July 2023 Hilton Head Island Magazine

Hilton Head Island

MAGAZINE

July 2023 / $4.95

PRESIDENT KEITH BACH keith@anthemmediagroup.com

PUBLISHERS

SASHA SWEENEY sasha@anthemmediagroup.com

MEREDITH DIMUZIO meredith@anthemmediagroup.com

EDITOR

ANTHONY GARZILLI anthony@anthemmediagroup.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR REBECCA CASHWELL

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ALLYSON VENRICK

WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS

Amy Coyne Bredeson, Amy Bartlett, Lawrence Conneff, Marcia Cornell, Heather Edge, Clay Bonnyman Evans, Jessica Farthing, Nina Greenplate, NancyLee Honey, Justin Jarrett, Barry Kaufman, Mark E. Lett, Vickie McIntyre, Edward Thomas

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rob Kaufman, Ruthe Ritterbeck

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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COVER PHOTOS

Hilton Head Island Magazine and Bluffton and the Lowcountry Magazine: Photos by Rob Kaufman

2 Finch St. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

TOGETHER WE CAN REVERSE CLIMATE CHANGE.

“EPA data has found that gas-powered lawn mowers make up five percent of total air pollution in the United States. Another study demonstrated that a consumer grade leaf blower releases more hydrocarbons than a pick up truck or a sedan.”

-psci.princeton.edu

EE ZERO CAN HELP WITH ZERO EMISSION SOLUTIONS. WE ARE PART OF THE SOLUTION.

But are we doing enough? Does your POA/HOA have a sustainability initiative? Will you join us?

Hilton Head Island and Bluffton are nationally recognized and treasured by residents for their pristine natural ecosystems and commitment to sustainability. We need to do everything we can to protect our environment for our children and grandchildren. Together, we can position the Lowcountry as a leader in sustainability. Everyone is concerned about climate these days. Here, we feel the effects of climate change more than most. That is why we need to invest in cleaning up the skies and keeping them clean — that means removing CO2 from the atmosphere and shifting to clean energy and sustainable solutions.

We can only get to sustainability by acting now. EE Zero can help with zero emission solutions. We are part of the solution — to date we have invested in the removal of 720 kg of CO2 via Climeworks’ direct air capturing process. From providing clean-energy professional equipment to investing in decarbonization, EE Zero is fully committed to being part of the solution.

EE Zero is a proud Member of the Lowcountry Environmental Action

To learn more, contact us to schedule an on-site meeting.

< NANCYLEE HONEY I WRITER

Coastal Style, page 60

NancyLee Honey, a Richmond Va., native, has been an investment advisor, journalist and travel advisor on Hilton Head Island for 40 years. She has penned articles for a variety of local publications. Writing, playing piano, pickleball, golfing and dancing delight her often.

< HEATHER EDGE I WRITER

Calendar, page 105

Heather Edge has several years of experience working as a contributor and sales representative in the publication and beauty industry. She is also a Reiki Practitioner and owns Shine Your Light Makeup Artistry.

< BARRY KAUFMAN I WRITER

Living History, page 70

Barry Kaufman has been living in and writing about the Lowcountry for 20 years. The host of B-Town Trivia, he lives in Bluffton with his wife, three children and entirely too many pets.

< RUTHE RITTERBECK I PHOTOGRAPHER

Meet Matty, page 52

Ruthe Ritterbeck loves to travel. She’s a habitual cookie baker. Ritterbeck’s dog, Jessie, rules her life. A favorite quote is from John Lennon: “Count your age by friends, not years.”

loving the lowcountry

There’s not much like a summer in the Lowcountry. We love the weather and the chance to enjoy our beautiful beaches and the majesty of our outdoors.

We are always thrilled to call the Lowcountry home.

L.J. Bush’s family lineage can be traced back almost 300 years. His commitment to his community spurred him to launch a program to help youth strive to succeed. Read about The COIN Project, which is empowering youngsters.

Giving back to the community is always on the minds of Monarch Roofing. Learn about its Roof for Troops initiative that helps veterans.

The Lowcountry is teeming with history, and Steve Quick is always willing to be immersed in bringing the past to life. Learn about his longtime love of dressing the part of living history.

The summer is a great time to relax and enjoy a cool beverage. Veteran bartender Matty Bussmann has the perfect cocktail recipes that will keep your glass full and put a smile on your face.

Golf is a sport that inspires its competitors to dream big. The local chapter of the LPGA*USGA is helping girls learn the game and engaging them with positive female role models and mentors. Read about the thriving program.

It wouldn’t be Independence Day without the annual Salute from the Shore. The flyovers stretch across the South Carolina coast, including Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. The tribute to the U.S. armed forces is truly a July 4 sight to behold.

Looking for a weekend getaway? Blue Ridge in the north Georgia mountains is an idyllic escape, featuring produce from a family-owned farm, outdoor adventures and fresh mountain air.

Our issue also includes great summer reads, fishing tips, a calendar of fantastic events and tasty meal recipes.

We hope you are enjoying your summer.

As always, thanks for reading.

KEITH BACH, PRESIDENT keith@anthemmediagroup.com

save it for later

I wanted to experience it all at once.

There was a thrilling game on TV that needed my attention, but the finale of a streaming series was also waiting — impatiently — to be watched.

On the satellite radio discussion of national events piqued my interest, as did the several newspaper and magazine stories that I wanted to read: media profiles, sports analysis, an illuminating obituary.

My phone — not wanting to feel left out —sent an alert about an event that must not be missed.

The game flashed on the television screen, bodies darting back and forth from one end to the other.

My eye caught a glimpse of the furious action as my ear strained to listen to an intriguing interview while I attempted to read about failing television ratings and the sinister actions of a recently deceased notorious killer.

A quick peek at the TV. A glance down at the phone. A volume adjustment to better hear the news.

Sentences read and then read again.

I checked on the score of that other game. Everything, everywhere, unrelenting. It was too much. I’d had enough.

The desire to consume all things without missing out on something can be overwhelming and exhausting, and I realized it’s a futile fight.

I can’t enjoy all things all at once and, more importantly, the impact doesn’t stick when there are too many distractions.

There are no indelible memories, impactful experiences or thoughtful musings upon reflection. Instead there’s just a deluge of words and images and indecipherable sounds and unremarkable moments that pass by to be forgotten within minutes.

What was the crucial scene on the show?

What was the significance of what I just read?

Who hit a home run in Anaheim?

It’s a constant battle — (I may or may not have thought to write this column as a soccer match was on TV and a baseball game played on the radio) — but one I force myself to be aware of.

Reminder to self: The show can be watched at another time. The articles can be read over a matter of days (not in the immediate minutes), and I can read about the game later.

The things I enjoy will continue on; they will not pause to allow me to catch up. And that’s OK. Not everything must be consumed instantly.

I silenced the radio, shut off the TV and put down my phone. Those events would have to be experienced later — on my own time.

ANTHONY GARZILLI, EDITOR anthony@anthemmediagroup.com

GRAND OPENING

RIBBON CUTTING

TURTLE TRACKERS

If you have photos of an event to submit for consideration, please email them to anthony@anthemmediagroup.com

Megs Mobile Hydration in Bluffton held a ribbon cutting with the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

Turtle Trackers of Hilton Head Island volunteers educated the public about the Sea Turtles nesting on Hilton Head Island.

The Bank held its grand opening on Pope Avenue. The 72,000-square-foot complex was welcomed by many. The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce snapped this ribbon-cutting photo.

CELEBRATIONS

Coastal Carolina Hospital completed its 3,000th da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery since the program was implemented in 2015. The da Vinci robot is generally used for urology, gynecology and general surgery.

JUNETEENTH MEMORIAL DAY

Hilton Head Hospital was named by Healthgrades as one of America’s 100 Best for Orthopedic Surgery. Alicia Dreyer, Senior Director of Quality Solutions, Healthgrades, presents the award to Dr. Kirk Johnson and Joel Taylor.

If you have photos of an event to submit for consideration, please email them to anthony@anthemmediagroup.com

Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka and Town Council members presented the Juneteenth Proclamation to the Bluffton MLK Observance Committee, accepted by Selena Chisolm.

The Hilton Head Council of the Navy League held a Memorial Day rememberance at Veterans Memorial Park at Shelter Cove.

34 I ASS ISTING VETERANS

Monarch Roofing gives back to the community with Roof for Troops program that helps homeowners.

38 I B ROADENING HORIZONS

Through The COIN Project, L.J. Bush is mentoring area youngsters and empowering them to strive to succeed.

66 I ECO-AWARENESS

Father-and-son team is pursuing a highminded environmental vision for the Lowcountry.

70 I B RINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

From the Revolutionary War through the First World War, Steve Quick has put himself in the shoes of history’s greats.

88 I EM POWERED THROUGH GOLF

LPGA*USGA Girls Golf invites girls to learn the game, instills them with confidence and inspires them to dream big.

104 I S ALUTE FROM THE SHORE

An aerial Independence Day tradition continues this month as the annual flyover takes to the skies.

Independence Day fashion.

18 I T HE Q & A

TV personality Bob Stevens.

20 I B EACH PROTECTORS

Shore Beach Service keeps the shore safe.

26 I A ROUND TOWN

Highlighting the top news items from throughout the Lowcountry.

32 I GI VING SPOTLIGHT

Pockets Full of Sunshine enhances lives of exceptional adults.

42 I F ANTASTIC FASHION

Top styles for the season.

50 I D ETAILS ON DINING

Roundup of area restaurant news.

52 I M EET MATTY

Bartender Bussmann welcomes all.

54 I S UMMER SIPS

Cool off with these savory cocktails.

56 I H EARTY RECIPES

Enjoy 4th of July with these tasty treats.

60 I C OASTAL LIVING

Style your home for a touch of tranquility.

76 I R ESOURCE FOR RESEARCH

Heritage Library highlights history.

80 I H EALTHY PERSPECTIVE

Student nurses learn about end-of-life care.

82 I R EEL IN THE BIG PRIZE

Catch these summertime fish.

84 I R OAMING THE STATE

Armadillos are the little armored ones.

86 I P ICKLEBALL POETRY

Local writer brings the sport to the page.

92 I B LUE RIDGE GETAWAY

Escape to the north Georgia mountains.

98 I L ITERARY ARTISTRY

Experience the island through a Poetry Trail.

100 I A RT WINNERS

Prizes announced for Biennale exhibition.

Keeping the beach safe.

bob stevens DELIVERING

THE HEADLINES

You probably know him as the astute and amiable face of WHHI-TV’s local news coverage, or perhaps as the dulcet voice that delivers your headlines and traffic report on drive-time radio each morning, but the journey to this point in Bob Stevens’ career has been quite a ride. We talked with Stevens about his time as an ESPN SportsCenter anchor and what he loves about the Lowcountry.

Q. You were an anchor on SportsCenter before you came to Hilton Head. How did that come about?

A. I had interviewed at ESPN a couple of other times when they were looking for people when I lived in Cleveland. And then the third time they were actually launching ESPN News in 1996, they just offered me the job. About six months later I just started showing up on the SportsCenter schedule, so I guess I got a promotion and didn’t know it. I did a little more than six months of ESPN News, the job I was hired for, and then the other 5 ½ years of SportsCenter.

Q. What are some of your highlights from your time there?

A. The day baseball retired Jackie Robinson’s No. 42 (in 1997) Keith Olbermann went down to Shea Stadium, and somebody else needed to co-anchor SportsCenter that night, and that somebody else happened to be me. Rich Eisen tells the story about how he still doesn’t understand why it was me and not somebody else that has, you know, gone on and done stuff. But (Dan) Patrick and I did the show that night, and it was a lot of fun.

Q. How did you find your way from Bristol to Hilton Head?

A. We had to decide what to do when they didn’t renew my contract the third time. When we lived in Cleveland, our weatherman at the station owned a house down here and kind of time-shared it out to a bunch of his friends, and we were one of those. My wife and I agreed this would be a terrific place to retire. One of the neatest things about the Lowcountry in general is that most everybody made a conscious choice to come here, and so they want to make it the paradise they wanted to move to.

Q. You said you moved here to retire, but that obviously hasn’t happened yet.

A. Soon after I got here I started doing radio for PGA Tour and did that for six more years from 2007, and that was 20 weeks a year of traveling around with the tour, which was hugely fun. And then for about 10 years I’ve been doing work with WHHI, and I’ve also been doing morning radio, news and traffic, for about 10 years.

SECURING THE SHORE

Written by Mark E. Lett I Photography by Rob Kaufman

SHORE BEACH SERVICE KEEPS BEACHGOERS SAFE AND COMFORTABLE

The widow was well into her 80s, and the temperature had climbed into the 90s when she set out for a walk on Coligny Beach.

A bit later, her daughter and son-in-law grew concerned when she had not returned.

Scanning the shore, they set out to find mom — only to spot her arm-in-arm with a strapping, smiling lifeguard.

Sure enough, she had lost her bearings and was being escorted in search of the family condo along South Forest Beach.

The happy, anxiety-relieving reunion was all

in a day’s work for Shore Beach Service, a hardy crew charged with the safety and comfort of Hilton Head beachgoers.

“We always find them — whether it’s adults or children,” said Mike Wagner, owner, president and beach patrol director of Shore Beach Service.

Established in 1974, the service is under contract with the Town of Hilton Head for responsibilities ranging from renting umbrellas and beach chairs to gathering trash left on more than 13 miles of beaches — to lifesaving.

Employees also assist local authorities enforcing beach codes and rules, including those covering pets on the beach at prohibited times.

Bob Bromage, Hilton Head’s director of public safety, said Shore Beach Service cooperates daily with the town’s beach operations, code enforcement and fire and safety units.

“They are, essentially, force multipliers,” Bromage said. “Their contribution is essential to safety on those beaches.”

