinted by popular demand from Thanksgiving 2021. To the best of our knowledge, all these entities are still making great pies. Call or check the website for confirmation of availability.)
Fans of these desserts are trying to figure out how pie became the go-to treat for our favorite holidays. The answer is quite sim ple. When the pilgrims came to America, they made it a mission to separate them selves from as many facets of British culture as they could. And dessert was one of the first differentiators.
Scones and bread pudding were quickly erased from the collective consciousness, replaced with a treat the Dutch immigrants had cooked up in the 1700s. The flaky crust and buttery gooeyness of pie was an instant fave, and the colonists used the abundance of apples the land provided to fill the
innards.
There was a recipe for apple pie in what many consider to be the first known American cookbook, American Cookery, in 1796. Baking that pie on the Fourth of July became the ultimate raise of the nose to the Brits.
The colonists expanded their palate on the pie front a bit, but the dish became a staple of all the biggest American holidays from the early days forward. Sadly, cookies and cakes never stood a chance against patriotism.
We are blessed to have an embarrassment of riches in the Lowcountry when it comes to professional bakers who have taken old school recipes and added their own unique twists on classics. So as you scramble to solidify plans and menus for your holiday family gatherings, here are some suggestions on where to order the best pies for your guests.
Please see HOT SPOTS on page 33A
Pet Portrait Tiles make a unique gift full of meaning! One tile will be permanently displayed at Palmetto Animal League in honor of a beloved pet and a second tile can be presented to your gift recipient.
All proceeds support PAL’s No Kill Rescue Programs.
We are going to avoid the superlatives for each one here in the interest of giving you down-and-dirty information. Safe to say, we’ve either tested their treats or they come highly recommended by our blue-ribbon panel of taste-bud experts.
Also, note that this feature is called “10 Hot Spots.” To honor the lusciousness we’re sharing, we’re giving you a Baker’s Dozen.
Mad Batter, Bluffton: Hampton Lake baker Kristen Barber just made her de cade-long hobby an official LLC back in March and has been winning raves for all her confectionary creations. She has a full lineup of pies available for order via email at kmadbatter@gmail.com. That includes caramel apple with classic lattice or a crumb topping, French silk, Baileys chocolate cream, pecan, lemon mascarpone cream, blueberry/mixed berry and cherry. Deadline for ordering for Thanksgiving is Nov. 19.
Hilton Head Social Bakery, 17 Harbour side Lane, 843-715-3349, hiltonheadso cialbakery.com: This Shelter Cove favorite is offering a limited-edition pie menu for Thanksgiving that includes eggnog cheese cake, pecan cranberry tart, Grandma’s spiced apple tart, and a holiday pumpkin cream tart. Call the bakery ASAP, as they might be sold out by the time you read this.
Signe’s Heaven Bound Bakery, 93 Arrow Road, Hilton Head Island, signesbakery. com: Signe Gardo is a Lowcountry insti tution, in the bakery business for nearly 50 years. Her deep well of pies includes chocolate chip pecan, fudge Snickers pie, key lime, fudge raspberry cream cheese, Georgia pecan, Nutella brownie pie, as well
as the classics like apple, pumpkin, mince cranberry and sweet potato pecan. Order sooner than later. They sell out fast.
Cahill’s Market, 1055 May River Road, Bluffton, 843-757-2921, cahillsmarket.com: The Cahill family does so many things well at both their Chicken Kitchen (hello, my chicken and waffles friend) and their market (with many of the fruits and veggies coming right out of the fields on the back of the land). Their pies are a Bluffton holiday tradi tion and this year, they have their delectable pecan and pumpkin pies available for order. Just make sure you get your requests in by Nov. 19.
The Speckled Apron, Bluffton, 727-6887422: Connie Dudek-Hoskins is another home-based baker who has gained a fol lowing in town. She is offering apple, apple crisp, pecan, pumpkin, lemon meringue, cherry and coconut cream pies, as well as New York cheesecakes, in four flavors, decorated cookie sets and cocoa bombs. Email her at conniedudek@yahoo.com for ordering.
The Sugaree, 142 Burnt Church Road, Bluffton, 843-290-8585: Todd Rackliff and wife Jo have a full breakfast and lunch menu of delights now, but I first discovered them for their baked goods (specifically, an amazing banana bread that rivaled my Nana’s). They will have pecan, apple, choc olate cream, pumpkin, cherry and coconut cream available for Thanksgiving, plus they are also offering a full dinner spread option if you want someone else cooking for you.
Please see HOT SPOTS on page 34A
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“At Pinnacle, we want our patients to feel like they are part of our family and we strive to treat them that way from the first time they visit. We pride ourselves on the customer experience. It is important to always keep up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely separates the gimmicks from the options that produce results. It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ goals and then help guide them to the treatments and procedures that will help us all work toward that shared goal. Your inner and outer you should be in harmony.”
“At Pinnacle, we want our patients to feel like they are part of our family and we strive to treat them that way from the first time they visit. We pride ourselves on the customer experience. It is important to always keep up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely separates the gimmicks from the options that produce results. It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ goals and then help guide them to the treatments and procedures that will help us all work toward that shared goal. Your inner and outer you should be in harmony.”
Just order by Nov. 20.
Sprout Momma’s Breads, 21 Cardinal Road, Suite 105, Hilton Head Island, 843815-2649, sproutmamma.com: Kim Tavino and Ryan Fennessey have been island staples for years, part of restaurant royalty families that have been running eateries since the ‘80s. They’ve focused their passion for food on baked goods with Sprout Mom ma’s (and also have an amazing pastries and lunch menu Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Their holiday baked offerings include pumpkin, pecan and deep dish Dutch apple pies, harvest spice bread, New York style vegan cheesecake, pumpkin cheesecake with cinnamon swirl and vegan pumpkin cupcake with cinnamon butter cream.
SweetCakes Bakery, 843-812-4153: The folks on the LowCoTri Eats group rave about pie magician Laurel Goodman. And they’re not alone. Southern Living declared her pecan pie the best in the South. Sweet Cakes provides all the pies for Lowcountry Cider and Superior Coffee on St. Helena Is
land and has a full array of pies available for order include pecan, salted caramel apple, cranberry orange chess, sweet potato praline and pumpkin. But order quick. These pies sell out every year.
Declan’s Delights, Hardeeville, 269-3521239, declansdelights.com: This homebased baker has created a stir with a lot of social media savvy, including a photo on Facebook of their cookie tray available for Thanksgiving (see, cookies, I’ll give you a little love, too).
The Purple Cow, 24G Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island, 843-681-2253, purplecowhhi.com: We’re such fans of “Bernie,” aka Lisa Bernstein, a staple of the island F&B community who is now focusing on confections as an homage to her mom who passed away in 2013. She has an amazing lineup available to be sitting on your Turkey Day table. Pumpkin, apple, caramel apple, apple walnut or pecan, key lime, coconut cream, chocolate pie, pecan and chocolate pecan and peanut butter, as well as a PieCakey (spice cake with a snick
erdoodle and caramel apple pie inside). Tight deadline here though, and Bernie’s selling out fast. Order by Nov. 17.
Sassy Sweets 843 Food Truck, 843263-3891: If you’re looking for a last-min ute solution that isn’t a big-box chain store, Shawnetta has you covered. She will have an assortment of pies and cobblers available the day before Turkey Day on the truck. Just follow her on Facebook or Instagram @ SassyTreats843 or email sassysweets721@ gmail.com to order in advance.
Bess’ Delicatessen and Catering, 55 New Orleans Road #112, Hilton Head Island, 843-785-5504, bessdeliandcatering. com: Bess Soper is an institution on the is land and in Bluffton, and Bess’ is celebrating its 40th year of feeding locals and tourists. They offer a full assortment of main dishes and sides for Thanksgiving, too much to list here. The pie menu includes pecan, key lime, pumpkin and apple. Have orders in by Nov. 24.
The Cottage Café, Bakery and Tea
Room, 38 Calhoun St., Bluffton, 843-7570508, thecottagebluffton.com: The list of awards that Leslie Rohland and her team of culinary geniuses have won is overwhelm ing, but it’s not just about the entrees. The bakery is equally impressive and the cre ations just as mouth-watering. The regular menu features 20 different pie varieties that you can order with plenty of notice, but the Thanksgiving menu is focused on Key Lime, Cherry Lattice, Chocolate Cream, Berry Apple Rhubarb along with apple, pecan and pumpkin. The Cottage is also offering a full-course meal pickup if ordered by Nov. 23 at noon.
We’re going to promote local bakers first and foremost, but we’re lucky to have some really strong options on the chain side just in case you procrastinate on the ordering and miss out on our homemade options. Cracker Barrel, Publix and Kroger all offer above-average pies in bulk.
Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun. com.
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park celebrates the return of its third an nual drive-through Holiday Nights & Lights event from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at the park, 229 Beach City Road on Hilton Head Island.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the holiday light display set amongst one of Hilton Head Island’s most im portant historic sites. As guests make plans to enjoy holiday magic at the park, turn it into an experience-grab some hot cocoa, turn on a favorite Christmas music channel, and be on the lookout for something that might usually be out of place in the park.
Organizers suggest visitors get in line early, starting at 5:45 p.m. or wait until 7:30 p.m. to avoid the rush and a long wait.
Please be patient with volunteers
and other participants. The cost is free, and donations will be accepted.
The Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organi zation whose mission is to replicate, preserve, and sustain an historically significant site and to educate the public about the sacrifice, resilience, and perseverance of the freedmen of Mitchelville and to share the story of how these brave men and women planted strong and enduring familial roots for generations of future Afri can-Americans. Set against the natural backdrop of Hilton Head Island, The Mitchelville Preservation Project will become the Lowcountry’s jewel Civil War attraction.
