Photography by Matthew Garbade, Edge of Reality Production
Lisa Staff Photography
Photography by Hunter Acker
Marissa Elise Photography
Find Us Here PO Box 22949
Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
843.816.6247
maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com
JUNE2025
With the rise and proliferation of social media within our industry and (almost) everyone else’s, I’ve found it important to create additional content that not only lives within these pages, but also online. That content is on our website, on issuu.com/celebrat (where you can find the last 18 years worth of our magazines in a flipthrough format) and on social media, where we reach an average of 250,000 people monthly via Instagram, Facebook and Tik-Tok posts.
While some may bemoan the fact that this creates an unending pile of extra work for a marketing team, I have found these various channels exhilarating – it allows us to pop into your world almost daily – when it used to be just once a month when the new issue hit stands and mailboxes.
In my view, the possibilities are endless as we find ways to make what we do in the magazine come to life through video. The mediums feed each other, in a way I am sure no one ever expected. Most of the time, the video supports the content already in the magazine –with behind the scenes making of the features.
This month, however, we did it the other way around, with a magazine feature supporting CH2’s latest music video collab with Jevon Daly, and quite frankly, hundreds of locals who came out in droves to be a part of “Hilton Head Looks Good on You,” a love letter of sorts to the place we all call home. (See the feature on page 28 and
set your calendar reminders for June 11 at 8 p.m. when we will premiere it on Facebook and Instagram.)
Other stories in this issue that jump off the pages through video content are the feature on Lawton Stables (page 66), our summer fashion feature starring some gorgeous cars courtesy of Carolina Dreamers Car Club (page 50), and Summer Salads on a Yacht, our latest recipe feature with friends Chef Lynn Michelle and Cassandra Shultz (page 100).
We hope you enjoy the first of three fun summer issues, and soak in all that Hilton Head Island has to offer this season – whether you live here or are just visiting.
Cheers!
Jevon Daly shoots a scene in the music video "Hilton Head Looks Good on You" near South Beach Marina.
Jevon Daly and Maggie Washo end a 14-hour-day of shooting with the opening shot at the top of the Harbour Town lighthouse, thanks to Sea Pines Resort.
Trevor Harden, Jevon Daly and Maggie Washo shoot a scene in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
Hilton Head Looks Good on You
JEVON DALY’S NEWEST MUSIC VIDEO IS A LOVE LETTER TO THE ISLAND
Few art forms have the power to evoke pure emotion as the music video. Purists may scoff, rolling their eyes behind their opera glasses at the notion that any story can be artfully told in under four minutes. But those of us who grew up in the MTV era, when the titans of music had to be as comfortable in front of the camera as in front of an audience, we understand the power that those four minutes can have.
In Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” we watched as famed director Jon Landis brought the same chilling eye for the macabre that made “An American Werewolf in London” a classic to the small screen, petrifying us as zombie hordes bore down on the King of Pop. In “November Rain,” the same director who helmed the English National Opera’s production of Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” took us on a journey through love, loss, and cinematically epic guitar solos. And in Johnny Cash’s “Hurt,” director Mark Romanek painted a haunting portrait of a musical icon taking one last look back as he neared the end.
Jevon Daly’s newest music video, a tour of our community set to the strains of his tune “Hilton Head Looks Good On You,” does not attempt to achieve such artistic heights. Indeed, it would be a pretty abrupt about-face for the artist who rocked a shark costume in “Sharks Are Our Homies” to come at us with something too heartfelt. That said, this video presents us with one simple truth that most of us already knew – this is a very special place to call home.
“I guess that’s what I was going for when I wrote this. Everybody always says, ‘Jevon, you need to write something serious.’ Even though on the surface this is a fun song, I feel like it’s kind of nostalgic sounding,” said Daly. “I made a kid cry with this song one time at the Dunes House. Her mother came up to me after the show and said, ‘Your song really resonated with my daughter.’ I thought she was joking.”
Woo Hoo Wee Hee Hilton Head Looks Good on Me
The first step in the process was to lock down the stars of the video – the people who make the island a home. The call went out, as most things do, on social media, where Maggie and Jevon took a break from “doin’ Lowcountry stuff” to solicit help from the community.
Daly listens for a cue from Harden at The Beach House.
The 6 a.m. Crew! (from left to right:) Jacqueline Hayworth, Amos Hummell, Lynne Hummell, Daniel Roth, Charlie Schroeder, Stacy Stiffler Williams, David Adams, Jevon Daly, Anthony Mervin, Bridget Coan, Bill Althoff, Jim Brown, Marika Althoff, Dave Peck and Catherine Davies.
Piggly Wiggly's Dave Martin shoots a scene with Lane Bradberry, Daly, Palmer Pritchard and Kim Crouch.
Jeffrey Reeves, Barry Kaufman, Andrea Gannon, Autumn Frasher, Jevon Daly and Trevor Harden shoot a scene at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.
You can't make a video about Hilton Head Island without an appearance from Hudson's Andrew Carmines. On this particular morning, Daly and Carmines got eaten alive by one million no-see-ums.
Daly dances while he fiddles in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
“We’re looking for extras to be in the next Jevon Daly music video,” said Maggie Washo (publisher of this fine publication) in the video, filmed from the passenger seat of Daly’s car as the pair of them jumped between photo shoots.
“We need extra extras,” Daly quipped.
The call went out, and a crew of extra extras was happy to oblige. First stop on the marathon shooting schedule was a sunrise shoot at Coligny Beach. Decked out in an array of colors that would make The Polyphonic Spree look beige by comparison, they greeted the sunrise while Daly led them in some dance moves.
“Maggie and Jevon are great to work with. We have a blast even when the day starts at 4:30 a.m.,” said videographer Trevor Harden of Harden Creative. “Hilton Head Looks Good on You” is just the latest video that Harden
has shot with the C2 crew, going back to “Sharks Are Our Homies” five years ago. “It’s a nice change of pace, and I think it’s a cool idea to show off all the landmarks that make Hilton Head Island. I think a lot of people are going to relate to seeing their favorite spots and people.”
The first landmark in front of the cameras was Frosty Frog Café, where a quintet of local ladies represented one of the island’s greatest joys: drinking in the sunlight.
Two ladies in the group, Caitlin Lee and Heather Rath, are local institutions and co-hosts of the “Hilton Head Island is (Still) Fun” podcast.
“Is this going to be on the podcast? Of course. We’re here day drinking on the Monday after Heritage,” said Lee with a laugh.
“All Maggie had to say was, ‘Come to the Frosty Frog
The Palmetto Dunes Crew Daly and Washo pose for a photo with Brittany Melissakis, Abbey Caporuscio, Samm Wolfe and Karen Kozemchak after completing a shot with Wolfe at the Toptracer Range at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. .
Judy Bastian and Trudy Chaille shoot a scene with Daly on the pickleball court.
Daly and Harden review a shot by the Neptune statue at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
Amie Baima and Evan Berkner add their talents and beautiful breakfast props to the video at Skillets Cafe & Grill.
Daly sings as the sun comes up over the iconic Tiki Hut.
A Native Son Adventure
A line in the song talks about seeing dolphins, so the CH2 crew teamed up with Byron Sewell to get this shot with some well-known locals and their kiddos. Pictured from left to right: Baby D, Lacey, Brienne and David Thornton, Daly, Roby Breger, Cameron, Charlie and Hank Shroeder hang out on Sewell's tiki boat in Shelter Cove Marina.
The Moskowitz family poses for "family photos on the beach," a line in the song.
Kathy and Alan Perry pose for a quick shot with Roy and Becky Prescott at the Salty Dog Cafe.
Tai Scott, Chef Lynn Michelle and the Indugent Islander, Nick DeSimone, pose for a quick photo at Beautiful Island Square.
Daly runs through the song several times at the Tiki Hut while Harden gets the shot.
and Bikram
at 11 a.m. and wear a sundress,’ and I said OK,” Rath said.
Joining them in front of CH2’s cameras were Lola Campbell and Denice Brown, who were equally overjoyed to be a part of the shoot at Frosty Frog. “Rather than the 6:15 sunrise shot? Yeah,” Brown said. But the star of that scene is easily Egan McGlynn, whose unrivaled face acting beautifully conveyed the pain of grandma getting brain freeze.
“I was born to do this,” she said between takes.
Wee Hee Woo Hoo Hilton Head Looks Good on You
Next up on the first day’s shooting schedule was another landmark, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, where Daly, decked out in a bewilderingly purple suit, frolicked on the stage of “Waitress: The Musical.” While she had initially signed on just to let the C2 crew into the building, vice president of marketing Andrea Gannon found herself pulled into the shoot, playing a background extra.
“If you’re going to iconic places on Hilton Head, we feel like we’re the cultural hub of Hilton Head, so it’s only natural you should come through,” she said while waiting for filming to start.
It Takes a Village
Even before video production ever started, however, Daly sent the song to a few of his well-respected musical peers for some massaging.
"I often send my new songs to Mike Kavanaugh for some no-holds barred constructive criticism," said Daly. Mike Kavanaugh is a fellow band mate of Daly's in Jojo Squirrell and the Home Pickles and has learned to play over 800 songs in his over 40 years as a local entertainer.
"The first big thing Mike did, was make the song about me and you - the original version was really just my experience- my Hilton Head Island story. He really showed me that it could be everyone's - that it sort of is everyone's. Switching half of the chorus lines to "Hilton Head looks good on you too" made the song more inclusive," said Daly.
"Jevon and I both work alot in the Coligny area, so we've observed alot of vacation traditions over the years; we had those in mind while writing the song," said Mike Kavanaugh. "I think Jevon is the most prolific songwriter on Hilton Head - and I enjoy having a front seat when it comes to his seemingly endless creativity."
Caitlin Lee, Denise Stevenson, Heather Rath, Jevon Daly, Lola Campbell and Egan McGlynn film a scene about drinking frozen daiquiris at the Frosty Frog in Coligny Plaza. Shout-out to this crew for looking so pretty and festive the Monday morning after Heritage Sunday!
Fiddling in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
CH2 writer
Yoga Instructor, Cheryl Ricer, crosses off her bucket list item of being in a Jevon Daly music video.
Daly films a secene on the beach with fellow musician and friend Martin Lesch on piano. Longtime local and Tiki Hut bartender Mike Hays stands in as a saxophone player.
Daly then reached out to Kyle Wareham, a well-known musician in popular bands like Pretty Darn and Algorhythm to remix the track specifically for the video. Wareham has worked with Daly on multiple songs including, "Sharks are our Homies", "Mama Loggerhead" and Daly's children's album, What's Your Superpower?. Wareham's contribution to "Hilton Head Looks Good on You" resulted in an upbeat song you want to dance and whistle to, accented with fiddle, which wasn't in the initial recording.
"It was a fun and challenging project and when Maggie Washo asks you to do something, you do it," joked Wareham. "But in all seriousness - Jevon is an excellent songwriter - and I always love collaborating with him. When he called I was in an airport, headed to go on tour in Texas with Algorythym, but I started working on it immediately."
Weaving together home videos, footage from iconic festivals like the Lantern Parade and location shoots (including a jaw-dropping drone shot from the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse), the video pairs Daly’s song with a visual love letter to the island. With the skillful eye of Harden Creative and the unbridled creativity that have made Maggie and Jevon TikTok darlings, it manages to accomplish something that November Rain never could. It connects with us, speaking a language known only to lovers of this island. To the tune of another Jevon Daly banger, it shows how Hilton Head Island looks good on all of us.
“Isn’t everybody always trying to make that video about Hilton Head Island? Where’s our ‘Country Roads?’ We don’t have it,” Daly said.
We do now.
"Hilton Head Looks Good on Me" will premiere on CH2's Facebook and Instagram pages at 8 p.m. on June 11. We hope you enjoy and share with everyone who loves Hilton Head Island!
Daly poses for a shot with his brother, Gavan Daly, and his mother-in-law, Sheila, all wearing purple to match the energy!
Turkey Club Sandwich
Crab Stuffed Flounder
Seafood Newburg
Sirloin Steak
Article by Barry Kaufman
Enjoy Good Eats All Day Long at Skillets
Popularity can be a double-edged sword. For 32 years, Skillets has enjoyed well-deserved popularity based on its incredible menu of homestyle favorites. The eggs, pancakes, crepes, omelets, and famous skillets of their breakfast menu. The handhelds, salads, and seafood of their lunch menu. The genuine sense of family hospitality that Amie Baima and her staff have cultivated. It all combines to create a restaurant experience that islanders have made their own.
You might notice there is one very important meal we haven’t mentioned yet.
“Everyone thinks of us for breakfast and lunch,” Baima said. “But other than Sunday’s Prime Rib Night, which is incredibly popular, most people don’t even realize we serve dinner.”
If what she says is true, we as a community have been sleeping on one of the island’s hidden gems. The same mouth-watering flavors that have solidified the breakfast and lunch menus as island institutions are on dazzling display in the dinner menu, which has been infused with fresh new flavors and a daring new perspective by prodigal chef Kemar Linton. A native of Jamaica, he knew the menu inside and out before taking on the job – and he is wasting no time flexing his creative muscles.
Photography by M.Kat
House Made Apple Cobbler with a side of ice cream and fresh coffee
Jambalaya
“He has been around. He was with us before and now he’s back in the Skillets family,” Baima said. “It’s amazing how he does it now. It’s a new approach to everyone’s favorites.”
As an example, consider what Linton has done with the stuffed flounder, adding dramatic height to the presentation and incorporating asparagus and Brussels sprouts into the vegetable medley for a vibrant pop of color.
“That’s one of the reasons he has been such a great addition, and one of the reasons we work so well together,”
Baima said. “A lot of people eat with their eyes and I’m one of them.”
It’s not just visual flair. There’s a thoughtfulness in the way ingredients are combined, a layering of flavors that is both bold and balanced. Whether it’s the hint of citrus brightening a seafood dish or the gentle heat in a jerkinspired glaze, Linton is letting each plate tell a story.
It’s a subtle transition for a tried-and-true menu that has made the Skillets dinner experience one of the island’s
Philly Cheesesteak Crab Cakes with Rice and Asparagus
true sleepers. The magic that weaves its way through the main menu’s seafood and Southern fare promises a fantastic experience to younger diners as well.
“I think Hilton Head Island is becoming even more family-oriented than ever, so we have a very large kids’ menu,” Baima said.
It’s a rarity for a white-linen type of restaurant to even welcome kids, much less offer them what Skillets can. Discerning young diners can sample the 10-ounce ribeye, or dig in for a gourmet spin on the comfort classics, from hot dogs and hamburgers to shrimp. Parents know that kids can be impossible to please, so Skillets offers the classic emergency meal for picky eaters: Kraft Mac & Cheese. “It’s the stuff we all grew up with. Who doesn’t like a good box of Mac & Cheese?”
Grownups and kids aren’t the only diners who get the gourmet experience, though. With their full menu of Lucky Dog favorites like Perfect Pooch Pasta and Tailwagging Turkey, four-legged gourmands can enjoy the same impeccable dining as their pet parents. “Lucky Dog is a company that started here on Hilton Head, and it’s basically human food,” Baima said. “Some of those dogs are eating better than we are!”
However, those humans who have discovered the dinner experience at Skillets definitely have the edge. Whether it’s the weeknight menu or the famous Sunday Prime Rib Night, Skillets is definitely more than just lunch and breakfast.
“People might think it’s breakfast food for dinner, but it’s so much more than that. We have outstandingly fresh seafood, and I always use local shrimp,” Baima said. “I’ve had a guy coming in two or three times a week for the past 12 years. That’s just how we do it.”
The seafood is local, the lineup of craft beer and spirits from Burnt Church Distillery behind the bar are all local, and the vibe is decidedly local. But that’s what you would expect from a restaurant that has been family run since Day One. “I still have my dad in here doing my bookkeeping, and my son has been my IT department since he graduated three years ago,” Baima said. “Plus, he helps me out in the kitchen so I can be in the front of the house. It’s really cool having the entire family here.”
It’s just as cool as having your whole family here – kids, parents, and pets – for a dinner experience that proves Skillets is an island favorite no matter the meal.
Skillets is located in Coligny Plaza. Call ahead at (843) 785-3131 or visit skilletscafe.com to check out the full menu.