Add to that: watchdogging the shoreline environment by spotting the movement of endangered sea turtles (nesting season is May through October), instructing visitors against collecting sand dollars, stocking beach containers with doggy bags for pet waste and removing mammals stranded in the sand.

But Beach Service is best known for its corps of lifeguards, operating on land, water and on foot, in trucks, beach vehicles and on high chairs rising above the shore.

During summer months, when locals and visitors descend on Hilton Head’s popular beaches, Beach Service employment “swells” to more than 100, Wagner said.

Most days, at least “65 or 70” lifeguards are on the beaches, he added.

Staffers are recruited from across the county and around the world, with lifeguard certification a priority. Beach Service workers are put through physical training and classroom education to boost skills in shore and water safety, and local rules and regulations.

Recruiting talent is a top priority, Wagner said. Conventional advertising for candidates was sometimes ineffective, but “word of mouth” has proven successful in producing applicants, he said. Time and again summer staffers have referred qualified, job-seeking friends to Beach Service.

Securing lifeguards is essential to the success of Beach Service. It’s no small task.

The American Lifeguard Association said a nationwide shortage of trained and certified lifeguards is disrupting operations at pools, lakes and beaches. The shortage is yet another result of the COVID-19 pandemic that slowed lifeguard recruiting, training and certification.

Wagner said Beach Service has nurtured an effective pipeline for talent through the nation’s colleges and universities — particularly school teams for swimming, water polo, track and tennis. The combination of athleticism and team experience is invaluable, he said.

Above: Claire Polak rents Beach Service’s beach chairs and umbrellas.

Opposite page: Mike Wagner, owner, president and beach patrol director of Shore Beach Service.

Supervisor Parker Whitley assesses a stingray sting, which guard Tanner Schroer treats.

This year employees hail from around the globe, Wagner said, including South Africa, the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Sweden, Brazil, Canada and Hungary.

Many are student-athletes who sought jobs on Hilton Head after hearing from friends who worked here, he said.

Several schools have become regular sources of employees: Lindenwood University of Missouri; Delta State University of Mississippi and Emmanuel College of Georgia.

Training in the ocean, in swimming pools, in the sand and in the office is designed to produce skilled employees — and fierce competitors. Top lifeguards for Beach Service compete in contests sponsored by the South Atlantic Lifesaving Association. Recent competitions have been held in Jacksonville, Fla., and Virginia Beach.

Hilton Head beachgoers this summer are likely to see Beach Service employees training for team and individual events. It’s a rigorous challenge for men and women that includes a run-swim, 100-meter dash, 2-kilometer run and a beach flags challenge to test agility, speed and determination – “kind of a quick twitch” assessment, said Wagner.

Wagner is the second generation to manage Beach

Service, succeeding his father, Ralph, a former Fortune 100 company executive who left behind Chicago winters and relocated to Hilton Head. The elder Wagner bought Beach Service in 1992 after scouring the island for a business to own and operate.

During college days as a business student at the University of Illinois, Mike Wagner worked summers with his father at Beach Service — “always with the idea I would be coming down here.”

After graduating in 1995 with a degree in marketing and business administration, he worked in private business a few years before joining his father full-time in 1998.

Summer is the busy season, to be sure, with incident reports mounting into the hundreds and thousands. One of the most frequent matters handled by Service workers, according to Wagner, is jellyfish stings (more than 21,000 last year).

Lifeguards are trained to flush the sting with ocean water and a mixture of water and vinegar.

A note to beachgoers: Jellyfish season is expected to continue through the summer and into early autumn

HISTORIC MITCHELVILLE FREEDOM PARK RECEIVES $2.5 MILLION INVESTMENT

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park received a $2.5 million investment from the Mellon Foundation, the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities. This investment, spread over a two-year period, will go toward the Freedom Plaza, The Classroom-Lab building,

the Interpretative Trail, and infrastructure for the future Interpretive Center. Freedom Plaza will serve as a “profound” connection to West Africa, the birthplace of many Mitchelville residents, a news release said. For more information, visit exploremitchelville.org/

$1 MILLION DONATED TO HISTORIC MITCHELVILLE FREEDOM PARK

Moon King Entertainment Group, The Bank, and the Island Legacy Fund announced a $1 million gift committed to Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. The Bank, Moon King Entertainment Group and the Watterson Family Foundation have created the Island Legacy Fund at the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry to focus on Hilton Head Island housing, childcare and preservation initiatives.

Historic Mitchelville is “uniquely positioned to broaden the awareness and recognition of its rich story,” a news release said. Current funding is supporting the creation of Ghosted Structures representing the historic homes, a Church reflection area that also highlights a 4,000-year-old indigenous imprint and a Classroom- Archaeological Lab building that will support education programs and excavations on site for the foreseeable future.

“This gift from The Bank and the Island Legacy Fund is transformative to the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park project. The funds will enable us to move ever closer to building the full park site and sharing the unique story of Mitchelville with people in and outside of the Lowcountry,” said Ahmad Ward, executive director of the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.

SUMMER READING PROGRAM PROMOTES LITERACY

The Beaufort County Library System and the Beaufort County School District have collaborated

for a summer reading program: “All Together Now.” This year’s program accommodates summer schedules with minimal deadlines and flexible timeframes to complete goals. Printed game boards serve as the centerpiece of the program and, along with something to read, are the only necessary components of participation. Local businesses and organizations have provided prizes, donations, and incentives. The program ends July 31. The program is designed for all ages. Contact Theresa Furbish at theresa.furbish@ bcgov.net or 843-255-6442.

HHI FIRE RESCUE RECEIVES AGENCY TRAINING PROGRAM CERTIFICATION

Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue’s 911 Communications Center received an Agency Training Program Certification, a Project 33 Initiative, from the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International. Public safety agencies use the APCO International Agency Training Program Certification as a formal mechanism to ensure their training programs meet APCO American National Standards. Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue will be recognized at APCO’s 89th Annual Conference & Expo, Aug. 6-9 in Nashville, Tenn.

HILTON HEAD ADOPTS NEW STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN

Hilton Head Island Town Council adopted a new Strategic Action Plan, which the Town said is an ambitious, community-focused blueprint celebrating the island’s history, culture, environment, and socialeconomic diversity while addressing its most pressing needs and

services. The plan contains 54 strategies, including: establishing a growth management strategy to proactively protect the island’s rich natural resource; implementing an initiative to outline the Town’s commitment to preserve and expand workforce housing options; and developing the William Hilton Parkway Gateway Corridor Plan. The complete Strategic Action Plan is available at hiltonheadislandsc. gov/strategicplan/

HILTON HEAD ISLAND ADOPTS 2024 BUDGET

Hilton Head Island Town Council voted 5-1 to approve the fiscal year 2024 consolidated budget on second and final reading. There’s no funding increase in property taxes. The $129.95 million budget includes funds for sewer connection and home safety and repair programs and the addition of 14 full-time positions. For more information, visit hiltonheadislandsc.gov/budget/ FY2024/.

ROTARY CLUB OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND RECOGNIZES STUDENTS

The Rotary Club of Hilton Head Island recognized students for excellence, leadership and service. Students were, from Heritage Academy, Jettie Sheane Nelson and Kellen Kubec; Elliot Kennedy (Hilton Head Island Middle School); Benjamin Lewis (Hilton Head Island High School); Eden Myers and Bridget Wilkie of Hilton Head Preparatory School; and Olivia Halloran (St. Francis Catholic School).

Chelsee Kuklinski and Whitney McGuire, of HHIH, received scholarships for four years of academic pursuits. Kuklinski will

attend West Virginia University. McGuire will attend the University of South Carolina.

TCL AND NORTH GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCE TRANSFER AGREEMENT

Technical College of the Lowcountry and North Greenville University signed an articulation agreement that enables TCL’s early care and education students interested in furthering their education to seamlessly transfer to NGU.

The agreement enables TCL students who have completed the college’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Care and Education degree program to transfer into NGU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Educational Studies program.

TCL students who transfer to NGU will be provided with advising and academic support for a successful transition and are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition, officials said.

NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PLANNED IN BLUFFTON

The Beaufort County school board authorized superintendent Frank Rodriguez to negotiate a contract with Quackenbush Architects and Planners to design a new elementary school serving grades preK-5, which is expected to house 800 students. The school is aimed at alleviating overcrowding in the community, a news release said.

The design work for the project will be funded by 8% capital bond funding. Funding is anticipated to come from a 2023 bond referendum.

The new PreK-5 elementary school, projected to be completed and

occupied prior to the start of the 2025-26 school year, will be located on the May River High School property owned by the district at 601 New Riverside Drive. The high school currently occupies approximately 80 acres of the 225-acre campus.

MAY RIVER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NAMED SC TEACHING FELLOW

Riley Brodie, a senior at May River High School, has been awarded the prestigious Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement (CERRA) South Carolina Teaching Fellowship. Brodie is a member of the MRHS Color

MAY RIVER HIGH ATHLETE WINS STATE CROWN

May River High’s McKenna Swinton won the Class AAAA state shot put crown (39-5) at the state track and field championships. Swinton bested Ayanna Hunt of Westside (39-4). She was also fourth in the discus (115-5). Overall, May River’s girls finished fourth. Swinton has signed to compete at Claflin University. Macey Dowe of May River placed third in javelin (1156) and discus (118-8). Anya Arroyo was third in the 3,200 (11:12.04). Darrion Perry was second in the boys 400 hurdles (56.55).

BLUFFTON SITES ADDED TO RECONSTRUCTION ERA NATIONAL HISTORIC NETWORK

The National Park Service added the Garvin-Garvey House and Historic Campbell Chapel AME to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network. The national network connects sites across the country which provide education, interpretation and research related to the period of Reconstruction.

HILTON HEAD SENIOR AWARDED AR T SCHOLARSHIP

Sophia Paris, a senior at Hilton Head Preparatory School, was awarded a $2,000 art scholarship from Art League of Hilton Head. She will apply the scholarship to tuition at Tufts University this fall, where she plans to double major in engineering psychology and studio arts with a concentration in graphic design. Paris is an honor roll student and president of Hilton Head Prep’s Global Citizenship Club.

The Garvin-Garvey House was constructed around 1870 by Cyrus Garvin (Garvey) in Bluffton. It is believed to be the oldest extant dwelling built by a freedman in Bluffton and remained in the possession of the Garvin family until the 1960s. In 2004, the Town of Bluffton entered a partnership with Beaufort County to maintain Oyster Factory Park, which includes the Garvin-Garvey House.

Historic Campbell Chapel AME was originally built by enslaved people in Bluffton. In 1874, the chapel became part of the AME Church and served the community throughout the Reconstruction Era as a social, religious, and academic center of the community.

COOKING FIRES RESULT IN DESTROYED HOMES

Two homes in the Bluffton area were destroyed by fires that were a result of cooking incident, according to Bluffton Township Fire District.

The fires were at the Woodbridge subdivision of Bluffton and on Cherry Point Road near Okatie Elementary School. No injuries were reported in the Woodbridge fire. Neighbors alerted firefighters that they heard the occupant of the home on Cherry Point Road calling for help. Firefighters found the man and transported him to Memorial Health in Savannah with serious injuries, a news release said.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.

keep up with goings on around town. visit us @ anthemmediagroup.com

HHIH RELAY TEAM WINS BOYS STATE TITLE

Hilton Head High’s boys 4X400-meter relay team of Dacien Cohen, Jourdin Nelson-Davis, Zach Sellers and Jackson Rohr (3:22.04) took home the SCHSL Class AAAA state title at the state track and field championships.

Janile Roberson of HHIHS took second in the boys 200 dash (21.63) and Cynthia Gudaitis was third in the girls 1,600 (5:08.39).

Overall, Hilton Head High’s boys placed seventh.

LOCAL FEMALE WRESTLERS EXCEL AT REGIONAL COMPETITION

Five local girls finished in the top 5 at the Southeast Regionals Tournament hosted by USA Wrestling in Cherokee, N.C. Vivian Patricia Urriola, a rising freshman at May River High School, competed in the 16U, 117-pound class and took first in freestyle wrestling and third in Greco wrestling. Also competing for Bluffton-based Reverence Wrestling Club in freestyle wrestling were: Sophia Perez, McCracken Middle School (14U, 110 pounds) placed first; Aleysha Mendez, Red Cedar Elementary (8U, 52 pounds) placed second; Amaia Mendez, Red Cedar Elementary (10U, 76 pounds) was third; and Angely Mendez, Bluffton Middle School (14U, 119 pounds), placed fourth.

pockets full of sunshine

ENHANCING LIVES OF EXCEPTIONAL ADULTS

Pockets Full of Sunshine was incorporated in 2015 and has been growing and thriving in the Lowcountry ever since.

The “Rays” (a moniker given to its participants, adults with disabilities) are out and about in the community engaging in a variety of activities and venues.

Whether it’s crafting or screen printing in their warehouse, playing pickleball, miniature golf, dinners, shows or walking in the park, the program provides inclusive opportunities to connect with one another and the community at large.

By partnering with various business owners, organizations and events, Pockets Full of Sunshine takes advantage of all the Lowcountry has to offer.

PFS was created out of need and inspired by waste material from an automotive label company that looks like a small yellow “sunshine.”

The “sunshines” are now upcycled by the Rays, who turn them into greeting cards, gift tags, magnets and much more.

Screen printing is a fulfilling activity and provides an opportunity for Rays to sell their wares and participate at local markets. Every activity and endeavor is viewed as a teachable moment and element of fun.

PFS core values are centered around “doing the right thing” by being respectful, grateful, purposeful and embracing of everyone’s ability to make a difference in the world.

Working in a vacuum is not an option. PFS is reliant and extremely appreciative of all its partners, donors and volunteers who support and embrace the cause. It does take a village.

spotlight on giving

WOMEN WHO CARE DONATE TO NAMI

100+ Women Who Care Greater Bluffton gave a “generous” donation to NAMI Lowcountry. The funds will continue to support NAMI Lowcountry’s mission of providing the community free mental health services, a Facebook post noted.

