CB2: Celebrate Bluffton - August 2010

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AUGUST 2010

CELEBRATE BLUFFTON & BEYOND

ND ISL A WITH MAP TOR VISIOUNTS C DIS

P16 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR It seems everyone loved our monster.

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PhotograPhy by Mark Staff

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Stay

This

Cool

Summer

don’t

Dear Mom,

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July 2010

SweAT

Sorry I haven’t written lately. Been swamped promoting my new movie!

Decided to get away for a few days and do this “vacation” thing these humans are always talking about.

it this summer.

Call Superior heating and Air

I

t’s hot. The heavy air clings to your skin, preventing evaporation of the sweat that beads up on your forehead. Slowly, a drop slides past your ear and trickles down the back of your neck, irritating as an insect. Inside your clothes, hot moisture is trapped—you’re like a pot of steamed rice with the lid on. Just sitting down seems like hard work in these conditions. Desperate, you jump in a cold shower and this provides the relief you’ve been seeking…but only temporarily. As soon as you get out, you begin to sweat again before you’ve even finished toweling off. What sort of nightmare is this?

An AC-less nightmare, that’s what. Without a breeze, you’re dead in the water. “life here before AC?” muses Dave Miller of Superior Heating and Air. “I’ve never thought about that, and I don’t want to think about it. It would be miserable.”

Miller grew up on Hilton Head, but he’s not quite old enough to remember the days before air conditioning.

Climate control has been a way of life, although he never imagined it would also become his livelihood. Having worked with his dad, a general contractor on the island, since he was 13 or 14, Miller wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps.

But after passing the state exam to get his commercial

Starring

AdAm Love

dAve miLLer

The CooL BroTherS 94

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They’LL never LeT you SweAT. They’re on A miSSion To fix your A/C

ARTICLE BY

COURTNEY HAMPSON

MARTY

FALLE

STIRRING UP SOME DUST

HE MADE ME CRY. YUP, SITTING RIGHT THERE IN FRONT OF THE COFFEE SHOP, IN A JAM-PACKED SHOPPING CENTER, ON A BUSY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, WITH HUNDREDS OF VISITORS PASSING TO AND FRO. MY EYES FILLED WITH TEARS AS THE LYRICS UNFOLDED. HE MADE ME CRY BEFORE HE EVEN HIT THE FIRST CHORUS. Marty Falle fancies himself a Midwestern cowboy, complete with hat and boots. No, he’s never herded cattle or lassoed a wild stallion, but to Falle, “cowboy” is a mindset.

It’s old America. It’s the simple life. It’s appreciation for those things that truly matter. It’s pick-up trucks, scuffed boots and a country bar on a Friday night.

Born and reared in Ohio, Falle’s parents believed that the arts were just as important as English and math. As such, they insisted that he and his siblings play a musical instrument during their formative years. One viola, a saxophone, a guitar and a bass later, and Falle was hooked.

“Music was meaningful in our family,” Falle said.

However, using his vocal instrument didn’t really occur to him until he was recruited—from detention to choir—in

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

RYAN HAGLER

ARTIClE By MICHElE RolDán-SHAW • PHoTogRAPHy By JoHn BRACkETT

July 2010

2010 August



MOST

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Adorable Pet Contest 

Entries were on facebook... but there is only one winner!

Roxy & Lula

Simon

Slater

Stinky

Suki Pickles

Trevor & Cheryl

Tyson

Sweetie

Roxy

Sadie

Sam - Buc

Sparky

Reese

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Tiger

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Woody

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Wynn & Bugsy

ES NTRI ALL E E B MUST BY IVED E R CE

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3 Aug.

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t

 GolF Tips From a pro

pete popovich,

} } A competent instructor should be well-versed in A number of wAys thAt mAke your gAme better.

Golf performance academy PHOtOgrAPHY bY ANNE

How to CHoose a

Golf InstruCtor - -

C

hoosing a competent golf instructor can be a difficult task. the right instructor can raise your game and lower your scores. the wrong instructor can lower your game and raise your scores. A competent instructor should be well-versed in a number of ways that make your game better.

Much like sound fundamentals in the golf swing, an instructor should have fundamentals of teaching. these fundamentals would be swing mechanics, club fitting, basic physiology, and communicating in a way that each student can understand. Let’s discuss each one in more detail.

Swing MechanicS: Almost all instructors are aware of basic golf swing mechanics. they obtain this awareness from other teachers, from generally accepted books and manuals or from watching videos of great golfers. However, just because someone is aware of swing mechanics does not mean he/she has a thorough understanding of the mechanics. Certain things that are “musts” in the golf swing. If a teacher cannot see what must happen for your particular swing to improve, you may be working on the wrong mechanics, thereby limiting your progress. Further, if a student does not think in “mechanical” terms, dwelling on mechanics can have a negative effect. too often, especially in the modern era teachers (and ultimately their students) get caught up playing swing mechanics instead of playing golf, and confusion (“paralysis by analysis”) results. A good teacher fits the mechanics and the student to each other so the swing becomes second nature as opposed to contrived. club Fitting: If you are having trouble with your swing mechanics, chances are your clubs do not fit you properly. No matter how many lessons you take or how hard you work, it will be difficult, if not impossible, for you to improve if your clubs are not fit to you. If your teacher does not understand how golf clubs should be fit, then all of his/her knowledge of swing mechanics is worthless. the golf club will determine how a person sets up and ultimately swings; and if you cannot set up properly, your potential is compromised even before you start your swing. Club fitting goes beyond handing you clubs from a fitting cart that contains a few clubs with a limited number of shaft and head options and a limited range of fit. these carts are what many teachers at most facilities consider club fitting. this is definitely not the case. If you do not fall into the narrow range of options offered by the fitting cart, your ball-striking potential is never realized. A knowledgeable

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teacher knows this. (See our club fitting article in the NovemberJanuary issues of CH2 & CB2).

baSic PhySiology: Physiology plays a major role in golf. A competent teacher should have a detailed understanding of how the body works. A good teacher understands that not all golfers’ bodies work the same: Men differ from women; adults differ from children; and young differ from the elderly. there are certain things the body can do and certain things the body cannot do. A teacher who does not understand this can put you in harm’s way by having you swing in a way that your body cannot handle. this typically produces discomfort, eventually leading to pain and, in severe cases, abandonment of the game.

A good teacher can recognize a student’s physical limitations and adjust the student’s mechanics so that improvement is not made at the expense of comfort. Physiology especially dictates a proper set up. Once the set up is correct (anatomically balanced), the club can be fit properly and the mechanics can fall into place. eFFective coMMunication: Even if your teacher is an expert in swing mechanics, club fitting, and physiology, if he/she does not know how to communicate in a way you understand, it does you no good. It is the equivalent of someone speaking to you in French when you speak English—knowledge cannot be exchanged. A good teacher knows how to find the cause of the problem by noticing the effects. In order to fix or cure that problem, the teacher must be able to translate the fix/cure to you in a way that you can understand. If you are a mechanical person, he/she should be able to explain it to you in mechanical language. If you are an artistic person who learns better with pictures or images, he/she should be able to explain it in that manner. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for explanations. the best teachers are eager to answer. You can ask teachers from grade school to high school to college professors around the globe, and the ones who are dedicated to their students will tell you that effective communication could possibly be the most important part of teaching.  All of these are fundamentals your teacher should possess.

Otherwise, you might not be getting as much out of your game as you should. If you would like to know more about choosing a competent teacher, contact the Golf Performance Academy at (843) 338-6737, on the Web at www.golfacademyhiltonhead.com or on Facebook at Golf Performance Academy-Hilton Head.

August 2010

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4 Pool Bar Jim’S “lava Flow” 1.5 oz Bacardi Light Rum 3 oz Pineapple Juice 1/2 ripe banana 1 oz. coconut cream 1 scoop ice Frozen Strawberries Fresh Strawberries Raspberries & pineapple slice Puree frozen & fresh strawberries.

Pour into tall glass. Puree ice, pineapple juice, banana, coconut cream, and rum. Pour over strawberry mixture. Garnish with raspberries and pineapple slice.

Enjoy on your back porch and pretend you are in the Caribbean.

5 Skull Creek BoathouSe “Skull Creek Sangria” 6 oz Gazela Vinho Verde wine (An irresistible bright fruity white wine.

The bouquet is a lively mix of citrus and floral aromas. Soft flavors of apricot and grapefruit are perked up by the sparkling bubbles and balanced by delightful crisp acidity and strong minerality.)