For more information about this event visit exploremitchellville.org or call 843-255-7301.
Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebra tion will host its second annual Holiday Market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 at Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Ave. on Hilton Head Island.
Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the market will offer a wide array of arts, crafts, food vendors, live music, and cultural performances, including “Keeper of the Culture” Aunt Pearlie Sue.
Gullah culture will be on full display with a full day of entertainment, includ ing live music performances.
The Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebra tion showcases the rich cultural heritage
of the Gullah people and their history on Hilton Head Island. Programming includes a variety of events designed to attract residents, regional, national, and international travelers. Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration events incorporate many facets of the Gullah culture. Visi tors have an opportunity to experience the food and music, receive firsthand historical information, and take a journey through the culture via the visual arts. For more information and compli mentary tickets to the event, visit gullah celebration.com.
• Swing into the holiday season with the new Hilton Head Big Band at its benefit dinner dance from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at Hilton Head Island Beach and Tennis Resort.
The all-volunteer band, consisting of 19 musicians and five vocalists, will be performing dance music of the ’60s through today.
Tickets are $10 each. An optional full buffet dinner is available for $20 per person. A cash bar will also be provided. Proceeds go to support music education for young local musicians.
Tickets for the concert are available on Eventbrite. Tickets for the buffet dinner can be purchased at the door.
• Sarah Chayes, a former journalist, advi sor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and interna tionally recognized expert on corruption, will be the guest speaker for the World Affairs Council of Hilton Head at its meet ing Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Head Pkwy. on Hilton Head.
Chayes will speak on the topic of “Cor ruption in America: What’s at Stake.”
The event is free for members; guests are welcome for $20. For more information call 843-384-6758 or visit wachh.org.
• Maye River Quilters will meet Dec. 3 at 9:30 a.m. for social time, with the meet ing beginning at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way in Hardeeville.
To attend the meeting as a guest, send an RSVP email to mayeriverquilters@gmail. com.
For more information and for member ship forms to join the group, call 843-7059590.
• Lord of Life Lutheran Church will host a Service of Comfort and Hope at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at the church, 351 Buckwalter Pkwy. in Bluffton.
The service is meant for those who are struggling with loss, whether death or illness of a loved one, loss of job, divorce, or any other loss. The quiet service will offer a
brief time to reflect and pray with others.
Reservations are not necessary. The ser vice is free and open to the public.
• Lowcountry Christian Women’s Con nection will hold its Celebrate the Season holiday luncheon and program beginning at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 7 at Hampton Hall Club house in Bluffton.
The program will include Christmas music and sing-along, holiday games, fun and prizes.
Speaker Corbina Ike of Rincon, Geor gia, will share her story of “A Whole New Adventure.”
Reservations are $28 prepaid to CWC Bluffton, mailed to Carol Mock, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton 29909.
For more information, call Julie Ott at 602-760-5465.
• James River Greyhounds’ local rep resentatives will be featuring retired race greyhound adoptions at local PetSmart stores on the following dates from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Hilton Head Island, first Saturday
of the month; Bluffton, second Saturday of the month and Hardeeville, third Saturday of the month.
Anyone may come meet these sweet gentle dogs and learn about their transition to pets after their racing years end.
For more information, call Chris Schlent ner at 847-321-1771 or Karen Shea at 804-356-4102.
• Lowcountry GRASP provides help, compassion, understanding and grief sup port for those who have lost a child, spouse, parent, sibling or a loved one to drug or alcohol abuse. The meetings are free, non-denominational, and open to anyone who has experienced this loss.
The next meeting will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Dec. 10 at the Bluffton Library. There is no cost to attend but pre-registra tion is suggested prior to first meeting.
For more information or to pre-register, contact Steven at 843-384-0938 or swe ber7151@gmail.com or visit the GRASP website grasphelp.com.
The Ted Flach Memorial Candy Cane Classic, an annual tournament bene fitting the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island, has expanded to include pickleball, in addition to its traditional golf and tennis.
The event will be held Dec. 3 at Sea Pines Country Club.
Golf begins with sign-in and breakfast at 8 a.m. and a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. Cost is $200 per person.
Tennis and pickleball starts at 10 a.m. for sign-in and breakfast, with play starting at 11 a.m. Cost is $125 per person.
Awards ceremonies with a lunch buf fet will begin when play has finished.
“The growth and popularity of pick leball has soared in the past few years,” said Kim Likins, director of the club. “We want to make sure those who have taken up the sport have a chance to join our tournament and enjoy all the day
has to offer.”
Now in its 22nd year, this fundraiser has raised more than $850,000 to sup port the Club’s mission to serve local youth.
The event is open to the public. For more information and to register, visit bgchiltonhead.org/events.
The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving local youth with a wide variety of educational, recreation al, cultural and enrichment activities.
Bluffton’s American Legion Post 205 has announced it will sponsor a 2023 High School Oratorical Schol arship Program, with the opportunity for students to win up to $27,600 in scholarship funds.
The Constitutional Speech Contest is open to all Bluffton area high school students in grades 9 through 12 and all Bluffton home-schooled students.
This includes students from Bluffton High School, May River High School, Hilton Head Christian Academy and Cross Schools. Additionally, students must be under 20 years of age and citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States.
The 2023 assigned topic is “The Constitution of the United States,” designed to help students develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution.
The local competition begins Jan. 14 at the Bluffton Public Library.
The winner will progress to a South Carolina American Legion Quadrant contest. Quadrant winners then com pete at the state competition, with that winner traveling to Washington, D.C., for the national competition.
Scholarship prizes are awarded at each level:
Post 205, Bluffton: $100 for first place, $50 for second and $50 for third
Quadrant: $500 for first, $300 for second and $100 for third and fourth State: $2,000 for first, $,1000 for second and $500 for third and fourth National: $25,000 for first, $22,500 for second, and $20,000 for third
For more information and to register for the local contest, students should contact their high school counselor or American Legion Post 205 mem bers Paul Reinhard at pnreinhard@ hargray.com, or Stephen Robillard at stevescout@aol.com.
It is crazy how we round the corner past Halloween and Thanksgiving always seems to come up on us so quickly as adults.
It’s in direct contrast to my memories of Turkey Day growing up in Maine. My mom was an amazing cook, but especially as my three older sisters became adults, I know she was bored just cooking the same old dishes for Dad and me.
Thanksgiving was the day to step out of the box, and boy, did she ever shine.
The day itself – and especially the slow roasting of the turkey – always felt like slow motion. We’d watch football until we were called on to be stuffing testers or to whip the mashed potatoes. This epic spread mostly just seemed to appear out of thin air. Mom always made it seem so effortless.
Even here in the Slowcountry, it feels
like a mad dash to find the right turkey and a crazy hassle to make the meal. Nail ing the Thanksgiving turkey is a crowning achievement for sure – one of my favorite photos of all time is my wife, Debbie, pos ing with the first-ever turkey we cooked in our Bluffton home.
It is one of the purest smiles I’ve ever seen from Deb, our first time hosting the annual family rotation after years of hitting the road for the holiday week.
For the past decade, we’ve been hosting my in-laws. Every year, Deb and I look at each other during post-bird cleanup and mouth the same words: Never. Again.
But this is truly the first year – outside of one or two collapse of plan issues over the past 26 years that landed us at Boston Market or Cracker Barrel – that we consid ered having someone else cook the meal for us.
I like to consider myself up to date on
most things around here, but I have to say, the shear volume of restaurants that do Thanksgiving to-go packages here is astounding. That’s likely due to the Sun City crowd that’s long since graduated past cooking on Thanksgiving, but it has been shocking to hear about folks in my genera tion and younger punting on the kitchen duty this year.
I get it though. As blessed as we are down here, we’re all rushing to keep up on our collective hamster wheels of life.
We came across 46 different Turkey Day packages that offer all the trimmings for just about every size gathering you’re hosting. But what makes each of these offerings stand out? For that, we turned to our “blue ribbon panel” to whittle down their favorites of where to turn when you have the hankering for some turkey with out putting on the apron.
Most of the order deadlines are around Nov. 18 this year, with some a bit earlier. Check each individual website for details.
Downtown Deli (1223 May River Road, 843-815-5005, downtowncateringcom
pany.com) was one of the pioneers of the concept here. Chef Ryan McCarthy pre pares a dinner for two including pre-sliced turkey breast, buttery mashed potatoes and green bean casserole and pumpkin
pie. The 6-to-8-person spread includes a not-cooked 10-to-14-pound herb rubbed turkey and the same set of fixin’s. Beyond that, there is an array of a la carte sides from pigs-in-a-blanket appetizers to cran
berry chutney, apple and country sausage stuffing and sweet potato casserole.
Signe’s Heaven Bound Bakery & Café (93 Arrow Road, Hilton Head Island, 843-785-9118) has been the go-to island to-go Thanksgiving spot for half a century. The Love Bird dinner for two is one of the best bang-for-the-buck feasts you will ever experience. Shrimp bisque, turkey gravy, stuffing, two stuffed spuds, green beans and oven-roasted carrots, balsamic beets, candied sweet potatoes, half dozen rolls, cranberry compote, four pieces of pie and cookie treats all included. Signe will give you an 18-pound turkey feast with a little bit more notice.
Southern Graces at Hewitt Oaks won a large number of raves from our panel, but their four-to-six-person feast is sold out already for this year. Check out southerngraces.com a few weeks earlier in 2023.
