Local Life Magazine February 2026

Unplugged Childhood

Childhood moves fast. Let your child slow down, dive deep, and discover the joy of learning in their own time.

In a world filled with screens, noise, and constant rushing, childhood can easily lose their sense of calm and purpose.

At May River Montessori, we offer children something different—a place where learning happens through hands-on exploration, extended outdoor play, meaningful work, and real human connection.

Our classrooms are intentionally designed to nurture independence, focus, and growth. Children learn not just academics, but life skills that foster curiosity, selfdiscipline, and a genuine love of learning.

Skills that last far beyond the classroom.

Spots for Fall 2026 are filling now. Reserve your child’s place today.

Love is a Beach Vacation!

Unique Family Culture

Located in lovely Sea Pines Center

the team

What is your favorite movie or book with local ties?

“Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” - LANCE

“The

“The

“The

PUBLISHER

Legend of Bagger Vance” -

“The

JEREMY

Patriot” - CHARLES

“Stars Fell on Alabama” - ASHLAN

-

“The

- ALEA

- REBECCA

“The Big Chill” - LISA “Forrest Gump” - KRISTIN

- LEAH

“Full Metal

- BRUCE

Lori Goodridge-Cribb (Local since 1986) lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lance Hanlin (Local since 2007) lance.hanlin@wearelocallife.com

ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER

Jeremy Swartz (Local since 2003) jeremy.swartz@wearelocallife.com

DESIGNER

Charles Grace (Local since 1997) charles.grace@wearelocallife.com

AUDIENCE & CONTENT DEVELOPMENT

Ashlan Saeger (Local since 2016) ashlan.saeger@wearelocallife.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Bailey Gilliam (Local since 2020) bailey.gilliam@wearelocallife.com

WRITER / CONTENT CREATOR

Alea Wilkins (Local since 2024) alea.wilkins@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Rebecca Kerns (Local since 1999) rebecca.kerns@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Kristin Ammons (Local since 2025) kristin.ammons@wearelocallife.com

PHOTO EDITOR

10, NO. 2

Lisa Staff (Local since 2003) lisa@lisastaffphoto.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS & FINANCE

Leah Ortega (Local in spirit) leah.ortega@wearelocallife.com

DISTRIBUTION & LIST STRATEGIST

Bruce Wolff (Local since 2002) info@wearelocallife.com

TRUNK SHOW FEBRUARY 11 & 12 10:00 UNTIL 5:00 LOCAL Life is published monthly by Momentum Media Group, Inc. All contents are copyrighted by Momentum Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or advertising information, call 843-802-2258. Publisher is not responsible for claims and contents of advertisements. Product submissions should be mailed. LOCAL Life is not required to use your submission in any manner, and whether anything from your submission is included in our magazine is in our sole discretion.

“The Prince of Tides. My niece Kiki played the young Savannah” - LORI 800 Main Street Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926 843-802-2258 + LocalLifeSC.com PROUD

Lights, Camera, Lowcountry

This issue brings the Lowcountry’s cinematic story into focus, exploring the places, people and moments that have made our region a natural fit for the screen. You’ll find iconic filming locations, local stories from behind the scenes and a look at the history and real-life events that inspired memorable films. We also lean into the fun, with ideas for home viewing, movie-inspired cocktails and more. Cue the opening shot. The location needs no introduction.

Reel places

Local homes and landmarks that stole the scene

44

Run, Forrest, run

The local people and places that helped shape Forrest Gump

118

Midnight in Savannah

The story that changed how the world saw the Hostess City

142 26 28 114 124

Press play

Tech upgrades to elevate your next movie night

Patriots and tyrants

The South Carolina figures and events that inspired The Patriot

Built for the shot

SCAD’s backlot and the making of movie magic

Dinner and a movie

A cinematic celebration of food in film history

166

Wine, Interrupted

How merlot went

Sideways in 2004

Two teams worked together to create a Palmetto Bluff home that’s equal parts comfort and character.

Reel to real

A cinematic journey through the Lowcountry’s most memorable movie moments, landmarks and legends

STAR POWER Publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb strikes a pose in her kitchen, the set of her new online cooking series, From Scratch. Turn to page 160 for this month’s creation, then watch the full video on LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel.

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Don’t miss an issue of LOCAL Life. Scan this QR code to subscribe to the upscale lifestyle magazine of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and beyond.

yYou don’t have to travel far to find movie magic. Much of it has been hiding in plain sight, woven into the streets, shorelines and familiar corners of the Lowcountry. From major Hollywood productions to made-forTV favorites, this region has long had a way of stepping into the spotlight.

What draws filmmakers here is a rare mix of landscape, history and atmosphere. Tidal marshes, mossdraped oak trees and glimmering waterways create a natural stage that feels both cinematic and grounded. Stately homes, quiet streets and working waterfronts slip easily between eras, while shifting light and coastal weather add depth and mood that can’t be replicated on a set.

In these pages, we explore the places where movie magic happened, from iconic filming locations in Beaufort, Savannah and Hilton Head Island to lesser-known corners of Beaufort, Jasper and Chatham counties that also played their part. You’ll meet locals who found themselves in front of the camera, learn about real people whose lives inspired unforgettable films and get a behind-the-scenes look at why this region continues to draw storytellers year after year.

We also lean into the fun of watching it all unfold. You’ll find ideas for creating the ultimate home theater, a look at local history that made the leap to the screen and a few movie-inspired cocktails to enhance your next viewing night. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite or discovering something new, this issue celebrates the way film brings people, places and stories together.

So dim the lights, get comfortable, and press play. The Lowcountry is ready for its closeup.

LORI GOODRIDGE-CRIBB PUBLISHER lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com

PUB NOTES

FROM EXTRA TO EXTRA SPECIAL Hollywood has a way of showing up when you least expect it. Back in the late ’80s, I found myself on a movie set right here in Harbour Town, cast as an extra in the CBS made-for-TV film Nightwalk. My big moment? Walking around a corner on cue. I earned $25, shared the set with Robert Urich and walked away with a memory I still smile about. That brush with movie magic felt even closer a few years later when my niece, Kiki Runyan (now Kiki Patsch), spent a summer filming The Prince of Tides alongside Barbra Streisand and Nick Nolte. It was one of those moments that made Hollywood feel surprisingly close to home.

READY FOR OUR CLOSEUP South Carolina’s film industry looks set to grow as lawmakers recently lowered the minimum spending threshold for tax rebates from $1 million to $250,000 in July, making more projects eligible for a 25% rebate. Productions now need only hit the $250,000 mark and include at least one South Carolina producer to qualify, a change that’s already sparked more location interest and scouting statewide. Industry insiders say word is spreading fast. Lawmakers are expected to revisit legislation in 2026 that would boost the annual cap on tax incentives from $10 million to $30 million, potentially drawing even more movie and TV work to the state.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Local woodworking legend Fred “Freddy Spaghetti” Spadafora, 82, passed away peacefully Dec. 19 at his home in Bluffton. When LOCAL Life launched in 2017, Fred and his daughter, Michelle, crafted the magazine’s distinctive wooden display stands, which are still in use today at hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other high-end distribution points across the Lowcountry. Each stand was made from reclaimed wood salvaged after Hurricane Matthew and took roughly 2 1/2 hours to build. It’s a legacy you can still see, touch and appreciate every time you pick up a copy.

FASHION FIND Have you seen the LOCAL Life Jeep around town? This month we rolled up next to JeanPierre Klifa and one of his clients, Valerie Palay, at the Coligny Plaza location. The women’s clothing store offers a luxurious line of garments and accessories.

contributors

MEET LOCAL CREATIVES BEHIND THE SCENES

James Jolly Writer

FUN FACTS: Senior director of Marketing & Communications at USCB; I was born in England and spent much of my childhood in Nepal and Morocco. FOR THIS ISSUE: Preserving a legacy, with Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe HOMETOWN: Vienna, Virginia CURRENT HOME: Bluffton WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? The coastal environment, from the salt marshes and swamps to the beaches and forests. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT YOUR HOMETOWN? Its proximity to Washington, D.C.’s museums, galleries and cool urban neighborhoods. FAVORITE LOCAL PLACES: Fish Haul Beach, Hunting Island, Pinckney Island, USCB’s Pritchards Island, Alljoy Donut Co., Okan Bluffton, Sliders … there’s a lot. HOBBIES: Discovering new favorite local places, reading, travel, hiking, sailing WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? ‘80s and ‘90s alternative: REM, Johnny Cash, bebop jazz, the BBC and NPR. BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED: Don’t forget to laugh. FAVORITE MOVIE WITH LOCAL TIES: The Great Santini. I first saw it as a kid, and it just stuck with me and was my introduction to Pat Conroy’s work. IF YOUR LIFE WERE A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE TITLE BE? From Hedgerows to Palmettos: A Surprising Journey

Suzanne Barton Writer

FUN FACTS: General manager of the retail division at The Green Thumb. Was the co-captain of the Wednesday ladies sailing team in Cold Spring Harbor, New York. My father taught me to sail our boat at an early age. Thus began my love and respect for the oceans and waterways. FOR THIS ISSUE: Trowel Talk HOMETOWN: Cold Spring Harbor, New York CURRENT HOME: Hilton Head Island WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? The climate, beaches, quality of life and the way everyone comes together to create a sense of community. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT YOUR HOMETOWN? Friends FAVORITE LOCAL PLACES: Beaches! Each one has a unique vibe: peaceful, active, shell seeking or playful. We have them all here. HOBBIES: Cooking, gardening, reading WHAT ARE YOU READING? The Black Wolf by Louise Penny CURRENT OBSESSIONS: Wordle, quote and octordle FAVORITE MOVIE WITH LOCAL TIES: Forrest Gump. It never fails to make me laugh and cry. A classic with a Southern sensibility running in the background and a great soundtrack.