MINDFUL TRIATHLON RAISES FUNDS FOR SEA TURTLE PATROL

Sea Turtle Patrol HHI was the beneficiary of funds from the Mindful Triathlon, hosted by Hilton Head Running Company and Jiva Yoga Center. The money will help the Patrol continue to protect the island’s sea turtles.

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giving back

ROOF FOR TROOPS HELPS SUPPORT VETERANS

Written by Amy Coyne Bredeson

Marine veteran Jeff Failing’s home in Port Royal had suffered wind damage on the roof, and rain was leaking inside, so he contacted Monarch Roofing for an estimate.

Failing and his wife, Gabriela, were surprised with a brand new roof in 2021. Thanks to a partnership between Monarch Roofing, roofing manufacturer GAF and various veteran organizations, they did not have to pay a penny for the upgrade.

Failing had spoken with Monarch general manager Cody Frost about the issues he had with his roof, and Frost knew right away that Failing was the perfect candidate for the Roof for Troops program.

“He was just an awesome guy to be around,” Frost said. “He was very positive.”

Frost said Failing’s house had a type of shingle that wasn’t rated for the area. It wasn’t up to building code.

After thoroughly vetting Failing and his roof situation, Frost confirmed that the Failing family qualified for a free roof.

Then came the fun part. Frost, who is also a Marine veteran, along with the team at Monarch got to start planning the surprise.

“I had to kind of trick him a little bit,” Frost said. “I kept telling him that our crews were delayed or the materials were delayed. I think he was starting to get a little irritated with me. And we finally showed up to his house with a bunch of roofing material, and he figured out why I was tricking him.”

Photos by Ritterbeck Photography

Monarch Roofing general manager Cody Frost believes it's important to always give back to the community.

Monarch marketing director Alicia Tetreault said the Roof for Troops recipients think they are going to pay for the new roofs and are later surprised with the great news. She said the company usually tells the homeowners that they will be stopping by to do one more inspection, but they show up with a team to surprise the family.

“They’re usually very surprised,” Tetreault said, adding that family and friends are invited to join a celebration on installation day.

With the help of veteran centers, the Military Officers Association of America, the American Legion and Blue Star Mothers of America, Roof for Troops gives away one new roof every year at each of its locations in the Lowcountry, Myrtle Beach and Wilmington, N.C. The shingles are manufactured by GAF.

Frost said the veterans get the best roofing systems available, with a warranty backed by the manufacturer.

“So if Monarch ever went out of business, it’s still covered through that manufacturer, even though we installed the roof,” Frost said. “It’s kind of like having insurance, just peace of mind. They don’t ever have to worry about their roof again.”

The roof recipients are nominated either by someone in the community or by one of the veteran groups.

Sometimes, as in the Failing’s case, Monarch will meet with someone about a possible job and then discover the homeowner is a veteran.

And sometimes while chatting with a veteran, a Monarch team member will discover additional problems with the home that can be remedied by one of their remodeling partners.

Tetreault said every one of the program’s recipients has said they don’t need the roof as much as others do.

“They’re always willing to give to someone else and thinking of others before themselves, which is always incredible,” she said.

Frost said the program has given away 20 roofs since its inception. The local office on Argent Boulevard has installed free roofs in Rincon, Beaufort and Bluffton.

“As we grow, we’re looking to be all over the country and helping many different people,” Frost said. “This program is special to me, specifically because my closest friends and family have all been in the military, and I think it’s definitely a deserving community to give back to. I think it’s important to always give back to that community.”

To nominate a veteran for the Roof for Troops program, go to www.monarchroofing.biz/roofs-for-troops.

business news

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ADDS SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Jayson Davidson has joined the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry as a senior accountant. He has 20 years of experience in accounting. Davidson has spent the past 31 years living in the Lowcountry, and his local work experience includes Hilton Head Island Beach and Tennis and Park Lane Hotel and Suites.

COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM WELCOMES DIVERSE NARRATIVES EDUCATOR

Katie Seeber is the diverse narratives educator at the Coastal Discovery Museum. She is a communitybased archaeologist who has more than seven years of experience on Hilton Head Island.

BLUFFTON HIRES TOWN CLERK

Marcia Hunter has been named Town of Bluffton’s clerk. Hunter will serve as a liaison between Town Council and citizens and be keeper of Town Council's legislative history.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND ADDS COMMUNITY CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Jeff Shumaker is the Town of Hilton Head’s community code enforcement officer. He has more than 15 years of experience as a South Carolina Master Trooper. Shumaker will enforce local codes and ordinances.

PET CARE BUSINESS LAUNCHES IN BLUFFTON

Uncle B’s PAWSitive Pets, a pet concierge business, opened in Bluffton. It offers pet sitting, dog field trips, dog walking, pet photo shoots, baths and basic grooming and other services. The business is Rover certified.

USCB PROFESSOR WINS CAROLINA TRUSTEES PROFESSORSHIP AWARD

Dr. Ellen Malphrus of the University of South Carolina Beaufort has been named the recipient of the Carolina Trustees Professorship

Award in recognition of her outstanding work as an educator, author and scholar. The Carolina Trustees Professorship is a prestigious award presented annually for excellence in teaching, research and service.

OUTSIDE BRANDS NAMES DIRECTOR OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND STRATEGY

Jennifer Messier has been named director of risk management and strategy at Outside Brands. Messier spent 13 years as the general manager of Runaway Hill Inn and Restaurant on Harbour Island, Bahamas.

J. BANKS DESIGN EARNS TOP HONOR

J.Banks Design was ranked as a 2023 Hospitality Giant and Rising Giant in Interior Design Magazine. The Interior Design Giants annual business survey comprises the largest firms ranked by interior design fees for 2022.

JB BOARDS OPENS SHOWROOM

JB Boards, founded in 2013 and had been an online store, opened a showroom to display its boards and accessories. JB Boards has stand-up paddle boards, paddles, travel bags and leashes. The showroom is at 78 Arrow Rd. in Hilton Head.

PARK PLAZA CINEMA WELCOMES OPERATIONS MANAGERS

Ben Placilla and John Ragsdale have joined Park Plaza Cinema as operations managers. Placilla was previously an assistant terminal manager. Ragsdale previously had various senior management roles in logistics, technology, manufacturing and hospitality.

F45 TRAINING DEBUTS ON HHI

F45 Training of Hilton Head opened its new location at 50 Shelter Cove Ln., Suite N-O. It is designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength and endurance.

Messier

Hunter

Shumaker

Malphrus

Davidson

L.J. Bush Jr. has a passion for mentoring youth in the Lowcountry.

making an impact by mentoring

L.J. BUSH JR. INSPIRES

LOWCOUNTRY YOUTH THROUGH THE COIN PROJECT

Written

by Edward Thomas I Photography by Rob Kaufman

Leon “L.J.” Bush Jr., executive director of “The COIN Project: Changing Our Image Now,” has never lacked motivation.

It was instilled by his parents, Leon and Laura Bush of Bluffton, and today in his early 50s he embraces a deep sense of respectful appreciation for the sacrifices and resilience of his family’s Lowcountry lineage, traceable nearly 300 years when his forefathers worked the fields of plantations on Spring Island and Bluffton.

Early in his youth, Bush displayed his gift of athletic prowess. By high school he had grown to a strapping 6-foot-2, 215-pound frame, with quick feet that helped him earn all-state honors in football (defensive end) and baseball (catcher). His efforts earned him a combined-sport athletic scholarship to Norfolk State University in Virginia.

However, what he remembers most about that period of his life is how his parents instilled three key principles in him and his three sisters: “Love God. Respect your family name. Pursue a life of purpose to succeed personally while helping others along the way.”

Upon finishing college Bush had several

opportunities to move forward with his life elsewhere — perhaps to a larger city with greater opportunities. But a yearning for the distinctive Lowcountry life, and a hidden desire to be engaged in ways that would benefit his community, led him back to Beaufort County.

Bush was soon immersed as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Hilton Head High School. He also took a job with Hilton Head Public Service District, where he was the youngest of a large group of workers.

“I learned a lot from the older guys at the public service district,” says Bush. “They took me under their wing and showed me the ropes. That experience taught me how important mentoring could be.”

Pete Nardi, now general manager of Hilton Head Public Service District, says: “L.J. turned into a great community ambassador for us because of his stature in the community with young people. A lot of young men started their careers here because of L.J.”

Bush’s mentoring passion took a major step forward when he was inspired to become a

Certified Life Coach in conjunction with the renowned International Coaching Science Research Foundation.

“It was a great experience. It helped me be a more active listener and how to help the young people clarify their goals,” he said.

Together with his mother, Bush came up with the name “Changing Our Image Now” (COIN) for his new enterprise.

Four years later, Bush struck up a friendship with entrepreneur Billy Watterson, who expressed admiration for the mentoring initiatives COIN had underway and an offer to provide financial support. In particular, he was interested in the potential COIN offered to combat poverty in the Lowcountry by enabling young people to establish viable careers in the local workforce.

A key aspect of today’s COIN program is exposing youth from 14 to 20 years old to career opportunities that they may otherwise never have known about.

“Our ultimate goal is to broaden horizons for these young

people, and equip them with essential life skills to achieve their personal goals,” says Bush. “Often teens these days have very limited ideas about what they want to do in life. So, one of the first things I ask them is, ‘Do you want to be successful?’ When they say yes, I tell them: ‘OK, I can work with you on that.’ ”

With 25 participants now, and more than 70 over past three years, COIN has established relationships with local fire departments, local utility companies, Hilton Head Hospital and Disney Corporation, among other local businesses. It has also helped create internship diversity programs with national companies like Proctor & Gamble. James Pinckney Jr. is currently doing a second summer internship with Proctor & Gamble.

Another important aspect of the program is a collaboration between COIN and the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation. Bush has facilitated meetings between BCEDC and some of its high-profile

Above: L.J. Bush pictured coaching at Hilton Head High in the 1990s. Right: COIN started a drumline which has performed at community events.

participants like Lockheed Martin Space and L3 Harris/Kigre, which produces solid-state laser components on Hilton Head.

Charlie Stone, a senior project manager with BCEDC, points out that COIN “has not only opened the eyes of these young men but has also helped them realize new potential career opportunities.”

Bush also insists that his teenagers participate in volunteer community events, and by doing so learn about giving back and experiencing firsthand how they can contribute to the betterment of their surroundings.

“We make it fun for them. We started, a drumline and now it gets invited to perform at community events,” says Bush.

Said Hilton Head Town Council member Alex Brown: “The COIN program is already making a significant impact with these young people in our community. It’s broadening their horizons and instilling a new sense of purpose for them.”

More information about the organization can be found online at changingourimagenow.org.

A key aspect of today’s COIN program is exposing youth to career opportunities that they may never have known about.

Courtesy COIN Project

stylish summer

PHOTOS BY RITTERBECK PHOTOGRAPHY

MODELS:

Nicholas Royce Strimpfel

Meg James

Henry Kolb

Emily Francis

Madison Francis

*Special thanks to Lindsay Finger and the Long Cove Club

B-Jack’s Deep South Mercantile 16 Church Street Bluffton, SC 29910

Shoes: Gorilla Kickz

890 William Hilton Pkwy Fresh Market Shops Hilton Head Island gorillakickz.com

Bennali’s Coastal Wear

Coligny Plaza

1 N Forest Beach Dr

Hilton Head Island

Bag: Gifted 1000 William Hilton Pkwy

Hilton Head Island

giftedhhi.com

Shoes:

Gorilla Kickz

890 William

Hilton Pkwy

Fresh Market Shops

Hilton Head Island

gorillakickz.com

SM Bradford Co. 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Hilton Head smbradfordco.com

Water Bottle: Gifted 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Hilton Head Island giftedhhi.com

1000 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island

Haskins & Co

1 N Forest Beach Dr Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 haskinssupply.com

restaurant news

LUCKY BEACH BAR + KITCHEN OPENS

Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen held a ribbon cutting for its Hilton Head Island restaurant at 14 Folly Field Road. The restaurant has seating for about 250 people. Its menu will feature updated takes on American classics with Southern and Caribbean inspiration, its website said. Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen will feature a take-out window open from breakfast to late night.

SEAFOOD MARKET HAS NEW BLUFFTON HOME

Lemon Island Seafood has moved to 22 Plantation Park Dr., Suite 101 in Bluffton, which is near Dairy Queen. The market offers fresh local seafood.

BLACK MARLIN BAYSIDE GRILL HOLDS RE-OPENING

Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar held a ribbon cutting for its remodeled restaurant at 86 Helmsman Way, Palmetto Bay Marina. The restaurant offers seafood, hand-cut steaks and includes the Hurricane Bar.

UNCORKED HOLDS GRAND OPENING

UnCorked Wine, Bar, Food, and Music held a grand opening last month. The live music venue at 1533 Fording Island Rd., Suite 296, has expanded its food menu, installed a sound system, and will start bringing in national music acts throughout the year.

“We will also seek new local talent, but also bring in up-andcoming talent, trying to expand their fan base,” a Facebook post said.

THAI SMILE CUISINE OPENS NEW LOCATION

Thai Smile Cuisine has opened on Hilton Head Island. The new spot is at 11 Palmetto Bay Rd., Suite 102. The restaurant continues to serve its “authentic flavorful Thai dishes” and has added more “street food,” Thai cocktails and mocktails to the menu, according to a Facebook post.

E-TANG OPENS ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND

E-Tang, an Asian Bistro, opened at 811 William Hilton Pkwy. The restaurant offers a blend of dim sum mastery and authentic Chinese cuisine, its Facebook page said, including crafted dumplings. E-Tang has been a popular spot in Savannah, Ga.

