NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
Why Being America’s #1 Island is Good For Business and Residents
OUR REAL ESTATE MARKET IS HOT!
#SHOPLOCALLOWCOUNTRY
5 QUESTIONS WITH STEVE RILEY
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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Inside this Issue FEATURED:
Our Real Estate Market is Hot!
8 FEATURED:
#ShopLocalLowcountry
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2
LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
FEATURED:
Email Marketing 101
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ON THE COVER CHAMBER NEWS:
Project Connect Success
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We’re the #1 Island in America ... Again!
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HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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FEATURED: America’s Favorite Island®
We are #1... again! They call it America’s No. 1 island. We call it home.
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LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
Hilton Head Island has been named the No. 1 Island in the U.S. by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler for the fourth consecutive year. Here’s what the editors had to say: “Remaining in
the top spot, Lowcountry’s loveliest island is a world away from mainland South Carolina on the other side of the bridge. This is the kind of getaway that satisfies all travelers— you could spend a weekend beach-bumming (pick your spot on 12 miles of pristine sand), shopping locally-made handicrafts, eating out at restaurants that compete with those in major cities, or sweating it out on a bike trail, paddleboard, or golf course.” Congratulations are also in order for the Savannah/ Hilton Head International Airport, which is listed as the No. 1 Domestic Airport in the U.S. The Inn & Club at Harbor Town, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and Montage Palmetto Bluff were all also named to the Top Resorts in the South. South Carolina and the Lowcountry were very well represented in the Condé Nast Traveler awards this year with Greenville and Charleston being named to
the top small cities in the country, Kiawah Island also being named among the top islands. Only California had more representation in the Readers’ Choice Awards than South Carolina. Why do these accolades matter? It continues to lift our profile as a sought-after destination and is a testament to the strength in our brand. As Condé Nast Traveler’s editor in chief Jesse Ashlock pointed out on a previous Tele-Town Hall, readers were voting in the darkest days of the pandemic this spring. The fact that they voted for us is a testament to the passion and dedication of our tourism industry, which drives our economy. It’s a tremendous honor to win once. But to be named America’s No. 1 Island four times in a row is extremely rare. This distinction as America’s Favorite Island® belongs to you - our businesses, workforce, and residents - for your incredible hospitality and your commitment to delivering excellence that keeps visitors coming back year after year. We hope you are as proud as we are to be once again recognized as the best in America.
Cheers to America’s No. 1 Island!
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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FEATURED: Shop Local
Now more than ever before, our local businesses need you. While our region fared better than others, the pandemic still affected business for our local shops. Patronizing local businesses does make a powerful impact on the local community. We’re once again partnering with American Express for #ShopSmallSaturday on November 28, but it won’t stop there. We’re rolling out a contest to help you support all our local businesses and community. Click here for your Shop Local Lowcountry sheet. Complete a row or column of activities, and be entered to win one of the weekly drawings for a local restaurant gift card.
You can hand in the sheet with your contact information to the chamber (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Hilton Head Island; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday at 216 Bluffton Road) or email it to hmartin@hiltonheadisland. org. You can also use #shoplocallowcountry on social media with a picture of you shopping to be entered to win. Follow us on social media (@hhibchamber) as we celebrate #ShopLocalLowcountry and #ShopSmallSaturday and beyond! Let’s all do our part to help our local economy!
3 Reasons to Shop Local YOUR MONEY STAYS IN THE COMMUNITY • 48 percent of each purchase gets recirculated locally • Each $100 spent generates $45 of secondary local spending • 91 percent of small business owners give back to their communities in donations, contributions and services on average of $6,600 a year
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LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
YOU SUPPORT JOBS IN THE COMMUNITY • Since 2008, small businesses created 10.6 million net new jobs, or 64 percent of the private-sector net new jobs
YOU HELP BUILD THE COMMUNITY • Our neighbors and friends own these businesses and get to know their customers. They tend to carry products that are tailored to their market • These unique shops and restaurants make us a destination, and attracting new residents and visitors is good for every business sector
Let’s support our local businesses! Complete a row or column of activities, and be entered to win one of the weekly drawings for a local restaurant gift card! Post your purchase on your social media using #ShopLocalLowcountry for more entries. Email this to hmartin@hiltonheadisland.org or drop it off at our Hilton Head Island or Bluffton offices.
Purchase something for yourself a local boutique.
Purchase a gift card for future use.
Order take-out.
Follow the chamber on social media (@hhibchamber).
Buy a cup of coffee for a co-worker or friend.
Refer a professional service to a friend or co-worker.
Share a local business social media post.
Write a positive Yelp review for a small business or restaurant.
Read a local magazine or paper.
Thank a grocery clerk.
Tip BIG (at least 25%).
Buy a necessity at a local store instead of Amazon or online.
Thank a first responder or healthcare worker.
Write a positive Google review for a small business or restaurant.
Share a positive experience on your social media page, or tell a friend.
Visit a new local business.
Follow a new local business on social media.
Purchase a gift at a local boutique.
Eat at a local restaurant.
Write a positive Facebook review for a small business or restaurant.
Pay for the following car in the drive-thru line.
Order delivery from a local restaurant.
Leave a positive Shop small online comment on a or over the business’s social phone. 7 HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 media post.
FEATURED: Real Estate Market
OUR REAL ESTATE MARKET is Hot ! Bucking the trend from the economic downturn, our local real estate market has been enjoying a boom since midspring. Our expanding virtual world, attractive outdoor environment, and the exodus from bigger cities are just some of the reasons. Jean Beck, the CEO of the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors, has the rundown.