FUN FACTS: Electronics technician. I am also left-handed. FOR THIS ISSUE: Local art, His Dudeness. I had been inspired to paint the picture every time I watched The Big Lebowski HOMETOWN: Des Moines, Iowa CURRENT HOME: North Charleston WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? The peppery live oak scent. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT YOUR HOMETOWN? Being a child without a care in the world. FAVORITE LOCAL PLACES: I absolutely love the boneyard at Hunting Island. HOBBIES: Writing songs, singing, writing short stories and poetry, painting and building things. WHAT ARE YOU EATING? Rotel WHAT ARE YOU DRINKING? Diet caffeine-free cola WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? Astrud Gilberto WHAT ARE YOU READING? Scripture CURRENT OBSESSION: My chihuahua, Buddy BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED: Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its mold. FAVORITE MOVIE WITH LOCAL TIES: Forrest Gump. Who doesn't like that? IF YOUR LIFE WERE A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE TITLE BE? You're not what you think you are, but what you think, you are!

Others who helped spotlight the Lowcountry’s cinematic side ...

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe + Carrie Brookshire + Arno Dimmling + Chris Klonowski

Gwen Callas-Miller + Jeanne Paddison + James Quine + Mary Alice Tartler + Eddie Tucker + Elizabeth Turner

WRITERS Suzanne Barton + Daisy Dow + Becca Edwards + Denise Friday + Audrey Geib Barry Kaufman + Mackenzie Lionberger + Carolyn Males + Chrissy Mozeleski

Margaret Pearman + Michaela Satterfield Roberts + Richard Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Castillo + Marcia Cornell + Jean Meaney Wheatly

Lowcountry Wedding: Planning a local wedding? Our guide has everything you need. Explore the digital issue, browse top local vendors, or request a complimentary copy at weddings.locallifesc.com

1 Five local outdoor experiences that shine in winter

2 Major projects transforming the Lowcountry in 2026

3

Tips for building the ultimate local seacuterie board

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Want more LOCAL Life? Have our three newsletters delivered to your inbox each month. The Dish Best local bites for the weekend

The Buzz LOCAL Life’s latest must-reads

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About the cover

Beaufort’s antebellum homes offer a tangible connection to the past, but few are as instantly recognizable as Tidalholm. Often called “The Big Chill House,” the iconic mansion gained lasting fame as the primary setting for the film The Big Chill. The house had already made its movie screen debut in The Great Santini in 1979, and director Lawrence Kasdan was so taken with the property that he chose it again for his 1983 classic. Located in Beaufort’s storied Point neighborhood, the home remains a symbol of the town’s architectural beauty and film history. The image was captured by photographer James Quine.

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local blend

WORD ON THE STREET + COMMUNITY TIDBITS + FAST FACTS + LOCAL LANDMARKS

Where film meets history

tFive local landmarks that helped bring some of Hollywood’s most memorable stories to life

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

The Lowcountry has long drawn filmmakers for more than its good looks. Its quiet streets, tidal waterways, historic homes and centuries-old landmarks carry stories that feel ready-made for the screen. These places do more than serve as backdrops. They shape mood, define character and ground each story in a strong sense of place. It’s a landscape where history and atmosphere do much of the storytelling themselves. From grand mansions to the familiar swing bridge, these five locations have played starring roles in films that brought the Lowcountry to audiences around the world.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

MERCER-WILLIAMS HOUSE Constructed in the late 1860s for Confederate Gen. Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of songwriter Johnny Mercer, the Mercer-Williams House is one of Savannah’s most storied landmarks. The Italianate mansion gained international attention with the publication of the 1994 book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and its 1997 film adaptation directed by Clint Eastwood. Once the home of antiques dealer Jim Williams, the house became central to the story’s intrigue, blending true crime, Southern eccentricity and Savannah society. Today the meticulously preserved home operates as a museum offering daily tours. See it: 429 Bull St., Savannah

The Prince of Tides

LEWIS REEVE SAMS HOUSE Built in the mid-1800s, this historic mansion is one of Beaufort’s finest examples of the “Beaufort Style,” a regional interpretation of Greek Revival architecture defined by its T-shaped floor plan, generous porches and raised rooflines. Designed to catch cooling river breezes, the home’s elevated setting along Bay Street reflects both the elegance and practicality of its era. During the Civil War, the house served as Hospital No. 14 and later as headquarters for Union Gen. Rufus Saxton. More than a century later, it found a new role on screen as the home of Tom Wingo’s mother in the 1991 film The Prince of Tides, starring Nick Nolte and Barbra Streisand. Today the house remains a private residence, occasionally opening for special events and tours. See it: 601 Bay St., Beaufort

The Big Chill

TIDALHOLM Built in 1853 by Edgar Fripp, Tidalholm stands as one of Beaufort’s most recognizable antebellum homes. Known locally as “The Big Chill House,” it began as a summer retreat from the heat and mosquitoes of nearby St. Helena Island before serving as a Union hospital during the Civil War. Over the years, the house passed through several owners. Hollywood arrived in 1979, when Tidalholm appeared in The Great Santini, starring Robert Duvall. Its gracious interiors and sweeping porches drew filmmakers back in for the 1983 film The Big Chill, where it served as the central gathering place for the film’s ensemble cast, including Tom Berenger, Glenn Close and Jeff Goldblum. Both the interior and exterior are featured prominently on screen. Today the home is a private residence for owners John and Katie Tashjian, who restored it to its former grandeur. See it: 1 Laurens St., Beaufort

Forrest Gump

RICHARD V. WOODS MEMORIAL BRIDGE One of only four operating swing bridges in South Carolina, the Richard V. Woods Memorial Bridge links downtown Beaufort with Lady’s Island. Opened in 1959 as the Lady’s Island Bridge and renamed in 1971 to honor Highway Patrol officer Richard V. Woods, the bridge earned its place in film history during the iconic 1994 film Forrest Gump. It appears as a Mississippi River crossing where Forrest pauses mid-run to answer reporters’ questions. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2019 under its original name, it remains one of Beaufort’s most photographed landmarks. See it: Downtown Beaufort to Lady’s Island

Forces of Nature

JOSEPH JOHNSON HOUSE Built in the late 1850s, the Joseph Johnson House is one of Beaufort’s most recognizable landmarks. Once used as a Union hospital during the Civil War, the Gothic Revival home later gained Hollywood attention as the wedding setting in the 1999 film Forces of Nature, starring Sandra Bullock and Ben Affleck. Often called “The Castle” for its turreted silhouette and moat-like setting along the Beaufort River, the house is also steeped in local legend, including tales of a resident jester ghost known as Gauche. Today it remains a private residence owned by jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke and her husband, John Staelin, and occasionally opens for special events. See it: 411 Craven St., Beaufort

Hear every line

Bose Smart Soundbar Ultra

Big sound without a complicated setup. This soundbar sharpens dialogue, widens the soundstage and makes action scenes feel fuller without overwhelming a living room. Ideal for movie lovers who want better audio without committing to a full surround system. bose.com. $699

Roll credits anywhere

hot tech

Upgrade movie nights with better picture, sharper sound and smarter tech

SELECTIONS BY MACKENZIE LIONBERGER

Shine bright

FlexBeam portable projector

Turn any wall into a movie screen with the FlexBeam projector. Compact and easy to move, it’s made for backyard movie nights, beach house weekends or pulling together a last-minute watch party indoors. Setup is simple, the picture is crisp, and the size makes it easy to take the show on the road. evolvedchargers.com. $160

Khomo Gear Portable Projector Screen

This portable projector screen turns any open space into an instant movie theater. It sets up in under 10 minutes and stays impressively steady, thanks to a rigid support frame that feels more permanent than portable. Lightweight materials and a folding stand make it easy to carry to the backyard, campsite or tailgate. khomogear.com. $110

Front row seats

Picture

perfect LED Backlit Movie Poster Light Box

Give your favorite films a starring role with this LED backlit movie poster display. Designed to make artwork pop, it’s easy to install and even easier to swap posters when your mood changes. Available in multiple sizes, it’s a sharp finishing touch for home theaters, bonus rooms or hallways that deserve a little drama. htmart.com. $475

Valencia Piacenza Home Theater Seating

Bring home the comfort of a luxury cinema. The 2025 Piacenza seating pairs plush design with thoughtful tech touches like LED cupholders, base lighting and motorized headrests. Settle in, recline and stay awhile. These seats are made for long movies and longer weekends. valenciatheaterseating.com. $3,799.99

Within arm’s reach

Sobro Smart Side Table

This sleek side table does a lot of heavy lifting during movie night. Built-in refrigerated drawers keep drinks cold, while USB ports, wireless charging and Bluetooth speakers handle power and sound without extra clutter. Touch controls and soft LED lighting make it easy to use in a dark room, and the modern design blends right in beside a sofa or theater chair. sobrodesign.com.$800

Pop off Olde Midway popcorn machine

No movie night is complete without popcorn, and this vintage-inspired design brings the real thing home. Skip the microwave bags, and make hot, buttery popcorn that tastes straight out of a theater lobby. It’s a fun upgrade for family nights, game days and anytime the opening credits roll. walmart.com. $235

Step into another world

Meta Quest 3S

Turn movie night into a next-level experience with this stand-alone VR headset that doesn’t need a console or PC to work. With a powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and 128 GB of storage, it delivers smooth, immersive visuals, whether you’re catching a film on a giant virtual screen, exploring VR worlds or sharing fun experiences with friends. meta.com/quest. $249

TECH IT EASY

Movie night, upgraded

SMART TECH IDEAS THAT ADD COMFORT, CREATIVITY AND A LITTLE MAGIC AT HOME

STORY BY AUDREY GEIB

m

Movie nights with the family have always been about togetherness, but smart tech can add a little extra movie magic. From subtle lighting enhancements to creative AI tools, today’s innovations make it easier than ever to turn a simple night at home into a full cinematic experience.

