CH2/CB2 December Issue

CH2 CELEBRATE HILTON HEAD

BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) 15 Restaurants offering Winter Deals!

See Page 19 The Dove Street Lights Return to Shelter Cove Towne Centre Holiday Fashion by Luciana DECEMBER 2014

Singin’ in the Rain at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

100 IT’S OUR

TH

ISSUE

Featuring over 25 pages of nostalgia!

IN THE DOG HOUSE

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www.celebratehiltonhead.com

DECEMBER 2014

DECEMBER

2014

THE TEAM

(and what they want for Christmas)

Publisher Maggie Marie Washo

DITOR

FROM THE

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas. And also World Peace.

Art Director Catherine Anne Davies An Official Red Ryder, carbon action, 200 shot range model air rifle.

Contributing Art Director George Thomas Staebler I would like to have a functioning right hand.

Accounting Marion Elizabeth Bowser Vacation! And, a red corvette.

Managing Art Director Carolyn Hunter Kostylo An outer-space convertible too. Light blue.

Director of Sales Ashton Kelley Fons A shopping spree in NYC and Luke Bryan (of course).

Sales Executives Kim Conrad Crouch I want to have a happy, healthy family for Christmas. Oh, and a real magic eight ball!

Kaity Elizabeth Robinson I would like an all-inclusive, paid vacation to Jamaica. I would also like for all the rescue puppies in the world to get adopted.

“Just Kandace” Wightman A four cylinder Gibbs Quadski in yellow. And a boyfriend.

Bailey Marie Atkinson Another Mary-Kate and Ashley movie. And a puppy.

Research & Development Lucille Rosita Gonzalez Washo I want a Charcuterie assortment from Harry & David.

Chief of Security Greta Von Bowser I want to be Best Friends with Lucy for Christmas!!!

“The Media” Kitty Bartell, Brad Benjamin, Susan DeLano, Frank Dunne Jr., Rebecca Edwards, Andrea Gannon, Courtney Hampson, Courtney Hillis, Linda S. Hopkins, Laura Jacobi, Denise K. James, Barry Kaufman, Drew McLaughlin, Clayton Rollison, Lisa Sulka Stylist Kim Molloy

“The Paparazzi” Mark Staff Photography Photography by Anne Butch Hirsch, Vitor Lindo John Brackett, Jordan Sturm Krisztian Lonyai

Find Us HERE PO Box 22949 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 843.689.2658 m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com

I

f not for Randy Levine, I wouldn’t have known it was our hundredth issue. Randy is our tech support expert from Progressive Technology, and has been with us since the beginning of CH2. Before, really. We were talking about updates to the website a few months ago, and he casually remarked that December would be our hundredth issue.

“Oh, really?” I said, not giving it too much thought.

Then he brought it up again, a month or two later. Well shoot, I thought. Clearly he thinks it’s worth “celebrating,” so I had better get on the ball.

I asked Frank Dunne to write a fun retrospective about what’s gone on in the world and around our area for the last 100 months. Per usual, he was late and stressing me out as we approached deadline. I made a

quick phone call to harass him, and his words to me were, “Maggie, I really think that this article should make you cry.

It’s just not there yet. I need a few more days.”

Make me cry? What? It was just supposed to be a lighthearted romp through time, not War and Peace. I have to say that Mr. Dunne really outdid himself. I did cry, especially at the part about CH2 losing its father in 2009.

As a complement to his beautifully written piece, we are sharing 100 photos from 100 issues, which was fun for me to compile, and I hope will be enjoyable for you to peruse.

CH2 is sort of known for featuring talented photographers and their work, so I thought it was a fitting tribute.

Our whole team wishes you the happiest of holidays.

Thanks for letting us entertain you for 100 months.

XOXO

M. WASHO PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF

ARTICLE BY FRANK DUNNE, JR.

,l e l i S“ m

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100 issue th

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hundred magazines? That’s no big deal really. If you take a hundred copies of a magazine and stack them all nice and neat, they’ll fit in one box. So what’s all the fuss about?

Look at it this way. The inaugural issue of Celebrate Hilton Head magazine (CH2) dropped in September 2006. That’s eight years.

Not too long when you consider that we’ve got about a hundred years to live (if we’re lucky); but look at it in terms of what’s happened since then, and you get a very different picture.

There’s an article by DJ Rochester in that first issue about a game called iPod Wars. A girl in the picture holds one of those early iPod models that look more like a Sony Walkman—the thing that played cassette tapes—of yesteryear. Today it’s called the iPod Classic. You can still find a 160 GB iPod Classic (although not on Apple’s own web site) but why would you? It’ll cost almost $500, and the need to download and store digital tunes is largely DECEMBER 2014

supplanted by Spotify, Pandora and other online media players.

Unless you’re a very serious collector, downloading is pretty unnecessary for most folks, but when CH2 first hit the streets, it was all the rage.

Also in September 2006 Linda Hopkins spotlighted Island Digital Photo in “Capturing the Moment: Memory-Making Goes Digital.” Eight years ago the idea of photography transitioning from film to digital was interesting enough to write an article about it. Today the only camera you need is the one in your smartphone, unless you’re a professional shooter, but you get the picture.

A month later the second issue featured “Good-bye Pen Pal, Hello MySpace” by Adam Joskowicz, who introduced readers to a newfangled concept in online communications called…wait for it…social media. Whatever happened to MySpace? Lindsey www.celebratehiltonhead.com 17

Hawkins sort of explained three years later in her typically witty fashion with “Facebook: Stalking Your Way to a More Informed Future” (July 2009), which was part primer, part opinion piece about this curious new social media platform. Five years later, a world without social media in general and Facebook in particular is inconceivable. Five years ago we saw it as something with potential; now it’s indispensable. Some people think it’s scary.

Okay, that effectively beats the technology horse to death. The point is, a lot can happen in 100 months and a lot has happened in 100 months, around the globe, across the fruited plain, and here on our tiny island…wait a sec…I can hear shouts from across the Intracoastal Waterway. Yes Blufftonians, you count too, but “tiny island” just has a nice ring to it.

Anyway, when CH2 proposed an article to commemorate 100 issues and counting, I wasn’t sure how to go about it. A simple list of 100 things since September 2006 would not do, because CH2 is more than just a journal. This task…no…this privilege demands a better angle than that. So I dropped by CH2’s offices to pick up a back copy of the inaugural issue for inspiration.

It worked. Holding it in my hand helped me recall the day eight years ago when I picked the first issue off the racks on my way out of Harris Teeter on Main Street.

Thumbing through the curious little publication, I came upon a photo of a young woman sitting on the beach. It was CH2’s first “from the editor” letter explaining that CH2 is the evolution of CELEBRATION!, a smaller publication serving as a vehicle for the Lowrey Group’s Diamond Club loyalty program (No. Not Thee Diamond Club.). “Celebrate Hilton Head’s mission,” wrote the budding editor, “is to bring you interesting and affirmative stories about Hilton Head and the surrounding Lowcountry.”

Good luck with that, I thought. Will a market this small really support two

18

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local monthlies? I didn’t think so. I was also skeptical about the timing. Things were pretty good in the years leading up to 2006. Real estate and tourism were strong, everybody was working, Bluffton was growing, and there was a non-stop party going on from Park Plaza to “The Triangle” to Coligny Plaza and beyond.

You all know the next verse. A startup magazine is a risky proposition any time, but during a slowing economy in a small town market while publishing is supposed to be going digital? This guy wasn’t buying it. Obviously I didn’t think I’d be writing an article about CH2’s 100th issue eight years later, but I now know why. There was something I didn’t pick up on—something about the way that young woman sitting on the beach was looking at us. I’ll let you in on it shortly, because it has everything to do with why we’re making a fuss over 100 issues, but first let’s do some reminiscing, shall we?

Remember the “High Spirits” column?

The first one ever is “Five Drinks With…

Brian Raehm of Montego Bay” by Tommy Bastek. Good ol’ “Big Tommy.” One of those guys everybody knew. He was everywhere: in print, on the radio (did I just say radio?), wherever anything was happening, Tommy was there. The article is an interview with Brian Raehm of Target the Band and owner of the Montego Bay Night Club at the time. Raehm and Target are still around, but gone is Montego Bay along with most of the bigger music venues of the day: Monkey Business, Wingo Hall, Riders Lounge, and Shoreline Ballroom.

CH2 staked its claim on the music scene early with a cover story about the Fresh Hots by Jean Wharton in the second issue (October 2006) and a Zach Deputy profile by Craig Hysell the following month.

Those were the hot names around here in 2006 and CH2 has kept itself close to the music ever since, often with its signature sense of humor as when Lindsey Hawkins explored a rather strange juxtaposition

in “The Art of Being Two Faced: Silicone Sister vs. The Lowcountry Boil Band (July 2012). Some fresh blood called Cranford & Sons (with former Fresh Hots drummer Randy Rockalotta) emerged in 2011, and CH2 was right there to help them along with a feature story by Courtney Hampson in January 2012. Since then, the band has built a fiercely loyal local following, toured the country, changed drummer twice and released three studio records. They were featured again, as Cranford Hollow, in the November 2014 issue.

With three issues under its belt, CH2 began its first full calendar year in 2007, and it was a busy one for the young upstart magazine. In January, CH2 crowned its first Bachelor of the Year and in April attended its first Verizon Heritage, marking the event with the first of six Heritage related covers since. Little did we know then that four years later the tournament (now RBC Heritage) would face dire peril when Verizon dropped its title sponsorship in 2011. Pretty much everybody remembers that, but probably few folks under 50 years old know of the Heritage tournament’s other near demise unless they read Paul deVere’s “The Day the Verizon Heritage Didn’t Disappear,” in April 2009. deVere’s story takes place in 1987, when a series of bankruptcies and other business mishaps around town almost wrecked a lot more than just the tournament, then known as MCI Heritage Classic. In curating this article, it was one of the more enjoyable reads, especially the part about Sol Blatt staring down the PGA commissioner to save the day.

As 2007 rolled on, something became clear: this upstart was no “little engine that could.” CH2 meant business. It didn’t just accept, it grabbed the mantle as the bolder, edgier magazine in town, the life of the party, the girl every boy wants to dance with in the form of the printed page. And why not? It was published by a gaggle of 20-something women who worked and played well together. They mixed and

DECEMBER 2014

mingled with their readers and the subjects of CH2 stories, living the stories first then printing them later. Those of us who are dialed in to such things could not help but notice other older publications imitating CH2, and it wasn’t even a year old.

Still, something wasn’t quite right. CH2 didn’t look like CH2.

It strived for extraordinary, but looked ordinary. Something had to change, so the editorial team did something naughty; they looked to Playboy magazine for a solution. The November 2007 issue unveiled the now familiar brash layouts, modish—at times, in your face—photography, illustrations and color palettes, and the CH2 masthead. Former Playboy art director Tom Staebler directed the makeover and has a hand in the magazine’s appearance to this day.

In 2008 Hilton Head Island celebrated its 25th birthday. Not as an island of course, but as an incorporated township, and the first installment of Paul deVere’s series “A Town is Born” appeared in the February issue. In that series, deVere recounts the events of the late 1970s and early 1980s that brought about the necessity, and the wheeling and dealing that made it happen. It was likely the first time a lot of CH2 readers learned how close we came to being known for oil rigs and chemical plants instead of beaches and golf courses. Five years later, local movers and shakers had the bright idea to jointly commemorate the Town of Hilton Head Island’s 30th birthday and the 350th anniversary of our island’s sighting by Capt. William Hilton. It turned into a weeklong, islandwide celebration called Hilton Head 350/30. Naturally you could read all about it in CH2’s October 2013 edition.

Try to visit a body of water around here without seeing folks stand up paddle surfing, or SUP. Heck, they’re even practicing yoga on those darned things. Today it feels like SUP has been around as long as kayaks, but it was only as long ago as June 2008 when Whitney Farmer profiled Glen Barroncini, upon whom she bestowed the title: Hilton Head’s Pioneer Stand Up Paddle Surfer, in “Paddle Surfing: A New Way to Catch a Wave,” to introduce this new sport sweeping the nation…and Hilton Head Island. In September 2008, CH2 celebrated its second birthday by sharing a quirky and humorous (is there any other way?) peek into the magazine’s inner workings, “How to Make a Magazine in 3 Easy Steps,” penned by the publisher/editorin-chief herself, Maggie Washo. Another monumental milestone came a month later when Yours Truly’s byline appeared in CH2’s pages for the first time above a piece about the The Brick Oven Café. Somewhat ironically, “The Brick” is where I enjoyed my first dining experience as a local way, way back in 2000. One place. Two beginnings. Funny how things work out that way sometimes.

As we celebrate the 100th edition of a magazine about celebrating, we’d like it to be all about fun and games. But we know that life doesn’t always work that way, no matter how we try to make it so. Sometimes we have to celebrate something that we don’t want to celebrate. Sometimes we have to celebrate a person’s life before we’re ready. In October of 2009, Hilton Head Island lost a beloved and highly respected business community icon and CH2 lost its “father” when Pierce Lowrey passed away. Also that month, CH2 published a rare themed issue, CH2’s Special Comedy Issue. A tragic irony you might think until you read “Tsunamis,” Maggie’s heartfelt tribute to her mentor, published in December 2009. “Every so often he would ask me, ‘Are you still happy? Are you having fun?’” she wrote. “To Pierce, that couldn’t have been more important…” No, it wasn’t ironic at all that an issue meant to make you laugh came out that month. Funny how things work out that way sometimes.

And that, my friends, brings us full circle to the earlier question about how a guy who didn’t believe is now writing a 20

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DECEMBER 2014

100th issue story about CH2’s 100th issue. On the surface, CH2 is everything a local monthly ought to be: It helps people start or revitalize businesses and careers through advertising and articles. It shows us where to go to eat, drink and be merry, and where to buy stuff. It honors outstanding individuals who make a community worth celebrating. It entertains and gives us advice.

It provides jobs for staff members and all the other folks who help get the magazine into readers’ hands. It opens doors for freelance writers, photographers and artists. It’s an archive, a time capsule, of our lives on Hilton Head Island.

CH2 is all that, but its real magic is in the way it came to us just when we needed somebody to give us a smile. Remember, it was 2006 and things weren’t so rosy around here. Shrinking waves of tourists, shops, offices and restaurants closing their doors, a weakening real estate market, even dwindling Heritage galleries cast a shadow over an island that jumped around like a four-year-old on a sugar buzz just a few years earlier. Now it felt more like a nervous adult worrying about the future.

In the middle of all that along came this playful little magazine, and Maggie Washo sat down on the beach, calm, cool and confident, looked us all in the eye and said, “Relax people. We’ll get through this. Smile, laugh, be happy and have fun. There’s still plenty to celebrate about Hilton Head. Come along with me and I’ll show you that it’s true.”

And then…she did.

Merry Christmas everyone.

DECEMBER 2014

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MAGGIE WASHO

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C2 FASHION 12·2014 E L E G A N T P L AY F U L M O D E R N

Jon Josef Paris shoes in Black and Champagne Lace - $168 Sandra Roberts Clutch in Gunmetal – $148 Frank Lyman Gown - $295 Roberto Coin 18K gold Doublet Rose Quartz Earrings with Diamond - $4200 Roberto Coin 18K Gold Cocktail Ring with Mother of Pearl & Amethyst - $4900 (Clothing from The Back Door Jewelry from Forsythe Jewelers)

Eva Franco Oliver Dress - $395 (Luciana) Patent Clutch - $98 (Luciana) Jeffrey Campbell Lorah Nude Shoes - $205 (Porcupine) Deco Michelle Watch in 18K Gold with 16mm Gold Metallic Strap - $945 Marco Bicego 18K Gold Bangle with Medium Beads - $1310 Marco Bicego 18K Gold Bangle with Large Beads - $1580 Marco Bicego 18K Gold Bangle with Small Beads - $1200 Roberto Coin 18K Gold Ring with Pink Sapphires & Diamonds - $7340 (All Jewelry from Forsythe Jewelers)

Weston Wear Reversible Skirt & Mesh Top - $464 (Porcupine) Moore & Moore Bolero - $198 (Porcupine) Brian Atwood Licata Shoes - $350 (Porcupine) David Yurman 18K Gold Cable Wrap Black Hexagon Necklace with Diamonds - $3500 David Yurman 18K Potpourri Necklace - $2950 David Yurman Sterling Silver Cable Classic Bangle - $2400 David Yurman Sterling Silver Midnight Mélange Bangle - $2700 David Yurman 18k Gold Thoroughbred Bracelet - $1750 (All Jewelry from Forsythe Jewelers)

m

KIM MOLLOY, STYLIST EXTRAORDINAIRE FOR CH2/CB2 MAGAZINE

“Don’t stress over what to wear this holiday season. Our island is full of so many wonderful choices in all price ranges. Can’t afford a whole new outfit? Remember that one new fabulous accessory such as jewelry, shoes or a jacket can totally change a look, and always add a pop of color somewhere to make it fun.”

COASTAL MUST:

PONCHO Available at Coastal Bliss - $48

Add a bright poncho to your outfit for just the right pop of color and warmth. This lightweight cover looks great dressed up or down!