Braised Seafood with Rice and Collard Greens
> Alex Graham
> Anne Caywood
> Sandy Lomeli
> Caroline Richards
Article by Cheryl Ricer
25 Years of Justice
LOWCOUNTRY LEGAL VOLUNTEERS
For more than 25 years, Lowcountry Legal Volunteers (LLV) has been a beacon of hope for low-income individuals in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties by providing free legal services. With a dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, and volunteers, the nonprofit organization has helped thousands of individuals navigate the legal system, ensuring access to justice regardless of financial status.
“We are super excited to celebrate this milestone of being able to provide 25 years of justice to the Lowcountry,” said Anne Caywood, executive director. “We are very thankful to still be going strong all these many years later.”
Founded by Keri Olivetti and Maureen Coffey in 2000, LLV was inspired by the Hilton Head Island Volunteers in Medicine, an organization that engages retired doctors to provide free health care to low-income residents. Caywood said, “Our founders saw what the doctors were doing and thought, ‘Hey, we could do the same, utilizing retired attorneys, paralegals, and administrative folks to serve low-income individuals with legal needs.’”
Since its inception, LLV has provided 62,500 hours of pro bono legal services, valued at nearly $19 million. This has impacted more than 55,000 individuals, changing lives and strengthening the community. In the past year alone, LLV provided almost $3 million in free legal assistance.
Photography by M.Kat
> Hannah Kidd
> Ivette Foreit
LEGAL SERVICES THAT CHANGE LIVES
LLV focuses on three primary areas of legal assistance: family law, life and future planning, and housing protection. The goal is to remove barriers that prevent individuals from obtaining legal representation.
In the area of family law, the organization offers stability through legal assistance. When family structures are disrupted, LLV helps clients secure that stability through custody matters, child support and parental visitation, in divorce cases (especially those involving minor children), and offers clinics for uncontested divorces (without minor children).
Many individuals only think about future planning when faced with unexpected challenges. LLV helps those affected gain peace of mind by creating durable and health care powers of attorney, preparing simple wills and handling probate matters, and securing guardianship and conservatorship.
“We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support from the local community and our funders,” Caywood said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to serve the thousands of individuals who rely on us.”
Housing is a fundamental necessity, and LLV supports and helps protect tenants by defending against eviction, addressing landlord-tenant disputes, securing the return of security deposits, and improving unsafe or unhealthy living conditions.
In addition to these core services, LLV is actively developing new initiatives, including a medical-legal partnership with local free clinics such as Hilton Head Island Volunteers in Medicine, Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine, and the Good Neighbor Medical Clinic. This initiative aims to provide educational clinics at medical facilities, offer on-site legal services to low-income patients, and remove barriers such as transportation and trust issues that prevent individuals from seeking legal help.
“By embedding our services within health care settings, we make legal assistance more accessible to those in need,” Caywood said.
One of the most inspiring success stories from LLV
> The Lowcountry Legal Volunteers Team (from left to right) Ivette Foreit, bilingual paralegal; Sandy Lomeli, bilingual legal assistant; Hannah Kidd, medical legal partnership attorney; Anne Caywood, ESQ, managing attorney; Alex Graham, outreach coordinator, and Caroline Richards, paralegal.
involves a young mother seeking legal help to protect her preschool-aged daughter. Her husband, who had the financial means to hire a private attorney, wanted to take the child out of state. LLV stepped in, providing legal representation and securing child support, ensuring the mother could provide for her daughter.
But the support didn’t stop there. The organization’s community partnerships helped secure home repairs to improve the child’s living conditions and a scholarship for the child to attend a private preschool.
“At the end of it all, she turned to us and said, ‘I’m gonna get my GED next,’” Caywood said. “Seeing that evolution was incredibly touching. We get to work with people like this every day, empowering them to create a better future.”
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION
LLV operates with four full-time staff members and some 20 volunteers. Their passion for service drives them to help individuals overcome legal challenges and rebuild their lives.
“We truly love what we do because we get to witness the transformation of people who come to us in difficult situations,” Caywood said. “Seeing them shine and have new opportunities keeps us coming back every day.”
Unlike many nonprofit legal organizations, LLV does not receive federal funding. Instead, they rely on generous support from local and state organizations, including Community Foundation of the Lowcountry; Coastal Community Foundation; United Way of the Lowcountry; the South Carolina Bar Foundation; homeowners associations from Long Cove, Wexford, Berkeley Hall, and Belfair; local churches; and individual donors.
“We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support from the local community and our funders,” Caywood said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to serve the thousands of individuals who rely on us.”
In February, LLV marked its 25th anniversary with a celebration on Hilton Head Island. As part of this milestone year, they are hosting outreach events and fundraisers to engage the community.
One of their most popular events is the Wild Women’s Tea Party, now in its 15th year. Women from across the Lowcountry come together to raise funds and support each other, donning elegant hats and embracing the event’s theme; this year, it was Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.
“Women really understand the struggles other women face, and they want to support our work,” Caywood said. “Of course, men do too, and we are honored to have the support of all community members.”
As LLV embarks on its next 25 years, the organization remains committed to expanding access to justice for lowincome residents. However, their success depends on the continued generosity of donors and volunteers.
“The key word for all of us at Legal Volunteers is ‘grateful,’” Caywood said. “We are honored to serve this community, and we appreciate every donation and volunteer who helps us continue our mission.”
For those interested in supporting LLV, donation options and volunteer opportunities can be found at LowcountryLegalVolunteers.org and their social media pages.
By standing together, the Lowcountry community can ensure that justice remains accessible to all, regardless of financial means – a legacy worth celebrating for another 25 years and beyond.
LAWYERS Lowcountry L L
Carr Legal Group Johnson & Davis, PA
Prince Law Firm, PC Bannon Law Firm, LLC
Butler & College, LLC
CARR LEGAL GROUP
If there is one quote that sums up the legal philosophy of attorney Patrick Carr, it would be something he said during a discussion with this magazine on the topic of tort reform.
“People think the system is only available to the rich and powerful, but that’s never been what our civil justice system is about,” Carr said. “It’s about holding people accountable. It’s about encouraging good behavior and curbing bad behavior.”
Viewed through that lens, you can see why he fights so hard for his clients. It also underscores why tort reform is a subject that he’s so passionate about. As the principal of Carr Legal Group, he spearheads an experienced group of personal injury attorneys who have dedicated their careers to helping those who have been hurt in an accident or impacted by drunk driving.
And too often, he sees bad actors attempting to twist the system to make it harder for victims to be made whole.
“Tort reform is a hot button issue in our legislature. Sadly, the people who are promoting tort reform are doing it in a dishonest manner,” Carr said. “They tell you it will make insurance rates go down, but there’s no evidence to support that. When they make changes to our civil justice system to diminish or eliminate the remedies available to injury or
death victims, who benefits from that? The wrongdoer, by not being held accountable – and their insurance companies.”
One of the proposals at hand he sees as a grave injustice is the lowering of mandatory minimum liability from $1 million down to $300,000. “If a drunk driver runs a red light and kills someone, do you think $300,000 is adequate compensation for that loss? It’s not. Even a million isn’t enough,” Carr said. “They’re going in the wrong direction; if anything, it should be increasing due to inflation.”
It is a valid point, especially in South Carolina, where drunk driving injuries and deaths are among the worst in the nation. And when someone is injured or killed by their actions, it’s a grave injustice that Carr has built his career around redressing.
“It’s about making sure that people who are harmed through no fault of their own can get just compensation for what they’ve experienced,” he said. “If you’re a client of mine, you’re going to get personal attention and diligent service. You’re going to get my 28 years of experience and the finest legal representation within the highest ethical standards.”
And you’re going to get an ally who wants to see you made whole, one who knows how to fight a system that far too often tries to keep you from getting the justice you deserve.
Attorneys listed left to right:
Manning Cathcart, Hutson S. Davis, Jr., W. Lamar Johnson II, and Barry L. Johnson
JOHNSON & DAVIS, PA
WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF PRACTICE?
Barry Johnson: Business and land (transactional, government permitting, litigation)
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: Medical negligence – defense.
W. Lamar Johnson II: Complex civil litigation, real estate development and business transactions.
Manning Cathcart: I defend health care professionals in medical malpractice cases.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE CASE?
Barry Johnson: Booker vs. S.C. Highway Department (early 1970s), regarding South Carolina’s law of privilege, as related to our relatively new discovery practice in civil litigation.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: Representing a physician in a case with Muhammad Ali as a potential witness. I spent several hours with him.
Manning Cathcart: My first jury trial. I experienced all the highs and lows of civil litigation.
HOW DO YOU AVOID BRINGING THE JOB HOME?
Barry Johnson: Trust in God through my savior, Jesus Christ.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: I cannot always do that. My clients may need me at odd hours. I try to stay as involved with my family as possible.
W. Lamar Johnson II: By establishing appropriate boundaries with workload so that I can fulfill my primary obligations as a husband and father.
Manning Cathcart: I have hobbies outside of the law that take my mind off of work. I also spend time with friends and family who are not lawyers.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A LAWYER?
Barry Johnson: The history of the founding documents of America (Declaration of Independence and the Constitution).
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: I was on high school and college debate teams.
W. Lamar Johnson II: Seeing my Dad’s experiences and ability to help people during his career and the opportunity to work with him.
Manning Cathcart: I was inspired to become a lawyer by the challenge and responsibility that comes with the profession. I
am able to push myself while helping others at the same time. WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU DO FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
Barry Johnson: Serve them with integrity and wisdom.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: Be their counsel and companion through difficult and sometimes difficult to understand legal matters.
W. Lamar Johnson II: Helping clients determine what their legal objectives are (and sometimes should be) within the context of their specific situation, be it transactional or litigation, then developing a practical strategy for accomplishing them.
Manning Cathcart: I shoulder the burden of a lawsuit and give them peace of mind.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOUR CLIENTS WOULD NEVER GUESS ABOUT YOU?
Barry Johnson: My lifelong love of horses.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: That I have a life outside of the office and courtroom.
W. Lamar Johnson II: That listening to heavy metal music helps me focus during long sessions of document drafting. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL YOU USE?
Barry Johnson: My memory.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.:: Understanding, empathy, and communication.
Manning Cathcart: The South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
WHAT’S THE LAST GREAT BOOK YOU READ FOR PLEASURE?
Barry Johnson: “The Age of Jackson” (1945) by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr.
Hutson S. Davis, Jr.: “Bonhoeffer” by Eric Metaxas.
W. Lamar Johnson II: “Studies in the Napoleonic Wars” by Sir Charles Oman.
Manning Cathcart: “Suttree” by Cormac McCarthy.
THE VICTORIA BUILDING, SUITE 200 10 PINCKNEY COLONY ROAD • BLUFFTON, SC 29909 (843) 815 - 7121 . jd-pa.com
PRINCE LAW FIRM, PC
On her solo family law practice: “I don’t just represent ‘clients.’ I represent people.” My approach to the practice of family law is an integration of serious trial experience with compassionate understanding. Family law clients need strong, solid legal advice, but they also want to be heard. To ensure I can effectively tell each client’s “story” to the court, I dedicate myself to learning the specific details that make each person’s case different.
Emerging issues in family law practice: It is not enough to be knowledgeable about just the law. Modern family law practitioners must stay well-versed on increasingly common issues affecting their cases, such as mental illness, personality disorders, addiction, and abuse. How we present these issues in court may profoundly impact the outcome, particularly regarding child custody, which is why we often use expert witnesses to assist us.
We also often use experts to assist in presenting complex financial issues to the court. For example, many local individuals are self-employed, which poses a special set of financial issues, such as income verification and business valuations. Experience in handling complex issues and
utilizing financial experts can be a crucial factor in achieving a favorable financial result in your case.
On experience: My legal career has afforded me trial experience from both sides of the bench: I started as an Assistant Solicitor and Special Gun Prosecutor for the 14th Judicial Circuit. Following that, I was in private practice as a civil and family trial attorney. Eventually, I was appointed as a Magistrate Court Judge, where I was responsible for the jury trial docket. After I finally returned to private practice, I quickly narrowed my focus exclusively to family law because that was where I felt I was making the greatest difference in my clients’ lives.
On family and home: Hilton Head has grown tremendously since the days when I could ride my moped from my father’s house in Sea Pines to the (old two-lane) bridge without the burden of the traffic we all expect today. I remember well the car dealership that used to occupy the property where my office is currently located. I love the Lowcountry, and I love practicing law in our community. My husband and I are proud to be raising our daughter here along with our three dogs: Duke, Jax, and Ozzy.
BANNON LAW GROUP, LLC
10 Westbury Parkway, UNIT A . Bluffton, SC 29910 . (843) 815 - 4505
78 Asheley Point Dr., Suite 201 . Charleston, SC 29407 . (843) 815 - 4505
The Bannon Law Group is a unicorn of law offices--litigation experience, transactional experience and fabulously good looking. From real estate closings to criminal defense, the Bannon Law Group can assist with any legal trouble you may find yourself in. Quarterbacking criminal defense is Jim Bannon, a State College, PA native who has carried his love of the Nittany
BUTLER & COLLEGE, LLC
At Butler & College, LLC, we focus our practice on helping businesses, individuals, and families with their real estate and estate planning needs in a manner that is honest, affordable, and customer oriented. Our firm has eight convenient locations stretching from Calabash, N.C. to Bluffton, S.C. Owners Ryan Butler, Andrew College, Ashely Brown, and Frances Reindollar believe our team should be with you from contract to closing. Though many of our clients never see us except for the day they sign their closings documents, it is important to understand how much your real estate closing attorney is working for you behind the scenes. From researching your title and ensuring the closing
Lions to the Lowcountry for the past 17 years. Handling real estate with flair is Meredith Bannon, hailing from nearly everywhere due to being an Army child. Married to both each other and their passion to serving clients, Jim and Meredith have steered the Bannon Law Group from a one room office to now three locations in Bluffton, Charleston and Pooler, Ga. Though he plays his cards close to his chest, Jim will reveal that he was a professional actor in a previous life--skills that definitely translate to jury appeal and courtroom savoir faire. Meredith is an open book and will happily tell tales of her latest travels while putting her clients at ease through the most difficult real estate transactions.
bannonlawgroup.com
documents have been executed, Ashley, Natalia, and the Bluffton team make sure things go smoothly on closing day.
In addition to handling real estate transactions, attorney Natalia Chandler is an experienced litigator. She can assist with minor criminal matters and family law related issues. Tom McNutt is the estate planning attorney for the Bluffton location. He knows that no matter where are in your life’s journey, you have undoubtedly worked hard to build your personal and financial legacies. You worry about what would happen to your family if you were to become disabled or pass away. When you create an estate plan with tom, you can worry less. Butler & College offers free estate planning consultations so you will know your options and how much it will cost before you commit.
Ashley Brown Tom McNutt
Natalia Chandler
Sheridan's ensemble available at STMT Boutique
FullAheadSpeed
CRUISE INTO JUNE WITH THESE FABULOUS LOOKS
Photography by Maggie Washo
Videography by Jevon Daly
Styled by Kandace Cunningham
Looks modeled by Sheridan Day, Zake Masterson and Zach Ruhlin
Special thanks to Carolina Dreamers Car Club, Weekend Motoring Company and Zake Masterson for the use of their gorgeous classic cars for this shoot!
Zack's ensemble available at Palmettoes
Zake's ensemble available at Outside Hilton Head
Sheridan's ensemble available at The Haven
Sheridan's ensemble available at Maggie and Me
Zach's ensemble available at John Bayley
available
available
available
Sheridan's ensemble
at Kelly Caron Curated
Sheridan's ensemble
at Coastal Bliss. Zach's ensemble
at Outside Hilton Head
Sheridan's ensemble available at Collage
Sheridan's ensemble available at Jean-Pierre Klifa.
ensemble available at
Zake's
Palmettoes.
Zake's ensemble available at John Bayley
Sheridan's ensemble available at Birdie James
Zach's ensemble available at Southern Tide. Sunglasses available at Eyeland Optique.
Zake's ensemble available at Southern Tide
Sheridan's ensemble available at Evelyn and Arthur
Sheridan's ensemble available at Gigi's Boutique
Visitors to Lawton Stables head out on a trail ride with their new equine friends, Curly and Larry.