1/2 oz. Cointreau Triple Sec

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Fresh Strawberries, Blue Berries, Black Berries, Grapes Combine all ingredients in a wine glass over ice. Enjoy!

g cele br

ity

Article by HilAry KrAus

olf

H

Celebrates 30 Years

appy 30th birthday Hilton Head Celebrity Golf Tournament. Congratulations on being a signature event on the island since 1979, associating yourself with athletes and entertainers from Johnny Bench to Johnny Unitas, Pat Boone to Paul Williams.

(And let’s not forget astronaut Neil Armstrong, who, we’re told, refrained from busting out his moon-walking moves on the 18th green of Harbour Town.)

For 29 years—aside from the gap in 1994—you have raised more than $3 million through donations and fundraisers, which has helped various children’s organizations throughout the Lowcountry.

As you celebrate the big 3-0 on Labor Day weekend (Sept.

3-5), organizers decided it was time to do some puttering around with your schedule, format and entry cost. The celebrity list also has been tweaked to feature more regional personalities, which saves on airfare expenses, organizers said.

“The challenge is to adapt the tournament to the fastchanging economy,” said Kim Capin, tournament co-producer.

Unlike past years, where amateur golfers teamed with different celebrities for three days, the groups will pair up on Saturday and Sunday.

Friday’s activity on Sept. 3 has been changed to a community event where locals and out-of-town guests have the chance to

play Arthur Hills Golf Course at Palmetto Dunes. The cost is $195 per player and includes a continental breakfast and lunch on the course, a souvenir golf shirt and one ticket to the trustees’ oceanside party at the Westin Resort & Spa that night.

“This makes it an affordable way to participate in the weekend,” Capin said. “Our goal is to get the local community to embrace the tournament and get involved.”

Celebrities and amateurs will tee it up at the Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes on Sept. 4 and Harbour Town Golf Links at the Sea Pines Resort on Sept. 5. The cost, which also includes food on the courses, parties and gifts, is $2,250 per player.

An inclusive package for four golfers also is available for $12,500. The package includes four rooms for three nights at the Westin. As recently as last year, the same package cost $16,000.

COMeDIAN SCOTT ReCORD WITH KRAFT FOODS TeAM The tournament was able to lower the cost by tailoring sponsorship packages based on individual marketing needs, according to Carol Kavanaugh, tournament co-producer.

Organizers also are scrapping the scramble format in favor of a shamble, which combines elements of a scramble with elements of stroke play.

In a scramble, golfers play the best ball hit by a team member from the tee to into the hole. In shamble play, after the best tee shot is decided, golfers play their own shots into the hole.

The shamble will be played with handicaps given at 70 percent, which increases the chances for lesser-skilled players to contribute more to the team score.

While the prices and format are being modified, the weekend still will have the feel of an annual reunion as many of the same personalities have been making Hilton Head their Labor Day destination spot for years.

Among the regulars returning are Paul Williams, Academy and Grammy award-winning songwriter; Bobby Cremins, men’s college basketball coach; Henry Cho, comedian; Mark Malone and Sterling Sharpe, former NFL standouts and broadcasters; Branford Marsalis, jazz musician; Doug Flynn, former Major League Baseball player; Bucky Waters, broadcaster and former Duke men’s basketball coach; and Alan Kalter, the voice of Late Show with David Letterman.

Newcomers include actor Cheech Marin, boxer James “Bonecrusher” Smith, the Food Network’s Dinner: Impossible star Robert Irvine, FOX New’s Bret Baier, CNN weatherman Rob Marciano, and former NFL standouts Ken Anderson and Dwight Hicks.

Kalter, an avid golfer with a 13 handicap, has been giving up his end-of-summer holiday weekend for return visits to the Lowcountry for five years. But no one is twisting his arm.

“It’s been great,” Kalter said. “It’s one of the few tournaments that I look forward to every single year.”

YAnKee’s CAtCheR RiCK CeRone With CAMBRiDge BuiLDing teAM in the WeeDs

tournament a must return. “the volunteers there are absolutely tremendous,” said Kalter, a member at Rockrimmon Country Club in stamford, Conn. “And the people we see on party night and during the tournament are exceptional. they are the warmest, nicest people who you like to be with for three, four days.”

Luckily, the sun usually shines on Celebrity tournament weekend; Kalter remembered a few years back, when rain washed out sunday’s play. the downpour didn’t stop him, Williams, comedian gary Mule Deer and actor/songwriter Clifton Davis from getting in a round at Robert trent Jones. they were the only golfers on the course, Kalter recalled.

“And we won,” he added, in a friendly, comedic tone Letterman tV viewers have grown familiar with over the past 15 years.

But the real winners always are the charities. there will be 20 beneficiaries this year, an increase of four from last year because of hard economic times. the Child Abuse Prevention Association in Beaufort County is one of the non-profit organizations that has benefited from the tournament’s largesse for 21 years. the money is used for educational purposes, said susan Cato, executive director of the organization.

“Funding, right now is critical,” Cato said. “We lost a lot of government funding from the state. More than ever, it’s vital we make every dollar go as far as it possibly can.”

ALAn KALteR oF the LAte shoW With DAViD LetteRMAn Joins the ReDheADs oF CeLeBRitY goLF

2010 Celebrity Rooster The celebrity roster will continue to change. Check www.hhcelebritygolf.com for updates.

Ken Anderson: Cincinnati Bengals, Bret Baier: FOX News, Henry Cho: Comedian, Javier Colon: Musician, Bobby Cremins: Coach, Doug Flynn: Cincinnati Reds, Alan Kalter: “Late Show with David Letterman,” Dwight Hicks: 49ers, Mark Malone: ESPN, Rob Marciano: CNN, Cheech Marin: Actor, Branford Marsalis: Musician, Sterling Sharpe: Green Bay Packers, Stephanie Schaeffer: The Apprentice, James “Bonecrusher” Smith: Boxer, Bucky Waters: Duke Basketball, Paul Williams, Singer/ Songwriter/Actor August 2010

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1) Brake fluid. When you dip the test strip into the fluid, it will turn one of the colors shown on the chart. Purple is bad and means you need to new break fluid. The darker the purple, the more the badness. 2) Background: Healthy brake rotor. Notice the smooth, shiny disc. Foreground: The disc has been completely worn away. This is what happens when you don’t replace worn out brake pads. Brake rotors should last through two sets of brake pads. If you let them get this bad, it’ll cost big bucks to fix... provided that you haven’t been killed in the inevitable wreck because the brakes can’t stop your car anymore! 3) Tire tread wear test that you can do at home! If you stick the penny in and the tread is deep enough to cover the top of Abe’s head, you’re good. Otherwise, get new tires soon. Of course, Abe must go into the tread head first to get an accurate reading. 4) Transmission fluid. The nice red one in the bottom tube is new transmission fluid, the way it should look. The top (darker fluid) is from an automatic transmission with about 45,000 miles on it. When the fluid looks like that, you should get your transmission flushed and the fluid replaced.

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Article by Frank Dunne, Jr.

Miles

T

he little Chevy’s been a pretty good friend over four years. At slightly more than 50,000 miles, though, it’s showing signs of age. With some very minor bodywork and attention to a couple of interior trim issues, she’ll look good as new. the really important thing is that, mechanically, the car is in excellent shape; the only repair I’ve had to make so far is a new set of front brake pads. Right now the ride is a little quirky because I need new tires, but other than that, it runs almost like new. I’d like to keep it that way for at least another 50,000 miles…maybe more.

It seems that I’m part of a trend that sam Johnson of Beachside tire & Auto observes at his shop. Customers who previously gave little thought to car maintenance, because they would just get a new car when things started wearing out, now look to Johnson for help in extending their vehicle’s life. “they didn’t plan to keep the car that long, so they didn’t pay much attention to maintenance. I also see a lot of people buying their car off of a lease. they never intended to buy the car, so they didn’t bother to maintain it,” he said.

“It used to be that the average car owner would keep a vehicle for about five years or less,” said Michael Lane of Carolina Bg, a supplier and consultant to Beachside. In fact, a 2009 August 2010

R.L. Polk & Co. study shows the average length of ownership increasing in the u.s. from 4.08 years to 4.7 years between 2002 and 2008, and the trend is continuing.