Recipe

Article By Clayton Rollison

H O L I D AY E G G N O G

C

hristmas holiday season is finally here, and that means different things to different people, e.g. caroling, lights on the fire houses, family, presents, mistletoe, fruit cake, long lines, bad sweaters (I personally have my own hideous collection that I love) and eggnog in a carton. I’m not going to look down my nose at grocery store eggnog, but it’s not the real McCoy. It is usually loaded with food gums, fake sugar and who knows what else. The thick yellow goop/stuff/substance/GMO-engineered liquid in the carton is much sweeter and thicker than a drinkable egg flip cocktail.

A “flip” is a cocktail that contains a whole egg to add a creamy light texture; cream is optional in flips. Eggnog is a flip.

It takes a little effort to make from scratch, but it is worth it.

A raw egg is not going to kill you. Go to the farmers market and buy some wonderful fresh local eggs. Not only will you buy something safe from a local community member, but you get to brag about it too: Your cocktails will now be “farm to glass”!

The kind of rum and brandy has a significant effect on the quality of this cocktail. We like Germain-Robin Craft Method for brandy and Angostura 7 Year for rum at Lucky Rooster. The recipe is easy to follow: RECIPE 1 ounce Angostura 7 Year (or another dark/ spiced rum) 3/4 ounce Germain-Robin Brandy (brandy or Apple Jack) 1 ounce heavy cream 1/2 ounce demerara syrup (to make demerara syrup use two parts sugar in the raw to one part warm water to dissolve the sugar) 1 whole farm fresh egg for each cocktail Nutmeg to garnish METHOD Combine rum, brandy, heavy cream, demerara syrup, and the whole egg in a shaker and then shake for about 10 seconds.

This is called a dry shake, used to aerate egg cocktails, leaving a silky smooth texture. (Be careful when you dry shake; the pressure in your shaker tends to push the shaker tins apart. Most bartenders have had a little egg on their face when learning to do this correctly!) Open the shaker, add ice and shake again to cool down and dilute the cocktail to the correct booze, mixer, and water ratio—about 8-10 more seconds of shaking. Strain out the cocktail and garnish with fresh nutmeg.

If this all sounds a little complicated, you can watch someone on YouTube demonstrate how to dry shake. Once you get it down, you will spice up your holiday party for sure. If you are still freaked out by a raw fresh egg, go to the boxed egg nog. It’s okay. Monsanto needs money too.

Clayton Rollison is the chef/owner of Lucky Rooster Restaurant in South Island Square.

NEW

J

ish

KID IN TOWN

ava Burrito Co. is a family-owned and operated Mexican Grill & Coffee Bar on Hilton Head Island. The business has only been around since 2013, yet the family history in the restaurant industry goes back over 100 years! Java Burrito uses the finest ingredients and traditional methods to create the most exceptional products. The Burrito Bar and Coffee Bar sources organic and local food when in season.

They never use artificial ingredients, preservatives, growth hormones or antibiotics.

Java Burrito Co.’s philosophy promotes positive change within the sustainable farming initiative, supporting farms and individuals with like standards. Delicious. Fresh.

Goodness.

Located in the Village at Wexford. Call 843.842.5282 or visit www.javaburritoco.com for more information.

M A Y O R

Hilton Head Island > Mayor <

A Note from Drew Laughlin

NEW PROJECTS, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

I

would like to update you on several exciting town projects that are underway or have recently been completed. We are very proud to open, this month, a beautiful new park on Skull Creek that provides water access for non-motorized water craft (kayaks, rowing, sailing, paddle boarding, wind surfing, etc.), as well as fishing and crabbing. The Rowing and Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park, located on the site of the old seafood co-op at 133 Squire Pope Road, cost just under $1.2 million to construct. This park includes parking areas, restrooms, a picnic pavilion, playground, fire pit, swings, benches, and two fenced, gravel storage areas, along with a fixed timber pier, aluminum gangway, and floating dock. You may contact the Island Recreation Center for information on the water craft programs they will run out of this facility.

Another beautiful waterfront park opening this winter is the new Shelter Cove Community Park. It replaces the former park and will contain the same amenities and Lowcountry style, but with an added performance pavilion. This project is being funded and constructed by the mall developer as part of a development agreement.

As part of our ever-expanding pathway network, we have recently completed construction of two new pathways along Pembroke and Gardner Drives. This adds another mile and a half of pathways, which connect several mid-island residential and commercial developments to the Leg O Mutton Road and William Hilton Parkway pathways. In January,

< Bluffton Mayor

STORMWATER EDUCATION IN OUR COMMUNITY

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ach year in October, our local citizens and others come together at the annual Historic Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival in Old Town. The festival is a week-long event that offers a myriad of activities and showcases our locally harvested seafood, delicious Lowcountry cuisine, and our rich history and culture that revolves around our waterways, especially the May River.

The event highlights all of the reasons that we need to continue our best efforts to protect this most valuable natural resource.

That’s why Town Council celebrated the week of October DECEMBER 2014

M AY O R

15 as “Water Quality Awareness Week” in Bluffton. A town proclamation was created to encourage our local citizens to take action and conserve our local waterways and shorelines. In addition, this proclamation highlighted the town’s continuing efforts to educate our students and citizens regarding these resources.

The Town of Bluffton’s Stormwater Management Division provides a variety of public education offerings throughout our community, from civic groups to school groups. The benefits of these efforts cannot be understated and are a key component of proper stormwater management.

For example, town staff recently conducted a fifth grade field trip for M.C. Riley students. Students learned about the May River Watershed, stormwater runoff, and some of the tools used to measure water quality.

Students also visited with Bluffton Oyster Company staff to learn about the company’s long local history and how they harvest seafood from the May River. Students were generous enough to write thank you notes which said, “Thank you for helping us to understand [that] we have to help you,” and “[to] the Oyster Company, I thank you workers…thanks to you, I have food to eat.”

Staff also recently partnered with other nonprofit organizations to host over one hundred Red Cedar second graders. These partners included The Lowcountry Institute, The County Channel, Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling, Master Naturalist & Oldfield Naturalist volunteers, and the Bluffton Oyster Company. Six environmental stations were created, and students learned about the water cycle, local flora and fauna, recycling, stormwater, the Oyster Factory, and the May River.

Classroom education programs like these play an integral role in our town’s stormwater pollution outreach program. Providing stormwater education through schools conveys the message not only to students, but

construction will begin on a new pathway along eastbound William Hilton Parkway (US 278 Business), from the new traffic signal at Leamington to Shelter Cove Lane. It will connect to a new pathway in front of the mall that was privately funded and constructed as part of a development agreement, totaling another mile and a half of new pathways to be finished this spring.

We have just rehabilitated six town roads (Oak Park Drive, Electric Avenue, Mingo Way, Cooperative Way, Thompson Street, and Power Alley) in the Mathews Drive, Chaplin area to provide proper pavement and drainage infrastructure as well as much needed onstreet parking. In January, we will begin construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of Mathews Drive and Marshland Road, a project designed to enhance traffic conveyance and public safety.

Both of these projects are funded with Tax Increment Financing (TIF), a very rewarding program that allows the town to take tax money that may have been spent elsewhere in the county and devote it to providing new and enhanced infrastructure within the TIF district here on Hilton Head Island.

to their parents as well. It opens the door for the child to become the teacher and often generates curiosity in the parent.

If you are a parent, school group, or civic group and you wish to learn more about the programs the town’s Stormwater Management Division offers, please contact stormwater technician Beth Lewis.

Beth can be reached throughout the week at (843) 706-4559 or blewis@ townofbluffton.com. www.celebratehiltonhead.com 53

SHOP [and} DINE local T H I S

H O L I D AY

S E A S O N

THE AVERAGE AMERICAN WILL SPEND JUST SHY OF $1000 ON CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR OTHERS.

AS A SMALL BUSINESS, CH2 THINKS IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP THAT MONEY IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITYDESPITE THE POPULARITY OF ONLINE SHOPPING. HECK, GOING STORE-TO-STORE AND CHECKING OUT EVERYONE’S FESTIVE DECORATIONS CAN BE HALF THE FUN.

THERE ARE MANY OPTIONS WHEN IT COMES TO SPENDING YOUR HARD-EARNED CASH FOR THE HOLIDAYS. IN THE PAGES THAT FOLLOW, WE PRESENT A DIRECTORY OF LOCALLY-OWNED SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS THAT APPRECIATE YOUR PATRONAGE DURING THIS FESTIVE TIME OF YEAR!

CQ’S RESTAU R ANT 140-A Lighthouse Rd, Harbour Town in Sea Pines (843) 671-2779 www.CQsRestaurant.com HOURS: 5-9PM Seven Days a Week!

Owners: Bonnie Lowrey Established in 1973 About the Proprietor/Store: CQ’s is a quaint and cozy restaurant tucked beneath the oaks in Harbour Town. It was the first building and the first restaurant in Harbour Town and has been an island favorite since 1973. CQ’s is rich with history of the island and serves impeccable food with gracious service. The comfy casual atmosphere puts everyone at ease and visitors to the island say it is one of “those places” that they make sure to revisit every time they are on Hilton Head Island.

This restaurant specializes in: American cuisine using the best of local ingredients.

Interesting Fun Fact: Many people swear CQ’s is haunted by the ghost of the Blue Lady. Patrons and employees over the years have commented on feeling a presence of a spirit. A few years back a group of ghost hunters came to test the building to see if they could determine any paranormal activity...and they said YES. Signature Cocktail: The Blue Lady

O LD FO RT P U B 65 Skull Creek Drive, Hilton Head Plantation (843) 681-2386 www.OldFortPub.com HOURS: 5-9PM Seven Days a Week!

Owners: Bonnie Lowrey Established in 1973 About the Proprietor/Store: Old Fort Pub has been a local gem and an island tradition since 1973. This waterfront restaurant delights guests with it’s amazing sunsets and delicious award winning cuisine. For 13 years Old Fort Pub has been awarded 4 Diamonds with AAA and Open Table named OFP as one of the Top 100 Scenic Restaurants.

This restaurant specializes in: American Cuisine with a contemporary Lowcountry twist.

Interesting Fun Fact: Sits adjacent to the Civil War Battery Fort Mitchell hence the name Old Fort Pub. Signature Dish: Bouillabaisse Signature Cocktail: Pomegranate Cocktail. Stirrings Pomegranate Liqueur, Absolut Vodka, Sweet & Sour, Sugar Rim

S H E LT E R C O V E H A R B O U R & M A R I N A

S

helter Cove Harbour & Marina has been a premier destination for unique shopping and dining experiences for nearly 30 years. This Hilton Head Island landmark, home to Neptune’s Statue, the world’s largest figurative sundial, attracts thousands of locals and visitors each year. The Harbour is also home to six restaurants, each with their own personality, outdoor seating and spectacular menus. This waterfront shopping district features over 15 boutique shops offering men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, services, jewelry, fine art, coastal wear and more. No matter who you are shopping for on your list, Shelter Cove Harbour shops offer something special.

APPAREL/JEWELRY/GIFTS Camp Hilton Head Christmas on the Harbour Neptune’s Niche Seasons Taffeta Tradewinds Trinkets and Treasures Treasure Island

DINING Bistro 17 ELA’s Blu Water Grille Frosty’s Italian Ices and More La Fontana Waterside Grill & Pizzeria Mediterranean Harbour Bar & Grill San Miguel’s Mexican Café Scott’s Fish Market

FINE ART/SPECIALTY La Belle Image NASH Gallery

SERVICES Legacy Design Photographers Salon Shelter Cove Harbourside Yacht Sales

SERVICES CONT. Shelter Cove General Store Dunes Real Estate Group BOATS/TOURS/CRUISES Ship’s Store & Marina Office Outside Hilton Head

One Harbourside Lane · (843) 686-9098 · www.palmettodunes.com/sheltercove

Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since

1850

CHELLA D 841 William Hilton Parkway Suite D (843) 341-3999 Find us on Facebook!

DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 11AM-5PM Owners: Donna Sist/ Carol Sprague Years in Business: 5 About the Proprietor/Store: Chella D is a unique store because it’s a beautiful, fun place where a stranger can walk through the doors and leave making a friend or two. We offer unique women’s clothing and accessories from all over the world. With years of wardrobing experience, let Carol and Donna create your special look from head to toe.

PORT ER & PIG 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Village at Wexford Suite J7C (843) 816-1863 www.porter-pig.com GRAND OPENING: Dec. 31st Owner: Ivy Burdick About the Restaurant: A craft draft and bottle gastropub, Porter & Pig will specialize in providing local, regional and exceptional quality craft beers, proprietary cocktails and select wines by the glass with accompanying well-paired charcuterie, cheeses and uniquely crafted share plates inspired from seasonal and exceptional quality ingredients.

For exploratory connoisseurs to inquiring novices, Porter & Pig will provide the ideal location for locals and vacationers to sample the best craft beer with an emphasis on quality selections. Please join us to enjoy a warm atmosphere, exceptional service, inspired drinks and well-paired share plates.

We provide: Superior quality drinks and fare with unparalleled service in an upscale environment Holiday Specials: NYE PARTY & GRAND OPENING DECEMBER 31ST!

The word “Mistletoe” literally means “Dung Twig”

During the Christmas/ Hanukkah season, more than 1.76 billion candy canes will be made.

ISLAND BAGEL CO. HHI: 841 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. (S. Island Sq.) (843) 686-3353 Bluffton: Sheridan Park (near Sonic) (843) 815-5300 www.islandbagelanddeli.com DECEMBER HOURS: 7AM- 2PM 7 Days a Week Owner: Mark Stone Years in Business: 5 The restaurant specializes in: Fresh New York style boiled bagels made from scratch every morning and real turkey breast fresh roasted in house and shredded by hand like pulled pork to bring out wonderful flavor.

Interesting Fun Fact: Antonio, the Bagel Maestro, is in at 3am cooking the bagels.

Okay, not so fun for him but he has been doing it for 18 years.

Signature Dishes: For breakfast it is the Low Country; ham, bacon or sausage with egg and cheese on a toasted bagel of your choice.

For lunch it is the our favorite sandwich; hot turkey, bacon, provolone cheese, avocado spread, cream cheese with lettuce, tomato and onion on a toasted hoagie roll.

LU X ~ A M E D I CAL S PA 350 Fording Island Road, Suite 101 (843) 757-3223 (FACE) www.luxhhi.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Thursday: 8AM-6PM Friday: 8AM-4PM; Saturday: 9AM-12PM Owners: Proudly owned by Frederick G. Weniger, MD of Weniger Plastic Surgery, and Carmen A. Traywick, MD of May River Dermatology, LLC. Years in Business: Open in April 2014 About the Proprietor/Store: Frederick G. Weniger, MD and Carmen A. Traywick, MD recognized a need in the Lowcountry for a premier state of-the-art facility for patients. By blending together the most advanced medical practices in the area, the practice of LUX was created for patients to feel comfortable, safe, and luxurious as they receive the most experienced medical care and highest level of customer service. The mission of LUX~A Medical is to be the premier choice for medical aesthetics and skin enrichment services such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser hair removal, wrinkle reduction, and sun spot reduction. “Experience Matters. We Get Results.”

This store specializes in: As your premier medical spa in the Lowcountry, we make it possible to have and maintain a more youthful appearance with the use of clinical procedures, spa treatments, and medical skin care. This combination allows us to provide you with the ultimate anti-aging experience in Bluffton, Hilton Head, & surrounding areas. Provider Susan Coker, PA-C, truly believes, “Patient satisfaction begins with a true understanding of the patient’s needs.” At LUX~A Medical Spa, we strive to help rejuvenate your skin through the luxurious union of medicine and beauty.

It’s flying off the shelves! Popular items this year…CoolSculpting, Laser Resurfacing, Broad Band Light treatments, and our Medical Skin Care!

Trendy Lines or Brands we carry: Latisse, Clarisonic, Jane Iredale, ZO Skin Health, Obagi Medical products, SkinMedica, Colorscience, EltaMD Sunscreens.

Thank CH2 by mentioning this article for 15% off any aesthetic service. Limited Restrictions.

BLU FFTON OYST ER CO. 27 Dr. Mellinchamp Drive, #108 (843) 757-0380 www.blufftonoyster.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 11Am-9PM Owners: The Toomer Family Years in Business: Open since 1990

T

he smell of fresh, steamed seafood fills the salty air. Shrimp and crabs, oysters and fish, fresh from local area waters, caught by the Toomer family, who have been in the seafood business locally for over 100 years. Larry and Tina Toomer own and operate the Toomer Family Seafood House Restaurant, where daughter Jessica manages a team that serves the best fresh seafood in the Lowcountry. Featured in Southern Living magazine, the restaurant has become a culinary center of town for homestyle seafood and fixings, where locals eat often. The Toomers also manage the Bluffton Oyster Company, at the end of Wharf Street, in Old Town Bluffton, where fresh, seafood is sold in large and small quantities. The oyster factory, on the banks of the May River, is the last hand-shucked oyster cannery in operation in the state. The Toomers are also famous for catering large and small events for groups and families.

From Lowcountry boil, to oyster roasts to barbecue, the Toomers can prepare and serve delicious food for any party or function. This is Lowcountry dining and feasting done with style, heart and flavor.