Please see HOT SPOTS on page 39A
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A pair of of SERG restaurant staples also won raves from our taste testers. Orchid Paulmeier’s annual eight-person feast at One Hot Mama’s (available at both the Bluffton and Hilton Head locations, one hotmamas.com) includes fried or hicko ry-smoked turkey, pan gravy, cornbread and sausage stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry mandarin relish and Martin’s potato rolls. There are packages that include glazed ham and Texas beef brisket
six or 10 people, both include a deep-fried turkey, giblet gravy, cranberry relish, a bread choice of croissant or dinner rolls, a choice of pumpkin or sweet potato pie, and a choice of three sides that include mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing sweet potato souffle.
main meal offers the standards (turkey, potatoes and gravy, green beans, stuffing, cranberry sauce, bread and pumpkin pie) and a la carte sides include oyster pot pie and candied bacon sweet potato.
Frankie Bones (Bluffton location only, 843-757-3423, frankiebones.com) includes a choice of salad, chicken noodle soup or butternut squash and apple soup and a 20-pound bird and three-pound portions of sides that will feed up to 12 people.
Eats and Sweets (7752 West Main Street, Ridgeland, 843-645-0888) won a surprising number of mentions from the 278 crowd, all telling us this meal is worth the drive. There are dinner options serving
Chef B’s Eatz (843-405-0645, chefb seatz.com) also won multiple shoutouts from our panel. The traditional turkey meal serves up to 10 people and offers an option of an oven roasted, smoked, Southern fried or honey fried turkey. Sides include stuffing, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, candied yams, honey rolls, cranberry chutney and peach cobbler.
Chef Bridgette has an array of dessert and side options available, as well as a la carte honey ham, turkey wings, oxtails, fried chicken, and sides ranging from fried oys ter stuffing to collards and gumbo.
Chef Christy Pinski and her crew at Sippin Cow (843-757-5051, sippincow. com) also earned a mass of shoutouts. Her
If you’re looking for a Cajun twist, Kenny B’s French Quarter Café (843785-3315, eatatkennybs.com) offers an eight-person package that includes a 12to 14-pound turkey cooked with a Cajun or traditional roast, and a sides package that includes mash and gravy, mac and cheese, jambalaya, green beans, cranber ry sauce, cornbread stuffing, cornbread, choice of gumbo or she crab soup, and choice of pumpkin or apple pie. This tends to sell out quick as well, so get to dialing if you want to go this route.
Others earning honorable mention from our panel include Da Shack (843-7570876), Butcher’s Market (843-815-6328, butchersmarketbluffton.com), Food Savvy (843-295-3284, foodsavvyllc. com), Squat N Gobble (843-757-4242,
squatngobble.com), The Sugaree (843290-8585), Lowcountry Fresh (843-8152780, lowcountryfresh.com), Paulie G’s Barbecue (pauliegsbbq.com), Choo Choo BBQ (843-815-7675, choochoobbq.net) and Cahill’s Market (843-757-2921, cahillsmarket.com) in Bluffton; and Lulu’s Kitchen (843-648-5858, lulukitchen-hhi. com), Whole Foods (843-842-0700), An nie O’s (843-341-2664, annieohhi.com) and Mama Joy’s Kitchen (mamajoyskitch en.com) on Hilton Head Island.
I did a story on holiday pie ordering in 2021 (see page 32 for a reprint or look it up on blufftonsun.com). Short story: Get on that today. The supplies and the win dow to order is even smaller there. And there are places open for in-person eating, too. That’s a whole other story, but for starters, try reservations at Cowboy Bra zilian Steakhouse, Frankie Bone’s, Nectar Farm Kitchen, Kyra or WiseGuys.
Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. timwood@blufftonsun.com.
Medicaid imposes strict rules on how much money and assets an applicant can have. To qualify for Medicaid, you must fall under the asset limit, which is $2,000 in most states.
Even with greater than $2,000 in assets, however, you might be able to get on Medicaid by establishing a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT). When you put your assets in an MAPT, Medicaid in certain states will not count the money in the trust toward its resource limit.
Using Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPT) to transfer assets: After you create a MAPT, you no longer own the assets within it, allowing you to qual ify for Medicaid following the five-year lookback period. People who are cur rently healthy but plan to go on Medicaid in the future might choose to use this Medicaid planning strategy.
It is essential to understand that once you make the MAPT trust, you cannot change your mind and take those assets back. Your trust must make clear that you are surrendering your rights to those assets during your lifetime for you to qualify for Medicaid because it means that you no longer own or control these assets.
In contrast to MAPTs, many types of revocable trusts, such as family trusts, are often ineffective in preparing for Med icaid. Having the power to revoke your trust would allow you to retain control over your assets, and Medicaid would count the contents of your trust as part of your resources.
Creating a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust: Three parties are involved in a MAPT – the grantor, the trustee, and the beneficiary. When you make a trust, you become the grantor, the person who places assets into the trust. The trustee manages the trust, and the beneficiary, or beneficiaries, will receive your assets.
If you want your MAPT to ensure you qualify for Medicaid, you must name someone other than yourself or your spouse as the beneficiary. Designating yourself as the beneficiary would mean giving yourself assets, which Medicaid would count toward its asset limit.
You can, however, select your children or parents as beneficiaries. Using an MAPT, you can also make sure they get those assets when you pass away.
What can you place in a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust? As part of your Medicaid planning strategy, you can place many types of assets in a MAPT, includ ing: Checking and savings accounts; stocks and bonds; mutual funds; certifi cates of deposit; and real estate.
MAPTs offer several benefits to individ uals planning to apply for Medicaid. They preserve generational wealth, safeguard ing assets for family members.
After you pass away, the state cannot take your assets from your beneficiaries to
reimburse them for your long-term care, as MAPTs avoid probate.
Since nursing home fees can be exorbi tant, MAPTs can save your family money, as they let you qualify for Medicaid once the lookback period has ended.
The drawbacks of MAPTs include the following:
• Once you establish a MAPT, you forfeit the control and use of your assets. If you need money, you will not be able to draw from the trust.
• The fees associated with preparing a MAPT can be costly, ranging from $2,000 to $12,000.
Speak with an elder law attorney in your area to learn about how using a Medicaid Compliant Trust could help you plan for your future.
Brian T. Treacy is an elder law and estate planning attorney, and owner of Elder Law & Estate Planning Center in Bluffton. hilton headelderlaw.com
Without a well-crafted, well-thought-out, up-to-date estate plan, you are likely to encounter legal problems such as: unnec essary costs and delay, family disputes (and related litigation), tax exposure that could have been avoided, loss to in-laws, loss to a child’s indiscretions, loss of government benefits, and more.
So, in the area of estate and elder plan ning, avoiding these negatives is critical.
Legal papers can be impersonal and difficult to understand. When getting this important work done, make sure you un derstand your options (wills vs. trusts, etc., powers of attorney, immediately effective or springing, beneficiary designations, titling on assets) and how the papers will work with your assets.
Using visual diagrams is helpful to com municate how the legal papers will work. Considering the uncertain political times
we are in, it is wise for people to be mindful of updates in the law and taxes (as they become apparent through various media) and to review their legal papers to avoid problems known and possible.
It is wise to consider if you want to make sure your assets will not be lost to an in-law. If your child inherits property free of trust,
they could commingle these finds with their spouse and they could be lost to frivolous spending, or lost in a divorce, with no guar antee it will stay in your bloodline. Also, it could include those assets in their estate for purposes of the estate tax.
Why allow what you have acquired to become lost to the above negatives? There is
no reason to allow what you have to be lost or carelessly squandered. A good, up-todate, flexible, properly funded estate plan will go a long way to protecting everything you have.
The basic estate plan will have powers of attorney, and we almost always use trusts to avoid many of the above negatives.
Plans and asset titling and beneficiary designations ought to be looked at closely and regularly.
Imagine your estate is like that junk drawer in the kitchen – you know, the one where you keep a lot of stuff and is pretty disorganized. Every once in a while, you rifle through the mess and find what you need.
Sometimes, it is time to get your affairs in order.
Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws (LL.M.) in estate planning, is a local asset protection, estate and elder law planning attorney. mwin nesq.com
• Fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon Dr. Robert Liebman has joined Memorial Health University Physicians Surgical Care Head & Neck Specialists.
Dr. Liebman is originally from Mar ietta, Georgia. He remained in Georgia for his undergrad uate degree at the University of Georgia and medical education at the Medical College of Georgia. It was during these formative years where he first encountered the field of otolaryngology (ENT) and was inspired to pursue a career in head and neck oncology and micro vascular reconstruction.
Dr. Liebman will join fellow Savan nah local head and neck surgeon, Dr. Matthew Ochsner, to provide com prehensive surgical care for head and
neck cancer patientss. He is specially trained in transoral robotic surgery (TORS), thyroid and parathyroid sur gery as well as salivary gland surgery.
Dr. Liebman provides care at Me morial Health University Physicians Surgical Care, 4700 Waters Ave, Building 400, in Savannah.
• Five new employees have joined J. Banks Design Group.
Venita Collier joins the company as a procurement co ordinator/ customer service specialist. She recently located from Sacramento, California. Collier previously worked in the furniture sales industry.
Kate Krentsa was hired as a procurement coordinator. She has recently relocated from Connecticut.
Krentsa’s background includes more than 20 years in print production and fulfillment services.
Leigh Gilliam joins the firm as an accounting specialist. She has recently moved to the Lowcountry from Atlan ta. Previously, Gilliam worked in the accounting field for civil engineering firms and general contractors.
Victoria Corea will serve as direc tor of brand marketing. Corea has more than 15 years of experience in the luxury interiors realm, and has developed, planned, and executed successful strategic marketing cam
paigns for some of the biggest names in the interior design industry.
John Cunningham has joined the company as warehouse associate. Cunningham moved recently to the Lowcountry. He has a degree in ani mal sciences from Louisiana Tech. His background includes agricultural and veterinary endeavors.
J. Banks Design, in business locally for more than 36 years, is a full-scale interior design firm of more than 45 employees, and an industry leader in residential and hospitality design.