Q: Why are people purchasing residential real estate during an economic downturn?
A: I think anyone would agree we have spent more time in our homes this year than what we are accustomed to. Those who have been sitting on fence or perhaps with a short timeline plan to retire have taken action and advantage of low interest rates. Others are reacting to changes in their day-to-day life, including working from home and homeschooling, and are looking for larger space.
September 2020 Residential Market Snapshot
Median Sales Price
Closed Sales
New Listings
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Regional Market
Bluffton (29910, 29909)
Hilton Head Island (detached homes)
Hilton Head Island (condos/villas)
$388,675
$328,900
$668,450
$326,750
712
259
186
146
to +19.6% compared Septeber 2019
+64.8%
compared to Septeber 2019
669
+40.5%
compared to Septeber 2019
LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
to +6.3% compared Septeber 2019
+32.1%
compared to Septeber 2019
273
+22.4%
compared to Septeber 2019
to +3.7% compared Septeber 2019
+132.5%
compared to Septeber 2019
139
+61.6%
compared to Septeber 2019
to +15.9% compared Septeber 2019
to +58.7% compared Septeber 2019
125
to +23.8% compared Septeber 2019
Q: Are people buying to relocate or a second home as an investment property or to be here part-time?
A: It is both. The work from home option has provided more flexibility. Many large corporations have announced that it won’t return to the office setting, giving people the option to live anywhere. Second home buyers want to have the option to extend their stay and escape from the city when they feel the need. Real estate is also part of many people’s financial portfolio. Hilton Head Island has garnered the attention as America’s Favorite Island® leading investors into recognizing the opportunity in the rental market.
Q: What makes our area a prime location?
A: Today’s buyer desires green and open space, community amenities, value, and convenience. With the area’s core value on the environment, Hilton Head Island and Bluffton’s festivals, arts and culture, along with many of the community upgrades that have been done over the last five years and continued capital improvements, the region is poised to be a desirable location for years to come.
Q: How does this influx in real estate sales benefit our economy, quality of life, and other businesses? A: Just like we welcome our visitors each year, we welcome the many new residents who are calling Hilton Head Island and Bluffton home. In a 2019 economic report commissioned by South Carolina REALTORS, the housing industry accounts for 14,270 jobs in Beaufort County and an economic impact is $2,532,356,978. When people purchase new homes, many business benefit.
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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FEATURED: Email Marketing 101
SMALL BUSINESS 101:
Increase Your Sales with Email Marketing By Rachel Creveling, Belle Strategies Did you know email marketing generates more revenue than any other digital marketing medium? When it comes to actual return on investment (ROI), eblasts will always be your highest performers. Email marketing is quite inexpensive compared to some other paid advertising options. More importantly, it offers you a highly personal way to build customer loyalty and in turn, repeat business. Goodness knows we get more email than ever these days. With that in mind, take it as a compliment every time a customer gives you access to their inbox. They’ve essentially told you, “I care about your brand and I want to know more.”
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For small business owners with countless other responsibilities, email marketing is often an afterthought (or not even on the to-do-list). It can seem daunting - coming up with topics, writing the email itself, tracking the results - the list goes on. The good news is you can actually streamline these efforts quite easily. The trick? Automation. The most effective way to use email marketing comes down to one golden rule: Provide tangible value every time you reach out. To illustrate this, let’s review how to create one of my favorite automations: the New Customer Series. Whether you’re selling a product or a service, following up with a new customer is imperative. Use a three-step automation to enhance your customer service and build loyalty. It looks like this:
1
Thank You for Your Business
2
Product Arrival or Service Update
3
4
Send Immediately
Welcome your new customer and authentically thank them for supporting your small business. Include basic but valuable info that buyers have come to expect, like delivery date and return policy (if applicable). Link to your social media platforms and kindly invite them to become part of your social family.
Send Approximately 3 Days After Arrival This email should arrive shortly after your product is delivered, or within a few days of your services being retained. How do you provide value here? Check in with your customer and offer them easy ways to reach you for help, if needed. Find out if their product arrived safely OR if they have any questions about the service you provide. This email should show how much you care about their satisfaction.
Review + Incentive
Send Approximately 4-5 Days Later Positive reviews are worth their weight in gold. That’s an article for another time, but trust me, you need to actively solicit reviews. An email that only asks for a review does not provide value to your customer. Remember, every email MUST include value. Incorporate an incentive to ensure you don’t wear out your inbox-welcome. Whether it’s a percentage off their next purchase, a chance to win a gift card, or a freebie they can redeem immediately, choose something your customer will truly find valuable and use it to further cement their fondness for your company.
Limited Time Promotion
Send Approximately 7-10 Days Later
Your new customer has now had enough time to fall in love with Have time to create a fourth Your Customer will even a repeat buyer. youremail? product orNew service and areSeries primed tobe become more likely to produce additional revenue with this... (Cont. on next page) Provide a time sensitive promotion a few weeks after their initial purchase, and be sure to highlight the LIMITED TIME aspect. This email should include some featured products / services similar to what they recently purchased. Great news! These features are automatically tailored to the individual customer’s browsing / purchase behavior. You don’t have to customize it every time. Amazing, right?