The two biggest selling Christmas songs are “White Christmas” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

960 William Hilton Parkway (843) 785-3848 www.thegreeneryinc.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8:30AM-5PM Saturday: 9AM-4:30PM; Sunday: 10AM-4:30PM Owners: Employee Owned. Lee Edwards, CEO Jamie Harrison, Manager of Garden Center, Lisa Kiggans, Manager of Antiques & Garden Collectibles at The Greenery Years in Business: 41 This store specializes in: Nativity Scenes, Mercury Glass Ornaments, Aunt Sadies Candles, Unique Santas and Reindeer.

The garden center specializes in: An outstanding selection of Christmas trees, poinsettias, violas & pansies, & Christmas cactus that can be delivered directly to your home.

Holiday Special Events: Ladies Night Out: wreath, swag and bow making demonstrations with fun refreshments.

December 3rd from 6-8PM. There will be a $15 fee.

Please RSVP by calling 843-785-3848

10

NOW THRU DECEMBER 24, 2014

$

off

any purchase of $50 or more

Good in the Garden Center and the Antique Shop.

Can not be used in combination with any other current Greenery discount including SCETV member offer or Welcome Mat. Must bring coupon with you at time of purchase to receive discount.

LOU ETT E BOUT IQU E

Santa Claus has different names in different countries: Sheng Dan Lao Ren in China, Father Christmas in England, Papa Noel in Brazil and Peru, and Pere Noel in France.

T H E G R E E N E RY G A R D E N C E N T E R & ANT IQU ES & GARDEN COLLECT IBLES

The Village Exchange Shopping Center 32 Palmetto Bay Road, Suite 9 A (843) 686-4141 www.louetteboutique.com www.louettelifestyle.com DECEMBER HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 11:30AM-6PM Saturday 11:30AM - 2:30PM Owner: Heather Quinn Years in Business: 2 This store specializes in: Women’s Clothing, Loungewear, Unique Home Accents and Baby Gifts It’s flying off the shelves! Popular items this year... Boot Cuffs, Local Designer Jewelry, Kantha Quilts and Bamboo Cotton Trendy Lines or Brands we carry: AG Jeans, Lilla P, Rifle Paper Co., Hobo, Barr-Co, Elizabeth W and Mistral Soap.

Holiday Special Events: The Village Exchange Holiday Open House on December 11th, 4-8PM. **Coctails, Hors d’oeuvres, Holiday Shopping Specials, Raffle and More!

G I F T E D H I LT O N H E A D 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite J2 in Village of Wexford (843) 842-8787 DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday 10AM-6PM Owner: Meredith Taylor Years in Business: Since 2011 About the Proprietor/Store: A Pittsburgh tradition since 1985, Gifted opened here on Hilton Head in 2011, and quickly became an island favorite winning Best Gift Shop in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Meredith Taylor, the owner, strives to find the perfect assortment of high quality gifts at reasonable prices making Gifted a true “one stop shop” for any gift needs. Hostess gift, baby gift, manly gift, wedding gift and of course the perfect Christmas gift — they’re all at Gifted. Plus, the Gifted sales associates are super friendly and helpful, and gorgeous gift wrap is always complimentary.

Trendy Lines or Brands we carry: Alex and Ani Bracelets, Thymes Frasier Fir Candles, Local Lowcountry Linens, Spartina Handbags and Jewelry, Nora Fleming Serveware, Rewined Candles, and The Giving Keys Necklaces.

T HE PORCU PINE The Village at Wexford, 1000 William Hilton Parkway (843) 785-2779 www.porcupinestyle.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 10AM-6PM Owner: Avis Rollison Years in Business: 39

About the Proprietor/Store: There is a reason why Avis Rollison has been the fashion authority of Hilton Head Island for almost 40 years.

She continuously shops, selects what women want, and brings the best of the fashion capital of America and touches of Europe back to the island. The selections have always been an eclectic mix of exclusive designers and rising stars. She and her team have created a large closet of hand-selected wares, clothing, shoes, evening wear, jewelry, jeans, handbags and gifts. Your style, trendy or classic, the best fabrics from Loro Piana to the current items from the allAmerican icons, Tory Burch to the distinctive prints from Etro, are only at The Porcupine.

Through the years, Rollison has developed close relationships with her customers and with many designers. If you cannot find what you’re looking for, Rollison will go the extra mile, beyond her doors if needed. The Porcupine customizes evening and social occasion

wear and facilitates special showings with manufacturers who accommodate petites and fuller sizes—one of the many reasons the store has such a loyal customer base.

Sophisticated, flirty, bohemian, comfort—whatever your calling— you will find it at The Porcupine or they will find it for you.

Rollison’s philosophy is that the way you look is your story.

After all, “Taking joy in life is a woman’s best cosmetic,” she said, quoting actress Rosalind Russell.

Come put on your style and enjoy the day. The Porcupine has the expertise to make that happen.

This store specializes in: Women’s clothing, jeans, dresses, evening wear, jewelry, shoes and handbags.

Popular items this year: Tory Burch, ponchos, booties, trend tops, comfort shoes.

Trend lines or brands carried: Tory Burch, Milly, Stuart Weitzman, Wilt, Alice and Olivia, Luchesse, Armani Collezioni, Sarri, Edelman Holiday sales or special open house dates and times: Jewelry Feast, December 17-19—special “flown” in from designers, Renee Sheppard, Love Heals and Rebecca Lankford.

COLIGNY PLAZA 1 N. Forest Beach Drive (843) 842-6050 www.colignyplaza.com Owner: The Richardson Family Years in Business: 60 About the Proprietor/Store: “To feel the warmth of Christmas, you have to walk into some of our 60 shops and feel the merchandise. Then you find the gift that someone on your list will love to receive. That’s how you Christmas shop!”

- Leslie Richardson

KNICKERS 149L Lighthouse Rd (843) 671-2291 DECEMBER HOURS: 9:30AM-5PM Owner: Jack & Joan Shea Years in Business: Opened in 1971 About the Proprietor/Store: For over 40 years, Knickers has outfitted gentlemen of all ages in casual Southern Style. Now owned by Jack and Joan Shea — owners of Nell’s Harbour Shop, another Harbour Town landmark — the store looks better than ever. All the finest and trendiest brands are here in a wide variety of tasteful colors and styles. And we provide the attentive and friendly service you’d expect in beautiful Harbour Town. All year long Knickers features a wide variety of tasteful colors and styles. If you haven’t visited us in a while, stop in over this holiday season and experience the new Knickers.

Store specializes in: Casual men’s wear and accessories for young and old.

Popular item: Tommy Bahama reversible quarter zip sweaters; Vineyard Vines and Southern Tide 1/4 zips, tees and polos.

Trendy lines or brands carried: Vineyard Vines, Southern Tide, Peter Millar, Sperry, Tommy Bahama and Johnnie-o.

You’ll find it all here! Millions of visitors make Coligny part of their family tradition. With over 60 shops and restaurants, there is truly something for everyone!

Holiday sales or open house dates and times: Christmas at Coligny Dec 12th and 13th 4-8 p.m. Outdoor movie starts at 6 p.m. $1000 Christmas cash giveaway. Find us on facebook for details.

THE BACK DOOR The Shops at Sea Pines Center 71 Lighthouse Road (843) 671-3677 Years in Business: 27

About the Proprietor/Store: From the whimsical window dressings and one-of-a-kind accessories, to the shoes, the smiles and the cashmere wraps, island fashionista Joni Rosser creates an entirely unforgettable Back Door experience. It’s almost like you wandered into your cool, best friend’s closet - and just like Christmas - get to pick out each and every stylish delight. And with Joni’s eye – and eventually you’ll call her friend - it all comes together ‘just so.’ It’s really quite hard to describe. For 28 years The Back Door has been the go-to for islanders and visitors for special dresses for extra-special occasions, comfortable, totally chic work wear, wraps of every sort, eye-popping earrings, vintage jewelry, beautiful bags, wonderful white blouses and, of course, shoes. Joni will select the pieces for you, she’ll ship just so you can see, she’ll call when that unique something that only suits you comes in, and she’ll even tell you “No,” if necessary. Listen to her. And for the holidays, many a wandering island man has staggered into the store on Christmas Eve only to be met

by Joni with a chill glass and a warm smile. In about 30 minutes, he happily departs with the perfect loving package in hand, all tied up nice with a bow. Ahhh. So The Back Door has you comfortably covered for where-did-you-get-that piece of clothing you won’t see anywhere else. But in case you didn’t catch the drift, The Back Door is about more than the what’s hanging on the racks. It’s the perfect combination of smarts, style, so-who-really-cares and merchandising magic. It just works.

The store specializes in: Unique clothing and interesting accessories for a casual lifestyle up to special occasions.

It’s flying off the shelves! Popular items this year: Cashmere Ponchos Holiday Sales or Special Open Houses: December 3rd, 5:30-7:30pm, The Annual Holiday Wine Stroll to benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital

REILLEY’S GRILL & BAR 7D Greenwood Drive (843) 842-4414 95 Matthews Drive (843) 681-4153 www.reilleyshiltonhead.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 11:30-2AM Sunday: 11-2AM Owners: The Reilley Family Years in Business: 32

About the Store: Reilley’s Grill and Bar has been serving up a delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head for over 30 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance Reilley’s is reminiscent of a true Boston Pub. Dine indoors or out, where convertable walls open to what is arguably the best outdoor patio in town. Top notch technology ensures you won’t miss the big game whether you’re sipping cocktails at happy hour, enjoying our nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life at champagne Sunday brunch.

SIGLERS

Holiday Sales: BOGO Lunch Special and $10 off $50

12 Sheridan Park Circle (843) 815-5030 www.SiglersBluffton.com DECEMBER HOURS: Monday-Saturday 4:30-9:30PM Owners: Michael and Shirley Sigler Years in Business: 18 About the Store: Sigler’s Rotisserie and Seafood open since 1996 remains fresh and focused on its customers. Chef Michael and Shirley Sigler, along with long time Chef Todd Elliott, are committed to being the best restaurant in the Low Country. Quality ingredients and unique preparations have long been Sigler’s award- winning trademark. Excellent service provided by a loyal staff tops the list for Sigler’s ability to please guests time and time again. Viewed from an open kitchen, offerings include a $21.95 three course “Early Dining Menu” Tuesday through Saturday, 4:30p-5:45p, and all evening on Mondays. Catering for either large formal affairs or small intimate gatherings is a Sigler’s specialty. Whether in the private dining room (seating 58) located off of the main restaurant or at your location Sigler’s is perfect for business meetings and family gatherings.

Fun Fact: Long standing staff totaling 128 years! Our staff makes the difference.

Signature Dish: Prince Edward Island mussels and prime rib.

SAGE ROOM 81 Pope Avenue #13 (843) 785-5352 www.thesageroom.com DECEMBER HOURS: Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Call for Reservations Owners: Matt and Carol Jording Years in Business: 12 About the Store: Matt Jording, chef and owner of Sage Room, was born in Omaha, Neb., and grew up in Fairfax, Virg. He moved to Hilton Head in 1995 and worked at local restaurants until he opened Sage Room in March of 2002.

He built his kitchen in the middle of the restaurant with a ten seat chef’s countering surrounding it. The chef’s counter has proven to be the most popular and memorable place in the restaurant. From prep to plate, everything is done in this open kitchen for all to see.

WOODY’S SU NGLASS SHOP 28 Shelter Cove Ln, Unit 118 (843) 842-8700 DECEMBER HOURS: Mon-Sat: 10AM-5:30PM; Closed Sunday Owners: Woody and Sharon Laidiq Years in Business: Opened June 2014 About the Proprietor: Sharon and Woody are from Augusta, GA. They had been dreaming about moving to Hilton Head

since 2009. While on vacation with their best friends in Costa Rica, they started a bucket list about things they wanted to do. Their #1 was to open a sunglasses shop on Hilton Head Island! They lost their best friend to a battle with cancer in Jan. 2013, but before he passed away he made them promise to accomplish their #1 task on the bucket list. Shortly later Woody’s Sunglass Shop was born.

The common abbreviation of Christmas to "Xmas" is derived from the Greek alphabet. "Chi," the first letter of Christ's name in the Greek alphabet, is written as "X."

BOMBOR AS GRILLE 101 Pope Avenue, Coligny Plaza (843) 689-2662 www.BomborasGrille.com DECEMBER HOURS: Lunch: 11:30-4PM Dinner: 4-9ish; Happy Hour: 4-7PM Everyday Owners: Rocky & Ginny Whitehead, Todd & Stacey Romoser Years in Business: 4 About the Proprietor/Store: The Whitehead’s own and operate the award winning Bomboras Grille, the Art Cafe (a paint your own pottery studio), and HHI Jet Pack.

Bomboras Grille cuisine is best described as low country with a modern twist. They offer a unique social dinning experience with their low country inspired social plates, large plates, sliders and more. Check out both their delicious lunch and dinner menus.

Bomboras Grille offers the Bottoms Up Beer machine and has one of the low countries best Beer and Bourbon menus. They offer a large selection of locally brewed drafts and celebrate happy hour from 4-7pm, seven days a week. Enjoy, 1/2 off premium Whiskey Wednesdays and $4 River Dog drafts for Thirsty Thursdays! This holiday season, bring your friends and family because at Bomboras even “THE LOCALS FEEL LIKE THEIR ON VACATION”!

J AVA B U R R I T O C O .

1000 William Hilton Pkwy., Suite J6 (843) 842-5285 www.javaburriotco.com DECEMBER HOURS: Mon.-Sat.: 7:30AM-9PM; Closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1-4 Owners: Michael Fekete About the Store: Java Burrito Co. is a familyowned and operated Mexican Grill & Coffee Bar in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

We use the finest ingredients and traditional methods to produce the most exceptional products.

Our Burrito Bar and Coffee Bar sources organic and local food when in season.

We never use artificial preservatives and absolutely no growth hormones or antibiotics.

Our philosophy promotes positive change within the sustainable farming initiative, supporting farms and individuals with like standards.

This restaurant specializes in: Fresh farm to table burritos, tacos, bowls and salads. Locally roasted coffee and specialty espresso drinks.

Signature Cocktail: Fresh squeezed Margaritas and Mexican Coca-Cola!

LJ JBANKS RETAIL 35 N Main Street (843) 682-1745 www.jbanksdesgin.com DECEMBER HOURS: Mon.-Fri: 10AM-6PM and Sat: 10AM-4PM Owner: Joni Vanderslice Years in Business: 28 years of J Banks Design; 6 years of J Banks Retail

L I G A T O ’ S F I N E J E W E L RY 80 Baylor Dr, Ste 106 (843) 757-8865 www.ligatosfinejewelry.com DECEMBER HOURS: Open Mondays Dec. 15th and Dec. 22nd. Open Christmas Eve Dec. 24th Owners: Clifford Ligato Years in Business: 35 About the Store: Ligato Jewelers was founded in 1979 by Bill Ligato in Westwood, New Jersey. My father was a Master Watch Maker with over 50 years’ experience. I was working for my father learning the watch trade (Horology) when my family purchased their first store. We did not need two watch makers, we needed a jeweler. That is when my jewelry career began. I studied at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in New York City in basic jewelry repair, basic stone setting, appraisals, practical gemology, gem identification and diamond grading. I put my skills to work for about five years. Then, I went to the Holland School for Jewelers in Selma, Alabama. There I studied closely with a Master Jeweler named Homer Holland and studied advanced jewelry repair, advanced stone setting, jewelry making, casting and model making. Thus, earning the recognition of Master Jeweler on August 5, 1988.

Ligato’s Fine Jewelry has been creating and selling quality jewelry for over 35 years. All our work is done on premises.

“HI, I’M CLIFF LIGATO AND I WANT TO BE YOUR JEWELER!” The store specializes in: Loose diamonds and custom design.

About the Store: Often times our interior design clients wanted to maintain their connection with us long after their homes were decorated. They also needed a place to buy additional lifestyle items such as linens, flatware and tabletop. This realization played

a large role in the decision to open the J Banks Retail store.

With our project travels, we were also falling in love with the amazing decorative accessories and gifts we would find in marketplaces around the world. We realized that there was an opportunity to give our community access to a worldwide market by bringing in specialty products that they may not have access to otherwise.

Special Holiday Events: The Green Gator Trunk Show – Vintage Alligator & Crocodile Handbags, Clutches & Luggage; Dec. 4 & 5th; 10am-6pm

THE DOVE STREET

Lights Return EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC AGAIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYN CORTES

T T

he Dove Street Festival of Lights™, a Hilton Head Island Christmas tradition for 20 years, is coming back to life at Shelter Cove Towne Centre. “We have collaborated with the founders of the original Dove Street Festival of Lights to recreate the magic of this cherished holiday event for our community,” Centre director Roni Allbritton said.

One of the key differences at the Shelter Cove Towne Centre location will be the opportunity to get closer to the exhibit. “The ability to park your car and gather under the canopy of lights will make the Dove Street Festival of Lights an even more magical experience,” Allbritton said. “The Centre merchants that are currently open are very excited about the festival and will be participating to make this experience one that all can enjoy.”

Dove Street Festival of Lights founders Paul and Kristi Beckler and Rob Lolik explained that the quaint neighborhood festival simply outgrew its Dove Street location. What began with two strings of lights and a Santa hat become one of the most visited attractions on Hilton Head Island. Over the years, islanders contributed more than $100,000 in cash and 40,000 cans of food to needy families, as well as 20,000 presents for kids. Twenty thousand picture postcards were passed out to contributors. Radio Free Dove Street broadcast a fun message nightly, church and school groups added musical performances and an assortment of characters, including Frosty and Santa, roamed the street every night to welcome thousands of visitors. The exhibit ended on a high note in 2010 and has been dark since.