You’re carving your Thanksgiving turkey and inadvertently slice your finger. Or maybe you slip off the ladder putting up deco rations in your yard.
It wasn’t so long ago that the emergency room was your only choice if your primary care physician wasn’t available. Today, you may be able to get less expensive and more convenient treatment, depending on your medical condition. Options for immediate care range from virtual visits in your home to neighborhood urgent care clinics.
Virtual visits: Online medical services, like Beaufort Memorial’s BMH Care Any where, offer “face time” with a primary care provider for minor medical issues like a cough, cold, flu, rash, minor burn, pinkeye, sinus infection, sore throat and urinary tract infection. Telehealth providers are able to prescribe appropriate medications and the service can be accessed 24/7 from any where.
to schedule an appointment online and skip the waiting room.
And finally, you should also call 911 if you:
Dr. Randall CastorWalk-in care: Sometimes called urgent care or immediate care, most walk-in clinics offer same-day treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, including lacerations, ear pain, bronchitis, asthma or COPD flare ups, uri nary tract infections and vomiting. Many of these facilities are also able to take X-rays.
To help you decide where you should seek care, here’s a rundown of the condi tions that can be treated with each level of health care service.
Emergency Room: Call 911 immediately if it’s a life-threatening emergency. For a broken bone, serious injury, severe burn, abdominal pain or a condition requiring an X-ray, CT scan or ultrasound, you’ll also need to go to the ER. If it’s a non-life-threat ening condition, many ERs now allow you
When a person is having a stroke, every second counts, so action needs to be taken immediately. The American Stroke Associ ation suggests using the F.A.S.T. warning signs to determine if emergency services should be called: Face drooping Arm weakness Slurred speech Time to call 911
In addition, chest pain is something that should not be ignored, as it can be compli cated to diagnose and needs to be evaluated promptly. Most immediate care/walk-in care clinics are equipped to perform an EKG, but it’s more likely that your attending physician may refer you to the ER for further testing.
If you have risk factors for cardiac disease or you experience pain in your jaw or arm, shortness of breath, sweating or nausea, call 911 immediately.
Can’t stop a wound from bleeding Are vomiting blood
Have rectal bleeding or bloody diarrhea with fever
Experience the sudden onset of a severe headache
Fall and hit your head
Have an allergic reaction that causes dif ficulty breathing or swelling in your tongue or lips
While the holidays can be a joyous time, they also offer the potential for accidents, in juries and illness. Whether it’s a cut, sprain, food poisoning or the flu, getting medical treatment doesn’t have to ruin your fun. With today’s expanded health care options, help is just around the corner.
Dr. Randall Castor is a board-certified Fam ily Medicine specialist at Beaufort Memorial Express Care and Occupational Health in Bluffton, Okatie and Beaufort.
Board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine specialist Andrew Castro, M.D., joined BOSS Orthopaedics (formerly known as Beaufort Orthopaedic, Sports & Spine).
Dr. Castro brings extensive experience to the practice, having treated a variety of disorders of the spine in both adults and children. Trained in the latest surgical techniques, including minimally invasive surgery and disc replacement, he most recently spent over 20 years in Denver, Colorado, where he built one of the busiest spine practices in the area and was selected as one of Denver’s “Top Docs.”
Dr. Castro is active in spinal biomechanics research and has presented at various national conferences and published journal articles and book chapters on the subject. Recipient of the John H. Moe Award from the Scoliosis Research Society, he has also designed and patented medical implants that are currently in use.
The practice of Andrew Castro, MD Mark T. Dean, MD
Daniel J. Del Gaizo, MD
Ralph F. Salzer, MD
Douglas A. Scott, MD
Scott E. Strohmeyer, MD
Emre Caglayan, PA-C
James Langford, PA-C Paul Linnert PA-C
Bachelor of Science & Master of Science in Bioengineering, Clemson University University of South Carolina School of Medicine Residency in Orthopaedic Surgery, SUNY Downstate Medical Center Fellowship Training in Complex Spinal Deformities, University of Colorado www.beaufortorthopedics.com
Beaufort, Bluffton & Hilton Head Island.
1076 Ribaut Road, Ste 101 Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 525-0045
(843) 837-4300
39 Hospital Center Commons Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 681-2363
Let’s hope the heat and humidity have taken a break for a while. May be now our hair will stay colored lon ger and stay in place for more than five minutes after we have styled it.
I hope everyone will take advan tage of the cooler weather and lack of humidity to refresh your hairstyle or, better yet, try a new color and cut.
The ever-popular bob, with its many versions, is still No. 1 in requested styles. There are so many ways to change the shape and update this cut – putting in some layers, shattering the bottom edge, stacking the back, or adding bangs, just to name a few.
The shag haircut is the most flatter ing and most popular cut this fall.
And there is a new popular haircut called the “wolf.” It’s a blast from the
’80s – a fun, edgy mix of a shag and a mullet. There are many versions of this cut that make it complementary to all face shapes and ages.
Updating your haircut can take years off the look you already have. Many variations can be worn by anyone, young and old alike. Keep in mind that it isn’t about the length of the style, but the shape. The upside-down triangle shape that I always talk about is what needs to be attained.
The shag and the wolf offer mul tiple varieties and are ageless. Both cuts achieve the triangle in the style itself. Either of these can be very youthful if cut unevenly or wispy. By this, I mean shaggy edges vs. clean cut.
When we look at new color trends, they are basically a carry-over from the summer trends, only with more caramel, espresso and warm tones
added to the already present blonde tones. The secret is to keep it lighter around the face and don’t let the gray overtake you.
Your natural color can be blend ed with a couple of warmer colors (created by your stylist) that blends the gray without seeing the new gray growth immediately. It grows out gracefully, so you don’t have to be at the salon religiously.
The right stylist can transform the mundane to trendy without a lot of change in your daily routine. Prod ucts are important in keeping your style in place and fresh. It doesn’t really mean a ton of different prod ucts, but it does takes some to fight gravity and to keep the volume in the chosen places.
Look in your mirror. Are you ready for a new do?
Joy Ross is owner of Style It Salon in Old Town Bluffton. styleitsalon.com
By Chris Dewey CONTRIBUTOR
The number one Medicare Part D drug question I get is this: Does Medicare cover Viagra or Cialis?
Sadly, most Part D drug plans do not cover the brand name ED drugs, nor do they cover the generics; however, sildenafil, which is the generic active ingredient in Viagra, is covered for certain heart condi tions.
Who knew Viagra is prescribed for folks with certain heart issues?
But fret not, seniors, because this Medi care agent understands that you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on six little blue pills.
Good Rx is my go-to for meds that aren’t covered. You can get 10 generic Viagra for only $11.17 at Publix or $6.88 at Walmart.
So don’t risk a severe headache and heart attack by buying a gas station ED pill made in China; just sign up for a free Good Rx card.
In fact, give your Part D drug card or Medicare Advantage card AND your Good Rx card to your pharmacy for all your drugs. Ask them to run your drugs with both cards and whatever price is lowest, go with that.
Tons of generic drugs are cheaper using Good Rx rather than your Medicare drug card, so let the pharmacist determine which is best for your particular meds.
Here’s some good news: Starting Jan. 1, 2023, diabetics can save hundreds on insulin. All insulin shots will cost only $35 a month, period, and insulin will remain $35 per prescription even if you fall into the coverage gap or donut hole.
You pay 25% of the retail cost of the drugs in the coverage gap – but again, insulin will not apply to the donut hole, so it’s $35 per month per insulin prescription year-round.
What a pleasant surprise when I typed Tresiba, Novolog, and Levemir into a client’s drug list and saw his costs were only $35 per script for all three diabetic drugs.
A few other tips: If you take an expensive brand-name drug that costs you more than $100 per month, check with the manufac turer to see if you might qualify for a savings plan that will lower costs. Or, you might consider a reputable Canadian pharmacy to order these expensive drugs online.
I’d be happy to direct you to a reputable Canadian pharmacy that some of my clients use to keep costs low. Or you can search online for the drug and for any programs that might help you find a lower price for that expensive drug.
Keep in mind if you make less $1,719 per month, you should definitely apply for the Extra Help for Part D drugs program. This program will significantly lower the cost of all your drugs, particularly those brand name drugs that don’t yet have a generic version.
In conclusion, get an independent Medi care broker licensed with a vast array of Medicare carriers who think outside the box when it comes to finding you the right drug plan, combined with Good Rx or a sound Canadian Pharmacy that’s been around a long time.
This season of the year is once again teaching me the importance of being atten tive. Fall, Lowcountry style, is finally here with falling leaves, morning haze, frosty grass, and crisp air.
Because they are quite different than the experiences of my youth in North Dakota, I still look forward to the changes that come down here with this season. I have, howev er, learned that I need to be alert, or I might miss it all.
Changes can be subtle, evolving rather than crashing in, often complete before I expect. Too often, I can be preoccupied with seemingly more important things and miss the wonderful moments for which I long.
The same is true of our journey of faith. It is easy to simply miss all the opportunities to experience God’s quiet, subtle presence breaking through into our everyday lives. Conflicts in our society and communities,
concern about war, jobs, homes, and family, and the stress of disease, pandemic, and otherwise, and the reality that death comes for all vie for our attention and energy.
These significant events make it even more challenging to be attentive to the little but often more frequent ways God reminds
us that God is still present, working for good in the world and in us.
Being intentionally attentive, viewing all of life through the lens of faith, offers the opportunity to be open to the many small acts of grace and mercy that come our way by the power of God working through other
people around us.
I’ll admit that working through people isn’t the most logical way or the most reli able way. But it does seem to be God’s way. If so, then all of the small acts of kindness and courage that take place, especially amid the horror of big tragedies, can be signs of a living, active God at work for good each and every day.