HILTON HEAD TAVERN DEBUTS

Hilton Head Tavern recently opened at 44 Shelter Cove Lane. The sports bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features more than 70 TVs. There’s live music and weekly trivia.

Hilton Head Tavern

NEW YO RK CI TY PIZ ZA has been a Lowcountry favorite since 1996

We have 2 locations on Hilton Head, 3 in Blu ton and 1 in Charleston

We use only 100% all natural ingredients in every housemade favorite. Whether you’re a local or just coming for a visit, NYCP is a must eat!

NEW YORK CITY PIZZA has been a Lowcountry favorite since 1996. We have 2 locations on Hilton Head, 3 in Bluffton and 1 in Charleston. We use only 100% all natural ingredients in every housemade favorite. Whether you’re a local or just coming for a visit, NYCP is a must eat!

Make sure to visit our website, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram! Don’t forget to use #Ilovenycp!

Make sure to visit our website, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram! Don’t forget to use #Ilovenycp!

meet matty

BARTENDER BUSSMANN MAKES SURE EVERYBODY FEELS WELCOME

Written by Anthony Garzilli | Photos by Ritterbeck Photography

Matty Bussmann aims to treat all his customers like family. Bussmann, bartender at Street Meet American Tavern, has been making drinks and making people smile for 30 years.

Since he began bartending in 1993, Bussmann has ensured everybody has a good time and always feels welcome.

“That gives me a whole lot of enjoyment,” he said.

Bussmann, who started his career working at a “hockey bar” in St. Louis (owned by Blues legend Bernie Federko), has been on the island since 1996, when he arrived to help at his grandparents’ beach house for just six months. Instead, he never left.

“I’ve gotten to meet and know a lot of island regulars,” said Bussmann, whose first job on the island was at Skull Creek Boathouse. “My core group of friends today are some of the people I met my first four years working on the docks.”

Bussmann also hosts trivia night at Brother Shucker’s Bar and Grill. He meticulously prepares 60 questions for the Monday sessions. He’ll often have two different trivia books and numerous websites open to do his research on everything from film, TV, music, history, science and geography.

Bussmann enjoys keeping the entire crowd – young and old — engaged.

“I like to keep it moving, bouncing all over,” he said. “I’ll do a question about Scooby-Doo or who were the two grumpy old guys in the back of the theater in the Muppets, and then do a current events question. If you want to do good on my trivia, you need to have a team that’s got a whole lot of demographics going on, age-wise.”

He looks forward to crafting questions for the entire family.

“Seeing three or four generations all sitting around and having a really good time because I threw in some Disney questions so the grandkids can be involved, as well as what were the names of the beaches at Normandy so that grandpa feels like he’s involved too, that’s pretty fun,” he said.

macdaddy matty margarita

MATTY’S MUSING: “The best margarita you ever had in your life” Bussmann said. “You got a little bit of that salty, sweet savoriness to it.”

INGREDIENTS

1.5 oz good silver tequila

(Lunazul recommended)

1 oz Grand Marnier orange

liqueur

DIRECTIONS

1 oz Disaronno Amaretto

3-4 oz. Margarita mix

(Daily’s or Finest Call recommended)

.5 oz orange juice

Rim your glass with salt (sugar optional) . Add ice to glass. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into cocktail glass.

Garnish with a slice of lime, orange — or dragonfruit (specialty).

street meet tea

MATTY’S MUSING: “That drink seems to put a smile on people’s faces,” Bussman said. “It flies across the bar. The great thing about this is it tastes like a peach iced tea. On a warm summer day, who doesn’t want a nice glass of peach iced tea?”

INGREDIENTS

.5 oz Deep Eddy Peach

Vodka

.5 oz peach schnapps

.5 oz silver rum (Bacardi recommended)

.5 oz gin (Beefeater)

DIRECTIONS

.5 oz tequila (Lunazul)

2.5 oz Margarita mix (Daily’s or Finest Call recommended)

1 oz. Coca Cola

Frozen peach slices

Sliced lemon

Add all alcohol ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice.

Top with Coca Cola.

Garnish with slice of lemon and peach.

summertime sangria

MATTY’S MUSING: “This is great if you are having a cook out,” Bussmann said. “You can make a big pitcher of this and set it on the table with a bunch of glasses. It’s like an adult punch at a party. That’s the hit of the party.”

INGREDIENTS

1 oz orange vodka (Absolut Mandarin)

.5 oz peach schnapps

1 oz cranberry juice

Pinot Grigio (Copper Ridge, Frontera)

lemon, lime, orange and dragonfruit (optional) wedges

DIRECTIONS

Add vodka, schnapps and cranberry juice into a shaker with ice.

Shake and strain into a goblet glass filled with ice.

Top glass with Pinot Grigio .

Add in fruit wedges and serve.

20 hatton place | hilton head island 843.802.4744 | celestehhi.com

sunday brunch 11-2

one shelter cove | hilton head island 843.785.3030 | elasgrille.com

sunday brunch 11-2

55 calhoun street | bluffton, sc 843.757.5511 | thepearlbluffton.com

7 toppers lane | port royal, sc 843.379.8899 | roadhouseribs.com

grilled vegetable kabob

A HEARTY BUT HEALTHY MEAL

INGREDIENTS

• Choose the vegetables you wish to grill. Recommended veggies include 2 zucchinis, 2 bell peppers, ½ pound whole mushrooms, 12 grape tomatoes, 1 medium red onion

• ½ cup olive oil

• ½ cup lemon juice

• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 8 skewers (metal or bamboo)

DIRECTIONS

serves: 4

• Cut vegetables into same sizes (bite-sized or preferred size) so they can cook evenly. Be careful not to cut too thin.

• Flavor the vegetables as preferred with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

• Preheat grill to medium heat.

• Thread the vegetables on the skewers. Alternate each one for variety and color presentation until they reached the end of the skewer.

• Cook for about 12 minutes, turning every few minutes until veggies are lightly charred.

• Apply extra seasoning as needed.

• Remove from grill and serve warm.

tonya hudson’s mussels with diced tomatoes and garlic

There’s a lot of talk about Lowcountry oysters (and for good reason), but mussels are often overlooked as a comparably delicious shellfish dish. These delicate crustaceans make an excellent addition to seafood pasta and stews as well as a stand-alone dish.

We only source sustainably harvested mussels from Prince Edward Island that are delivered fresh to our market daily. From the pristine Atlantic waters off the coast of Nova Scotia, these jet-black mussels are considered some of the best in the world. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the island provide an ideal habitat for these bivalves to thrive and develop a unique flavor profile. These mussels are known for their plump and juicy meat, which has a slightly sweet and briny taste. And when paired with an aromatic mixture of tomatoes and garlic, these mussels make for a sophisticated seafood dinner that secretly took minutes to make.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped fine

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 cups drained canned tomatoes in thick puree, chopped (from one 28-ounce can)

• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/4 teaspoon dried red-pepper flakes

• 4 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded

• 1/8 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper

• Salt, if needed

• Garlic Toast (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley, tomatoes, thyme, and red-pepper flakes. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Discard any mussels that have broken shells or that don’t clamp shut when tapped. Add the mussels to the pot. Cover; bring to a boil. Cook, shaking the pot occasionally, just until the mussels open, about 3 minutes. Remove the open mussels. Continue to boil, uncovering the pot as necessary to remove the mussels as soon as their shells open. Discard any that do not open.

3. Stir the black pepper into the broth. Taste the broth and, if needed, add salt. Ladle the broth over the mussels and serve with the garlic toast.

Tonya Hudson is owner of Hudson’s Seafood Market, known far and wide for selling the freshest and best seafood for over 5 generations. Find them at 175 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, 29926

grilled corn on the cob

TENDER AND TASTY serves: 6

INGREDIENTS

• 6 ears of corn

• 2 cups olive oil

• Butter

• Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Peel back husks and remove silk from each ear of corn.

• Apply olive oil

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

• Put corn on grill and cook for 10-15 minutes. Rotate every few minutes.

• Remove corn with tongs.

• Apply melted butter evenly to corn and season with salt and pepper (can include paprika or garlic powder).

• Serve

pickled cucumber salad

COOL SUMMER SIDE DISH

INGREDIENTS

• 2 seedless cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 red onion thinly sliced

• 2.5 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1.5 teaspoons sugar

DIRECTIONS

serves: 4

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill minced

• 1/3 cup water

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

• Chopped fresh dill if desired

• Place cucumber slices into a bowl and toss with sugar and salt.

• Let sit for 5-7 minutes.

• Add onion

• Add vinegar and dill and toss again

• Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 10 minutes

• Serve

baked macaroni and cheese

FEED A CROWD

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. dried elbow pasta

• 1/2 cup butter (we suggest unsalted)

• 1/2 cup all purpose flour

• 1 cup whole or 2% milk

• 2 1/2 cups half and half

serves: 6-8

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a large baking dish.

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add dried pasta and cook 2 minutes less than the package directs for al dente. Drain pasta. (pasta will finish cooking in the oven)

• While pasta is cooking, shred cheeses and toss together in large bowl to mix.

• Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to combine until mixture looks like wet sand.

• Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, whisking often.

• 2 cups medium sharp cheddar freshly shredded (measured after shredding)

• 2 cups sharp cheddar freshly shredded (measured after shredding)

• 2 cups Gruyere cheese freshly shredded (measured after shredding)

• 1/2 Tbsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

• 1/4 tsp. paprika

NOTES:

• Shred the cheese yourself. Preshredded cheese is coated with an anticaking ingredient which prevents it from melting smoothly.

• Substitute elbows with small shells, cavatappi or penne if desired.

• Slowly add the 2 cups half and half, while whisking until smooth. Continue wisking while slowly pouring in the remaining half and half and milk. Wisk until smooth.

• Continue to heat over medium heat, whisking often, until thickened.

• Lower heat to low and add 1 1/2 cups of the mixed cheeses, stirring constantly. Once melted and combined, stir in additional 1 1/2 cups of cheese, and stir until melted and smooth.

• Remove from heat.

• In a large bowl, add cheese sauce to drained pasta, stirring to combine fully. (Depending on pasta used, there may be sauce remaining)

• Add half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.

• Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheeses,

• Layer with the remaining pasta mixture.

• Top with the last 1 1/2 cups of cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown.

coastalcreativityliving

STYLE YOUR HOME FOR A TOUCH OF TRANQUILITY

Written by NancyLee Honey

The Lowcountry is known for some of its quintessential coastalstyle homes. Want to turn your home into the epitome of coastal living? Here are a few tips.

UNIQUE TOUCHES

Coastal touches open our minds to new ideas and the glories of Mother Nature. Everyone finds their own special way of transitioning from darker, heavier furniture to the lightness of wicker and brighter hues.

A robin’s egg blue or Kelly green, shared with neutral hints of spring, offer a care-free way to spend our days. The renowned Greenbrier decorator/designer Dorothy Draper was once told she could not combine blues and greens. She promptly retorted, “Why not, God did!”

Colors we choose are unique to us, as are the personal touches which reflect our history and roots. Blend favorite shades of blues, greens, corals with those cherished pieces from grandparents and parents to transform and define your dwelling.

MAKE A SPLASH

Want to make a splash? Open your home to the glories of nature. Breezy, happy colors combined with natural, garden touches can be enjoyed year-round, on or off the coast.

Understated elegance, incorporating bright colors and stunning accents, creates a relaxed atmosphere both at home during work days and on cherished weekends. A few changes with new colors, scattered plants, cottons and linens can add multiple years of delight and comfort.

JOURNEY WITH NATURE

Incorporate plants and flowers on a lovely natural ottoman and suddenly the magic of nature becomes an integral addition into daily lives.

Plants swinging from woven hanging baskets, or flowers settled colorfully on a natural driftwood table, enliven a room. Scatter beautiful shells around pillars holding potted, healthy Philodendron or snappy Draconian.

Settle a graceful fern as an accent piece on a few favorite books. Adding a skylight whereever possible will let the light shine in, since it is a key element in creating coastal living spaces.

Bringing nature indoors is a strategic factor in mirroring coastal living.

Nature soothes the soul like nothing or no one can. According to a Prevention Magazine article, “Nature is good for the brain. Living in an area with lots of green space is linked to faster thinking, better focus and higher cognitive function in midlife.”

Writer and art critic John Ruskin said it perfectly:

“Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.”

SURROUNDING BACKDROPS

Three crisp cream walls, with the fourth one accented by a splash of sky blue, transforms a room into peace and tranquility.

Bedrooms especially delight in soothing blues. Languish in a cozy La-Z-Boy sporting a blue striped pillow for quiet reading time.

A lovely white four-poster complemented by sheer window panels and a fluffy rug praising other blue hues in the room will easily yield a field of dreams.

CREATE A LIGHTER ATMOSPHERE

No matter the location, the airiness of sky and sea can be incorporated to brighten a home. Grasp and delight in untold benefits by creating a lighter, flowing atmosphere in your home. Decorating innovations provide a fresh approach for Coastal living.

Robert Wyland captured the essence: “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.”

Golf Course Pergolas

Cart Barns/Club Houses

Commercial Properties

Residential Properties

Back-Up Power for Courses

Sylvain, left, and Jean-Luc Riendeau

part of solutionthe

FATHER-SON TEAM DETERMINED TO RAISE ECO-AWARENESS

Written by Mark E. Lett I Photos by Rob Kaufman

A father-and-son team in Bluffton is pursuing a high-minded environmental vision for the Lowcountry.

Sylvain Riendeau and his son, Jean-Luc, are the owners, operators and visionaries behind a concept and a company dedicated to raising ecoawareness and lowering the pollution and noise generated by vast numbers of gas-powered yard equipment.

It’s a business and a passion for these two men.

Their message: “Become better stewards of the environment and planet” by encouraging the use of battery-powered landscaping equipment.

Their target audience: Commercial lawn services tending the sprawling yards and green spaces of the Lowcountry’s many plantations, residential developments and recreational areas.