“Everyone was sorry to see the lights go out, and we were approached several times by people and organizations who wanted to move the festival to an alternate location,” Paul Beckler said. “But none of the locations made sense.

When we heard about Shelter Cove Towne Centre’s vision for the project—the store fronts representing Dove Street homes, Towne Centre Drive as the focal point—we were instantly intrigued. The fact that people will be able to get out of their cars, enjoy the lights to their hearts’ content, and share the experience collectively as a community is a dream come true. We now believe that the Dove Street Festival of Lights legacy will live on and continue to grow in ways we never dreamed possible.”

Presented by The Merchants of Shelter Cove Towne Centre, the Dove Street Festival of Lights will run from December 1, 2014 through January 4, 2015 and will be open to the public nightly from 6-10 p.m. Visitors can gain entrance to the Dove Street Festival of Lights via both the Kroger and Belk sides of the Towne Centre.

As the town park is completed next year and the light display grows with each year,” Allbritton said, “we believe the Dove Street Festival of Lights at Shelter Cove Towne Centre will become a premier holiday attraction for our community.”

The Deep Well Project, the holiday festival’s longstanding beneficiary, will be joined this year by PEP (Programs for Exceptional People), accepting donations onsite.

For daily events and performance updates, please visit sheltercovetownecentre.com.

A R T I C L E B Y S U S AN DELANO

P H OTO G R A P H Y Makeup: Salon Karma

Hair: Shawn Black / Mirrar Salon

BY

K R I S Z T I A N

L O N YA I

Models: Quinn Waldrop, Katie Byrum and Preston Hix / Presence Models

luci ana

All Fashion Available at Luciana: 37 New Orleans Rd, Suite C 843.686.5620 lucianafashion.com

THE

GIFT GUIDE

For The Ladies

AGELESS BEAUTY IN A BOTTLE SAPPHIRES & LEATHER Gabor Embossed Leather Riding Boots $435 Sapphire Necklace by Roberta Sher Designs $565 Palmettoes in Sea Pines Center

TORY BURCH BAGS Ferrara Lace $225 Jessica Clutch $395 The Porcupine in the Village at Wexford

Pevonia International Skin Care Products and Facial Services Gift Certificates available for the discerning woman on your list.

Arum Spa at the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

THE HANDBAG Ceri Hoover Hadley Crossbody Designed in Nashville and constructed in Brooklyn. $196 Louette Boutique

HOLIDAY ADORNMENT Stunning Statement Bracelet $285 Patriciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the Village at Wexford

THE

GIFT GUIDE

For The Ladies

CANINE LOVER PJ’s, Pillow Cases, Sleep Shirts and Slippers by “Sleeps with Dogs” $28-$48 Planet Hilton Head in Harbour Town

FOR THE FUNKY GIRL Blue Glitter/Black $225 OGI 4307 Spex Optical in The Fresh Market Shoppes

OHHMAZING WELLNESS

HOBO CHIC Cassie Crossbody Bag

by Hobo International Assorted for $148 each Radiance Boutique in Harbour Town

A book featuring 31 ohhmazing women from across the world sharing their stories of empowerment through integrative wellness. $16.95 www.amazon.com

THE GIFT OF LUXURY STYLE FROM THE STARS Jacket by St. John $85 Red Shoes by Feragamo $67 Chella D in South Island Square

FOR THE FASHIONABLE FURRY Nautical Sunflower Collar $29 and Matching Leash $30 (not shown) Tailwiggles in the Village at Wexford

DRESS IT UP Black Hunter Dress $155 Leather/elastic Belt $25 Luciana on New Orleans Rd.

NAUTICAL Kiel James Patrick Pearl Bracelet $68 Skull Creek General Store.

Eyelash extensions give you fuller, longer, and darker eyelashes, without the need of mascara.

Faces Lash Studio in the Village at Wexford

BRIGHTLY COLORED PAIRS Jacket by Grace Chuang $298 Scarf by Sacchi $158 The Back Door in Sea Pines Center

THE RING 14k Yellow Gold with Emerald cut Tanzanite Stones Top Dollar Pawn

THE VEST

STUNNING LOCKS

Kuhl Flight Vest $149 Outside Hilton Head in Shelter Cove Plaza

Aveda products to s mooth and shine. $21-$26 The Hair Designers at Wexford

BAGS BY GIGI Assorted colors and sizes $102-$125 Copper Penny in Shelter Cove Towne Centre

CREATIVITY Give the gift of inspiration with Shabby Chic paint classes at Revival Design & Décor. It is truly the gift that keeps on giving. $75 Revival Design and Décor on Arrow Road

THE

GIFT GUIDE

For The Ladies

THE SURFER BIC 11’ Wing $1,199 Outside Hilton Head in Shelter Cove Plaza

THE COLLECTION METALSMITHS Sterling from the Panos Konidas Collection.

Inspired by the beauty of European cities. bringing old world class with modern sophistication. Exquisite detail creates texture reminiscent of the architecture that forms the foundation of the great cities of the world while elegant lines pull the collection into modern style.

Heritage Fine Jewelry

THE PALATE Limited Edition Smoke & Mirrors Smoky Eye Kit from Jane Iredale. Comes with a guide that provides step-by-step instructions created by makeup artists to help you to create a smoky eye for any occasion. $50 Lux~ A Medical Spa

FOR THE GOLFER Ecco Women’s Golf Shoes in white and purple.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Shop in Palmetto Dunes

THE

GIFT GUIDE

For The Ladies

ARM CANDY Spartina 449 Push Lock Satchel Fashionably boxy and showing some moxie. $179 Spartina 449 Flagship Store in Old Town Bluffton

INITIAL IT Single initial 14kt Gold Fill $65 Get them personalized for additional $10 Coastal Bliss in The Fresh Market Shoppes

LIFT.TONE.BURN

Pure Barre by Splits59 Hydra Pullover $78 Pure Barre by Splits 59 Erid Tight $95 Pure Barre Tervis $32 Pure Barre Sticky Socks $15 Pure Barre Hilton Head in Shelter Cove Towne Centre

THE

GIFT GUIDE

For The Ladies

ANCHORS AWAY Handmade from recycled sailboat sails & featuring a map of Hilton Head Island $140 Coastal Provisions

IN THE SUN NEW Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anti-bacterial, moisture wicking polo in either a waffle pattern or tonal woven stripe with embroidered logo. Both shirts offer UV protection and block 93% of harmful UV rays. $40.

The Salty Dog T-Shirt Store

A BAG FOR EVERYONE Assorted genuine leather goods from ILI New York.

All made in the USA. $11-$126 Seasons in Shelter Cove Harbour

HORSE LOVERS Lawton Stables Long-Sleeve Shirt $20 Lawton Stables in Sea Pines Plantation

C THIS IS NOT A HEALTHY EXAM PLE C

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Article by Courtney Hillis

T

he holidays are here! It is the season for giving, celebrating, sharing time with friends and family, and, for many people, overindulging. Parties, family gatherings, and an abundance of sweet treats make it easy to partake in a few too many indulgences over the holidays causing the need for healthy resolutions come the New Year. However, it is easy to break this cycle and still have fun this holiday season. From healthy alternatives for traditional holiday treats and cocktails to ways to stay active during the holiday rush, this is your guide to a healthier holiday season!

As a certified health coach the beginning of the year is filled with clients wanting to get back on track, detox and lose the holiday weight. However, the easiest thing to do is to get ahead of the curve. You can enjoy the holidays without binging on sugar, alcohol and other temptations that stress the body and leave you feeling sluggish.

Attitude is the most important thing. Stay positive! Do not beat yourself up when you have a treat. It is important to allow yourself some indulgence. The trick is not overindulging. Here are some great tips for healthier eating throughout the holidays: Be aware of your food sources. As always try to buy fresh, local, organic ingredients. Shop the farmers market. Whole Foods Market Hilton Head has vegan roast options, Hunter Cattle Grass-fed beef and organic turkeys. Scotts Market on May River Road in Bluffton has all-natural turkeys from Tanglewood Farm and grass-fed beef from Joyce Farms. Place your orders early.

Bring your own food. Bring a healthy side dish (try mashed cauliflower instead of traditional mashed potatoes) or an alternative sweet treat to the holiday gathering (mix pitted dates and unsweetened coconut flakes in a food processor until combined and beginning to form large clumps; then form the mixture into quarter-sized balls.

This makes delicious, bite-sized, healthier sweet treats that even kids love.)

Snack before you go. Munch on some veggies and hummus or another healthy snack before heading out for the evening. Snacking on a wholesome appetizer before a party helps reduce unwanted nibbling during the gathering and sets the tone for

ALSO NOT A HEALTHY EXAM PLE

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the night in regard to food. It helps your body gravitate towards healthier items while providing you with some fuel in case there are not many nutritious snacks at the celebration.

Keep healthy snacks at work. Avoid sugary temptations at the office by stocking your area with healthy snacks like trail mix, veggies and hummus, apples, pears, etc.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and during holiday events. Proper hydration will reduce snacking and help prevent hangovers.

Get plenty of Vitamin D. Speak with you doctor or healthcare provider about options for getting enough Vitamin D during the winter months. Fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures reduce exposure to Vitamin D-filled sunshine.

Sufficient amounts of Vitamin D can boost the immune system and help fight the holiday blues.

Opt for drinks and cocktails with less sugar. Enjoy vodka with club soda or cranberry juice with club soda instead of champagne or eggnog. Cranberries and cranberry juice keep it festive.

Enjoy holiday superfoods. Holiday superfoods that are delicious, festive and, of course, good for you, include sweet potatoes with no added sugar, pomegranates, cranberries, nuts and pumpkin.

In addition to nutrition, it is also important to stay active during the cooler holiday months. Some tips to keep you active: Get the whole family involved. Go on family hikes. Play a game of touch football or basketball. Change it up and keep it fun.

Take advantage of the Lowcountry. We are blessed to live in a place with a warmer climate, beaches and so many nature and bike trails. Hit the sand on one of the warmer days for a jog or family walk. There are also countless trail options and parks, from Sea Pines to Pinckney Island to the Bluffton Nature Trails.

Try yoga. It’s indoors, warm and relieves stress—a perfect combination for the holidays.

Carve out time. In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it is easy to skip gym time. Make sure to set aside time to be active.

It is the simplest way to make certain it gets done. On days you find yourself too busy, squeeze in simple exercises such as squats and lunges.

Eating right and staying active will actually make the holidays more enjoyable. Think about it! No more holiday sugar crashes, headaches and hangovers. Look good, feel great and be happy throughout this holiday season, and next year’s resolutions can be about your shopping addiction instead of your holiday food indulgences.

Happy and healthy holidays!

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DECEMBER 2014

TIM SINGLETON, PROPRIETOR, SITS IN THE BAR OF RUBY LEE’S, WHICH WAS NAMED AFTER HIS GRANDMOTHER.

y b Ru

s ’ e e L HEART + SOUL + SPORTS

ARTICLE BY FRANK DUNNE, JR. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN BRACKETT

¨AS THE NAME IMPLIES, THE FARE AT RUBY LEE’S IS SOUL FOOD, ALL OF IT PREPARED SEVEN DAYS A WEEK BY DEBORAH AND MARTIN GOVAN.

¨RUBY LEE’S SPORTS, BLUES & SOUL FOOD IS LOCATED OFF THE BEATEN PATH ON OLD WILD HORSE ROAD.

T

he problem with conventional wisdom is that it can be too conventional and often not necessarily wise. The bigger problem is that too often it convinces us to not try something, not take a chance, and we’re left wondering what might have been if we’d thrown conventional wisdom to the wind and followed our inspiration.

Case in point: Ruby Lee’s Sports, Blues & Soul Food. Conventional wisdom might suggest that its location on Old Wild Horse Road is too off-the-beatenpath. Conventional wisdom might also suggest that a group of folks with no experience in the hospitality industry cannot succeed in the restaurant business. If that were so, what would conventional wisdom have to say about Ruby Lee’s blasting its way into year number three in business?

“If you know what people want, and you want to give quality service, and you understand roles, anything can work,” said Ruby Lee’s owner Tim Singleton. The suggestion being that there are people out there who want exceptionally great food, great music and a place to dance to it, a spot to gather and watch the game, a well-stocked bar, and an atmosphere that feels more like a neighborhood house party with all your friends and less like a commercial establishment. Do you know anyone like that? In other words, build the kind of place you would want to go to, put the right people in the 94

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right roles, work hard, and you can kick conventional wisdom out the door.

There is another ingredient to the Ruby Lee’s formula, however.

Ruby Lee’s is a family business, and you should never underestimate the power that intangible element can have on a business’s success, particularly a hospitality business where excellent service means everything. The Ruby Lee’s family is Singleton, his parents Deborah and Martin Govan and his little sister Tressa Govan. I should say, the Ruby Lee’s family related by blood, because when chatting with Anna, Star and Romina, the three young ladies on staff the evening of my visit, all had something to say about the pervading homey, family mood at Ruby Lee’s for employees and customers alike.

There is, of course, another family member involved, albeit in a more spiritual way. When entering the establishment, you will encounter her in the form of a silhouette on the door. It’s one of those old fashioned, haunting kind of portraits—haunting in a good way. It makes you feel the person in the portrait is present, watching over things. “In fact, we named it after my mother,” Deborah said. Of course she is referring to the late family matriarch, Ruby Lee. “People see that silhouette on the door, and they come in and think it’s me. They pull out cameras and ask for autographs! I’m truly honored because my mother was a powerful little lady. She kept her family close-knit.

Her children, her grandchildren, her great grandchildren.” (That is, six children, 30 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.) “She was hands-on with every one of us, and she prepared all the meals.”

Listening to Deborah share stories about Sunday dinners, holiday meals and parties at Ruby Lee’s house, you’d get the sense that Ruby Lee took it upon herself to look after the entire neighborhood. And you’d also start to understand that, although they had no prior direct experience operating a restaurant, feeding and entertaining large groups of people comes naturally DECEMBER 2014

¨CANDACE WOODSON AND THE DOMINO THEORY BAND ENTERTAIN

¨THE SEAFOOD PLATTER FEATURING FRIED FISH, SHRIMP AND A CRAB

A LIVELY CROWD ON A BUSY TUESDAY EVENING IN NOVEMBER.

CAKE WITH FRENCH FRIES AND COLE SLAW.

¨LIVE MUSIC HAPPENS EVERY NIGHT AT RUBY LEE’S WITH REGULAR PERFORMANCES BY LAVON STEVENS, TARGET THE BAND, DEAS-GUYZ AND STERLIN AND SHUVETTE.

¨TRESSA GOVAN to the Ruby Lee’s folks. “I believe that Ruby Lee’s has that same atmosphere,” Deborah added. “Our menu, we made it based on what my mom fed us.”

As the name implies, the fare at Ruby Lee’s is soul food, all of it prepared seven days a week by Martin and Deborah. I left my choice up to Martin’s discretion and out came a plate of oxtails over rice with sides of collard greens and mac and cheese. Oddly enough, I’d been introduced to oxtails a few weeks earlier, but I won’t say where because they don’t even compare to Ruby Lee’s. Fall-off-the-bone tender, melt-in-yourmouth delicious is all I need to say. Well, that and I was tempted to order a second round.

My friend Doc, who was my dinner guest on this evening, went with the fried pork chop. I should mention that Doc makes a mean fried pork chop herself, and I often campaign for an invitation to dinner. I’ll probably get in trouble for this, but Ruby Lee’s fried pork chop gives “Doc Chops” more than a run for the money. Deborah insisted that we have the collard greens. “Best on the island,” she assured us, and we could not disagree. As for the mac and cheese, I’ve never really been a fan, not even in college. I am now.

Some of Ruby’s favorites include a three-piece fried chicken plate, Ruby’s Platter (four crab balls, five wings and fried okra), shrimp and grits, and a DECEMBER 2014

rib-eye steak with two vegetables. Also very popular are the trio rice bowl with shrimp, sausage and chicken and the dirty rice bowl with ground beef.

Everything is delicious, satisfying and served in ample portions, to put it mildly. Don’t worry about that though, because you’re going to want to stay and dance the calories away.

There’s live music every night at Ruby Lee’s with “all the Hilton Head greats,” as Singleton describes the lineup of performers: Lavon Stevens, Target the Band, Sterlin and Schuvette, Deas-Guyz to name a few. “I’m trying to recreate the atmosphere we had on Hilton Head years ago with places like the Golden Rose,” he said. On this night, we were treated to rhythm & blues classics by Candace Woodson and the Domino Theory Band, and even had a chance to chat with Woodson, a tiny lady with a huge voice and an awesome band behind her. Even she echoed the staff’s sentiments about the friendly, family atmosphere. “It’s why I love playing here,” she said.

If you’re thinking, aw, everybody says they have a family atmosphere and all that stuff, I say think again. This was my first visit to Ruby Lee’s and I believe I’m the last of my circle of friends to have tried it. So I’d heard all the hype. I tried to go in objectively, but objectivity went out the window with conventional wisdom in a hurry. I left feeling like I’d made a new friend.