And when you and I also share small acts of kindness, we enter into new lives connected and grafted into the very heart of God. But one has to be attentive, watching for both the signs of God’s grace and our op portunities to act, much like being attentive to the changing season.
So, I will be especially attentive to watching for God’s presence in all the days and events ahead. I don’t want to miss the signs – and the opportunity to give God the thanks and glory.
May it be so for you, too!
Pete Berntson is the pastor of Church of the Palms United Methodist Church in Okatie
By Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR
To increase your focus and have more fun on the golf course, I recommend playing games with your playing partners. Having a little wager adds meaning to your score and can really change your mindset. Below are some games that you can play to spice up your golf experience: • Luck of the Draw. For this game you need a deck of cards. Each golfer designates a playing card from the deck of cards for each club in their bag. There are 13 cards in each suit, and you can have up to 13 clubs in your golf bag, excluding your putter. If you carry less than 14 clubs, you can desig nate a golf club for more than one card.
Before each shot, each player will draw a card from the deck of 13. They will hit the club designated by that card. Once you get on the green you can use your putter.
• Bingo, Bango, Bongo. Each hole is played for three possible points. The first
point, Bingo, goes to the golfer who reaches the green first, regardless of how many strokes it took to get there. The next point, Bango, is given to the player whose ball is closest to the hole once everyone reaches the green. The third point, Bongo, is award ed to the golfer who holes out first.
• Snakes. The snake is awarded to the first member of a group who 3-putts. She keeps the snake (some players carry a rubber snake to make it more fun). The player with the snake has to pay the other players a pre-determined amount of money for every hole she keeps the snake until another player 3-putts. This really helps you concentrate on putting.
• Scramble format is a great way for a group of beginners to go play and have fun. All members of the group tee off and go to the best ball. Each player plays from this location.
Play continues in this fashion for the remainder of the hole. A team score is recorded.
A variation of this is called a “Step Aside,” in which the player that hits the best ball steps aside, and the remaining three players play the next shot. This continues for the remainder of the hole. Thus, the golfer who hits the best shot never hits two shots in a row.
• Vegas. Two teams, two players each. You will have a team score for each hole. Here is the twist: Rather than adding the two scores, for example, 4 + 5 = 9, you pair the scores with the lowest first, so 4 + 5 is 45.
The points are tracked throughout the round and at the end the differential is paid off. Pick a bet that everyone feels comfort able with.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Profes sional and teaches at local golf courses. jean. golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean. com
Badtz has been surprising us at Palmet to Animal League since the first day he first came to our no kill adoption center in Okatie. We rescued him from another shelter where he was in danger of being euthanized.
Because of Badtz’s small size, we thought he was around 8 weeks old. Imagine our surprise when PAL’s veterinarian told us he was actually 7 months old!
Thanks to an X-ray that was lovingly donated to PAL, our vet quickly diagnosed Badtz with congenital megaesophagus (ME), which means the muscles in his esophagus are unable to appropriately move liquid and food down into his stomach.
“Badtz is always going to be a miniature cat, since he missed out on regular nutrition as a kitten due to his condition,” explained PAL president Amy Campanini. “The good news is he’s a loveable cat who’s easy to care
for.”
Badtz eats three to four times a day using his Megafeeder 3000, a special elevated dish that helps his food make it from his mouth to his stomach more easily. After every feed
ing, he needs to be held for 20 to 30 minutes, very similar to a human baby. “We use a baby carrier at PAL and walk around with Badtz while we go about our duties,” said Sally Dawkins, PAL adoption coordinator. “He can even be burped while in his carrier. He’s so sweet. He just melts your heart.”
Despite all the dedicated care Badtz receives at PAL, he is lonely and isolated at our adoption center. Due to his ME, he can’t
live in our homelike cat rooms where dry kibble is offered 24/7. He currently lives in the office, but it’s not a real home where he can do all the things cats love to do.
“We are desperate to get this loveable, small cat into a home, so he can experience the joy and love a home has to offer,” said Campanini.
Badtz is very playful and loves other animals. He is a special cat who will make a wonderful life companion.
If you know someone with a special pet in their life, give them a meaningful gift this holiday season. Have a pet portrait tile made in honor of their beloved pet.
Two pet tiles are normally $150, but right now you can get two for just $100. One tile will be displayed at PAL and the second tile can be given as a gift. Order at PalmettoAn imalLeague.org and your holiday gift will rescue more pets like Badtz.
Lindsay Perry is the marketing coordinator for Palmetto Animal League. PalmettoAnimal League.org
While holidays from Thanksgiving to Christmas time are happy, busy times for families and friends, there are pet dangers lurking during this season.
Food items dangerous to dogs include onions, raisins, grapes, alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, fruit pits and seeds, sharp bones from the turkey, yeasty dough for bread, macadamia nuts, nuts in shells (cause intestinal blockages), and xylitol.
A number of holiday plants – especially poinsettias, which are mildly toxic – are dangerous as well.
Hazardous items surround the Christ mas tree, including ribbon, wire hangers for ornaments, ornaments, candles and more. There are more emergency trips to the veterinarian this time of year than any other season except summer.
From a dog’s perspective, there is food everywhere and always people to play with from the end of November to the beginning of the New Year. It might be fun but can also be disruptive.
Dogs are by nature creatures of routine and change doesn’t sit well. Potty training for a puppy can be disrupted, and, in an older dog, excitement can lead to diges tive issues and possibly even destructive behavior.
With kids at home or having visitors, even the routine changes such as nap times and walks mess with their sense of time. If they are used to family being at work or school during the day and now everyone is home – well, there goes their accustomed routine.
The ideal situation is to keep to the dog’s regular schedule as best as possible. With the changes to sleep patterns, peo ple, exercise and food, expect that your dog may exhibit some unusual and un wanted behaviors. Usually they get back to normal once the holidays are over.
Give your dog a quiet space to retreat to so they can get away from activity. Play to tire them out before guests arrive and
make sure they have a long walk. Do not over feed them with goodies.
Turkey, although a healthy food for most dogs, can also wreck their digestion, potentially making them have malaise or even diarrhea.
If kids are running around the house, your dog might chase and nip them. Have kids play outside or put your dog outside if possible. If this can’t be done, then play time for kids might be appropriate nap time for the dog.
Keep your dog away from tables or food preparation areas since you will not likely see if they steal something. Feed them at their regular times but possibly move their feeding area to somewhere quiet.
Never let small children mess around with the food bowl! If you do have small kids roaming the house, make sure they have long toys to play with the dog to keep the dog’s mouth away from their small body parts.
Try not to have kids walk around with food since most dogs can’t resist the temptation and may steal it – and in the process may accidentally nip or graze a child’s hands.
If you are really careful, this holiday season will be enjoyed by humans as well as canines.
Abby Bird is owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@ gmail.com
Every now and then something triggers me to dust off the old soapbox, climb up and let it rip. Knowing this, you might be thinking it is time to flip the page, but before you make that decision maybe one of my all-time favorite quick jokes might just keep you engaged enough to hear me out.
So here is the joke: A seal walks into a bar and takes a seat. At that point the bartender asks, “What will it be?” The seal ponders for a moment and replies, “I’ll take anything except a Canadian Club.”
Dang, I love that joke though it does betray my age.
So, what has me all stirred up? With so much negative news these days I don’t spend too much time keeping up with the daily headlines. But while skimming the top stories the other day, I read that there will be no snow crab season this year up in the Bering Sea.
As a fan of the very popular crabbing TV show, “Deadliest Catch,” where snow crabs are probably how they make the most mon ey, the reason for the closure absolutely blew my mind. For whatever reason it has been determined that more than a billion snow crabs have disappeared from the Bering Sea in one year. A billion crabs!
Honestly, I have a hard time even fathom ing that many crabs, but more importantly, what on earth could cause such a massive collapse of a fishery?
I guess my days of going to the grocery store when they have specials on snow crabs
are over, but I would gladly forgo laying out newspaper and bowls of melted butter for an at-home crab fest if I knew this meager sac rifice would help bring back these delicious crustaceans.
Did global warming do it? Maybe it was a virus. Whatever the reason I put part of – or maybe all – the blame on the dismal job humans have had on the environment for a long, long time. Disagree if you want, but being an above-average nature observer, I see poor decisions on how to flip the script all the time.
Sadly, profit vs. loss rules over common sense, especially if decisions could better the air we breathe, the water we drink, and a multitude of other things that would directly benefit the natural world that has given us all so since the dawn of man.
Did you know that just like the disap
pearance of snow crabs right here we have experienced a yet unexplained disappear ance? Since so many of you that fish a lot are relatively new to the area, tell me when was the last time you caught a saltwater catfish?
I’ll bet I haven’t caught one in over a de cade, but while growing up here there wasn’t a fishing trip where I didn’t catch multiple catfish. They simply disappeared!
I guess not that many fishermen cared since saltwater catfish were more of an in convenience, uneatable and, should you get whacked by the spines on their pectoral and dorsal fins you were in a world of hurt.
But their disappearance should be a warn ing that something in nature is just not right.
Having served on numerous fishery advisory councils, I witness decisions that are self-serving for one part or another of the overall fishing community. Other decisions are made not for the betterment of the whole
but rather to avoid angering this group or, in some cases, to suit a political agenda.
Another example is the moratorium on catching and keeping red snapper. I get it that they were being overfished, but where they were being overfished led to the mora torium that stretched way beyond where the overfishing occurred.
I love bottom fishing offshore, but there are so many red snapper off our coast it is nearly impossible to catch fish like grouper – because the snapper are on your bait long before it can reach the bottom where other bottom fish live.