People are cutting back, and buying a new car is off the table for a lot of folks. Even the pre-owned car is not as attractive an option as before. With so much penny pinching going on, increased demand is driving prices up, providing further impetus for motorists to squeeze more bang for the buck out of the car that they own now.

According to Johnson, getting up to 200,000 miles of use from your car is not as far-fetched as you think. All you need is a commitment to scheduled maintenance; but that doesn’t mean following the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. “those maintenance schedules are not written for specific climate and driving conditions,” said Lane. “Fluids break down due to heat cycles.” For example, if you drive in Pennsylvania, your car isn’t going to be subjected to the extreme heat and humidity and salty air that we have here in coastal south Carolina. Likewise, it gets a lot colder in the winter up there than it does down here. Manufacturers’ maintenance schedules do not account for those differences, he explained. so, if you’re planning on keeping that car for a while, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. that doesn’t mean

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200,000 Miles

sam Johnson display a broken timing belt. A timing belt keeps the camshaft and crankshaft in sync.

you have to do it yourself, but it does mean you have to start paying attention to your vehicle and taking pre-emptive maintenance measures. It’s a lot more affordable than the major repairs that you’ll face down the road if you don’t.

No matter how faithful you’ve been to 10-minute oil changes, you’re not doing enough to extend your car’s life.

Yes, engine oil is critical, but there is much more to the story. transmission, power steering, brake and differential fluids need to be checked regularly and replaced when necessary. the problem with 10-minute oil changes is that they neglect the other fluids, brakes and other critical areas.

“When we do an oil change here, we check the entire car. We’re qualified to

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tell you exactly what your car needs,” said Johnson. A Beachside oil change includes 40 inspection points.

You won’t replace these other fluids as often as engine oil, but they do eventually break down and lose their lubricating properties. When that happens, big problems follow that will cost big bucks to fix.

Beachside tire & Auto is the only shop in the area to offer the Bg Products Lifetime Protection Plan, which will help you avoid those major breakdowns and cover the repair costs if they do happen. using the transmission as an example, here’s how it works:

extent of the damage, who performs the service, and other factors, a transmission overhaul or replacement could cost from $1,300 to $2,000. three transmission flushes would cost—at most—one third of that, and it would be spread over seven to eight years. Which would you rather do?

If you follow its scheduled service intervals, the protection plan will cover transmission repairs up to $2,000 if it does break down. the protection plan is offered for transmission, driveline, brake, power steering, coolant, engine and fuel line systems. the only requirement is that you follow the service interval schedule for all

BeACHsIDe tIre & AutO Is tHe ONLY sHOP IN tHe AreA tO Offer tHe Bg PrODuCts LIfetIme PrOteCtION PLAN, WHICH WILL HeLP YOu AvOID tHOse mAJOr BreAkDOWNs AND COver tHe rePAIr COsts If tHeY DO HAPPeN.

A transmission fluid flush should be done first at 36,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter. so the average driver shooting for 100,000 miles should have three transmission flushes during the life of the vehicle.

On average, a domestic built frontwheel-drive transmission, if not properly maintained, is likely to fail at 70,00090,000 miles. Depending on the car, the

systems and that you begin by 36,000 miles. However, if you begin after 36,000 but before 75,000 miles, you still qualify for 50 percent protection.

It’s like having a partner in your commitment to keeping your baby running like new for a lifetime. By the way, you also get 24-hour roadside assistance. so what about my Chevy? the Beachside crew looked it over

August 2010

and found that my fluids are all pretty healthy, and the rear brake pads are good, but getting close to needing replacement. this is good news, because I won’t have to pile anything on top of priority one: new tires.

Mine are completely shot. the treads are worn out and there are signs of dry rot; cracks or splits in the rubber caused by heat cycles and humidity. Dry rot can cause blowouts so you need to keep an eye out for it. to get the most mileage and safety out of your tires, maintain proper inflation, rotate regularly and keep the wheels aligned. this is especially important around here, because our roads develop a lot of ruts due to the soft roadbeds. the cool factor tempts me to stick with my original equipment, Pirelli tires, but Johnson offered some shopping advice that just might have me on a set of

August 2010

Kumhos by the time you read this. Brands like Yokohama, Kumho and Hankook have been challenging and beating out the bigger name brands in performance and satisfaction surveys for some time. I found that Kumho’s equivalent tire rates higher than my Pirellis and costs about $10 less per tire. since none of my fluids are in critical need of replacement, I can make the rear brake pads my next priority. Having your brakes inspected regularly—when you’re having other maintenance performed—is important, because the only other way you’re going to know the pads are worn is when they start making awful noises. By then, the rotors may already be damaged, and it’s big bucks to replace those.

Once that’s done, I can turn my attention to the Bg Protection Plan and get my fluid maintenance on track. since I’m beyond 36,000 miles I’ll qualify for 50 percent coverage, and I have until 75,000 miles to get all of the systems covered. this way I can plan ahead and budget for the services, one-by-one, according to what the guys at Beachside tell me is most critical.

I’m off to 100,000 miles and beyond.  Who’s coming with me?

Beachside Tire & Auto is located at 26-D Hunter Road. For information or an appointment, call (843) 342-7876.

www.celebratehiltonhead.com 49

C2 recently caught up with Gary Maurer, South Carolina’s top “magic man” and one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved entertainers. Find out what led him to his unique career and how he earned the title, South Carolina Magician of the Year!

C2: You were named South Carolina’s 2010 Magician of the Year! How did you earn this prestigious honor?

Gary Maurer: Every year at its annual convention in Columbia, the South Carolina Association of Magicians names a magician of the year. The South Carolina Association of Magicians is made up of members of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, an organization that has clubs throughout the state. Each club nominates and recommends a member, and that person’s name is sent to the South Carolina Association of Magicians. A committee of representatives from around the state then names the “South Carolina Magician of the Year.”

C2: Who or what was your inspiration for becoming a magician?

GM: I have always loved watching magic, but in 1986 I was at a convention in Pittsburgh, PA when a speaker was doing a presentation, and he was using magic to get his point across.

I thought that this would be something that I could use as a teacher in the classroom. Well, once I got the magic bug, it didn’t stop. I started attending magic meetings in my hometown of Allentown, PA and started attending lectures by nationally and internationally known magicians.

The magician who influenced me most was Harry Blackstone, Jr. I loved the way he presented his magic and the respect he showed for his audiences.

Many other magicians have influenced me, but they are not household names—magicians like Samuelson, Burton, Becker—to name a few.

C2: Did you have to go to a special school to learn magic, like Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry?

GM: I wish! Unfortunately, there are no schools or colleges where you can major in magic. I did join the local magic club (the Allentown Society of Magicians) and started attending its monthly meetings. I also started attending magic conventions where I would learn some magic from some of the leading magicians from around the world. But most of the learning of magic is by reading books on magic and sharing of magic techniques and ideas among each other. We actually have a local magic club on Hilton Head Island where we can perform for each other and hone our skills.

We also bring in lecturers who share their ideas and tricks with our members.

I am very lucky to have friends who are magicians or entertainers who have been willing to share their techniques and magic knowledge. Local guys like Fred Reisz, Mick Ayes and Keith Bogart and the other members of our club are a wealth of information that have helped to advance my knowledge base.

C2: How long have you been in the business?

GM: I started performing in 1986. I started by doing birthday parties and performing at arts festivals in PA and NJ. I would do several shows a month, but became a full-time entertainer about 12 years ago.

C2: What is your favorite trick or effect to perform?

GM: There are so many that it would be hard to name just one. Depending on the situation

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Page 7 Gate Opening

LOWCOUNTRY

LAWYERS }

WHETHER BUYING OR SELLING A NEW HOUSE, GETTING A DIVORCE OR JUST PLAIN GETTING OUT OF TROUBLE, CHANCES ARE

SOMEDAY YOU WILL NEED A LAWYER

}

In addition to profiles of many well known area attorneys and firms, our special “Lowcountry Lawyers”

section includes a feature on Lowcountry Legal Aid, non-profit organization that provides free advice, education and legal representation income –qualified families in our area. We also have a candid conversation with Judge “Ned” Tupper and talk to three local attorneys who are Death Penalty Certified.