THREE tools to elevate your home movies

1. To convert old classics to new tech: Kodak Reels 8mm & Super 8 Film Digitizer Those grainy family beach days on VHS or Super 8 reels deserve a fresh debut, and a few smart tools make it easy to bring them into the digital age. A multi-format video converter can turn old tapes and DVDs into crisp digital files you can store and share, while the Kodak Reels 8mm & Super 8 Film Digitizer scans film frame by frame and transforms it into modern MP4s, complete with a built-in screen so you can preview each moment as it’s revived. It’s a simple way to preserve Lowcountry memories and keep your family’s best stories in the spotlight. $419

ONE video generator

Make AI movies with Sora Take family creativity to the next level by turning ideas into short, AI-generated films with Sora. Kids can dream up characters, settings or silly storylines, and Sora brings them to life in cinematic detail, no filming or special equipment required. It’s a fun way to create custom trailers, bedtime-story adaptations or “what if?” versions of favorite movies. The results become instant additions to your movie-night watch party.

FIVE unexpected ways to improve movie night

1. Use ambient lighting to elevate the movie-viewing space A little glow goes a long way. Adding soft, indirect light behind the TV or around your viewing area instantly makes movie night feel more cinematic, no renovation required. LED strips placed behind the screen reduce eye strain and create a subtle halo effect that pulls you into the picture, while light bars or low-light lamps can shift the room’s mood from cozy to dramatic with a quick tap of an app. It’s an easy upgrade that makes every film feel a bit more like a theater experience at home.

2. Make the sound better: Røde lav mics

If you’re filming your own family videos or capturing memorable moments, upgrading the audio makes a huge difference. Clip-on Røde lavalier mics plug right into a phone or camera and capture clear, crisp dialogue without background noise. It’s an easy, affordable way to give home videos a more professional feel. $186

3. Small but mighty camera: Osmo Pocket 3 For families who love capturing professional-looking moments, the Osmo Pocket 3 is a tiny powerhouse. This pocket-sized camera delivers smooth, cinematic footage, thanks to its built-in gimbal stabilization, making even quick clips of pets, kids or classic family chaos look polished. Its portability means you can pull it out anytime inspiration hits, and the quality is good enough to turn spontaneous moments into memory reels you’ll actually want to keep. $529

2. Add AI-powered “scene mode” for accessibility and kids Modern TVs and streaming devices now use AI to balance audio so you can hear what’s happening without constant volume adjustments. Features like dialogue boost, speech clarity and night mode lift voices while softening loud effects, making intense scenes easier on young viewers and more comfortable for anyone sensitive to sudden noise. It’s a small setting that creates a smoother, calmer movie night, especially for families with little ones.

3. Create a personalized “movie passport” Turn movie night into a family tradition by keeping a digital or printable “movie passport” that logs every film you watch together. Tools like Canva, Notion or simple notes apps make it easy to track titles, add star ratings, jot down inside jokes and even attach a photo from the night. Over time, it becomes a scrapbook of favorite moments, part memory book and part tradition, and gives everyone something to look forward to each week.

4. Add “smell cues” with a smart diffuser It may sound silly, but pairing scents with scenes can make movie night surprisingly immersive. A smart diffuser lets you sync gentle fragrances to the vibe — ocean notes for beachy adventures, warm vanilla for cozy classics or pine for holiday movies. It’s a subtle sensory layer that turns an ordinary viewing into a full-on atmosphere.

5. Create a random movie selection tool Give movie night a fun twist by using a random selection tool, such as a digital wheel spinner or random number generator, loaded with everyone’s must-watch list to decide the movie for the night. It takes the pressure off choosing and turns the whole process into a playful ritual the family can look forward to.

Focus on a Financial Future Worth Applauding.

There’s a lot to do in life. Through comprehensive wealth management, our team helps people focus on what matters most. We are a fiduciary partner, whose sole focus is your financial well-being — and the peace of mind that comes with it.

Booked for love

Five heartfelt reads to warm up your February

Denise Friday, a social worker at Hilton Head Island Elementary and mother of twins, finds both joy and reflection in a good book. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to lean into stories shaped by love, longing and second chances.

HUSBANDS AND LOVERS BY BEATRIZ WILLIAMS

I really enjoyed this book so much. It is a duel-timeline that reveals its connection through a family heirloom. In early 1950’s Cairo, Egypt, Hannah is walking a dangerous line of privilege and espionage. On Cape Cod, present day, Mallory and her sister are brainstorming on a kidney match for Mallory’s 13 year-old son, Sam. This may entail contacting his father, who does not know he exists. Part historical fiction and part family drama packed with secrets. A real page-turner.

THE HYPNOTIST'S LOVE STORY BY LIANE MORIARTY

Ellen O'Farrell, a professional hypnotherapist, has a nice life. She enjoys her job and lives on the beach, thanks to an inherited home from her grandparents. Her love life needs work, but all that may change when she meets handsome Patrick. Her interest in him rises when she learns he has a stalker. She finds this very interesting and exciting. What she does not know is, she is one of her clients. Moriarty’s books combine laugh out loud humor with serious subjects, and the results are a delight to read.

ONE TRUE LOVES BY TYLOR JENKINS REID

Emma And Jesse are high school sweethearts when they get married in their 20s. They are each other’s one true love. Tragically, Jesse disappears in a helicopter crash and Emma must move on with her life. In her 30s she finds a second chance at love with Sam, and they plan to marry. Emma is finally happy again. Miraculously, Jesse is found alive and finally returns home. Emma is now in an impossible situation of making a choice without hurting those she loves, her true loves.

THE LOVE SEASON BY ELIN HILDERBRAND

This is an older book by Hilderbrand, but it is the one that made me want to read more of her books. Newly engaged Renata is on Nantucket to meet her fiancé’s family. While there, she reaches out to Marguerite, her godmother and deceased mom’s best friend. She wants to learn more about her mom’s life, and death, which happened when Renata was 4. So begins a story that spans decades yet takes place over 24 hours. Nothing seems to go as planned, and we get a collection of lovable yet flawed characters experiencing the Island, the food, betrayals, love and friendships that is trademark Hilderbrand.

THE MATCHMAKER’S GIFT BY LYNDA COHEN LOIGMAN

Sara Glikman knows she has the gift of matchmaking. But in 1910 New York, her talent is seen as a threat to the men who practice this tradition and livelihood. In the Jewish culture only men could practice this sacred and important mission, so Sara is forced to practice in secret. Years later, Sara’s granddaughter, Abby, inherits Sara’s collection of journals recording Sara’s matches. Abby is a successful lawyer, but she is captivated by her grandmother’s promise to a stranger. Would she give up her career to follow her heart? A historical fiction that is a delight to read and will make you believe in love at first sight.

Chapter chat

LOCAL Life’s Rebecca Kerns, an avid reader, shares her take on The Villa by Rachel Hawkins in “Rebecca’s Reading Room Chat,” her video book review series. Set against the sun-drenched Italian countryside in the 1970s, the novel blends suspense and romance with Fleetwood Mac-esque rock drama and a murder at its core. Watch her review now on LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/@locallifesc

A thoughtful approach to planning, when the decisions matter most.

Whether you are enjoying retirement or thoughtfully preparing for it, the decisions you make today shape the legacy you leave tomorrow.

Life in the Lowcountry reflects a certain understanding — that the finest things are built with patience, perspective, and care. Your financial life is no different.

At Family Focus Financial Group, we work with individuals and families who value clarity over complexity, discretion over noise, and planning that reflects the life they’ve built. Our approach is personal, measured, and grounded in understanding not only your assets, but your priorities and vision for the years ahead.

We guide clients through retirement income planning, tax-efficient strategies, and legacy considerations — helping ensure wealth serves your life, your family, and the future you envision.