I am not advocating a free-for-all for red snapper but better data should be put forth that will thin the population a bit. I truly be lieve that so many snapper are gobbling up juvenile groupers and such. I may be wrong but that is why more unbiased research needs to be done.
Finally, changes that will directly benefit nature must start locally. I watch wetlands being filled in for developments and in areas like where I live on the river side of Alljoy Road, it amazes me that we don’t have pub lic water and sewer services yet.
Most homes in my area have several drain fields that sadly leach into the May River. But instead of making this desperately needed improvement that would benefit the whole, money is going to a bike path.
With that, I’ll step off my soapbox and pray that each and every one of you hears what I am saying. It all starts at home!
Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com
If you’re planning a holiday feast involving a turkey, be especially care ful if you plan to fry it.
The first step is to thaw and dry the turkey before cooking. Partially fro zen and/or wet turkeys can produce excessive hot oil splatter when added to the oil.
Before adding oil to your fryer, make sure the turkey will fit safely. A typical fryer can handle up to a 14-pound turkey.
Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors at a safe distance (10 feet) from buildings or anything else that can burn. Never use on a wood en deck, under a breezeway, in a carport, on a porch or in a garage.
Make sure there is at least 2 feet of space between the liquid propane tank and fryer burner.
Keeping fryers on a flat surface will help prevent accidental tipping.
Never let children or pets come near the fryer when it is in use. Even hours after use, the oil can remain dangerously hot.
Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching the pot or lid handles. Use heat-resistant gloves when frying the turkey. Longer gloves will help protect your arms from splattering oil.
Be careful with marinades. Oil and water don’t mix and water can cause oil to spill over, which can cause a fire or even an explosion hazard. That’s another reason why your turkey should be completely thawed before it goes into the fryer.
Consider a dry rub of herbs and spices instead of liquid marinade. Seasoning the turkey the day before, as it rests in the refrigerator, will help lock in the flavors.
Keep an all-purpose fire extinguish er nearby and never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
Use only enough oil to reach the maximum fill line on your fryer. Preheat the oil to 275 degrees; check the temperature with a deep-frying thermometer. Once pre-heated, turn the burner up to 350 degrees.
Using a heavy-duty meat hook or frying rack, slowly lower the turkey into the hot oil.
Raise and lower food slowly to reduce splatter and avoid burns.
Check the oil temperature fre quently. Turn the gas supply off if oil begins to smoke.
Never leave any cooking unattend ed.
Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
E-mail: itsgreektomesc@gmail.com Call: 843-842-4033
In-person: 11 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head SC
E-mail: Dr. Loretta Novince @ lorettanovincephd@gmail.com
E-mail: john@oceanside-electric.com
E-mail: htcrecruitment@htcinc.net Call: 843-369-5627
Online: htcinc.net/htc-careers
It has been a slow cool-down this year as we have transitioned into fall, with many recent days still reaching into the 80s with little rainfall. This has been a little confusing and stressful for both our lawns and plants alike.
The benefit of lesser rainfall is that we have seen a less than usual amount of fun gus this season in comparison to what we typically see this time of year. However, we are still seeing some fungus development, so it is important to keep an eye out for any discoloration and spreading patterns in the lawn.
If you haven’t already, now is a great time to apply a preventative blanket fungicide.
As growing season has almost come to an end, there are quite a few ways to keep the lawn healthy throughout its dormancy pe riod. It is time to slow down your mowing schedule. Your lawn will benefit by being
mowed less, as well as being left at a higher than usual height through the winter.
This allows the blades of grass to store more of the valuable nutrients that they need in order to protect their roots from damaging winter temperatures.
Throughout the upcoming season, be sure to rake or blow leaves off your lawn regularly. Excessive leaf coverage on the lawn can trap moisture, which can acceler
ate potential fun gal development.
You can also add additional nutrients to your soil by mulching your leaves with a mower from time to time, which will boost the overall health of your turf.
You might also want to consider putting out some potassium for a more resilient root system this winter.
Wintertime is not a time in which you will see a lot of major change in the lawn, but it is a great time for analyzing and plan ning for next growing season. There may be a few areas that didn’t quite fill in as you had hoped, and now is a good time to ana lyze why the desired result was not achieved and what can be done to best benefit the
lawn next year.
Now is a great time to pull soil samples to determine if a PH adjustment is needed, and how much of what fertilizer to apply in the spring. If you have any limbs on the prop erty that need to be cut back or possible drainage that needs to be put in place, now is the time to do so without damaging the lawn while its growing.
It’s the holiday season – a time to relax and spend time with those you love. We be lieve you should also love your lawn. These seasonal tips will help your lawn to thrive moving into the colder weather, so you can spend more time doing the things you love and less time worrying about your lawn.
Remember to turn off your irrigation sys tem and keep leaves to a minimum. Don’t worry! We will update when its time to turn the systems back on next year. Happy Thanksgiving!
By Larry Stoller CONTRIBUTOR
According to research conducted by CoreLogic, properties promoted in printed newspapers and online advertising cam paigns sold faster and for higher prices than properties that were advertised online only.
The above-mentioned analysis, which was based upon 850,000 homes that were listed for sale over two years, clearly showed that advertisements in print newspapers improved real estate sales outcomes.
In fact, print outperforms online for deliv ering targeted real estate advertising. While most perspective home buyers begin their search online, they continue to see prop erties for sale in their specific plantation or development in their local newspaper. It is this combination of digital and print real estate advertising that supercharges real estate sales.
The way people read newspapers also contributes to the effectiveness of newspa
per real estate advertising. Since newspaper readers enjoy looking at homes that are for sale, it’s very possible to reach poten tial home buyers who are not yet actively searching for a home.
Here are three more ways in which print ed newspapers help get real estate listings noticed and sold:
1. Open houses. Whether the advertise ment is for an open house on a specific day or by appointment, open house advertising in the papers get folks out to look at homes.
2. Just listed properties. When homes first go on the market, showcasing them in the newspapers is a great way to get them noticed and to get face time for the listings
agents as well.
3. “OOSF&R.” This is my term for “out-of- state friends and relatives.” It is my personal favorite because it works very well with the homes that we list and sell. Basi cally, a Bluffton homeowner will see a home advertised in the paper and tell their out-ofstate friends and relatives about it.
While daily papers are effective for sameday open houses, community papers have a longer shelf life and are great for promoting properties and the agents who list and sell those properties (and who can help you sell your home!).
The superior scope of printed newspapers and their capacity for reaching a broader range of prospects, when combined with the targeted efficiency of online marketing, is an unbeatable combination for home owners and real estate agents who want to sell homes faster and for a higher price.
Larry Stoller is a broker and Realtor with Real Estate Five of the Lowcountry. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, RealEstateFive.com
YOUR AD HERE CAN REACH 25,000 households and businesses from Moss Creek to Sun City to Callawassie Island. Promote services, sell goods, announce a yard sale, buy a house, sell a house, find a job, find employees, ask for help, offer help! Ads starting at $28 for 40 words. 843-757-9507.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
Through Jan. 1
Christmas Bazaar at SOBA Gallery, 6 Church St., Bluffton. Unique handcrafted gifts, art, decor. Gallery hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. SOBAgallery. com or 843-757-6586
Nov. 15-Dec. 31
Holiday Gallery of Gifts, Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Opening reception 5-7p.m. Nov. 16.
Original works of art, jewelry, handmade ornaments, stocking stuffers, and holiday decor. Gallery hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon day-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday.
Nov. 18
Old Town Bluffton Holiday ArtWalk, 5-7 p.m. Bluffton Arts District. Fine art by more than 200 artists, music, refreshments at shops and galleries, open late. shopoldtownbluffton.com
Nov. 18-20 “Footloose,” by Main Stage Community Theatre, at Hilton Head Prep’s Main Street
20. Tickets $22 adults, $28 seniors and military, $14 students. USCBCenterForTheArts.com
Nov. 22
Lunch With Author Karen Grassle, known as “Ma” on TV’s “Lit tle House on the Prairie,” author of “Bright Lights, Prairie Dust,” noon at Belfair Country Club in Bluffton. Tickets $50 at USCB CenterForTheArts.com. Books will be available for purchase and author signing.
Nov. 23-Dec. 11
“It’s a Nutty Christmas,” nutcracker paintings on boards, created by Beaufort Art Association artists, placed at local businesses. Rent a nutcracker to benefit BAA education fund for children. Vote for favorite Nutcracker at BSS, 913 Bay St., Beaufort. 207985-8888 or 843-521-4444
Nov. 25
“The Mall-ternative,” Black Friday shopping in Old Town Bluff ton, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Galleries and shops open late, refreshments, gifts. Restaurants open for dining. shopoldtownbluffton.com
Santa Claus at Shelter Cove Harbour, arriving at noon aboard a
Family Park. Bring blankets and chairs.
Dec. 3
Bluffton Christmas Parade, steps off at 10 a.m. at Town Hall on Bridge Street, proceeding to Calhoun, to May River Road, and to Pin Oak, ending at Oscar Frazier Park.
“A Christmas Story: The Musical,” Arts Center of Coastal Caroli na, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Directed by Mark Martino; children age 5 and older welcomed and encouraged. Tickets $53 child preview, $58 adult; $58 child, $63 adult regu lar run. artshhi.com
Dec. 8-18 (
“Educating Rita,” Lean Ensemble Theatre at Main Street Theatre, 3000 Main St., Hilton Head Island. Performances at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8-10, 15-17; and 2 p.m. Dec. 8, 18. Talkbacks Dec. 9, 11, 16, 18. Tickets $45, with student, first responder, military and group discounts offered. Rush tickets on sale 30 minutes prior to performances. Leanen
The HHSO presents an abbreviated version of its Holiday Pops program in Bluffton:
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26, 2022 at 7:00 PM
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2022 at 4:00 PM
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2022 at 7:30 PM
First Presbyterian Church | 540 William Hilton Parkway
The Hilton Head Choral Society cordially invites the community to “The Many Moods of the Season,” its annual holiday concert, at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway.
