VOLUME 12, ISSUE 3 • MARCH 1, 2023

Drums are a hook to get youth interested in finding purpose

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

On a chilly Saturday morning in February, seven young people, accompanied by their teacher, all bundled up in hoodies with matching T-shirts on top, lined up with their drums to play for a gathering crowd at Historic Mitchelville Park on Hilton Head Island.

The event, in honor of Black History Month, was Freedom Celebration Day, which recognized Beaufort’s Robert Smalls and his place in American history.

The young folks were part of the opening entertainment for the day. But these children are more than drummers in a line.

They are part of a nonprofit organization called COIN – an acronym for Changing Our Image Now.

The organization was founded by L.J. Bush, son of longtime Bluffton leaders Leon and Laura A. Bush, to mentor young people and encourage them to find their purpose in life, and to help their parents find ways to assist their children on that journey. The group serves young people from Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

“We are trying to put these kids in front of different opportunities,” Bush said. “Drumline is the hook to get them

interested. Then we expose them to other opportunities.”

The drumline is led by Keith Cross, teacher and mentor, a transplant from Ohio just four years ago.

Bush and Cross met playing basketball.

“He asked me, ‘In a perfect world, what would you want to do?’ And I said, ‘Have a music school and a drumline.’”

Bush replied, “I have some kids.”

The drumline got its start with 5-gallon buckets upside down on a picnic table, said Keith Cross, the music director. Then they moved to drum pads, which had more resonance.

Then, the group was invited to play for a Crescendo event last October, and they really needed to come up with drums, Cross said. He and Bush found a woman in Florida who had drums to share. “This lady in Fort Lauderdale said her school had closed because of Covid, and she had no use for the drums,” Bush said. “She had exactly what we needed.”

Bush drove to Florida and picked them up.

The group practices most Sundays at Bluffton Community Center.

But playing drums is just part of the equation for the students. They are involved in other programs offered by COIN and learning from other experiences.

“We took them to the African American Civil Rights Museum in Atlanta,” Bush said. “The parents have been very supportive, and they go on trips with us.”

One of those parents, Connie White-

head, has high praise for Bush and for COIN. She has three sons, 9-year-old twins Camden and Kendall and 14-year-

Members of the COIN drumline and their teacher perform Feb. 4 at Mitchelville as attendees arrive for a Freedom Celebration Day event.

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Revel in the joys of spring: Renewal, rebirth, rejuvenation

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

“As spring approaches, it’s a time of renewal and growth, a time to shed the old and embrace the new. The world comes alive again after a long, cold winter, with trees and flowers budding, birds chirping, and the sun shining brighter and longer each day.

“Spring is a season that inspires us to take action and try new things. It’s a time to clean out the clutter in our lives, both physical and emotional, and make room for new experiences.

“With spring comes a sense of renewal and rejuvenation, and the energy to tackle new challenges. It’s a time to get outside and be active, to take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather.

“Spring is also a time of growth and learning. Just as the flowers and trees are starting to bloom, we can also take steps to grow and

develop ourselves. Whether it’s learning a new skill, taking a class, or pursuing a new hobby, there’s always room for growth and improvement.”

You might wonder why I set off the above paragraphs with quotation marks. It sounds like something I would write, doesn’t it?

Quotation marks typically indicate someone else wrote it – and that is true in this case. But it wasn’t a “someone.”

It was crafted by an AI chatbot.

Recently, I engaged for about an hour one evening with ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence language model created and trained by Open AI, a research lab in San Francisco.

The company launched in 2015, and in 2020 began training GPT-3 in a number of (human) languages, using datasets and information from across the internet.

In December 2022, the company launched a free preview of the current product, which responds to prompts in what they call “natu-

ral language,” meaning natural to humans. In addition to the information that trained the chatbot, the program “learns” from human interaction.

This “disruptive” new technology has taken off like wildfire. One metric being used is the time it takes a new “thing” to reach 100 million users. For the standard telephone, it took 75 years, while the mobile phone took just 16 years to reach that mark. It took Netflix 10 years; Twitter, 6 years; Facebook, 2 years; Instagram, 30 months; Tiktok, 9 months. Chat GPT took just 2 months to reach the milestone.

I’m a little late to this AI party, but I couldn’t resist after I heard someone describing how smart the bot seemed, and how quickly it responded to prompts or questions.

I was leery at first. I asked a few benign questions, starting with “Do you have a name?” (“I am ChatGPT,” it replied.)

I asked for “10 bullet points to help the general public understand AI.” It responded in less than a minute, with the 10 points numbered and in complete sentences. (No. 5. “AI is not infallible and can make mistakes, especially when the data it is based on is biased or incomplete.”)

And THEN! I pasted into my chat window the text of one of my columns from last year, along with a prompt: “Learn the style of the following article and use this writer’s style to write a 500-word article about spring.”

And that, dear readers, is what you see above, edited only for space. It took the bot 2 minutes to “write” 450 words.

Now, don’t worry! I won’t be using my new friend to write all my columns from now on, but what a fun way to be entertained and help it learn for an hour or seven.

Try it and see for yourself. After all, as Chatman wrote above, spring is a time “to take action and try new things.”

Current Circulation Via USPS is 25,266

PUBLISHER

Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com

EDITOR

Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim Perry Bowen

OFFICE MANAGER

Melissa McCullough

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Bradley

Chip Collins

Collins Doughtie

E. Ronald Finger

Jordan Haire

Jean Harris

Passions stirred as controversial bill succeeds in House

By Jeff Bradley CONTRIBUTOR

February was filled with several issues on the floor of the General Assembly that stirred the passions of our two opposing political parties.

I understand that the bill is not going to make everyone happy, but I do believe it will provide for the teaching of a broad scope of historical studies that includes both inspiring and disgraceful events which have occurred in mankind’s past both across the globe and here in our nation.

Jennifer Herrin

Barry Kaufman

Lindsay Perry Gwyneth J. Saunders

Larry Stoller

Tim Wood

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CONTACT

For information about The Hilton Head Sun, contact: Kevin Aylmer PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax)

Physical address: 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910

All contents copyright protected 20220. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Hilton Head Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Member, Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

I was at the heart of one of these controversial debates as I headed the floor fight to pass the Transparency and Integrity in Education Act.

As chairman of the K-12 subcommittee of the S.C. House Standing Committee on Education and Public Works, it was my task to get the bill (H.3728) passed. It took six long hours of debate, but our Republican position succeeded with only a few added amendments in an 83-34 vote.

The prevailing Republican position behind the bill is that tax-paying parents in South Carolina should expect that their children are educated in a setting that is free from ideological indoctrination from liberal leaning teachings like Critical Race Theory.

I am confident that my colleagues in the Senate, along with Gov. Henry McMaster, are all committed to making sure our students receive a high-quality education that is not clouded by bias, and that all parents are assured the utmost input and transparency.

Although the bill reflects a conventional Republican position, part of the approved legislation is an amendment from the Democrats that “the fact-based and historically accurate discussion of the history of slavery” is included.

The bill declares teaching discrimination against anyone because of their race, sex, ethnicity, religion or national origin is objectionable, and further prohibits teaching that any race, gender or ethnicity is inherently superior to another.

Additionally, the bill allows parents the opportunity to have a stronger

Letter to the Editor

voice in their student’s curriculum with proper procedures for filing complaints if they deem such objections necessary.

Included is an extensive outline of a complaint process if a parent. student or employee of the school believes their school has a violation. Only current students, parents and employees of the school in question are permitted to file a complaint.

Another bill that has moved forward is expected to make South Carolina a safer place. This would be done by stopping the revolving door in our prisons for repeat criminals.

This bill (H.3532) passed out of the Criminal Laws Subcommittee and then quickly through the Judiciary Committee. The bill creates an additional criminal offense and penalty for committing an additional violent crime while the previous offender is out on bond. It would result in an automatic revocation of the offender’s bond for the first violent crime and an additional mandatory minimum prison sentence of five years.

Circulation verification for each issue provided with USPS Form 3541 and/or USPS Form 8125. These forms are available for review during normal business hours at the offices of The Bluffton Sun, 14D Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910.

To the Editor:

It has been said, a good attitude is a virtue.

Just what is attitude? Webster’s definition states, “attitude is a manner of acting, thinking or feeling that shows one’s disposition, opinion or mental set.”

Taking it a step further then, a good attitude means having a positive way of thinking and perception of situations. Further, a positive attitude means being optimistic about issues, about interactions with others and about yourself, while remaining hopeful, seeing the best even in difficult times and general-

ly having an encouraging affect among those around you.

It can be said, good results come when working in a positive environment.

“You can often change your circumstances by changing your attitude.” –

Eleanor Roosevelt

“Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

That said, a positive attitude is a desirable personality trait in life. Surprisingly, here are a few not so obvious suggestions for all of us that can contribute to

this positive trait: avoid gossip, be more friendly and humorous, take real breaks from serious situations, focus on longterm vs. short-term solutions, listen to relaxing music, and – my particular suggestion – love one another.

Lowcountry neighbors, if needed, if desired, in a minute, you can change your attitude and in that minute you can change your entire day (and life) as well as that of others, for the better. It’s your call.

Earle Everett Moss Creek

Jeff Bradley is the representative for District 123 in the State House of Representatives.

Jeff Bradley

Let’s celebrate you with a feast; what’s on the table?

With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events –

and just plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks

who are willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.

At a birthday celebration, we

asked: “An epic feast is being held in your honor. What’s on the table?”

Shirley Cope, Columbia: “A big pile of fruits and vegetables.”

Brian Cook, West Columbia: “Lots of seafood – lobster, crab, shrimp.”

Kinsey Gause, Columbia: “A whole pig, with green beans, mashed potatoes, brisket, pulled pork, and peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream for dessert.”

Kim Thompson, Jefferson, Georgia: “Cabbage cooked in any way, shape or form. Or either pork. Or both!”

Pat Allison, Columbia: “Meatloaf, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, squash casserole, Aunt Emily’s biscuits and carrot cake.”

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Supreme Court tells veterans they need to ‘know the rules’

By Chris Ophardt CONTRIBUTOR

The United States Supreme Court ruled in late January that service members must file Veterans Affairs claims within one year of separation, or they will not be eligible for retroactive payouts, per federal statute, 38 U.S.C. § 5110(b)(1).

The Jan. 23 ruling in Arellano v. McDonough put even more importance on veterans knowing the disability claim process or seeking help in filing their claim.

“The statute sets out detailed instructions that explain when various types of benefits qualify for an effective date earlier than the default,” wrote Justice Amy Coney Barrett. “Congress did not throw the door wide open in these circumstances or any other.”

A quick summary of the case: Adolfo Arellano was discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1981 and suffered from a severe mental health condition connected to his service. Thirty years after his discharge, Arellano applied for Veteran Affairs benefits.

Effective on the date the agency received his claim, the Department of Veterans Affairs granted him benefits, however denied retroactive benefits dating back to when he was discharged from the military.

going to the DMV seven times and how frustrating and cumbersome the process would become.

Here are a few tips to get ready for your claim:

• For five minutes, forget your military training, and don’t be a tough guy/ gal. Everything adds up, so list as many ailments, aches and pains as possible.

• VA Math – Service members’ affectionate name for the Combined Ratings Table to calculate your combined VA disability rating. The VA assigns percentages to each medical condition, but 100% is not the magical number. It’s closer to 210%. Don’t question how!

• Collect all medical records and evidence (such as doctor and hospital reports); this includes both military and civilian (if any) documentation.

• You should also attach any copies of your DD214 or separation documents.

• Gather all dependency records (marriage and children’s birth certificates). You can get extra compensation for your family, and your spouse can continue to get benefits after you pass away.

The military always taught you to have a battle buddy, shipmate, etc. Do not go at this alone! Here are a few advocacy groups to help you file your claim with the VA:

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With the Supreme Court upholding the one-year requirement, veterans being discharged must understand and file a claim before the end of the one-year grace period. Veterans who have not applied can’t wait! The sooner you file, the quicker you will begin to get compensated.