ANNUAL COMMUNITY MEETING

Local IQ

ACROSS

1. Name for February’s full moon, something the Lowcountry rarely sees.

5. February’s birthstone, known for its purple hue.

6. Type of pink spoonbill that starts returning in late February.

8. Future music icon inspired by Forrest Gump’s childhood dance moves.

10. February celebrations in Beaufort and Hilton Head honor this heritage.

11. Iconic Beaufort home seen in The Big Chill and The Great Santini

12. Last name of the famous actor who lived in the area for three decades.

15. Savannah cemetery featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

17. U.S. leaders celebrated on the third Monday of February.

20. Wealthy rivals of the Pogues in the TV series Outer Banks

21. First word of the hit HBO series about a SC megachurch family.

DOWN

1. Company Lieutenant Dan invests in, making Forrest and himself millionaires.

2. Name shared by Forrest Gump’s shrimp boat and the woman he loves.

4. Saint celebrated with love on February 14.

7. Zodiac sign that rules most of February.

9. Life is like a box of _____.

13. Last name of actress who played Dr. Susan Lowenstein in The Prince of Tides

14. February has 29 days in these years.

16. Star of February’s weather-predicting tradition.

18. Hilton Head’s annual February festival at Honey Horn.

19. Object that drifts to Forrest at a Savannah bus stop as he begins his story.

Official Mensa®Challenge

LOVE A CHALLENGE?

Impress your valentine with your wits. Solve this Mensa quiz!

1. Stephanie bought some small souvenirs for a Mardi Gras party. At the first store, she spent half of what she had, plus $10 for bead strings. At the second store, she bought colorful beads for half of what she had left, plus $10. On the way home, she bought some postcards with half of what she had left. She ended up with $5. How much money did Stephanie start out with?

2. What simple step can you take to make each of these groups of letters into words?

LBM VRST VLFY

3. Fill in the blanks to complete the names of four famous British writers. _ O _ R _ D _ I _ _ E _ S _ H _ _ E _ P _ _ R _ T _ _ C _ _ R _ _

4. Julian bought a large number of stamps to give as presents to two of his collecting friends. One friend received half of the stamps, plus 5. The second friend received half of what was left, plus 10. In the end, Julian kept 10 for himself. How many stamps did Julian start out with?

5. A simple substitution code has been used to conceal a "quote." Work out the code to decipher the original words.

Little Bo Peep:

QMFBTF EPOU CSJOH UIFN IPNF. J'N DPOTJEFSJOH B DBSFFS DIBOHF.

ANSWER KEY

DICKENS, SHAKESPEARE, THACKERAY 4. 90 (1/2 of 90 = 45; 45 + 5 = 50, leaving 40; 1/2 of 40 = 20; 20 + 10 = 30, leaving 10) 5. Please don't bring them home. I’m considering a career change. (Code: A = B, B = C, C = D, etc.)

1. $100 (1/2 of 100 = $50; $50 + $10 = $60; leaving $40; 1/2 of $40 = $20; $20 +$10 = $30, leaving $10; 1/2 of $10 =$5, leaving $5) 2. Add vowels (the same vowel for each word): ALABAMA, EVEREST, VILIFY 3. CONRAD,

ARE YOU READY FOR MENSA?

American Mensa is where brilliance belongs – it’s where friendships are forged for life, business connections and opportunities are made, and where brilliant minds find the chance to engage with others in an intellectually stimulating environment. Just for LocalLife

readers: Take the Mensa Practice Test for just $5! Visit americanmensa. org/mht and use offer code: Local21. Quiz © 2018 Dr. Abbie F. Salny

Answers are available on LocalLifeSC.com/Mensa Mensa provides official tests and answers to LOCAL Life as part of an exclusive license agreement. Answers are available on LocalLifeSC.com/Mensa

When it comes to the very latest cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled patient outcomes, eye care experts around the world look to the Lowcountry and the passionate eye care pioneers at Bishop Eye Center. The best of the best in superior compassionate eye care are right here in Hilton Head, Sun City, and Bluffton.

STREAMING

The hot list

What to watch, read and listen to in February

SELECTIONS BY DAISY DOW

MOVIE THEATERS

FOX Super Bowl LIX (live football) The biggest night in football returns with all the spectacle, strategy and snack-worthy drama fans expect. Whether you’re in it for the commercials, the halftime show or the game itself, the Super Bowl is the ultimate communal watch. Expect wall-to-wall coverage, pregame analysis and plenty of moments that will be debated long after the final whistle. Kickoff: 6:30 p.m., Feb. 8

PEACOCK The ’Burbs (comedy) The idea of living in “the safest neighborhood in America” is appealing to new parents Samira (Keke Palmer) and Rob (Jake Whitehall). The couple and their baby move into Rob’s childhood home, settling into the promise of a perfect life in a perfect place. When a new neighbor moves into the spooky Victorian home across the street, unease spreads through the neighborhood. Samira makes the most of her maternity leave by teaming up with fellow residents to uncover what’s really going on. Release date: Feb. 8

PRIME VIDEO 56 Days (thriller) Among the list of places to meet someone special, the supermarket ranks surprisingly high. That’s how Oliver (Avan Jogia) and Ciara (Dove Cameron) cross paths. Fifty-six days later, their relationship is apparently over when investigators discover a dead body in Oliver’s apartment. Through a series of flashbacks, the past catches up to the present, revealing how the honeymoon phase of a budding romance turned violent. Release date: Feb. 18

HULU Scrubs (comedy) The early 2000s series Scrubs followed new doctors J.D. (Zach Braff), Turk (Donald Faison) and Elliot (Sarah Chalke) as they navigated their first post-graduate residencies. Though each chose a different career path, their friendships remained steady despite hospital politics and professional pressure. More than 15 years after Sacred Heart Hospital closed its doors, viewers are invited back to see where the trio ended up. Release date: Feb. 25

Solo Mio (rom-com) Matt (Kevin James) is left at the altar. While reading his ex-fiancée’s goodbye letter inside an Italian church, dreams of a future that once felt rock-solid slip away. Matt embarks on his honeymoon alone. On a journey of mourning and acceptance, he befriends locals and fellow travelers who help him rediscover joy in the unexpected. The trip is nothing like what he imagined. Release date: Feb. 6

Wuthering Heights (drama) Inspired by Emily Brontë’s gothic love story, this adaptation by Emerald Fennell explores the complicated relationship between Catherine Earnshaw (Margot Robbie) and her adoptive brother Heathcliff (Jacob Elordi). As children, the two form a close bond despite relentless bullying from Catherine’s brother, Hindley (Ewan Mitchell). Heathcliff eventually escapes the abuse to build a future worthy of Catherine. When he returns, however, she has already moved on. Release date: Feb. 13

Cold Storage (sci-fi) Co-workers Teacake (Joe Keery) and Georgina (Naomi Williams) have no idea what’s hidden inside the self-storage facility where they work. When temperatures begin to rise, bioterrorism agent Robert (Liam Neeson) is called in. Once a decommissioned military storage site, the facility becomes ground zero for a parasitic fungus outbreak. The trio must fight off infected people and animals to keep it from spreading. Release date: Feb. 13

BOOKS & NOVELS

The End of Romance: A Novel By Lily Meyer (fiction)

As her marriage ends, Sylvie sees an opportunity to reinvent herself. Years in an emotionally draining relationship have left her questioning expectations and the role romance plays in partnership. She embraces a philosophy that romance is overrated, but despite her resolve to separate feelings from flings, Sylvie finds herself confronting love from two unexpected directions. Release date: Feb. 3

A

Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides

By Gisèle Pelicot (nonfiction) Gisèle Pelicot gained international attention in 2020 when an investigation revealed that her then-husband had drugged and sexually abused her for a decade, inviting strangers online to assault her while she slept. One of the most extensively documented cases of sexual violence on record, Pelicot’s story is shared with a clear conviction: shame belongs to the perpetrator, not the victim. Release date: Feb. 17

The Astral Library (fiction) By Kate Quinn

A novel about a librarian who discovers a secret: books can literally transport readers into the worlds they contain. When danger threatens this magic, she and an unlikely ally must flee through stories, from Jane Austen’s salons to Sherlock Holmes’s foggy streets, to protect the very idea of imagination itself. Release date: Feb. 17

ALBUMS

The Mountain

Release date: Feb. 27

Cloud 9

Megan Moroney (country)

Release date: Feb. 20

Luck … or Something Hilary Duff (pop)

Release date: Feb. 20

Psychedelic Surf Country Joel Timmons (local)

Release date: Out now

PODCASTS

Flesh and Code

Subject: Human interest

Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky Subject: Interviews

Ill-Advised by Bill Nighy Subject: Advice

Made of Savannah Podcast Subject: Entrepreneur spotlights

TRAVEL

A place at the table Community in action

For one Bluffton senior, a warm meal comes with dignity, connection and care

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK It takes a team to nourish a community. Every volunteer, donor and supporter is a driving force to making sure no one faces hunger alone. Teamwork truly feeds the soul.

Take action

Bluffton Community Kitchen runs on generosity, and there is a place for everyone who wants to help. Volunteers support meal service, senior outreach and behind-the-scenes efforts that keep neighbors fed and connected. To lend a hand, complete the volunteer form at blufftoncommunitykitchen.org, call 843-707-6785, email blufftoneats123@gmail.com or stop by the kitchen at 25 Boundary Street in Bluffton to learn more.