Come celebrate the season through a variety of musical perspectives, cultures and traditions per formed by the full chorus, guest soloists, and orchestra.
This year’s program will celebrate a very traditional perspective of the many moods of the season as the Choral Society presents the Christmas portion of Han del’s classic, “Messiah,” along with Robert Shaw’s “The Many Moods of Christmas.”
Classics from “Messiah” include “And the Glory of the Lord,” “For Unto Us a Child is Born,” and “Hallelujah Chorus.”
This performance will be taking the Choral Society back to its roots. More than 45 years ago, Martha Gregory organized the Hilton Head Choral Society and directed its first performance of the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” on Dec. 12, 1976.
The evening will commence with
“Many Moods of Christmas,” featuring a variety of sentimental arrangements such as “Silent Night,” “O Come All Ye Faith ful,” “What Child is This?” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” It promises to be an inspiring evening of holiday music.
It’s the perfect way to get into the holi day spirit with the Choral Society as they celebrate the joy and the nostalgia that the season brings.
Tickets are available now online at hiltonheadchoralsociety.org. For more information or for assistance placing your ticket order, call 843-341-3818 or email tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.
For the health and safety of all, ticket holders will be subject to any COVID-19 policy established by either Hilton Head Choral Society or First Presbyterian Church at the time of the concert.
Hilton Head Choral Society is open to people who love to sing and who enjoy good fellowship. The Choral Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Dues are charged to partially cover musical expenses.
The primary source of financial support comes from ticket sales, donors, program advertisers, concert sponsors, and grants.
The Hilton Head Choral Society is a member of Chorus America, a national organization promoting the art of choral singing.
By Rhonda Harris
Anyone looking for a special way to kick off the holiday season need look no farther than the Sun City Chorus & Orchestra holiday show, “Sounds of the Season.”
This year’s program, directed by Art and Lorraine Hansen, will be presented at Sun City’s Magnolia Hall, Dec. 1-3 at 7:30 p.m., and matinee, December 4 at 2:30 PM. The public is invited.
“For me the holiday season and the spirit of Christmas starts with this show,” said Paul Michaud, a ten or in the chorus. “I always hear from so many people who tell me, ‘Once we hear the Chorus, we’re ready for the festive holiday season.’”
Soprano Joanne Murray agrees. “The music is inspiring, and it really kicks off the holidays,” she said.
“The music warms my heart and
puts me in the holiday spirit,” said Carolin Collins.
If you’re ready to haul out the hol ly, put up the tree and give thanks for the meaning of the season, hearing this chorus of mixed singers and orchestra present an entertain ing mix of traditional and secular selections will cheer you on.
When asked how he makes each holiday concert fresh and new, director Art Hansen said he tries to mix up the traditional, new contem porary, sacred and non-sacred, as well as use new arrangements that become available.
“This year we are doing an ‘O Come All You Faithful’ arrangement which is really a rhythmic off-beat, sort of salsa-esque type of music,” Hansen said. “People know this tune, but they don’t know this new
HOLIDAY ART WALK
Friday, November 18 5:00pm - 7:00pm
HOLI DA Y ART W ALK
Friday, November 19
ma
5:00pm - 7:00pm
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Friday, December 2
HOLI DA Y ART W ALK
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Friday, November 19 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Friday, December 3
More than 200 artists are represented in Old Town Bluffton’s many art galleries and shops. Art enthusiasts can meet some of them during the Holiday Art Walk.
CONCERT from page 5B
beat that’s both challenging and fun to perform. It engages the singers and instrumentalists as well as the audience as it tells the Christmas story.”
Does he have a favorite from this year’s selections? Hansen admitted he’s “particularly fond of Joshua Spacht’s really fresh arrangements.”
“There’s a lot of space in the music that he orchestrates – a lot of room to make music, and it suits the sing ers well,” he said. “He really knows what he’s doing, and he brings a new voice to some of the older tunes like ‘O Holy Night.’ He almost brings a theatrical voice to it which is inter esting.”
ma ny art galleries and shops. Art enthusia sts can meet some of them during the Holid ay ArtW alk.
Holid ay
enthusia
sings the opening verse – which you don’t often get,” he said.
The chorus of about 60 singers re hearse for more than three months, and they don’t disappoint. Baritone Bruce Harris said, “I appreciate so much singing with a director and a group who aren’t satisfied with ‘good enough,’ but always strive to be bet ter, to keep improving.”
In addition to many traditional tunes, the group has fun with the familiar and not so familiar secular tunes such as “Jing, Jing A Ling,” “Pat-a-Pan Salsa” and some muchloved Broadway tunes – and maybe a few surprises along the way.
Shop & Dine earl y, then join the sChri tmas tree lighting with Santa in Martin P ark at 5:30. Afterw ards stay for the m ovie ELFat 6:30pm.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Friday, December 3
CHRI STMA S PARADE
Saturd ay, December 4
STMA S PARADE Saturd ay, December 4
Bluffton’s Tree Lighting ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m., Friday, December 2, at Martin Family Park followed by Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park’s Pavilion. The movie, “The Grinch,” will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Martin Family Park. Please bring blankets and/or chairs.
What is a holiday concert without “White Christmas”? Hansen said Irving Berlin wrote many compo sitions that appeal to the common person, and is eager to present this one. “I’ve got this ‘White Christmas’ arrangement that I like because it
Tickets are available at the Mag nolia Hall Box Office, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. or call 843-941-9729, or email suncitytix@gmail.com.
Rhonda Harris is a member of the Sun City Chorus and Orchestra.
ma ny art galleries and shops. Art enthusia sts can meet some of them during the Holid ay ArtW alk.
Shop & Dine earl y, then join the sChri tmas tree lighting with Santa in Martin P ark at 5:30. Afterw ards stay for the m ovie ELFat 6:30pm.
Shop & Dine earl y, then join the sChri tmas tree lighting with Santa in Martin P ark at 5:30. Afterw ards stay for the m ovie ELFat 6:30pm.
CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, December 3 “THE MALL-TERNATIVE”
“THE MAL L-TERN A TIVE”
“THE MAL TIVE”
Enjoy true southern hospitality as you peruse our shops and galleries for the perfect Christmas gift!
Enjoy true southern hospitality as you peruse our shops and galleries for the perfect Christmas gift!
R elax and dine in our refinestaurantsto comple te your day in OldTown.
Enjoy true southern hospitality as you peruse our shops and galleries for the perfect Christmas gift!
R elax and dine in our refinestaurantsto comple te your day in OldTown.
Relax and dine in our fine restaurants to complete your day in Old Town.
The Town of Hilton Head Island’s offi cial Holiday Kick-Off Festival will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Nov. 19 on the grounds of the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane.
This free, fun community festival is a perfect way to usher in the holidays for the whole family.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive in style on an antique fire truck to visit with children throughout the festival, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will be taking time off from guiding the sleigh to get his photo taken – with children, adults, and even pups – as he frolics through the crowd.
The afternoon is filled with sensational seasonal performances from local groups including the Creative Arts Singers, the Singing Sea Otters, Hilton Head Prep Performing Arts, and Bluffton School of Dance, all ready to get us in the holiday spirit.
All ages can stretch their creative mus cles with hands-on holiday themed arts and crafts with instructors at each craft table. There will be a wide variety of food
trucks onsite as well, including Cinnabon, Mother’s Smokin’ Good BBQ, Golden Sun, and Palmetto Kettle Corn. Also avail able are beer, wine, soda and water.
Returning again this year – bigger and better than ever – is the HollyDay Art Market featuring creations from local vendors and artisans. These one-of-a-kind gifts will be a hit for gift-giving and sup porting local makers at the same time.
Market artists and groups include fabu lous finds from Pockets Full of Sunshine, Sea Turtle Paintings, Gone Gullah, Island Bookshelf, Knott the Same, and Susan Rafetto.
You’ll also enjoy a sneak-peek perfor mance from cast members of the Arts Center’s latest holiday hit, “A Christmas Story: The Musical,” directed by Mark Martino.
Sponsored by the Town of Hilton Head Island, this event is a Lowcountry holiday tradition that truly is fun for the whole family.
Admission is free for people (and pups) of all ages. For more information, visit artshhi.com.
The member artists at La Petite Gal lerie will welcome guests for Old Town Bluffton’s Holiday Art Walk Nov. 18 with extended gallery hours from 5 to 7 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public. Other shops and galleries in Old Town will be open with fun and festivi ties.
La Petite Gallerie artists will offer their signature prosecco/cider cocktails and holiday treats. Member artists will be on hand to meet and greet friends and fans.
In addition, they will be displaying the artists’ new “Local Landmark” art. Each gallery artist has chosen a Bluffton land mark to paint or collage and will show them off together on their front fence (weather permitting). Guests will enjoy seeing all the artists’ different styles, each depicting one of our local treasures. All are available for purchase, of course!
In addition to the art by member artists will be jewelry by Patricia Mothershead, mosaic and wood fish by Mark Byers, clay creations by Nooks Pottery and Mark
Taylor, garden glass sprouts in many colors, and more.
Free gift wrapping is offered, though donations are welcome and will go direct ly to Bluffton Self Help.
La Petite Gallerie is located at 56 Cal houn St., sdjacent to The Store. For more information, visit lapetitegallerie.com.
A Christmas Story: The Musical chronicles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams. Meanwhile, an infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish.
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Tickets are now on sale for Lean En semble Theatre’s production of “Educat ing Rita,” with performances scheduled in December at Hilton Head Preparatory School’s Main Street Theatre.