The VA disability process is confusing and bureaucratic. It is in the veterans’ and their families’ best interest to seek assistance. You must gather as much information as possible and submit a complete packet the first time. Imagine

• Beaufort County Office of Veterans Affairs’ mission is “to assist the Beaufort County veteran population and their dependents in obtaining their fullest Department of Veterans Affairs and state of South Carolina benefits.” They can be reached at 843-255-6880.

• Many national organizations can also help, including the Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Legion.

Chris Ophardt is a retired Army Lt. Col. living in Okatie. He served 20 years with three combat tours to Iraq.

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Century 21 Office Location

Our Century 21 office has been serving the Hilton Head Area for 34 years. Our location at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort has 1000’s of visitors each week, many of whom see our listings and ask us about buying on Hilton Head Island.

Our Century 21 office has been serving the Hilton Head Area for 35 years. Our location at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort has 1000’s of visitors each week, many of whom see our listings and ask us about buying on Hilton Head Island.

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Our national & world wide brokerage franchise provides our local office with an ongoing Robust Referral of potential home buyers who want to live here or invest in the Hilton Head Island area.

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40 FOLLY FIELD

40 FOLLY FIELD

40 FOLLY FIELD

DRUMS from page 1A

old Dominic, who play in the drumline.

“I just want to acknowledge how much work L.J. and Keith are doing,” she said. “The time they spend – it’s just their passion.”

Whitehead said beyond the fun, the meetings for parents are extremely helpful.

“We have gotten information about scholarships and how to get ready for college,” she said. “It has lifted a burden for us, about how to get three boys through college. It has been eye-opening.”

Bush said that getting information to parents is a big part of what COIN does.

“We try to get families the information they need to help them be successful,” he said.

The organization offers personal development and coaching programs, seeking to help young people elevate themselves. The philosophy, as posted on the COIN website, states: “We believe an essential component of COIN is cognitive restructuring. It is used to counter negative perceptions based on a history disconnection from the constantly changing

A BRAND NEW

Lowcountry.”

The goal is to “Break the generation of social and economic poverty cycle by

AirportExperience

ONLY ONE STEP AWAY

finding sustained career opportunities for 100% of COIN students each year.”

Alandria Kennedy, 17, a senior at Hilton

Head Island High School, said being part of the drumline and COIN has been beneficial to her in various ways, including helping her build confidence.

“I wrote a song and performed it for the first time at the Black Lives Matter program at school,” she said.

Cross said his long-range goal is to someday have a fine arts school that offers summer clinics and a camp.

“It will be a place where kids can come and learn and have fun with their friends,” he said. “They can be part of a community that is doing positive things.

In line with that dream is to grow the drumline.

“We hope to grow to so many that we have to go buy more drums,” Bush said. “Our target is 25 If we get to where we need more instruments, that would b a good problem to have.”

Drumline is open to anyone between about age 5 to 18, he said, and free to join.

For more information, visit changingourimagenow.org.

L.J. Bush, center, helps his students set up their drums before a drumline performance Feb. 4 at Mitchelville for a Freedom Celebration Day event.

Reading garden built in memory of club supporter

REMINDER NOTICE TOWN OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND

2023 BUSINESS LICENSE DEADLINE IS APRIL 30

The Town of Hilton Head Island hereby gives notice of the deadline for business license renewals. In accordance with Title 10, Chapter 1 Section 10-1-40, of the Town’s Municipal Code, the deadline for renewing business licenses for 2023 is April 30. If your license is not renewed by April 30, you will begin accruing a 5% penalty on the unpaid amount for each month or a portion thereof after the due da te until paid, beginning May 2. Additionally, delinquent businesses are subject to a $1,087.50 municipal summons. Business license renewal forms were mailed in January. Any business that did not receive a renewal application should contact Revenue Services at Town Hall at 843-341-4677

RENEW ONLINE

Most business owners with a valid 2022 business license and no change to their name or address are eligible to renew their business license online To access this service, go to the Town’s website at www.hiltonheadislandsc.gov and select the Permits & Licenses link; select the Business License link; select Business License Renewal link; select Renew Your Business License Enter your business license number and your PIN code (found on your renewal form) and follow the step-by-step instructions to make your pay ment. Exceptions to the online renewal process are business licenses requiring special processing such as but not limited to mobile food operators, distributors of pool tables or amusement machines and taxi accounts

NEW BUSINESSES/OWNERS

All new businesses or new owners are required to have a business license prior to operating within the Town of Hilton Head Island municipal boundaries As a reminder, a person that owns and rents residential or commercial property is required to have a business license. Businesses operating without a current business license may be subject to municipal summons, penalties and collection costs in addition to the business license tax For further information, call R i

A new reading garden at the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island has been designed and built, with the generous support of The Greenery Inc., in memory of the late Linda Babel.

Babel was an ardent supporter of the club, and when she passed away suddenly in 2022, many of her friends and family made donations to the club in her name.

Babel and her husband Frank moved to Hilton Head Island in 2005 and have generously supported the club’s mission to serve those in need for the past17 years. Linda was also active in supporting other local community organizations including the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and the 100 Women Who Care Club, not to mention her participation in countless local fundraisers.

Frank Babel continues to support the club in many ways, including being a Pedal-fora-Kid challenge rider in the organization’s annual Pedal Hilton Head Island fundraiser.

“We wanted to use a portion of the money donated in Linda’s name to recognize her in a meaningful way,” said Kim Likins, executive director of the club. “Linda was an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for learning, and we felt a special outdoor space for our members to read would be a fitting tribute to her legacy and the club’s reading enrichment

program.”

The club reached out to James Van Dijk, regional manager for The Greenery, whose children attend the club, to ask for some guidance on planning for the garden.

“And before you know it, Tim Drake and The Greenery team were on it!” said Likins. Wasting no time, they provided a design and offered to donate the cost of the majority of the material and labor.

“The Greenery was more than happy to partner with the club,” said Van Dijk. “Giving back to the community is part of our mission, and the club does so much for the kids in the community, including my own, that it was impossible to say no.”

The Reading Garden features colorful plants and shrubs, an irrigation system and a dedicated reading bench. Members of the club also helped with the planting.

This isn’t the first time a bench has been named after the Babels. Back in 2001, Babel’s Bench, as it is known, was built on the beach in Sea Pines.

Frank Babel was touched to see the new outdoor space at the Club.

“Linda would’ve been quite pleased,” he said. “Knowing the kids at the club have such a beautiful place to sit outside and read, in her name, is a perfect way to honor Linda.”

Tim Drake from The Greenery helped Boys & Girls Club members plant flowers and shrubs in the reading garden at the club.

COURTESY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Pinckney Island offers birding tours for mobility challenged individuals

“Birdability” birdwatching tours at Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge will be offered free of charge for mobility challenged individuals from 8:30 to 10 a.m. each Tuesday March 21 through May 16.

This partnership between the Friends of the Savannah Coastal Wildlife Refuges and Hilton Head Audubon offers an opportunity to ride a 15-seat electric shuttle with a bird guide to look for both migrating birds and nesting egrets and herons present during the spring on Pinckney Island. Passengers do not have to leave the shuttle during the tour. The golf cart was purchased to expand accessibility at Pinckney, thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.

“Birdability” focuses on removing barriers to access for birders with mobility challenges and disabilities or other health concerns.

The diverse habitats at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge attract an abundance of wildlife throughout the year, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The refuge bird list contains over 250 species. During spring migrations, warblers and other migratory song birds are common among the live oaks and in the shrub/scrub habitat. A variety of raptors, shorebirds, and wading birds call the refuge home year-round. Pinckney Island NWR is one of the best places in South Carolina to see breeding yellow-crowned night herons.

In addition, Hilton Head Audubon publishes a list of accessible birding locations on and around Hilton Head at hiltonheadaudubon.org/birdability. For the tours, guests may bring their own binoculars or use those provided. You must register to participate, at coastalrefuges.org/pinckney-tours.

T he Per fec t Va len tine :

T he Pe r fe c t Va l en ti ne :

A WHISPER CREEK SPA

A WHISPER CREEK SPA

GIFT CARD

GIFT CARD

IrishFest weekend to celebrate music, history and community

Plan the Perfect Spa Party or Private Event

~ Bridal Showers & Parties ~

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~ Employee or Client Appreciation ~

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Som eth ing spec ia l for the person you love !

~ Entertain Out of Town Guests ~

S om et h in g spec i a l for t he person you l ove !

Give th e g if t of re laxa tion for Va len tin e ’s D ay.

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Gi ve t h e g i f t of re l axa ti on for Va l en ti n e ’s D ay.

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

Often considered the harbinger of spring in the Lowcountry, the 38th Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 3 p.m. March 12 on Pope Ave., marking its 38th year of fun and festivities.

a

L u x u r y D ay Sp a

Groups & Events

The W hisp er Creek Spa D iff erenc e

Our Difference

The parade is the highlight of the newly established IrishFest weekend, which begins the previous evening with a concert of Irish music.

are likely to know him more for his Adidas sneakers than for his remarkable career.

Stan Smith, ranked among the legends of tennis, received his official sash in a ceremony Feb. 15 at Reilley’s Grill & Bar on the island’s south end, long known as parade headquarters.

As Grand Marshal, Smith will ride near the front of the parade. Following behind him will be past Grand Marshals and other dignitaries, including elected officials from the town and state.

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• 4 relaxation lounges

• Indulgent Body Treatments

• Private event space

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• Retail boutique with wine & gifts

• Complimentar y wine or champagne

• Complimentary wine or champagne

• Complimentar y wine or champagne

On March 11, at 4 p.m. the second annual Irish Concert will be held at Lowcountry Celebration Park, featuring The Fenian Sons and Boston Police Gaelic Column Pipe & Drum.

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1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton | 843.960.0100

This event is free and open to the public. Food trucks will be onsite, and beverages will be available for sale. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to sit and enjoy the music.

Smith is from Pasadena, California, and moved to the island in 1971 to serve as the touring tennis professional for Charles Fraser’s Sea Pines Company. He has won the U.S. Open, Wimbledon, and the Davis Cup, among his career 37 singles championships and 53 in doubles. He has been a No. 1 tennis player in the U.S., and No. 1 in the world, and was named to the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987.

(Between Burnt Church and Malphrus Rds.)

1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton | 843.960.0100

The parade is expected to draw upwards of 30,000 spectators and participants of all ages from around the region.

(Between Burnt Church and Malphrus Rds.)

wh i sp erc ree kspa. c o m

wh i sp erc ree kspa. c o m

This year’s Grand Marshal is an international sports phenom who now lives on Hilton Head Island. But non-sports fans

He retired from tennis in 1985 and stayed here on the island. He and Margie, his wife of 48 years, raised their four children here. Though he has traveled the world, he said,

Internationally renowned tennis professional Stan Smith was named Grand Marshal of the 2023 Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade in a ceremony Feb. 15 at Reilley’s Grill & Bar on the island. Smith will ride near the front of the parade, which begins at 3 p.m. March 12 on Pope Avenue near Lowcountry Celebration Park.

COURTESY HILTON HEAD ISLAND-BLUFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

50 Years of Growth in the Lowcountry & Beyond ank You…

2011 The Greenery opens branch in Beaufort. The Greenery opens branch in Savannah.

The

“Every time I come across the bridge after traveling, I breathe in that salt air and know I’m home.”

In 2002, Smith opened Smith Stearns Tennis Academy with fellow tennis standout with B.J. Stearns. Their programs coach and prepare motivated young athletes for a career in tennis.

Smith’s local volunteer efforts include the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head, including service as chair of the capital campaign to build the Gumtree Road facility 30 years ago. He was a trustee for the Heritage Classic Foundation, serving for a time as chair of the scholarship committee. He has long been a supporter of Hilton Head Volunteers in Medicine and of the Children’s Center.

Adidas named a green and white tennis shoe for Smith in 1973. Since then, the company recently announced, more than 100 million pairs have been sold. “I think I have 120 or so pairs in my closet,” Smith said. He wore a green pair to the sashing ceremony.

Scheduled to march in the parade are six pipe and drum bands, including Boston Police, Charleston and U.S. Border Patrol.