About the Author: Rachel Creveling is a digital marketing strategist with a focus on content and online advertising. Her specialty is steadily increasing sales for her clients through measurable, ROI-driven campaigns. Since founding Belle Strategies Marketing Agency in 2012, she has developed hundreds of campaigns for a variety of clientele. She can be reached at HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 11 rachel@bellestrategies.com or on social media @bellestrategies
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
ADOPT-A-POLLING PLACE On Election Day November 3, your chamber organized Adopt-A-Polling Place, where local businesses sponsored lunch and refreshments for volunteer poll workers in southern Beaufort County. Alfred’s Restaurant Andy Twisdale, Realtor Chez Georges First Citizen’s Bank Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors Island Cruisers & Carolina Rides Lowcountry Inside Track, Ltd. Moss Creek Owners Association Pearce Scott Architects ROC Dental Group South Atlantic Bank The Heritage Library Foundation, Inc. The Island Funeral Home and Crematory The Sea Pines Resort The Sulka Bogart Team at Carson Realty Vineyard Bluffton Assisted Living and Memory Care
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18 27 56 290
Sponsors Polling Locations Precincts Covered Volunteers Fed HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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WELCOME CHAMBER CHAMPIONS
2020-2021 PINNACLE
PLATINUM
NAVION SENIOR SOLUTIONS
GOLD
SILVER Beaufort Memorial Hospital
Prudential Financial Christopher Corkern
Burr & Forman
Synovus
MLS of Hilton Head Island, Inc.
TD Bank USCB
BRONZE Ace Hardware Hilton Head Assured Partners Dividend Asset Capital, LLC
DX Print & Mail
RMC Your Destination Connection
Hub International
Technical College of the Lowcountry
Riedel Computers
COPPER Andy Twisdale, Realtor Court Atkins Group
Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival
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Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors
NAI Carolina Charter
Sign D’ Sign United Community Bank Wood+Partners
Special Welcome to Our Newest Platinum Chamber Champion
Vineyard Bluffton opened its newest Valeo Senior Community at 25 Cassidy Drive in Bluffton. This brand-new personalized living community, comprised of 64 assisted living and 32 memory care residences, will be the first of its kind in the area. This unique new property not only boasts larger living spaces designed for today’s modern senior, but will contain a spa, wellness area, courtyards, several dining areas as well as industry-leading advanced smart technology throughout the building as a part of parent company Valeo Senior’s focus to
evolve the senior living experience. In addition, Vineyard offers dementia care certification and assisted living training for all employees that exceeds state standards. “Our company is centered on leaving things better and growing community. You might even say we are obsessed with our customer experience and making it the very best each of us can provide,” said Matt Perez, VP of Operations - Culinary at Valeo Senior. “At Vineyard, we honor our elders who have contributed greatly to our society, and we are committed to celebrating their lives, their way.”
Chamber Champions are the companies who go above and beyond investing in the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s programs and services. They enjoy enhanced exposure, guaranteed tickets to signature events, and other exclusive benefits. HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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CHAMBER NEWS
PROJECT CONNECT Success
Pictured, from left, Jimmy Goins, store manager at Walmart; Frank Rodriguez, superintendent of Beaufort County Schools, Susana Cook, general manager at Palmera Inn & Suites and chair of the chamber’s Business Education Partnership Committee, and Bill Miles, president & CEO of the Hilton Head IslandBluffton Chamber of Commerce.
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Learning certainly looks different this year. But one thing hasn’t changed - the need for school supplies. Every year, teachers reach into their own pockets to purchase supplies for their classrooms. And every year, we help ease that burden through our Project Connect Program. This year, we’re proud that we’ve donated 1,000 pairs of headphones from American Airlines, 18 gallons of hand sanitizer, and over $5,000 in gift cards for school supplies for Beaufort County school teachers. We want to thank the Walmart Foundation, American Airlines, Correll Insurance, HUB International, Palmera Inn & Suites, Lowcountry Master Gardeners Association, and the businesses and individuals who generously donated to the Project Connect program.
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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TECHNOLOGY AT THE CHAMBER at your Fingertips
NEED A ROOM TO ZOOM?
The Chamber’s got you covered.
Our state-of-the-art board rooms have been outfitted with the latest Zoom Room technology, and we can offer you: Latest videoconferencing technology that will let you conduct meetings from a conference room - more than a computer or tablet in your office. A professional space to conduct your meeting. Reliable internet connection. Ability to connect with clients or team members in a private, confidential and quiet space. Tech support. Custom backgrounds.
Intimate Space Available for Smaller Groups
Our Zoom Room is ideal for conducting interviews, training, depositions, board or annual meetings, and for those who need to do business while they are out of town. Contact Connie for details: 18 LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS Killmar CONNECTION
ckillmar@hiltonheadisland.org | 843.341.8372
Tired of taking video on your smartphone for your business?
The chamber now has recording studio space available for our members! The studio features: • Green screen and monitor capability for custom backgrounds and logos • Teleprompter • Professional lighting and audio
Ideal for: • • • •
Updates to your board of directors or membership Training videos Podcasts Virtual tours
Contact Connie Killmar for details: ckillmar@hiltonheadisland.org | 843.341.8372 HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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Exclusive Member Offer: Touch-Free Thermometers at a Discount
RESTORE CONFIDENCE of your employees and customers Hospital-grade Automated Temperature Detection System (not a handheld thermogun that isn’t reliable or accurate)
Prevent anyone with a fever from entering your facility. It’s your first layer of protection against COVID-19. The best business relationships are built face-to-face. Bring your customers and employees into to your business safely. Used by businesses ranging from local shops, restaurants, banks, and gyms, all the way to Fortune 500 companies.
The Al Temperature Detection System (AITDS) is the fastest and least intrusive way to protect employees, customers and visitors. • Temperature Detection takes less than 2 seconds. • Measurement Accuracy + 0.5 °F. • Demonstrate your concern for environmental health and safety. • No need to remove or shift face mask and eyeglasses. • Detect that someone is not wearing a mask and alert them to do so. • Not affected by extreme outdoor temperatures. Our algorithms detect the correct temperature.