A WARM HUG

There's something extra comforting about a hot meal. At Bluffton Community Kitchen, every meal is made with love, care and the belief that everyone deserves nourishment and dignity.

a

At 89 years old, Antonia Lugu, known lovingly as Tony, understands what it means to care for others. For most of her life, she was the one offering comfort. As a registered nurse, she spent her career easing pain, holding hands and showing up when people needed her most. Today, as Tony receives hospice care and lives on a fixed income, that same kindness is being returned to her through Bluffton Community Kitchen

Tony has been part of Bluffton Community Kitchen’s senior program for nearly five years. Without a car and with limited resources, simple things like groceries, fresh food and basic supplies can feel out of reach. Each visit to the kitchen brings relief, nourishment and something harder to quantify: the reassurance that she is not alone. “The services they provide are basically saving my life,” Tony says.

Inside Bluffton Community Kitchen, dignity comes first. Volunteers greet each person by name. Shelves are stocked with fresh fruits, meats and staples. Hot meals are packed with care. No one is asked to explain their circumstances. Everyone is welcome. For seniors like Tony, many of whom live alone, the kitchen offers more than food. It offers community. “These seniors come because they need support and connection,” says Tillotson Gadsden, Senior Program Supervisor with Beaufort County Parks and Recreation. “Bluffton Community Kitchen allows them to stretch their fixed income and continue living a life of dignity.”

For Tony, that dignity matters deeply. After a lifetime spent serving others with compassion and selflessness, she finds joy in witnessing that same spirit reflected back, especially in the young volunteers who give their time so freely. “Seeing young people passionate about helping others brings her great joy,” Gadsden adds.

The heart of the Bluffton Community Kitchen is rooted in a much older story of resilience, foresight and care. In 1858, Caroline Hetty Martin, a free woman of color, purchased land in Bluffton in her own name, securing stability for generations to come. Nearly 170 years later, her descendants carry that legacy forward. Today, Executive Director Constance Martin Witter and Program Manager Candyce Valmont help ensure that neighbors like Tony have what they need to survive and to feel seen.

“To me, the Bluffton Community Kitchen is far more than a place that serves meals,” Gadsden says. “It is a sanctuary of compassion, dignity and hope.” For Tony, each visit is a reminder that love still shows up, whether in the form of a warm meal, a bag of groceries or a familiar smile. After a lifetime of giving, she has found her place at the table, surrounded by care, kindness and grace.

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What makes them local

adjective. lo·cal | lō-kəl

STAGE-STRUCK

Blanchard found more than a starring role in Beauty and the Beast. He met accomplished Broadway actress Meredith Inglesby, who played Babette, married her, and followed her back home to the Lowcountry four years ago.

1: characterized by or relating to position in space: having a definite spatial form or location 2: of, relating to, or characteristic of a particular place: not general or widespread: of, relating to, or applicable to part of a whole 3: primarily serving the needs of a particular limited district of a public conveyance: making all the stops on a route

Beyond the Beast

A

Broadway icon finds his footing and his future

STORY BY BECCA EDWARDS

wWhat brought Broadway’s “Beast,” aka Steve Blanchard, to the Lowcountry? His response (imagine a low-toned voice with a big, sideways grin): “Mrs. Beast was born and raised here. So she just brought me home about four years ago.” Steve and his wife, Meredith Inglesby Blanchard, have both had remarkable careers on stage and screen, along with stellar performances here in the Lowcountry. If you know Steve, you know he was meant to play the Beast. He is tall in stature. True in heart. And one of the best beings you may ever know.

Q: You have had a monstrously successful career. Can you tell us about it? A: Someone dropped out of a play in high school. I was always clowning around in English class, so I was recommended to replace the actor. I got the bug pretty quickly and began studying. I was fortunate that my small high school had an acting teacher who taught the Stanislavsky method. I studied drama at the University of Maryland, moved to New York City and got my union card on my very first audition. I made my Broadway debut in 1984 with The Three Musketeers. I’ve played a lot of “monsters” in my career: the Phantom, the Beast, the Grinch, the Creature. I suppose they’re all my favorites. They’re all similar. A beautiful soul trapped beneath a hideous facade. And along comes a Christine, a Belle, a Cindy Lou Who or a Victor Frankenstein to unlock their chains. They were fun. I do mostly film work now. I’ve got a couple of things in

in the Lowcountry

the can, and I’m working on a pilot I wrote based on my time in Beauty and the Beast

Q: You worked on the movie The Final Run, written and produced by Walter Czura. What was that experience like? A: It was a blast. What fun it was to hang with Jeff Fahey all day. We became lifelong brothers. The movie was shot entirely in Beaufort and the surrounding areas. Meredith’s transformation was incredible. She nailed it.

Q: Can you tell us about your board member role at The Arts Center? A: I’m not one for budgets and spreadsheets. But theater I know. Actors I know. Meredith and I are there to enhance the actor experience and the theater experience. To bring more people in and become more diversified. We’ve got a ton of ideas and we’re pushing for change. Patrons can contribute by telling us what they want. Don’t be shy.

Q: Tell us about your family. A: I have three daughters. All goddesses. My oldest lives in New Jersey and works in insurance. She wants nothing to do with show business. My middle daughter, also in New Jersey, is pursuing an acting career. She’s also a very talented writer. Then there’s my little life force, Wren. She sings and creates all day. She’ll be a star or a pirate, wherever the universe takes her. Or perhaps a star pirate. Who knows?

Q: What is your motto in life? A: The universe is always looking out for you. You create your own reality. What you think, you become. LL

Local business buzz

What’s new, what’s next and what’s making waves across the Lowcountry

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

A new month brings fresh momentum. February finds the Lowcountry buzzing with recent openings, announcements and activities that point toward a busy year ahead. From small local ventures to major community projects, these updates reflect the energy and creativity shaping our towns, one bold idea at a time. Here’s the latest buzz.

NOW OPEN

Second chances, well styled

Past Perfect Consignment + Makers Shop

745 Robert Smalls Parkway, Beaufort

Inside the FWDG showroom, this shop blends quality consignment furniture with handcrafted goods from Lowcountry makers. Led by designer Joan Carter, the ever-changing selection highlights sustainability, craftsmanship and timeless design.

Light, space, action

Bay Street Studios

811 Bay St., Beaufort

A new natural-light studio in downtown Beaufort offers soaring ceilings, styled sets and versatile shooting spaces. Designed for photographers and creatives, it’s built to bring big ideas to life.

Modern calm, curated

Elis Nash

905 Boundary St., Beaufort

Founded by Kim Harbin and Maleia Everidge, Elis Nash brings a minimalist mix of furniture, art and objects to Boundary Street. The space blends old and new with an emphasis on intentional, enduring design.

Play date, perfected

Palmetto Playhouse

2127 Boundary St., Beaufort

This reservation-based indoor playground gives toddlers space to climb and imagine in a clean, climate-controlled setting. Parents relax, kids play, and birthday parties are on the way.

COMING SOON

A familiar favorite returns

Food Lion Port Royal Plaza, Hilton Head

Food Lion is returning to Hilton Head with a new 41,000-square-foot store at the former Sam’s Club site. The 2026 opening marks a major step in revitalizing the long-awaited mid-island shopping center.

Built for ballers

PickUp USA Fitness

Westbury Park, Bluffton

This basketball-focused fitness center will feature organized pickup games, leagues, shooting machines and full training facilities. The groundbreaking is expected in 2026, with a 2027 opening.

FUTURE PROJECT

A home for heritage

Gullah-Geechee Historic Neighborhoods CDC

117 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head

The CDC’s future headquarters will serve as a hub for cultural preservation, community investment and neighborhood empowerment.

A healthier mindset

RETHINKING SELF-DISCIPLINE AND CREATING GOALS THAT ACTUALLY FIT YOUR LIFE

STORY BY MACKENZIE LIONBERGER

i

It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind when wellness advice fills your feed. One scroll can make it seem as if everyone else is waking up before dawn, crushing workouts and sticking to perfectly planned routines. But real life, as most of us know, rarely follows a highlight reel.

“Motivation isn’t always going to be there, but discipline and having a schedule will,” said Lexi Hartman, a fitness trainer and influencer based on Hilton Head Island.

Lexi’s content on social media tries to reflect her day-to-day fitness routine or lifestyle, rather than exaggerate it for her followers. Her content on Instagram and TikTok highlights her Pilates classes and running club and offers a glimpse into her fitness routines.

“It’s really nice to see so many people posting about all the different things that they do to care for themselves, but I do also think it’s important that we don’t need to adapt to someone else’s entire schedule just because it works for them,” said Hartman.

Expectation vs. reality

As you create your fitness goals, it’s important to find what works best for you and your busy lifestyle. What you don’t see on social media are the rest days which are an essential part of reaching any fitness goal. Your body is like a car — if it’s always running, it’s going to run out of gas.

“There are definitely a lot of unrealistic expectations that you see on social media,” Hartman said, “Even as a trainer who likes to practice what I preach, I don’t work every single day.”

While following a schedule is important to maintain balance, it's essential to take time to enjoy things that make you happy. A rule that Hartman says is important to follow is the 80/20 rule: 80 percent highly nutritional foods and 20 percent for the occasional sweet treats or salt snacks we all love.