Frank is a tutor of English in his 50s whose disillusioned outlook on life drives him to drink and bury himself in his books. Enter Rita, a forthright 26-yearold hairdresser who is eager to learn.
After weeks of cajoling, Rita slowly wins over the very hesitant Frank with her innate insight and refusal to accept “no” for an answer. Their relationship as teacher and student blossoms, providing new leases on life for both the student and the teacher.
Directed by Maggie Kettering (last season’s “The Thanksgiving Play”), the play features Lean Ensemble member Taylor Harvey as Rita, with Frank played by Greg Vinkler, who is making his Lean debut.
A preview performance will be held at
7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, followed by 7:30 p.m. performances Dec. 9-10 and 15-17; and 2 p.m. matinees on Dec. 8 and 18.
Talkbacks with the audience will follow the Dec. 9, 11, 16 and 18 performances. Tickets are $45 each, with student, first responder, military and group discounts offered. Rush tickets go on sale 30 minutes prior to performances. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit leanensemble.org, call 843-715-6676, or email info@leanensemble.org
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“Avant Gardener: A Creative Explo ration of Imperiled Species,” an exhibit by Lisa D. Watson, will be on display at Coastal Discover Museum’s main gallery through Feb. 12, 2023.
Watson is an artist and a gardener. Her concern with human sprawl fuses with her love for plants and animals in her art work, pushing her to create multilayered work that sparks a deeper awareness of human impact on nature.
Since 2019, with the help of biologists, rangers and regional naturalists, she has ventured into the surrounding landscapes of the Southeast to study endangered, threatened and rare plants.
In this exhibit, Watson probes how loss of habitat, sprawl, chemical spraying, invasive exotic species, and poachers are changing native habitats into unhealthy and unsustainable lands.
In the past, botanical illustrations were used by scientists and physicians for clas sification. What once was documented as discoveries, Watson feels an urgency to
pay homage to before they disappear.
Watson’s materials are also essential to her process. “I cannot fully express the story of our remaining fragile envi ronments without incorporating an art practice of reusing materials to prevent waste and unnecessary consumption,” she said. “Industrial wood scrap becomes my canvas. Shredded documents and security
envelopes transform into lush foliage and textured landscapes.”
The exhibition will be accompanied by composer Eric Chasalow’s “What Shade of Green is Our Horizon?” The 42-minute aural land and seascape was composed for Avant Gardener after Lisa and Eric met at an artist’s residency at The Studios of Key West in 2022.
Watson also will teach an “Art-full Seeding Workshop” from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1. She will explain the planning, execution, and production of her limit ed-edition seed packets. Participants will then learn how to do the seeding and packaging process themselves and design and produce their own artful packet.
Cost is $30 and reservations are re quired.
Watson also will give a lecture, “The Seven Plant Blunders of Our Coast: Basics on Invasive Plant Species and Alternative Native Solutions,” at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 25. Reservations required by calling 843-6896767.
Gallery hours are Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Coastal Discovery Museum is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive on Hilton Head Island. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call 843689-6767or visit coastaldiscovery.org.
From the songwriting team behind the smash-hit, Tony Award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen” and the Academy Award-winning film “La La Land,” the holiday favorite “A Christmas Story: The Musical” brings the classic 1983 movie to hilarious life onstage.
The Arts Center’s holiday production will run Dec. 6-31, directed by New York City’s Mark Martino (“Newsies,” “White Christ mas,” “Elf,” “An American in Paris,” “Kiss Me Kate” and “Forever Plaid”).
Following a successful Broadway run garnering three 2013 Tony Award nomina tions including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score, along with six Drama Desk nominations, and two Out er Critics Circle nominations, “A Christmas Story: The Musical” is now ready to win over you and your family.
“A Christmas Story: The Musical” chron icles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way toward the holiday
gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle (“You’ll shoot your eye out kid!”). An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flag pole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish.
Hailed by The Associated Press as “a joyous Christmas miracle,” The New York Times writes, “You’d have to have a Grinchsized heart not to feel a smile spreading across your face.”
For tickets, call the Arts Center box office at 843-842- 2787 or visit artshhi.com.
Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without kooky Nutcrackers, and the city of Beaufort might not be the same after some 50 unique Nutcrackers arrive in businesses on Nov. 23.
Artist members of the Beaufort Art As sociation (BAA) have been creating 6-foot and 4-foot paintings on wood of unusual Nutcracker figures. More than 50 of the whimsical characters will be standing guard outside stores, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses through Dec. 11 for the inaugu ral “It’s a Nutty Christmas” event.
The fanciful event, appropriately called It’s a Nutty Christmas, was dreamed up and organized by Danie Connolly, a recent transplant from Maine to Beaufort, by way of Bluffton. Connolly previously owned a quirky and eccentric store called Absolutely Perfect in the Calhoun Street Promenade.
Business owners may “rent” the Nutcrack ers for $125 each and have them on display during the Nutty season. Individuals are invited to sponsor the rent for a nonprofit organization to put on display.
The 6-foot-tall nutty Nutcrackers may be purchased for $500 each, while the 4-foot paintings are $400.
The public is invited to vote for their favorite Nutcracker and to take photos with the Nutcrackers. Those who take a photo of themselves with all the Nutcrackers
will compete for a prize. The person who surrounds their favorite Nutcracker with the most people can win a prize as well.
Local dentists have judged the Nutcrack ers for their smiles – the best, the most terrifying, the craziest and the goofiest. BAA will have posters of the winning Nutcracker
smiles available for sale.
All proceeds from rent and purchases will go the BAA educational art fund for children.
BAA is located at 913 Bay St. For more information, call the organization at 843-514444 or Connolly at 207-985-8888
by the
Sunday, December 4, 2022
Available Tour Times: 12-2p.m. or 2-4p.m.
Available Tour Times: 12-2p.m. or 2-4p.m.
Sunday, December 4, 2022
Available Tour Times: 12-2p.m. or 2-4p.m.
Tickets cost $35 each or $60 for two
Available Tour Times: 12-2p.m. or 2-4p.m.
Tickets cost $35 each or $60 for two
Tickets cost $35 each or $60 for two
Ticket price includes tour admission, refreshments, door prizes and opportunities to participate in raffles
Ticket price includes tour admission, refreshments, door prizes and opportunities to participate in raffles
Tickets cost $35 each or $60 for two
Ticket price includes tour admission, refreshments, door prizes opportunities to participate in raffles
Ticket price includes tour admission, refreshments, door prizes and opportunities to participate in raffles
Ticket holders will receive a map upon check in at the Hampton Hall Golf Clubhouse and travel in their own golf carts to each of the featured homes throughout the community. If you don’t have access to a golf cart, transportation will be provided.
Ticket holders will receive a map upon check in at the Hampton Hall Golf Clubhouse and travel in their own golf carts to each of the featured homes throughout the community. If you don’t have access to a golf cart, transportation will be provided.
Ticket holders will receive a map upon check in at the Hampton Hall and travel in their own golf carts to each of the featured homes throughout community. If you don’t have access to a golf cart, transportation
Register and purchase tickets at xxxx eventbrite.com, or email Sandy Rak at hhcharitablefund@gmail.com
Ticket holders will receive a map upon check in at the Hampton Hall Golf Clubhouse and travel in their own golf carts to each of the featured homes throughout the community. If you don’t have access to a golf cart, transportation will be provided.
Register and purchase tickets at HHCFHometour.eventbrite.com
Register and purchase tickets at xxxx eventbrite.com, or email Sandy Rak at hhcharitablefund@gmail.com
or email Sandy Rak at hhcharitablefund@gmail.com
All proceeds from this event will benefit the Hampton Hall Charitable Fund (HHCF) grants program HHCF is a fund of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, a 501(c)(3) organization
Register and purchase tickets at xxxx eventbrite.com, or email Sandy Rak at hhcharitablefund@gmail.com
All proceeds from this event will benefit the Hampton Hall Charitable Fund (HHCF) HHCF is a fund of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, a 501(c)(3)
Tickets are non-refundable We look to seeing you and thank you for your support !
All proceeds from this event will benefit the Hampton Hall Charitable Fund (HHCF) grants program HHCF is a fund of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, a 501(c)(3) organization
Tickets are non-refundable
All proceeds from this event will benefit the Hampton Hall Charitable Fund (HHCF) grants program HHCF is a fund of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, a 501(c)(3) organization
We look to seeing you and thank you for your support
Tickets are non-refundable
We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support!
Tickets are non-refundable
We look to seeing you and thank you for your support !
“A friend told about this “gathering” at a local tackle shop after hours, but couldn’t exactly explain to me what is was. He just said, “if you want to have a beer and talk about fishing you should come”. Well I do, and I do, so I went. “
“I had never been to Southern Drawl before and wasn’t sure about a party in a bait shop. As I walked up there were two guys out front smoking cigars, which added to the mystique. But as soon as you walk in you quickly realize this is not a typical tackle shop.”
“With a smile and a handshake Paul, the guy behind the bar earlier, introduced himself. He told me that this their open house they do once a month. He encouraged me to listen in on conversations and to ask questions. I told him I was new to the area but liked to fish and he enthusiastically said “perfect!” He went on to say that half of these guys there were also transplants and the others were a mix of long time locals, staff and even a few charter captains. Paul said “We’re all here to BS about what’s happening on and off the water.” It was really great to hear so many conversations about the local fishing scene. I had heard that the fishing was hard around here but after hearing these guys I have hope.
DETAILS: The Lowcountry Social is a free event open to anyone 21+ who likes to fish. This event is help on the first Tuesday of each month from 7pm to 9pm at Southern Drawl Outfitters in the Moss Creek shopping center.
Located in the Moss Creek shopping center on Rt. 278 before the HHI Bridge
PHOTOS BY CHANDLER HUMMELL