Article by Becca Edwards
Photography by M.Kat
Lawton Stables
With school winding down, most of us can feel the kids’ boredom pick up pace from a walk, to a trot and maybe even a canter. (Cue the title song of “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.”) But the wild, wild west of parenting can be tamed by saddling up summer at Lawton Stables.
“For 55 years, Lawton Stables has served in some capacity to achieve Charles Fraser’s vision of an equine property here in Sea Pines,” began Haley Zimmerman, the general manager of Lawton Stables. Zimmerman sips out of a Stanley cup with horse stickers representing what she calls Lawton Stables’ “OG horses.”
“And now, with a series of remodels and the newly resurfaced pasture and enhancements to the trail ride, we offer so much more for the whole family,” she said.
But lest we put the cart before the horse, here’s a little backstory about Lawton. In the early 1970s, when Hilton Head Island was still a relatively undiscovered paradise, the original Lawton Stables was built. The Sea Pines Resort, which was already known for its spectacular natural surroundings, sought to create
a destination that catered to both adventure-seekers and those looking to relax in tranquility. It was during this time that Lawton Stables was created to offer horseback riding as a way for visitors to experience the island’s stunning beauty in a way that felt intimate and immersive.
Named after the historic Lawton family, one of the earliest settlers in the area, the stables quickly became a beloved feature of Sea Pines. In its early days, the stables
were modest – just a few horses, a small barn, and a group of riders eager to explore the island’s nature trails. The focus was on creating a peaceful, quiet experience, allowing guests to enjoy the island’s rich wildlife, maritime forests, and salt marshes while on horseback.
Over the years, as Hilton Head Island’s popularity grew, so did the demand for horseback riding. What started as a small operation quickly expanded, with the addition of
Woody the Clydesdale, the current Lawton Stables mascot, was purchased and donated by the owner's of Woody's Sunglass Shop when Harley, the well-known and beloved Lawton Stables Clydesdale, passed away in March of 2021.
more horses, staff, and guided tours that offered unique perspectives on the local flora and fauna. Today, Lawton Stables is a premier destination for horse lovers of all kinds, drawing in thousands of visitors annually who want to giddyup to an array of equine and uniquely Hilton Head activities.
Trail Rides
“Our one-hour guided western-style trail rides are the most beautiful way to enjoy the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, which I truly believe is an underutilized portion of this island,” Zimmerman began. “The Forest Preserve is 600 acres of plants and animal species that are unique to our area. Every time you do a trail ride you see something special and different.”
No riding experience? No problem, Zimmerman said. “Lawton Stables is careful to match each rider with a gentle, well-trained horse,” she said. “Most of our horses are retired workhorses.” Take Pee Wee, for example. This 24-year-old standard-bred Percheron cross from the Amish country is a tender-hearted horse who visibly smiles when you give him words of affirmation, and he could walk the trail with blinders on.
Even locals, or those who have come to the island for years, will learn something new about the island’s wildlife and culture from the Lawton Stables guide. (Reservation required.)
Carriage Rides
The Lawton Stables one-hour horse-drawn carriage tour also gives guests a beautiful perspective of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Camouflaged by the crisscross pattern of overlapping Palmetto fronds and shaded by the coverage of Spanish moss-draped live oaks, the trail allows guests to
Benefits of Horseback Riding:
• Boosts physical fitness
• Enhances mental health
• Improves social skills
• Teaches responsibility
• Encourages outdoor activity
• Allows you to commune with nature
• Provides a unique perspective of Hilton Head Island
Yzma, the curious Alpaca poses for a quick shot.
enjoy bird sounds and gator sightings as your carriage driver leads a narrated tour. “The carriage rides are great for a special celebration, as well as just for people who want to see the Forest Preserve from the comfort of a carriage,” Zimmerman said. (Reservation required.)
Pony Rides
Making sure there is something for people of all ages, Lawton Stables’ friendly ponies are available for children 18 months (or able to sit up on their own) to 7 years old. The pony rides start at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m., with a one-hour
pony lunch break at noon. Kiddos can start to develop a sense of horseback riding with two laps around the animal farm led by a member of the Lawton Stables team. (First come, first served; reservations not required.)
Animal Farm
Zimmerman can fondly name just about every creature in the Lawton Stables animal farm. Kids can learn about goats, miniature donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, alpacas, miniature horses, and chickens. One cup of animal feed is included in the $5 entry fee.
Lawton Stables team members Logan and Katie pose for a quick shot with some of the trail-riding team.
Drew Hendrickson, a farrier from Aiken, makes new shoes onsite for a horse boarding at the barn.
Behind the Scenes Tour
Getting to see what goes on behind the scenes allows guests to get a better timeline of the past, present, and future of Lawton Stables. You will also learn equine lingo, hear about the various horse breeds, and really get a sense of all the hard work and effort the Lawton Stables staff puts in. (Reservation required.)
Any of these experiences can lead to a major takeaway visitors will have after visiting Lawton Stables. The staff truly take their jobs seriously and are dedicated to the well-being of all the animals in their care. “We love these animals, and we love that our visitors get to love on our animals,” Zimmerman said. All the animals receive expert veterinary care at all times, and every staff person not only knows the exact diet, medical needs, and supplementation of each animal, but also knows each one’s unique traits and personality. They can tell you the Clydesdale Woody’s favorite snack and that Jovie the pig is literally a ham. They can tell you which horses cuddle up and sleep together at night, and the moving stories of how each animal came to reside at Lawton Stables. At times, you feel like the staff is talking about a close friend or sibling rather than a horse or donkey.
Lawton Stables is also very conscious of the overall well-being of the horses, many of which are rescued or retired from very demanding working conditions. “The horses are constantly rotated to a beautiful 24-acre off-site facility to guarantee they are not overworked and have a place to run free,” Zimmerman said. “Every effort is made to ensure they have an enjoyable life, free from stress and anxiety. The farrier trims their feet on average every five weeks, and we constantly monitor their feed, health, and training to make sure you have a safe ride. We believe that working with and caring for animals enhances the wellbeing of everyone involved, and we offer our animal farm and horse farm as a place where the community can come to enjoy a simpler and natural way of life.”
Elena, a little visitor from Havertown, PA, rides one of Lawton Stables' more tranquil equines.
Don't forget to visit the petting zoo! The goats will have you chuckling at their antics.
Article by Barry Kaufman
MEET DR. DAVID ZWEIBACK
Hilton Head’s New Physician with a Passion for Music and Medicine
There’s a new doctor on Hilton Head Island—and he just might have the best bedside manner and setlist in town. Dr. David Zweiback brings with him not only a wealth of medical expertise but also a lifelong passion for music, offering a uniquely well-rounded approach to patient care.
“People should know that I’m really a blend of left and right brain,” said Dr. Zweiback. “I’m an evidence-based physician who delivers high-quality healthcare, but I’m also an artist. My medium just happens to be music.”
“I use cutting edge, proven medical practices and integrate them with philosophies that have value, including elements of regenerative and functional medicine,” he explained. “My goal is to help patients ensure their medications, diet, and lifestyle all work together to support a longer, healthier life. The quality of a patients years is even more important than the quantity of years.”
That comprehensive philosophy is what drew him to Monarch Concierge MD, a practice known for its integrative approach to healthcare. The concierge model allows for deeper relationships between doctors and patients—something Dr. Zweiback values deeply.
“With concierge care, patients are more engaged in their health,” he said. “When both patient and physician are committed and working in sync, the results speak for themselves.”
Originally from Pennsylvania, Dr. Zweiback brings a robust medical background to his new home. A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed his residency at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center and is board-certified in internal medicine. He’s a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians, and the American Osteopathic Association and has completed additional training in aesthetic medicine and extensive training in Dermatology.
Beyond his professional qualifications, Dr. Zweiback is excited to embrace the island lifestyle. A professional musician for more than 30 years, Dr. Zweiback is no stranger to the stage. Whether performing classic rock, country, easy listening, or blues, he knows how to connect with an audience. In
the exam room, that same ability to connect translates into compassionate care and thoughtful, individualized treatment. His practice seamlessly blends traditional internal medicine with cutting-edge advancements in dermatology and holistic health.
“I love Hilton Head—the vibrant music scene, the friendly people, and the community’s focus on health and wellness,” he said. “Plus, I love staying active, so having access to golf and tennis is a huge bonus.”
Whether you’re looking for a physician who offers personalized, high-quality care or hoping to catch a great local performance, Dr. Zweiback is ready to make Hilton Head home—both in the clinic and on stage.
“Patients love coming out to hear me play,” he said with a smile. “It’s a great way to connect outside the office and get to know each other on a personal level.”
Dr. Zweiback will begin seeing patients on June 3rd at 89 N. Main Street, Hilton Head, SC. The office can be reached at 843-681-5305.
> Dr. David Zweiback
A LINE IN THE SAND
Photography by M.Kat
COURTNEY’S THOUGHTS
Iam at 11,000 feet elevation. Locked into a pair of skis for the first time in 25 years. I am afraid of heights and speed. But neither can compare to the fear I have of falling and breaking a leg. (A thought that I shared aloud, to which my ski instructor replied, “At this speed the chance of injury is pretty non-existent.”)
It is a blue bird day – crisp blue skies and stunning 360-degree views of mountains for miles. But my vision is fuzzy because my goggles are full of tears. A half dozen three-year-olds tackling their first ski lesson are leaving me in their snow dust as they “pizza and French fry” downhill. I am silently willing myself to buck up and be
the badass I think I am. “You can do this, Courtney, you can do this,” I repeat.
The saint who invited me on this trip, our first trip as a couple, is no doubt second-guessing his choices. This is not the Courtney he knows. When we finally got back to the hotel, instead of hitting the hot tub or the bar for an après cocktail, I jumped online searching for a flight home. Admittedly, I was a little dramatic. But with just one flight a day to this remote destination, I was not going anywhere soon.
So instead of heading to the airport, we (er, I) limped to the gondola. It took just 12 minutes, the length of the ride from Mountain Village to the town, to shed my tears and fall in love. If you have ever watched the sunset streak the sky red behind the San Juan mountains, you know what I mean.
In the past two decades I have been fortunate to travel extensively, initially prompted by my career which took me all over the country and to every major city multiple times –New York, Philly, LA, DC, San Francisco, Chicago, and across
the pond to London. I got to “work” from many stunning destinations – Sonoma, Deer Valley, Sea Island, Blackberry Farm, Primland, Mayakoba. My career sparked the travel bug. I was lucky – until those finance bros in their stupid khakis and their stupid vests (I introduced you to them in my last column) ended that.
The opportunities I had created a desire to see so much more, and I have. The past decade has been jam-packed with epic travel adventures – surf camp in Costa Rica, wine tasting in Tuscany, hiking on the Isle of Skye, yoga in Grand Cayman, fly fishing in the Teton River. As you likely guessed, I have a list of all the amazing places I have been, and where I would still love to go.
But only one occupies my thoughts daily. Telluride, Colorado.
After that first trip in February 2016, we returned in 2017 and again in 2018, and every year since. Sometimes twice. I used to consider myself a fully committed beach girl, but something about the mountains just speaks to me. Fresh air. Wildlife. Hiking. Skiing. Snowshoeing. Crystal clean albeit freezing cold lakes. Dogs, so many dogs. I’ve slowly learned to love the ski terrain too – skiing after a big snow fall is sublime. Skiing during a snowstorm is otherworldly. The quiet and calm that covers the slopes is my therapy. Telluride is a small town, in a box canyon, with a quaint main street. There are no chain stores or restaurants. Everything is unique. Including every person, every sunrise and sunset.
After our first few trips to Telluride, we agreed that it would be a perfect place to settle in retirement. And then we looked at real estate and quickly ported back to reality. So, unless (until!) we win the lottery, we will continue to be able to afford Telluride just once (maybe twice) a year … but we will dream about it every night our heads are not in her clouds.
Full disclosure, with all the traveling we do, we are always grateful to return home to Bluffton. When we stroll Calhoun Street to catch sunset on the dock, after dinner at FARM, or sunrise with Alljoy Donuts in hand, I always remark, “If we were on vacation right now, we’d be so in love with this place …”
You can love two opposite and opposing ideas. And I do. I will keep playing our numbers and hope one day we can live in both my favorite places.
BARRY'S THOUGHTS
Let me tell you in no uncertain terms, readers, that the grass is not always greener. Sometimes the grass is just long enough to hide all the dog turds. The bitch is, you don’t know they’re there until you step in them.
When my wife and I moved down here (from Ohio, because, of course) 23 years ago, we weren’t really planning too far out. Truth be told, it’s still not our strong suit. We weren’t even married then, so the notion at the time was that we’d come down to the coast where I had work waiting for me, we’d spend a few years enjoying life by the beach, then we’d move on to the next adventure.
Then we got married. Then we had a kid. Then another. Before we knew it, 10 years had passed and we’d never quite moved on to that next adventure. And by that point, the next adventure was going to have to be worth it because we’d set down roots here and had made friends here. More family had joined us here, setting up Hilton Head as de facto home base.
That said, we both started to feel that itch. We wanted to raise our kids somewhere that had seasons. Somewhere they could go out sledding during the winter, have water balloon fights in the summer, and not have their sinuses flooded with pollen every spring. As luck would have it, the company I was working for at the time was hitting a bit of a rough patch (I’m talking “the owners have since fled the country” rough) and the time seemed right to pursue other career opportunities.
After a botched interview in my native Detroit for a magazine up there, I landed a job with a magazine on Long Island. It seemed like a good fit for the seasonal change we were looking to make, plus my mom’s family is all from LI. My grandparents still summered up there and my aunt and uncle hadn’t moved down here yet, so we had some family around. In 2013, we took the plunge.
We made it nine months.
The job I’d moved for was toxic to an insane degree, and three months in I became the third person I’d seen fired. Everyone else I worked with was gone within the year. The rental house we were living in was infested with squirrels, and lost heat during a blizzard when the squirrels chewed through the wires. Yes, there were more opportunities for the kids. But there were also neighbors who were entirely too comfortable dropping a hard-r N-word around us just because we were white. There were fun little beach towns. There were also very few opportunities for work outside of retail or organized crime.
So back we came. And in the years since, we’ve set down stronger roots than we ever did the first time. We’ve made lifelong friends, people who I know will be in my life regardless of where the next adventure lies for either of us. I’ve built a career here, offering writing services to all takers so that I’m never dependent on a company or toxic management to keep my family fed.
And, yeah, this past winter I got to take my youngest sledding, right in our front yard. This summer, we’ll probably have more than our share of water balloon fights. It was all right here, all along. And I’m not leaving.
ChiLD'S PLAY
GIVE YOUR INNER CHILD A CHANCE TO PARTY WITH THREE GREAT FAMILY ENTERTAINERS
ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN . PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
Shannon Tanner poses with a little fan at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina on a HarbourFest evening in June.
Photo courtesy of
The Sea Pines Resort
Photography by Rob Tipton
Hilton Head Island has always been, at its heart, a family destination. We don’t do casinos. We don’t have flashing neon lights enticing visitors to let out their sinful side while they’re away from home. What debauchery we do offer is usually of a classier nature than your typical Myrtle Beach bender getaway.
What we have is the beach. We have splash pads. We have biking trails that snake through carefully preserved wilderness. And, of course, we have mini golf. What we as an island do best is simply set a place at the table for families, providing them with the perfect environment for slowing down and reconnecting.
It’s little wonder, then, that some of our greatest musical institutions are all playing tunes in the key of family. That’s not to be confused with children’s entertainers. Barney is a children’s entertainer. These musicians are here for the family – songs that are upbeat, infectious, and silly enough to get the kids dancing, wrapped in a show that lets the parents share in their kids’ laughter.
“A four-year-old is a four-year-old. And a young mom and dad, they come here to the island to escape a lot of the things that society is throwing at them back home,” said Gregg Russell, who is starting his 48th year delighting families under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town. “They can relax and ride bikes, and they
These musicians are here for the family – songs that are upbeat, infectious, and silly enough to get the kids dancing, wrapped in a show that lets the parents share in their kids’ laughter.
feel safe letting their children ride bikes to the beach or Harbour Town to go to the toy store. What’s been created here over the decades is magical. Families connect to that and relate to that.”
