The Shoal - Issue 13

SHOAL THE

Nicki Roper

As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscape, communities come alive with the spirit of fall festivals. These cherished gatherings celebrate not only the changing season but also the bonds that unite us. Whether through harvest fairs, costume parades, or apple picking adventures, these events infuse a sense of belonging and shared joy. As leaves fall, a sense of community blossoms, reminding us of the warmth that comes from gathering.

Nicki has been a staple at the Marina store for the past three years. She is a Beaufort native who grew up on the water and enjoys being active and spending her time outdoors. Nicki enjoys seeing the regulars that circle the Marina store while also getting to know the new visitors. When Nicki is not at the marina working, she enjoys spending time with her family, out on the water, or with her wiener dog, Kegel. You can also find her downtown volunteering alongside her mom, Linda, helping with local festivals, First Fridays, and other area events. A fun fact about Nicki is that she shares a birthday with her dog Kegel.

Club Letter from Club Director, Kristi Suddeth

Hello Club members!

As I write this today, there are 33 days left until college football season begins. My family and I are gearing up to knock the dust off our Clemson and Carolina jerseys in preparation for kickoff. The start of football season means that fall is just around the corner and hopefully some of this demon heat will dissipate. I can assure you, this Clemson gal is ready for some cooler temperatures. However, I would not trade living here for anywhere else. I will tolerate the heat as long as I can get to see all of our members who leave for the summer and come back in the fall. We miss you during the summer! Next time you are on the island, stop in and say “hi”. We would love to see your smiling faces. Even if you are here year round, drop by. We love catching up with all our members, near and far. Whether you live here full-time or visit from time to time, please drop by Excursions to check out the new golf carts and Phat Scooters! There is a new fleet of EZ-Go Liberty Electric Carts. They are really quiet and all four seats are forward facing. These are especially nice for touring first time Frippers and family around the island. The Resort has also ordered Phat Scooters for rentals and for use on the golf courses. I saw one for the first time today and was in awe. Be on the lookout for them and take one for a spin. Cheers, Kristi

New Member Spotlight

-May- -June-

David & Mary Margaret Weiss

James & Carolyn Drone

Christopher & Megan Dean

Jack & Courtney Worrell

Eddie & Katy Franklin

Mark & Sherri Little

Charles & Sharron LaFratta

William & Shannon Grice

Marc Lee & Nicole Correll

Mr. Kelly & Mrs. Jennifer Nyquist

Andrew & Christian Williams

Craig Hevey & Jane Conway

Paul & Lisa Sterba

David & Mary-Ellen Faubert

Chris & Kathy Fennessy

Andy & Luzda McCulloch

Rose Charles

Tony & Dana Smith

Anthony & Elizabeth McCormick

Todd & Mary Stewart Putney

Amanda & William Byers

James & Shannon Brown

Ryan Jordan & Cara-Lynne Thomas

Thomas & Kristin Bendle

Clay & Karen Ryals

Kelly & Joel Garnto

-July-

Laura & Justin Gibson

Stuart & Elizabeth Schnider

Dr. George & Gina Christ

William Litchfield & Kristen Scholz

Golf

Tips & Tricks

Agood skill to practice during the fall months on Fripp would be your recovery shots when you find yourself in a tricky situation. Here’s a few reminders for some shots you might encounter this season:

1. Green-side bunker

Green-side bunker shots require proper technique. Choose a sand wedge or any high-lofted wedge, set up with an open stance, and aim slightly left of the target (for right-handed players). Position the ball forward, grip down slightly, and maintain a smooth swing with a full follow-through. Strike the sand a couple of inches behind the ball, sliding the club through to achieve precision and consistency. Maintaining a steady tempo and confidence in your technique will help you escape bunkers with precision and consistency. Regular practice will sharpen your skills and enable you to handle bunker scenarios with ease.

2. In the trees

Getting stuck behind a tree in golf can be a challenge, but with a little strategic thinking and proper execution, you can navigate your way out of this situation. First, assess your lie and target angle. If you have room for a clear shot, opt for a low-lofted club like a 5-iron or 6-iron. Position the ball back, grip down, and swing smoothly. Visualize the shot and focus on keeping your swing smooth, making solid contact with the ball. If the tree obstructs your full swing, choose a pitching wedge or a similar-lofted club, open the club face slightly and focus on making a controlled, shorter back-swing with a smooth follow-through. The goal here is not to reach the green directly but to advance the ball safely and set yourself up for a manageable approach on the next shot.