“You can be part of the problem or part of the solution,” said Sylvain, a mechanical engineer and Canadian transplant, who founded the EEZero company on Red Cedar Street last year.

Jean-Luc, trained in equipment instrumentation, adds: “By embracing these eco-friendly alternatives, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner, greener practices … Battery landscaping equipment offers a quieter and emission-free alternative.”

The Riendeaus are on the front lines of a growing movement to limit air emissions from garden equipment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that one hour of operating a new gasoline lawn mower emits the same amount of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxide as driving a new car 45 miles.

The EPA estimates that garden equipment engines produce up to 5 percent of the nation’s air pollution, including pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.

The EPA contends more than 17 million gallons of gasoline are spilled annually as garden equipment is refueled.

“People lie, but numbers don’t lie,” said Sylvain, whose career in life-science businesses includes years specializing in sub-zero commercial and industrial refrigeration engineering and services.

He said his commitment to a cleaner environment was deepened by watching a public television documentary during a commercial airlines flight to visit family members in Montreal.

The program warned of a planet threatened by global warming and pollution. Sylvain said he took to heart the suggestion that each person has a duty to help assure a sustainable environment.

“I have concerns,” he said. “We have the knowledge and the science to make a difference. I asked myself how could I help.”

The father-son team said environmental education is at the heart of their business. In April, for example, they shared information with members of Lowcountry Environmental Action at Sun City as part of annual Earth Day events – showing their line of eco-friendly equipment and answering questions.

The Riendeaus encourage and assist homeowner associations — POA/HOA — in developing sustainability initiatives for the Lowcountry developments.

“We need to do everything we can to protect our environment for our children and grandchildren,” encouraged an EEZero company message. “Together, we can position the Lowcountry as a leader in sustainability.”

California and cities across America have banned gaspowered leaf blowers and mowers in campaigns to trim air pollution. Pro Tool Review last year reported that Honda would stop manufacturing gas lawn mowers this year and would sell out remaining stock until it is gone.

Honda said the move was “driven by market forces such as stricter environmental regulations and shifting customer preferences.”

Sylvain said his EEZero and businesses like it offer “zero emission solutions” and clean-energy equipment.

Such equipment also helps reduce noise pollution, EEZero said on its website, noting that gas-powered lawn mowers are fitted with mufflers that “create very little gas flow restriction, which is great for power but bad for noise.

Mowers and blowers crank at about 95 decibels, well above the 85 decibels that can damage hearing with extended and repeated exposure, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control. Electric lawn mowers and lawn equipment are more forgiving, running at about 75 decibels, which is unlikely to damage hearing.

“We have the knowledge and the science to make a difference

- Sylvain Riendeau .”

must read

KING: A LIFE

by Jonathan Eig

Best-selling author Jonathan Eig pens an “exhaustively researched” biography of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. Eig provides readers with an intimate view of King, who “demanded peaceful protest” but was “rarely at peace with himself.”

“King” provides a new look at his determination to fight for justice. Eig follows MLK from “the classroom to the pulpits to the streets of Birmingham, Selma, and Memphis.”

The book is based on hundreds of interviews with those who knew King, recently released FBI documents and thousands of items, including personal letters and unaired television footage. King saw a “moral rot” at the core of American life, but Eig writes: “He also insisted we ‘never lose infinite hope’. He never did.”

new this month:

New York City in the 1970s is teeming with crime and overflowing trash in this “darkly funny tale.” Ray Carney is trying to keep on the straight-and-narrow, but his partner in crime is a constant presence. With Harlem burning “block by block,” Carney enlists Pepper to investigate a fire. They end up battling those who are violent and “utterly corrupted.”

Retired librarian Bob Comet meets a confused elderly woman and returns her to the senior center, where he decides to volunteer. There his story of the Second World War, true love and the purpose of a librarian’s vocation are revealed. The book “celebrates the extraordinary in the so-called ordinary life.”

A story of making connections through books set against the bombing of London during World War II. While running a bookshop during the Blitz, with bombs whistling overhead, Gertie Bingham takes in a refugee. They decide to start an “air raid book club” that brings together neighbors and bookstore customers. The lively discussions bolster spirits in the most trying times.

Who took 9-year-old Avery Wooler? That’s the crux of this mystery novel set in a “safe neighborhood.” William Wooler, whose affair has just ended, returns home to find his daughter unexpectedly home from school. He becomes angry. Hours later she’s declared missing. The neighborhood becomes unhinged. But is he the only one hiding a lie?

re)living history

STEVE QUICK DOES MORE THAN JUST DRESS THE PART IN BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

They say that to truly understand someone, you need to walk a mile in their shoes. So how deep do you suppose that understanding runs when you not only walk a mile in their shoes, but also in their thick wool uniform and while carrying their pack?

Ask Steve Quick.

“Playing a bedraggled Confederate, you’re hauling 15 to 20 pounds of gear in a wool uniform on a hot summer day,” he said. “When you see photos of soldiers, you don’t see a lot of Jenny Craig ‘before’ photos.”

Still, for him the understanding is worth the sweat. Through living history displays that run the gamut of America’s great epochs, from the Revolutionary War to the explorations of Lewis and Clark and through to the First World War, he has put himself in the shoes of some of the greatest patriots, scoundrels, heroes and explorers that our country has produced. So, what has he learned walking all those miles in all those different shoes?

“Over time, I began to realize that what we are taught about history is 80 percent wrong. After these events where there is so much bloodshed, there’s a push to make sense of things and wrap them up in a way that camouflages us from understanding how we got there in the first place,” he said. “I’m fond of telling people that history is like a good therapist. A therapist will help you understand how you got where you are, and history can do the same thing if it’s not hijacked, distorted, politicized or weaponized.”

Written by Barry Kaufman I Photos by Rob Kaufman

Steve Quick has portrayed characters from different time periods. He recently reconstructed the Burning of Bluffton,which took place on June 4, 1863.

He’s also learned that half the battles ever fought by Americans were against their own uniforms.

“There’s one letter from a lady in Maryland during the Civil War from when soldiers came through saying you could smell them for an hour afterward,” he said with a laugh.

Still, for him the discomfort is worth the perspective he gains from living like the historical subjects he studies. And while he’s always had a passion for history, living history was something he fell into when it appeared on his honey-do list. His wife, a teacher, was looking for ways to make history more exciting for her students.

“Halfway through telling me about it, one of her colleagues fixed me with a look that I recognized right away from my wife – that she was going to get me to do something,” he said.

Despite having a fear of public speaking, and access to nothing more than a “really awful Halloween costume that’s a little embarrassing to look back on,” Quick tried his hand at living history and fell in love.

“I had fun, the kids had fun and I realized this was a way to tap into an avocation,” he said.

Starting with the Civil War, he expanded into the Revolutionary War after a year of preparation. But it wasn’t until South Carolina became the nexus for one of the most exciting historical renovations of the modern era that his avocation exploded.

“When the (H.L.) Hunley was resurrected, next thing I knew I had nine different programs I was running, and I was burning through my vacation time going to all these schools,” he said, referencing the Civil War-era submarine that was recovered in 2000.

His vocation as an insurance investigator helped fuel his avocation as a living historian, and before long it was difficult to tell one from the other.

Above:

The Heyward House was constructed in 1841. It is one of eight antebellum homes remaining in Bluffton.

Opposite page: The Historic Bluffton Foundation hosted the Burning of Bluffton reenactment. It plans to host more living history events this year.

And naturally, he’s upgraded somewhat from the Halloween costume.

“There’s a guy who works in historical textiles from N.C. State, who oversees everything — the spinning, the vegetable dyes used… he’s inspected original jackets and copied their patterns,” said Quick of his source for the ultra-authentic costumes that have become his hallmark. “I tell people, ‘Get your kids involved with reenacting. They’ll never have enough money for drugs.’ ”

This intimate relationship with history has given him greater perspective, and working locally on special events like his reenactment of the Burning of Bluffton this June (hosted by the Historic Bluffton Foundation, which plans to host more living history events this year) have helped make history personal for him. Doing research into his own history turned up an ancestor who served on the 11th on Hilton Head Island.

“That’s one of the reasons I agreed to wear blue,” Quick said. “People love knowing that you’re a descendant of someone you’re portraying because they’re looking at someone who looks like the person who was there.”

Quick plans to be involved in further living history programs at the Heyward House, helping Bluffton discover its own history.

“With the welcome center being moved, they’re looking for ways to add to the Heyward House and I think living history could be it,” he said.

Stay tuned to see when you can meet history face to face, and gain a better understanding of where we’ve been.

RESOURCE FOR RESEARCH

HERITAGE LIBRARY HIGHLIGHTS HILTON HEAD’S HISTORY

There’s a suite in a Hilton Head office building that contains a trove of information about the island’s history.

At the Heritage Library, volunteers help patrons research their family trees. The nonprofit also preserves a pair of historic sites, hosts tours and other programs, and houses a collection of “historical information, old photographs, and maps of Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry.”

The library offers annual memberships and daily fees that provide access to its facility and research resources, but it’s not just locals who use these services.

“Many of the island’s visitors also visit the library as part of their vacation, and work with our volunteers on starting or growing their family trees,” executive director Barbara Catenaci said.

In addition to historic books and documents, the library gives patrons access to paid online databases including ancestry.com, HeritageQuest, fold3.com, and americanancestors.org.

In early June, Catenaci said, a group of 15 from the Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island came in to work with library volunteers. Groups can make appointments to reserve time with volunteers, she said, and library personnel also “welcome folks coming in to research independently.”

“Our greatest resource for anyone coming in to do family research is our volunteers,” Catenaci said. “We have a great group of volunteers with experience in genealogy research and they work with visitors one-on-one or in groups.”

Story by Lawrence Conneff | Photography supplied

The library showcases some of its work in online video series called “Our Storied Island” and “The Name Project.” The short documentaries highlight island stories and history through the eyes of locals including Gullah storyteller Louise Cohen, charter boat captain Fuzzy Davis, fisherman Ben Green, restaurant owner Barbara Hudson, and artisan Michael Smalls.

“Our Storied Island” also features the historic sites the library owns and operates: Fort Mitchel and Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery. Catenaci said filming for more videos is planned for this summer and fall.

Tours of Fort Mitchel and Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery are offered from April to October, conducted “by a library docent who is aided in leading the tour by living history characters,” Catenaci said.

“Having characters join in the tours provides guests to the sites with the opportunity to have conversations with the people who made history at our sites,” she said. “Visitors might meet William Baynard, a colonial period planter that built the Baynard Mausoleum – the oldest standing building on

Opposite page: The Heritage Library gives tours that feature living history characters, and hosts Halloween-themed programs.

Above: Artifacts found at Fort Mitchel during an excavation.

Hilton Head Island. They also might meet Captain Jack Stoney, Mary Kirk, Lydia Davant and more of the people that lived on our Island in the 1700’s.”

Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery tours are at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Fort Mitchel tours are at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Reservations are recommended at heritagelib.org.

Catenaci said more events are planned for this fall: Ghosts & Myths, “a Halloween themed program that brings together Island history, folklore and a visit or two from the ghosts of our past,” and Historic Holidays, which “brings together local authors and artists in a great market setting for holiday shopping.”

The Heritage Library also has partnered with the Hilton Head Island Branch Library on a quarterly book club “focusing on local, county, regional, and state history.” The club will discuss its second book, “Coffin Point: The Strange Cases of Ed McTeer, Witchdoctor Sheriff” by Baynard Woods, at 11 a.m. July 12 at 11 Beach City Rd.

“The library will also be presenting history and ancestry classes in the fall as well as workshops focused on our Heirs Property Family Research Project,” Catenaci said.

Looking further ahead, Catenaci said officials are already working on programs to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in 2026.

“We are planning for classes and forums as well as building up our resources so that we can provide our community with as much history and information on the subject as possible,” she said. “There were more battles in our fight for independence fought in South Carolina than in any other state and we want to make sure that we can provide residents and visitors with all the information they need.”

The Heritage Library is located at 2 Corpus Christi Place, Suite 100, Hilton Head Island. It is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and can be reached at 843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org. The library’s website contains more information about genealogical research and island history dating back to its earliest settlements.

invaluable alliance

TCL, HOSPICE CARE PARTNERSHIP GIVES NURSES PERSPECTIVE ON END-OF-LIFE CARE

By Amy Bartlett

Hospice Care of the Lowcountry and Technical College of the Lowcountry have a partnership that’s broadening perspectives on end-of-life care.

“It’s not about dying,” says James Dismond, CEO and Executive Director of Hospice Care of the Lowcountry. “It’s about living.”

That’s not only the hospice’s motto, it’s the concept that motivated their partnership with the nursing program at the Technical College of the Lowcountry, where each nursing class gets clinical hours with HCL staff.

Dismond said the students rotate through a two-day cycle, spending each day with one of two main disciplines: shadowing the social services team (Bereavement Coordinator, Chaplin, Social Worker) and second, being with a Registered Nurse Case Manager.

“The two-day approach is for students to experience how the psychosocial aspect of hospice care pairs with the clinical aspect in a day-to-day view of how registered nurses in hospice are clinically and emotionally unique,” he said.

Vandy Amason, TCL’s Nursing Program Director and Instructor, says the two-day rotation is invaluable to TCL’s nursing students.

“It gives our students the opportunity to see an aspect of nursing that is very unique,” she said. “It’s a communitybased service, so it helps students understand how healthcare is managed at home and in other community settings rather than just hospitals and outpatient facilities. It also lets them see a holistic approach to patient care rather than just the disease process.”

Amason added: “It looks at everything about the patient – what resources are available and their support system –and really brings it all together. It emphasizes that nurses care for patients from beginning to end, however long or short that journey may be.”

The relationship between HCL and TCL teaches caregivers how to provide this level of care and influences a still developing perspective shift.