If there was room for just one face on the Mount Rushmore of Hilton Head Island’s family entertainers, it would be Gregg Russell’s. His iconic shows set against the majestic backdrop of Harbour Town have gained a fame that stretches well beyond our shores. In fact,
Gregg Russell sings underneath the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town,where he's entertained millions of people for almost 5o years.
Jevon Daly holds court at the Coligny Main Stage.
the recent Apple TV+ documentary on him estimates that some 5 million people, stretched across four generations, have sat under the Liberty Oak to hear him play.
He is the headliner, but as his legend has grown, he has inspired others who have, in their own time, earned the right to join him in the pantheon of the island’s greats.
“I always held Gregg in the same regard as Jimmy Buffet. I really watched what he did. I literally went to his shows as a teenager and realized that I’d like to do this,” said Shannon Tanner, whose delightful shows in Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina draw enormous crowds along the waterfront, beanies in hand, ready to be signed. “In the back of my mind, I was following that template. I didn’t want to be a guitar player in bars. That was my rudder.”
Who: Gregg Russell
Where:Harbour Town
When: From June 2- August 7
Days: Monday - Thursdays
Time: 8PM - 9:30PM
Who: Shannon Tanner
Where:Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
When: From June 2- August 21
Days: Monday - Thursdays
Time: 6:30 and 8 - Two Shows Nightly
Who: Jevon Daly
Where:Coligny Plaza Main Stage
When: From June 2- August 31
Days: Sunday, Wednesdays & Fridays
Time: 6:30 and 7:45 - Two Shows Nightly
Tanner’s shows, hour-long sets that tend to go wherever the crowd takes it – with scheduled stops at favorites like “The Unicorn Song,” “Hair Party,” and “Purple People Eater” – are immersive sing-along experiences. Like Russell, he is experiencing the joys of seeing people he entertained as kids bring their own children to his shows as he enters his 36th year at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
“I have 48-year-olds holding a threeand a seven-year-old and I’m signing all of their hats,” Tanner said. “I’m signing a new message on every color. It’s funny to get the handful of people who come up and I’ve signed this same hat dozens of times over the years.”
Tanner’s beanie caps, the first of which he bought while on a trip with his now 36-year-old son to Walt Disney World as a toddler, have become his signature – as has his love and support for his fellow entertainers.
“When Jevon Daly came along, that was a profound change,” Tanner said. “Going from what he was doing to being a kids’ entertainer, and I was excited to see him evolve.”
If Daly has a home stage, it’s the central courtyard at Coligny where his summer kids’ shows fill the entire plaza with laughter. He also takes his shows elsewhere, from festivals big and small
Jevon Daly poses for a quick shot with a future musician.
Part of Shannon Tanner's show includes getting the kids onstage and having a sing-off - boys vs. girls!
to community events. The kids’ shows are obviously only part of his wildly creative streak, which sees him filming videos with C2’s own Maggie Washo to playing with a litany of bands from JoJo Squirrel and the Home Pickles to The Nicest Guys in the World.
“When I hit 40, I started saying to myself I need to start stepping outside of music and trying other aspects of entertainment,” Daly said. Having grown up playing music on the island, he’s gained a reputation as a musical chameleon, performing Grateful Dead songs with one band before slipping into spandex and a heavy metal wig to belt out some hair metal classics. “Those things were all scratching some kind of itch, but the kids’ show was born out of a book that I wrote called ‘He Needs a Chihuahua.’”
That book, based on his own childhood as an asthmatic, was by Daly’s own admission “a flop.” But it sparked a transition to family entertainment that took his whimsical solo songwriting to a more PG level. His kid-friendly tunes like “Sharks Are Our Homies” and “Pelican Bomb Squad” are full multi-media experiences, with music videos, stickers, T-shirts and hats that all help scratch Daly’s creative itch. Their interactivity makes for a wildly unpredictable but always enjoyable family show.
“Getting a kid on the microphone, rapping with them, asking them, ‘What’s your superpower?’ That’s the best part of the show,” he said. “By the time we do ‘Sand in my Pants,’ all the kids are doing their own version of the dance.”
He might be the new kid on the block, relatively speaking, but Daly has already come to appreciate the joy that music brings to families.
“When you get to that point where there’s 50 or 100 people, you feel like you’re riding the biggest wave Hilton Head Island has ever seen. I got 10 toes hanging off the nose and it’s a hurricane swell, you feel great,” he said. “To be doing that for three or four generations all at once, you really touch people.”
“Every night with kids onstage is magical,” Tanner said. “You want to talk about something that supersedes the norm? It doesn’t matter what mood you’re in. If I step onstage with a heavy heart, literally halfway through the first kids’ song my soul is smiling. That’s a powerful thing.”
“I’ve done 4,700-plus shows under that tree, and my philosophy has always been that someone is going to see me for the first time and someone is going to see me for the last time tonight. They both deserve the same kind of energy and enthusiasm,” Russell said. “It’s easy for me because it’s truly who I am.”
His is an authenticity that he has passed on, sharing it with Tanner and Daly as each have joined him in giving families a magical experience. Through these three artists, who share in a mutual respect and admiration for what each brings to the stage, our island has proven why it is, and always will be, the greatest place on earth for families.
The sun sets over a huge crowd enjoying Gregg Russell's show in Harbour Town.
Photo courtesy
Sea Pines Resort/ Rob Tipton
ARTICLE BY JESSE BLANCO PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
Steakhouses for Dad on Father’s weekendDay
I’ve been eating for a living for nearly a decade and a half. In that time, I’ve had the good fortune of trying (and very much enjoying) a great many things and cuisines that I didn’t venture into before it all became “work.” For example, with a straight face I can share that in that time I’ve gone from not liking sushi at all to becoming something of a sushi snob. There’s a lot of supermarket sushi out there that I choose not to give the time of day. There are many such examples, of course, but we are not here for that today.
I share all of that from the standpoint that one of the few cuisines on which I could go toe to toe with anyone before we started documenting my eats was the steakhouse. I’ve spent a lot of my adult life enjoying (or not) some of the best steakhouses in America: Keen’s in New York City, Gibson’s in Chicago. There was Nick and Sam’s in Dallas and, of course, Bern’s in Tampa. I could probably list 20, but I will only add that Brooklyn’s Peter Luger may have been something once upon a time, but I found it to be the most overrated restaurant in America. Yeah, I said it.
So, imagine the smile on my face when the text came in from CH2 headquarters: “How about best place for dad to get a steak for June issue?” I was giddy, I tell you.
When I started my gig a teenager ago, I remember when Hilton Head Island didn’t have a major player steakhouse of note. Now we have two. I like progress. Most of us do. There’s your backdrop. Where am I sending someone for steaks on Hilton Head Island? I will share my list as long as we understand that this is not a ranking. It never is. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads!
The Sage Room, Pope Avenue
A few years ago, I took an informal poll of locals asking what was regarded as the best steak on the island. A good majority of the respondents said The Sage Room. I’ve since had it a couple of times and would very much agree that it is fantastic. If you can sit at the Chef’s Counter in this restaurant, you are in for a treat. I love everything about it. Chophouse 119, Shelter Cove Towne Centre
One of the great ironies of life on this island is the fact that people move here from the big city for the weather or the lifestyle, but then live their lives here in relentless pursuit of those elusive big city eats. The vibe at Chophouse 119 is the closest you are going to get to a cosmopolitan feel on the island. It’s beautiful, but you will pay for it. No
matter, the selection of steaks might be the island’s best. Our experiences there have been everything you would hope them to be.
Links American Grill, Harbour Town
If you follow my work here on the regular, then you are not surprised to see Links listed here. I’ve made no secret of how much I enjoy the food at this restaurant. The atmosphere is polar opposite from Chophouse 119, but wonderful just the same. They have an excellent selection of beef (prime strips and ribeye are almost a must for me to choose from). You can count on A5 Wagyu to be on the menu practically year-round and the execution is always flawless.
Fabulous Frankie Bones, Main Street Village
A little more budget friendly offering you will find at Frankie Bones is their Coffee Marinated Ribeye. I wasn’t sure what to expect, I was skeptical because the menu is so large. How can everything be great? I took a chance and was rewarded. I enjoy Frankie Bones on occasion with a group of friends. I don’t always get this steak, but it is a good call whenever someone does. One other ribeye on the island that is world famous is at Santa Fe Cafe. It comes highly recommended, but I have never tried it. Wiseguys also does a nice job.
Stone and Webster Chophouse, JW Marriott, Savannah
I am hereby guilty as charged of breaking my own rules. This list was intended to be on the island. But if you’ve not made it to Stone and Webster in Savannah, it is worth a Sunday drive for a great experience. S&W has been making a steady progression toward excellence for a couple of years now. Every time I go, it’s better than the time before. If you love a good steakhouse, this should be on your shortlist – as should the River Room at Palmetto Bluff.
Did I miss one? Holla at cha boy: tips@eatitandlikeit. com.
Jesse Blanco is photographed at Chophouse 119
Dadpreneurs
1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite J6 Hilton Head Island, SC • 843 . 842 . 5282
420 East Broughton Street Savannah, GA • 912 . 298 . 5282
javaburrito.com
Michael Feketé
How do you balance a successful business and still make time for your family?
That’s a tough question. We work together, so some of our family time gets integrated in business, but having a routine and a predictable tight schedule helps everyone to enjoy themselves when there is time off.
What is your favorite daddy/child date?
The golf range and riding in the golf cart together is very popular. What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business?
Nothing worth having comes easy and hard work is a part of life. Work hard, play hard.
When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for?
When you become a parent, your whole life shifts. Priorities change and daily life is different right away. To be lucky enough to have a family has been the greatest gift in my life.
How many children would you have if finances/your spouse were no object?
Hahaha
Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy or what you are best at?
My kids really enjoy being outside, playing golf or tennis and swimming in the pool, or just hanging out in the backyard. Sometimes you might catch my daughter on the cash register at Java Burrito on Saturday mornings … supervised of course.
Robert Moul
How do you balance a business and still find time for your family?
The most difficult question to answer! And one that hits hard for any Dadpreneur. I have developed systems and built a wonderful team to help me get away. I build my schedule around family events, not the other way around. But everywhere is the message that you shouldn’t work as much and your kids are the only ones that will remember you worked too much – it’s like society wants to guilt working parents. Ignore it! You have to support them, but find the balance – which can shift depending on the business. What is your favorite daddy/child date?
My passion outside of work is my classic car, a 1970 Mustang
Mach I, and my older son and I go to car shows together. But he just waits impatiently for a trophy at this age, asking if he can just steal one.
What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business?
My boys are too young to really understand this concept, but I always preach about never giving up – a concept that is hard to grasp at a young age.
When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for?
As much as we could be, my wife and I were prepared but I wasn’t prepared for almost losing her at the birth of our second child and having her in a wheelchair for three months after the birth of our first. That’s another story. Biggest parenting mistake you’ll ’fess up to in the name of assisting others?
Screen time is dominating life these days, kids see it everywhere. I hate allowing it, but we are using a schedule that helps. Don’t get sucked into allowing it all the time. Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy, or what you are best at.
My oldest son says he said “Dada” first because I am the one that takes him to the bowling alley where he can win prizes at the arcade. I really hope there’s more to that.
Robert Moul, Henry (15 Months), Robbie (5) and Robert's wife Sandra Moul
Rob Vaughn
How do you balance a successful business and still make time for your family? Balancing business with family is a difficult task. But I’ve learned that you absolutely have to take time off for the important things, like sporting events and any other extracurricular activities so your children see that they are an important part of your life. Also, scheduling exciting vacations to look forward to helps. What is your favorite daddy/child date? Any time I get to spend with the kids is great, but it’s always a good time to just grab a nice dinner out and do some activity like miniature golf or go to Station 300.
What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business? The most important thing to teach them is to build great relationships with your customers and your employees. If people like being around you and you treat them
David Lopez
How do you balance a successful business and still make time for your family? I build a structure around my time. If I can systemize my business, I can protect time for what matters most – my wife and daughters. That means delegating, trusting my team, and setting hard boundaries when I’m home. I’m not perfect, but I’ve learned that being present, even for 30 undistracted minutes, can mean more than hours of distracted time.
What is your favorite daddy/child date? Anything outdoors –walking through a nature trail, riding bikes, or grabbing ice cream and talking about life. My favorite moments are when it's just me and them being silly or curious together. What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business? Consistency and character. I want them to understand that success isn’t just about working hard, it’s
with respect, they will come back. My youngest daughter, Nora, is learning that firsthand. She now helps out with register work at the pharmacy. She loves talking to the customers.
When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for? Noise, lots of noise. You get used to it, though.
How many children would you have if finances/your spouse were no object? I truly feel like we have the perfect amount of kids. Three suits us just fine, but I know one more wouldn’t hurt.
Biggest parenting mistake you’ll ’fess up to in the name of assisting others? Just try to pay attention to the little details. I’ve picked up the wrong child from school for another child’s doctor appointment – and showed up at the doctor’s office with the wrong child.
Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy, or what you are best at. Olivia’s favorite activity: Playing Mario kart; dad is best at making people laugh. Nora’s favorite activity: Going to work with dad; he is best at being a pharmacist. William’s favorite activity: Fishing or playing golf; dad is best at golfing and being nice. 167
about showing up with integrity, doing the right thing even when no one’s watching, and treating people well. That’s how you build something that lasts.
When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for? The emotional weight. I knew I’d love them, but I wasn’t prepared for how deeply I’d feel everything: the fear, the joy, the guilt, the pride. It cracked me open in a way that made me a better man, but it also made me more vulnerable than I ever expected. How many children would you have if finances/your spouse were no object? Probably four. I love the idea of a full home with kids laughing, running around, each one with their own personality.
Biggest parenting mistake you’ll ’fess up to in the name of assisting others? Trying to “fix” everything right away. Sometimes they don’t need solutions, they just need me to sit with them in their feelings. I used to jump into problem solver mode, and I’ve had to learn to slow down and listen. Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy, or what you are best at. They’d say dancing in the kitchen or making up silly stories at bedtime. They remind me that to them, the little things are the big things.
Rob Vaughn and his family
The Lopez Family, David, Andrea, Allison, and Noemi in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Charles Taylor
How do you balance a successful business and still make time for your family?
One of the great things about owning my business is that I get to set the hours and decide if/when we’re closed. I believe that our customers and community understand when they see the store closed to attend my daughters’ dance recital or school event and will still give us the opportunity to earn their business. What is your favorite daddy/child date?
We sponsor the Daddy/Daughter Dance with the Island Rec Center, so that is always one of my favorite nights of the year.
Matthew Tenwolde, DVM
How do you balance a business and still find time for your family? I work hard every chance I get, especially when the kids are away. That way, when they’re with me, I can be fully present – completely in the moment and in full dad mode.
What is your favorite daddy/child date? Saturday morning golf cart rides to Alljoy Donuts. They make the best donuts in town, and the kids absolutely love the tradition. It’s simple, but it’s our special time. What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business? To focus on community, not money. We have a small (but mighty) flock of chickens, and the kids market the eggs to our neighborhood and sell them for a quarter each. Sometimes we come up short and miss a delivery, so we make the next one free. It’s a great way to teach them about consistency, responsibility, and the value of treating customers right.
What is the most important thing you teach your children with respect to sustaining a business?
Take care of your customers and do what you say you’re going to do and the rest takes care of itself. When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for?
The absolute shear amount of stuff that comes along with kids: devices, toys, clothes, etc. How many children would you have if finances/your spouse were no object?
I think I’m good with our two, mostly based on not wanting to start over in the baby stage and everything that goes along with that.
Biggest parenting mistake you’ll ’fess up to in the name of assisting others?
You don’t need to keep every piece of art or project they bring home from daycare or school.
Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy, or what you are best at.
"Gamecock football games with Daddy!" - Stella and Rose
1500 Fording Island Rd., Suite B • Bluffton mayrivermattress.com • 843 . 836 . 2337
When you first became a father, what was one thing you were totally unprepared for? As cliché as it sounds, the sheer weight of truly loving another human being more than anything else. The feeling is indescribable until you’ve looked your child in the eyes for the first time or heard that first newborn cry – it’s absolutely supernatural.