Believe it. This place is for real. Get there. Ruby Lee is waiting for you.

“I feel her spirit is here day after day because the atmosphere—people coming together no matter what our color, shape, size, age. People are people, and that’s how she treated everybody,” Deborah said. “I wish the entire world could be like Ruby Lee’s. And that’s from my heart.”

Ruby Lee’s Sports, Blues & Soul Food is located at 46 Old Wild Horse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926. For more information, call (843) 681-7829 or visit RubyLees.com or Facebook.com/RubyLeesSportsBluesSoulFood. www.celebratehiltonhead.com 95

BL UF

FTON ARTICLE BY LAURA JACOBI

T

hanksgiving is gone as quickly as it came, and it’s on to a weekend of football. But after all the big rivalry games have been played, Blufftonians soon turn their attention to a different form of competition—one with fun, floats, candy and costumes—The Bluffton Christmas Parade.

As is the tradition, the Bluffton Christmas Parade will take place on the first Saturday of December, which is Dec. 6.

The parade starts at 10 a.m. this year, a little earlier than years past. Bumped up by one hour in 2013 so the Bluffton High School Bobcats could travel to the football state championship game, according to Town of Bluffton’s special events coordinator Julie Taylor, the timing of the parade and clean-up worked out so well, they decided to keep the same schedule this year.

This parade is known around town as the unofficial kick-off of the holiday season. Families and friends from every corner of

DECEMBER 2014

Bluffton (and beyond) gather on the streets of Old Town to eat, drink and be merry. Blufftonians are always in search of a reason to get together in mass, and the parade is no exception. Sidewalks, parking lots and front lawns will be piled with people, young and young at heart, all munching on holiday goodies and discussing their holiday plans.

Babbie Guscio, who organized the parade for 15 years before the Town of Bluffton began managing it, said, “The parade has become a tradition looked forward to each year. It’s a time for people to gather and watch the fun that unfolds.”

According to Guscio, the event started in 1970 by another Blufftonian and was “an innocent affair in the beginning.” These days, the parade features between 150 and 200 entries, from churches to local businesses to groups of friends who just want to have a blast marching through the streets.

THIS PARADE IS KNOWN AROUND TOWN AS THE UNOFFICIAL KICK-OFF OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON. FAMILIES AND FRIENDS FROM EVERY CORNER OF BLUFFTON (AND BEYOND) GATHER ON THE STREETS OF OLD TOWN TO EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY. www.celebratehiltonhead.com 97

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¨ THE PARADE HAS BECOME A TRADITION LOOKED FORWARD TO EACH YEAR. IT’S A TIME FOR PEOPLE TO GATHER AND WATCH THE FUN THAT UNFOLDS. THE PARADE ENTRIES ARE A GREAT EXAMPLE OF THE UNIQUE SPIRIT OF BLUFFTON, WITH SURPRISES EVERY YEAR.

¨

One of Guscio’s favorite entries was the “Bluffton Baby Brigade” she organized one year, in which dads joined the parade pushing their babies in strollers. Another crowd favorite is the “Drill Team,” which features women clutching power drills.

The parade entries are a great example of the unique spirit of Bluffton, with surprises every year. Even Santa Claus makes a special appearance at the end of the parade, riding a fire truck so that his reindeer can rest up for the big night.

“Bluffton is lucky to have an event where most of its residents gather every year and celebrate their collective eclectic personality,” Taylor said.

Parade entrants can begin setting up at 7:30 a.m. The parade will start at Pritchard and Bridge streets and end at Red Cedar Street. The entire parade usually lasts about two and a half hours and will happen rain or shine. During the morning’s preparation and parade time, various roads will be closed, including May River Road from Buck Island Road to Bluffton Road and Pin Oak Street from May River Road to Oscar Frazier Park.

According to public information officer, Debbie Szpanka, the roads around the parade route are closed in a “rolling closure” pattern to maximize safety while minimizing the effects on traffic flow.

“It takes the logistical coordination of an airport traffic control tower. However, when you see everyone having fun as a community, it’s worth all the spreadsheets, e-mails and meetings,” Taylor said.

To join the fun in this year’s parade, click on the application at townofbluffton.sc.gov, located on the right-hand side of the homepage. Parade participation is free, however, the town requests that entrants donate canned goods at Town Hall this year. The food will help fill the shelves of local charities and food banks in January and February.

DECEMBER 2014

HOW TO:

ENJOY YOUR

FAMILY THIS HOLDAY SEASON

UNCLE IN NY

ARTICLE BY DENISE K. JAMES HOME IN HHI

IMES ARE SOMET ERINGS, WE TH GA S. IN OF IE IL CE OUR FAM E ABUNDAN S ANYMORE: SI E LOVE TH W BA MILY Y GH IL FA OU R ITH YOU E ON A DA EVEN TH THE TIME W N US, AND WE DON’T SE D, PO T U A EA TH IS CIAL DR N SO LE OT SO W E SEA ENJOY, N ITH A FE ECIAL PEOP THE FESTIV VE GIFTS. W H THOSE SP S ON HOW TO SI IT ON N W TI E PE ES M EX TI GG H SPEND FERING SU YONE WIT FORCED TO LING EVER E, WE’RE OF WITH DAZZ S 100TH ISSU DO 2’ TO CH G OF IN OTH HONOR N. IT HAS N THE PARTY. THIS SEASO THE HIT OF BE L MEMBERS ’L U YO E, V EE SL YOUR GR ACES UP

Remember that you are an adult now.

It’s hard to see all the older adults of the family and not revert to being a 12-yearold again. For example, let’s suppose your grandmother says she doesn’t care for your hairstyle. Instead of putting on your “rude kid” hat and snapping at her, only to be reprimanded later by another family member for doing so, try a calm reply.

Act like an adult when you see your family members. Even if you’re the youngest, you can command the respect you deserve.

Simply voice your opinions in a mature manner and explain why you feel the way you do. Who knows? You might just inspire them to act more grown up, too.

Put aside past resentment. Most of us hold a grudge or two against one or more family members. Whether it’s for something

major or an old, petty disagreement, put it aside for the sake of the other relatives who are hoping to enjoy the togetherness of the season.

Let’s say you haven’t seen a certain sibling since he or she disappeared to the West Coast all those years ago and never sent you a single postcard or called once.

It’s best not to address how you feel during Christmas dinner or any time when your mother is simply glad to have you both under the same roof again. Put a smile on your face; hug your long-lost sister or brother and ask about how life is going. It’s not as difficult as you might think.

Don’t bring up sad topics. One of the reasons children enjoy the holiday season markedly more than adults is that they know how to have fun. Make it a point to keep the holiday season lighthearted by avoiding topics that might bring about a sense of melancholy, such as friends who moved away long ago, death or divorce.

COUSIN IN FL

SISTER IN PA

Beyond your personal family life, try to focus on the positive during the holidays. And don’t miss the opportunity to open your heart and extend well wishes to those who might be down on their luck this year. If you know of a family who struggles with purchasing gifts, for example, why not offer to bring them a few surprises? Not only will you feel great about yourselves as a family and enjoy the bonding experience, you’ll also be helping someone else.

Keep a sense of humor. We know… There’s that relative whose sense of humor or idea of a good time simply grates on your nerves. Maybe he or she is known for drinking a bit too much of the hot buttered rum, making off-color jokes about politicians or harassing you about your “artsy” boyfriend and his “weird” boots.

It’s best to keep your sense of humor for the time being.

And what if you flat-out don’t find him or her funny? You don’t have to fake a guffaw at a crass joke, but learning to gently guide the conversation in another direction—without scolding the family member in front of others—will ensure that everyone else’s discomfort is alleviated. For instance, if your successful cousin insists that you can’t possibly manage to save money while working full-time in a bakery, change the subject slightly by asking your grandmother for her bread recipe.

Suggest new traditions but honor old ones. When you were a child, the holiday season was completely different—from the ways your parents behaved to what you ate for breakfast to how soon you decorated the tree. Right? And it was awesome, because those were the circumstances at that time. Now you’re older, and,

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let’s face it. A few of those old traditions need to be replaced, particularly if your mother gets a little downtrodden every time she thinks about the fact that her children no longer live at home and follow her around the backyard at dusk.

The trick is to suggest a few new traditions but also to honor the ones that are time-tested and still bring your family members joy. You’ll know the difference when you see it. If your father gets choked up looking at an old reindeer ornament that you made when you were six years old, get him something new to hang on the tree—still from you, just slightly updated in meaning.

Bring something to the party. Now that you’re grown, don’t automatically expect everyone to feed and entertain you, even if you’re going to your parents’ house. Instead, think of something that you can contribute to the festivities. The most obvious answer is a food item, but, if you aren’t skilled in the kitchen, don’t worry.

There are other possibilities. If you are hung up on bringing food, try something simple, such as sweets (no one ever said no to boxed brownies, as long as you don’t burn them) or a dip.

Other ideas for contributions might include a party game that everyone can play after dinner, old photographs of the family or an original song or performance of some kind. Be creative.

Offer to keep in touch. The best way to end a gathering of family and old friends that you don’t see regularly is with the promise to keep in touch. You might secretly wonder whether you’ll actually have time to grab coffee with a cousin between now and next year, but the intention matters most.

And don’t overlook the possibility of keeping in touch virtually. Try exchanging e-mail addresses, Facebook information or even Instagram handles. The point is to avoid darting out the door without expressing gladness about seeing each other again.

Because honestly, if you’ve followed these guidelines, you’ve probably had a perfectly marvelous time.

DECEMBER 2014

DESIGNERS

O

wner Mark Goodman and his team at The Hair Designers have created a modern salon in the tradition of the great European salons of the 17th and 18th centuries, where inspiring hosts gathered artists, musicians, and literary figures to amuse one another and exchange ideas and inspiration. While the job of hair designer or barber had been in existence for centuries, it wasn’t until this time period that grand hairstyles were created, and often constructed (think Marie Antoinette’s mile-high masses of curls) in salons dedicated to style, image, and community.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Amid sparkling mirrors, lovely scents, chatter, and laughter that could take place today or this same day in 1784, Goodman and his team of artists bring professional excellence to the

creative business of hair. “We’re all creating and helping each other create,” he said.

A rarity in the beauty business, The Hair Designers is an employee-based salon, where there are no booth renters or independent contractors, only team members who work for and with Goodman to provide exceptional guest services. “Guest services are what it’s all about.

It’s our number-one priority to make sure that the guests are taken care of, and I feel that the best way to do that is if the salon works as a unit and as a team,” he said. “The whole culture of the salon is important to me. I have certain standards. I have policies and procedures that

Article by kitty bartell

photography by krizstian lonyaii

he said. With his own penchant for teaching color, Goodman and his staff provide their prescription card—a list of recommended products—any time they complete a chemical service. “It’s our guarantee that says that we guarantee our work if you use the products that we recommend and follow these certain instructions.”

With the guest in mind, the salon has products to reach a wide range of needs and desires. From the Aveda line of products to Aquage, a fashionable newer line with a reputation for excellent performance in high humidity regions like the Lowcountry, to their Italian line of color, shampoos and conditioners, lightly scented in plain, simple European-style bottles. “I try to gear my products so that they cover every guest’s needs—hair types, personalities—the classics and the new and trending,” Goodman said.

As a longtime area resident and business owner, Goodman and his staff give back to the community by supporting the initiatives of CAPA, Child Abuse Prevention Association, and CODA, Citizens Opposed to Domestic Violence. The Hair Designers’ team has been trained to spot signs of domestic violence through the Professional Beauty Associations program Cut it Out®, making the logical connection between a profession uniquely able to see the signs of abuse and victim resources.

Mark Goodman is surely an inspiring host, operating his salon with a focus on serving the customer well, along with providing an environment for his troupe of artists that encourages creativity, growth, and a sense of community. The Hair Designers successfully carries on the salon tradition, where mirrors will always sparkle, ideas will always flow, and the chitchat will chirp away, no matter the century.

The Hair Designers is located in the Village at Wexford on William Hilton Parkway, Suite F-1, Hilton Head Island.

Salon hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.4 p.m. For appointments and more information, call (843) 686-HAIR (4247) or visit thehairdesigners.net.

L. Robert Stanfield Photography

have to be followed in certain ways so that we are all on the same page.”

Some of the credit for the salon’s longevity and success stems from this very business structure. “By us working together, my employees have health insurance, they have paid vacations, they get bonuses; I offer a lot of benefits to them and a lot of support,” he said.

Much of that support comes in the form of encouraging his team to participate in ongoing training, from their monthly in-house training and business meetings, to outside competitions and trainings.

Annually, Goodman also takes his entire staff to the Premier Beauty Show in Orlando, one of the industry’s largest educational and competitive shows in the country.

Monthly in-house trainings are presented by Goodman, along with the salon’s stylists presenting to the team on a regular basis. The latest cut and coloring techniques are discussed, new product knowledge and hair knowledge are presented, and a business meeting is held to discuss guest services and any new decisions about the salon. “I pass any decisions about the salon before the salon so that I can get their input or their vote,” Goodman said. “I want to make sure my employees feel ownership of the business too—that they are not just working here.”

The quintessential teacher himself, Goodman became involved in the National Association of Hairdressers early in his career and went to work with a salon that was very active in the association. He has taught at the state and national level and was elected to the board of directors of the National Cosmetology Association, eventually becoming their president. He also now serves on the board of directors of the Professional Beauty Association, the country’s largest beauty association, and runs competitions in the North CarolinaSouth Carolina region. He encourages his stylists to compete, and this past April the salon’s newest stylist, Travis Harper, won first place in hair cutting and first place in styling, bringing home the big traveling trophy to the salon (the fifth time this trophy has been won by one of Goodman’s team members).

Over the years, Goodman came to recognize that there plenty of spas and nail salons that fill the needs of people looking for spa treatments, manicures and pedicures. He made the decision that The Hair Designers would have a singular focus, offering cuts, color, and hair treatments. “We are here to offer the best possible knowledge and expertise for our clients’ hair,”

Article by Rebecca Edwards

wacky

Holiday traditions

D

id you know that in December and January, people around the world celebrate over a dozen different recognized holidays? For example, in addition to Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, there are the Christian-based holidays Saint Nicholas Day and Three Kings Day, Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexico), St. Lucia Day (Sweden), Boxing Day (Australia, Canada and England), and Omisoka (Japanese New Year).

Across the globe, there are some wacky ways to celebrate. Christmas alone has its fair share of jubilant antics. Let’s start with Italy where La Befana, this creepy witchnosed, broomstick-wielding old Italian lady gives gifts to sweet, innocent children. In Caracas, Venezuela feet get involved in the holiday hoopla as hundreds of people roller skate to early morning Christmas mass and tug on tags hanging from windows that are connected by strings to the toes of sleeping children. (As a mother, I would just pray someone would not wipe out while tugging on my kids’ toes.) In Germany (I bet you can’t say, “Frohe Weihnachten”—German for “Merry Christmas”—10 times fast), you’ve got the highly-flammable lighting of the Christmas tree, which includes real candles.

The tradition of hiding a Christmas pickle

in a tree has been adopted by Americans because, well, we love pickles. (According to ilovepickles.com, Americans consume more than 2.5 billion pounds of pickles each year.) In the Ukraine, they seem to hold on to the Halloween spirit a bit longer than the rest of us and decorate their trees with spider webs for good luck.

While we could go on about some even zanier, international, time-honored holiday behavior (google “El Caganer”), there are some new eccentric traditions. Think about the Elf on a Shelf. Sure, we’ve all laughed at this Pinocchio-looking imp online. From Ken and Barbie stick-em ups, to posing with mini bottles, to being arranged in some compromising and precarious positions, the Elf on the Shelf is a relatively newfangled and comical addition to the Christmas celebration line-up. And though I refuse to adopt this character into my family’s holiday jollity (simply because I don’t have the time or the brainpower to remember to move the darn doll every day), I find it interesting that the Elf on the Shelf originated from a retired music teacher turned-millionaire’s family’s tradition.

According to Carol Aebersold, the Elf on the Shelf innovator, it was a family tradition. “I had an elf as a child, so when I got married, he came along with me… and my children grew up with an elf,” she said on Windy City Live. “I remember them speaking with [Santa] and telling him things they wanted him

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to know and maybe things they didn’t want him to know. One day, my daughter was sitting at the table with me, and she said, ‘Mom we should write this down and share it with the world.’” In 2005, Aebersold and one of her twin daughters Chanda Bell selfpublished The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition and convinced Aebersold’s other daughter (Bell’s twin) Christy Pitts to quit her job as a QVC host and launch Creatively Classic Activities and Books.

Since then, from Thanksgiving evening to Christmas Eve, parents tell their children about the roving, ever-watching elf that delivers naughty or nice reports back to Santa. The children can speak to the elf, but they cannot touch it, which as my daughter Ruth Love says is no problem, because, “he’s weird, Mommy.” (The more I reflect on this, the more I can’t help thinking the Elf is a freaky doll version of Big Brother from 1984.) The Elf now comes in both genders and different skin tones and is an inflatable figure in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Moreover, its originators are jingling all the way to the bank with over 16 million dollars in sales in 2011 alone.