If you’re on vacation, you don’t need to schedule those early morning workouts when you’d rather sleep in. While we might guilt-trip ourselves for indulging or skipping the gym some days, that all won’t make a difference if you have nutritious meals and participation in exercise throughout the week.

“I think it is important to give ourselves some grace and try to kind of look at the bigger picture when it comes to that stuff, which can be hard to do, but it’s definitely a mindset change that can be really helpful,” Hartman said. LL

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When Hollywood came running

THE REAL LOWCOUNTRY AND SAVANNAH LOCATIONS THAT HELPED SHAPE FORREST GUMP

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

SELLING THE SCENE

A temporary “Mississippi Welcomes You” sign was installed near Chowan Creek Bridge during the filming of Forrest Gump in 1993. While the Sea Island Parkway itself has been spruced up over the years, the view remains instantly recognizable as you pass through on the drive to Hunting, Harbor or Fripp islands.

cConsistently ranked among the greatest films of all time, Forrest Gump resonates with audiences everywhere. But here in the Lowcountry, the connection runs deeper. To locals, the movie does not just feel familiar. It looks familiar. It is familiar. Many of the people, places and everyday details that helped shape this beloved classic came straight from our own backyard. Shrimp boats, chocolates, bridges, docks, landscapes, landmarks and, yes, even a local lawn mower all played their part in bringing Forrest’s world to life.

Though the story is famously set in the fictional town of Greenbow, Alabama, locals are quick to recognize these homegrown details woven into the film. They may pass unnoticed by most viewers, but for those who know the terrain, they stand out instantly, transforming a beloved film into a reflection of home.

Guarding Your Legacy

lawn mower was supplied by Gene DeLoach, co-owner of DeLoach ACE Hardware, where it was proudly displayed for years after the movie’s release.

Beaufort takes center stage

Beaufort served as a central production hub, with familiar places transformed into cinematic stand-ins. The University of South Carolina Beaufort campus was digitally altered to appear as Gump Medical Center, while scenes of Forrest mowing the football field were filmed at the Basil Green Complex, a baseball field dressed for the role and enhanced with early CGI. Even the lawn mower had local roots. It was supplied by Beaufort hardware store owner Gene DeLoach, who proudly displayed it in his shop for years after the film’s release.

Several sets were built specifically for the production, then vanished once filming wrapped. A dock and boathouse on Coosaw Island at Coosaw Marine, owned by Stan and Marie Lawson, were transformed into the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. The Gump family home was constructed along the Combahee River near Yemassee, with Jenny’s childhood home rising nearby off Twickenham Plantation Road. Because neither structure was built to code, both were dismantled after filming, leaving behind little more than photographs, film stills and local lore.

Local involvement extended well beyond scenery. Residents filled scenes as extras, adding familiar faces and an unmistakable sense of place in the Deep South that no set dressing could replicate.

Even the film’s most quoted line came with a Lowcountry connection. The chocolates were supplied by the owners of The Chocolate Tree in Beaufort, which closed in 2025 after 45 years of satisfying the town’s sweet tooth. And despite what the line suggests, Tom Hanks knew exactly what he was going to get. He hand-selected his favorites for the box, and for years afterward, the shop sent him the same assortment annually, a small tradition born from a very big movie.

Run, Forrest, run

Forrest’s cross-country run is one of the most quoted and parodied sequences in film history, and a surprising amount of it unfolds right here in the Lowcountry. The press interview scene was filmed atop the Woods Memorial Bridge, briefly transformed with a “Mississippi River” sign to sell the illusion. Local resident Juan Singleton, now with the City of Hardeeville, appeared as the “Hannibal Reporter,” delivering the line, “Are you running for the homeless?”

In an interview with TV station WJCL, Singleton recalled that the scene took eight hours to shoot. He flubbed the line once, drawing laughter from Tom Hanks. He had his own trailer with his name on it for the day and still receives residual checks decades later.

Additional running shots were captured along the Sea Island Parkway, the long, open stretch leading toward Hunting Island State Park, chosen for its wide horizons and cinematic sense of distance. To maintain continuity, the crew filmed multiple passes from different angles, occasionally closing lanes as Hanks ran the same stretch again and again.

On screen that jog becomes a three-year, two-month, 14-day and 16-hour trek across America, condensed into seven minutes. To speed up filming, Tom Hank’s younger brother, Jim, filled in for several long-distance running shots. In the movie Forrest runs through Varnville, across the Beaufort area, all the way to Santa Monica, then back east to Maine’s Marshall Point Lighthouse. Along the way, he passes a bend on U.S. Route 221 near Linville, North Carolina, overlooking Grandfather Mountain, now known as “Forrest Gump Curve.” He jogs through downtown Flagstaff, Arizona, and finally stops in Utah’s Monument Valley.

FAMOUS CROSSING

The press interview scene was filmed on Woods Memorial Bridge, which connects downtown Beaufort with Lady’s Island. To sell the illusion, filmmakers temporarily added a “Mississippi River” sign, turning a familiar Lowcountry crossing into one of the movie’s most memorable moments.

WITH A BACKSTORY Forrest’s shrimp boat, Jenny, was a real 55-foot trawler owned by Beaufort shrimper Jimmy Stanley. Spotted by film scouts during the Beaufort Water Festival, the wide-decked boat proved ideal for filming and quickly became one of the movie’s most recognizable symbols. After production wrapped, the Jenny was sold to Planet Hollywood at Walt Disney World, where it remained on display until 2014 and is now in storage.

Life on the water

Water defined many of Forrest Gump’s most memorable moments, and the Lowcountry’s waterways were central to bringing them to life. The shrimp boat sequences, which many viewers assume were filmed in Alabama, were actually shot on Lucy Creek on Lady’s Island, where the marsh-fringed water and working docks stood in for Bayou La Batre. The dock and boathouse on the Coosaw Island side of the creek became the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company for the film, and local boats from Gay Fish Company appear on screen when Forrest names his trawler, Jenny.

For the dramatic hurricane sequence, the cast and crew moved to the Port Royal SC Ports Authority Terminal, which is no longer active. There, powerful jet engines were used to generate gale-force winds and pouring rain, transforming the industrial waterfront into the storm that would make Forrest a wealthy shrimp magnate.

So much shrimp was needed for the post-storm haul that Paramount purchased thousands of pounds from Gay Fish Company, and framed receipts from that purchase still hang at its St. Helena Island docks, a quirky piece of cinematic history rooted in real Lowcountry commerce.

Welcome to the jungle

The Lowcountry also stood in for Vietnam, providing the setting for some of the film’s most powerful scenes. Combat sequences were filmed on Hunting Island State Park and Fripp Island, where tidal creeks, dense maritime forest and marshland created a convincing jungle backdrop. On Fripp Island, areas near what is now the Ocean Creek Golf Course were used for filming, with additional mountains and foliage added later through visual effects.

Hunting Island’s lagoon appears in the unforgettable scene in which Forrest carries wounded soldiers to safety, its still water and overhanging greenery heightening the emotional weight of the moment. The location required little alteration, relying instead on the natural landscape to convey danger and isolation.

Other recognizable local sites appear throughout the film. Bubba’s home was filmed on Alston Road on Lady’s Island, while downtown Varnville stood in for the fictional town of Greenbow. The church scenes were shot at Stoney Creek Presbyterian Church in McPhersonville.

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see only fragments of

performed the monologue in its entirety while seated on the bench so Zemeckis could move freely between the present-day conversation and Forrest’s unfolding life story.

Savannah’s most famous square

Just down the road in Savannah, the film opens with a white feather drifting down over Madison Square, framed by St. John’s Episcopal Church and the Scottish Rite Building in the background. From there the feather floats onward, passing the steeple of Independent Presbyterian Church and the façade of First Baptist Church, before finally coming to rest at the feet of Forrest Gump on a bench beside a bus stop on the north side of Chippewa Square. Just behind him the monument to Georgia founder James Oglethorpe anchors the scene.

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Although viewers see only fragments of Forrest’s narration, Tom Hanks performed the entire monologue while seated on the bench. Director Robert Zemeckis wanted the freedom to cut between the bench scenes and Forrest’s life story as needed, giving the sequence its fluid, reflective rhythm. To make the scene work visually, traffic around Chippewa Square was temporarily reversed so the bus doors would open toward the bench, not away from it.

Savannah’s role in the film extends beyond the square. Jenny’s diner scenes were filmed at the former Debi’s Restaurant on the northwest corner of nearby Wright Square. Additional shots were captured along West Bay Street, while scenes outside the city were filmed at Love’s Seafood Restaurant off U.S. Highway 17 near Richmond Hill, close to the bridge over the Ogeechee River.

Today the original bench used in filming is preserved at the Savannah History Museum, but Chippewa Square remains a destination in its own right. Stand in the right spot, and it is still easy to imagine a feather drifting down, a stranger taking a seat, and a story beginning again. LL

EVER VIGILANT

IMAGING SERVICES

Get a clearer picture of your well-being at St. Joseph’s/Candler. You can expect access to advanced imaging technology powered by our team of devoted, hardworking imaging specialists and radiologists. Our non-invasive diagnostic screening services also include pretesting, bone density screening, 3D mammography, echo cardiology, ultra-sounds and CT scans as well as an open MRI. If it’s advanced imaging technology for diagnostic and therapeutic applications you’re looking for, then look no further than our team. At St. Joseph’s/Candler, we’re proud to call the Lowcountry home.