How many children would you have if finances or your spouse were no object? Two – exactly what we have. We’ve been blessed with a handsome, smart, sweet boy, and a beautiful, kind, sassy little girl. Our home is often filled with other children too, and dividing our time further just wouldn’t feel fair. We’re deeply grateful for the beautiful family we have.
Biggest parenting mistake you’ll ’fess up to in the name of assisting others? Introducing the iPad.
Ask your children what their favorite activity is with Daddy, or what you are best at. My daughter said her favorite thing is riding roller coasters over and over again – this was the first year she was tall enough to ride, and she loved every second. My son said playing Jurassic Park together. During a time when I was working a lot, he’d even come spend the night at the hospital so we could have time together. When I got a break, we’d play Jurassic Park – just the two of us.
Charlie and Carolyn Taylor with their daughters Stella and Rose.
Meet the Tenwoldes (from left to right): Charlie Pearl, Matt Tenwolde, Lima Bean, Wyatt Stone, Bobbi Jean and Grayson Sterling (grandson).
A Classic Revival
MARK ONEILL REAWAKENS A CLASSIC WITH TO CATCH A SPY
Mark ONeill’s journey to becoming an author has been anything but conventional. From his early days as an accountant with Price Waterhouse to designing toys and running a chain of Italian ice stores, ONeill’s career path is a testament to his adaptability. After more than 20 years in government relations and marketing at Pfizer, he retired at 59, ready to explore a long-held ambition – writing fiction.
While many authors start with short stories or unpublished manuscripts, ONeill’s debut novel, To Catch a Spy, is a direct sequel of To Catch a Thief, the 1952 novel
by David Dodge that inspired the classic Alfred Hitchcock film starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly.
The opportunity to continue such a renowned story is not something that fell into his lap. ONeill pursued it with determination.
As a teenager, ONeill discovered To Catch a Thief in his grandparents’ basement. Among religious texts, The Shoes of the Fisherman, and a copy of The Godfather, and a few more, this book stood out.
“I read it and fell in love with the story,” ONeill said. “The character of John Robie fascinated me. He was an
Mark ONeill at home with his new book, To Catch a Spy.
acrobat-turned-jewel thief, independently wealthy, and able to move seamlessly between high society and the criminal underworld. He could do anything, climb anything, break into anything. He even fought in the French Resistance. He was the ultimate cool character.”
Decades later, when ONeill decided to write a novel, he thought back to that book. Having studied the craft of fiction through online resources and writing guides, he understood the importance of structure – plot, character arcs, setting, and conflict. But he also knew that building on an existing property could make it easier to sell, a lesson from his toy-inventing days.
Goodreads review:
“The story is well written, and the plot has many twists that will keep any reader glued to the outcome. The characters are particularly well developed.”
- Stanley mcshane
Securing the rights
ONeill reached out to the publisher of To Catch a Thief, inquiring about sequels. The response was that none existed. He was then connected with Randall Brandt, University of California Berkeley librarian, curator of the California Detective Fiction Collection, and publishing consultant to the David Dodge estate.
Brandt confirmed that no one had continued the story and introduced ONeill to Dodge’s granddaughter and the Curtis Brown literary agency, one of the biggest in the nation.
“I pitched them my idea,” ONeill said. “I wanted to take John Robie’s skills and repurpose them for a greater good. He had always said, ‘I’m no Robin Hood – I stole for myself.’ But what if he was drawn into the world of espionage? The Cold War was in full swing in the 1950s. The skills that made him a great thief could make him an even better spy.”
The estate and the agency were intrigued. They asked ONeill to write the first 30 pages.
“I knew I had to hook them immediately,” he said. “I had learned that the opening scene is crucial – it has to capture the essence of the character and the tone of the book.” So, he put John Robie where he belonged – scaling the side of a hotel in the French Riviera, up to his old tricks, but with a new purpose.
The estate loved it. ONeill got the green light to write the full novel.
A classic reimagined
In To Catch a Spy, set a year after the events of To Catch a Thief, Robie finds himself caught in an espionage plot. The French Riviera is hosting its first Fashion Week, bringing Francie Stevens, his love interest from the original book, back into his life. But Francie has a few surprises of her own and, as their paths cross with international intrigue, Robie begins to wonder: Is Francie a spy?
Blending elements of suspense, romance, and adventure, ONeill crafted a narrative that stays true to Dodge’s original style. “I studied Dodge’s work closely,” he said. “He had a lean, crisp writing style, similar to other California noir authors like Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett. His dialogue was sharp and realistic. I wanted to capture that same rhythm and feel.”
Despite his business background, ONeill took a meticulous, methodical approach to writing.
“I spent months outlining,” he said. “I studied the elements of great fiction – rising action, conflict, pacing. There’s so much craft behind a good story.”
One of the most important lessons he learned was the significance of where a story begins. “Do you start when the characters are planning the trip, boarding the train, or already at their destination?” he said. “I decided to open with John Robie in action – scaling a building. That’s who he is.”
Since its release, To Catch a Spy has received strong reviews. One Goodreads reviewer, Stanley McShane, wrote: “The story is well written, and the plot has many twists that will keep any reader glued to the outcome. The characters are particularly well developed.”
Another reviewer, The Twilight Bookworm, praised ONeill’s ability to honor the original: “Mark ONeill did a phenomenal job bringing John Robie back to life on another exciting heist. I appreciate that it read as though David Dodge wrote it himself.”
For ONeill, this feedback is deeply rewarding. “When people tell me it feels like a natural continuation of Dodge’s work, that’s the highest compliment I could get,” he said.
With the success of To Catch a Spy, ONeill is considering continuing John Robie’s adventures. “I have ideas for another book,” he said. “Robie’s skills open up so many possibilities.”
For now, ONeill is enjoying the journey – one that took him from corporate boardrooms to the world of international intrigue. “Writing this book has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life,” he said. “I hope readers have as much fun reading it as I did writing it.”
For those who loved To Catch a Thief, ONeill’s novel offers a fresh but faithful return to the world of John Robie. If the reviews are any indication, this new chapter is a thrilling success.
A few pickleball enthusiasts rally for the
A large crowd turned out for The Hilton
on May 2.
Head Island -Bluffton Chamber of Commerce's ribbon-cutting event
point.
Director of Operations and Sales, Pete Bernstein
Samuel Tourlitis, Director of Pickleball for Dill Dinkers
Two visitors from Florida play pickleball at Dill Dinkers in May.
Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by M.Kat
A PRETTY BIG DILL
DILL DINKERS OPENS ITS DOORS ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND
It’s really no surprise why pickleball is one of – if not the – fastest-growing sport in the country. Anyone who has played it can testify that what it does really well is distill all the most enjoyable parts of tennis down to a fun, fast-paced game that’s as easily mastered by a young first-timer and an old pro on the court. What it jettisons in favor of ramping up the fun is the things no one liked about tennis in the first place – the exhaustion and the devastating impact on your knees.
Until lately, though, there was one element of tennis that pickleball couldn’t shake – the heat. Playing outdoors in the blazing summer sun of the Lowcountry is at best a trial by fire for your antiperspirant and at worst a health hazard.
So, you can imagine what the scene was like when the most popular sport in town met the cooling comforts of air conditioning this past March, when Dill Dinkers opened its doors.
“We had five days of free play just to let people see what we were about and we had roughly 2,000 people come through,” said Samuel Tourlitis, director of pickleball for Dill Dinkers. “I wasn’t surprised by the crowd, but I was surprised by how far a trip people made. We had players from Charleston to Savannah because there just isn’t anywhere else for indoor pickleball around here.”
The Dill Dinkers franchise, which started in Maryland, now stretches across eight states. With locations as far flung as Connecticut and Texas, they’ve clearly caught the wave of the sport’s surging popularity, even in states where summer play isn’t as prohibitively steamy.
“Right now, it’s been relatively nice out and we haven’t had a lot of rain, but when the humidity starts, we’re ready for the rush,” Tourlitis said.
And those folks won’t just be escaping from the heat. They’ll be escaping to a state-of-the-art indoor facility with
pro cushioned courts that are easier on your knees and privately fenced courts that keep errant balls from rolling into play. They’ll also be stepping into one of the most vibrant social scenes on the island.
“We’re really creating a fun environment where people can come and hang out,” Tourlitis said, adding that guests often bring in their own “performance enhancing” beverages to ramp up the fun. “There’s a huge social aspect to it and we’re going to be adding some programming this summer to make it even better.”
He’s seen firsthand how tight-knit the community is around the sport. Moving to the area from outside of Philadelphia, this perennial athlete arrived knowing only his aunt and uncle who lived here. “As soon as I got into pickleball, I met my girlfriend and her friends and they introduced me to this whole community. … There aren’t many sports where a 70-year-old can compete against an 18-year-old, and that creates this environment where everyone just plays together.”
His newfound love for the game led him to Dill Dinkers, where he has been able to see the newest location through its opening and begin steering it forward.
“We really have a mix of everything – open plays, clinics, round robins, classes, coaches who can do private lessons. … We’re going to start doing camps, leagues, and bigger tournaments as well,” he said. “We’re a membership-based facility where it really benefits you to be a member because you get 50% off court fees, discounts on tournaments and league fees, and 10% off our pro shop. There are still open plays for nonmembers, but membership gets you so much more.”
And, if nothing else, it gives you a chance to sharpen your game all summer long, rain or shine. Dill Dinkers is located at 93 Mathews Drive, Unit 150 on Hilton Head. Visit dilldinkers.com or call 843-507-3465 to learn more.
Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by M.Kat
YOUR SWING’S SECRET WEAPON
Sharpen your game in six holes at First Tee
It’s getting to be that season. It’s the time of year when every weekend means a fresh outing with your favorite foursome across the countless courses that dot Beaufort County. It’s your chance to unwind with friends, take in the beauty of the Lowcountry in summer, and test your golf skills in friendly rivalry.
For most of us, it’s that last part that gets tricky. Because no matter how much you work on your game, there’s always that one member of your golf group with the preternaturally smooth swing, with the power to get those few extra yards down the fairway, and the finesse to land that difficult approach shot. If you want to hang with them, or at least ensure there’s someone in the foursome who’s more of a hacker than you are, you’re going to want to get some practice before you meet up.
But public courses can be a tall order, particularly in the summer. Fortunately, there’s a spot that locals know where you can quietly work on your game far from the prying eyes of your golf buddies. It’s a place as crisply manicured as any private course, with a layout as challenging as it is enjoyable.
It’s The First Tee – The Lowcountry, with its six-hole, parthree course that’s becoming the training ground for the island’s elite golfers. With a diverse and engaging layout, its design puts the emphasis on strategic play, letting you hone that short game to precision.
“We have really tried to create a course here that rivals the conditions you’ll find anywhere else on Hilton Head Island,” said course superintendent Grant Backus. “We’re training the next generation of young golfers here, so the idea was to prepare them to approach the game critically so they’ll make better shot choices. The result is a course that provides a unique challenge to players of any skill level.”
Apart from the six-hole course, the Gumtree Road facility gives you everything you need to improve your game, with a beautifully maintained driving range as well as a putting green and chipping area. And each is maintained to the highest standard, as one would expect on an island like Hilton Head where golf is king.
This inclusivity to open these incredible facilities dovetails with First Tee’s overall commitment to the community. Just as they give more seasoned golfers a chance to hone their skills, their programming and volunteer coaches give area youth the skills they need to grow – on and off the course.
That means instructing them in the game of golf while building on life skills across First Tee’s nine core values: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment.
It is an exceptional asset to our community, and one that you can put to good use this summer. If your game needs an upgrade before your next outing, stop by their Gumtree Road facility, call (843) 686-2680, or visit firstteelowcountry.org.
Two golfers practice their tee shots on a beautiful May day at First Tee - The Lowcountry.
Signage welcomes golfers at First TeeThe Lowcountry
ARTICLE BY CHERYL RICER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB TIPTON
Hilton Head Island Gets Its Own Monopoly Game
A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL CULTURE AND LEGACY
Hilton Head Island now has its very own version of the iconic Monopoly board game, offering residents and visitors a unique way to engage with the island’s rich history, renowned landmarks, and cherished local businesses. Monopoly: Hilton Head Island Edition was officially unveiled March 19 at the Robert Trent Jones golf course in Palmetto Dunes Resort.
The event, hosted by Top Trumps USA, the company responsible for developing city-specific Monopoly editions under license from Hasbro, marked the exciting launch of a game that truly encapsulates the spirit of Hilton Head Island.
The game features a customized board where the traditional Boardwalk and Park Place are
Captions listed top to bottom, left to right: The Palmetto Dunes crew gets a photo with Mr. Monopoly; The new Hilton Head Island Monopoly game is available at many locations on the island, including the Palmetto Dunes General Store; The event was held at the Robert Trent Jones Clubhouse; A young fan gets his photo with the USCB mascot; Ryan Broce chats with Sea Turtle Patrol attendees Martin Dack and Amber Kuehn at the event; Mayor Alan Perry welcomes everyone; Mr. Monopoly poses with TopTracer in the background; CH2's Maggie Washo and Jevon Daly celebrate with Mr. Monopoly.
replaced with Hilton Head Island's most iconic locations, businesses, and events. “We appreciate all those who suggested landmarks, organizations, and businesses that make Hilton Head Island unique and truly special,” said Tim Barney, game manager at Top Trumps USA. “And we are pleased so many of them raced in to win the opportunity for a place on the board.”
The creation of the Monopoly: Hilton Head Island Edition was a community-driven effort, incorporating input from residents, businesses, and visitors.
“We selected approximately 30 or so organizations from across the entire island with the help of locals and, really, anybody that loves Hilton Head Island,” Barney said. “From their nominations and our own research, we selected a number of things from all different sectors, including restaurants, museums, cultural sites, sports teams, and nonprofits.”
Among the featured spaces are:
• Beaches and Resorts: Coligny Beach, Palmetto Dunes, Shelter Cove Harbor & Marina
• Businesses and Restaurants: Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Food Truck Park at Marshland Road, Beautiful Island Square
The game is now available for purchase locally and online. Some of the local retailers carrying the game are: Palmetto Dunes General Store, The Robert Trent Jones Pro Shop, Shelter Cove Marina, Coastal Discovery Museum, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Hilton Head Preparatory School, Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa, Three Sisters Resale and More.
• Events and Festivals: The RBC Heritage Classic, Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Hilton Head Seafood Festival, and the Gullah Celebration
• Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Volunteers in Medicine, Sea Turtle Patrol, Coastal Discovery Museum
• Education and Sports: Hilton Head Preparatory School, the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB), Hilton Head Island Rugby Football Club
This diverse representation ensures that both residents
Hilton Head Island Gets Its Own Monopoly Game
and visitors can see places that are meaningful to them. “I think the greatest compliment we can get is when a local picks it up and says, ‘That feels like home,’” Barney said.
A Visual Celebration of Hilton Head
One of the standout features of this special edition is its stunning visual design. The game board is adorned with custom imagery showcasing Hilton Head’s scenic beauty and historical significance. “People are really going to enjoy the beautiful imagery throughout the game,” Barney said. “As you move around the board, you kind of want to lean forward, zoom in, and check out all the cool pictures that have been selected.”
The Community Chest and Chance cards have also been customized to reflect the unique culture and experiences of Hilton Head. Players may encounter challenges and rewards that reference local traditions, landmarks, or even colloquialisms that only true Hilton Head enthusiasts will appreciate.
While the Hilton Head edition of Monopoly brings a fresh, customized look to the game, it retains the classic gameplay elements that fans know and love. Players will still pass Go, collect $200, and risk landing in jail as they navigate the board. The traditional game tokens (including the racecar, thimble, and top hat) remain unchanged, but everything else – from the properties to the cards – has been adapted to reflect Hilton Head’s identity.
“This is fun for the whole family,” Barney said. “We see kids playing this all the way up to grandparents and greatgrandparents.”
The game is now available for purchase locally and online. Some of the local retailers carrying the game are: Palmetto Dunes General Store, Robert Trent Jones Pro Shop, Shelter Cove Marina, Coastal Discovery Museum, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Heritage Classic Foundation, Hilton Head Preparatory School, Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa, Three Sisters Resale and More.