This process of discovery works in both directions as HCL reports from an organizational standpoint that the one-onone time with students has opened the teaching staff’s eyes

and worked to lessen the supply gap for workers.

“In the past,” Dismond said, “recruiting an RN directly out of school was unheard of. We preferred seasoned, wellrounded RNs. Now, recent graduates have already acquired the passion and drive to directly enter the field of hospice.”

HCL provides care-based training in a uniquely relational and human way, striving to learn what each person needs before passing away and providing it where possible.

“More times than not, it’s not even about medicine,” said Dismond, noting stories of parents who reconciled with children, or couples who exchanged vows moments before one of them passed away.

That’s what HCL is teaching TCL’s nursing students — that it’s about the time you do have and preparing for the “absolutes” before there’s a medical crisis.

“(Recently) we had students on site, and one of the students stated on day one that she was eager to get a job in the emergency department or the ICU,” Dismond said. “By day two she said that watching the RN case manager hands-on made her realize that position is the nucleus of the care team, managing and coordinating care at a high level. Before she left, she shared that hospice was now at the top of her career list.”

Dismond said it’s also important to note that the staff does a “well-rounded job” at immersing the students in all aspects of hospice to see how the case management aspect is many moving pieces.

“They see the many different hats it takes to care for the dying patient: RN, LPN, CNA, NP, Physician, Chaplin, social worker, bereavement coordinator, patient family volunteers and other contract therapists,” he said.

This variety of careers translates to a variety of care.

“Families are different than they were 40 years ago when hospice was developing in the U.S.,” says Dismond. “It’s not always children or descendants making decisions – the decision makers are often the patients themselves. If you don’t know what that climate looks like for your own endof-life care, don’t avoid the discovery process. Start the conversation that can make the difference between just dying and learning how to live well until your dying day.”

CATCH THE ‘BIG PRIZE’

Reel in these summertime fish

By Clay Bonnyman Evans

In early spring, anglers in the waters around Hilton Head Island often go after sheepshead, also knowns as “convict fish,” distinctive not just for their black-and-white stripes but also their square, blunt teeth, useful in crushing the hard shells of mollusks and barnacles.

But here’s just one sharp, even pointed, difference between spring and summer fishing in local waters: Sheepshead have taken their human-like teeth farther offshore, while no fewer than 15 species of shark are teeming in and around Calibogue Sound.

“During summer, when the water has gotten hot, we have sharks here in huge numbers,” says Buddy Brinkley, owner

of Captain Buddy’s fishing charter service. “We have more sharks in this area than anywhere else on planet earth. It’s a giant shark nursery in summertime.”

Among the species found in Hilton Head waters are hammerheads, bonnetheads, bull sharks, lemon sharks, tiger sharks, blacktip sharks and even the occasional great white. Buddy and his guests often fish for shark in Calibogue Sound, the deep channel between Hilton Head and Daufuskie islands.

But sharks are far from the only, or even favorite, saltwater quarry from June through September, which is generally considered the best fishing season in the Lowcountry,

photo: Captain Buddy’s Facebook page

thanks to warm water and offshore current upwelling.

Numerous game species can be found in and around inshore tidal creeks and smaller bodies of water, from red drum (aka redfish) to flounder to speckled sea trout (actually a member of the drum family, Sciaenidae, not the trout family, Salmonidae).

“The big difference in the near-shore bite is that the sheepshead have left,” says Capt. Buddy. “They’ve been replaced by Spanish and king mackerel. There’s an old saying that once the monarch butterflies have shown up, then the mackerel are here.”

Anglers go for both Spanish and king mackerel, which are known for having teeth as sharp as their distant fishy cousin, the shark.

Near-shore, or littoral, waters off Hilton Head Island provide excellent summer fishing, in part because they are studded with artificial reefs built upon everything from sunken U.S. Army tanks to defunct New York subway cars, says Buddy, an Army veteran. The reefs teem with countless game species in warm summer waters.

From late May through September, cobia, aka ling cod, and known locally as “brownies,” are “the big prize” in nearshore waters, Buddy says. The largest cobia ever caught was 135.9 pounds, and catching cobia up to 40 or 50 pounds is not uncommon during Hilton Head’s summer-fishing season.

“The early part of summer is a really good time for cobia, so that’s what we’re normally targeting at near-shore reefs,” he says, along with smaller sea bass.

Captain Buddy’s also takes guests 25 to 50 miles from the sandy shores of the island to fish deeper, offshore waters.

“We fish live bottom-coral reefs and ledges, which hold vermilion snapper, triggerfish and grouper,” as well as larger sea bass and amberjack, Buddy says.

Anglers can keep up to two red snapper, prized on seafood menus for their sweet, mild flavor, per day in South Carolina state waters, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. But the species is not often caught close to shore, and regulations have limited the catch in federal waters in recent years.

“You’re only allowed to keep red snapper two days out of the entire year this year” in offshore South Carolina waters, compared to six weeks in the Gulf of Mexico, says Buddy, who lives in Bluffton with his wife Casey and their two small daughters.

Despite the wide variety of prized species in local waters, Buddy doesn’t hesitate to name the king mackerel as his favorite summer-season fish to catch.

“It takes a lot of discipline to get them to the boat. They have huge eyes, so they’re not going to hit big tackle and you have to fight them on a very light drag,” he says. “A million things can go wrong. But bringing in a massive fish on a tiny little treble hook is very rewarding.”

BLACKTIP SHARK

Blacktip sharks are recognizable by a prominent “Z” line along their sides, a moderately long and pointed snout, robust body, and black tips on the pectoral, dorsal, and pelvic fins. They are often confused with spinner sharks, which also have black tips on their anal fins and a longer snout.

Average Size: 60 inches, 40 pounds

South Carolina state record: 163 pounds (2009)

Maximum age: Approx. 23 years

BLACK DRUM

Deep-bodied, silvery-gray to dark gray with blackish fins. Young fish have four to five vertical black bars that disappear with age. Mouth inferior and horizontal, lower jaw with 10-13 pairs of barbels in multiple rows. Body scales large and comblike, lateral line extends to hind margin of tail fin.

Average Size: 14 inches, 2.2 pounds

South Carolina state record: 89 pounds (1978)

Maximum age: Approx. 60 years

KING MACKEREL

Back iridescent bluish-green; sides silver; first dorsal fin with light and uniform pigment and 1416 spines; snout much shorter than rest of head; posterior maxilla (mouth) exposed and reaching posterior portion of eye; lateral line with abrupt downward curve at second dorsal fin.

Average Size: 33 inches, 10 pounds; South Carolina state record: 62 pounds (1976)

maximum age: Approx. 14 years

SOURCE: DNR.SC.GOV

little armored ones

By George Armond

Sources: Clemson Extension. SCDNR. SC Public Radio.

ARMADILLOS ROAM THE STATE

The “little armored ones” have become prevalent in South Carolina.

There are 20 species of armadillo (armadillo means “little armored one” in Spanish) but nine-banded armadillos are the only ones found in the United States. They have been spotted in all 46 counties in South Carolina, according to a S.C. Public Radio report in 2022.

It’s not uncommon to see an armadillo in our area. Here’s a primer on the mammals.

NINE BANDS

Armadillos weigh 8 to 17 pounds and have small, peg-like teeth. The nine-banded armadillo has a protective armor of “horny” material on its head, body and tail. It gets its name from the nine bands that wrap around its torso, according to Clemson Extension.

Armadillos have a long tail encased in 12 bony rings.

HABITAT

Armadillos prefer dense, shady cover such as brush, woodlands, forests, and areas adjacent to creeks and rivers, S.C. Department of Natural Resources notes.

They like warm, wet climates and are often found searching for food by digging in garden beds and yards, Clemson Extension said.

Armadillos eat insects, larvae, small vertebrates, maggots and pupae in carrion, and eggs. They will eat lizards, small frogs, snakes, and the eggs of upland birds. Armadillos make low grunting sounds when feeding or when mothers call their young.

Armadillos can hold their breath for up to six minutes, making it easier for them to swim long distances or to forage for food while digging in the soil, according to Clemson Extension.

They are usually active from twilight through early morning in the summer and avoid activity during extreme temperatures.

BE AWARE

If you see uprooted flowers, turf damage or disrupted insect mounds, an armadillo might be in the area.

They create several “cone-shaped” holes, measuring 1 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches wide, in the ground when rooting, Clemson Extension said. Their burrows measure 7-8 inches in diameter and up to 15 feet deep.

Armadillos burrow under foundations, concrete slabs, driveways, pools, and other structures, but are not considered a threat to crops or livestock, SCDNR notes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the southern U.S. some armadillos are naturally infected with the bacteria that cause Hansen’s disease (leprosy) and can spread it to people. However, the risk is “very low,” and most people who encounter armadillos are unlikely to get Hansen’s disease.

PREVENTION

Fences or barriers can be the best way to keep armadillos at bay. SCDNR suggests burying a fence 12 to 18 inches and to extend it at least 3-4 feet high.

There are no known repellents or “frightening devices.”

In South Carolina, an armadillo can be trapped and dispatched on site. It is illegal to transport and release an armadillo to a new location, according to SCDNR.

Armadillos can be captured in single-door cage or box traps and two-door cage or box traps. Only use traps that are professionally manufactured when trapping armadillos as armadillos can destroy traps that are poorly constructed. Set traps along pathways to burrows and along fences or other barriers where armadillos may travel.

To discourage armadillos, Clemson Extension suggests removing cover or brush from areas where you might expect them. They prefer to dig burrows in areas with cover, so removing the cover will make the area less attractive and “feel less safe.”

poetry in pickleball

THE SOFT GAME

Play the soft game, play it real hard. Dink your heart out, withhold your card. Dink so careful, stay in your yard. Dink to reset, always on guard. Play the soft game, paddle, push, kiss. Dink with intent, make it your bliss. Dink very deep, slow the abyss. Dink very short, make them submiss. Play the soft game, play til they miss.

There’s poetry in pickleball.

Doug Snelson, a resident of Hampton Lake in Bluffton, is an avid pickleball player. His passion for the sport is exemplified in his latest book of poetry, “Pickleball Poetry: Fun and Whimsical Verses to Dink About.”

Snelson, whose career included an extensive background in healthcare publishing and communications, has written and published five books: three children’s books and two books of poetry.

Each poem in “Pickleball Poetry” tells a short story about the experiences of pickleball — techniques, psychology, physical attributes and various emotions. The subtitle, “Fun and Whimsical Verses to Dink About,” refers to a core shot

technique called “dinking.”

The subtitle also refers to the double meaning for the poetry collection, referring to the “thinking” that makes the game fun and challenging, Snelson said.

He also worked with another pickleball player, a former New York Times freelance illustrator, Jim Ditmars, to subtly illuminate the meaning of the poems.

Snelson said he was inspired to write the book after a morning session of pickleball.

“I wrote whimsical, rhyming stream of consciousness phrases and thoughts about the morning pickleball session,” he said. “The rhymes became short poems.”

Story by Anthony Garzilli Poem by Doug Snelson I Illustration by Jim Ditmars

empowered & engaged

LPGA*USGA GIRLS GOLF OFFERS INSPIRED INTRODUCTION TO THE SPORT

When Krista Dunton helped launch the local LPGA*USGA Girls Golf chapter 14 years ago, she imagined she might someday have a daughter who would benefit from the program.

She was partly right.

“Of course, my 12-year-old daughter wants nothing to do with golf, and she’s playing travel soccer and basketball,” Dunton laughs. “Part of me would like to see her a little more involved, but it’s been great to touch so many kids in this area and fun to see so many girls that I’ve worked with who have either continued with golf or are doing other sports locally.”

The nonprofit LPGA*USGA Girls Golf program was founded in 1989 by noted instructor Sandy LaBauve — a friend of Dunton’s whose daughter, Lindy LaBauve, incidentally, was briefly the women’s golf coach at USCB — and now boasts more than 500 local chapters across the country with more than 1 million girls having participated since its inception.

Dunton started the local chapter in 2009 to provide an easier access point for young girls to be introduced to the game.

“The whole premise was to get girls playing together in a little bit of a nonthreatening environment and get them out there with each other so they can feel more comfortable,” Dunton said.

The backbone of the program is “The Five E’s of Girls Golf” — empowering girls with confidence and inspiring them to dream big; enriching girls’ lives by expanding their minds and horizons; engaging girls with positive female role models and mentors; energizing girls with passion for the game of golf, and exercising girls’ minds and bodies to help them unlock their full potential.

“It ties into golf instruction with building young girls’ character development,” Dunton said, “and just creating good human beings, basically.”

That philosophy overlaps with the nine core values emphasized by The First Tee, another program designed to introduce children to golf and teach valuable life skills in the process, so it was only logical when the local chapters of the two organizations announced a merger this spring.

Story and photos by Justin Jarrett

Led by Krista Dunton, the local LPGA*USGA Girls Golf chapter teaches girls about the sport and develops their skills.

Dunton is a renowned instructor who is a household name on Top 100 lists from the likes of Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. In her role as director of golf instruction at Berkeley Hall, she primarily works with adults, and her network of pupils has become a large source of support for the youth program.

In early June, Dunton organized the 10th installment of the Women Growing Girls Golf fundraiser at Berkeley Hall, bringing together six highly-regarded women pros to lead a clinic for about 50 women and girls. The clinic raises about $4,000 annually to support the grassroots programming through LPGA*USGA Girls Golf.

Dunton said contributions have also come from the Lowcountry Women’s Golf Association and Women’s Stroke Play Organization, as well as past and current students, including some who have made donations in memory of lost loved ones.

“They don’t have any skin in the game, so that means a lot,” Dunton says. “It’s really touched a lot of lives, which is really rewarding. I’m very grateful for women in our community stepping up to support and foster an environment for girls to learn and enjoy the benefits of the game of golf.”