WE LOOK AFTER THE LOWCOUNTRY.

1-843-836-4300 - WWW.SJCHS.ORG/LOWCOUNTRY

BLUFFTON - 10-A OAK FOREST ROAD, BLUFFTON, SC 29910

Reclaiming the culture

SINGER, EDUCATOR, HISTORIAN (AND BUBBA’S MOM) MARLENA SMALLS HAS CARRIED GULLAH CULTURE IN HER HEART HER ENTIRE LIFE

STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA STAFF

lLong before the world came to know Marlena Smalls through a short but scene-stealing role as Bubba’s mom in the 1994 Oscar-winning film Forrest Gump, she was well known throughout the Lowcountry. Having founded the Gullah Festival in Beaufort 10 years prior and serving as leader of the Hallelujah Singers, who also appeared in the film, she had already made her mark as a fierce champion of Gullah culture, music and traditions.

Which makes it all the more interesting that it took an article from Smithsonian Magazine to truly open her eyes to something that had always been around her.

“I was familiar with the term Geechee, but not Gullah. When I moved to Carolina to work as a coordinator for the City of Beaufort, I read an article talking about the Gullah people. It piqued my interest because it was about me,” she said. “I realized that that’s who I am. And that’s why I do what I do.”

It was hardly her first introduction to the culture, however. Growing up in Ohio in a family that had migrated north from the Sea Islands, the thread that traces all the way back to West Africa had long been woven into her story.

“My mom was a Carolinian, and my mom’s mom was a Geechee woman and a Carolinian. My first educators were all Carolinians,” she said. “And my grandmother’s culture was very much intact — the way she dressed, the way she looked, the way she prepared her food. We want to think that the Gullah can only be found from the Carolinas to Florida, and that is not true.”

As evidence, she points to the massive impact that culture had as the African

A VOICE THAT CARRIES Marlena Smalls is a Beaufort icon whose life’s work bridges performance and preservation. Best known for her role as Bubba’s mother in Forrest Gump, she has spent decades sharing Gullah heritage through music, storytelling and education. From founding the Gullah Festival in Beaufort to leading the Hallelujah Singers as cultural ambassadors, Smalls continues to build a legacy that carries Gullah culture far beyond the Lowcountry.

diaspora filtered its way through the Lowcountry, from the drumbeats of Cuba to the dance moves of South America and the rice dishes found across both continents. But closest to her heart, showcased by the beautiful songs that effortlessly escape her as she speaks, is the rich musical legacy of the Gullah people.

“You’d be surprised how many times I talk to people, not just Black people but white people, asking, ‘Can I sing Negro spirituals?’ Yes, you can. It’s a universal language. It’s open to us all,” she said. “And some don’t want to sing them because they say, ‘It takes me back.’ But you should want to go back to know where you come from. That way, you know how far you can go.”

And so far, that music has taken her far, from performances in front of presidents and royalty to stages in countries as far away as Japan as she spreads the joy of the Gullah tunes at the root of her heritage.

“The responsibility that God has given me is not a dream, sweetheart,” she said. “He gave me a vision as to how I could play a part in uniting people and sharing culture through love.” LL

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A place to Chill

HOW BEAUFORT AND THE LOWCOUNTRY SHAPED ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR FILMS OF THE 1980S

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

Snapshots in time

fFilmed in Beaufort during the summer of 1982, The Big Chill used the Lowcountry’s quiet streets, historic homes and riverfront calm to tell a story about friendship, loss and the passage of time. Released in 1983, the Oscar-nominated comedy-drama became one of the defining films of its era. While audiences around the world connected with its sharp dialogue and unforgettable soundtrack, much of the film’s emotional resonance came from its setting, firmly rooted in Beaufort and the surrounding Lowcountry.

Most of the filming centered on Tidalholm, a 7,400-square-foot Greek Revival mansion in downtown Beaufort, overlooking the Beaufort River. Known locally as “The Big Chill House,” its wide porches, tall windows and sweeping river views framed long conversations, shared meals and quiet moments of reflection. Interior scenes were also filmed on location.

Locals will spot many familiar landmarks throughout the film. Bay Street appears during the early-morning jogging scene with Nick and Harold, captured when downtown was nearly empty. The wide sidewalks and still storefronts preserved a snapshot of Beaufort at an unhurried pace, one that remains instantly recognizable decades later. The opening funeral scenes were filmed at Sand Hill Baptist Church in Varnville, where two Beaufort Police Department motorcycles joined the procession. Actor Kevin Costner was originally cast as Alex Marshall, the friend whose suicide brings the group together, and filmed several scenes that were ultimately cut. In the finished film he appears only as Alex’s body in the coffin — a piece of Hollywood trivia that has since become a favorite barroom question among film buffs.

Tidalholm had already made its screen debut before The Big Chill, appearing in the 1979 film The Great Santini. Director Lawrence Kasdan admired the house so much that he chose it again, a decision later echoed by Country Living, which dubbed Tidalholm “the most famous historic house in South Carolina.”

A personal connection

The production also left a lasting personal imprint on the community. Actor Tom Berenger married local resident Lisa Williams on the Tidalholm lawn in 1986 and later purchased a home in the area. He lived locally for decades and is now married to local resident Laura Moretti.

During filming, cast and crew frequently gathered at the Original Steamer Oyster & Steakhouse on Lady’s Island, a longtime local favorite, where a fast-food restaurant now stands. Over the years, Steamer welcomed a steady stream of visiting celebrities, from Barbra Streisand and Nick Nolte to Tom Hanks and Robert Zemeckis.

A lasting legacy

Upon its release, The Big Chill earned three Academy Award nominations and became a cultural touchstone, sparking renewed interest in 1960s Motown music and resonating across generations. One of the film’s most memorable moments, the kitchen cleanup scene, was choreographed to “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” which the cast listened to on headphones during filming to keep the beat.

The off-camera atmosphere matched the soundtrack’s spirit. In a later Vanity Fair reunion article, Glenn Close and Jeff Goldblum recalled dance parties and practical jokes during the shoot, including an infamous prank involving oversized underwear attached to a ceiling fan.

Many viewers may not have known Beaufort by name, but the atmosphere lingered. Moss-draped trees, still water and unhurried streets quietly shaped the film’s tone. LL

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Tidalholm’s cinematic reboot

HOW A BELOVED BEAUFORT HOME RECLAIMED ITS HOLLYWOOD LEGACY

STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN WOLLWERTH

iIf there’s one thing Hollywood loves, it’s a redemption story. George Bailey being plucked from the edge of suicide to realize It’s a Wonderful Life. Darth Vader hurling the emperor down a pit to save his son. Robert Downey Jr. earning an Oscar nomination, solidifying a triumphant comeback from addiction.

It’s not just the characters or actors who deserve a redemption story. Some of the most iconic sets in movie history have wound up in the scrap heaps of Hollywood, their

fleeting fame no longer worth their upkeep. If you need proof, kayak through Cypress Gardens in Monck’s Corner to where sets from The Patriot are being slowly reclaimed by the swamp. Take a road trip up to Dillsboro, North Carolina, where the bus and train from The Fugitive quietly rust by the side of the road.

It was a fate that could have befallen Beaufort’s Tidalholm, had it not been for the intervention of John Tashjian and Katie Cunningham-Tashjian. The house was already

a classical piece of the city’s architecture before production began on The Big Chill, serving as a hospital during the Civil War, a classroom during Reconstruction and a bed and breakfast during the early 20th century. But after the cameras stopped rolling on The Big Chill and The Great Santini, both filmed at Tidalholm, the spotlight moved on and the home fell into disrepair. That is until the Tashjians — who were then only dating — paid a visit to Katie’s childhood home in Beaufort and saw the home for sale.

“I grew up on Lady’s Island. When you’re a kid, you don’t hear much about the house, but I knew that this neighborhood was meaningful and had an incredible history, but that was pretty much all I knew,” said Katie. “But of course, everyone knew it as the Big Chill House. When you’re giving a tour to visitors, you always show it off.”

What Katie didn’t know was that John was quietly making an offer.

“From the very beginning, I knew Katie was central to my life, and together we felt a deep responsibility to protect a piece of the town that shaped her,” said John. “Restoring Tidalholm wasn’t about impressing her; it was about honoring what she loves. As a developer, in a way, Tidalholm’s restoration became my version of a love letter to Katie and to the town that has always held her heart.”

The couple were engaged and wed in the house, but not before a painstaking restoration that took the 1853 home down to the studs.

“The restoration process was a significant undertaking that took a number of talented people,” said John, giving credit to designer Steven Gambrel, the late design wizard Beek Webb and builder Chuck Ferguson. “One of the first questions we had to answer for ourselves and for the historic review board, is what does Tidalholm’s next chapter look like? How does a modern family live in this house? We had to combine a number of disciplines.”

The resulting home bridges the home’s many past lives, preserving elements that were later added, like the neocolonialroof that covered an elaborate Italianate set of dormers and grand cupola, while transforming the interior with modern touches that honored its rich history. And that includes its brush with Hollywood stardom.