Though not a multi-million dollar franchise idea (yet), every year my family has a Dupper dough party. Here’s the backstory: My father’s name is Dupper. As a child, every Christmas Eve, my brother and I made salt-dough ornaments. We would blast Christmas tunes, while having a blast making an array of winter wonderland-inspired figurines. When my husband Lee and I were first dating, we could

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family history

not afford to buy a bunch of new ornaments for our tree. So I hosted “Dupper Dough” night and had all our friends over. We baked homemade pizzas and salt dough designs. That was 16 years ago. Now, minus the all-night affair and off-beat creations (we still have Lee’s famous Christmas barracuda), my three girls and I have a similar party with their friends and parents. It’s my favorite night of the year.

As part of her family tradition, my dear friend and local artist Brucie Holler plays a game called Jackrabbit. “I don’t know what triggered it, but it started with my paternal grandfather. The month leading up to Christmas my dad’s family would get in their car and look for Christmas decorations,” Holler explained. “Once someone spotted a Christmas decoration, they were to yell “jackrabbit!” The person with the most jackrabbits was the victor.

This tradition was passed down to Holler from her father. When Dove Street in North Forest Beach had its epic neighborhood-

DECEMBER 2014

Holiday traditions

wide display, Holler’s husband Greg would put the top down on his 1974 Persian lime green Cadillac El Dorado convertible and he, Brucie, their twin boys, and Brucie’s divorced parents and their new spouses would pile in with blankets and warm toddies, and play jackrabbit.

“Dove Street was like a jackrabbit jackpot,” Holler joked.

Jackrabbit has also started a friendly holiday competition with her sister Bebe Cifaldi. “As soon as the decorations go up, it is game on,” Holler said. As for which sister usually wins, “I’d say me, but Bebe would probably say her.”

As I researched this article and spoke to friends, I learned about other funny traditions. “My mother grew up in small town in South Carolina (Abbeville) and was raised in the Southern Baptist Church,” began Graham Smith. “She met my father while they were both working at a bank in South Carolina. He was a flashy New Yorker who was raised Orthodox (Jewish).” Smith said her family “muddled together religion as we saw fit,” trying to incorporate aspects of both her parents’ holiday traditions.

Rather than a star on top of their tree, they place a sombrero.

Equally quirky, my cousin KC Tucker and her family in Arkansas leave a “Yule brew” (a Shiner Holiday Cheer beer) for Santa. My walking buddy Deena Paradiso starts Christmas morning with 24-hours of A Christmas Story. (Ralphie as an adult: “Aunt Clara had for years labored under the delusion that I was not only perpetually

DECEMBER 2014

four years old, but also a girl.”) My brother prefers a National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation marathon. (Eddie: “You surprised to see us, Clark?”

Clark: “Oh, Eddie... If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised than I am now.”)

So, what makes these holiday traditions have staying power?

What enlivens Italians to cheer on witchy women during the La Befana festival? Or drives parents to, after a long day, still get inventive about their Elf on a Shelf? Or keeps Brucie and her sister Bebe calling each other and yelling “jackrabbit” each year? Or, whatever tradition you and your family honor? Maybe we all need something to count on. Maybe we all want a reason to celebrate.

Maybe traditions remind us why we really get in the holiday spirit— to enjoy friends and family.

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ARTICLE BY LAURA JACOBI

SAVANNAH HARBOR FOUNDATION’S

Festival of Lights & WINTER CARNIVAL

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hen you make a list of your favorite holiday memories, what comes to mind? Driving around looking at the magical light displays, playing in the snow, having photos taken with Santa or drinking hot chocolate and eating s’mores by the fire?

The entire family can make all those precious holiday memories in one stop at the Savannah Harbor Foundation’s 2014 Festival of Lights and Winter Carnival, Nov. 28 through Dec. 28 at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. The five-week event will feature a drivethrough, dazzling holiday light show around the Grand Prize of America Road Course, the popular boat parade, Ferris wheel and carnival rides at Bryan Square, the Gingerbread Village inside the hotel and a winter-themed “fun zone” for the kids. The Savannah Harbor Foundation is a 501c(3) non-profit charitable organization designed to support local children’s’ charities and to present family-oriented community events.

According to Mark Spadoni, president of the Savannah Harbor Foundation, “We are fortunate to have the opportunity to serve the community by offering a truly family-friendly holiday event. The Festival of Lights and Winter Carnival is a way for us to bring the community and families together in the spirit of the season.”

More than 30,000 visitors made the pilgrimage to Hutchinson Island to enjoy the holiday festivities in 2013, and this year organizers say there’s even more family fun in store.

The main attraction, the Festival of Lights, will feature an 80-light display

Fireworks explode over the Savannah River in front of the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa across 2.3 miles that will surely fill the hearts of festival goers with magic and wonder. For $20 per car, the entire family can gather in the minivan or SUV for a self-paced tour or take an interactive and guided trolley tour that includes free parking at the Trade Center.

Then, head on over to the festival grounds, located at Bryan Square, Riverfront Esplanade and inside the Westin for the Winter Carnival. The young and young-atheart will enjoy the Ferris wheel with its majestic river and downtown Savannah views as well as the carousel and swing rides. The kids can play in the inflatable

village, which will include the Arctic Plunge, obstacle courses, train rides and the “Sugar Shack,” filled with hot chocolate and sweet treats from Santa’s elves.

But Santa isn’t letting his elves have all the fun, because he has set aside time in his busy holiday schedule to be available for photos.

One event that locals and visitors look forward to each year is the WTOC-TV Boat Parade, to be held Saturday, Nov.29. The event will feature more than 30 boats, a holiday concert, bagpipes, Oglethorpe Christmas Proclamation, snow machines, carnival rides, tree lighting ceremony

The main attraction, the Festival of Lights, will feature an 80-light display across 2.3 miles that will surely fill the hearts of festival goers with magic and wonder.

and the arrival of Santa Claus! All the fun starts at 5 p.m. and concludes with fireworks at about 9 p.m.

Other family-fun activities include s’mores kits with stations for roasting marshmallows, snow machines on the festival grounds, an expanded Gingerbread Village with more than 150 entries, a “Frozen” Princess Parade, and a holiday concert series and other local performances on the Savannah Morning News stage.

Spadoni says this certainly is his favorite time of year. “My greatest joy comes from providing an escape, a moment in time when none of the other stuff matters and families can be free to love and appreciate one-another without interruption,” he said.

“If we have done that, we have accomplished our mission.”

The 2014 Festival of Lights & Winter Carnival is presented by the Savannah Harbor Foundation, Savannah Morning News, the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa and O.C. Welch Ford.

For more information and a schedule of nightly events, visit savannahharborfoundation.com.

Festival organizers are still looking for volunteers of charitable organizations that benefit children or families who are interested in having their volunteer hours count toward earning donation dollars for their designated charitable causes. Contact David Moses at the Savannah Harbor Foundation for additional information, David.Moses@savannahharborfoundation.com

THE 2014 SAVANNAH HARBOR FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS DATES AND HOURS OF OPERATION Friday, Nov. 28-Sunday, Nov. 30: 6-10 p.m.

Thursday-Sunday: Dec. 4-7; Dec. 11-14: 6-10 p.m.

Open all holiday nights: Thursday, Dec. 18-Sunday, Dec. 28, 6-10 p.m.

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enus are written every day. The simplest version, a grocery list, may be jotted on the back of an envelope while stopped at a traffic light: chicken, potatoes, veg, bread, ice cream, foretelling what will be on the plate that evening. A less pedestrian version may be the menu for a meaningful holiday or the one created by the chef catering a dinner at your home. The real mother lode of all menus is the one created for a great new restaurant. Team Beall (husband and wife Price and Karen, and Price’s brother Sandy), owners of Chow Daddy’s on Hilton Head Island, knows a little something about writing such a menu; it’s complicated, it’s time-consuming, and it’s a whole

article by kitty bartell

lot of fun. Owners of the iconic Truffles Café in Sea Pines Resort and Truffles Café in Bluffton, the Bealls have a new baby, and according to Price Beall, “Chow Daddy’s is a very good baby.”

“This sort of evolved out of just wanting to do something that was completely different than anything that was here,” Beall said. Having purchased the building catty-corner to the former Truffles on Pope Avenue, the Bealls were excited to embark in a new direction. “We started talking about what we wanted on our menu and how we were going to do it. We probably had 18 full menu revisions before we even opened,” he said.

Most new menus start with recipes, and then

photography by anne

chow daddy’s is spot-on. The menu is inventive, savory, spicy, comforting, and simply delicious.

the recipes are made and tasted. “We actually developed this menu backwards,” Beall said. “We said this is what we want, so how do we make it? It was really fun. We spent hundreds of hours in the Pope Avenue kitchen.” For several of the tastings, Sandy Beall, retired founder of the Ruby Tuesday franchise, and his friend Suzanna Hill, would come from New York and provide valuable feedback. “If we all agreed that we like the way an item tasted, then we went to the next step of costing it. Then we’d take it and see if we could produce it on the backend, and develop the recipe to actually make it taste just like it tasted in the tasting. There was a lot of kitchen time.”

The resulting Chow Daddy’s menu is inventive, savory, spicy, comforting, and simply delish. A decorating dichotomy of cozy and rustic, the restaurant is inviting and most definitely a unique constellation of ingredients, with warm barn wood and worn metal surfaces, lobster baskets, and burlap draperies made from worn coffee sacks by Karen Beall in the family garage.

“We really love the process of doing this. We love laying out kitchens. We love laying out dining rooms. He [Sandy] loves developing the vision. Karen can see in her head how things are going to come together; the colors, the textures,” Price Beall said. “And our contractor Joe Nix’s team really did a great job. They worked really hard. It only took about three months.”

According to Beall, the priorities were to get the place right and get the food right. Chow Daddy’s is spot-on. The kitchen, and the menu itself, are anchored by two Big Green Egg Kamado-style cookers, in which meats are smoked throughout the day and evening.

“We knew we wanted the Big Green Egg to be an integral part of Chow Daddy’s. I got a Green Egg for Christmas last year, and we just started smoking everything,” Beall said. One of the menu’s most-loved dishes resulted from all that smoking. “I had all this smoked chicken, so I took it to Truffles and made a Sriracha-buttermilk-flour mixture, coated the chicken and fried it up.” Let’s just say, do not miss the House Smoked Fried Chicken Platter.

Sourcing South Carolina products and organics whenever possible, the Chow Daddy’s menu also features their buns, bowls, and tacos, with snacks, salads, and sides taking the plating potential to delicious places. “We wanted to make sure we didn’t use any preservatives or MSG,” Karen Beall said. “We have so many healthy items, but still so many not-so-healthy too. Everybody gets the best of both worlds.”

Chow Daddy’s’ buns feature the meats smoked on the Big Green Eggs, including their Southern pulled pork on homemade jalapeno cheddar cornbread with arugula, B&B pickles, apple slaw, and BBQ sauce… yum! There are imaginative fish tacos and a mushroom taco that has garnered a bit of a cult following. The roasted vegetable bowl with ricotta, over kale and quinoa is also a hit. Hint: try it with a fried egg on top. Finally, the rib eye burger is a worthy competitor for most amazing menu item. “We take the whole prime rib and we grind it.

It’s simple and pure and good,” Price Beall said. Topped with arugula, garlic aioli, Dijon mustard, caramelized onions, and cheddar, Havarti or pimento cheese… epic.

With live weekly entertainment, the NFL Ticket, SEC and Big 10 Networks, five big screen TVs, and $2 domestic lagers and $3 well cocktails all day, every day now through Super Bowl Sunday 2015, Chow Daddy’s is ready to amuse. Beautifully complementing the food is an original drink menu (think Watermelon Mint Martinis and Mojitos). A popular choice is Price Beall’s own vanilla-infused rum in the Chowtini. “I use pure vanilla beans from the pod, and some secret stuff too,” he said with a twinkle in his eye. Winter may also inspire him to make his cherry-infused bourbon. “I use good bourbon and good rum,” he said. “And that’s why it’s so smooth.”

Getting it just right has certainly been achieved, and a big part of that is having a menu that may change whenever inspiration strikes.

Making this just the place they were hoping for, Chow Daddy’s is the result of the imaginative passion the Bealls have for food and for creating a spot that surprises and invites guests to find something they might not have expected, but somehow seems comfortingly familiar.

Chow Daddy’s is open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to midnight. It is located at 14b Executive Park Road, Hilton Head Island. For more information, call (843) 842-CHOW or visit chowdaddys.com.

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making and bringing holiday cards to the kids.

You can do the same thing for the elderly by contacting local retirement and assisted living homes. Other local children and elderly charities are Palmetto Autism Connection, Hilton Head Heroes and Memory Matters.

If you are interested in helping an entire family in need, Family Promise is a local organization whose mission is to provide temporary shelter, family stability and permanent housing solutions for homeless families with children by mobilizing community resources.

You can adopt-a-family for the holidays and provide food and/or gifts for a family the size of your choosing. Call as soon as you decide you want to adopt a family so that Family Promise can accommodate your wishes. Another way to help Family Promise is by donating toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, postage stamps, cleaning supplies and/or trash bags at their location Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Visit familypromisebeaufortcounty.org for more information.

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is the season for giving back! Almost everyone wants to find a way to help others, especially during the holidays, yet many people do not know where to start.

There are countless options to assist those in need locally or on a national level, all of which involve different degrees of monetary and time commitments. Therefore, it is easy to donate or volunteer at a grade that suits your lifestyle and desires.

Volunteering or donating to a local cause is a great way to get more involved in the community, teach your children the power of giving back and witness the difference you make. First, decide what you are passionate about: children, the elderly, animals, military, families in need, etc. Then, figure out how much time and/or money you are willing to contribute to the cause.

Next, contact your charity of choice and get started. It is that easy!

Would you like to help sick children? If so, contact Savannah Memorial Hospital about

How about helping neighbors in need?

Bluffton Self Help provides food, clothing and emergency financial assistance to Bluffton neighbors in need. This year Bluffton Self Help is trying something new. Rather than offering an adopt-a-family program, the organization is hosting its first ever Toy Shop. Drop off unwrapped toys, and the parents of children in need can select for their kids. This is a great way to allow the parents to be more involved their child’s Christmas and gives them a sense of pride for selecting their child’s gift. Bluffton Self Help is also always (year round) in need of food and clothing donations. For your holiday party this year, ask guests to bring a couple of cans of food, soap, toilet paper, diapers, etc. (rather than a hostess gift or bottle of wine)

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as a way to get everyone involved and give back to the community. For more information, visit blufftonselfhelp.org.

Perhaps animals are your passion. Donate pet food or cat litter to your local Humane Society or rescue, or contact them in regard to their volunteering needs.

Brookes Haven Animal Rescue, which is the rescue division of Brooke’s Bed and Biscuit in Bluffton, is another option for volunteering or donating within the animal community.

Of course there are also countless charities on the national level that need assistance. From Toys for Tots to supporting our deployed troops to the Salvation Army, the opportunities are endless. The Salvation Army Savannah and Beaufort have a number of volunteer and donation choices available that can fit any budget or time commitment. It can be as easy as cleaning out your closet and donating to your local Salvation Army Donation Center. For more information regarding volunteering, visit salvationarmycarolinas.org/beaufort for Beaufort and salvationarmysavannah.org for Savannah.

Toys for Tots has several locations for collecting unwrapped toys. To find the closest drop-off location, visit savannah-ga.toysfortots.org/local-coordinatorsites/lco-sites/default.aspx (This Savannah link includes Beaufort County).

From sending care packages to making and sending holiday cards, there are many ways you can support our deployed troops. For more information, including deadlines and addresses for care packages, visit ourmilitary.mil/communityresources/supporting-our-military-this-holiday-season.

Everyone wants to volunteer and get more involved over the holidays, but it is important to remember that charity organizations need help all year long. Try volunteering when you have extra time or dropping off donations throughout the year. Make it a goal and add it to your calendar to do something once a month, whether it is dropping a package of toilet paper to Family Promise or canned food to Bluffton Self Help or visiting an assisted living home. By giving back all year long, you will feel great and inspire others to the same; and hopefully we can raise the next generation with an awareness of gratitude, giving back and an understanding of what is truly valuable in life.

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IN’ IN THE R AIN SING

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his holiday season, give that special person in your life the gift of classic, American entertainment—a ticket to join you at Singin’ in the Rain. The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina will bring this iconic musical to life Dec. 3-28.

Set in glamorous 1920s Hollywood, this story focuses on two silent movie stars in their transition to the early days of “talkies.” Don Lockwood and Lina Lamount are the toast of Hollywood. However, Lina has been cursed with a terrible voice and problems arise when she and Don must star in their first movie with sound! Secretly, Don and the studio executives arrange to have a beautiful, upand-coming actress, Kathy, do a voiceover for Lina. Kathy, later in the story, becomes Don’s love interest. Ambition, comedy and romance fuel the fire for this delightful musical! Singin’ in the Rain captured two Tony Awards when it was on Broadway and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.

This romantic comedy is most lovingly remembered in the form of the 1952 movie starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds.

Kelly played the lead role of the dashing Lockwood. According to the Arts Center’s cast, there is something about that story that is just as human and entertaining today as it has been for the past 60 years. Kelly’s toes tapping in the rain is more than a scene of a movie; it’s like a fond memory from days past—close your eyes and it’s always there when you need it.