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Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber Member Pricing PRODUCT FEATURES
V2 Lite Price Ea.
V2 Pro Price Ea.
AITDS with Display Pedestal
$2,099.00
$3,599.00
Discount to HHI COC Members
<$100.00>
<$100.00>
Total Member Price
$1,999.00
$3,499.00
$399.00
$499.00
2-Day Freight Included - FOB Destination
$0.00
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Sales Tax if Applicable
$TBD
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Original Warranty Extension (2-year extension)*
We provide unlimited, Las Vegas-based technical support for the life of the product. 14-day Return Policy. *Product includes 1-year Limited Device Replacement Warranty.
To place an order, visit: BaysideOps.com/aitemp and Enter Your Member Coupon Code
HHIBSAFEV2LITE for the v2 Lite
|
HHIBSAFEV2PRO for the v2 Pro
Bayside Contact Information for Questions or Post Purchase Technical Support: operations@baysideops.com | 800.881.2063 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org
2020
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CHAMBER NEWS
CHAMBER PARTNERS WITH U.S. TRAVEL ASSOCIATION Let’s Go There. We’re partnering with the U.S. Travel Association on a campaign to remind Americans that when they are ready to travel, we’re ready to welcome them. Why? According to new polling conducted by researcher Michelle Gielan, 97 percent of respondents say that having a trip planned makes them happier, while 82 percent reported that it makes them “moderately” or “significantly” happier. Seventy-one percent reported feeling greater levels of energy when they had a trip planned in the next six months. According to Destination International, nearly two-thirds of Americans are planning a trip this fall with a growing interest in “workcations” and “schoolcations.” We’re proud to partner with the U.S. Travel Association on this campaign as it highlights the benefit of travel planning. Our community has taken incredible steps to keep stay safe during our peak tourism months, and travelers took notice. The word was out about The Path Forward plan and The Pledge many of our businesses took, and that security helped many of our visitors make the choice to in fact come. A rising tide lifts all boats; when our tourism market is healthy, the rest of our local economy is healthy.
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Congratulations to our Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau for being named among ConventionSouth Readers Choice Award for the eighth consecutive year. There were over 3,000 nominations spanning CVBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, hotels and venues. Over 8,000 votes were cast and only 380 total winners in the U.S. with South Carolina listing just 19 of those winners. The Hilton Head Island Beach & Tennis Resort, Palmera Inn & Suites, and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island were also named to the list.
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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5 CHAMBER NEWS
Questions with Steve Riley
Hilton Head Island Town Manager Steve Riley is hanging his hat after a 29-year career at Town Hall. He’s been at the helm for nearly as long as the town has been incorporated. We asked him five questions about his storied career helping shape Hilton Head Island to what it is today.
1
Looking back on your nearly 30-year career at the Town of Hilton Head Island, what do you consider the top three projects you’re most proud of? 1. Being part of the negotiations for every parcel of property acquired as part of the Land Acquisition Program, which began in 1991. This involved some 150 separate transactions allowing the town to acquire nearly 1,300 acres that benefits the community in innumerable ways. 2. Establishing and then extending the Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District, which resulted in numerous capital improvements across a broad section of the island and culminated with two signature projects: the USCB Hospitality Management Campus and Lowcountry Celebration Park. 3. Being part of consolidating two fire districts and a volunteer ambulance squad into our Fire Rescue Department. Then, among so many improvements, replacing all seven fire stations. Our Fire Rescue crews provide an amazing service to this Island
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while being away from home 1/3 of the year. They deserve safe and comfortable accommodations and a healthy working environment. Beyond that, we built these stations to withstand storms and be available as Community Service Centers after a disaster.
2
What do you think the biggest challenge will be for Hilton Head Island over the next decade?
The biggest challenge for this decade and for decades to come is before us right now: gaining the approvals to implement the widening of the bridges and the U.S. 278 corridor from Moss Creek to the Cross Island Parkway. It needs to be six lanes. We need to address the needs of the residents along the road. They were disadvantaged when the road was widened to four lanes back in the 1980s and remain disadvantaged today. The “no build alternative” does nothing to improve their situation and imperils the rest of the Island as well as our workforce. We are an important cog in a growing region and there are no magic bullets to keep traffic volumes from increasing. Failure to widen this corridor will slowly cripple this Island.
3
What do you wish island residents understood about town government? Those who govern the Town and those who ensure that the work gets done are human beings. They care deeply. They have family and loved ones of their own. They have different life experiences, perspectives and priorities from each other and from you. They make mistakes. They will listen, but they also expect to be heard. They are deserving of respect and civility. They are duty-bound to repay that respect and civility. When there is disagreement on one issue, we must find ways to move ahead and seek consensus on the next issue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the issue after that.
4
What advice would you give your successor?
5
What are you looking forward to most with retirement?
This is a community with very high expectations. Use your talents and the talents of the exceptional staff that you now lead to exceed those expectations every day.
1. Having more time to travel with Mary Jo and spending time with our kids, grandkids and extended family. 2. Enjoying the beach we renourished and the parks and pathways we built.
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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HILTON HEAD ISLAND NEWS
TIMELINE OF Coligny Improvements The completion of the Lowcountry Celebration Park in December marks the end of the 20-year project to redevelop one of the most popular spots on Hilton Head Island: Coligny. From the gas station on the corner of Lagoon Road and Pope Avenue, to the improved beach access with benches and a splashpad, to the coming additional parking, Coligny has come a long way. Here’s a timeline of project. Photos & information courtesy of the Town of Hilton Head Island.