3. Missed green

Practicing up and downs in golf is essential for improving your ability to recover from a missed green. To start, create a practice area that simulates real on- course scenarios, with varying lies and distances. Use multiple targets, such as different holes or flags, to practice a variety of shots. Work on chip shots and pitches, landing the ball softly on the green with precise distances. Gradually add challenges like slopes and obstacles, aiming to consistently get the ball up and down in 2 strokes. By dedicating time to practicing up and downs regularly, you’ll build the confidence and skills needed to recover from a missed green on the course.

In these situations, playing smart and avoiding further trouble is often the key to success. By practicing these types of shots, you can save strokes and set yourself up for better scores.

Upcoming Events: September 21st

Callaway demo day

From the Pro Shops

The Gear You’ve Been Wanting . . .

New merchandise lines are now available at the Ocean Point Pro Shop! Stop by to check out the latest clothing from Birdie & Ace!

Maddy Zimmerman, our new assistant golf professional

Racquet Club

Who to Watch?

From the Director of Racquet Sports

Have you ever wondered why we start in the positions we do in doubles? Understanding which player can hit the ball to you first, provides the logical explanation. As a net player when your partner is serving, you know the returner must make the first strike, that is why you face and square up to the returner. The returner’s partner is focused on the server’s partner (after calling the serve) since that is the first player that can hit to them. Once the exchange between baseline players begins we keep to this pattern. When your partner is hitting from the backcourt, you want to watch the opposing net player, once the ball passes that net player, you will now turn and focus on the baseline player

From the Pro Shop

Stay stylish all Fall long!

Upcoming Events:

September 22nd - 24th

Fall Clay Court Tournament

Stop by the Racquet Club to show your Fripp Island pride with this Port & Company t-shirt for $25.

Marina Tournament Ready

As the sweltering heat of summer gradually gives way to the embrace of cooler temperatures, fishing enthusiasts find themselves eagerly anticipating the seasonal shift. The horizon holds promise, and with it, the prospect of better fishing experiences.

With the arrival of autumn, inshore fishing takes center stage, offering a bountiful harvest of flounder, trout, and redfish. These coveted species thrive in the transitional period, their presence more abundant and their bites more eager.

Venturing further from the shore, offshore fishing becomes the focus in the fall months. As the ocean currents shift and marine life responds to nature’s rhythm, bottom fishing enthusiasts can anticipate remarkable encounters. The depths become a realm of excitement, with black grouper and black sea bass becoming the stars of the show. Their powerful struggles against the line, combined with the breathtaking backdrop of the open sea, create a captivating experience for those who seek the thrill of deep-sea angling.

Autumn brings prime opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing, catering to the preferences of every angler. Whether it’s the challenge of reeling in flounder and redfish in the tranquil shallows or the pursuit of black grouper and black sea bass in the expansive offshore domain, the fall season undoubtedly offers something exceptional for everyone willing to cast their line and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors.

From the Marina Store

Stop by the Marina and check out Rheos

Nautical Eyewear!

Rheos is a Charleston based company that produces light weight sunglasses perfect for the outdoors. The best part is that they float in the water! Various styles and frames are available at the Marina Ship Store for $65+.

Upcoming Events:

August 31st to September 2nd

32nd Annual King Fish Tournament

November 24

Kids Fishing Tournament

Activity Center Meet Indie

Say hi to Indie! Indie is the newest scaley recruit to the Activity Center. Indie is an Eastern Indigo snake, formally known as Drymarchon couperi. Her species are often identified by their jet-black coloration, blueish sheen and orange snout. She’s also known as the largest snake in North America and will soon grow to become our largest snake resident in the Activity Center, as her species has the capability to average a whopping seven to nine feet! Eastern Indigos were historically native to South Carolina, Alabama and Mississippi, but sadly due to habitat destruction and fragmentation, this species of nonvenomous snake has now primarily been limited to Florida and Georgia, making Indie an excellent conservation education ambassador. Eastern Indigos will travel three miles when finding a new habitat or food source. If you come visit her in the Activity Center (she loves visitors), you’ll most likely find her in her log or tunneling in her vivarium. Her species in the wild will burrow and take advantage of other species burrows that have been built. These animals will live for 17 to 25 years and make a large impact on their environment. Eastern Indigo snake produces six to twelve eggs once each year. The hatchings will be around 16 to 24 inches long when they hatch. Their food source will be dependent on how large the snake is. Indie will eat little mice, hatching quail, and silverside minnows. As an apex predator in the wild though, her diet would be any smaller animal she would be able to munch on, including venomous rattlesnakes and copperheads!

FrippFest - Save the Date

We can't wait to see you this year at FrippFest - October 6-8, 2023! It's bound to be a great time for all! More info coming soon!