The show’s director, Casey Colgan, says he’s thrilled to present this story to the Hilton Head Island audience. Colgan is no stranger to the Arts Center as he starred in its very first production, as Bobby Child, in Crazy for You, 25 years ago. Island audiences have seen him perform the role of Edna in Hairspray; Carmen Ghia in The Producers; Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast; and Rum Tum Tugger in Cats. He’s directed several productions at the Arts Center including 42nd Street; Anything Goes; Dreamgirls; Hairspray; Aida; and West Side Story, among many others.

Colgan says there’s just something about classics such as Singin’ in the Rain or The Wizard of Oz. “People want to revisit these stories like they’re seeing them for the first time,” he said. “There are so many musical classics that every kid needs to see. Singin’ in the Rain is one of them.”

Although Colgan said it is important to keep some of the timeless and iconic scenes, songs and dance moves the same as people remember, it is also vital to keep the action fresh so it’s relatable today.

Actor Alex Puette as Don Lockwood

Alexa DeBarr (Cyd) and Alex Puette (Don Lockwood)

“The singing and dancing is a huge part of this memorable musical, and our choreographer Jill Gorrie and musical director Jonathan Marro do an amazing job at making the musical numbers pop. We’re even providing the rain,” Colgan said. “But the audience will also be intrigued by the beautiful love story that develops.”

SPOILER ALERT: According to Colgan, one of the biggest changes from the screen to the stage version of Singin’ in the Rain is that Gene Kelly won’t be playing Don Lockwood. Instead, audiences will be captivated by the performance of Alex Puette, “a Don Lockwood for a new generation.” Puette has performed in Broadway national tours of Young Frankenstein and Legally Blonde. He’s also been seen in 42nd Street and West Side Story.

Puette said he grew up watching Singin’ in the Rain as his go-to “sick movie”— that movie you always put on when you’re at home sick because you wish to get lost in the story and forget how yucky you feel.

“I was such a fan of this movie that I was excited to get to know Don Lockwood a little better,” Puette said. “No one should try to be Gene Kelly, so I’m excited to bring my own life experiences into the character.”

With trembling in his voice, Puette added, “I feel so at home in this role and in this show.

This is what I was meant to do.”

Puette understands some of the struggles the character of Don faces in his career. Don and Lina were riding high as the biggest stars in silent movies. Then, come the “talkies” and this girl-next-door named Kathy, and it turns Don’s world upside down.

Through this rollercoaster of emotions and circumstances, Don discovers that “there’s more to life than a career,” Puette said. “He realizes that love and life are what matter.”

Lockwood’s love interest, Kathy, is played by Sarah Claire Smith. Most girls growing up dream of their movie-star crush picking them out of a crowd and living happily ever after together. Smith gets to relive those star-struck childhood fantasies on stage.

Smith says the character of Kathy is very familiar to her because she’s sassy and ambitious. Playing Kathy “is like putting on my own skin,” she said. “It’s comfortable, and the chemistry is natural.”

Local audiences might remember Smith from her performances in the Arts Center’s My Fair Lady and Anything Goes.

But, she says, it’s this show that means the most. Smith vividly remembers Singin’ in the Rain as her first-ever movie-watching

experience. She would watch the film in her grandmother’s living room as they danced around singing along with the stars to the legendary musical. She’s thrilled that her grandmother, Barbara Claire Smith, will be coming from Winter Haven, Florida to see the show.

Smith says her goal is to bring the character of Kathy to life, because she thinks there’s a part of Kathy in every girl.

She wants to create a palpable connection between the story and the audience.

“With theater, it’s alive,” Smith said.

“There’s a more intense relationship you have with the actors when you watch theater live you simply can’t have with a movie.”

Oakley Boycott, who portrays the gorgeous Lina Lamount, says there’s always a little bit of her own personality in every role she plays.

When the audience sees Boycott on stage, they will see the epitome of a glamorous movie star of the 1920s, Colgan said. She’s tall, thin and looks amazing in a flapper dress. But, most of all, she’s a great actress. Boycott has appeared in a variety of musicals, comedies and workshops throughout her career.

Boycott understands Lina because this character is loved by audiences and Hollywood executives alike—until she opens her mouth. Then, she’s judged for this one flaw: her grating voice. Everyone has something about themselves they wish they could change, Boycott said.

Even though the story is set in the ’20s, the internal struggles the three main characters face are still relevant today. “It transcends time,” Boycott said. “For kids, it’s a great introduction to musical theater.”

The costumes and pure entertainment level the show possesses will delight audience members of every age, according to Smith. All the actors agree that older theatre goers can look forward to a homecoming of sorts when they take their seats at the Arts Center. Folks are invited to take a delightful stroll down memory lane as they relive the first time they ever saw Gene Kelly singing and dancing in the rain.

“Now is the best time to see it, even if you’ve never seen the movie,” Puette said.

“The themes are universal.”

Shows will begin at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sundays. Preview performances are $47 for adults and $33 for children 4-15; Regular tickets are $57 for adults and $39 for children. Purchase tickets by calling (843) 686-3945 or visiting artshhi.com.

article by

COURTNEY hampson

photography by mark staff

six minutes of

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y ladder company was ventilating on a flat roof of a three-story wood-framed structure, using 18-inch circular saws. As we were cutting the ventilation hole, we noticed the tar on the roof began bubbling under our feet, which meant the fire had run up the walls, and the underside of the roof was on fire. We were in trouble. We gathered up our tools and retreated to the safety of our aerial ladder. In our haste, one of the firefighters slipped on the bubbling tar, and his arm knocked the helmet off my head. No way was I going back to get it. Just as I got onto the aerial ladder to descend to safety, the entire roof ignited and was engulfed in flames. After the fire was extinguished, I found the remnants of my helmet in a burned out third floor apartment.”

I always knew my dad was a hero, but he just told me that story today. That near-disintegrated helmet, with the shield still intact, Station Number 4 emblazoned on it, hung in our garage for as long as I can remember.

So, you could say that I have always had a soft spot for firefighters, the brave who run into a fire when everyone else is running out.

A few years ago, when Bluffton firefighter Randy Hunter walked into my public speaking classroom, I felt an immediate kinship. After the semester ended, we stayed in touch. And two years in a row, while walking the dog around the McCracken Schools campus on a Saturday morning, I stumbled upon the new recruit physical testing.

Each time I thought, hmmm, I wonder if I could pass that test; that would be a good story. I should ask Randy if I can take it.

Alas, this year, Captain Randy Hunter, assistant training officer and public information officer for the Bluffton Township Fire District took me seriously.

Suddenly, I had October 31 on my calendar as the day I was going to take the Bluffton Fire District’s physical test, the Personal Ability Course Evaluation (PACE). I’d be sharing my testing day with the one third of the district firefighters who are required to re-take and pass this test annually. No pressure there.

In addition to completing the application and a general knowledge test to meet the minimum requirements of the Bluffton Fire District, all candidates need a combination of strength and endurance. The Bluffton Fire District

has determined that any individual can successfully compete for the position of firefighter recruit if his or her preparation is focused on the physical abilities of the PACE, which is a job-sampling task performance physical ability evaluation, consisting of seven stations—the result of a significant amount of research on the occupation of fire suppression. The tasks reasonably test the physical abilities of an individual as they apply to performing basic fire ground duties.

No prior experience or knowledge as a firefighter is required to successfully complete the PACE. (Good news since I am pretty sure that knowledge is not hereditary.)

As if the PACE stations aren’t hard enough, the candidate also wears a fire helmet, fire gloves and a 50-pound weighted vest, which feels like 100 pounds at the end. The recruit has to successfully complete all the physical ability requirements in a specific sequence, without stopping, and in less than six minutes. Gulp.

Courtney Hampson is pictured here with her sister, mother, grandfather and father (DOn) a retired Fire Captain, at his promotion to Lieutenant in 1978.

six minutes of

professional courage

Endurance and completion of all stations is the goal, but if you thought you could make up some time running from station to station, bad news. Running on the course is not allowed and will be declared as unsatisfactory.

Candidates are monitored by at least one member of the fire department. Further, if you thought those members might provide a little boost of confidence, think again. Cheering and coaching are not permitted during the recruit PACE test. You either pass or fail. It all sounded very intimidating.

Since recruits are able to get advance instruction on the components of the course, and I was considered a “recruit,” I was fortunate to spend an afternoon with shift one at the Palmetto Bluff Station to understand the physical requirements of the test. This translated to me having the opportunity to completely psych myself out of ever being able to pass this test. Captain Hunter, Captain Allen Cramer, and firefighters Kevin King and Greg Linacre talked me through the stations, provided tips on technique, made me laugh, and told stories of recruits who didn’t quite cut it to make me feel more at ease. “I’ve seen guys pick up the sledgehammer, swing once, and say, ‘I’m done.’”

It was about 90 degrees in the sun that afternoon. I remember remarking, “Wow, it’s hot,” and the guys looking at me like I was crazy. Yep, fires are hot. Got it. Surely there must also be some etiquette training, because the firefighters didn’t call me an idiot, which is certainly what they were thinking.

The helmet, gloves, and weighted vest are a gamechanger. But, that 50-pound vest is only half as heavy as all of the gear that the firefighters wear. Also important to note, there is no ladies’ version of the test. All firefighters are measured equally.

I went home the night of my practice session, and because I had never swung a sledgehammer before, much less for five minutes, I was convinced I had suffered a stroke and that was why my hands were shaking for hours.

On the morning of the PACE test, I was nervous to say the least. Ironically, I awoke to the tweeting of my smoke detector’s dead battery. I iced both knees, ate a protein bar, took a Motrin and headed to the Bluffton Fire District Headquarters, all the time wondering, have I bitten off more than I can chew?

I arrive to find Captain Hunter putting the finishing touches on the course, and C2’s photographer locked and loaded to capture the moments of my struggle. I muster my confidence and march over with my pencil and notebook, as if this were any other story. Captain Hunter suggests I watch the firefighters take the test first to get a real feel for it. Sure, that should help. That would be like them watching me write a story, and by osmosis becoming writers, but I oblige.

I am impressed. The first shift from the department had taken the test the day before and Hunter reveals that the fastest time on the course was 2:21 (that’s more than three minutes faster than the required course time), with four minutes being average. Today’s group is breezing through the course. Everyone has met their annual requirement so far—good news, since the Bluffton Fire District covers 246 square miles from the Hilton Head bridges to the Beaufort /Jasper county lines, to the Broad River bridges. The combined eight stations take 5,000 calls a year, many of them medical, which is why every Bluffton firefighter is also

six minutes of

professional courage

required to be a nationally registered EMT. The two go hand in hand, Hunter said. “That would be like going to McDonald’s and saying, I am only going to do drinks.” In addition to being pretty bad ass, Hunter is also funny as hell. I imagine a sense of humor is a job requirement.

As training officer for the department, Hunter leads the charge for the PACE testing, and he boils down the entire process—for recruits and current firefighters—to one idea: professional courage.

“I want them to do it right. Every time. There are no shortcuts. Do it right. Every time.” For Hunter, the courage is in pointing out when his expectations are not met. And that was just the dose of reality I needed before I hit the course.

Helmet on. Gloves on. Weighted vest on. I’m ready to go.

“You warmed up? You ready to go?” asked firefighter Steve Anthony, incredulously. Um, do I not look ready? “Maybe you should take a short jog around the parking lot, you know, get warmed up,” he said.

So, I jog around the parking lot once, shake out my arms to symbolize my looseness, get in place at the first station, and I hear, “Are your gloves wet? Come here, come here, let’s get your gloves wet,” Anthony said. Now, I am beginning to think I am being punked in front of two dozen firefighters who already seem wary of me, my notebook, my editor, the photographer, and my husband and his GoPro. Why are we hosing off my gloves, I ask.

“For grip, better grip.” And all this time I thought water was a lubricant, but I am going with it.

Anthony (whose best time on the PACE is sub-two minutes) gives me one last bit of advice, “It is all about technique,” which only makes my stomach flip-flop because, well, I don’t have any.

THE PACE Station 1: Keiser Machine. The Keiser Machine will be positioned outside the starting line, facing the course. The candidate shall stand on the platform of the Keiser Machine with hammer in hand, in the ready position. The test will start when the candidate strikes the sled. The sled shall not be pushed, pulled or otherwise moved except by striking with the provided weighted hammer. The candidate must strike the sled continuously until the sled reaches the finishing position which will indicate the station is complete. The candidate will then be allowed to proceed 100 feet to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 1: I am standing with my feet about 12 inches apart, on a raised platform, with a 50-pound sled between my feet, and I have to swing a sledgehammer between my legs (probably more daunting for male recruits than female) and try to move the sled. This station is all about finding the sweet spot on the sled and listening for the perfect “tink.” If you hit it in the wrong spot, it barely moves. The hammer is heavy, the gloves are too big, and the helmet keeps sliding over my eyes. But I never stop swinging, hoping for some “tinks.” They don’t come as fast as I want, but the sled finally hits its mark. Next station.

Station 2: Hose Swap. Three fifty 50-foot sections of threeinch hose (in a straight roll) will be placed in a box that is 10 feet by five feet in dimension. The box will be located at a set of cones which marks the entrance to the hose swap station. A second box with three fifty 50-foot sections of three-inch hose will be located at a second set of cones, which marks the end of the hose swap station. The distance between box #1 and box #2 is 50 feet. The candidate shall swap the hose in box #1 with the hose in box #2. At the conclusion of this station, both boxes

shall have three sections of hose in them.

Once this is accomplished, the station will be declared complete and the candidate may proceed 50 feet to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 2. I am already winded. Deep breaths. Deep breaths. The sections of hose are heavy enough that I am not able to carry all three at a time.

But, I had plotted a strategy in advance.

Carry two, pick up two, carry one, pick up one. Moving slower than I wanted. Done.

Station 3: Hose Drag. The Candidate will drag 100 feet of weighted one-andthree-quarter-inch hose 50 feet. The nozzle will be placed at the beginning of the station, facing the remaining course and adjacent to the first station coupling.

The participant shall grasp the nozzle and drag the adjacent coupling past the water source mark 50 feet. When completed, the candidate may proceed to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 3: I didn’t get to practice this one, so I had no understanding of how heavy a hose full of water can be. And it only gets heavier the further you go, because you are carrying more hose. This is all about getting low in my stance, pulling the hose over my shoulder far enough that I can hold the nozzle just below my waist and move. At about 25 feet, I feel the weight change and snap me back a little, but because I am low, I am able to maintain my balance and forge ahead. Can’t catch my breath.

Station 4: Over and Under. The candidate will approach two 32-inch high obstacles that will be spaced eight feet apart. Candidate will go over the first obstacle and under the second obstacle.

After completion, the candidate may proceed 20 feet to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 4: What sounds so simple actually isn’t. Thirty-two-inch high obstacles are just high enough that my legs aren’t long enough to just swing over. So I teeter for a second before my foot hits the ground on the other side. Getting down to go under is easy.

Standing back up, 50 pounds heavier than usual, is a surprise.

Station 5: Rope Pull. The candidate will stand or sit in a five-foot by five-foot area marked on the testing field. The candidate will then pull a rope attached to a weighted pull sled 50 feet in to the box in which the participant is located. The candidate will not leave the designated box until the weighted pull sled has entered the box. After completion, the candidate may proceed 10 feet to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 5: Now I am tired, and I know that the two hardest stations are looming.

I watched some of the firefighters at this station before me, and they did a simple hand-over-hand pull. I am not confident that I am strong enough to pull with just one arm at a time, so I opt for a two-handed pull and struggle with what to do with the slack rope each time I pull it in. Fifty feet is long when you are short on technique, and it is heavy. So, I am also emitting a screamgroan-like sound, which upon reflection is pretty embarrassing, but I get the sled across the line and I move on.

Station 6: Hose Coupling. Two sections of three-inch hose will be placed side-by-side and the candidate must connect the hoses together by the couplings before proceeding to the next

station. Once the testing attendant confirms the hose is fully coupled, the candidate may proceed 10 feet to the next station.

Courtney’s Station 6: Connect a hose. How hard can that be? Ever connect a hose while hyperventilating and with hands that are shaking from slamming a sledgehammer and pulling a sled?

Station 7: Victim Drag. A rescue mannequin, weighing approximately 165 pounds will be placed 10 feet from the cones of the last station. The candidate will grasp and drag the mannequin 50 feet and pass through the last set of cones. Once the candidate and the mannequin totally pass through the last set of cones, the course will have been completed.

Courtney’s Station 7: Thanks to CrossFit, I know I can lift 165 pounds. I also know that when I typically lift that weight, I drop it immediately, because barbells don’t generally have to be carried to safety. In this instance, I have to lift “him” and drag him 50 feet: me, plus a 50 pound vest, plus a 165 pound guy who wasn’t going to offer any assistance. (Whose legs were duct taped together, but I was assured that the Bluffton FD does not bind every victim before rescue.) He is broad chested, so I know I can’t lock my hands together; I don’t have the wing span. I basically deadlift him,

hold on for dear life, and start to walk.

Backwards. I know my grip is wrong with my first step, and he is already slipping.

I drop him at 25 feet, and the idea of having to pick him up again is daunting.

Every muscle aches, tears are welling, and oh, did I mention that during this entire course, Anthony is screaming in my ear like I am a new recruit at Parris Island (apparently the no “cheering” for recruits policy doesn’t apply to members of the media). “Pick him up. Pick him up.”