Improvements to Coligny Circle New Pathway along Pope Avenue
Adoption of TIF District
2000
2005
Redevelopment of gas station at Coligny (Lagoon/Pope)
2006
2008
2009
2010
2012
Redevelopment of 101 Pope Avenue (currently Sandbar Beach Eats)
Development of Maniotis property at 11 Lagoon Road (It’s Greek to Me)
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Redevelopment of Coligny Beach Park that includes new restrooms, boardwalk and splashpad
New Pathways on Lagoon and Avocet
Redevelopment of Holiday Inn to Beach House
2
Improvements to Nassau Street
Redevelopment of Heritage Plaza
Extension of Lagoon Road
2018 Redevelopment of Old Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office to SoundWaves
HAWK Signal and Pedestrian Improvements on South Forest Beach
2020 New Pathway on Tanglewood Improvements to Pope/Lagoon Intersection
Opening of Lowcountry Celebration Park
New Pathway on South Forest Beach (Coligny Circle to Tanglewood)
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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HILTON HEAD ISLAND NEWS
IN THE News Craig Melvin fondly remembers his vacations on Hilton Head Island during a segment on the Third Hour on the Today Show.
Hilton Head Island is featured as one of the places where “Vacation Home Demand Soars During Pandemic” in the Wall Street Journal.
Sherman’s Travel features Hilton Head Island as one of the “25 Islands In The U.S. For An Affordable Getaway.” What they said: “Its postcard red-and-white lighthouse is a launch point for sightseeing cruises, water sports, and, is the perfect spot for dolphin-watching.”
Hilton Head Island is featured as one of the “Best Beach Towns in the Off Season” in Departures. What they said: “Hilton Head is a majestic southern destination, with beautiful beaches, an iconic lighthouse, endless golfing on public and private courses, and American historical sites.”
Daufuskie Island featured as a place in the Daily Beast article “Here’s How To Work In Paradise.” What they said: “In January, Stephanie Trunzo’s vacation home on Daufuskie Island in South Carolina was completed. They went in March as the world started shutting down. … The family have since spent little time in their primary residence in North Carolina. They’re loving island life.”
Hilton Head Island is featured as one of the “Best U.S. Islands You Can Drive To” in Insider.com. What they said: “There are plenty of beautiful nature preserves and 12 miles of white sandy beaches, but Hilton Head might be most famous as a top golf destination”
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Daufuskie Island featured as the top day-trip in South Carolina in Reader’s Digest. What they said: “Imagine a paradise where rare Marsh Tacky horses run along the shore and loggerhead sea turtles nest in the sand. Gorgeous views surround you while Tabby ruins and other examples of Gullah history tell stories of the past.”
Beaching, biking and Sunset watching on Hilton Head Island is featured in Budget Travel’s “Socially Distant Adventures on the South Carolina Coast.”
Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort’ “Most Valuable Pup” package is featured in “30 Fall Staycations and Road Trips Hotel Deals” in NerdWallet.com
The Sonesta Hilton Head Island Resort is featured among “10 Hotels That Are Work-From-Home Friendly” in BestProducts.com. What they said: “Taking a break from the workday couldn’t be easier — enjoy a walk along the beach or visit their beautiful tropical gardens.”
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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BLUFFTON NEWS
BLUFFTON News Wright Family Park to Open This Month Located at the end of Calhoun Street, across from the Church of the Cross, the Wright Family Park will open this month. The park will feature an access point to the May River with the Calhoun Street Regional Dock, a boardwalk, open space, as well as restrooms, a warming kitchen for catering events, and parking. The town will also rehabilitate the Squire Pope Carriage House that sits on the property, similarly to how they rehabilitated the Garvin-Garvey House in the Oyster Factory Park, Built around 1850, the Squire Pope House is one of the very few structures that survived the 1863 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Burning of Blufftonâ&#x20AC;? during the Civil War.
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Welcome
POLICE STEPHENIE PRICE
“Stephenie’s combined depth of law enforcement experience and knowledge of our region is why she is the perfect choice for Bluffton,” said Town Manager Marc Orlando. “Throughout Stephenie’s career, she has built a strong reputation for responsiveness, accountability, and innovation. On behalf of Town leaders, I am enthusiastic to have her join the Town’s executive leadership team and help build upon our community’s legacy of excellence in policing.” Price said wellness programs are a high priority and are also crucial components of building healthy relationships and partnerships with the community.
Photo Courtesy of the Town of Bluffton
For the first time in town history, Bluffton has a female police chief, Stephenie Price. She was previously the assistant chief of police for Savannah.
“Officer health is a basic tenet of law enforcement,” Price said. “As a chief, it is my job to implement programs which take care of officers and staff members, personally and professionally, so they know their well-being is supported. When a culture of caring and compassion is cultivated in one’s own department, it is a natural progression to carry that culture out in the community.”