In addition to supporting local businesses, the game can also be found online through Amazon, CVS, and Top Trumps USA’s official website. Barney encouraged those interested to purchase the game sooner rather than later, as initial demand has been high. The Palmetto Dunes General Store has already placed a second order as the initial shipment sold out in six weeks.
For many, Monopoly is more than just a board game – it’s a way to connect with family and friends, relive memories, and celebrate a community’s identity. By bringing Hilton Head Island to life on the Monopoly board, this edition serves as a timeless tribute to one of the most beloved destinations in the U.S.
“This is meant to be the quintessential Hilton Head Island edition for the foreseeable future,” Barney said. “It’s a game that locals can cherish, and visitors can take home as a souvenir of their time on the island.”
Summer Salads on a Yacht
Bathing suit season is upon us, and you know what that means – time to swap out those cheeseburgers for more healthy options this summer. Chef Lynn Michelle and Cassandra Shultz prepared some of their seasonal favorites using fresh garden herbs and vegetables for an afternoon on the water.
Photography by Maggie Washo
Recipes prepared by Chef Lynn Michelle and Cassandra Shultz of Cassandra’s Kitchen Special thanks to Cindy and Jason Bullock for hosting our shoot in Wexford
LOWCOUNTRY SHRIMP SALAD
1½ pounds local shrimp, cooked and peeled (whole or cut into small pieces)
½ cup celery, small chopped
¾ cup sweet onion, medium chopped
½ cup peppers – red, yellow, orange, finely chopped
¾ cup Hellman’s mayonnaise
2½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¾ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
2-3 drops tabasco
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1½ teaspoons dill weed
Salt to season
Black pepper to season
In a large bowl, using a rubber scraper, blend all ingredients together, mixing gently.
Place in the refrigerator for an hour to blend flavors.
Season to taste.
By Chef Lynn Michelle
Jason Bullock and his Bernedoodle Gracie.
Chef Lynn Michelle
SPINACH & BACON SALAD
By Chef Lynn Michelle
By Chef Lynn Michelle
1 bag fresh spinach, rinsed, stems removed
2 cups strawberries, sliced into bite-size pieces
¼ cup sweet onion, finely sliced
1 tablespoon red onion, finely sliced
1 pound bacon, cooked crisp, cooled and roughly chopped
Feta cheese, crumbled
Reserve half the bacon for top of salad.
SWEET & SOUR SALAD DRESSING
3/4 cup ketchup
1 cup olive oil
½ cup water
1 small sweet onion, peeled and cut in 4 pieces
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
¾ cup sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Blend above items in a high-speed blender for 1 minute. Season to taste.
Place all salad ingredients into a large bowl. Mix in dressing a little at a time, to desired amount.
Place on plates and top with reserved chopped bacon and crumbled feta cheese.
MOZZARELLA, CUCUMBER, RED ONION, AND TOMATO SALAD WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE
½ pound red cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, sliced in half
2 avocados, diced
1 cucumber, sliced
1/3 cup of red onion, diced
8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls
Combine all ingredients and top with balsamic glaze. For a lighter option, a squeeze of fresh lemon and olive oil.
BALSAMIC GLAZE DRESSING
3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
¼ cup olive oil
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 pinch black pepper
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Add all ingredients to a small bowl. Mix well and drizzle on top of salad.
ISRAELI VEGETABLE SALAD
Recipe courtesy of Ina Garten
1 (1 pound, 13-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup tahini (ground sesame paste)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tablespoons chopped garlic (9 cloves)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sriracha
Good olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 large hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, halved, seeded, and 1/2-inch diced
2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
1 large Holland red bell pepper, diced, 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup red onion, diced 1/4-inch pieces
1/2 cup julienned fresh mint leaves for garnish
Toasted pita bread, for serving
For the hummus, place the chickpeas, tahini, 3/4 cup of the lemon juice, garlic, cumin, sriracha, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process until the mixture is completely smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add a few tablespoons of
warm water until it is creamy but still thick and spreadable.
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion. Add 1/3 cup olive oil, the remaining 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper and combine. Spoon the hummus onto a large (12-by-16-inch) serving platter, spreading it out with a raised edge. With a slotted spoon, mound the vegetable salad on the hummus, leaving the edges of the hummus visible. Sprinkle the vegetables and hummus with the mint and extra salt. Drizzle with olive oil and serve at room temperature with pita bread.
Cassandra Shultz, owner of Cassandra's Kitchen in Bluffton.
9 Bayberry is a harmonious blend of centuries-old, reclaimed materials and modern luxury amenities.
Article by Cheryl Ricer
Photography by Matthew Garbade, Edge of Reality Production
Built by Tom Banach, Interiors by Greta Fox, Listed by Liam Cronin, Real Estate Advisor, Team Leader of The Lowcountry Group at Engel & Völkers
9 BAYBERRY LANE
A fusion of historic reclamation and modern coastal luxury
Nestled on the pristine sands of South Forest Beach on Hilton Head Island, 9 Bayberry Lane is a property that bridges the gap between history and contemporary design. This architectural gem stands as a testament to sustainable construction and refined coastal living – a harmonious blend of centuries-old, reclaimed materials and modern luxury amenities. Proudly owned by technology visionary Greg White from Atlanta, the home’s story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the past.
Constructed in 2019 by Tom Banach, the home was conceived as an experimental project that sought to marry historical significance with cutting-edge design. In a market where new construction is often synonymous with uniformity, the property distinguishes itself by incorporating more than 75% reclaimed materials into its very fabric.
“It’s the story behind every reclaimed piece that truly sets this home apart,” Cronin said.
Banach sourced slow-growth woods from the old Savannah River wall and incorporated reclaimed stone tiles imported from India. He even deconstructed barns from the 1800s in Pennsylvania and Ohio, selecting the finest slates from aged roofs to adorn the siding and interior walls of the home.
“These materials aren’t just decorative; they’re tangible links to a time when craftsmanship was revered,” Cronin said.
The authenticity of the reclaimed wood – complete with visible axe marks and the subtle patina of age – imbues every room with history and character, ensuring that 9 Bayberry Lane is truly one of a kind.
Interiors that echo a storied past
Inside, the home sprawls over 3,600 heated square feet, with a total of 4,000 square feet of living space designed to captivate and inspire. The layout is both expansive and
intimate, inviting residents and guests to experience the seamless blend of Old World charm and modern sophistication. Every corner of the interior is a carefully curated narrative of reclaimed artistry.
Unique design elements abound throughout. The interior boasts five well-appointed bedrooms (each with an en suite bath), including two luxurious primary suites, making for uncompromised comfort and privacy. In one of the guest bedrooms, flooring reclaimed from the Savannah River wall is showcased as a striking wall feature, its original metal fastenings still visible as a vivid reminder of its storied past.
Along the stairwell, hand-hewn slate tiles, once part of a barn roof in Amish country, add a rustic yet refined touch. A massive piece of koa wood from South America, prominently displayed as guests ascend the stairs, hints
at the global journey of materials that define this unique residence.
Modern amenities are seamlessly woven into the historic fabric of the home. State-of-the-art appliances, LED lighting throughout, and an advanced media room on the third floor (outfitted with blackout curtains), and electric blinds throughout the home, ensure that while the bones of the home echo the past, its pulse beats with modern sophistication.
Coastal living meets architectural ingenuity
The home’s allure extends beyond its walls, embracing outdoor living with the same dedication to sustainability and luxury. The exterior, too, celebrates reclaimed materials, featuring barn pieces and fossil stone tiles that continue the narrative begun indoors.
At the heart of the outdoor living area is a fully equipped
Constructed in 2019 by Tom Banach, the home was conceived as an experimental project that sought to marry historical significance with cutting-edge design.
Adding further to the outdoor experience is an inviting shower and a unique sitting area designed to provide a quiet retreat from the sun.
Modern amenities are seamlessly woven into the historic fabric of the home.
Light floods into the home in the main dining area.
The exterior, too, celebrates reclaimed materials, featuring barn pieces and fossil stone tiles that continue the narrative begun indoors.
kitchen. Complete with a grill, built-in refrigerator, and ample counter space, the kitchen is designed to accommodate both casual family meals and sophisticated entertaining. Adjacent lies a resort-style pool and spa area, a refreshing escape from the heat that invites relaxation and leisure.
“No expense was spared in creating an outdoor experience that rivals any high-end resort,” Cronin said.
Adding further to the outdoor experience is an inviting shower and a unique sitting area designed to provide a quiet retreat from the sun. A screened-in porch, which has quickly become a favorite among visitors, offers uninterrupted views of the private boardwalk that leads directly to the beach. This boardwalk is a signature feature of the property, giving residents exclusive access to the sandy shores of South Forest Beach.
Above the porch, a crow’s nest sunbathing area and a
cozy fire pit create spaces designed for both relaxation and social gatherings. Additionally, the property features a deep four-car garage and a spacious private laundry room, underscoring the meticulous attention to modern conveniences without compromising charm.
While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, its engineering prowess is equally impressive. The property’s build envelope has been meticulously engineered
Every modern detail – from energy-efficient lighting to an advanced climate control system – has been optimized to ensure that the home performs at the highest level while minimizing environmental impact.
to offer superior energy efficiency and resilience against the coastal elements.
“I have slept through some pretty wicked storms and always woken up to a dry house. The build envelope is truly incredible,” homeowner White said.
Every modern detail – from energy-efficient lighting to an advanced climate control system – has been optimized to ensure that the home performs at the highest level while minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to energy efficiency is particularly significant in a coastal setting, where the interplay of sun, sea, and wind can present unique challenges. The result is a home that not only exudes beauty and sophistication but also offers peace of mind and longterm durability.
A celebration of community and coastal culture
Despite its location on one of the busiest beaches in the area, the property offers a rare sense of seclusion and tranquility. Surrounded by dozens of majestic live oaks and other indigenous flora, the estate is enveloped in a natural beauty that is both calming and inspiring.
“The maritime forest surrounding this home was relatively untouched, except for the home’s footprint,” White said. “The way the view corridor was opened up here is nothing short of brilliant. It feels like walking through a living gallery every day.”
Wildlife plays an integral role in the property’s character. White tells of encounters with deer that roam freely across the estate and the daily spectacle of pelicans soaring along the coastline.
“It’s not just a house – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem,” he said.
This natural vibrancy creates a dynamic backdrop that transforms with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh perspective.
A critical component of 9 Bayberry Lane’s transformation is the creative vision of interior designer Greta Fox. Although the home was initially acquired in its “as is” state, Fox was instrumental in uniting the eclectic mix of reclaimed materials
with contemporary furnishings. Her work has elevated the property’s interior design to an art form that balances vintage charm with modern sophistication.
“Greta truly pulled it all together for us,” White said.
The interiors now reflect a balanced interplay between history and innovation, where every color, texture, and piece of furniture has been chosen to enhance the overall narrative of the home.
This boardwalk is a signature feature of the property, giving residents exclusive access to the sandy shores of South Forest Beach.
“Every space, every detail, feels intentional and part of the larger story of this house,” Cronin said, highlighting the seamless integration of creative vision and practical design.
A rare opportunity in a competitive market
In today’s competitive real estate landscape, finding a property that marries historical authenticity with modern luxury is an uncommon occurrence. This is not your typical beachfront home; it is a meticulously crafted work of art that offers an exceptional blend of sustainability, heritage, and innovation.
“There’s nowhere else quite like it,” Cronin said. “This isn’t your run-of-the-mill beach house; it’s a living piece of art that tells a story of transformation and legacy.”
For prospective buyers, the property presents an opportunity not only to own a remarkable home but also to become a part of a storied legacy. Every reclaimed beam and hand-carved tile reflects the creative vision and dedication that have gone into making this residence so unique.
The integration of modern conveniences and energyefficient engineering further enhances its appeal, positioning 9 Bayberry Lane as a true investment in both lifestyle and sustainability. From its inception as a daring experiment in reclaimed construction to its evolution into a luxurious coastal retreat, every facet of the property is imbued with a sense of purpose and artistry.
“This home tells a story of transformation – of embracing the old while innovating for the future,” Cronin said. “It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of art that is as functional as it is beautiful.” His words resonate with anyone who steps through the doors of this unique space, inviting them to experience a home where history, modernity, and community converge.
For buyers in search of a residence that defies convention, a home that offers direct beachfront access while narrating a compelling story through its design, 9 Bayberry Lane represents an unparalleled opportunity. The property’s rare combination of reclaimed materials and modern luxury makes it a standout in Hilton Head’s competitive real estate market. Ultimately, this is not merely a beachfront property; this home is a beacon for those who appreciate art, history, and the refined pleasures of coastal living.
As the next chapter unfolds, prospective buyers are invited to experience firsthand the unmatched beauty and ingenuity of this residence, where every detail tells a story and every space celebrates the fusion of the past with the promise of the future. It remains a living, breathing work of art, poised to welcome its new owners into a legacy of luxury, innovation, and community.
Article by Barry Kaufman
Scents of Love
AT SEA LOVE, FINE TUNE A FRAGRANCE THAT’S ALL YOUR OWN
For every happy memory in your head, there’s a certain aroma that can put you right there in the moment. The chocolatey sweetness of childhood trips to the candy store. The earthy petrichor that followed the last rainy day before the best summer ever. The subtle florals of Grandma’s perfume interweaving with savory herbal notes as she taught you how to make her famous red sauce.
It’s all there, the vision of it, the sound of it – as soon as the right aroma comes along to unlock it all.
“A lot of people have a scent that’s attached to memories, like remembering the smell of honeysuckle that grew outside the front door of your childhood home,” said Melissa Monge, co-owner of Sea Love in the Shops at Sea Pines Center.
She knows the strength of that connection better than most. At Sea Love, recreating memories is as simple as diving into the more than 100 different fragrances on offer at this unique candle bar and boutique. But more than recreating memories, it’s a place for creating them.
“It’s a unique scent-blending experience for all ages. Guests can custom make their own candle or reed diffuser, with guidance from our Certified Scent Stylists® ,” Monge said. “We can seat 18 people at a time, and guests can enjoy mimosas, beer and wine, coffee, and soft drinks as they create. It’s a great place to do something different.”
Hosting large groups and private parties or just anyone who wants to try their hand at scent craft, Sea Love surrounds the experience with a unique boutique selling custom fragrances and thoughtfully curated apparel, décor, and items for the home. With the guidance of a scent stylist, visitors choose three scents to blend together from a selection of more than 100 fragrances and craft something entirely theirs.
“Probably the hardest part of the experience is picking your three different scents. We have an entire wall of them,” said Brown, who leans toward champagne, honeysuckle and salt water in her own fragrances. “I love any of the fragrances that are fresh and clean smelling, they make me feel calm and relaxed.“
"And best of all, each candle is made with 100% soy wax and features all-cotton wicks, and all diffuser scents are made with the finest fragrance oils and
essential oils, creating scents that are as unique as they are worryfree. “These days, people are increasingly concerned about what they’re breathing and putting in their bodies, and we're proud to offer safer ingredients,” Monge said.
Both Monge and director of operations Sarah Brown hail from Cape May, New Jersey, but Monge moved here first, arriving 16 years ago, where she first noticed a gap in the island’s offerings. “There weren’t a ton of all-ages activities,” she said. Inspiration struck when she and her fiancé, Jeremy Modzelewski, were traveling to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and found themselves inside a Sea Love location.
“We both made candles and it was so much fun. I think Jeremy enjoyed it even more than I did,” Monge said. “We both realized that Hilton Head needed this.”
The plan was set, the spot in the Shops at Sea Pines Center was found, and with Brown joining her on the island, all the pieces were in place. “She was looking for a career change, and I couldn’t do this without her,” Monge said. “We’re both Jersey girls and we work really well together.”
Or, to put it in olfactory terms, they’re like two great aromas that just work together perfectly. You can find your own perfect blend by stopping by their boutique in the Shops at Sea Pines Center, visiting sealovehiltonhead.com, or calling (843) 548-3823.
Marissa Elise Photography
Melissa Monge and Sarah Brown
Sea Love is located at the Shops at Sea Pines Center.