In addition, the U.S. Navy Band will march in our parade for the first time, and an Irish rock band from Boston, The Fenian Sons, will return for the second year. Several area high school bands and performance troupes will participate as well – for a total of 13 confirmed bands.

Local businesses, schools and nonprofits will be represented with colorful floats, cars, trucks, boats and other vehicles, along with local and state dignitaries. Attendees line both sides of the one-mile route down Pope Avenue from the Coligny area to the USCB campus on Office Park Drive. Those seeking a place to park are encouraged to look for business areas that are closed on Sundays, such as banks and office parks.

Volunteers are still needed for various duties, including owners of convertibles to drive dignitaries down the route. For more information about all events, including how to enter a business, group or nonprofit in the parade, visit hiltonheadireland.org. To volunteer, click on the Volunteer tab at the top of the page.

The Parris Island Marine Corps Band marches in the 2022 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. They are expected to return for this year’s parade March 12.

COURTESY HILTON HEAD ISLAND ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

COMPREHENSIVE, COMPASSIONATE CARE STARTS HERE.

Residents of the South Carolina lowcountry have access to expanded oncology services from St. Joseph’s/Candler where over a half-million cancer treatments have been performed in the last 5 years. They’ve received care that is nationally recognized for excellence, conveniently close to home at many locations throughout the region, including our newest location on our Bluffton Campus. The oncology specialists at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at St. Joseph’s/ Candler provide innovative advances in surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with customized treatment plans to target your specific cancer.

Expect the very best in oncology care. Located near your home, in your community, at St. Joseph’s/Candler.

Kay Redard celebrates her 100th birthday with her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends at The Seabrook of Hilton Head, where she has lived since 2005. Redard was born Feb. 7, 1923. Pictured with her are her grandson David Pattison and his fiancee Jamie Ann Reid. A lifelong musician, Redard has lived on Hilton Head since 1982.

Community event to honor nurses

The South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative (SCNRI) will hold a community celebration March 26 in honor of local nurses and the success of the SCNRI.

The event, Friends of Retaining Our Nurses (FOR Our Nurses), will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Belfair Clubhouse, 200 Belfair Oaks Blvd. in Bluffton.

Russell Baxley, president and CEO of Beaufort Memorial Hospital, will be the keynote speaker.

SCNRI was launched in 2021 to provide financial aid to attract and retain recent BSN and ADN nursing school graduates who continue to work in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

The celebration, which is open to the community, was created to thank all who have supported the work of the SCNRI in incentivizing the Lowcountry’s graduating nurses to choose and then remain employed in our area, helping to increase the supply of nurses

to improve the availability and quality of health care in the Lowcountry

Performing at the event will be Evolution Big Band, Bluffton’s hometown AllStar Big Band featuring 17 of the top jazz musicians in the Lowcountry; and a special performance by Stephanie Nakasian, known as one of the world’s leading jazz singers and a prolific recording artist.

“We are so grateful to everyone in the community for their support of this initiative to retain nurses in Beaufort and Jasper Counties,” said Bob Elliott, co-founder of SCNRI.

Since its founding, the SCNRI has succeeded in achieving a 75% nurse retention rate in Beaufort and Jasper counties and has positively impacted the lives of 11 nurses who are recipients of this financial aid who are now working here.

Tickets are $85 per person and are available at scnri.eventbrite.com.

ROB DILLS Founder and Managing Attorney

BS, University of South Carolina, JD, University of Dayton, School of Law,

The Greenery celebrates 50 years of putting people first

Recipient of the Silver Medal Award for Estate Planning

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By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR

When the shingle was first hung at 960 William Hilton Parkway in 1973, The Greenery might have appeared like every other dime-a-dozen landscaper. Ruthie and Berry Edwards were determined that their company would be anything but typical.

Their vision began with a couple of pickup trucks and a six-pack of employees that bought into their goal to do something different than just cutting the grass that never stops growing. The Edwardses wanted to hire the most knowledgeable and experienced landscaping and gardening staff in the area and motivate them to think bigger for their customers.

The economy goes up and down, and Mother Nature cooperates with the vision more some years than others, but that mission has stayed consistent, making The Greenery a foundational force in the growth of the Lowcountry service economy.

The company is celebrating two epic achievements this year: the 50th anniversary of the company and the 20th birthday of its employee stock ownership plan. Before his retirement, Berry set up the plan to give his

loyal crew true financial skin in the business they had helped develop and grow. By 2007, The Greenery became a 100% employee-owned company.

“Above all else, we value the people that make up The Greenery,” said their son Lee Edwards, the company’s CEO. Lee grew up in the business, but more than that, he saw his parents’ passion for people and the rewards that can be achieved in fostering a collaborative culture.

“From the commercial and residential sites to those in the offices, garden center and gift shop, The Greenery is composed of more than 800 dedicated individuals that have led to our success day in and day out.”

Edwards was begrudgingly quoted here.

As proud as he is of his family and the milestone, he wanted the spotlight to shine on the people who have driven the decades of success.

“That’s what drew me to The Greenery. It’s not just words. They set out every day to show their gratitude to their people,” said chief technology officer Janet DeNicola. “I worked for another landscape company that was more of the ‘mow, blow and go’ opera-

2020 Hilton Head Island Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program Graduate

Everyone who works at The Greenery is a part-owner of the company.

PHOTOS COURTESY THE GREENERY

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GREENERY from page 24A

tion. I’ve been here 15 years and every step of the way, I’ve seen there are no ceilings for me here.”

DeNicola began in branch operations, then was promoted to director of business development before heading up the company’s tech backbone.

“You see a hybrid culture here that is very difficult to create, let alone maintain. This is a mom-and-pop, family-owned business, but we’ve stretched to become a major corporate player in the industry,” she said.

The Greenery is ranked No. 30 in the U.S. landscape industry, a stratosphere normally reserved for conglomerates backed by private equity groups.

“There is this thirst to innovate here. This is a male-driven industry, not many women at the corporate level, but there have never been limits for me here,” DeNicola said. “We’re proud of the diverse makeup of our team, but for me, it’s because you are only defined by your passion and your follow-through here. It was once unheard of for women to be operating zero-turn mowers, but here, if that’s your goal, there is a path to achieve any next level.”

A buy-in to a focus on safety, quality and to going above and beyond for the client are the base of every Greenery team member. Director of Workforce Development and Safety Jerry Ashmore came to the company 22 years ago, drawn by the almost cult status the company had achieved. He began with The Greenery just as the Edwardses were finalizing their ESOP rollout.

“When you have skin in the game, you

care more, period. You attract good people and you keep them. We’re working for each other here, from top to bottom, because we know as the company grows and expands, the opportunities just keep coming,” Ashmore said. “We have people driven to evolve how we serve our clients. It’s exciting to work on some of the country’s most beautiful properties and to rise to the challenge of making them even prettier.”

Regional manager Miles Graves has helped lead the charge into new markets like Jacksonville, Amelia Island and Daytona in Florida and Greenville and Spartanburg in South Carolina. While every city has its unique makeup and landscape challenges, the drive to thrive born on Hilton Head is the blueprint.

“What’s driven my passion is the pursuit of greatness. I’ve had a competitive spirit and love nothing more than creating the most gorgeous striped lawn or a jaw-dropping floral display,” Graves said. “We create a vast amount of beauty for the community, but it will never be perfect. That’s the nature of nature, but it doesn’t mean we don’t try for that perfection and we love giving it a go.”

The keys to achieving those stunning landscapes year after year are similar to how the company continues its upward trajectory. The companies that get stagnant forget to water the garden. As hard as we tried to avoid nursery cliches, DeNicola was willing to indulge my analogy.

“There is a 401k with matching from the

Crews from the early days at The Greenery had far less sophisticated equipment at their disposal.

GREENERY from page 26A

company. It doesn’t sound sexy, but there are not many companies with retirement funds or pensions in today’s corporate world,” DeNicola said. “It sounds cheesy, but those are the nutrients to growing and maintaining a vibrant team.”

The Greenery works with its partners to test and improve the newest innovations in both in-the-field technology and clean energy and backbone software that can improve efficiencies in managing the business.

“Things like robotic mowers and battery-operated equipment, they aren’t taking jobs, they’re allowing us to concentrate our attention on other needs,” DeNicola said. “There is a low barrier to entry in this business, you buy some equipment and sure, anyone can ‘mow, blow and go.’ Planned health care, spraying, irrigation, a five-year plan to develop and maintain the plants as they grow more mature. The more efficient we can become, the more we can focus on the complexities that make us stand out.”

Nature is never the same. Ashmore said that is why the attention to the Edwards’ original vision persists and drives every

decision in the company. It’s at the core of The Greenery becoming one of the largest and most respected landscaping companies in the Southeast.

“People are our greatest asset. The workforce challenges may change, the business climate may change, but we are consistent on attracting and keeping innovators on our team,” Ashmore said. “We’re always ready for the next curveball Mother Nature throws at us because we have the team with the knowledge and experience to adapt to any challenge.”

It’s what has folks like DeNicola, Graves and Ashmore excited for the next 50 years ahead.

“It’s fun. I enjoy working with our team and our clients,” Ashmore said. “When you know you’re part of a winning formula from the first-day employee to the CEO, it frees us all up to just dream up the next great plan, to create world-class beauty with every landscape.”

*Total purchase value must exceed $500 or more on select furniture for offer to be valid. For one time use only and sales associate prior to time of sale

*Total purchase value must exceed $500 or more on select furniture for o er to be valid. For one time use only and can’t be used with any other o er or discount. This o er must be presented to sales associate prior to time of sale.

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. timwood@blufftonsun.com.

Welcome Dr. Heller!

Dr. Gary Heller has joined our practice as a general dentist! A native of Kingsport, TN, Dr. Heller attended the University of Georgia and the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. Dr. Heller’s upbeat and welcoming personality, along with his depth of experience, make him the perfect addition to our ROC Star team!

Dr. Heller’s arrival enables us to better serve our patients and contribute more to our Lowcountry community.

St. Luke’s to host inaugural weekly Lenten Lunch Series

St. Luke’s Anglican Church will host its new March Lenten Lunch Series, a new speaker series, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays in March at the church, 50 Pope Ave. on Hilton Head Island, A complimentary soup and salad lunch will be provided to participants by Truffles Cafe and served in Kronz Fellowship Hall. Donations are welcome to cover costs, and childcare is available upon request.

In the Anglican Book of Common Prayer, at the service for Ash Wednesday (Feb. 22), which is the start of the observation of Lent, we read: “Dear People of God: The First Christians observed with great devotion the day of our Lord’s passion and resurrection, and it became the custom of the Church to prepare for them by a season of penitence and fasting ... We are then invited, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent: by self-examination and repentance, by prayer, fasting, and alms-giving; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy word.’”

In this spirit, the community is invited to join us as we welcome speakers from all over North America to help us observe a holy Lent. The theme, “Hope in the Shadow of the Cross,” will help participants reflect on how Jesus’ death and resurrection reveal both the depth of our need and security of our hope.

The speaker lineup includes:

March 1: The Rev. Andrew Pearson, interim executive director of Rwanda Ministry Partners will be our featured guest speaker. Rev. Pearson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies/Sociology from the University of Virginia and a Master of Divinity from Oxford University. Rev. Pearson, an Anglican priest, has pastored churches in South Carolina and Alabama. He now lives, with his wife and three daughters, on a farm in his native Virginia. In addition to farming, Andrew assists the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda in the areas of strategy

and development.

March 8: This second week, the Very Rev. Dr. Bryan Hollon, Dean President of Trinity School for Ministry, will be the featured speaker. Rev. Hollon holds a Ph.D. in Religion from Baylor University and a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. He’s the author of “Everything is Sacred: Spiritual Exegesis in the Political Theology of Henri de Lubac” as well as numerous book chapters, journal, and magazine articles. Dr. Hollon was ordained a priest in the Anglican Church in North America in 2015.