RIVER RIDGE ACADEMY
Ribbon Cutting
The first project of the Beaufort County School District’s bond referendum that past last year, the expanded classroom wings at River Ridge Academy, are complete. A total of $9.88 million in referendum funds was budgeted for the River Ridge expansion
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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BLUFFTON NEWS
Congratulations
MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF! The Lowcountry now has a Five-Star resort, the first in the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Savannah area, the second in the state of South Carolina, and one of fewer than 300 across the world. Bluffton’s own Montage Palmetto Bluff has received the coveted Forbes Five-Star Award. It’s the pinnacle of recognition for hotels and resorts and is based upon extremely stringent criteria. With the Montage Palmetto Bluff designation, Montage becomes the second all Five-Star hotel company in Forbes Travel Guide history. Click here to read the Forbes recognition. Montage Palmetto Bluff is an asset to the Lowcountry, and not just for guests staying at the resort. It has opened its doors to the community, has given back in many ways, and it employs hundreds of Lowcountry residents. We’re proud to have such an outstanding resort recognized for the experience they provide for their guests and their commitment to our environment and Lowcountry way of life. Congratulations to the entire Montage Palmetto Bluff team for their extraordinary commitment to offering their guests the ultimate Lowcountry hospitality experience.
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IN THE News Bluffton is listed as among “20 Small Towns That Leave An Impression” in Country Living. What they said: “Located on the May River, it’s full of charming shops and restaurants, and has a really strong creative vibe with plenty of music venues.”
Montage Palmetto Bluff is featured as a top resort for a sociallydistant stay in Haute Living, and Essence.com. What they said: “Thanks to its prime location within a 20,000-acre maritime forest along 32 miles of riverfront in the heart of the Lowcountry between Hilton Head, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia, outdoor activities are plentiful here.”
The signature “Pear Of The Dog” from Montage Palmetto Bluff is featured in Forbes.com’s “23 Hotel Cocktails To Make This Fall.”
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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MEMBERSHIP CORNER
MEMBERS Making News Hilton Head Regional Healthcare celebrated Supply Chain Week with their materials management staff, healthcare foodservice workers, and food and nutrition services staff in October.
Eight nonprofits serving the Hilton Head Island community received a total of $155,000 as a part of the first round of grants made possible by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head, the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center, the Hilton Head Island Deep Well Project, the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association, Neighborhood Outreach Connection, Sandalwood Community Food Pantry, Society of St. Vincent de Paul Holy Family Conference, and Volunteers in Medicine Clinic Hilton Head Island.
The Sea Pines Resort will build a 16-unit workforce housing complex for its employees on Target Road. Expected completion is in 2022.
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In its eighth round of COVID-19-related grantmaking since April, the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has awarded an additional $97,600 to 10 organizations that are addressing critical needs resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. To date, a total of $556,000 has been granted to 41 organizations in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties.
Coastal Kingdom, a TV program cosponsored by The County Channel and the Lowcountry Institute on Spring Island, was awarded its second Southeastern EMMY Award for “Best On Camera Talent/Host.”
Parker’s donated $30,000 to Beaufort County schools as part of its “Fueling the Community” program, which gives one cent of every gallon of gas sold on the first Wednesday of each month.
Collins Group Realty awarded Lovable Paws Rescue $9,000 as part of its 2020 Charity initiative, the 200th Home Sale. HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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The SERG Restaurant Group developed the SERG Star Readers program with Coastal Provisions Co. and Outside Hilton Head to reward K-12 students for reading. Students who complete the program are entered for a chance to win one of three $1,000 Future Scholar 529 scholarships. The program runs through November 20.
The Technical College of the Lowcountry recently received a $50,000 gift from Palmetto Electric Trust to establish the Palmetto Electric Cooperative Lobby at the Culinary Institute of the South, which is currently under construction at the Buckwalter Place Commerce Park.
Hilton Head Regional Healthcare has welcomed Riverside Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Care to Hilton Head Hospital.
The Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park received a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. The grant will support the project: Connecting the Dots: Preserving the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park Site Through Archaeology. 36 LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
WHO'S WHO Who’’s Where
Andrea Albright, of Collins Group Realty, has earned the pricing strategy advisor (PSA) designation from the National Association of Realtors.
Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head welcomes Matthew Brown as the new director of housekeeping. He has 30+ years of hospitality experience.
Ben Campsey has joins The Greenery, Inc. as the chief financial officer. He brings over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting.
Megan DeWeese, a first-grade teacher at Okatie Elementary School who recently earned her doctorate degree, was named the Beaufort County’s 2020-2021 District Teacher of the Year.
James Dismond has joined Hospice Care of the Lowcountry as its new director of development. He attended Berea College and Marshall University.
Hilton Head Regional Physician Network welcomes Dr. Brooke Gaspari to Riverside Women’s Care. She completed her residency at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, Penn.
The Greenery, Inc. promoted Stuart Grant to branch manager for its Palmetto Bluff operations. He’s been with the company since 2003.
Dr. Deana Harmon joins Hilton Head Regional Physician Network at Riverside Women’s Care. She practiced for 13 years in Tennessee before moving to Bluffton
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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Ben Hart has been named the president and general manager of WJCL-TV, Hearst Televisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ABC affiliate. He was previously the news director at WISN-TV in Milwaukee.
David Hoffman, the director of loss prevention at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, was honored with the Omni Lifesaver Award for saving the life of a baby earlier this year.
Ashley Ingraham joins the Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island as the Assistant general manager.
Jack Menzie joins Charter One Realty as a real estate agent. He has over 22 years of sales, marketing, and real estate experience.
Beaufort County Library Director Ray McBride retired in October after serving as the director for the past five years. He led efforts to upgrade library facilities, expand collections, and more.
Dr. R. Scott King joins Hilton Head Regional Physician Network at the New River Urology. He completed his residency at the Charleston Area Medical Center in Charleston, W.V. The Island Recreation Association welcomes Christina Menjares as the new director of the Hilton Head Island Senior Center. She was previously the activities coordinator at Brookdale Hilton Head. 38 LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
Mortgage Network, Inc. welcomes Alan Perry to its Bluffton office. He was previously producing sales manager and mortgage loan officer with SunTrust Bank (now Truist)
Ken Thomas joins The Greenery, Inc. as the vice president of operations. Over his 30 year career, he has owned and operated three successful landscape companies.