My feet cross the line, along with Mr. Mannequin. I drop him in relief with tears stinging in the corner of my eyes.

“You’re not there. Pick him up. Pick him up. Don’t stop.” Those godforsaken ducttaped feet didn’t make it across the line, and I am not done yet. “Pick him up.

Don’t stop. Pick him up.” I’ve already picked him up twice, which is the hardest part. I don’t know how I can muster the strength, but there is no way I am going to let this guy screaming in my ear get the best of me. I am going to finish. I am going to do this right.

He’s up. He’s over.

I look to Hunter for my time. His face says it all. “17 seconds.” I miss the sixminute mark by 17 seconds.

As I catch my breath (relieved that I have 20 nationally registered EMTs standing by, just in case I hit the deck), I hear Battalion Chief Vernon Edenfield say this about new recruits, “My only question is, are they going to quit. We die in pairs, because you never leave someone alone. So, my question is, if we’re at a fire, and the roof falls in on me, is he going to quit?”

In 2014, 272 people turned in applications to be Bluffton Firefighters. Of those 272, only 78 showed up for testing.

The 78 did the PACE, and 12 failed. Sixtysix people were invited to take the written exam the following day, and 16 failed that.

So, of the 50 people eligible, 12 were hired, and they start on the job January 7.

And then the process starts all over again.

February 15, 2015 at 5 p.m. is the deadline for next year’s hiring cycle.

What does it take? Professional courage.

Things are happening at

HILTON HEAD H E A

L T H

Introducing

TRUE Restaurant

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obster bisque. You know it. You love it. And like a siren’s song this flavorful, French-inspired soup might wreck your weight-loss or maintenance goals—unless, of course, you’re dining at Hilton Head Health’s newly renovated restaurant True.

Through sheer culinary magic and mindfulness, True’s executive chef Hicham Elmadi has reduced this 248-calorie soup to 60 spoonlicking calories without, mind you, sacrificing the dish’s signature aromatics, creamy texture and luxurious lobster morsels. With every spoonful, a mental battle is waged between the voice in me that says, “Becca, show restraint” and the knowledge that this is actually guilt-free. Then our server brings the next course—

Article by Rebecca Edwards

the Mediterranean plate. Before me, beckoning me to elbow out my three fellow tasters, is a trio of white bean salad, eggplant ragu and hummus garnished with marinated artichokes, feta cheese, sliced tomato, cucumber, cured olives and grilled whole grain pita.

Minutes later, my Greek shrimp salad arrives and I make the happy mistake of inquiring about Chef Elmadi’s off-the-menu-butavailable-upon-request, special vegan cheese, which he delivers in person moments later with his broad, healthy smile. I’m in skinny hog heaven.

Originally from Casablanca, Morocco, Elmadi has been cooking around the world since graduating from culinary school in 1988. He speaks five languages and said, “I

Photography by Denman Bennett

The Elegant Dining Room at TRUE The lunch menu includes global goodies such as chicken shawarma, Mediterranean tomato soup and Thai chicken flatbread.

Chef Elmadi takes great pleasure in combining international flavors with local ingredients to make nutritious meals.

learned the languages and my dishes from Moroccan, Spanish, Italian and French mothers and grandmothers.” He infuses his diverse cultural and professional experiences into his food. The lunch menu includes global goodies such as chicken shawarma, Mediterranean tomato soup and Thai chicken flatbread. Elmadi takes great pleasure in combining international flavors with local ingredients to make nutritious meals.

“When I moved to the U.S., I realized how much prepackaged foods people used; in 2005, I started learning a lot more about nutrition and decided to have that be my focus,” Elmadi said. “Everything from our bread to our sauces is made in house, because I want to know exactly what’s in the food. Rather than using creams and cheeses, we focus on herbs, spices and colorful vegetables.” Also, to create a true culinary experience for H3 guests, Elmadi has created a fine dining menu for dinner.

“We want to immerse people in Lowcountry comfort and wellness,” said H3’s brand manager Adam Martin. Martin, who began working at H3 in 2005, has seen the weightloss and health resort not only thrive, but be voted as “Best for Weight Loss” for the past five consecutive years by SpaFinder and “Top 5 U.S. Health Spas” by Lisa Drayer on The Today Show.

“When I started, we only had two servers,” Martin said. “Now we have a huge culinary staff. I was the first full-time fitness instructor and now we have six full-time instructors

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www.celebratehiltonhead.com

and 15 part-time ones. The facility has really expanded, too, and we are gearing up for the next two phases of development—the addition of Indigo Spa and the 30-room Inn.” “The Indigo Spa will provide a 4D total relaxation experience for guests. They will feel immersed in serenity with Lowcountry images, soothing fragrances and world-class services,” said H3’s CEO Michael Tompkins. Tompkins, who previously worked for the prestigious Miraval Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona, joined the H3 team in July and has lost over 20 pounds eating Elmadi’s food and exercising with H3 trainers. “Our core mission is weight loss, and we are good at it, but what makes us the best in the country is the fact that our guests lose the weight and keep it off.”

Martin and Tompkins attribute this to H3’s comprehensive approach to wellness. “All the meals go through a registered dietitian and ESHA [nutrition analysis software],” Martin said.

“Plus our guests receive counseling, instruction from the best fitness trainers, attend hands-on cooking classes, and form lasting friendships with other guests.”

Martin continued by explaining H3’s three health programs. LoseWell is H3’s most intense weight loss program. It lasts four weeks and is really for people who are seeking guidance and to be held accountable to lose 40 or more pounds. LiveWell is a weeklong program focused on those who need to lose 10 to 30 pounds and who need a quick reboot to get back on track. PlayWell is H3’s brand new initiative. Still targeting the health and wellness conscious, this package focuses on all the fun recreational outdoor offerings you can do on Hilton Head such as golf, beach yoga, parasailing, walking tours in historic Savannah, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

For those of you who want to shrink your waistline but not your wallet, you can save on accommodations and airfare and try H3’s one-day or three-to-four day package which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, access to all the fitness classes and facilities, wellness discussion classes, cooking demos and resort credit for spa services like massages.

“What’s great is that locals can enjoy a stay-cation at H3 and get in shape,” Tompkins said. What’s also convenient is couples or travel companions don’t have to do the same program. Maybe one person chooses to do the LiveWell program while the other does PlayWell.

Furthermore, you do not have to be a guest to participate in H3’s healthy kitchen offerings, which include chef tables, cooking classes, and sound bites (30-minute demonstrations). After begging Chef Elmadi to teach me how to make his lobster bisque and vegan cheese he replied, “Sure, sure. I love making nutritious food for people and I am happy to help anybody learn how to eat better.”

Becca Edwards is a certified birth doula, holistic health coach, yoga and Barre instructor, writer/blogger, and owner of b.e.well and b.e.creative (bewellbecreative.com).

DECEMBER 2014

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A rt i c l e by B ra d Benjamin

Indiana

Success Story Bubbles up on Hilton Head Island

H

ilton Head Island has a new mayor, and while it may seem to most local residents as an unexpected and sudden shift in the winds of island politics, the rumblings that erupted in an overwhelming 65 to 35 percent runoff on Tuesday, November 18 were actually being stirred for more than two years.

Mayor-elect David Bennett, formerly the Town’s Planning Commissioner, is a product of Carmel, Indiana, where he watched the city’s internationally respected five-term mayor, Jim Brainard, transform a crumbling town into a city that was recently recognized by CNN Money as the number one city in America to live (population 50,000-300,000).

“Mayor Brainard was my hero in many ways,” said Bennett, whose campaign was built on the theme, “We Can Do Better.”

Bennett has pointed to Brainard’s often quoted comment about energizing his city’s economy: “Our city has to get out of the mode that our competition is a half an hour down the road.

It really isn’t. It’s everywhere around the globe today. We really need to work harder on attracting good jobs here. And I think the way we can do that is by creating really special features to our city.”

Bennett notes that Carmel today has some of the lowest taxes anywhere in the United States, because it has attracted a plethora of business investment that pays the lion’s share of the tax burden.

A VISION HAS BEEN BREWING As it turns out, Bennett’s experiences in Carmel melded beautifully with the ideals of a small cadre of Hilton Head Islanders who had been working within the Greater Island Council and an outlier luncheon group from the 2010 Hilton Head Island Mayor’s Vision Task Force. As Jack Alderman of the Greater Island Council explained, “There was a crying need for an island-wide vision to guide planning decisions outside the gated communities.”

Alderman, Gail Quick and others on the council began sharing their thoughts with David Ames and his luncheon partners from the Vision Task Force.

Quick suggested that Bennett, with whom she had been working on the Hilton Head Planning Commission, might be an attractive “fresh face” who could effectively articulate the ideals of creating a town that would not only be a world class tourist destination, but also a world class livable community.

Getting Bennett elected however, would be the biggest hurdle, and quite frankly, as members of the group—now including Alex Brown, Jim Collett, Marty Gleason and John Joseph—conceded, it would be an almost impossible uphill battle because of Bennett’s lack of name recognition within the community.

As one member of the group admitted, “We weren’t really expecting to win against an incumbent mayor, but we thought at least we could get some of our ideas discussed in an open, public forum. Plus, time was incredibly short. We only had seven weeks until the general election.”

Ames approached a long-term friend, Tom Gardo, president of Denarius Group, a Hilton Head-based public relations, marketing and issues management firm, to take on the task of putting a campaign together. Gardo, who had managed more than two dozen area political campaigns since the early 1980s, was skeptical because of Bennett’s lack of name recognition and the short window until the November 4 general election. But, he said he would give it his best shot.

The rest is history, and potentially a new direction of the Town of Hilton Head Island. Bennett achieved a near tie in the general election and went on to win with 5,837 votes to Laughlin’s 3,151 in the runoff.

“We were thrilled to discover that a lot more people than we had imagined felt just like we did,” Alderman said. “Hilton Head Island can do better!”

It’s

5

O’CLOCK

SOMEWHERE!

M

S Chow Daddy’s- Happy Hour Daily! (4-6PM) & NFL TICKET! Charbar Co.- Game day snacks and drink specials!

(4-7PM) Ruby Lee’s- Candace Woodson and The Domino Theory Band (Sundays) Dec 28: La Bodega ELA’s Blu Water Grille- Tim Malchak (Every Sunday for Brunch; 11AM-2PM)

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Hudson’s- Happy Hour!

Beer, cocktails & bites (Daily 3-6PM)

T Charbar Co.Join us for half-price happy hour from 4-7PM & Live Music!

Lucky Rooster- Will Snyder (7-10PM Tuesdays) Hudson’s- Happy Hour!

Beer, cocktails & bites (Daily 3-6PM) Captain Woody’s-Happy Hour!

(Daily 4-7PM Bar Only) Street Meet- Kitchen is Open til 1AM- Full Menu! (7 Days A Week)

Charbar Co.- Join us for half price happy hour from 4-7PM. Holy Tequila- Happy Hour! $2.50 select liquors, beers, tacos & bar snacks! & MORE! (Daily 4-7PM) Truffles-Happy Hour $3 wells, $5 absolut cocktails, $2 premium cocktails, wine, beer and appetizers at bar.

(4-6:30PM)

Ruby Lee’s-Candace Woodson And The Domino Theory Band (Tuesdays)

Send your event/entertainment listing to c.davies@celebratehiltonhead.com

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T

Charbar Co.- Join us for half price happy hour from 4-7PM AND Live Music!

Street Meet- Kitchen is Open til 1AMFull Menu! (7 Days A Week) Truffles-Happy Hour: $3 wells, $5 absolute cocktails, $2 premium cocktails, wine, beer and appetizers at bar. (4-6:30PM) Hudson’s- Happy Hour! Beer, cocktails & bites (Daily 3-6PM) Chow Daddy’s-Happy Hour Daily! $2 lagers, $3 well drinks, $4 select craft beers & house wine.

ELA’s Blu Water GrilleLive Music by Reid Richmond (Every Thursday; 7-11PM) *CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY Ruby Lee’s- Target the Band (Thursdays) *CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY* Electric Piano-Smirnoff Vodka Ladies Night with Charlie Denison taking all your requests from Country to Motown.

JAN. 1ST: CLOSED NEW YEARS DAY Street Meet- Kitchen is Open til 1AMFull Menu! (7 Days A Week)

Electric Piano-All the way from Greenville, SC. It’s Two’s Enough Band.

Interactive and all request! NEW to EP. Come out and party with this fun-filled trio.

Salty Dog-Dave Kemmerly (Thursdays, 5:30-9:30PM) Hudson’s- Happy Hour! Beer, cocktails & bites (Daily 3-6PM)

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The Jazz Corner- Dec 5 & 6: Reggie Deas & Deas Guyz : “A Motown Holiday Spectacular ELA’s Blu Water Grille - Chicago recording artist John Wasem (Every Friday and Saturday; 7PM) Electric Piano- 5th: Laiken Love and Willie Jones Motown Dance Party. December 12th, 19th and 26th: Dueling pianos with Dallas, Charlie & EddieAll request, interactive show. $4 Fireball shots & Happy Hour until 9pm.

Chow Daddy’s- NFL Special: $2 domestic lagers, $3 well cocktails!

(All day every day- Good Through Super Bowl Sunday 2014) Hudson’s- Happy Hour! Beer, cocktails & bites (Daily 3-6PM)

S

Dec. 13th: 7th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Bar Crawl- Charity Fundraiser for the Lowcountry Autism Foundations. Five Bars, One Night!

Black Marlin & Carolina Crab (5:30PM) Smokehouse (7:30PM), Caseys Sports Bar (8:45PM), Frosty Frog (9:45PM), Mellow Mushroom (10:45PM)!

The Electric Piano- The Simpson Brothers: Classic Rock, Beach Music and Motown. Happy Hour from 8pm-9:30pm with great Drink Specials.

Ruby Lee’s- Dec. 6: Earl Williams And Alexander Newton Dec. 13: La Bodega - Dec. 20 & 27: Deas Guys ELA’s Blu Water Grille- Dec. 6: John Wasem (7-11PM)

DECEMBER

SUNDAY HH PREP’S FESTIVAL OF TREES Sonesta Resort Through Friday, December 5 FREE and open to the public!

HILTON HEAD HUMANE CHRISTMAS PARTY! Hilton Head Humane Shelter 12-2PM Pictures with Santa, Refreshments and Live Music!

2014

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

2

2-7

FREE WREATH MAKING CLASS: REVIVAL GIVES BACK Revival Design & Decor 6-8pm RSVP to 785-5557

HOLIDAYS ON THE HALFSHELL Main Street Youth Theatre 8 p.m. Sunday matinees 2 p.m. msyt.org.

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AN EVENING IN DECEMBER 3RD ANNUAL TWO SHOWS USCB ANNUAL HHI Community SHARK BAIT 5K Church Coligny Beach 4:30pm & 6:00pm 4:00PM TicketsBenefitting Family $5 per person Promise of Beaufort hiltonhead County! islandcc.org

ALL MONTH LONG

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SALTY DOG CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Nov. 28 - Dec. 31 Salty Dog Hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights & decorations and free pictures with Santa on Fridays and Saturday nights until Christmas. www.saltydog.com

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MONDAYS STORY TIMES The Storybook Shoppe 10AM No Cost, Ages 3 and Up www.thestorybook shoppe.com.

3-28 SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN Arts Center of Coastal Carolina 8pm Tuesdays-Saturdays; 2pm and 7pm Sundays www.artshhi.com

3 HOLIDAY SALES/ OPEN HOUSE The Back Door 5:30-7:30 Annual Holiday Wine Stroll to benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital

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CHRISTMAS MUSIC PROGRAM Hilton Head Christian Academy 6:30PM www.hhca.org

17-19 JEWELRY SHOW 10AM-6PM The Porcupine in The Village at Wexford

23 HARBOUR TOWN LIGHTS Through Jan. 1.

Starts at 7:30PM Harbour Town

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CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICES 3:00pm, 4:30pm, & 6:00pm Special music, carols and candlelighting 843.681.3399

14TH ANNUAL POLAR BEAR SWIM 10:00AM Harbour Town Pool 843.842.1979.

Complimentary

THURSDAY

4-7 SUN CITY CHORUS AND CONCERT BAND PRESENTS: A DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS! Dec.4,5 & 6-7PM Dec. 7- 2:30PM Tickets are $23

4 FREE WREATH MAKING CLASS: REVIVAL GIVES BACK Revival Design & Decor 2-4pm RSVP to 785.5557

FARMERS MARKET IN OLD TOWN BLUFFTON

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

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6 2 5

SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Westin Hilton Head Resort 8-11PM westinhhi.com

SHABBY CHIC PAINT CLASS Revival Design & Decor 12-2PM revivaldesigns hhi.com/

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19

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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NEW YEAR’S EVE!

20 OUTDOOR MOVIE- THE POLAR EXPRESS Under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town 7-9PM seapines.org

12/4,12/11 & 12/18 2pm-6pm Closed 12/25 & 1/1/2015 Winter Market reopens 1/8/2015 Noon-4pm Calhoun Street farmersmarket bluffton.org

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MOVIE ON THE GREEN Palmetto Bluff Christmas in the Village 6:00PM Gates open at 4:30 palmettobluff.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAITY!

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