March 15: The featured speaker for the third session is Dr. James Wood, Assistant Professor of Ministry at Redeemer University. Rev. Wood holds a Ph. D. in Theology from University of Toronto, a Th.M. in Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary, and an M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary. Dr. Wood has worked as an associate editor at First Things Magazine, a PCA pastor in Austin, Texas, and a campus evangelist and team leader with Cru Ministries at the University of Texas at Austin.

March 22: The Rev. Nick Lannon will

Rev. Jady Koch

Dine with celebrities, raise funds to buy books for children

A World Book Day Celebrity Gala to benefit Libraries for Kids will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. April 22 at Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary St. in Bluffton.

Cocktail attire is suggested.

Music will be provided by The Chiggers, the 2020 recipient of the Readers’ Choice best local band award.

There will be a celebrity or local hero with his or her guest at each of the dinner tables. Celebrities will have pre-assigned seats but ticket buyers will not, which means that after ticket buyers choose a table, the celebrities will find their table number and join them.

The following is a list of local celebrities who have made a commitment to attend.

• Arthur V. Martin, Ph.D., 2021 Nobel Peace Prize finalist

• Cassandra King Conroy, New York Times & USA Today bestselling author

• Dr. Bobbi Tenwolde, first woman born and raised in Bluffton to become a family practice doctor (member of the first graduating class USCB-Bluffton; has done medical mission work in Africa and in the U.S.)

• Chief Bruce Kline (Lady’s Island), Twotime winner of an award for best firefighter,

a hero who has risked his life to save others.

• Sallie Ann Robinson, Gullah chef, author, tour guide, TV personality, sixth-generation native Daufuskie Islander, and former student of author Pat Conroy

• Pat Branning, award-winning Southern cookbook author

• Dennis Stokely, celebrity hairdresser who traveled with Paula Abdul and who continues as “stylist to the stars”

• John Warley, award-winning Southern author and Citadel graduate

• Robert Gwaltney, award-winning debut Southern author, advocate for early childhood literacy, and vice president of Easter Seals North Georgia

• Monty Jett, renowned local radio personality, announcer, and emcee for 40-plus years

• Ken Francis, South Carolina children’s author

• Dana Ridenour, retired undercover FBI agent and award-winning author

• Susan Beckham Zurenda, award-winning Southern author

• Capt. Woody Collins, popular retired

Please see LIBRARIES on page 33A

Students at the Kyalinlini School in Kitui, Kenya, share books received from Libraries for Kids International, a nonprofit based in Bluffton.

COURTESY LIBRARIES FOR KIDS

LENT from page 30A

be featured the fourth week. Rev. Lannon is Rector of Grace Anglican Church and is a graduate of the University of Arizona, having studied Communications and Religious Studies, and of Trinity School for Ministry with a degree in Systematic Theology and Ethics. Ordained in 2007, Nick has pastored churches in Jersey City and Denville, New Jersey; and Louisville, Kentucky. Rev. Lannon is author of “Life is Impossible...and That’s Good News.”

March 29: The featured speaker, the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Mumme, Professor of Theology at Hillsdale College, previously taught at Concordia University Wisconsin (2014-2021) and Westfield House in Cambridge (2012-14). Working in systematic theology and in the history of doctrines and ideas, his research focuses primarily on ecclesiology, Martin Luther and Reformation studies, and theology and society. Mumme is co-editor of “Feasting in a Famine of the Word of God” (2016), “Luther at Leipzig” (Brill, 2019), and “Church as Fullness in All

Things” (Lexington/Fortress, 2019).

About Saint Luke’s Anglican: The mission of Saint Luke’s Anglican on Hilton Head is “To know Christ and to make Him known.” The vision of the church is that as a family of believers, its parishioners will continue growing in the love of Jesus, sharing the joy of worship, and serving the community and beyond.

On Oct. 22, 2022, the Rev. Dr. John D. “Jady” Koch was instituted as the seventh rector of St. Luke’s Anglican Church. Rev. Koch is a graduate of Washington & Lee University (2000) and Trinity School for Ministry (2007). He earned his Doctorate in Systematic Theology at the University of Humboldt in Berlin, Germany, in 2014. Having served in churches in Berlin, Vienna and in Louisville, Kentucky, Rev Koch is excited to have been called to Saint Luke’s Anglican and has been implementing new programs since his arrival. For more information and to register, visit stlukeshhi.org or call 843-785-4099.

Book clubs offered at HH Library

Several book clubs are being offered by and held at the Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Road.

The newest is Heritage Book Club, starting at 11 a.m. March 1. This is a new, nonfiction book club for those who enjoy history. This group is a joint program with the Heritage Library, the local nonprofit, private library geared towards the research of local history and genealogy.

The first meeting will discuss “A Yankee Scholar in Coastal South Carolina – the Civil War Journals of William Francis Allen,” edited by James Robert Hester.

The club hopes to meet quarterly to discuss a selected book on local and localized historic topics. All are welcome.

Classics Book Club will meet at 2 p.m. March 7 at the library. Join us for a dis-

LIBRARIES from page 31A

local boat captain, former owner of restaurants bearing his name, and author of a 310page coffee table book about the 100-year history of lowcountry shrimping, “Where Have all the Shrimp Boats Gone?”

• Michel Dion, retired Canadian ice hockey goal tender (WHA and NHL) who played for Indianapolis Racers, Cincinnati Stingers, Quebec Nordiques, Winnipeg Jets, and Pittsburgh Penguins.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Libraries for Kids International, a local 501(c) (3) nonprofit established in 2018 by Bluffton resident Roy Austin, who saw terrific needs of children while on a trip to Kenya.

The mission Libraries for Kids International is to help rural schools with limited or no access to the internet or electricity establish libraries.

The organization is currently focused on schools in rural Kenya, and there is a waiting list for other countries.

Rural schools only receive $5.50 per student per year from the Kenyan government. Villagers must fund and build their

cussion of “The Stone Angel” by Margaret Laurence.

Tea, Talk & Tales will be held at 2 p.m. March 21, to discuss “Afterlives” by Abdulrazak Gurnah.

Enjoy hot tea and warm discussions on each month’s selected reading and its tangents. No sign up required and books will be made available.

Novel Choice Book Club is offered at 4 p.m. March 27. The fiction choice for March is “Killers of the Flower Moon” by David Grann.

To attend virtually, email emma.maines@bcgov.net to receive an invite to join in on the Microsoft Teams app. For more information about any of these clubs, contact the reference desk at 843-255-6525.

own school buildings. Textbooks are usually shared – about five books for 40-50 learners. Reference materials are not provided at all.

The $5.50 is for all expenses, including desks, pens, chalk, blackboard, building maintenance, and for a school cook and watchman.

The organization has created libraries in more than 3,000 schools in Kenya, impacting around a half-million children in less than four years.

But this is just the start. Each new shipping container will create libraries in 250 additional schools and make a positive impact on the lives of approximately 56,000 more students.

Tickets for the gala are $150 each, which includes drinks, dinner and dancing, and are available on EventBrite.

Specialty cocktails are provided by Tito’s Homemade Vodka.

For more information, visit libraries4kids. org. To make a donation by check, make it payable to Libraries for Kids and mail to P.O. Box 1013, Bluffton, SC 29910.

ON CHILD/ADOLESCENT H AND WELLNESS

UR COMMUNITY UR COMMUNITY UR YOUTH UR YOUTH UR FUTURE UR FUTURE

WHERE?

Bluffton High School-

12 H.E. McCracken Cir. Blu

She went by many names, but Marilyn Daly’s voice was unique

COMMUNITY FORUM ON CHILD & ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS

COMMUNITY FORUM ON CHILD/ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

WHEN?

March 27th, 2023

WHO SHOULD ATTEND? EVERYONE!

March 27,2023

Registration & Light Refreshments

WHERE?

Bluffton High School Auditorium

Bluffton High School- Auditorium 12 H.E. McCracken Cir. Bluffton SC 29910

WHY?

5:30 p.m. -6:00 p.m. Program

12 H.E. McCracken Circle Bluffton

WHEN?

In the US Surgeon General's Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health, Dr. Vivek Murthy discusses the need for a whole society approach to supporting the mental health needs of our young people.

Refreshments and Registration

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

March 27th, 2023

Registration & Light Refreshments

5:30pm-6pm Program 6pm-8pm

5:30 p.m. -6:00 p.m. Program

THIS IS A FREE EVENT!

FEATURED SPEAKERS

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

WHO SHOULD ATTEND? EVERYONE

CEU CREDITS APPLIED FOR:

MEDICAL UNIVERISITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

MEDICAL UNIVERISITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

-Nurses

-Social Workers

-Counselors/Therapists

In The US Surgeon General’s Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health, Dr. Vivek Murthy discusses the need for a whole society approach to support the mental health needs of our young people.

Best Practice available for other professions/disciplines.

UR COMMUNI UR COMMUNI

Anna Kirkland, PhD

Anna Kirkland, PhD

Alexis Garcia, PhD

Alexis Garcia, PhD

UR YOUTH UR YOUTH

FEATURED SPEAKERS

INCLUDING A MESSAGE FROM TEENS FOR HEALTHY YOUTH

Questions? Email: lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com

Medical University of South Carolina

UR FUTURE UR FUTURE

Register here for this FREE event:

INCLUDING A MESSAGE FROM TEENS FOR HEALTHY YOUTH

Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Sponsored by:

Anna Kirkland, PhD and Alexis Garcia, PhD

LOWCOUNTRY ALLIANCE FOR HEALTHY YOUTH IS A RECIPIENT OF THE DRUG-FREE COMMUNITIES (DFC) SUPPORT PROGRAM GRANT AWARDED BY THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL POLICY (ONDCP) AND ADMINISTERED BY THE CDC THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE LOWCOUNTRY SERVES AS THE FISCAL AGENT

COMMUNITY FORUM ON CHILD/ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Register here for this FREE event.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND? EVERYONE!

Sponsored by:

WHY?

https://www.lcahealthyyouth.com/

In the US Surgeon General's Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health, Dr. Vivek Murthy discusses the need for a whole society approach to supporting the mental health needs of our young people.

CEU CREDITS APPLIED FOR:

-Nurses -Social Workers -Counselors/Therapists

CEU credits applied for:

https://www.lcahealthyyouth.com/

-Nurses -Social Workers -Counselors/Therapists

Best Practice available for other professions/disciplines.

Best Practice available for other professions/disciplines.

Questions? Email: lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com

QUESTIONS?

Email: lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com www.lcahealthyyouth.com

Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth is a recipient of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) support program grant awarded by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and administered by the CDC. The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry serves as the fiscal agent.

By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR

WHERE?

Bluffton High School- Auditorium 12 H.E. McCracken Cir. Bluffton SC 29910

WHEN?

March 27th, 2023

Registration & Light Refreshments

5:30 p m -6:00 p m Program

Mike Daly always knew he was merely a star orbiting in her galaxy. He was a blue-collar guy with a creative flair who somehow caught the attention of Marilyn Deluca in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Mike had no formal training but had a passion for bass guitar and enough friends to connect him to local bar owners looking for musical acts.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

MEDICAL UNIVERISITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Anna Kirkland, PhD

Alexis Garcia, PhD

INCLUDING A MESSAGE FROM TEENS FOR HEALTHY YOUTH

The two connected after she came to a rehearsal of one of Mike’s early guitar-player gigs in Kelly’s Band. That began a mutual infatuation, two teens who knew they wanted a journey far beyond the Philadelphia suburbs. But it wasn’t until their dreaming landed them in the Virgin Islands that Mike bore witness to the voice that changed his life.

Register here for this FREE event:

“(Our daughter) Kelci was born in 1977 and that next year, we formed a band named Groundsea,” he said. “We played Fleetwood Mac, Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, some blues. And Marilyn – she was a dynamo off the stage, but behind a mic, it was just magical from Day One. The minute people heard her, the place was on fire with energy and applause and people crowding in off the street.”

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Groundsea became the celebrated rock band in St. Thomas, packing bars like Larry’s Hideaway and Fat City on Back Street, a musical hot spot equally famous for even locals getting routinely mugged in the daylight.