Second Helpings announced its Volunteers of the Year: Bluffton Volunteer of the Year: Larry Schmidt Hilton Head Volunteer of the Year: Jim Levesque Fill the Need Volunteer of the Year: Marie Clark Support Volunteer of the Year: Eileen Williams
Collins Group Realty recently announced the promotion of three staff members across their two locations: Annette Rothwell, director of operations Julie Smythe, success manager Taylor Brunn, office manager & closings coordinator Carol Weir joins the University of South Carolina Beaufort as interim senior director of communications. She was previously the chief content officer at Hilton Head Monthly and special sections editor at The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette.
Scott F. Wierman has been named president and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. He was previously the president of The WinstonSalem Foundation in North Carolina.
Weichert, RealtorsÂŽ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Coastal Properties announces new raptors to its team: Michelle Alaimo, Ronda Durham, Jennifer Freeman, David and Amanda Rutherford, Joan Scully and Jessica Shefsick HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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Welcome NEW MEMBERS
The Hilton Head Life + The Beaufort Life, Charter One Lululemon
Restore Hyper Wellness + Therapy Palmetto Axes Bad Biscuit
World Affairs Council of Hilton Head
Fishcamp on Broad Creek
Fast Tracker’s- Hilton Head Toastmaster’s Club SH’ THAT’S HOT!
Beach House Boutique Vacation Rentals and Realty Casablanca Mediterranean Grill
HPA Consulting Purifly Disinfection Services Ernst W. Bruderer Enclave at Bluffton Park Apartment Homes Jim Vaughn
Island Nutrition
Luxury Limousine Transportation LLC
ANNIVERSARIES 30+ YEARS
Bess’ Delicatessen & Catering Carolina Contractors, Inc. Forsythe Jewelers Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association Hilton Head Exterminators, Inc. Hilton Head Health Hilton Head Island Recreation Association Hilton Head Regional Healthcare Hilton Head Hospital J. Banks Design Group, Inc. McNair Building Construction, Inc. Optical Solutions, Inc. Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Tanger Outlets Hilton Head Tom Peeples Builder, Inc. Truffles Market & Cafe
Life Care Center of Hilton Head Moss Creek Owners Association Native Island Business & Community Affairs Association Nexsen Pruet Publix #0700 Sign D’Sign Southern Wine & Spirits The Children’s Center, Inc. Truist (formerly Suntrust/BB&T) Vaughan Kennels Inc./ DBA Evergreen Pet Lodge Volvo Cars Hilton Head c/o Volvo Cars Savannah
10-19 YEARS
American Heart Association American Stroke Association Beaufort County Parks and Recreation 20-29 YEARS Beaufort Memorial Bluffton Medical Services A Fresh Start Cleaning Co. Big Bamboo AAA Vacations Bluffton Public Library Beach Properties of Hilton Head, Inc. Bluffton Today Benny Hudson Seafood Bluffton Township Fire District Bill’s Liquors & Fine Wines Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton Bluffton Okatie Outpatient Surgery Center Budget Blinds of the Lowcountry D’Brook & Company Children’s Relief Fund Discover Specific Chiropractic Coastal States Bank Distinctive Granite & Marble CPC Yellow Pages Dolphin & Nature Cruise Del Webb Communities Express Restaurant Delivery Digital Insurance, Inc. FACES DaySpa Digital Insurance, Inc. Fraser Construction Company, LLC Dolphin Seafari HHI Gray’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Appliance Farmers Market of Bluffton (open seasonally) Hilton Head Moving & Storage First Citizens Bank Hilton Head Regional Habitat for Humanity, Inc. First Citizens Bank (Bluffton) Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra First Presbyterian Church J.W. Hunt & Company, LLP H.E. McCracken Middle School K. Hovnanian Homes of SC BUSINESS & GA, Inc.CONNECTION 40 LOWCOUNTRY Haig Point Club & Community (Daufuskie Island) Kenneth Kowalyk, D.M.D.
Harvey & Battey, P.A. Heavenly Spa by Westin High Tide Restoration & Cleaning, Inc. Hilton Head 360.com Hilton Head Island Community Church Hilton Head Public Library Hilton Head Resort Four Seasons Centre Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival Honorable Weddings IL Carpaccio IMC Resort Services, Inc. Island Family Dental Island Financial Jasper County Jim N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q Johnson & Davis, PA Larkin Group, LLC Lowcountry Autism Foundation, Inc. M.A.J. Enterprises, Inc. Montage Palmetto Bluff NAMI Lowcountry Omega Graphics & Print Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe Paula Harper Bethea Pirates of Hilton Head Programs for Exceptional People (PEP) Progressive Technology Inc Queen Chapel AME Church Red Cedar Elementary Red Roof Inn & Suites Hilton Head Island Regions Bank, Pope Avenue Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Coastal Empire Royal Restrooms Show Services, Inc. Signature Flight Support Hilton Head Island Six Oaks Perpetual Care Cemetery Social Scene Entertainment South Atlantic Bank (Bluffton) St. Joseph’s/Candler Center for
Hyperbarics & Wound Care Street Meet The American Tavern Triad Design Group, LLC Truist (formerly Suntrust/BB&T) Truitt Rabun Associates Tucker MarCom Up the Creek Pub & Grill VIP Cosmetic Surgery Walmart Supercenter Hardeeville (Store #2832) Wells Fargo Windmill Harbour Real Estate WJCL-ABC Zonta Club of Hilton Head Island
4-9 YEARS
3M Coastal Applied Systems Absolute Island Management Aiden Lane Arum Spa Aspirian Executive Coaching Backwater Bill’s Grill BFG Communications Bluffton Police Department Brighton Builders, LLC Buckwalter Dental Care Carolina Crab Company Charbar Co. Charles Sampson Charter One Realty Chartwells@USCB Cintas Corp Coastal Home Indoor & Outdoor Furnishings Collins Pest Control Comedy Magic Cabaret Correll Insurance Courtney Bend Apartments Crescent Property Owners Assn Culligan Water CycleBar Daufuskie Rental Group Equitable Property & Account Management FACES Lash Studio Farmer’s Air Gigi’s Boutique GW Services, Inc. Harbor Cove Memory Care Hilton Head Baseball Association Hilton Head BMW Hilton Head Distillery Hilton Head Insurance & Brokerage Hilton Head Island Seafood Fest Hilton Head Lexus Hilton Head Long Term Rentals, Inc.