AUGUST

2010

LOWCOUNTRY

LAWYERS

JUSTICE Article by Linda S. Hopkins

FOR

{ALL}

LOWCOUNTRY LEGAL AID

T

he American ideal of equal justice for all is the foundation of our nation. Yet this basic principle is tested every day when representation is out of reach for people who are facing civil legal problems and are unable to afford an attorney.

In 1998, recognizing the community need, local attorney Keri Olivetti, along with Hilton Head municipal court judge, Maureen Coffey, decided to do something about it by founding LowCountry Legal Aid (LCLA), a non-profit organization that provides free advice, education and legal representation to income-qualified families in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton Counties.

Since opening in August, 2000, LCLA has served over 2,400 clients.

At LCLA, you won’t find a plush reception room, fancy bookcases or stuffy lawyers. What you will find is a bare-bones facility and a team of volunteers who care about people and are willing to share their time and talents for the betterment of the community.

Currently, seven volunteer attorneys, operating on a special limited license to practice law in South Carolina on a pro bono basis, are handling over100 active cases, all of which must be overseen by a duly licensed attorney.

Bauer/metro

LOWCOUNTRY LEGAL AID

“I LIKE THE FACT THAT I AM ABLE TO USE MY EDUCATION TO BENEFIT SOMEBODY. I TAKE A LOT OF PRIDE IN THAT I AM ABLE TO HELP SO MANY.”

-TIFFANY MIKKELSON

DEATH PENALTY {CERTIFIED}

HEALTH

NOTE

AUGUST 2010

ALLERGY MYTHS…

[BUSTED] ARTICLE BY THOMAS BELLER

“I’M ALLERGIC TO THESE FLOWERS.” ALSO, “EATING LOCAL HONEY HELPS REDUCE YOUR ALLERGY SYMPTOMS.” BOTH OF THESE MYTHS ARE FALSE FOR THE SAME REASON.

As if suffering from allergies isn’t enough, many allergy sufferers have to sift through conflicting evidence to separate fact from fiction. To set the record straight, here are some of the more common myths about allergies and the facts that debunk them:

1) “I HAVE A HYPOALLERGENIC DOG.” There is absolutely no scientific evidence that any breed of dog is hypoallergenic. The allergenic proteins found in dogs that cause problems for allergy sufferers are called Can f 1 and Can f 2, short for Canis familiaris allergen 1 & 2. All dogs make these proteins, which are found in saliva and are secreted by sebaceous glands in the skin. The sebum deposits these proteins onto the hair and shedding skin cells (dander) of the dog. The dander is the primary contributor to allergy symptoms, not the hair.

Dogs that shed less hair or have shorter hair don’t produce less dander. All dogs produce



HEALTH

NOTE AUGUST 2010

AN ALLERGY TO SHRIMP HAS NO PREDICTIVE VALUE AS TO WHETHER SOMEONE WILL HAVE AN ALLERGY TO CONTRAST DYE. THE ALLERGENS IN SHRIMP ARE PROTEINS. THERE ARE NO TRUE ALLERGENS IN CONTRAST DYE.

THE LARGE MAJORITY OF SEASONAL ALLERGY SUFFERERS ARE NOT ALLERGIC TO PINE POLLEN. PINE POLLEN IS LARGE AND IS RELEASED IN CLUMPS. IT GENERALLY FALLS TO THE GROUND QUICKLY AND DOES NOT AEROSOLIZE LIKE SMALLER POLLENS.

August

t 2010

C2

Business Profiles

August 2010

P84

the tiki hut

toes in sand? CheCk. Frozen drink? CheCk! WelCome to the tiki-hut.

P88

the Player’s amateur at BelFair

For one Week in July, BelFair memBers lay out the red CarPet For aPProximately 90 toP amateur golFers From the u.s. and several other Countries.

P100

Funkey monkey!

keeP your eyes Peeled For a door Flanked By a large, over-stuFFed monkey, sitting in a BeaCh Chair, Wearing a Cool Pair oF shades. steP inside For ComPletely diFFerent shoPPing exPerienCe at hilton head island’s neWest and most unique sPeCialty store.

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samuel C. Bauer, attorney at laW

sam Bauer sPeCializes in Criminal deFense, Family laW, and Personal inJury. When something Falling Within these PraCtiCe areas haPPens in your liFe, it’s no time to Fool around. you need a laWyer, and the right one Can Be your Best Friend.

www.celebratehiltonhead.com 83

Article by Courtney Hampson • Photography by John Brackett

HOT SAND +

COLD DRINKS + A POSSIBLE SQUIRREL AND A SIDE OF PICKLES

= TIKI HUT

ow this is a math equation I can get behind.

And no, that is not a typo. JoJo Squirrell and the Home Pickles is the “house band” at the Tiki Hut. Founded over a decade ago, they have been entertaining Tiki Hut revelers with their wit and musical muse every weekend since.

The first time I hit the Tiki Hut, I was a visitor to the island, and was quickly introduced to the Squirrel and his accompanying Pickles. The next time I trekked to the Tiki, it was as a resident, with visiting friends (one, coincidentally nicknamed Pickles) to give them a sample of the local flavor.

My most recent foray was this past July 4th. Frankly, I was hesitant. I mean what nut goes onto the island on July 4th where an impending implosion of tourist traffic crowding the bar and spilling into the sand is likely? I was pleasantly surprised by a relaxing evening. Mike Korbar was singing. The sun was setting. Fireworks were sizzling. Margaritas were flowing.

N

“IT IS PRETTY REMARKABLE THAT WE’VE HAD PEOPLE RETURN EVERY SUMMER FOR 10 YEARS; WE KNOW THEIR NAMES AND THEY KNOW OURS. WHEN A CUSTOMER RETURNS, I KNOW WE HAVE MADE A FRIEND, AND WE CAN’T WAIT FOR OUR FRIENDS TO RETURN.” - Joanne Nash,

There is something almost therapeutic about sinking your toes into the sand, sharing a table with good friends, and listening to live music.

ArTicle by HilAry KrAus

T

he warm wishes were written with a touch of tongue-in-cheek humor.

After tracking Jin Jeong’s final round on the Internet of the British Amateur Championship in June, Belfair resident, Dan Coll, fired off an e-mail to the young South Korean golfer.

The 20-year-old, who trains in Australia, became the first Asian player to win the 125-year-old competition. The accomplishment secured him a spot in last month’s (July) U.S. British Open at St. Andrews, and an invitation to the 2011 Masters.

The excitement of the careerchanging win literally hit home for the Belfair couple. Coll and his wife, Sue have a special connection with Jeong since he and his coach stayed at their home during last summer’s Players Amateur at Belfair. The same arrangement had been made for this year’s tournament, the second week in July. “I wrote him about

P H o T o g r A P H y

b y

A n n e

Belfair Players Amateur Volunteers Carol Tyler, Ross and Nancy Kuykendall, and Kathy Cypher.

WINNERS 2000 Ben Curtis

PGA Tour titles, 3 2003 British Open winner 2010 top-10 finishes, 1 Career earnings: $9.6 million

2005 Brian Harman

2001 Michael Sims

Nationwide Tour Career earnings: $144,000

2006 Jonathan 2007 Rickie Fowler Moore

2010 top-10 finishes, 5 Career earnings: $2.7 million

2002 Bill Haas 2010 Bob Hope Classic winner 2010 top-10 finishes, 2 Career earnings: $6.3 million

2008 Mark Anderson

Career earnings: $82,000

2003 Camilo Villegas

2004 Aron Price

2009 Bud Cauley

2010 Kevin Tway

PGA Tour titles, 3 2010 The Honda Classic winner.

2010 top-10 finishes, 5 Career earnings: $12.4 million

University of Alabama

Career earnings: $853,000

Oklahoma State University

a:

Funkey Monkey

Article by Linda S. Hopkins • Photography by Anne

Alicia Tugwell

Funkey Monkey

L

ooking for a bold piece of jewelry to make an outfit pop? Need a distinctive handbag that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg? How about a unique accent for your home, an unusual gift or special souvenir? Head over to Pope Avenue and keep your eyes peeled for a door flanked by a large, over-stuffed monkey, sitting in a beach chair, wearing a cool pair of shades. Step inside for completely different shopping experience at Funkey Monkey, Hilton Head Island’s newest and most unique specialty store.

Open since February, 2010, tucked away in a nameless shopping strip (between Aunt Chilada’s and the Visitor’s Center), Funkey Monkey is quickly earning its place as a “must see” for visitors while becoming a frequent stop for locals as well.