Longing to be closer to family, the family of five moved back to Bryn Mawr. There, they formed Nell and the Do-Rights and

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“It’s 1976, we’re off the map, built a house in the rain forest, I’m working at the post office down there, she’s nursing Jevon and Gav and she starts singing Fleetwood Mac and it just stops me in my tracks,” he said. “It’s just absolutely stunning. I’d never heard her sing before and I knew I always wanted to hear her sing from that moment on.”

Marilyn Daly, center, was the dynamic voice of The Techniques, one of the most popular bands of the mid-1980s on Hilton Head Island.

MARILYN from page 34A started to mix a little harder edge into the repertoire, adding some Rolling Stones into the play list.

“We’re just owning these college bars. She was just so dynamic, so charismatic. She mesmerized you with the short skirt and the voice,” Mike said.

Son Jevon remembers the first time he saw his Mom on stage rehearsing before a show.

“I knew we were a different kind of family, but man, to see her, to see the physical swagger. Even in rehearsal, she just dominated the room,” Jevon said.

Longing for a change of scenery and warmer temperatures, the Dalys were on the move again in the early ’80s, this time to Hilton Head Island. With this move, their reputation preceded them a bit.

“We had folks speaking up for us to get in doors early on, but again, when Marilyn started singing, it was magic,” Mike said. This incarnation was known as Holly Hilton and the Rockets. Marilyn would sport a tennis skirt and all whites, giving off an air of innocence that was shattered the minute she began gyrating on stage.

The scene could get raucous and alcohol-fueled at places like Amadeus above New York City Pizza or the White Parrot at the old Holiday Inn, but Mike said his better half almost enjoyed that chaos.

“Nobody could shake her. She was intimidating and inviting all at once. People knew it was her room and not to mess with her,” he said.

Mike picked up keyboard player Tommy Beaumont by stealing him from a band that played regularly atop the Hilton Head Inn. They added drummer Dave Ennis, a former high school and Air Force marching band player and HVAC guy on the island that Mike called the best in-the-pocket session drummer he’d ever seen.

“Dave passed away recently. We just loved him and he added so much to the vibe,” Mike said.

“Holly Hilton” and company played at the Shelter Cove open-air stage in 1985, playing pop hits, adding in Blondie and The Police to their classic formula that packed the Fourth of July show. They were the last band to play Shelter Cove before Shannon Tanner started

a three-decade run with a “bit tamer show,” Mike said with a smile.

The band evolved into The Techniques, a late-’80s mix that garnered groupies like long-time island music scene regular Sammy Long – just one of many that say Marilyn was one of the most dynamic performers to ever play these parts.

“We didn’t do original songs, we took extreme pride in being the best bar band out there,” Mike said. “Her phrasing, her cadence, she made every familiar song her own in a different way every night.”

The couple rocked the island consistently until one beach show in 1988, where after another raucous crowd got the best show she had in her, Marilyn turned to Mike and said, “This is it. I’ve had it.”

Jevon said growing up in that glow was “so many things.”

“She’d drive us to school and tell us, ‘You know we’re the coolest family in this school, the hippest by far, right?’ She gave us confidence we didn’t know was there. But there was also hearing your friends say, ‘Your mom is so cool. I just jammed with her backstage.’

That’s a big shadow, but my mom, she had no other gear except cool. She loved Alice in Chains, Faith No More, Lenny Kravitz. I remember her singing songs from ‘Mama Said’ and thinking, ‘How does she know all the words to every song already?”

The Dalys played a handful of shows as a family, but it was more a novelty than a next chapter – Mike and Jevon estimate the family played 10 shows total together.

Jevon and Gavan played in the high school band, and became the trained musicians in the family. By their early 20s, they were the house band at Hinchey’s, playing with Ben Vaught as The Daly Planet in the mid ’90s “thinking we were pretty damn cool.”

And then Mom would come in after working a restaurant shift.

“And we’re like, ‘Oh, shoot (edited for family publication). We thought we were owning the joint and then she’d say, ‘Let me play one with you.’ And she would literally own the place,” Jevon said. “She hadn’t played a gig in months, maybe years and it was always the

Please see MARILYN on page 36A

MARILYN from page 35A

same, slayed it. And then we’d have to follow that and realize we weren’t the kings we thought we were.”

Jevon remembers a ’90s road trip, their only return to Bryn Mawr, just after he and Gav had cut a CD with Jeff Franklin.

“I put it in and my mom is just laughing. We were a different thing – we were skateboarder dudes, punk rock and original lyrics and funkiness,” he said. “We think we’re bad asses and she smiles and says, ‘These songs are so out in left field, how do you guys come up with this stuff?’”

Just three years later, Marilyn Daly died from brain cancer in 1999 at the age of 47.

“It was hard. We all go through those phases of rebellion and childishness with our parents. I had just hit that zone where I had become her friend,” Jevon said.

The legacy lives on. The sound has evolved. Jevon has a very distinct yet indefinable lane, Gav has become a renowned tattoo artist, and father and sons have become one of the more beloved bands of the day with Lowcountry Boil playing Southern bluegrass.

Jevon went from “faking it on raw talent” to a more seasoned professional playing with Mike Kavanaugh in JoJo Squirrel and the Home Pickles, as well as a 20-year-run in the heavy metal rockers Silicon Sister.

“People would especially say to me, ‘Oh if she could have seen you play with Silicon.’ I wish she’d seen me take what she instilled in me and just take off to Mars with it,” he said.

Jevon wishes his daughters, shy but budding musicians themselves, had the presence and the daily dose of confidence from their grandmother, who would be 71 this year.

There was no YouTube back then and few recordings remain. Gavan has a recording of a classic Old Post Office performance that the family plans to remaster and share with the public.

“People, you need to hear this woman. The voice, it could haunt us if we let it because we miss her so much,” Jevon said. “But it just brings her back, gives me a shot of confidence knowing where I came from.”

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. timwood@blufftonsun.com.

Noteworthy

• The RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing is looking for additional Standard Bearers to volunteer at the 2023 event April 10-16.

Youth between the ages of 12 and 18 who are familiar with the game of golf may apply at trusteventsolutions.com/event/49/home, by clicking on “Register Here.” Registration closes March 10.

Parental permission is required in order to participate. For more information contact Skylar Jewell at Sjewell012@gmail.com.

• “First Children in S.C. School Desegregation,” a presentation by Dr. Millicent Brown, will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. March 4 at St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church, 20 Pope Ave.

Dr. Brown is an educator, author, civil rights leader, and activist. She is co-founder and project director of a national initiative, Somebody Had To Do It Project, to identify the “first children,” like herself, to desegregate previously all-white schools.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information and to RSVP, email standrewbythesea@gmail.com

• Liberal Men of the Lowcountry will meet at noon March 8 at the Country Club of Hilton Head.

Guest speaker is Richard Hammes, speaking on behalf of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.

Cost for the luncheon is $27. Non-members are welcome to attend, but must email bew_50@hotmail.com before March 7.

• The monthly Palm Trees & Pistons car show will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. March 11 at Sea Turtle Marketplace, in the parking lot across from Starbucks.

The show will feature vintage, antique, exotic, muscle and unique cars owned by area locals. Any car owners who would like to display their vehicles are welcome to do so at no cost.

The show is held the second Saturday of each month and is open to the public.

• Palmetto Quilt Guild will meet March 16 at Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort, 40 Folly Field Road.

Social hour begins at noon and the meet-

ing starts at 1 p.m. Guests are welcome. Guest speaker is Mia Koerner, who will speak about antique quilts.

• Lowcountry Legal Volunteers is seeking volunteers with legal experience, such as retired or active attorneys, paralegals and legal secretaries. An introductory meeting will be held at 11 a.m. March 21 at their office, 108 Traders Cross in Okatie.

The nonprofit organization offers free legal services for qualifying low-income residents. Register by calling 843-815-1570. For more information, visit lowcountrylegal volunteers.org.

• Area members of Delta Delta Delta are invited to the local chapter’s next meeting, March 27 at The Culinary Institute of the South, 1 Venture Drive in Bluffton.

Following an 11:30 a.m. Meet and Greet, attendees will order from the Bistro menu. Reserve a seat by calling 843-290-9016.

• The Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth will host a community forum on child and adolescent mental health and wellness at 5:30 p.m. March 27 at Bluffton High School Auditorium, 12 H.E. McCracken Circle in Bluffton.

Featured speakers are Anna Kirkland, Ph.D. and Alexis Garcia, Ph.D., both of the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at MUSC.

The event is open to the public. CEU credits are available for nurses, social workers, counselors, and therapists.

For more information, email lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com.

• The Deep Well Project will celebrate 50 years with the premiere of a film, “Looking Back. Moving Forward,” from 5 to 7:30 p.m. March 28 at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

The film features personal recollections of Hilton Head Island and Deep Well’s history over the past 50 years.

A panel discussion will follow, with Morris Campbell, Betsy Doughtie and David Lauderdale.

Tickets are $100 each. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit artshhi.org.

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• Michele Morton, a Lowcountry entrepreneur who has built and grown six businesses over the past 27 years, has joined Pay Proudly, the Bluffton-based credit card processing company.

Morton will lead strategic business and people development. In this role, she will contribute to Pay Proudly’s organizational, sales and people development to expand the reach and depth of their credit card processing solutions, support and culture.

Morton, who has held a number of key business leadership roles throughout the Lowcountry, has most recently served as a strategic growth consultant at Trevally Group, and has worked for midsize wireless tech organizations for more than 15 years.

Prior roles include director of people for Growth Tools in Nashville, Tennessee, and founder of Market Street Inn in Charleston.

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Pay Proudly is a Bluffton-based credit card processing company that provides its merchants with local support and an opportunity to give back to the community. For more information, visit payproudly. com.

• Joseph Nowicki has been hired by Savannah Surfaces as the logistics/ warehouse manager at their headquarters in Hardeeville, South Carolina.

Nowicki brings several years of operations and logistics experience. Previously he managed logistics operations for Macy’s, Lowe’s and Home Depot. He earned his BBA in International Business from the University of North Florida.

As the logistics/warehouse manager,

Nowicki will oversee the company’s interior tile and exterior hardscapes warehouse and stone yard operations. He will also manage all driver personnel to better receive, load and deliver quality products to our customers.

Savannah Surfaces is a provider of quality surfacing across the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire.

• Two new staff members have joined Memory Matters.

Michelle Frink is the new program director. She has nine years of experience working with families in need of medical and memory assistance.

Most recently Frink worked at NHC Health in Bluffton as the director of social services.

She will be working with families who are interested in enrolling in the Memory Matters Day program or need assistance with resources outside of the organization’s purview.

She will also be leading the Day Program team to ensure our participants are receiving engaging activities and care while their caregivers receive much needed respite.

Diashay Brown is the new activities coordinator for the Day Program. She will be leading daily exercises, activities and social interaction with participants. Brown comes to Memory Matters with an extensive background in memory care. Most recently she worked at Thrive Senior Living in the Memory Care Unit on Skidaway Island, Savannah.

Memory Matters is located at 117 William Hilton Pkwy. on Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit mymemorymatters.org.

Michele Morton

Joseph Nowicki

Michelle Frink Diashay Brown

• Marc Saurborn, CFA has assumed the role of Chief Investment Officer at Dividend Assets Capital, an independent wealth and asset manager. He will also become a member of the firm’s Executive Committee.

Saurborn joined DAC in 2022 as director of research and investment strategy with more than 25 years of experience in investment research and portfolio management.

Prior to DAC, he was the chief investment officer of the Legacy Foundation, where he managed investment and retirement portfolios for employees at the University of Virginia. He was a co-founding partner of Patrumin Investors, an independent investment advisory firm that specialized in dividend growth investing.

Troy Shaver, DAC’s chief executive officer and current chief investment officer, will pass the duties and responsibilities of the CIO role to Marc. He will remain CEO, continue to serve on the Investment Committee and focus on his portfolio management activities.

• Yuri Kennedy has been promoted to sales manager of the Bluffton Office of Moul Realtors, located at 1132 May River Road.