With the guidance of a scent stylist, visitors choose three scents to blend together from a selection of more than 100 fragrances.
Article by Barry Kaufman
More for Your Floor
HILTON HEAD’S FLOORS TO GO EXPANDS TO BLUFFTON
For a quarter century, Floors to Go has been giving Hilton Head Islanders an elevated experience in buying flooring. On an island with discerning tastes, Floors to Go has suited those tastes with a brilliantly curated selection of hardwoods, laminates, carpets, tile, stone, and luxury vinyl planks, all delivered with a higher degree of customer care than the big box stores could ever dream of.
“It’s a completely different experience than a big box store. We can compete on price, but beyond that we want to make it a little more personal,” said P.J. Horseman, vice president of the company. “Customers here are going to get an education. And we stand behind our word.”
Horseman purchased the company in April of last year, having been a client for more than 20 years through his restoration business. As a repeat client, he understood exactly what sets Floors to Go apart: It’s the people.
“We have people who have been here for a long time. That definitely helps, having that personal relationship with the staff,” Horseman said. “We’re taking all those principles and making it even better.”
And those principles, including attentive and personalized customer service that aims to make the flooring selection and installation process as smooth and stress-free as possible, have led Floors to Go through 25 years of continued success on the island. Commercial and residential clients know when they step into the showroom that they’re going to receive
Photography by M.Kat
The Floors to Go Team: (from left to right) Johan Joves, Manny Perez, P.J. Horseman, Nathalia Rivera, Jorge Rivera, Aaron Martinez, Ruth Portillo, Ernesto Martinez (with daughter Arlet Martinez), Joey Dyer, Harry Skevington, Katrina Johnie, Peggy Mitchell and Chris Horseman
help from someone who knows their products inside and out. It’s a reputation that the national brand established, and one that the Hilton Head Island location perfected with staff who prioritize service over the sale.
It is something that has always worked for Floors to Go. And taking what works and improving it has been the name of the game for Horseman.
“We’ve gone to all the trade shows since taking over, the franchise show, and the big show in Vegas,” Horseman said. “We’re trying to be a little more unique, bringing in
A sample shower in the showroom invites customers to imagine the possibilities.
some new lines and vendors and carrying things no one else does.”
He points to lines like Landmark, a manufacturer and distributor that Floors to Go has brought on, whose engineered hardwood, porcelain tiles, and other products meet a higher standard of quality. Working directly with Landmark gives Floors to Go better pricing to pass on to customers, while preserving the reputation for quality they’ve built over the past 25 years.
But that’s hardly the only innovation that Horseman
Peggy Mitchell is ready to welcome customers at the new showroom in Bluffton.
has unveiled since taking over the company.
“The previous owner was pretty old school, so we’ve really started using technology to our advantage,” he said. “When you visit the showroom, you’ll find QR codes on all the products that you can scan and get a wealth of information.”
You can even use their website’s room visualizer to take those first steps in refreshing your space. All you need to do is snap a picture of the room, upload it to the site, and then marvel at the possibilities as you “try on” a staggering array of different flooring options, as well as wall colors, area rugs,
and countertops. It’s a high-tech innovation that perfectly complements the company’s reputation for personal service.
But that’s not even the biggest thing that Horseman has introduced. As part of his mission to not only improve the brand, but expand it, the company recently opened its Bluffton showroom, close enough that its bank of windows gives motorists on Fording Island Road a first tantalizing hint at the selection within.
“Our showroom out there is more than 7,000 square feet and it is beautiful. There’s really nothing like it in the area,” Horseman said. “As successful as we’ve been on Hilton Head Island, we’d had almost zero footprint in Bluffton, so we’re excited to begin working with designers, builders, and locals across the bridge.”
A grand opening celebration featuring a performance by local icon and The Voice contestant Stee gave Blufftonians their first introduction to something Hilton Head Island had enjoyed for 25 years. Among those beautifully renovated 7,000-square-feet, guests experienced how Floors to Go doesn’t just sell flooring, it sells possibilities. It sets before you every type of flooring imaginable, for any possible use, for any possible taste, and guides you toward exactly what you were dreaming of, with customer care that goes above and beyond.
“We feel like we’re the leaders on Hilton Head Island, and we’re looking forward to bringing that to Bluffton,” Horseman said.
To find out more, visit Floors to Go at 123 Mathews Drive on Hilton Head Island, 1204 Fording Island Road in Bluffton, or online at ftgohhi.com.
A wide variety of carpeting options are available from Floors to Go.
Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by Hunter Acker
Grime Fighters
Home looking a little green around the gills? Send in the Mod Squad.
It’s coming. With every bright sunny summer day, its breadth expands.
It starts out innocently enough, just a slight greenish tint to your walls and windows – almost unnoticeable. But before long, fueled by the damp humidity of summer and the thick shade of the island’s tree canopy, it spreads. Like bruises of dark emerald against crisp white clapboard or earthy stucco, these stubborn patches of algae make it clear they’re not going anywhere. They won’t stop until your entire home has been re-painted in hues of green and black, mold and algae claiming surfaces as their own.
“We have a lot of tree coverage here, and when moisture gets on something and doesn’t have the sun to dry it off, that’s when algae starts to develop,” said Jeremy Modzelewski. “When you have a lot of roofs under a lot of trees, it’s only a matter of time.”
Before it comes to that, you have a local business on your side whose hundreds of five-star reviews and dedication to the latest technology makes them algae’s worst enemy. They’re Mod Squad Services, and they’re here to clean up this town.
“We have a large crew, and we’re able to get a lot done, but we’re also a family-owned business,” said Modzelewski, who is part of the squad with his brother, Rick, and son, Alex. “The whole squad grew up here, so we’re proud to be in business and working here and want to make sure it’s clean.”
They do so by utilizing the latest equipment that the industry has to offer, like the pure water system they use for high exterior windows. Feeding your home’s own water through a resin chamber filters out any and all impurities, ensures that what comes flooding out of the end of the
brush is as crystal clear as your windows will soon be.
You’ll find the same high-tech approach in all their services, from window cleaning to soft and power washing and dryer vent cleaning. Behind it all is a dedication to professionalism that has set the Mod Squad apart. Those five-star reviews we mentioned? Look them up. You’ll see how the Mod Squad operates on a higher level than most.
“Our squad has become a working family, who work well together and collaborate to make everything shine,” Modzelewski said. Their high-quality work speaks for itself. Their ultimate goal is to form trusting, sustainable relationships with clients so they know they will always be taken care of (and seeing their post-wash smiles is an added bonus).”
Modzelewski learned early on the importance of professionalism while running a family business, Ugly Duct Cleaning, for years. With Mod Squad Services, he’s married that expertise with new technologies to expand his scope and take on the worst that algae season has to offer.
“It’s that time of year right now. There are a lot of shortterm rental companies getting houses prepared for the season, so we’re getting whupped right now. But we’re keeping up,” he said. Because algae never stops growing, the Mod Squad never stops fighting it back.
Mod- Squad offers an array of services, including exterior power and soft washing of homes, pool decks, driveways, porches, patios, decks, and walkways, as well as interior and exterior window cleaning, dryer vent and gutter cleaning.
To protect your home against the annual incursion of algae and mold, visit modsquadserv.com or call 843-8952800.
Alex Modzelewski, Rick Modzelewski, Jeremy Modzelewski, Allan Hayes, & Rez Green.
The Mod-Squad team is shown surface cleaning a driveway and soft washing a house.
Article by Barry Kaufman
by M.Kat
COLIGNY ROLLS OUT ANNUAL SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
There is a soundtrack of summer on Hilton Head Island. Across our beaches, it’s the steady rush of the surf, with the cawing of gulls overhead. In the marshes, it’s the nightly chorus of frogs croaking to one another through the Spartina grass towering over their heads.
But nowhere does summer sound sweeter than at Coligny Center Stage. Above the gentle echo of the beach’s tidal rhythm, it’s heard in the rustle of palmetto fronds dancing in the breeze, the laughter of children between slurps of an ice cream cone, the hum of families enjoying some well-earned time together, and the buzz of local businesses entering the busy season.
This summer soundtrack will reach its crescendo every day at 6:30 p.m. when Coligny’s Summer Music Series brings a fresh act to the main stage. More than just a schedule of performances, this series is a celebration of the island’s rich musical culture, with a lineup of musicians who have played their own indelible part in our community’s song.
“We’ve always prided ourselves on our commitment to our island’s local musicians,” said JR Richardson, whose family founded Coligny 70 years ago. “There’s a rich heritage on Hilton Head Island of fostering talented musicians. We consider this our opportunity to show them off to the thousands of visitors and locals who make us part of their summer.”
The lineup for Coligny’s Summer Music Series always represents a cross-section of the best players in town, and in this year’s Platinum Jubilee summer they have pulled out all the stops.
On Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, kids of all ages will make their way to the stage for the always-popular Jevon Daly Kid’s Show. Side-splittingly funny, wonderfully interactive, and fueled by Daly’s celebrated musicianship and boundless creativity, this show has become a treasured tradition. Kids get to join Daly onstage, sharing what their superpower is and making music of their own. It’s those kids, and the parents who get to be a kid for a few hours, that have brought Daly back year after year.
“Families come back every year and they have their ‘Sharks Are Our Homies’ shirts on,” said Daly, referencing both his signature song and his penchant for merchandising. “I’m kind of a part of their family for a week then they get to give me back to mine. It’s my dream.”
The two halves of the incredibly popular local duo Pretty Darn, renowned for their unique blend of heartfelt tunes and magnetic stage presence, bookend Daly’s Wednesday shows, with Kyle Wareham performing Tuesday and Nick Poulin performing Thursday. Each gets a chance to showcase their solo shows, blending originals and covers in a style all
their own. On Saturday, Mike Kavanaugh takes the stage, pulling from his incredibly deep setlist of more than 750 songs to put on another in a string of legendary shows that have been keeping island toes tapping for decades.
Rounding out the lineup, on Monday nights, John Cranford and Eric Reid will showcase their versatile musicianship. As half of the iconic island band Cranford Hollow, their performances as a duo carry the DNA of their band’s Southern rock, dialed down to a blissful acoustic sound.
“The Coligny Center Stage shows are some of my favorites of the year,” Cranford said. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase both original and cover music to a huge variety of tourists from all over the world.”
Each musician brings their own signature sound to the Summer Music Series, adding to a soundtrack that’s unmistakably Coligny.
Photography
> Nick Poulin
> Jevon Daly
> Mike Kavanaugh
ARTICLE BY BECCA EDWARDS
Tips for New Empty Nesters
Empty nest syndrome. It is a real psychological phenomenon that comes complete with symptoms such as grief, anxiety, loss of purpose, marital stress, loneliness, irritability, guilt, and even depression. When all our little birds become big (and opinionated and magically selfsufficient despite still being on the parental payroll) and fly the well-crafted nest we have provided, it is a big life transition.
Many parents describe periods of unprovoked tears and experience a sudden void in their lives. One friend likened being an empty nester to phantom limb syndrome and said, “I just felt like a piece of me that should be there was gone.” Another said,
“The house was just too quiet, I couldn’t stand being home anymore.”
For you parents out there who are about to send your little bundle of joy off to a school that most likely costs a bundle, there’s good news: You can simultaneously say goodbye to your kids and hello to a new chapter in your life. Here are 10 empty nesting tips:
Tip 1: Acknowledge the Change
The first step to any life change truly is acceptance. Acknowledge that your home is now childless, and you might constantly worry about your young adult child entering the real world and forgetting all about you, and you might question
your purpose in life, and you might suddenly miss doing loads of laundry, and – well, you get the picture. Connect with what you are feeling. You do not have to love your feelings, but you do have to identify them and then focus on the positive aspects of this new phase, like fewer runs to the grocery store.
Tip 2: Celebrate Your Accomplishments
It’s not easy raising kids to be functional humans who eventually declare a major so that they can maybe one day contribute to society or, at the very least, pay taxes. You did that! Bask in the glory of your parental tutelage. Also, get excited for your children about whatever adventures (or misadventures) they will embark on.
Tip 3: Explore New Hobbies
You were an interesting person before kids. Maybe you did half marathons. Maybe you went to concerts instead of just high school musicals. Guess what? You liked it then and you will most likely like it now. You can also be open to new things. Is there something like learning a new language or taking up Mahjong that always piqued your interest? Now is the time to “sprichst Deutsch” and tile shuffle.
Tip 4: Travel
There are 195 countries in the world. Maybe you and your spouse want a romantic getaway to Southern Italy. Maybe you and your college besties need a reunion in Costa Rica. Or maybe you want to go solo and do a yoga retreat in Bali. Put aside some savings and junior’s tuition on your credit card and see where those Delta miles will take you.
Tip 5: Reconnect with Your Spouse or Partner
There is a reason you produced offspring with your spouse or partner: Love. Reconnect with that love. Start small by taking walks together. Maybe those walks will evolve into a weekend hiking trip to North Carolina or a two-week trek along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Odds are, now that you are no longer juggling flaming swords (also known as kids’ conflicting schedules), you can take the time to enjoy your significant other and talk about something other than your children.
Tip 6: Volunteer
No, you do not have to go out and become the next Mother Teresa or celebrity with a cause kick, but you can find things to do within your community that enrich it. This could be as simple as starting a pickleball group or book club and as meaningful as volunteering at The Boys and Girls Club or Hilton Head Humane Association.
Tip 7: Maintain Connection with Your Child
This tip comes with a caveat. Stay connected with your child but do not smother him or her. Set a day and time of the week like Sunday late afternoon to FaceTime with your child and catch up. Also, come up with a visitation calendar. Your child comes home for Christmas, and you stalk them wherever they go for spring break – I mean, you make arrangements to go visit them during parents’ weekend.
Tip 8: Phone a Friend
One comfort in life is that whatever you are going through, someone else has probably already gone through it or is currently going through it. Reach out to your parents and ask them how they dealt with you going away to college. If they answer something flippant like, “You went to college?” then ask another more maternal or paternal figure in your life. Talk to friends who have a year or two or 10 of empty nesting under their belt or grab a cup of coffee or glass of wine with a fellow newbie empty nester and brainstorm about coping strategies.
Tip 9: Consult a Therapist
Between your child’s science fair freak-outs and late-night sneak-outs, I’m willing to wager you’ve got a little therapy due your way. If you are truly feeling blue, consult a therapist. For most of us, this time in our life is happening alongside hormonal shifts anyway. Do a muchneeded spring cleaning of your brain with a healthcare professional. Your older self will thank you (and most likely your spouse or partner will, too).
Tip 10:
Check in with Yourself Regularly
Empty nester syndrome symptoms will ebb and flow. Check in with yourself regularly and practice the self-help acronym AIM: acknowledge, investigate and move on. Not all of these tips are going to resonate with you, but the hope is that several do. Two of my three children will spread their wings next year and I have already started to mentally prepare. I’ll be your Tip 8, if you’ll be mine. And, if all else fails, maybe we get a Labrador retriever. Unlike kids, apparently, they take well to commands and will cuddle with you even when they are full-grown.
Sheila Tucker, owner of Heart, Mind & Soul Counseling.
Article by Sheila Tucker . Photography by M.Kat
FROM ‘HUH?’ TO HERO: The Impact of Active Listening
There it was, the dreaded ball spinning on my computer. I went into panic mode. My body stiffened. I held my breath. Did I save my project? The one I’d spent so many hours creating and overthinking?
Then the dreaded response: No connection. Cut off. Noooo! I hope I didn’t lose everything I’d worked so hard on. Am I going to need to start over? Will there be anything left for me to work with?
I caught myself in a doom spiral, instantly leaping
to the worst-case scenario like an off-brand not-sosuperhero. I have zero faith that Captain Oh-CrapYou’re-Doomed will rescue me. But here I am.
I see a similar look of “Oh no” when the partner of a couple says the dreaded phrase, “You’re not here for me.” Meanwhile, the other person looks around, mentally noting everything they’ve just done for their partner’s sake.
You’ve just taken the cars in for oil changes, collected your grumpy child from their friend’s home,
and picked up takeout. You look at your partner like they have two heads, maybe even throw in a complimentary eye roll, head shake, and a scoff.