According to owner, Alicia Tugwell, people are intrigued by the name and drawn in out of curiosity.

They aren’t quite sure what to expect, and she revels in their surprise and delight.

“Visitors find the name memorable and want to take back souvenirs that say ‘Funkey Monkey Hilton Head,’” she said, pointing out colorful plush monkeys wearing tiny T-shirts emblazoned with the store’s logo.

But souvenirs are a small part of the store’s eclectic inventory.

Tugwell’s flair for the unusual emerges in the selection of fashion jewelry, handbags, home accessories and giftware.

“I’ve never been afraid to do something different,” she said.

Tugwell’s flair for the unusual emerges in the selection of fashion jewelry, handbags, home accessories and giftware. “I’ve never been afraid to do something different,” she said, admitting that Funkey Monkey is a direct reflection of her independent nature and unique personal style. “There’s something nice about making a statement,” Tugwell added, flashing a smile and modeling a large flower ring. “Just put that on with [a simple outfit], and look how cute that is!”

The store is divided into separate rooms, allowing customers to leisurely peruse them all or hone in on a particular category of interest. For example, the back room is devoted to artwork, including prints by local impressionist, Candace Lovely, and a few other area artists. Another room is dedicated to unique accent pieces for the home, including pillows, statues, sconces, candlesticks and much more.

Up front, you’ll find earrings, rings, necklaces, key chains, handbags, evening bags, beach bags, shopping totes and other fashion accessories. Additional nooks and crannies display gift items and personal treasures such as decorative frames, stationery, jewelry boxes, Clic eyewear and Votivo soy-based candles. The “Kids’ Corner” features jewelry, handbags and souvenirs for the younger set. And there’s even a small section featuring unique kitchenware.

“We try to keep it fun so there’s something for everyone,” said Tugwell.

Price plus service equals satisfaction Besides the intriguing merchandise, it’s the attached tags and stickers that astonish. Tugwell prides herself on carrying specialized products at an affordable price. For example, you can pick up a great looking pair of earrings for as little as $8-10, a fabulous handbag for less than $50 and a sophisticated home accent for well under $100.

The Funkey Monkey experience is further enhanced by the charisma of its owner. Cheerful and spirited, Tugwell has a talent for turning customers into friends and vice versa. In fact, she says that interacting with people is one of the greatest joys of her job.

“I get everybody’s story,” she said. “I tell people where to go [for food and fun]. And if I had a dollar for every direction I gave…”

Tugwell’s friendly persona and dedication to customer service has served her well throughout her career. Originally from Arkansas, fresh out of college, she landed a prestigious ad sales position with FOX television. After ten successful years, she moved to Dallas, Texas, where she sold television ads for CBS for eight and a half years. The impetus to leave it all behind, she said, was the desire to provide a higher quality education and safer environment for her son, Taylor.

So, she loaded up the Hummer…Yes, she drives a Hummer. “It’s not that unusual where I came from,” said Tugwell. “In Dallas, you’ve gotta be king of the road!”

Today, Tugwell says she made the right decision to move here. Taylor, a recent graduate from Hilton Head Prep, is headed to USC this fall. Meanwhile, Tugwell is enjoying the break from the corporate world and the opportunity to express her creativity.

What’s in a name?

The store’s catchy name attracts attention, and that’s exactly what Tugwell intended. “I wanted a name that people would remember and like. I didn’t know exactly what I was going to sell or focus on, so I wanted it to be generic,” she said. She found inspiration on a sign board in a South African village while on safari with Taylor. “They were selling woven baskets or something,” she said. “The name is fun, and I’m an animal lover.”

Tugwell has followed through with the jungle theme in the store, but in a tasteful way that doesn’t overpower or detract from the quality and beauty of the merchandise. A bamboo tiki bar with a grass thatch roof sets the tone and serves as the check-out counter.

Animal-themed rugs and merchandise scattered throughout tie it all together. As the finishing touch, Tugwell plans to line the ceiling with tree branches and lanterns. She said, “I want people out there saying, ‘you’ve gotta go see that store.’”  Funkey Monkey is located at 71 Pope Avenue, next door to The Grumpy Grouper. Store hours are TuesdaySaturday, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Stop in today and dare to be different! For more information, call (843)715-0512.

{{ Bauer & Metro

Samuel

C.

Bauer attorney at Law

“H

opefully, you’ll never have to hire me,” said attorney Samuel C. Bauer of the Bauer & Metro law firm. It’s probably not the most effective sales pitch you will ever hear, but attorney is one of those professionals of which we vigorously avoid becoming customers. Hiring a lawyer often means that something has gone terribly wrong.

Sam Bauer specializes in criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. When something falling within these practice areas happens in your life, it’s no time to fool around. You need a lawyer, and the right one can be your best friend. The wrong one…let’s not even think about it. Experience is important, and with over 500 jury trials to his credit in local, state, and federal courts both here in Beaufort County and in Alabama, Bauer certainly brings experience to the table.

There are a lot of good, smart lawyers out there. However, unless you have a lawyer in the family or a trusted referral, how do you know if the lawyer you choose is going to fight like your case is the only one on his desk? You need to look beyond the résumé and find out what really makes the guy tick. You want somebody who is going to fight for your interests because it is in his blood to do so.

Upon receiving his law degree from the University of Alabama, Bauer had accepted a United Nations appointment as Administrative Land Judge for Trinidad & Tobago. “While I was waiting in Mobile, Alabama for the ship to sail, a judge asked me to try a pro-bono burglary case,” said Bauer. “Standing in front of a jury for the first time was all it took. I knew that this was what I wanted to do.” It is in his blood, and that’s a good thing to know if you are charged with a crime. That and the knowledge that your defense attorney is the kind of guy who’ll leave no stone unturned in his quest for the truth.

“I was appointed to defend an older gentleman charged with murder,” said Bauer, recounting another criminal case. The defendant claimed that he had acted in self-defense and Bauer believed him, but that would have been impossible to prove given only the sheriff’s department’s facts of the case.

“All they had was that the alleged victim (who was significantly younger than and outweighed the defendant by about 30 pounds) was killed in my client’s driveway, and that he was my client’s wife’s paramour,” said Bauer. It was therefore assumed that Bauer’s client had committed a revenge killing, and the police had turned up no witnesses to say otherwise.

The client insisted that there were witnesses, but the incident

Something old, Something new, white Beach Borrowed, canopy of Blue? we’ve narrowed down the liSt of venue optionS and now it’S up to the choSen couple to decide where to get hitched.

“m

y Dad always hoped I’d be married on Hilton Head Island,” says Get Hitched Bride-To-Be Julie Klein. “We have so many fond memories of summers here and really, could we wish for a better backdrop?” Julie and fiancé, Dave Battiste, will have their wedding wish come true this fall on Hilton Head.

They were recently selected by thousands of voters to receive this privilege based on their compelling love story and a unanimous nod by six celebrity judges. It didn’t hurt to have the city of Pittsburgh behind them. Local TV stations and newspapers quickly picked up the news of the Get Hitched on Hilton Head wish-fulfillment campaign, and the fans multiplied.

With a landslide victory behind them, the couple is transitioning from celebration mode to planning the November wedding weekend. First things first, and the priority at the moment is to choose from four featured venues offered by the Get Hitched on Hilton Head Sponsor Team. The venues are offered with a theme, and all include premium island locations for the wedding ceremony followed by a reception for family and friends. Here are Julie and Dave’s choices:

venue optionS >

Photo by Tim Zielenbach THE COuPLE MAY CHOOSE A SunSET CEREMOnY On THE HARBOuR TOWn LInkS OvERLOOkInG CALIBOGuE CAY. Photo by Mark Staff

Luxury OceanfrOnt Wedding—offered by ResortQuest Ceremony Site: The Beach at a Signature Deluxe Oceanfront Home.

Reception Site: Terrace/Deck and Lawn surrounding outdoor pool area, facing ocean.

Members of the bridal party can wiggle their toes in the sand during the ceremony on the beach in front of one of ResortQuest’s impressive oceanfront residences. The breathtaking seaside celebration features seating by the ocean while the bride and groom exchange vows in unison with the gentle roar of the waves nearby. A pool and patio reception follows, complete with delectable buffet, premium bar, live entertainment and exceptional service by Celebrations Catering & Events.

kEEPInG WITH THE MARITIME THEME, A LOvELY WATERFROnT RECEPTIOn WOuLD FOLLOW AT WInDOWS On THE WATERWAY On SkuLL CREEk.