We want your feedback!

As Summer comes to an end, we would love your feedback on our Fit on Fripp Programs. Tell us what you liked, what worked, what could have been better, and what you'd like to see this fall. Click here to send us your thoughts.

Beaufort Festivals

Beaufort, SC is home to several popular festivals throughout the year. As we approach October, there are three which celebrate fall and Beaufort in all her glory – The 29th Annual Shrimp Festival, The Habersham Harvest Festival, the 8th Annual Pat Conroy Literary Festival, and many others.

This year, the 29th annual Shrimp Festival will be held on October 6th and 7th at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in beautiful downtown Beaufort. This annual festival celebrates Lowcountry cuisine, where local area restaurants serve a variety of delicious shrimp dishes. Participants can enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, and a morning 5k run/walk. There will also be an informative educational fair dedicated to highlighting the coastal waterways, unique ecology, and shrimping and fishing industries. There is something for everyone during the Shrimp Festival and admission is free! For more information, please visit www.beaufortshrimpfestival.com.

Hosted in the Habersham Marketplace, the Habersham Harvest Festival is to be held October 13th through 15th. This threeday event is an entertaining and educational street festival where admission is free! Enjoy rides, food, and a sense of community where all ages are welcomed. The learn more about this event, please visit www.habershamharvestfestival.com.

The 8th Annual Pat Conroy Literary Festival will be held October 26th through 29th at the Conroy Center in Beaufort. The festival honors Pat Conroy’s legacy as student, teacher, and mentor. There will be keynote presentations by internationally celebrated authors and journalists, writing workshops, and meet-and-greets with distinguished writers. For more information on this event, please visit https://patconroyliteraryfestival. org.

Octo“PR”Fest is an Octoberfest style party in Port Royal on Paris Avenue that takes place every fall. This festival features local chefs, restaurants, and food trucks serving German-inspired dishes and Octoberfest-style, craft, imported and domestic beers. Festival goers can also expect live music, dancing, and other entertainment like a classic car show, kids zone, and Bikers Against Bullies.

The Beaufort Oyster Festival takes place at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Downtown Beaufort every January. This two day festival coincides with the South Carolina Restaurant Week making it eleven days full of oyster fun! This festival also coincides with the Oyster Boogie 5K run/walk. Businesses, agri-tourism, and eco-cultural business are invited to participate in the event throughout the week in educational, artisan and oystering programs and demonstrations.

This year, the 39th Penn Center Heritage Days will be held November 9th-11th. This three-day cultural event celebrates the Penn Center/Penn School, folk art, food, music, Gullah Geechee history, crafts, and West and Central African cultural legacy. The visitors can expect to enjoy the opening ceremony, youth theatrical performances, documentary screening, craft and food vendors, and live music.

Beaufort Holiday Weekend is a three day seasonal celebration that brings many people to Downtown Beaufort to enjoy entertainment, shopping, Santa, and two different parades. “A Night on the Town” kicks off the three-day celebration where downtown retailers stay open late, local choirs, bands, and other groups provide entertainment to downtown visitors. Visitors bring their chairs and blankets down to the Waterfront Park to watch holiday movies and enjoy popcorn and hot cocoa. Santa Claus lights the official Christmas tree of Beaufort to mark the start of the Christmas season. The following day visitors can enjoy a Gullah Taste of Christmas where they can interact with vendors from all around the Lowcountry and taste unique dishes full of flavor. Don’t forget the Annual Christmas Boat Parade that typically starts at 5:30pm. The final day of the holiday weekend ends with a Christmas parade that is led by Santa.

Food & Beverage

The Wine to Drink

the Director of Food & Beverage

As the dog days of Summer are officially behind us, we can look forward to one of my favorite seasons: Fall. Changing colors, football, cooler breezes, comfort food, and great beverages. While you enjoy your fair share of pumpkin spice lattes and spiked apple ciders, don’t forget about some other delicious options out there to compliment the season.

I will admit I fancy a nice Reposado Tequila on a big rock with a twist of orange peel and lime, but I must tell you about an interesting red wine I was recently introduced to this year. Graffito Cabernet Franc. Female winemaker Jimena Lopez produces this elegant wine in Mendoza, Argentina. Many of you know this region for phenomenal Malbecs, but you must give this varietal a try. Named after the color of graphite, the Cabernet Franc is hand-harvested and delivers notes of cherry, blackberry, and savory pepper and herbs. It’s medium body structure will pair well with a wide range of food choices but most definitely consider it with roasted turkey when it comes time to giving thanks at the table this year! To make it easy for you to consider, we currently offer this particular wine on our Beach Club Wine List.