Hilton Head St. Patrick’s Day Parade Tom Upshaw Holy Tequila Ultimate Floor Care Service Horizon Home Inspectors Whole Foods Market IDEA Studio WTOC 11-TV - Bluffton Island Imaging JCB Roofing 1-3 YEARS John Vann Atomic VR Arcade Jolley Law Group, LLC Branches Jones Brothers Tree Surgeons CoffeyKubec, LLP Kelly Caron Designs, ASID Cottage Insights Kilwins at Shelter Cove Towne Centre Daufuskie Island Trail Rides Kinghorn Insurance Agency, LLC Dream Boutique Lavon Stevens FAR-CMR Holdings LLC Leaders4Life Hampton Hall Club Legendary Golf HHB Marketing Agency Local Pie Hilton Head Area Council of Estate & Financial Advisors Loni Lueke Realtor at The Virtual Realty Group in SC & GA Hilton Head Boat Charters, LLC Low Tide Plumbing Hilton Head Oral Surger & Maxillofacial Surgery Main Street Youth Theatre Hilton Head Oral Surgery May River Excursions & Maxillofacial Surgery-Bluffton May River High School Infiniti of Hilton Head Mia’s Harbour Gifts & Boutique Island Car Wash - Bluffton Mikkelson Law Firm Island Car Wash - Hilton Head Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage LOCAL Life Magazine Newton Window Cleaning Low Country Oyster Trail Fund Nick’s Steak & Seafood Maid For You Noble Jones Tours Marley’s Shrimp & Burger “Shack” Nourish Motiva Marketing Palmetto Breeze Old Town Bluffton Inn Palmetto Heating & Air of the Orangetheory Fitness Hilton Head Lowcountry Inc. Palmetto Cabinet Studio Pink Magazine/Spa Guide of the Lowcountry Porter & Pig Pinnacle Plastic Surgery Premier Properties by Haig Point Pirates HHI Principal Financial Group Poseidon Pure Salt Studios, Inc. Promozation, LLC Ray E. Warco Red Piano Art Gallery Revive PEMF River Ridge Academy RobMark Web.Advertising.PR Rose Hill Plantation Property Owners’ Rose Hearing Group, LLC DBA Rose Association, Inc. Hearing Healthcare Centers Rowe Spine & Pain Care Savannah Magazine/Southern Coastal Weddings Scientific Turf, Inc. Shingle Rejuvenator Sea Monkeys Watersports Silver Station Shell Ring Oyster Company Spartina 449 - Shelter Cove Towne Centre Shelter Cove Company Staples #0878 South Carolina Youth Leadership Conference Stretch Zone South East Coastal Underwriters Summit Landscape Group St. Joseph’s/Candler Immediate Care Telfair Museums Bluffton Tidewatch Emergency Department Superior Heating & Air Vaden Nissan of Hilton Head Sure Network Solutions Walmart Supercenter Bluffton Terry Lee Contracting WaterWalk at Shelter Cove The Corner Perk Cafe 41 HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org Weichert | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020Properties Realtors ® - Coastal TLT Insurance Bluffton Office
Thank you
MEMBERSHIP CORNER
SCENE & Be Seen
Your chamber celebrated our #1 Island award and The Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa 35th anniversary at our first Conversation + Cocktails since February.
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HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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MEMBERSHIP CORNER
Congratulations to Restore Hilton Head on its first anniversary!
Congratulations to Roy’s Place, which celebrated its reopening with a ribbon cutting.
Your chamber participated in Hilton Head Regional Healthcare’s #WomensWednesday initiative, and wore pink every Wednesday in October to raise awareness for breast cancer. 44 LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS CONNECTION
COMING UP
at Your Chamber
Tele-Town Hall
9:15 a.m. Every Wednesday Tune in for the power-hour of the week with live insights from top minds on the local, state, and national level. Check your Monday Briefing for each week’s lineup. Sign up HERE.
Fall Business Golf Classic 12 noon Tee Time Monday, November 16 Oldfield Club
Business gets done on the golf course, and there’s no better place to get together with the region’s leading executives than the chamber’s Business Golf Classic. Join us for a fun, sociallydistances shamble tournament. CLICK HERE to register.
HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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@HHIBCHAMBER HILTONHEADBLUFFTONCHAMBER.ORG 1 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DRIVE | HILTON HEAD ISLAND | 843.785.3673 216 BLUFFTON ROAD | BLUFFTON | 843.757.3673
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