The merger with The First Tee Lowcountry brings an exciting new horizon for Dunton’s LPGA*USGA Girls Golf chapter. Programming will remain largely the same with 10 two-hour sessions from January through early May at Berkeley Hall, Colleton River’s Par 3 course, and The First Tee Lowcountry facility on Hilton Head Island, but the partnership should allow room for the girls golf program to expand.

Dunton’s program grew to nearly 80 girls at one point, and it tested the organization’s resources, but it has leveled off to about 40, which is closer to the sweet spot. Because the grassroots program is focused on introducing beginners to the game, Dunton envisions developing a tiered program, so to speak, that allows players to graduate to more advanced instruction and begin playing more competitively.

“I think the big opportunity for us is getting the girls started young but then developing those players in middle school and keeping them developing competitively to play on the high school team and maybe have an opportunity to play in college,” Dunton says, noting many girls leave the game around ages 12 to 13 when it begins to demand more of their time. “I’d like to see them start to play more tournaments and get ready to play for their schools and play at the next level.”

And if local players put in the work, Dunton thinks the opportunities to keep playing and parlay it into an education will present themselves.

“A lot of the college programs are using a lot of scholarships on European players,” Dunton says. “I’d like to see more of that money stay in the States. I think we just have to create better programs for those girls.”

Krista Dunton

“They don’t have any skin in the game, so that means a lot,” Dunton says. “It’s really touched a lot of lives, which is really rewarding. I’m very grateful for women in our community stepping up to support and foster an environment for girls to learn and enjoy the benefits of the game of golf.”

BLUE RIDGE GETAWAY

photo: visit Blue Ridge Ga Facebook

ENJOY AN ESCAPE TO THE NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS

Written by Jessica Farthing

There’s a peace that’s found in the mountains. If you’re researching travel in the Southeastern states, you’ll find pictures of North Carolina dominate ideas for a mountain escape, but there’s another option that might be off your radar.

The mountain town of Blue Ridge, nestled right on the GeorgiaTennessee border, offers an idyllic escape full of farm fresh produce, exciting outdoor adventure and long-range views. Consider Blue Ridge when you’re looking for a cool, serene mountain getaway.

Here are some of the best activities in the area which are only a sample of the travel offerings available.

SCENIC DOWNTOWN

Known for a robust art scene and quiet tourism, downtown Blue Ridge offers shopping, dining and fun. A local favorite, Blue Ridge Cotton Company, has textiles, art and gifts. For more information, go to blueridgecottoncompany.com.

Huck’s General Store has penny candy, handmade soaps and souvenirs right on Main Street. For more information, go to hucksgeneralstore.com. Blue Ridge Booksellers, a small, independent bookstore, offers rare volumes or a book just right for reading on a mountain porch. The store has been open for more than 20 years but only last year started its own website: “Just dedicated to ‘the book,’” the website says. Visit blueridgebooksellers.com.

For a more adventurous afternoon, buy tickets for Escape Room Blue Ridge and dive into solving mysteries themed for pirates, prohibition or magic.

The “Wizard School of Magic” features an attempt to destroy the artifacts of the once-beaten Dark Lord, who is regaining strength and gathering forces.

The rooms provide “fun for all ages.” Tickets are $25. Times vary. For updates, visit escaperoomblueridge.com

TRY THE TROUT

Blue Ridge restaurants take advantage of the fresh trout available in those mountain streams, but none are as scenic as the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant nestled right on the water.

Try the trout fixed any way you like: lemon pepper, pecan encrusted, crab-stuffed, fried, broiled or smoked. Dog friendly (includes a pooch patio).

Visit them online to learn more at toccoariversiderestaurant.com.

GET YOUR CIDER ON

Mercier Orchards, founded in 1943, was one of the first apple farms in Georgia to grow, harvest and press their own hard cider and fruit wines.

They not only offer wine ($15) and cider ($12) flights from their own family-owned farm, they curate and serve samples from other producers. The farm offers U-pick options for blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and apples according to the season, with tractor tours to access the fields.

If you’re hungry, breakfast and lunch are offered at the cafe. Don’t leave without trying the apple cider doughnuts.

Learn more at mercier-orchards.com.

BELIEVE IN BIGFOOT

Expedition Bigfoot has 3,700 square feet of exhibits bent on proving the existence of the legendary Sasquatch, a hairy, giant, human-like creature that some say inhabits the forests of North America.

The museum is self-guided, so visitors can take their time in the life-size interactive displays or thoroughly explore information on Native American sittings. There’s also a gift shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

The operators claim this is North Georgia’s ‘biggest’ attraction, and we do think they mean Bigfoot’s size, which is estimated to range from 6 to 15 feet.

This museum seems humorous, but it’s run by believers who encourage anyone with a sighting of a Sasquatch to send an email or call. However, it’s open to everyone — even the skeptics. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children.

photo: visit Blue Ridge Ga Facebook

photo: brscenic.com

photo: visit Blue Ridge Ga Facebook

Active-duty military and children under 5 are free. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Learn more at expeditionbigfoot.com.

RIDE THE RAILS

Traveling 26 miles in four hours, this scenic tour has stops in the charming towns of McCaysville, Ga., and Copperhill, Tenn. There’s a two-hour layover in those cities.

In addition to the picturesque mountain towns, riders are treated to a trip through the foothills and by the Toccoa River. There are options for an outdoor ride, full of fresh air and views, or a premier experience with a small meal.

Inside coach options and handicapped options with a lift are available. They even rent the vintage caboose as a private experience for a group, complete with snacks and drinks.

Summer prices (through Sept. 17) are $56.99 (adults), $51.99 (senior, military, first responders, teacher), $37.99 (children 2 to 12). Visit brscenic.com.

CHILL OUT

The north Georgia mountains are a wonderful choice for families, couples or solo travelers. The cooler weather is a lovely escape from the heat and humidity of the Lowcountry.

Rent a pontoon, paddle board or kayak at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina or at Morganton Point Recreation Area. Go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. Or hike to the Swinging Bridge on the Toccoa River. The Toccoa River is a popular destination for tubing, canoeing, kayaking and rafting for kids of all ages, the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce said. Visit blueridgemountains.com.

Whether it’s the breathtaking beauty of raw nature or the calm of the mountain lifestyle, a vacation to Blue Ridge is a retreat that will leave you renewed.

photo: brscenic.com

photo: visit Blue Ridge Ga Facebook

LITERARY ARTISTRY

POETRY TRAIL OFFERS NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Think of Hilton Head’s Poetry Trail as an artistic treasure hunt.

It’s a clever search and discovery for local poetry talent and select visual artistry, amidst an island landscape.

Award-winning poet and island resident Elizabeth Robin, in partnership with Island Writers’ Network and the Office of Cultural Affairs, has curated a poetic lineup that gives the community a new way to experience the island.

“This is something I wanted to bring to people in different ways, to help them see how poetry can be enjoyed,” she says of the initiative that launched this spring. “I am hoping they find poems and poets along the trail that they like.”

Where to start?

First, find the map on Hilton Head Poetry Trail’s Facebook page and begin at any of the easy-to-find numbered sites.

A plaque will greet you with the words, “Pause for a moment: Enjoy a poem; meet a poet.”

There will be two printed QR codes: one with the poem plus bonus information about that poet, if available. The other code allows visitors to comment on the trail’s Facebook page about the poem, the art, or the business visited along the way.

Simply scan both to enjoy and learn. There are currently 18 stops, with six more in progress (as of early June). Several will be found alongside interesting sculptures, while others are placed at island restaurants and businesses.

Robin’s vision required some technical expertise and Bill Schmitt was a smart choice. An Arts Council of Hilton Head volunteer, and Island Writers’ Network

member, Schmitt has been a friend to the community for many years. He helped create the plaques and QR coding system for the trail, and through the Office of Cultural Affairs, he can track “traffic” through each site encounter. The Trail is currently averaging 40 “hits” per day. Each poem is harmoniously matched with its appointed location. An example is Elizabeth Abrams as the poet at the Sound Waves chimes sculpture (No. 3 on the Trail), with her poem, “Percussive Tides.”

Barry Dickson is the poet at the Jessamine sculpture (No. 13 on the Trail), where you’ll find an audio version of his poem, “At Tunkhannock Meadow.”

Robin makes a literary appearance on the Poetry Trail with “Harmonia” at Picture This Gallery (No. 5 on the Trail), and “Mislaid Glory” at the Poppies sculpture in Veterans Memorial Park (No. 11 on the Trail).

In 2021 Robin won the Carrie McCray Nickens Fellowship from the South Carolina Writers Association, and the John Edward Johnson Prize from The South Carolina Poetry Society. She has authored three books, including her most recent, “To My Dreamcatcher” which is her first full-length poetry collection.

“Making poetry (available to the) public really is a ‘win-win’ for everyone,” says Robin. “It gives poets the opportunity to have a new audience, and that audience can learn more about them.”

She hopes the community will recognize that poetry is very accessible.

“It’s something I wanted to bring to people in different ways to help people see that it can be enjoyed,” she said.

Story by Nina Greenplate | Photography by Sasha Sweeney

art league names biennale winners

Text Submitted

Art League of Hilton Head awarded 13 prizes at the awards reception of the 2023 Biennale, 28th National Juried Art Exhibition. More than $5,000 in cash prizes were awarded. One hundred artists from 25 states were accepted to participate from more than 600 entries, spanning 35 states.

2023 Biennale Award Winners:

First Prize: (prize amount $1,500)

Arena Shawn, Carrabelle, Fla.

“Requiem” (Oil)

Second Prize: (prize amount $1,000)

Christine Alfery, Lac du Flambeau, Wisc.

“Charting Pathways” (Acrylic, Watercolor Ink)

Third Prize: (prize amount $750)

Marilee Klosterman, Guilford, Ind.

“Just Another Workday” (Pastel)

Honorable Mentions: (prize amount $200)

Will Barnes, West Columbia, S.C.

“Farm, Clouds, and Moon” (Photography)

Larry Covalciuc, Council Bluffs, Iowa

“Black Sand Grassy Dunes, Iceland, CPA” (Photography)

Ray Hassard, Cincinnati, Ohio

“A Gallery in Chelsea” (Gouache on Panel)

June Klement, Evans, Ga.

“A Stroll Through Giverny” (Oil)

NancyJeanette Long, Loganville, Ga.

“I Think They Are Plotting Something” (Acrylic)

Devin Lovett, Augusta, Ga.

“Hephaestus” (Oil on Canvas)

Donna Nyzio, Palacios, Texas

“No Fuss and Feather” (Oil)

Linda Shepard, Marysville, Ohio

“The Bridge at Cypress Gardens” (Oil)

Sandra Teepen, Atlanta, Ga.

“Out of This World” (Quilted Fiber Art)

Yeqiang Wang, Topeka, Kansas

“Return to Classicism - The Milkmaid” (Oil on Canvas)

June Klement, Evans, Ga. “A Stroll Through Giverny” Oil

Marilee Klosterman, Guilford, Ind. “Just Another Workday” Pastel

Arena Shawn, Carrabelle, Fla. “Requiem” Oil

left top: Christine Alfery, Lac du Flambeau, Wisc. “Charting Pathways” Acrylic, Watercolor In

left: Yeqiang Wang, Topeka, Kansas “Return to Classicism - The Milkmaid” Oil on Canvas above: Ray Hassard, Cincinnati, Ohio “A Gallery in Chelsea” Gouache on Panel

tribute to the troops

SALUTE FROM THE SHORE

HONORS MILITARY

Written by Anthony Garzilli

An aerial Independence Day tradition continues this month as the annual Salute from the Shore flyover takes to the skies.

Since it began in 2010, Salute from the Shore has paid tribute to the U.S. armed forces with a series of flyovers each July 4. Salute from the Shore’s mission is to unite people in a “synchronized salute” to the troops. The flyovers stretch across the South Carolina coast, including Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

The festivities begin this year at 1 p.m. in Cherry Grove and conclude in Beaufort approximately an hour later. The route includes Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Isle of Palms, Charleston Harbor, Folly Beach and Edisto Island.

On Independence Day, in 2008, friends Johnny Folsom and Toddy Smith sat on the beach and discussed how they were enjoying family time while “young people of the military” defended the country overseas. They decided to establish the nonprofit Salute from the Shore.

The first Salute from the Shore was witnessed by hundreds of thousands of people, according to its website. The flyover – assisted by a C-17 from Charleston AFB – resulted in an “overwhelming” outpouring of personal messages and stories. which prompted the organizers to keep the event going.

“There’s just this reverence that takes over the entire beach,” said co-founder Jill Armbruster.

Salute from the Shore encourages audiences to get into the spirit of the celebration. On July 4 people are encouraged to get a huge flag (“Go Big!”) and head to the beach. Record your salute and share it via social media. Tag your photos and videos with the hashtag #SalutefromtheShore.

The event continues to have an impact.

“Seeing the crowds on the beach is an amazing experience; just to see the patriotism and everybody seeing the aircraft fly by,” said Col. John Robinson, commander of the 315th Airlift Wing out of Joint Base Charleston.

FOLLOW THE FLIGHT

The Salute from the Shore flyover will be at the following locations at these approximate times:

Photo courtesy of Salute from the Shore Instagram

TUESDAYS

HARBOURFEST AT SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA

benefits & entertainment

JULY 1

TOWN OF BLUFFTON 2ND ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION: Interactive games such as inflatable axes and score-abasketball-hoop available at Martin Family Park as well as a rock wall, bungee jump station and bounce houses. The fireworks display will begin around 9 p.m. and launch from a barge in the May River and can be viewed from Oyster Factory Park and Wright Family Park. 5

p.m.- 9 p.m.

Martin Family Park in Historic Bluffton, Boundary Street. 843-7064500 or townofbluffton.sc.gov.