MaritiMe theMed Wedding – offered by Sea Pines Resort and Celebrations Catering & Events Ceremony Site: The Lawn on the 18th Green at the Harbour Town Links.

Reception Site: Windows on the Waterway overlooking the Intra-Coastal Waterway, Hilton Head Plantation.

One of the most famous and scenic settings at The Sea Pines Resort, this venue offers guests a stunning view of the Calibogue Sound and the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. Here, the bride and groom would share a casual, yet elegant outdoor ceremony featuring the iconic candy-striped lighthouse towering in the background.

With a spectacular view of the Intra-Coastal Waterway and brilliant evening sunsets, Celebrations’ signature reception venue is the perfect complement to the ceremony in Harbour Town. At Windows on the Waterway, the party extends from inside-out, to a spacious wrap around porch and waterfront lawn. From seated dinner to full buffet, and passed rounds of champagne, the warm and friendly staff accommodates with flair that is at the core of a truly memorable wedding.

THIS CHARMInG GARDEn SETTInG AT MAIn STREET Inn PROMISES An InTIMATE WEDDInG ExPERIEnCE FOR THE LuCkY BRIDE AnD GROOM.

Photo by John Brackett

eurOpean-StyLe garden Wedding—offered by The Main Street Inn Ceremony Site: The Gardens at Main Street Inn. Reception Site: The Parlor, Library, Dining Rooms and Gardens at Main Street Inn. Picture this: ivy and jasmine adorned Roman-style archways and trickling fountains beckon from the lush, meandering gardens.

Classical chamber music and a touching champagne toasts fill the air as The Main Street Inn hosts yet another intimate, romantic wedding and reception. This intimate inn affords privacy and attention to the smallest detail. The charming island enclave also features 33 guest rooms, including several lavish bridal suites.

Located on the north end of the island outside Hilton Head Plantation. The beautifully decorated Living Rooms, lovely English Garden and pool typlifies gracious Southern hospitality.

RESORTQuEST’S OCEAnFROnT WEDDInG-AnD-RECEPTIOn OFFER WOuLD RESEMBLE THIS STunnInG SETTInG.

Photo by Dreamland Images

TradiTional lowcounTry wedding—offered by The Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn Ceremony Site: The Discovery House or Marshside Terrace.

Reception Site: Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion or Marshside Terrace.

Getting Hitched on Hilton Head doesn’t necessarily entail palm trees or a beach setting. This low country estate would find the bride and groom marrying under huge live oaks draped with Spanish moss. The Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn is a majestic, historic 68-acre property that offers both indoor and outdoor options for the bride and groom, including a sweeping 4,000-squarefoot covered pavilion, lovely marshside terrace with fountain overlooking Jarvis Creek and bright, expansive rooms inside the Discovery House. Here, a multitude of reception scenarios will be presented by a premier catering & event establishment, ensuring wonderful service and a personable approach to each and every wedding day moment at The Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn.

INDoor AND ouTDoor oPTIoNS Are AvAIlAble For THe GeT HITCHeD CereMoNy AND reCePTIoN AT THe CoASTAl DISCovery MuSeuM AT HoNey HorN.

Decisions… decisions! Julie and Dave have some challenging ones ahead as they ponder the ultimate location for the November nuptials. Fortunately, there isn’t a wrong choice among the above venues which are the contributions of five gracious sponsors who have made many wishes possible as Get Hitched on Hilton Head proceeds to the altar. note: The September issue of CH2 will feature Julie and Dave’s final choice for wedding and reception venue.

2

ARTICL E BY LE W WES PHOTO SEL GRAPH Y BY A NNE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

THE NEW HEALTH CARE

PLAN

TIENT PACA)” S THE “PA NOWN A BLE CARE ACT (P ATION K ’S IT , LY C A U D E D N OFFICIAL N AND AFFORD H CARE A IO T LT C A E E T H O E R P H 10.

DED BY T AS AMEN IATION ACT OF 20 IL C N E.” O REC AMACAR LL IT, “OB A C S U F OST O OR, AS M

I

used to object to the latter title, but we’ve all been calling the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001, the “Bush tax cuts” for a decade, so what the heck?

Got an opinion on this PPACA thing? Of course you do. A strong opinion, I’ll bet. Read it? Know what it actually mandates? Uh… Okay, I haven’t read the entire thing either (hey, for that matter, show me a CFO who has read every page of his 10K); but I have spent over a dozen hours reading analyses of it and have sat through a couple of excellent webinars on the subject, and I think I’ve got somewhat of a handle on the facts.

Here’s what you need to know.

Something Big Is Coming…But Not Yet Whether for political reasons or because they actually got it right, the major changes to the health care system and most

of the major new taxes to pay for it as prescribed in the PPACA don’t go into effect until 2013 and 2014. This delay will hopefully give us breathing room to adjust ourselves to the new rules and avoid the economic jolt like the one that accompanied the Tax Reform Act of 1986. Here is a chronology of the changes in the law:

2010

First Signs of Change

The biggest thing happening in 2010 is a very generous tax credit to incentivize small businesses to pay for health insurance for their employees or to reward the small businessperson who has already done so. The credit—up to 35 percent of premiums paid—is available now through 2013 to companies that pay at least 50 percent of their employees’ health premiums. Eligible companies are those with up to 25 employees making an average

FIRST SIGNS OF CHANGE 106

The biggest thing happening in 2010 is a very generous tax credit to incentivize small businesses to pay for health insurance for their employees or to reward the small businessperson who has already done so.

AUGUST 2010 www.celebratehiltonhead.com



of less than $50,000 per year. The credit goes up to 50 percent in 2014 and 2015 for small companies purchasing health care insurance through the “Exchanges” (see below).

Other important mandated changes to health care plans, most taking effect on September 23 of this year, are removal of annual and lifetime limits, restricting rescission rights(as in cancelling your health insurance because you get sick), and extension of dependent coverage up to age 27.

The most immediate change, schedule for July 1, 2010, is enactment of a 10 percent excise tax on tanning salon services. I have some very good friends who are upset about this one, but hopefully they won’t notice it until October. Seems to me anyone going to a tanning salon on Hilton Head Island during the summer deserves to be taxed.

2011 -2012 Politics Prevail Not a whole lot is going to happen due to the PPACA in 2011 and absolutely nothing in the 2012 election year—duh.

108

www.celebratehiltonhead.com

2013 Fire up the engine Here’s where the big stuff starts.

Obama said he was going to pay for this thing, and so, in addition to direct fees on health insurance companies, manufacturers of prescription drugs and medical devices and the tan tax described above, there will be some new taxes on high-income individuals.

• NEW 0.9 Percent Medicare Tax on Wages of High-Income Employees.

Beginning in 2013, wages and selfe m p l oy m e n t i n c o m e i n exc e s s o f $250,000 for a couple and $20,0000 for an individual will be subject to an extra 0.9 percent tax. This means that a couple earning $350,000 in combined wages will pay an extra $900 per year. This additional tax is assessed only to the employee; unlike other FICA assessments, there is no employer match.

• NEW 3.8 Percent Medicare Tax On Investment Income of High Earners.

Also beginning in 2013, there will be a new 3.8 percent tax on net investment income of those earning over a threshold

income amount of $250,000 per couple or $200,000 for an individual. This is historic, as it is the first time unearned income has been tapped to help fund Medicare. The tax will be on the LESSER of net investment income or modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of the threshold amount. As an example, if the Jones’ have total income of $300,000 and investment income of $20,000, they will pay an extra $760 in tax (3.8 percent times $20,000, because it is less than the $50,000 their income exceeds the threshold.) Investment income includes interest, dividends, annuities, rents and passive income, but does NOT include withdrawals from retirement accounts such as IRAs or “401Ks. It also does not include municipal bond interest or “active” income from Sub S corporations or partnerships.

Note that anyone earning under the threshold amounts of $200,000 for individuals and $250,000 for a couple is NOT subject to either new tax. Also in 2013, medical expenses are only deductible on Schedule A if they exceed 10 percent of AGI instead of the current 7.5 percent, although, just to further complicate things, this change is delayed till 2017 for anyone age 65 or older.