Lastly, in keeping with the topic of fall and wine, we naturally assume we should ditch the white wine varietals and move on to heavier reds. However that’s never the case when it comes to sipping great wine. Pour what you love and do so in the company of those that make you smile!

Hope to see you at a wine dinner soon. Cheers - Anna

Maple-Rosemary Roast Turkey

For the Brine:

• 2 12 1/2-ounce bottles pure maple syrup (about 3 cups)

• 1 c. kosher salt

• 3 tbsp. tricolor peppercorns

• 5 bay leaves

Instructions:

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 sprigs rosemary, leaves stripped off

• Peel of 3 large oranges, cut into large strips

• Peel of 4 apples (2 red, 2 green)

1. For the brine: Combine the maple syrup, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, garlic, rosemary, orange and apple peels and 12 cups water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt, then turn off the heat and cover. Let cool completely, about 1 hour, then refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 more hour.

2. For the turkey: Place the turkey in a large brining bag or large pot. Pour the brine over the turkey and add enough cold water to cover. Refrigerate for 16 to 24 hours.

3. When ready to roast, preheat the oven to 275F. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels. Place breastside up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Tuck the wings under the body, then tie the legs together with kitchen string. Cover the pan with heavy-duty foil and roast for about 10 minutes per pound (so, about 2 hours for a 12-pound turkey).

4. Remove the turkey from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 375F. Uncover the turkey and brush with some of the melted butter, getting it into all of the crevices. Insert a meat thermometer into the thigh, near the hip joint. Return to the oven, uncovered, and continue roasting, brushing with more butter every 30 minutes, until the thermometer reaches 165F to 168F, 1 to 1 1/2 more hours. About 15 minutes before the turkey is done, brush with the maple syrup.

5. Remove the turkey from the oven and tent with foil until you are ready to carve it, at least 20 minutes. Reserve the pan drippings for the gravy.

Make-ahead tip: Make the brine up to 5 days in advance. Let cool completely and refrigerate, covered, until ready to use.

From

At Home on Fripp

Coastal Fall Decor

Fall decorating at a coastal home can be quite a creative adventure. Fripp island has a lot of little treasures that can help in creating something fun for your fall table or door. If you don’t have the creative gene, the internet (and Etsy) can become your new best friend. Try searching for “fall decorating ideas for the beach”. You will be surprised at what you find!

Seaside Harvest:

South Carolina's coastal fall decor draws inspiration from the changing leaves, serene waters, and golden sunlight. Embrace the colors of the season by incorporating warm tones of orange, gold, rust, and deep reds into your decor. Consider adorning your space with autumnal wreaths, throw pillows, and blankets that mirror the captivating palette of the coastal landscape. Take a foam pumpkin and cover it with nautical fabric using mod podge, then wrap the stem in rope. Not all Jack O’Lanterns have to be orange and scary! Paint the pumpkin white, or any other beachy color, and punch out holes for the light to shine through.

Nautical Accents:

Intertwine nautical elements with classic fall decor for a truly unique look. Hang woven baskets filled with pumpkins or gourds, or create a striking centerpiece using a rustic boat or buoy as a focal point. Incorporate maritime lanterns and ropes for a touch of coastal nostalgia.

Seaside Scents:

Elevate your sensory experience by infusing your home with the scents of fall and the sea. Use candles and diffusers that feature fragrances such as salted caramel, pumpkin spice, and ocean mist to create an inviting and immersive ambiance.

Coastal fall decor encapsulates the charm of both the coastal and autumnal worlds, resulting in a captivating and inviting aesthetic that brings warmth and style to your living spaces. By integrating the colors, textures, and elements of the coastal landscape with the spirit of fall, you can create a truly enchanting atmosphere that welcomes the season with open arms. So, whether you're a lifelong coastal dweller or simply seeking a fresh take on fall decor, let Fripp Island’s coastal beauty inspire your design journey this autumn.

Island Happenings

Calendar of Events Fall 2023

-August-

23rd - Floral Workshop

26th - National Dog Day

31st - Annual Kingfish Tournament

-September-

1st-2nd - Annual Kingfish Tournament

4th - Labor Day

10th - National Grandparents’ Day

18th - CAB Meeting

22nd-24th - Fall Clay Court Championship Tournament

-October-

6th - FrippFest

9th - Columbus Day

31st-Halloween

-November-

5th - Daylight Savings Time Ends

11th - Veterans Day

20th - CAB Meeting

23rd - Thanksgiving Day

24th - Kids Fishing Tournament