Kennedy joined the brokerage in 2021. As the No. 1 sales agent for the past two years at the brokerage, he has mastered his craft of real estate sales and demonstrated his dedication to his clients by recently obtaining his South

Carolina brokers license, the highest level of education available to a real estate agent.

• StoneWorks was recently awarded a prestigious national Pinnacle Award by the National Stone Institute (NSI) for a project the company completed at a Palmetto Bluff home. They were recognized in the Kitchen/Bath category. Competing against natural stone professionals from around the country, “this highly coveted award is given to projects whose beauty, creativity, ingenuity, and craftsmanship exemplify professional mastery in the use of natural stone in commercial and residential applications,” according to the NSI website.

One unique feature of the project was the full height quartzite backsplash. The Mont Blanc Quartzite was also installed on the kitchen island with a waterfall edge. The stone’s cool white background, accented with charcoal veining. The project required an intricately measured and cut fit for the full height backsplash around the range hood all the way up to the ceiling. Two bookmatched slabs were required with a precise layout, in order to match the veins on the center seam, as well as the waterfall mitered panels in the kitchen. The Natural Stone Institute is a trade association representing every aspect of the natural stone industry. The current membership exceeds 2,000 members in over 50 countries.

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time they visit. We pride ourselves on the customer experience. It is important to always keep up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely separates the gimmicks from the options that produce results. It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ goals and then help guide them to the treatments and procedures that will help us all work toward that shared goal. Your inner and outer you should be

Botox at the dentist: cosmetic and medical therapy treatments

By Jordan Haire CONTRIBUTOR

While filling cavities and performing crown restorations are a big part of my day, more patients continue to ask for aesthetic improvements to their smiles. I love this part of my work because I can combine the science of dentistry with the art of design. Whether improving a patient’s current smile or designing a new smile, my goal is to achieve the most natural appearance possible. For some patients, I find that Botox is an excellent complement at the final stage of a smile transformation.

Since it was first approved by the FDA in 1989 for medical therapy and in 2002 for cosmetic therapy, Botox has become the most widely researched and studied treatment of its kind. I rely on its safe, easy and quick effectiveness in delivering amazing results to my patients.

As a dentist, I have years of extensive training on the nearly 20 muscles that work together to form facial expressions like smiles, raised eyebrows and pouts.

I get to know my patients’ expressions extremely well from our interactions during routine check-ups, which bring us literally face-to-face. This helps me administer Botox in the best places and yield the most natural results.

In addition to being experts in the head

and neck region, dentists are taught to achieve balance and symmetry in everything we do, whether it’s a simple filling or full mouth rehabilitation. We focus on the smile in relation to our patient’s face, not just the teeth within their mouth.

I also use Botox as a medical therapy to treat patients experiencing teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. Pressure from bruxism can cause gum recession and headaches and can increase tooth pain or sensitivity. Bruxism can also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which cause tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, tired or tight jaw muscles that

Paul Russo, OD joins our highly skilled, professional staff.

Bishop Eye Center now has seven physicians in three Lowcountry locations to welcome you with an exceptional eye care environment and premier patient experience right where you live.

Dr. Russo, a Veteran of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom, relocated from Cooperstown, NY after being on staff at Bassett Healthcare’s Department of Ophthalmology for 23 years as an optometrist. His eye care experience ranges from routine eye exams to glaucoma eye care to managing medical and acute eye diseases. Dr. Russo will be seeing patients at all three Bishop Eye Center locations.

cannot open or close the mouth completely, among other issues.

Depending on where a patient’s pain originates, I inject Botox into the masseter muscle, which is responsible for chewing, or into the TMJ directly. In the same way it relaxes facial muscles to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, the Botox injection releases the muscles and reduces tension. Most patients experience little discomfort during the procedure and are so thankful for the much-needed relief. Results are expected one to three days after injection but can take up to two weeks and can last 90 to 120 days. Whether for cosmetic enhancements or medical therapy, I invite you to talk to your dentist during your next routine check up to see if Botox is right for you.

Jordan Haire, DMD is a dentist in practice with ROC Dental Group on Hilton Head Island.

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Beaufort Memorial introduces breakthrough spine procedure

By Barry Kaufman CONTRIBUTOR

Chronic neck and nerve pain are among the most common problems addressed through spine surgery, and Beaufort Memorial is now offering a breakthrough, same-day procedure to alleviate neck pain and improve mobility.

Called cervical disc replacement surgery, this FDA-approved procedure removes a damaged disc and replaces it with an artificial disc.

“The result of stress, poor posture, increased screen time and other factors, cervical disc pain may begin in the neck, but can quickly radiate across the shoulders

and down the arms,” said Dr. B. Andrew Castro, Beaufort Memorial board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon. “The source of the problem is the discs between your vertebrae, the structures that absorb all of that shock, strain and pain.”

The cervical disc replacement begins with a small incision on the front of the neck. State-of-the-art technology allows the surgeon to then access the spinal column through this incision, removing the problem disc and replacing it with a cervical disc prosthesis. This artificial disc is inserted between two healthy vertebrae, which anchor it in place. The precision engineering of the disc replacement gives almost the full range of motion of a healthy disc.

“Most cervical disc replacements are done as an outpatient procedure,” said Dr. Castro, who performed the first cervical disc replacement surgery last month at Beaufort Memorial and is currently the only

surgeon in the county offering the procedure. “There’s very little downside, very little blood loss, and you can usually be home the same day.”

Before this procedure was available, the preferred method for treating this chronic pain was a process called fusion. During spinal fusion, a surgeon inserts material between the two spinal bones, connecting both bones together, minimizing movement between them and reducing stress on the nerve.

“With fusion, you’re immobilizing the vertebrae with a plate, which requires a hard collar for four to six weeks after the surgery,” said Dr. Castro, who sees patients at BOSS Orthopaedics in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island and Beaufort. “You can take pressure off the nerve roots and spinal cord, but it results in diminished movement because of the immobilization of the vertebrae. Also, the segments above and below are exposed

to extra load.”

While he has seen countless patients benefit from this advanced technique, Dr. Castro cautions that it is more suitable for some patients than others.

“There are certain conditions in the neck – trauma, tumors, spinal cord compression – that would make a disc replacement less ideal for that patient,” he said, noting that cervical disc replacement is more suitable for younger patients whose discs have not seen a lot of degenerative changes.

“It’s designed for a relatively healthy disc which has a herniation,” said Castro. “But for those who fit the bill, this cutting-edge procedure can give people suffering chronic neck pain a new lease on life, with shorter recovery and a greater range of motion.”

To learn more about treatment for neck pain, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/NeckPain.

Lowcountry resident Barry Kaufman is a freelance writer.

Dr. Andrew Castro

Combining standard piano sound with electronics yields magic

By Jennifer Herrin CONTRIBUTOR

What are some of the things you would like to be able to do anytime? These days, we can pretty much do anything at any time of the day. (Regrettably, perhaps!)

Do you need to place an order for something? Your favorite online store is open. Are you hungry? You can order a pizza (or burgers, or anything that can be “dashed” to your door) just about all day and all night long.

Can’t sleep at night? You can still watch TV or stream any show or movie you can imagine, until the sun comes up. Banking after hours? Sure! Just get online or call. And if you’re a real go-getter, you can even access your 24-hour gym any time you want.

In all seriousness, everything seems to be available literally all the time. Why should it

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be any different for pianos?

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “I couldn’t play the piano at any hour of the day or night; it would bother my neighbors / wake up the kids / send the dog howling.” But I’m here to reply: “Yes, you could!”

Hybrids aren’t just for cars anymore. A hybrid piano would allow you to do just that: play the piano without bothering the neighbors, waking up the kids, or sending the dog howling. It would also allow your kids to play without bothering, waking, or causing YOU to howl. You might say, “That sounds like a keyboard.” But a hybrid piano is an entirely different species of instrument. A hybrid piano can actually be approached in two ways by a manufacturer. One way is to start with a traditional

Please see FAMILY on page 44A

Watch these steering factors to help foresee real estate trends

By Chip Collins CONTRIBUTOR

In our previous article we discussed four steering factors that we are paying close attention to as we look to the year ahead for real estate in the Lowcountry. Here are some others that we find equally pertinent.

Market Pixelization: From 2020 to 2022 and from coast to coast in the U.S., the real estate market reflected pretty much one distinct color: red hot! But as interest rates increased in 2022 and buyers backed away from paying ultra-premium prices, the color of different markets began to change and vary from one another … thus, pixelization began.

We expect that this variation will become increasingly evident from market to market, both nationally and locally. Sub-factors such as affordability, taxes, insurance, rentability, POA dues/offerings,

density, traffic, property condition/age/updates, and many others are likely to serve as the basis for greater buyer discrimination in the coming year.

Lowcountry Climate: Punctuated by the unprecedented rains out West and the deadly snowstorms up North this winter, we suspect that already-established migration trends from those locations into the Southeast will gain momentum in 2023. Time and time again when we interview people who have moved to this area, we hear how the Lowcountry is distinctive, given its moderate seasonal changes, its year-round outdoor offerings, and predictable climate. If the Southeast is the primary target for buyers this year, we believe the expanding Lowcountry is in the crosshairs. Workforce Housing. Due to inflation, rising interest rates, skyrocketing property values, and long-term rental rates over the past few years, housing affordability in the

Lowcountry is a real problem. In a market area so dependent upon tourism, the continued shortage of available employees is already having a negative impact on many businesses, resulting in limited hours/days of operation, services, etc.

The Lowcountry is having to play “catchup” on this issue as it works to create and facilitate near and long-term solutions, and we’ll all be watching closely to see what steps may unfold, including the news in early 2023 about some exciting office-to-residential conversion opportunities on the south end of Hilton Head Island!

Rent vs. Buy. This long-lived debate that most of us have faced at one time or another, especially at the time of considering the purchase of your first home, is quite challenging at the moment. The “perfect storm” is at hand with high interest rates, high rental rates, and high resale values,

making the decision a tough one no matter what.

Expanded lending options have emerged over the past year, which are helping tip the scale toward buying for those who qualify and who would rather see their monthly payments work toward their own equity growth. Until/unless rental rates settle, we expect to see the pendulum swing toward buying vs. renting. With some 55 million people currently comprising the 28- to 38-year-old demographic, we know the rent vs. buy debate is a lively one across the country.

If you missed it, you can read through the complete article of 2023 Steering Factors in the Annual Market Analysis at CollinsGroupRealty.com/2023-2.

Chip Collins is the broker-owner of Collins Group Realty. chip@collinsgrouprealty. com or collinsgrouprealty.com

FAMILY from page 42A

acoustic piano and add electronics. The second way is to start with a digital piano (a high-level keyboard) and add acoustic parts to it.

Let’s look at the first way. A hybrid acoustic piano starts with the full meaning of a “real” piano and adds digital components. With the touch of a button and a slide of the pedal, a fully acoustic piano becomes fully digital – Haydn’s instrument becomes Herbie Hancock’s.

Immediately at your fingertips are found a full and almost unimaginable range of sounds, midi capabilities, recording capabilities, and Bluetooth.

Additionally, “there’s an App for that,” as they say! And of course, the “anytime” part of our example means that your acoustic piano becomes silent with the use of headphones, but doesn’t lose the touch or feel of the acoustic piano that it is.

The second way a hybrid piano is constructed is in the reverse approach. A manufacturer will take one of its high-level keyboard models and incorporate acoustic materials. This means wooden parts.

The wood on a piano makes the sound resonate, reverberate, “sing,” if you will, and transfers the energy of the keys to the sound of the notes.

A hybrid digital piano might have components like a wooden soundboard, wooden keys, and wooden hammers, to enrich the tone of the music and the touch of the action.

The keyboard will, of course, have its inherent ability for a myriad of sounds, recording capabilities, streaming capabilities, and programs. And, of course, headphones for that “anytime” capability.

Hybrids aren’t just automobiles, they’re instruments, too! And while they couldn’t order any late-night pizza for you (yet), they could indeed hook into your TV sound system and stereo broadcast your favorite movie’s soundtrack while you watch a midnight flick.