AUGUST 2010

2014 BLAST OFF!! “Socialism” or “Shared Responsibility” Here’s the deal: Every state must establish health insurance “Exchanges” by 1/1/2014 that make qualified plans ava i l a b l e to i n d i v i d u a l s a n d s m a l l businesses (under 100 employees). These exchanges will be Internet-based and “Navigator” sites, such as ones established now for Medicare Part D, will be available for assistance in choosing between plans.

Qualified plans will be offered from Bronze to Platinum levels, but all will be required to include a basic range of comprehensive medical services, including emergency room services. Qualified plans cannot discriminate based on age, disability or life expectancy; i.e. the age of denial of benefits based on pre-existing conditions ends.

Starting in 2014, every U.S. citizen will be required to have “minimum essential health coverage” or pay a penalty.

Coverage can be a government plan such

AUGUST 2010

as Medicare or Medicaid, a grandfathered group or individual health plan (a plan you were on as of 3/23/2010) or an eligible group or individual plan purchased through an Exchange. Some citizens are exempt, including those below the taxfiling income threshold (currently $9,350 for an individual) and Native Americans.

In addition, short-term lapses in coverage will not be penalized.

Penalties to individuals for noncoverage begin at $95 per person per year in 2014 and grow to $695 per year in 2016. The IRS will administer the penalty but has virtually no tools to do so. It can’t file a tax lien or reduce your refund. Why such an anemic penalty system? Probably a result of poor politics, but perhaps the point is to just make someone think twice and at least check out the Exchanges before they decide to show up in the emergency room without insurance.

On the incentive side, a refundable Premium Assistance Credit (PAC) and cost-sharing reduction payments (help

with co-pays, etc.) are available to individuals with household incomes ranging from 100 to 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). Contrary to rumor, this assistance is only available to citizens or legal aliens. The assistance levels are on a sliding scale and are based on the percentage the insurance premium represents of an individual or a household’s total income. These assistance payments will be made directly from the Treasury to the insurance companies on behalf of individuals who have enrolled in a plan offered in the Exchange.

Large Businesses Companies with 50 or more employees may incur significant penalties if they do not offer their employees at least minimum coverage that is affordable. (Note: seasonal employees will NOT be included in the employee count).

The penalty is assessed if two conditions apply: 1) Even just one employee has to

www.celebratehiltonhead.com 109



LARGE BUSINESSES buy insurance on an Exchange due to no coverage or “unaffordable” coverage available through the large employer and 2) that employee qualifies for a PAC or cost-sharing reduction.

Unlike the individual penalties described above, the penalties to a business are steep (up to $3,000 annually per employee) and will be a strong incentive to comply with the PPAPC.

Some Personal Thoughts

Heritage pest control

In this day and age, it seems almost quaint to learn the facts about an issue when just making up stuff and getting loud is so much easier and more fun. The fact is, the health care bill does not mandate “death panels” nor does it kick you off of your current health care plan—these plans are specifically grandfathered in the bill. The fact also is that the PPACA is far from perfect and is, in many ways, downright weird.

Something had to be done. Our health care system was, and still is, wildly inefficient at best, just plain “broken” at worst. The PPACA is a first wobbly step to fix it, and it’s a messy hodgepodge of mandates, subsidies and revenue raisers.

But, what more can we expect with a Congress made up of an intransigent Republican party determined to undermine any “win” by a Democratic president and a panicked Democratic party desperate to prove it can pass a bill…any bill.

Until the shouting dies down, this is, unfortunately, the best we’ll be able to do.

Might as well learn what’s in the thing and deal with it.

To comment or for more information, e-mail lewwessel@hargray.com.

AUGUST 2010

www.celebratehiltonhead.com 111

“You don’t suppose alligators walk around at night do you?”

Naaah!

ARTICLE BY HILARY KRAUS

BEWARE OF ALLIGATOR

W

ith the island bursting at the seams with tourists this time of year, we thought it was high time for a brush-up course on our favorite lagoon loungers: gators. Yes, we think they’re pretty special too, but common sense tells us to admire them from a distance.

For the skinny on the topic, we turned to expert, Bill Karijanian of Critter Management, Inc., gator aid to thousands of residents and tourists for nearly 20 years. Karijanian says he receives about 200 alligator-related calls a year. Here are a few of his tips:

with food. They have very small brains and don’t know people are not food. And being mistaken for a t-bone steak could be harmful to your health.

a Kodak (or Sandisk) moment could cost you an arm and a leg. Spotting an alligator while out for a bike ride, a walk, or sightseeing screams “photo-op.” After all, how cool would that be on your Facebook page? On the contrary, it’s just the photo opp-osite! Dismiss the idea of getting close enough to see the blacks of the gators’ eyes. Take pictures from a distance.

Karijanian has seen people dangle their little ones over the edge of lagoons just to get a picture with an alligator. That’s just downright dangerous and stupid. It is impossible to know the disposition of a gator or whether it’s a female protecting her babies or eggs.

rePTile gawKing done rigHT H2O Sports, on the pier at Harbour Town Marina in Sea Pines Resort, offers a safe place to check out alligators. Erin Dyer, manager of the nature center at 149 Lighthouse Rd., said people should stop by to see Cali and Bogey. (Get it? Calibogue).

The 8-month-old critters came from Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach. Admission is free.

For a fee, you can go out on the water with H2O Sports captains, who are U.S. Coast Guard licensed and trained specifically in the areas where they work.

“They do this day in and day out and know where all the  alligator dens are,” Dyer said.

Feeding could turn into a frenzy. Don’t feed an alligator no matter how tempted you are to get a closer look. It’s the worst thing to do, because alligators start to associate people

AUGUST 2010

let go of that $4 ProV 1 (or discount-bin X-out). It’s easier for a golfer to take a drop and play on rather than get a few feet away from an alligator to retrieve a ball. You don’t know what the gator is going to do. (Remember, small brain.) For those who find themselves in the terrifying predicament of getting chased, it doesn’t matter if you take off in a beeline dash or calmly walk away. Just get outta there.

For information, visit www.h20sportsonline.com or call (843) 686-5323.

www.celebratehiltonhead.com 113

THE LOCALS INDEX YOUR TOOL FOR FINDING THE BEST DISCOUNTS IN TOWN

EATS SWEETS SPIRITS Amigo's Café Cantina, p. 116 133 Belfair Towne Village, 815-TACO (8226) Free Chips - See Ad For Details Antonio’s Fine Dining, p. 25 Village At Wexford, 842-5505 See Ad For Details Aunt Chilada’s Easy Street Cafe, p. 124 (Back Cover) 69 Pope Avenue, 785-7700 See Ad For Details Callahan's, p. 67 New Orleans Rd., 843-686-7665 10% Off Food Captain Woody’s, p. 80 Palmetto Bay Marina, 785-2400, 10% Off Food Chocolate Canopy, Ltd., p. 86 Palmetto Bay Rd, 842-4567 10% Off Non-Sale Items (with minimum purchase) Cookies By Design, p. 48 Sea Turtle Cinemas, 706-9505 15% Off Any Purchase with CH2 Card CQ’s Restaurant, p. 96 Harbour Town, 671-2779 See Ad For Details

Jump & Phil’s Bar and Grill, p. 116 Hilton Head Plaza, 785-9070 10% Off Food Kingfisher, p. 79 Shelter Cove Marina, 785-4442 10% Off Food Market Street Café, p. 77 Coligny Plaza, 686-4976 10% Off Entire Check Mellow Mushroom Pizza, p. 25 Park Plaza, 686-2474 10% Off Ocean Grille, p. 78 1 Shelter Cove, 843-785-3030 See Ad For Details Old Fort Pub, p. 80 Hilton Head Plantation, 681-2386 See Ad For Details Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, p. 79 Palmetto Bay Marina, 686-3232 10% Off Monday-Friday Parrot Cove, p. 74 Waterside at Shelter Cove Harbour, 341-3500 All You Can Eat CARB LEGS! 10% Off with Celebrate Card Paulie's Coal Fired Pizza, p. 17 Berkeley Place, 757-3500 See Ad For Details