JULY 4

USA 5K: Celebrate this holiday with a run-walk that helps benefit the Sea Turtle Patrol on Hilton Head Island. This is a fun, simple family-oriented experience for all ages and skill levels. The event is on a hard, flat beach surface with plenty of room

to run or walk with your family and friends. 7:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $35. Coligny Beach Park, 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island. runsignup.com.

JULY 4

FOURTH OF JULY STAR HUNT

SPECTACULAR: Kick off the holiday with a festive family-fun scavenger hunt for the whole family. Search for stars hidden around South Beach Marina, and redeem stars for All-

MAY RIVER SHRIMP FEST SUNSET 5K- HAWAIIAN SHIRT RUN:

JULY 19

The Sunset 5K- Hawaiian Shirt Run will open the May River Shrimp Fest weekend by taking walkers and runners through the streets of Old Towne Bluffton. Participants are encouraged to run in their best Hawaiian-themed shirts. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive shirts. All participants will receive a Hawaiianthemed event T-shirt, Hawaiian Lei, post-race refreshments and Kona Beer for those 21 and over. Sponsored by Bear Foot Sports. Tickets begin at $35 and can be purchased on active. com. Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 55 Wharf Street, Bluffton.

American treats and prizes. 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. The Salty Dog, South Beach, Hilton Head. 843-671-2233 or saltydog.com.

JULY 5

HURRICANE PARTY: Put your dancing shoes on and enjoy energetic music by CornBreD, who will be playing classic and modern rock and country. Also enjoy delicious Lowcountry cuisine and frozen cocktails overlooking the water. 6 p.m. Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar, 86 Helmsman Way, Palmetto Bay Marina, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-4950.

JULY 10-15

HILTON HEAD JAZZ CAMP: Designed for aspiring, intermediate- to-advanced music students 14- 20 years old who wish to improve their jazz skills with an immersive study in improvisation, theory, combos, masterclasses, big band and elective courses with a professional faculty visiting from all over the United States. Guest artists include Nicki Parrott (bassist/vocalist of the Les Paul Trio), Charlton Singleton (Grammy-winning trumpeter of Ranky Tanky), Mark Rapp (SC Ambassador of Jazz/Founder of ColaJazz), Aimee Nolte (Renowned Jazz Pianist/Vocalist), Ricardo Ochoa (jazz violinist of the award-winning band Velvet Caravan) and Tuffuss Zimbabwe (Pianist/Composer and Educator for the Saturday Night Live house band). All programs are hosted on the Hilton Head Christian Academy campus in Bluffton. Tuition begins at $449. Reserve space at hhjazzcamp.com. Hilton Head Christian Academy, 3088 Bluffton Parkway, Bluffton. hhjazzcamp.eventbrite.com.

JULY 20 & 21

MAY RIVER SHRIMP FESTIVAL/FESTIVAL NIGHTS AT OYSTER

FACTORY PARK: Enjoy the Sunset Party on Friday with live music by The Kelli Baker Band & Voodoo Soup. Enjoy seafood, beer, arts, crafts and shopping with local vendors. Kids 12 and under are free. Food and alcohol will be available for purchase. Tickets from $10- $60. 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Rain or shine. Low-profile lawn chairs and leashed pets are permitted. Cash-only event. Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. Purchase tickets online at eventbrite.com.

JULY 28

BURNT CHURCH DISTILLERY CONCERT SERIES: CHILLY WILLY

BAND: Every fourth Friday of each month outside on Square 67. Free and open to the public. Don’t forget to bring a chair. Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton.

all summer long

HARBOURFEST AT SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA: A weekly celebration with live music and entertainment, arts and crafts, kids’ activities and Tuesday Night Fireworks. Receive text alert updates: Text PD to 833428-2890. 1 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island. sheltercoveharbourfest.com.

Enjoy fireworks on Tuesday evenings through August. Fireworks begin when the sky is dark.

PERFORMANCES BY SHANNON TANNER: Two shows: 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through Aug. 25.

CAPPY THE CLOWN: Monday through Friday through Sept. 1 and Labor Day Weekend on Sept. 2-3. 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.

PARROT PALOOZA WITH SHANNON TANNER AND THE OYSTER REEFERS: Shows begin at 7 p.m. on Thursdays through Aug. 24 and on Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 2 and 3.

JULY 6, 13, 20, 27

MOVIE NIGHTS AT SHELTER COVE TOWNE CENTRE: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pillows and snacks to this family friendly event at the park. Free and open to the public. Rain or shine. 8:30 p.m. July 6: The Karate Kid; July 13: Finding Dory; July 20: Moana; July 27; Aladdin. Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. sheltercovetownecentre.com.

JULY 7, 14, 21 & 28

SUNSET CELEBRATION SUMMER CONCERT

SERIES: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pillows and snacks to this family friendly event at the park. Free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Local restaurants are located within a short walking distance to the park. 7 p.m.10 p.m.

July 7: Cranford & Friends; July 14: DeasGuyz; July 21: Target & The Headliner Horns; July 28: Deas-Guyz. Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. sheltercovetownecentre.com

meet ups and markets weekly

SUNDAYS

DEAS GUYZ AT THE JAZZ CORNER: Two shows nightly. 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Reservations highly recommended. The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com

MONDAYS THROUGH AUGUST

JULY 1

WANDERLUST MARKETS INDEPENDENCE DAY MARKETHILTON HEAD ISLAND: A wandering market with rotating vendors in one spot including Ring Stinger Pepper Co, Peace by Piece, A Sweeter Seat, Soul on Fire candles, Saltwater Hippie Company and more. Lincoln & South Brewing Company, 138 Island Drive, Hilton Head Island. Follow @Wanderlust Markets on Facebook for more information. 843-422-3992 or uscroach@gmail. com.

JULY 8

PALM TREES & PISTONS: Local car show every second Saturday of each month. Showcases local, vintage, antique, exotic, muscle and unique cars owned by locals. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sea Turtle Marketplace (Former Steinmart parking lot), 430 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island.

JULY 8

HISTORIC BLUFFTON FOUNDATION BOOK SIGNING: Joseph McGill Jr., and coauthor Herb Frazier will discuss “Sleeping with the Ancestors: How I Followed the Footprints of Slavery” at this public book signing. Copies of the book will be available for purchase in the Heyward House at 70 Boundary Street in Bluffton. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

JULY 15

CARS AND COFFEE: Cars and Coffee HHI is a meet up for car enthusiasts. All are welcome to attend the event held the third Saturday of each month. Free. 8 a.m.- 11 a.m. USCB Campus, 1 University Blvd, Bluffton. carsandcoffeehhi@gmail.com or carsandcoffeehhi.com

THE SEA TURTLE PATROL TALKS: Bring a chair and enjoy this family- friendly event presented by Director and Marine Biologist, Amber Kuehn, who will let you know how you can help protect this endangered species. Free and open to the public. 8 p.m.- 9 p.m. Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island. seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

MONDAYS

SHUCK IT TRIVIA AT BROTHER SHUCKERS BAR & GRILL: Best trivia on the Island. 6:30 p.m., 7 Greenwood Dr, #3, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-7000 or brothershuckershhi.com

MONDAYS SING INTO SUMMER: Join the Shore Notes women’s chorus on four Mondays: July 31, Aug. 7, Aug. 14 and Aug. 21. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Okatee Baptist Church, 5467 N. Okatie Hwy (Route 170), Ridgeland. 843-705-6852 or hiltonheadshorenotes.com

TUESDAYS

HILTON HEAD FARMERS MARKET: Visit our expanding list of regular vendors, plus a rotating schedule of food trucks and new arrivals. Find the freshest local produce, fresh eggs, pork, pasture-raised chicken, hand-made sausage, seafood and fresh, baked goods. 9 a.m.- 1p.m. Coastal Discovery Museum, Honey Horn Campus, 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island. Contact- Rex, Manager- 843-415-8500 or info@coastaldiscovery.org. coastaldiscovery.org

TUESDAYS

THE FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET: A local, charming festival featuring artisans, craft makers and fresh local foods including seafood, produce, breads and baked goods. 10 a.m. -2 p.m. The Shops at Sea Pines Center, 71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-363-5699 or theshopsatseapinescenter.com.

TUESDAYS

FAT TUESDAYS: A swinging celebration of New Orleans & Beyond: Two shows nightly. 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Reservations highly recommended. The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island. 843-8428620 or thejazzcorner.com

TUESDAYS

KAYAKING TOUR OF JARVIS CREEK: Meet at Jarvis Creek and kayak from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $40/Adult, $36/Child. Book online to reserve in advance. coastaldiscovery.org

WEDNESDAYS

FARMER’S MARKET AT THE FARM IN PALMETTO BLUFF: Lowcountry Made vendors include local artists, makers and artisans. Free and open to the public. 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Lcmade.com

WEDNESDAYS- JULY 5, 12, 19, 26

ROOT AND BLOOM MARKET: Join us at this weekly market supporting small business and featuring natural foods, organic produce, pastured meats, select artisans and natural wellness products. 3 p.m. -7 p.m. Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary Street, Bluffton. discoverrootandbloommarket.com

WEDNESDAYS

CLASSIC OPEN MIC NIGHT HOSTED BY WILL COOK: Featured artists every week. Beginning at 8 p.m. until late. Elements Restaurant and Lounge, 2 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island. 843-802-4942 or elementshhi. com

WEDNESDAYS

DOLPHIN & NATURE CRUISE: Meet at Broad Creek Marina for this family friendly cruise along Broad Creek and explore the waterways, salt marsh, dolphins and more. $30/Adult, $20/Child (ages 1-12). 3 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. coastaldiscovery.org

THURSDAYS

DUELING PIANO SHOW: The only Dueling Pianos Show on Hilton Head Island takes place each Thursday night on the Rooftop Bar. 8 p.m. -11 p.m. Poseidon, 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-341-3838 or therooftophhi.com

JULY 17

MELISSA VILLASENOR “NEW THINGS TOUR”: Melissa Villasenor became the first-ever Latina cast member of Saturday Night Live. She began her comedic expressions as a semi finalist on America’s Got Talent. Her most memorable impressions include Lady Gaga, Dolly Parton and Owen Wilson. Villasenor also headlined a sold-out cross-country show in 2021 and had a self-help journal published by Chronicle Books called, “Whoops…I’m Awesome.” The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina is looking forward to welcoming Villasenor for the NEW THINGS TOUR! Tickets are $63 and can be purchased online. Showtimes are 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island. 843-8422787 or artshhi.com.

THURSDAYS

CORNBRED AT BROTHERS SHUCKER’S: Enjoy live music beginning at 8:30 p.m. 7 Greenwood Dr, #3, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-7000 or brothershuckershhi.com

THURSDAYS

FARMERS MARKET OF BLUFFTON: Meet local farmers, chefs and artisans every Thursday on Boundary Street and purchase fresh strawberries, produce, beets, potatoes and more. 12 p.m. -5p.m., Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary Street, Bluffton. 843-4152337 or farmersmarketbluffton.org

THURSDAYS

EXPLORE PINCKNEY ISLAND: Meet at Pinckney Island to experience history and nature during a 1.5 mile guided tour of this diverse national wildlife refuge. $15/Adult, $7/Child

(ages 4-12). Book online in advance on coastaldiscovery.org.

FRIDAYS

SAVANNAH PORT CRUISE: Meet in Savannah and join this cruise to experience the nation’s largest port in action from the water. The Savannah Port has over 50 piers, wharves and docks. $65/Adult, $45/Child. 10 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Book in advance on coastaldiscovery.org.

FRIDAYS

BEGINNER SHAG LESSONS AND SOCIAL DANCING: The Hilton Head Island Carolina Shag Club hosts Friday night beginner lessons followed by social dancing. Dances are open to the public and include all styles of dance such as ballroom, wing, country or line dancing. Floor fee is $5. Lessons begin at 5 p.m. Christ

Lutheran Church, 829 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843363-6008 or hiltonheadshagclub.com.

SATURDAYS

HILTON HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET: A volunteer organized food event featuring local artisans and makers. 50 percent of all vendor fees received are donated to a local non-profit organization each month. 9 a.m. -12 p.m. 39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island. Follow @ hhicommunitymarket on Facebook.

SATURDAYS

LOUISE SPENCER AND RICK

RADCLIFF AT KIND OF BLUE: Vocalist Louise Spencer and pianist Rick Radcliff offer an evening of jazz and dancing. 5:45 p.m. -7 p.m. Call for reservations- 843-686-2868 or kindofbluehhisc.com

looking ahead

AUG 3, 10, 17

MOVIE NIGHTS AT SHELTER COVE TOWNE

CENTRE: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pillows and snacks to this family friendly event at the park. Free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Local restaurants are located within a short walking distance to the park. 8:30 p.m. Aug. 3- Beauty and the Beast, Aug. 10- Cars, Aug. 17- Remember the Titans. Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. sheltercovetownecentre.com

AUG 4, 11, 18

SUNSET CELEBRATION 2023 SUMMER

CONCERT SERIES: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pillows and snacks to this family friendly event at the park. Free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Local restaurants are located within a short walking distance to the park. 7 p.m.- 10 p.m.

AUG 13

PATTI LABELLE IN CONCERT: 7 p.m.- 11 p.m. Savannah Civic Center, 301 W Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah.

AUG 15

VOICES UNDER THE STARS: A Hilton Head Park Concert. Pack up your picnic basket and enjoy our beautiful singers and members of the Hilton Head Symphony as they team up for an unforgettable evening under the stars. Free and open to the public. In partnership with Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island. vivenu.com.

@gorilla.kickz_ga

703-772-6423

gorillakickz.com

Gorilla KICKZ Sneaker Store

The Fresh Market Shoppes

890 William Hilton Pkwy #33

May: Fri-Sun 11am-6pm

June & July Tue-Sun 11am-6pm

Jordans, Yeezys, & Dunks in All Sizes

TUESDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS

Photo: Twinkletoes

Photography