Then you ask: “What are you talking about? I did (listing all of the things you’ve done).” Your partner becomes angrier. ‘You just don't get me,” they say. You become frustrated, telling yourself that you can’t do enough or nothing you do pleases them.
It’s the spinning ball of doom. You feel you have no connection, cut off from your partner. You don’t know how to make it all make sense. You’re confused. You don’t understand how your partner could feel this way. You do so much. I mean, look at this list.
It probably comes as no surprise when I say strong relationships require good communication. To be clear, it’s not stellar or perfect – it’s simply good communication.
What’s the quickest way to good communication? It’s listening.
Before you come at me with, “All I ever do is listen and nod in agreement,” even if you have no clue what just happened, I’m talking about a more nuanced and active type of listening.
Let me explain.
Your partner’s comment feels like it’s coming out of left field. You don’t what prompted it. To you, the situation is no big deal. Zero urgency or pain. On the other hand, your partner is experiencing it as an 11 out of 10, with copious amounts of pain. In other words, it’s a big freaking problem to them.
And you’re both right. I know it’s confusing. What do you do? You actively listen to understand instead of respond. Here are a few tips.
1. Get curious and clarify. Are you sure you heard what your partner was saying? Not your assumptions – what you thought they said or the stories you made up about their tone or facial expression – but the actual words.
Try asking one or all of these questions for more clarity.
• When you mentioned ______, what were you actually saying?
• What did you mean by ______?
• Are you saying ________? Did I get that right?
2. Reflect what you hear them saying. No defensiveness, no correcting details, no doing it to make your partner stop. They will sniff out your lack of genuineness, and it will set you back.
• Lead with, “Let me see if I understand what you’re saying” and repeat what you believe you heard.
3. Infuse some empathy. There’s always some emotion holding up what your partner is saying. Sometimes, it's super obvious – other times, not so much. Even if you think you know their underlying emotion, make an effort to know for sure.
Here are a few ways the conversation can go using the above scenario: Your partner says “You don’t get me. You never get me.”
• Not helpful: “I did all these things (list the things). I don’t know what you want me to do. Whatever I do isn’t good enough for you.”
This comment can come across as defensive and attacking. Mostly, it doesn’t bring you closer to understanding.
• Better: “I’m so sorry. You must be incredibly frustrated with me.”
This comment calls out the perceived frustration. However, it could go deeper.
• Best: “It seems like I’m missing the mark. It must be really lonely to feel like you’re in a relationship with a partner who doesn’t get you.”
In this response, you’re holding yourself accountable (whether you agree or not) and calling out the perceived loneliness your partner might be experiencing.
4. Nonverbal cues. When you thought finding the right words was hard, enter how you show up to the conversation. Nonverbal cues are things like facial expressions or how you hold your body. Here are a few ways to hone your nonverbal presence to show your partner you’re there for them.
• Sit or stand facing your partner.
• Slightly lean in.
• Keep a relaxed posture (shoulders away from your ears and maybe uncrossing your arms).
• Look at your partner (not your phone, the television, the dog, or anything else).
5. Ask open-ended questions. Not only will this help you remain engaged, but it also takes the conversation deeper. Using the scenario above, here’s a suggestion.
“What’s it like when you feel I just don’t get you?”
Using your partner’s answer, you can ask another open-ended question.
Disagreements and communication snafus within a relationship are inevitable. However, missteps aren’t the enemy; it’s how you handle them. According to Esther Perel, a leading expert on relationships and sexuality, “Behind every criticism is a veiled wish.” Active listening helps you to understand the wish.
For the sake of transparency, active listening isn’t easy (especially when emotions are heightened), and it isn’t a one-and-done process. It takes time, a lot of do-overs, and consistency.
It’s about keeping your eye on the prize. When you and your partner experience being seen, heard, and understood, your communication will improve, your relationship will grow stronger, and you’ll feel reassured that a spinning ball of doom doesn’t need to lead to a tragic loss of connection.
JUNE’S TWO BIG ITEMS: BUDGET AND HURRICANE SEASON
By the beginning of June each year, the Town of Hilton Head Island has two very important messages we must convey to the public. First, we present the final consolidated budget for the upcoming fiscal year (FY July 1 to June 30); second, we remind the community of the importance of emergency preparedness as we begin another hurricane season.
On May 6, Town Council passed unanimously the proposed FY26 consolidated budget with a 7-0 vote on first reading. Just to state it, that has not happened in the past several years and I think it signals a huge step forward for our island community. The balanced budget totals $174,711,350 million in projected revenues and scheduled expenditures. It spans six major funds and includes a 2-millage (mills) property tax rate reduction, decreasing the rate from 21.4 mills to 19.4 mills. At the time of my writing, I anticipate that the budget will pass its second reading on June 3.
Town Manager Marc Orlando and his team have done a fantastic job in exploring avenues to cut operational costs, save money for rainy days, move our strategic priorities forward, and become even more fiscally responsible. We’re putting shovels in the ground on some big projects, supporting economic growth, and I’m particularly excited about the forthcoming, long-awaited improvements in our land management ordinance. By no means is this an exhaustive list of what we plan to accomplish. I encourage you to take a deep dive into the budget materials on the town’s website because I think you will be pleased with how well it positions us for success now and in the future.
MAYOR
LESSONS LEARNED: PREPARING FOR THE 2025 HURRICANE SEASON
As hurricane season begins June 1, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned in Bluffton from past storms, and how those lessons are helping us prepare for whatever may come in 2025.
Since 2016, Bluffton has been tested by hurricanes including Matthew, Irma, Florence, Dorian, and Michael. While we’ve been fortunate to avoid a direct hit, these events have given us valuable experience and insight. We’ve strengthened our procedures, improved coordination, and created detailed checklists so we can respond more efficiently and recover faster.
One key lesson is the importance of preparation. As Town Manager Stephen Steese often says, “The key to a timely recovery of any weather event is to prepare.” That means making your communication and evacuation plans now – not when a storm is approaching. Know where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and how you’ll stay in touch with your loved ones.
We also learned how critical it is for residents to play an active role. For example, blocked storm drains and ditches, often on private property, can lead to avoidable flooding. We need every resident to be part of our stormwater protection team. If you see a drain or ditch near your property, please check it for blockages and clear any debris.
Another challenge we’ve faced is misinformation during emergencies. Please get your updates from official sources like the Town of Bluffton, Beaufort County Emergency Management, and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. Local television stations may focus on nearby areas like Savannah, but local government channels will give you
A Note from Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry
A Note from Bluffton Mayor Larry Toomer
Hurricane Season starts June 1
Stay in-the-know this season by visiting hiltonheadislandsc.gov/hurricane
And now, a reminder about staying ready for anything during hurricane season, which began June 1. There is a wealth of great information and connection to resources on the town’s website (hiltonheadislandsc.gov/hurricane) so you can prepare. I’m also happy to share that, if we do get a storm, the town will operate a new, real-time emergency services dashboard on the website, too. It’s intended to help residents understand what roads might be affected or impassable, damage assessments in residential and commercial areas, and where our town staff are working to restore normalcy.
Please don’t wait until the last minute to have an evacuation plan mapped out, your supplies on hand, and a detailed conversation with your loved ones about hurricane emergency preparedness. Your safety remains our priority – always.
As we move into another season, I urge each of you to review your personal hurricane plan. Make sure your family, pets, and property are prepared. Visit hurricane. sc and townofbluffton.sc.gov for guides and resources. Follow us on social media for timely updates.
the most relevant information.
We’ve also learned that storm decisions – like evacuation orders or school closings – may feel inconvenient, but they’re made with one goal: public safety. Please be patient with the process and understanding of the people behind it.
The town is doing its part, too. Our staff inspects stormwater infrastructure, trims trees on town property, maintains equipment, and coordinates with county and state agencies year-round. We also work with property owners associations and contractors to ensure they’re storm ready.
As we move into another season, I urge each of you to review your personal hurricane plan. Make sure your family, pets, and property are prepared. Visit hurricane.sc and townofbluffton.sc.gov for guides and resources. Follow us on social media for timely updates.
Finally, please remember that preparation is a community effort. Bluffton is stronger when we work together. Stay safe, Bluffton!
A Note from Larry Toomer continued
A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items. You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.
Fun in the Sun for Everyone, an inclusive beach party presented by Pockets Full of Sunshine, is scheduled for Friday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Beach activities are planned for people with special needs, their families, and friends in front of the Marriott Surf Watch Resort. All ages and abilities are invited to join in the fun.
This annual event gives all community members the opportunity to enjoy the beach in a safe and inclusive setting. Activities will include paddle boarding, boogie boarding, surfing, beach games, and relaxation. Lifeguards and volunteers will be on hand to ensure a safe environment for all. Adult/caregiver supervision is required for all attendees. Shuttles from the parking lot to the beach will be provided. Beach access is wheelchair accessible.
Fun in the Sun for Everyone has grown from a 2015 Special Needs Surf Day, started by local high school surfer James Bartholomew, who wanted to provide a fun day of surfing for his sister and her classmates with special needs.
Pre-registration for participants and volunteers is strongly encouraged. Visit pocketsfullofsun.org for more information and to register online. For sponsorship information, contact Laurin Rivers at spreadthesun@gmail.com. Pockets Full of Sunshine is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The Swingin’ Medallions, known as The Party Band of the South, will perform at the Jasper County Farmers Market at 7 p.m. Friday, June 13. This will be the 16th year the group has performed for this event.
Celebrated for their signature hit song, “Double Shot of My Baby’s Love,” which Bruce Springsteen once called “the greatest fraternity rock song of all time,” the Swingin’ Medallions are South Carolina-bred, from Greenwood. Their timeless highoctane style features an ever-popular horn section. The band has been energizing crowds at colleges, festivals, reunions, and beach venues almost continuously since 1962, blending the sounds of yesterday and today. Gates will open at 6 p.m., with the concert starting at 7 p.m. Food trucks will be on-site from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be “drinking wristbands” for persons 21 and older, available for $20 each. Attendees are asked to bring lawn chairs. The event will be held rain or shine. Coolers are not permitted.
Advance admission is $20. Tickets purchased at the gate on concert night will be $30. Advance tickets may be purchased by calling the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce at (843) 726-8126.
Jasper County Farmers Market is located at 9935 South Jacob Smart Blvd. (U.S. Hwy. 17) on the south side of Ridgeland, which can be accessed from I-95 at Exits 18 or 21. For more information visit JasperCountyChamber.com.
Local artist, instructor, and lifelong creative Joan Moreau McKeever presents “The Art of Discovery Continues,” a display of her current work, at Art League Gallery June 17-July 18. An opening reception will be held Wednesday, June 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., and a washi tape demo is scheduled for Friday, June 20, at 1:30 p.m. The exhibit, reception, and demo are free and open to the public.
The exhibit is a celebration of exploration, featuring works in a variety of media – pastel, acrylic, mixed media, Japanese washi tape, cold wax, and oil – reflecting McKeever’s artistic philosophy that “curiosity is a gift and discovery is a lifelong journey.”
From childhood charcoal drawings and summer sculpture classes at Wooster School of Art to her current work juried into national shows, McKeever’s creative path has been anything but linear. A former advertising executive, real estate professional, and symphony violist, McKeever returned to fine art full time after moving to South Carolina. She’s since taught workshops in washi tape collage, abstract realism, and Zentangle, including outreach programs at correctional institutions and teacher training institutes.
McKeever has exhibited nationally in New York and Washington D.C., and locally with the Art League, SOBA, and the University of South Carolina. Her work has earned numerous awards, including First Place in Pastel and Mixed Media and recognition from the National Association of Women Artists (NAWA).
For more information, visit artleaguehhi.org or call (843) 681-5060. Art League Gallery is located at 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island.
In May, Priscilla Loeben of Palmetto Hall captured this photo of a rare bird – an albino, or leucistic, Eastern bluebird – in one of her bluebird boxes. Sightings of white bluebirds is extremely rare in South Carolina, and in all of the United States.
Baroque Pearl Necklaces. By Joan Moreau McKeever
On April 15, SCORE, the nation’s largest provider of free business mentoring services to aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses, held its annual celebration and awards ceremony, attended by SCORE SC Lowcountry volunteers, clients, sponsors, and honored guests.
The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina was awarded Nonprofit of the Year honors at the event, presented by its SCORE mentor, David Gray.
“It has been my pleasure and honor to work with the Arts Center –a truly remarkable organization. This recognition is well-deserved. It’s a reflection of the vision and values that guide everything they do,” Gray said.
For more information on the Arts Center, visit artshhi.com. To learn more about SCORE SC Lowcountry, visit score. org/sclowcountry.
Kalie Clark has joined Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty as a Realtor. A Hilton Head Island resident and College of Charleston alumna, Clark offers a deep understanding of the local real estate market and a genuine passion for helping people find their dream home.
Known for her professionalism, warmth, and dedication, Clark is committed to providing personalized service and building lasting relationships. Her local roots, attention to detail, and client-first mindset make her a valuable resource for both buyers and sellers.
Outside Brands recently announced the promotions of three dedicated employees: Shannon Cronin, Brittany Willard, and Meghan Traylor.
Cronin has been named reservations manager, a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional leadership, dedication, and deep knowledge of the Lowcountry’s adventure offerings.
Hailing from Maryland, Cronin has called this area home for more than 30 years. Since joining Outside in the spring of 2021, she has made an extraordinary impact on the guest experience, streamlining operations across multiple booking platforms and helping connect countless travelers to unforgettable outdoor excursions.
With an extensive background in reservations and guest services within the local watersports industry, Cronin is uniquely equipped to lead in her new role. Her thoughtful approach, combined with a passion for hospitality and adventure, makes her the perfect fit to manage and elevate our reservation systems.
Willard has stepped into the role of operations director at Outside Palmetto Bluff (OPB), a pivotal position as the location reopens its retail operations. Willard’s energy, insight, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made her an integral part of the Outside team. With a background in reservations and guest services, she brings a well-rounded perspective to operations leadership, along with a proven ability to foster lasting relationships across the Palmetto Bluff community.
In her new role, she will lead day-to-day operations at OPB, working to ensure a seamless, high-quality experience both behind the scenes and on the retail floor. This transition allows her to focus full-time on the location she’s most passionate about.
Willard’s leadership reflects the company’s ongoing investment in talent development and its commitment to creating extraordinary guest experiences rooted in the Lowcountry lifestyle.
Traylor has been promoted to serve as executive assistant to CEO Mike Overton, a role that reflects both her deep institutional knowledge and unwavering dedication over more than a decade.
With more than 12 years of experience at Outside Brands, her journey has been extraordinary. She began her career as a kayak guide and has since held a variety of key roles, including retail buyer, director of retail, and, most recently, DMC operations manager. Her broad understanding of the company’s culture, operations, and guest experience makes her uniquely qualified to support Overton.
Traylor will oversee scheduling, communications, and strategic coordination of special projects on behalf of the CEO.
For more information about the company, visit outsidebrands.com.
Brittany Willard Meghan Traylor Shannon Collins
MONDAYS
Free Golf Clinic
4 p.m.
Robert Trent Jones Course Palmettodunes.com/golf
TUESDAYS
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Farmers & Makers Market
The Shops at Sea Pines Center
TUESDAYS
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Hilton Head Farmers Market
Coastal Discovery Museum
70 Honey Horn Drive
SATURDAYS
Hilton Head Community Market
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Shelter Cove Community Park
Local artists, makers, farmers
SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
Coligny Center Stage 6:30 p.m.
Different Musicians Daily
JEVON DALY KIDS’ SHOW
6:30 p.m. Sun-W-F
Coligny Center Stage
GREGG RUSSELL SUMMER
CONCERTS
M-Th, 8-9:30 p.m.
Liberty Oak at Harbour Town
CAPPY THE CLOWN
Kids Activities
M-F, 6-9 p.m.
Shelter Cove Harbour
12-14
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Mitchelville Freedom Park
exploremitchelville.com
3, 10, 17, 24
Tuesdays in June
HARBOURFEST
Shannon Tanner & Fireworks
6:30-9 p.m.
Shelter Cove Harbour
10
FOUNDATION FIGHTING BLINDNESS
70 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite L 10:30 a.m.-noon blindness.org