The Electric Piano, p. 27 Park Plaza, 785-5397 10% Off Fancy Q: Sushi Bar & Grill, p. 25 435 William Hilton Pkwy, Northridge Plaza, Unit G 843-342-6626 10% Off with your CH2 Card Flamingo's Doughnuts Café, p. 104 Park Plaza Shopping Center, 686-4606 But 3 Specialty Doughnuts Get 1 Free Honey Baked Ham, p. MAP SECTION 1060 Fording Island Rd., 815-7388 15% Off Total Purchase Island Bagel Company, p. 116 South Island Square (Hilton Head), 843-686-3353 Sheridan Park (Bluffton), 843-815-5300 20% Off Next Bill Jalapenos - Mexican Grille, p. 116 Bridgge Center (Across from Moss Creek) 757-5831, 2 For 1 Entrees & $2 Margaritas 10% Off with Celebrate Card Jazz Corner, p. 80 The Village of Wexford, 843-842-8620 20% Off Food Bill Jocks Blufftons Sports Bar and Grill, p. 104 95 Baylor Dr. (Publix Shopping Center) Bluffton, 815-7474 See Ad For Details

Pino Gelato, MAP SECTION 1000 William Hilton Parkway, 842-2822 1 FREE Scoop Of Gelato Reilley’s Grill & Bar, p. 124 (Back Cover) Hilton Head Plaza, 842-4414, Port Royal Plaza, 681-4153 See Ad For Details Riptide Liquor & Fine Wines, p. 50 50 Burnt Church Road, 757-6344 95 Baylor Drive, 757-7404 10% Off with Celebrate Card Salty Dog Cafe, p. 8 See Ad For Details Skillets Café, p. 15 Coligny Plaza, 785-3131 10% Off any $6.95 (or more) purchase Stu's Subs, p. 119 Coligny Plaza, 686-SURF (7873) 10% Off Wild Wing Cafe, p. 5 Hilton Head - 843-785-9464 or Bluffton - 837-9453 See Ad For Details

HEALTH FITNESS BEAUTY Coolidge Plastic Surgery, p. 92 208-2808 See Ad For Details Core Pilates, p. 48 32 Office Park Road, Suite 306, 681-4267 Courtyard Building $5 Off Summer Work Out Tanks Dr. Liz Shelly, p. 67 Red Cedar St., 837-5553 FREE New Patient Exam Faces Day Spa, p. 48 The Village at Wexford, 785-3075 See Ad For Details Heavenly Spa by Westin, p. 77 2 Grasslawn Ave., Port Royal Plantation, 681-1019 See Ad For Details Hilton Head Dental, p. 93 400 Merchant Street, 681-6200 16 Wm. Pope Drive, 705-7675 See Ad For Details Hilton Head Dentistry p. 114 843-342-7700, www.HiltonHeadDentistry.com Call For A Free Consultation Hilton Head Occupational Therapy, p. 29 32 Office Park Road - 843-757-9292 FREE Brochure, See Ad For Details Island Family Dental, p. 119 Professional Building, Suite 202, 842-3555 Complimentary Cosmetic Consultation Optical Solutions, p. 119 North-Island, 843-681-6682 or 843-681-8188 Mid-Island, 843-785-8008 TRUNK SHOW - See Ad For Details The Sanctuary - A European Day Spa, p. 104 Park Plaza, 843.842.5999 See Ad For Details Stephens Pharmacy, p. 50 2 Marshland Rd. in the HH Health & Wellness Building, 686-3735 See Ad For Details Tables For Two, p. 79 843-338-9067, www.wisdomhealth.com See Ad For Details

Wine Times 4, p. MAP SECTION 1000 William Hilton Parkway, 341-9463 15% Off Lunch or Lite Tapas Plates

SHOPS / BOUTIQUES GALLERIES & MORE

Palmettoes, p. 110 71 Lighthouse Road, Ste., 414, 363-6800 See Ad For Details

Doncaster / Tanner Outlet, p. 114 Pineland Station- 689.6494 25% Off Any Single Item

iTS Classics (Uniform Work & Sport) p. 26 E Hunter Road, 681-3002 See Ad For Details

Sports Addiction, p. 116 Sheridan Park, 843-815-8281 15% Off Next 1 Item Purchase

Fresh Produce, p. 86 Coligny Plaza, 842-3410 10% Off Non-Sale Items with CH2 Card

Jamaican Me Crazy, p. 86 Coligny Plaza, 785-9006 10% Off Non-Sale Items

Tail-Waggers, p. 120 Coligny Plaza, 686-3707 10% Off Purchase, Excluding Cat & Dog Food

The Great Frame Up, p. 67 Belfair Towne Village 815-4661 See Ad For Details

Legends Sports Gallery, MAP SECTION 1505 Main Street Village, 681-4444 20% Off Any Item

Tanger Outlets, p. 5 FREE Summer Savings Shopping Card (Must Show Ad)

 FUNKEY MONKEY

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Oh And It's All AFFORDABLE! 71 POPE AVE. (SOUTH END)

843.715.0512 · Tues. - Sat. 10AM - 6PM

SERVICES American Paving Designs, p. 21 843-706-PAVE (7283) www.AmericanPavingDesigns.com $250 Off Next Project American Wood Reface, p. 23 40 Pennington Drive, Suite C, Sherridan Park 843-815-6700 See Ad For Details Beachside Tire & Auto, p. 21 26 Hunter Rd., 342-7876 See Ad For Details Boathouse Storage, p. 56 405 Squire Pope Road, 681-2628 $100 OFF a Full Annual Service Brooke’s Bed & Biscuit, p. 120 25 Buck Island Road, 757-PETS (7387) Receive A Free Toenail Clipping Bruno Landscape & Nursery, p. 26 109 Dillion Rd. 843-682-2624 15% Off Nursery Purchase Bug Busters, p. 26 1-800-633-0694 10% Off All All Initial Services Celebration Events Catering, p. 23 689-7526, Call For Details Covert Aire, p. 44 706-5090, See Ad for Details E.A.C., p. 106 681-3999, See Ad For Details Epperson Heating & Air, p. 93 843-681-9297, See Ad For Details Foskey Heating & Air, p. 107 1 Promenade Street, Suite 102 681-HEAT (4328), See Ad For Details The Green Thumb, p. 104 Hwy. 278 at Burnt Church Road, 757-9550 10% Off All Your Lawn & Plant Needs See Ad For Details Island Car Wash, p. 84 Hwy. 278, 785-9274, Kitties Crossings, 815-4666 - $5 Off Gold Wash Mattress Firm, p. 13 1172 Fording Island Road 837-FIRM (3476), See Ad For Details Reel Screens, p. 107 422-1789, Free In-Home Demonstration Superior Heating & Air Inc, p. 50 39 Persimmon Rd. Unit 202, 682-COOL (2665) See Ad For Details West Wind Construction p. 57 843-290-9369, www.WestWindConstruction.com Call For A Free Consultation

USE THIS CARD TO SAVE ON LOCAL DEALS!

ACTIVITIES Dolphin Head Golf Club, MAP SECTION 681-5550, EXT. 222, www.dolphinheadgc.com 50% Off New Memberships

North Ridge Cinema, p. 116 342-3800 See Ad For Details

Golden Bear Golf, p. 29 72 Golden Bear Way, 845-689-2200 See Ad For Details

Outside Hilton Head, p. 15 & MAP SECTION 1-800-686-6996, www.outsidehiltonhead.com See Ads For Details

Kayak Hilton Head, p. MAP SECTION 684-1910, www.kayakhiltonhead.com $15 Off Adults / 50% Off Kids On Kayak Tours

Quality Golf Cars, p. 29 212 Okatie Village Drive, Bluffton, 705-6655 See Ad For Details

Lowcountry Golf Cars, p. 29 649 N. Okatie Highway, 987-8272 See Ad For Details

Vagabond Cruise, MAP SECTION 149 Lighthouse Road, 363-9026 $5 Off Adult Ticket & $5 Gate Pass Refund

Mulligan's Golf Balls & More, p. 29 102 Buckwalter Pkwy, 815-2621 See Ad for Details

EXTREMELY EXTREMELYIMPORTANT IMPORTANTDISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! BECAUSE BECAUSETHERE THEREISISNO NOACCOUNTING ACCOUNTINGFOR FORHUMAN HUMANERROR...ADVERTISERS ERROR...ADVERTISERSAND ANDC2 C2ARE ARENOT NOT HELD HELDRESPONSIBLE RESPONSIBLEFOR FORTHE THEDISCOUNTS DISCOUNTSAND ANDINFORMATION INFORMATIONLISTED LISTEDON ONTHIS THISPAGE. PAGE.

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