Jennifer Herrin is the co-owner of Kawai Piano Gallery by Herrin in Bluffton. jennifer@kpgbyherrin.com or kawaipianogallerybyherrin.com

Before taking the boat out, make sure it’s ready to go

By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR

Almost daily I get calls from angler friends of mine who are going stir crazy because they just want to wet a line but can’t get out there.

Believe me when I say I get it, but as much as I want to go, there is a list of things I need to do before I drop a stack of cash on gas on an inshore or offshore trip.

Out on the water is not the place to realize that several pre-season boat tasks were put on the back burner. Ignore those chores, and that long-awaited trip ends up being a disaster.

One thing I know is outboards hate to sit idle over the winter months. Even when I know I am not going to fish for a month or two, I religiously hook up my engine flusher to a hose, start my outboard and let it run for 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a bit of a pain in the rear but in the long run it will prevent a ton of problems and money.

Another engine saver is to change the oil in the foot of your outboard before you start fishing hot and heavy. Sitting idle in cold weather can break down the oil in the lower unit on your outboard. If you are even mildly mechanically minded, you can change that oil yourself in less than 30 minutes.

Though not absolutely necessary, I remove the engine cowling and lightly spray the engine with Corrosion X, and at the same time spray the panel where all the electrical

connections are located.

Salt air can do a number on electrical connections and Corrosion X is great stuff and can be found at most tackle shops or marinas.

Even after these few things are done, there is no point heading out if you haven’t addressed your rod, reel and tackle box. One thing I see over and over again that drives me nuts is how so many fishermen simply throw their rods and reels in a corner after their last use.

Every time I come in, I tighten the drag down and lightly spray down both the rod and reel with fresh water and mist them with Penn Rod & Reel Cleaner.

Once that is done, then comes the most important part. Before putting the reel away,

loosen the drag almost all the way. It doesn’t matter if it is a spinning reel or an open face offshore reel. If you leave the drag tight, it wears down the two plates and instead of a silky-smooth drag it becomes jerky or, even worse, becomes frozen.

Imagine going through all the expense to go fishing and hooking into the fish of a lifetime – but that fight is over in seconds because you didn’t back off the drag the last time you put up that reel.

Now is also the time to change out the line on your reels. I may fish more than most but on average I swap out line on my most-used reels five or six times a year. On my inshore spinning reels, I prefer 30-pound test braid, and for my conventional offshore reels I prefer 40- to 60-pound test monofilament,

depending on the size of the reel.

As for leader material, this is where I don’t skimp. More expensive than monofilament, fluorocarbon leader is worth the extra money. For my inshore spinning rods, 20-pound test fluorocarbon will handle about any fish that swims in our inshore waters. When bottom fishing offshore or cobia fishing, my leader choice is 50- to 60-pound test fluorocarbon.

To help you face fluorocarbon sticker shock, understand that you get a lot of bang for the buck because, in most cases, all you need is a relatively short leader. One spool goes a long way.

Lastly if you run 20 to 50 miles out regularly, and especially if you have only one engine, there’s one gadget might just save your life one day. The ocean can change faces in the blink of an eye, an engine and all your electronics can quit – leaving you feeling pretty darn lonely in that big ocean. That is where a small handheld Spot X two-way satellite messenger allows to you to text and receive texts no matter how far away from shore you are.

An added bonus is when you text, it displays your latitude and longitude to whomever you text. Costing around $250, it is a small price to pay if it saves your life.

Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud. com

Grady-White SeaHunt Parker Hurricane G3 Four Winns Carolina Skiff

Boat prep doesn’t require much effort if you keep up with it. Keep your tools, fluids and line in stock to save time cleaning.

26th annual Wingfest set for March 18 at Celebration Park

Hilton Head Wingfest, presented by the Island Recreation Association, is back again for the 26th year. The popular event will be held March 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lowcountry Celebration Park, on the island’s south end of Pope Avenue.

Saturday’s event will feature 20 to 25 local restaurants cooking their best wings. More than 6,500 pounds of chicken wings will be served at the fun-filled, family-friendly festive atmo-

sphere.

A number of activities will be available, such as a kid’s zone, rock climbing wall and bungee jump. Cheer on or participate in the Kid’s Wing Bobbing Competition or Adult Wing Eating Contest. Vote for your favorite wing and watch the winner be crowned at 4:15 p.m.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Crosstown Traffic, 11 a.m.-noon, and 2-3 p.m.; True Gentlemen, noon to

2 p.m.; and The Naked Karate Girls, 3-5 p.m.

The Wing Eating Contest will take place at 2 p.m. and Kids Wing Bobbing will kick off at 2:50 p.m.

Will last year Judge’s favorites One Hot Mamma’s and People’s Choice Coconutz take top prize again? Come find out!

Admission is $10 with children under 11 are free. For more information, visit hiltonheadwingfest.com.

Orchid Paulmeier of One Hot Mama’s won last year’s Wingfest Judge’s trophy.

SPORTS CARDS WANTED: Vesci Sports Cards, specializing in pre-1972 baseball, football and basketball cards. Looking for personal collections. Cash paid for cards. Hilton Head resident Jim Vesci 215-266-2975 jdvescisr@gmail.com

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

Go-Go Batteries

CLASSIFIEDS

SEEKING AN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT in the Hilton Head office of a faith community. Work 20-24 hours/week divided over 3 to 4 days. Must know Microsoft Word and Excel. Salary is negotiable. Contact janiceHfradkin@gmail.com.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

YOUR AD HERE CAN REACH 25,000 households and businesses from Moss Creek to Sun City to Callawassie Island. Promote services, sell goods, announce a yard sale, buy a house, sell a house, find a job, find employees, ask for help, offer help! Ads starting at $28 for 40 words. 843-757-9507.

Ruben 843-295-2291

Mark 843-683-7881

March 1-April 2

Second annual Beaufort County High School Regional Art Competition, USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret St., Beaufort. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. March 1. uscbcenterfor thearts.com or 843-521-4145

March 2-5

“Guys and Dolls Jr.,” by Main Stage Community Theatre at Seahawk Cultural Center at Hilton Head High School, 70 Wilborn Rd., Hilton Head Island. 7 p.m. March 2, 3 and 4, and a 2 p.m. matinee March 5. Tickets $25 adults, $15 students, $5 for 8 and under. Mainstagecommunitytheatre.org or 843-689-6246.

March 3

“Mitchelville” focus group, 1 p.m. at Hilton Head Public Library, 11 Beach City Road. Panel discussion in advance of world premiere of Aurin Squire’s play. Discussion with Hilton Head native islanders, members of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, with production team of Lean Enemble. Free and open to public.

March 3-5

March Forth, commemorating passing of Pat Conroy on March 4, 2016, with programs on themes of his writing and teaching, including social justice inclusivity, conservation, etc. Schedule at patconroyliterarycenter.org.

Through March 5

Student Art Exhibit at Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA), 8 Church St. Bluffton. Featuring student work from three Bluffton high schools. sobagallery.com or 843-757-6586

March 7-April 8

“Art + Quilt = Art,” exhibit by Art Quilters of the Lowcountry at Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. March 8. Free and open to public. artleaguehhi.org or 843-681-5060

March 16-18, 23-25

“Mitchelville,” original play, world premiere, 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Talkbacks March 17, 19, 24, 26. Tickets at leanensemble.org or 843-715-6676.

March 17-18, 24-26

“Young Frankenstein,” Sun City Community Theatre, 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2:30 p.m. matinee Sunday. Tickets $23 SCCT members, $26 general admission at suncitytheatre. org or Magnolia Hall, Magnolia Hall Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 9-11 a.m., or by calling 843-645-2700.

March 18

Country & Cocktails, 5:30 p.m. cocktails, 7 p.m. auction, 8 p.m. concert by Two Way Crossing. Themed event with jeans and boots. Benefit for and at Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. Tickets starting at $175 through Feb. 24. Artshhi.com or 843-868-3945, ext. 305

March 18

Story, Song & Poetry, an Evening of Words and Music, 7 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. Featuring Bill Newby, with contributions by others. Free, donations welcomed. UULowcountry.org

March 23-25

“All Shook Up,” by Hilton Head Christian Academy Theatre Department, 7 p.m., plus matinee at 2 p.m. March 25. Tickets $12 students and seniors, $18 adults. hhco.org

March 23-April 8

Savannah Music Festival, 34th season, cross-cultural musical event, with artists in classical, contemporary, Americana, blues, jazz, funk, pop fusion and more. Tickets available now, starting at $31, for various venues around Savannah. Savannahmusicfestival.org or 912-525-5050.

March 31

“A Mozart Celebration,” Hilton Head Choral Society’s annual Spring Concert, 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head. Accompanied by members of Charleston Southern University Music Department faculty and alumni. Tickets at hiltonheadchoralsociety. org, 843-341-3818 or tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.

April 1-May 6

Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show, featuring student art from Bluffton schools, on exhibit at Bluffton Library. People’s Choice voting through April 29. Artist Awards reception May 4.

April 15

“Happy Together,” cabaret and dinner show by the Sun Tones, women’s four-part a cappella chorus, at Pinckney Hall in Sun City. All of your favorites, sung in Barbershop style. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets $35 per person, available at Magnolia Hall Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 9-11 a.m. or by phone at 540-842-5709. Cash or check only.

Inspired by Elvis, ‘All Shook Up’ takes stage March 23-25

MAR 2-3

IRISH TENOR OF THE YEAR

“DANNY BOY”

As the most sought-after Irish Tenor of his generation, Emmet has performed in over 80 cities across the US and Canada, recently making a sell-out solo concert debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall to rave reviews. In 2017, he signed a major recording deal with Sony Music and his debut Irish Album Emmet Cahill’s ‘Ireland‘ went straight to #1 on the World Music Billboard charts.

“IRISH EYES ARE SMILING”

“HOW GREAT THOU ART”

“BRING HIM HOME”

“MUSIC OF THE NIGHT”

AMONG MANY MORE

Hilton Head Christian Academy’s (HHCA) award-winning theater department will present “All Shook Up,” inspired by the songs of Elvis Presley and based on the book by Joe Dipietro, March 23-25 at the school’s Performing Arts Center in Bluffton. Tickets will be on sale at hhca.org.

Loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” “All Shook Up” follows a small Midwestern town that is thrown into a frenzy with the arrival of Chad (Christian Becker), a good-looking, motorcycle-riding roustabout, who rides from town to town with a guitar on his back, blue suede shoes on his feet, and a song in his heart.

Repressed by their conservative mayor, the town comes alive again under Chad’s influence. Lovers meet in one zany night that will change the town forever. “All Shook Up” is a rocking, heartwarming tale about following dreams, opening up to love, and the power of music.

Directed by HHCA Theater Director

Michelle McElroy Cox, with musical direction by Cynthia Cullen and choreography by Jamal Edwards, the cast is led by senior Christian Becker (Chad) and junior Millie Gilbreath (Natalie). It also features 34 HHCA 8th-12th grade cast members, including Briana Williams, Connor White, Audrey Atkins, Eli Taylor, Emma Kate Dalzel, Charlie Peirce, Maya Norcross, Jack Mau, and others.

“With Elvis classics like ‘Heartbreak Hotel,’ ‘Hound Dog,’ ‘Jailhouse Rock,’ and ‘Don’t Be Cruel,’ we decided to build a special thrust stage, transforming our Performing Arts Center, bringing the action even closer to the audience,” Cox said.

Showtimes are March 23, 24, and 25 at 7 p.m., with a matinee performance on March 25 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $12 for students and seniors and $18 for adults and will be available at hhca.org.

Hilton Head Christian Academy is located at 3088 Bluffton Parkway in Bluffton.

MAR 9-10

THE PREMIER TRIBUTE BAND

Revel in the songs Linda Ronstadt brought to life so beautifully, performed by the Linda Ronstadt Experience. Vocalist Tristan McIntosh (2016 American Idol finalist) takes you on an emotional ride of purity, power, and heartbreak as she soars through these songs as though they live inside her.

BE PART OF THE EXPERIENCE!

“YOU’RE NO GOOD”

“WHEN WILL I BE LOVED”

“THAT’LL BE THE DAY”

“BLUE BAYOU”

AMONG MANY MORE

Natalie (Millie Gilbreath) and Chad (Christian Becker) share a smile in a scene from “All Shook Up.”

COURTESY HILTON HEAD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Choral Society Spring Concert features works of Mozart

The Hilton Head Choral Society cordially invites the community to “A Mozart Celebration” annual spring concert on March 31 at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway.

Join this celebration of arguably the greatest musical mind in modern history –Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

On this magical evening, the Hilton Head Choral Society will be accompanied by members of the Charleston Southern University Music Department Faculty and CSU Alumni to perform Mozart’s setting of the Coronation Mass and select numbers from some of his most famous operas including the Marriage of Figaro and Cosi fan Tutte.

The crowd-pleasing orchestral pieces will consist of solos, duets, small groups, as well as full chorus participation.

Albert Einstein described Mozart’s music as a “reflection of the inner beauty of the universe.” The members of the Choral Society feel that concertgoers will definitely agree.

“We feel honored to perform these arrangements by such a prolific and influential musical composer,” said Dr. Dustin Ous-

ley, artistic director of the Choral Society. “Broadening the Mozart musical experience for our audience through the presentation

Every

of these beautiful pieces will be a treat for everyone in attendance.”

For the health and safety of all, ticket holders will be subject to any COVID-19 policy established by either Hilton Head Choral Society or First Presbyterian Church at the time of the concert.

Tickets are available online at hiltonheadchoralsociety.org. For more information or for assistance placing your ticket order, call 843-341-3818 or email tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.

Hilton Head Choral Society is open to people who love to sing and who enjoy good fellowship. The Choral Society is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Dues are charged to partially cover musical expenses. The primary source of financial support comes from ticket sales, donors, program advertisers, concert sponsors, and grants. The Hilton Head Choral Society is a member of Chorus America, a national organization promoting the art of choral singing.

Monday

Monday

Tuesday

World premiere of ‘Mitchelville’ comes to local stage

A play born on Hilton Head Island and based on the island’s long-ago history, “Mitchelville” will make its world premiere March 16 on the same island. Additional performances continue through March 26.

When a young man tries to save his Gullah family home, he dives into the history of his family lineage, the Civil War, and the first town of Black freedmen in America.

“Mitchelville” is a story about learning from the past, saving for the future, and keeping a tradition going.

Written by Aurin Squire (television’s “Evil,” “The Good Fight,” “This is Us”) and directed by Cezar Williams, “Mitchelville” features Malik Ali, Reginald Barnes, Nate Entz, Trevor Latez Hayes, Philip Kershaw, Lean Ensemble member Katherine Nora Leroy Lawson and Courtney Thomas.

The play was commissioned by Lean Ensemble Theater.

A preview performance will be held March 16 at 7:30 p.m., with additional 7:30 p.m. performances March 17-18 and 23-25, and 2 p.m. matinees March19 and 26.

Talkbacks will follow the March 17, 19, 24 and 26 performances.

Tickets are available at leanensemble. org, or by calling 843-715-6676 or emailing info@leanensemble.org.

Student, first responder and active military discounts and group rates available. Rush tickets go on sale at the box office 30 minutes prior to a performance. Visit leanensemble.org for up-to-date information.

March 7 – April 8, 2023 Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance

Opening Reception: Wednesday, March 8 • 5-7pm

Enjoy refreshments and meet the artists Free and open to the public

Presented by Art League of Hilton Head Inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina 14 Shelter Cove Lane, HHI www.ArtLeagueHHI.org 843.681.5060

Dual-language play promotes cross-cultural learning

Students of Hilton Head Island Elementary School will present “Aladdin, Dual-Language Edition” March 24-25 at the school’s Red Auditorium, 30 School Road.

This musical adventure will engage both Spanish- and English-speaking audiences while promoting the importance of cross-cultural understanding.

This bilingual adaptation of “Aladdin, the Musical” features the Academy Award-winning score from Disney’s animated classic with lyrics in both Spanish and English.

When choosing this year’s Spring Musical, Helen Ashton (director) and Michelle Cramer (musical director) were excited to discover this dual language version of “Aladdin,” which reflects the multicultural composition of their student body (which is 54% Hispanic) and highlights the importance of appreciating and respecting other cultures.

Nearly half of the 45 third, fourth, and fifth graders in the cast are either first- or second- generation Americans, representing

nine countries: Argentina, Brazil, China, Columbia, Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela. The cast is led by fifth-graders Sebastian

Zambrano-Giraldo as Aladdin, Maria Contreras Mora as Princess Jazmin, Aaron Metropolis as Jafar, and Flynn Carstens as Genie.

The description of the play gives an idea of how and why it was created: “Disney’s Aladdin Dual Language Edition features a revamped plot that creates dramatic necessity for the bilingual script. Our story begins centuries ago, when the royalty of Agrabah spoke one language, and the citizens another. Communication is impossible without translation ... which is controlled by the evil vizier, Jafar. When the rebellious princess, Jazmin, and a delinquent street rat, Aladdin, meet in the marketplace, they find something special in one another. Together, they work to transcend language barriers and, with a little magic, help create a better future for themselves and for Agrabah.”

Performances will be at 6:30 p.m. both days, and 2 p.m. March 25. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and are available at the door.

Cast members of Hilton Head Island Elementary School’s upcoming production, “Aladdin, Dual-Language Edition.”

All ages will enjoy March ‘madness’ at Coligny Plaza

The month of March is known for “madness” and what better way to enjoy it all than to participate in all that Coligny Plaza has to offer.

The madness kicks off March 10 with two shows by Jevon Daly at Coligny Theatre. Reminiscent of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” this program of performances will feature a 4 p.m. kid-centric storytelling adventure, followed by an 18-plus adults-only show at 8 p.m.

In recent years, Daly has gained tremendous in-person (from his post at Coligny Center Stage) and online popularity with kid’s songs like “Sharks Are Our Homies.”

The entertainer said that he identifies with performers like Bob Saget who gained notoriety for family-style entertainment on “Full House,” all the while harboring a sense of humor that was rarely put on display.

These two shows will provide him with the opportunity to showcase all the fun he has to offer. Tickets are available for each show at ColignyPlaza.com/events – but be careful not to get them mixed up!

Children will not be admitted to the adult

performance.

Also, annually, Coligny hosts its own March Madness competition, pitting all of its shops and restaurants against one another in a friendly, bracket-style competition encouraging fans to vote for their favorites!

Voters are asked to support their favorite merchants in each bracket level as they proceed through the Sweet 16, Elite 8, Final 4, and onto the Championship. Brackets will be updated after each round of voting. Follow the action on Coligny’s Facebook page or sign up for their email newsletters.

Make sure to follow your favorite store’s social media pages to enjoy some competitive light-hearted ribbing among the merchants. 2022 resulted in Piggly Wiggly’s stunning upset over the Frosty Frog, which held back-to-back titles in 2020 and 2021.

Who will emerge victorious in 2023? That’s up to voters to decide. With each vote, fans will be entered to win a $250 gift card to anywhere in Coligny.

Voting begins the third week in March. Learn more, and play along, at ColignyPlaza. com/Events.

Jevon Daly performs his popular kid-centric music extravaganza March 10 as part of March Madness at Coligny Plaza.

Transylvania comes to life in zany ‘Young Frankenstein’

“Young Frankenstein” is a rollicking comedy with a barnstorming parody of songs such as “Putt on the Ritz,” “Roll in the Hay” and “He Vas My Boyfriend.” Sun City Community Theatre brings this fun production to the stage March 17-26.

The music is memorable with some songs being entire cast numbers and orchestra conducted by Art Hanson, directed by Eileen Waite, produced by Carolin Collins and choreographed by Hinda Klinghoffer and Patricia Beers.

Company members will be “Puttin on the Ritz” with this adaptation of the highly successful 1974 film of the same name. A cast of 27 will perform this musical and pay tribute to this longstanding classic.

The production adaptation is set in Transylvania and follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, played by Robert Adams, to Transylvania to explore the laboratory he has inherited from his late grandfather. Rumor has it that outrageous experiments – to bring the dead back to life – were performed

there.

He is soon joined by his fiancé, Elizabeth, played by Laurel Murray, who gives him a loveless sendoff wishing him well; his inept assistant, Igor, who assists only himself, played by Jay Leonardi; Inga, a yodeling lab

assistant with a degree in science, played by Mary Ellen Beckman; Frau Blucher, the girlfriend of Dr. Frankenstein’s grandfather, played by Carol Dines; and the “Monster,” who hides from people and acquires human characteristics, played by Mike Morris.

The production take place at Magnolia Hall, 118 Sun City Lane in Sun City. There will be five performances, at 7 p.m. on March 17, 18, 24 and 25, and 2:30 p.m. matinee on March 26. Tickets are $23 for Sun City Community Theatre members and $26 for general admission.

Tickets may be ordered online at suncitytheatre.org or at the Magnolia Hall Box office, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, between 9am-11am or by calling 843-6452700 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Experience this outstanding musical comedy. This show has all the panache of the screen sensation with a little extra theatrical flair. Young Frankenstein is scientifically proven to be monstrously good entertainment!

The Sun City Community Theatre was established as a nonprofit club within Sun City Hilton Head Association in 1999 and is open to the public.

The cast of “Young Frankenstein” includes, from left, Jay Leonardi (Igor), Robert Adams (Dr. Fredrick Frankenstein), Mike Morris (Monster), and Laurel Murray (Elizabeth), are ready to be “Puttin on the Ritz.”

EILEEN WAITE

Mother and son duo enjoy time together while dancing

By Sandro Virag

Susan Brock began dancing in 2008 at a ballroom in Charleston. As she became more involved, she enjoyed attending the dance parties but couldn’t always find a babysitter. So her son Mitchell would attend the dance parties from time to time, and eventually attended all of Susan’s performances over the next 13 years.

Mitchell was a shy kid, and didn’t have a lot of confidence, so when Susan offered him dance lessons he said “no.” He had other hobbies anyway – golf, computer programming, and even took karate at one point.

In 2019 they moved to Bluffton and Susan picked up ballroom dancing again after a few years off. When Mitchell finished college, he was back in Bluffton and looking for something else to do besides his own business – creating 3D digital models and game assets.

Susan invited him to attend one of her private lessons and that’s when Mitchell re-

alized this was something he now wanted to try. Mitchell always felt he could move well and picked up things easily, so they started attending the group dance class together.

Mitchell and Susan had always done a lot together and refer to each other as “best friends,” so dancing together was comfort-

14th Hilton Head Island

SATURDAY, MAY 27, 2023 • 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. & SUNDAY, MAY 28, 2023 • 10 A.M. - 4 P.M.

Calling all artists who are interested in showcasing their unique work at our Hilton Head Island Art Festival! We will be featuring a wide selection of beautiful art including pottery, glass, wood, jewelry, photography, etc. Guests can enjoy a weekend experience with fine art, food, music & shopping!

For applications & information, call 843-785-6424, visit: HiltonHeadArtFestival.com or NashGallery.com

able right from the start and they continue to learn about each other in different ways. They focus together on learning steps and patterns and work hard on creating signals with each other so Mitchell can become a strong lead. Even though Susan has been dancing for years, Mitchell has wasted no

time in catching up, as Susan will take the time to repeat steps until Mitchell has mastered them.

You never know at what point in your life something like dancing will take hold. And even if you don’t take it to a high level, the experience will create forever memories. It is such a different dynamic when family members dance together – for example, brother and sister, father and daughter, husband and wife.

Many of these partnerships go on to a higher level of dancing. Many national champions are family members. Dancing is a great way to reconnect, especially after a time period of going different ways. Because you have to lead, follow, listen, learn, and memorize, it’s a unique way to come back together with loved ones.

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, located in Bluffton at Seaquins Ballroom. hiltonheadballroom.com

Susan Brock and her son Mitchell take lessons and dance together regularly at Hilton Head Ballroom Studio.

CINDA SEAMON