“One of the great pleasures of owning the home is hosting outdoor screenings of both films on the lawn for friends and charitable organizations, so we watch both films quite often,” said John. “In our basement, we hung the original movie posters for each film, which are adorned with memories and autographs from the actors and crew who have returned to Tidalholm in recent years.”

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Loved him, hated her

When The Prince of Tides came to Beaufort, Nick Nolte charmed the town. Barbra Streisand? Not so much

iSTORY BY TOMMY BAYSDEN

In 1991 Nick Nolte and Barbra Streisand took up residence in Beaufort for five months to film The Prince of Tides. To welcome the stars, doors were flung open, and red carpets rolled out across the small coastal town. Nolte embraced it wholeheartedly. Queen Barbra, not so much.

Nolte goes native

Nolte, dressed in green surgical scrubs, rode all over town on his rickety bicycle. He chatted with shrimpers and downtown merchants, lingered in cafés and bars and became close friends with Matt Williams, another recovering alcoholic. “His charm could melt the polar ice cap,” one local woman said.

Nolte himself was just as enthusiastic. “I’m really into this place,” he told anyone who would listen. “I want to know every street, every place to get a good burger. You’ll be sick of me by the time I have to leave!” Beaufort never did.

Enter the diva

Barbra Streisand, on the other hand, did not win over the locals. Quite the opposite. Everything she did seemed to grate. “Loved him, hated her,” one Beaufort resident was quoted in the Chicago Tribune. “She was a very uppity lady — and that’s not just the female point of view!”

Her first move was leasing a large historic home on Prince Street, complete with a gym, a pool and a tall surrounding fence. The owners retreated to their beach house on Fripp Island while Streisand repainted the interior, room by room. To be fair, the original colors were restored after she left.

Her stay overlapped with Beaufort’s annual Water Festival, and she was invited to sing the national anthem at the opening ceremony, accompanied by the Marine Corps Band, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest. She declined.

Around the same time, the Renaissance Weekend — known for drawing highpowered guests, including Bill and Hillary Clinton —was taking place on Hilton Head Island. One of the event’s founders later recalled Streisand striding into the room and striking up a conversation with the Clintons at a volume that completely drowned out the presentation underway. “She was a total disruption,” the host said.

September 1990.

ROOTED IN THE TIDES The Prince of Tides showcases the Lowcountry as more than scenery, with sweeping views of tidal rivers, weathered docks, shrimp boats and marshland that echo the story’s emotional pull. By filming in Beaufort and the Sea Islands, the movie quite literally brought Pat Conroy’s story home, grounding the film in the landscapes that shaped his life, his voice and his writing.

Scoops of local lore

Then there were the fighter jets. Streisand objected to “The Sound of Freedom” roaring over her rented home and called the commanding officer at the Marine Corps Air Station to demand that the flights stop. She even suggested the base be shut down. That, of course, was not possible, though the CO agreed to adjust the schedule slightly to keep the peace.

Streisand reportedly craved ice cream three times a day and dispatched her assistants to Plums, a popular local restaurant, to fetch it. Eventually dissatisfied with the available flavors, she sent her personal chef to teach the staff a new recipe featuring coffee, fudge and almonds. It remained on the menu for years.

On another occasion she toured a richly historic mansion on Bay Street. Arriving fashionably — and frustratingly — late, she was greeted by the homeowner, who extended her hand. Streisand barely touched a finger to it, Sistine Chapel-style, never making eye contact. She whispered her questions to an aide, who relayed them to the hostess. At no point did she directly address the owner.

One final episode seemed to crystallize Beaufort’s feelings. Streisand waited inside her Winnebago, parked outside a local home, while a crowd, hoping for autographs, gathered in the July heat. After an hour, a policeman announced, “Miss Streisand will be out in a moment. No autographs, please,” then moved the crowd 50 yards away.

Another hour passed. Suddenly the trailer door flew open. Streisand emerged, crossed about 20 feet of yard and disappeared into the house.

“A glimpse,” a local reporter later wrote. “That’s all that Streisand was willing to grant that day.” It may have finally dawned on the Beaufort faithful that, like the rest of the world, they would have to wait for the movie’s release to get a proper look at the celebrity in their midst.

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Conroy gets the last word

When locals eventually saw The Prince of Tides, many remarked that it bore only a passing resemblance to Pat Conroy’s novel. Conroy himself was unfazed. “When Hollywood acquired the film rights to The Prince of Tides,” he famously said, “they could have turned the Wingos into a family of Eskimos. That’s just the way the business works.”

And finally, legend has it that on the day Streisand departed Beaufort, the Air Station staged a five-plane, low-altitude flyover of her house.

A STORY SHAPED BY PLACE

From its opening flyover of the Beaufort River, The Prince of Tides makes clear that setting is more than scenery. Filmed in Beaufort and the surrounding Sea Islands, the movie returned Pat Conroy’s deeply personal novel to the landscapes that inspired it.

Beaufort on the big screen: The former Bay Street Inn (601 Bay Street) served as Tom Wingo’s childhood home. The former Beaufort High School football field was used for football scenes. The old Naval Hospital doubled as New York’s Bellevue Hospital. Filming also took place on Fripp Island, home to the movie’s beach house. Scenes on St. Helena Island feature the marshes surrounding the iconic shrimp boat, Tiderunner.

When Hollywood moved in: During filming, Beaufort briefly became a fullfledged movie town. Cast and crew lived throughout local neighborhoods, and production blended easily into daily life.

A Lowcountry connection: Four actresses portrayed Savannah Wingo at different ages. One was Kiki Runyan, then a 13-year-old Hilton Head Island resident. Her mother, Debi Lynes, is well known to many locals. Runyan later recalled Streisand’s kindness on set, especially toward the children.

From page to screen: Readers of Conroy’s novel often note the differences. The book is darker and more unfiltered, while the film softens some story lines and leans into emotional resolution. Together they offer two interpretations of the same story.

Lights, Camera, Lowcountry

HOW LOCAL BARRIER ISLANDS, BACK ROADS AND HISTORIC STREETS FOUND THEIR WAY ONTO THE BIG SCREEN

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

From jungle stand-ins and military training grounds to storybook streets and working waterfronts, the Lowcountry has long been cameraready. While a handful of blockbuster productions get most of the attention, many other films have left their mark on the Lowcountry.

Beaufort and the Sea Islands

The Jungle Book (1994) Fripp Island

G.I. Jane (1997) Harbor Island, Hunting Island

Survival-training scenes were filmed on Harbor Island while jungle and water sequences were shot on nearby Hunting Island. While much of the movie was filmed in Florida, the Beaufort County locations helped ground the intensity of elite military training. Demi Moore later described the role as her proudest professional achievement. Decades after its release, the film unexpectedly reentered pop culture during the 2022 Academy Awards, when a joke referencing Moore’s shavedhead role prompted Will Smith to slap comedian Chris Rock on live television.

Though set in India, Disney’s live-action adaptation relied heavily on Fripp Island, whose undeveloped interior doubled for dense jungle. Filmmakers were granted rare permission to burn and detonate areas slated for future development, land that later became the Ocean Creek golf course designed by Davis Love III. Elephants, tigers and other exotic animals were brought in, while wardrobe, makeup and catering operated near the Fripp Island Marina, briefly turning the island into a full production village.

The Final Run (2025)

Beaufort County

Inspired by the real-life Operation Jackpot smuggling ring of the 1980s, this crime drama was filmed on location throughout Beaufort County, including Port Royal and the waters of St. Helena Sound. Written and produced by Hilton Head Island businessman Walter Czura, the film weaves Lowcountry history and landscape into a gritty story of one last run through familiar marshes and waterways.

Daughters of the Dust (1991) St. Helena Island

Julie Dash filmed her entire groundbreaking feature on St. Helena Island, capturing Gullah-Geechee culture with lyrical care. The film became the first feature by a Black woman director to receive wide theatrical release in the United States and remains one of the most culturally significant movies ever filmed in the Lowcountry. It was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2004.

Full Metal Jacket (1987) Parris Island

Although most of Stanley Kubrick’s film was shot in England, authentic graduation footage from Parris Island was incorporated. Former Parris Island drill instructor R. Lee Ermey was hired as a technical adviser, but his realism proved so compelling that Kubrick cast him as Gunnery Sgt. Hartman, delivering largely unscripted performances that became iconic and helped launch his long film and television career.

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Beaufort and the Sea Islands

The Great Santini (1979)

Tidalholm, Beaufort

The stately Greek Revival mansion at Tidalholm portrayed the Meechum family home in this adaptation of Pat Conroy’s novel. Military scenes were filmed at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, while emotional moments unfolded around several Beaufort locations. Robert Duvall was frequently spotted driving around town, and the Beaufort world premiere in 1979 remains a proud local memory.

Stars Fell on Alabama (2021)

Beaufort, Bluffton, Port Royal

This modern romantic comedy transformed downtown Beaufort into the fictional small town of Willow Valley, Alabama, bringing a major production back to the Lowcountry for the first time in roughly two decades. Filming took place throughout historic Bay Street, on the campus of Beaufort Academy and at local favorites such as the Beaufort Inn and the Old Town Dispensary (now Agave SideBar) in Bluffton. Crew also used The Shed in Port Royal as a setting for a high-school reunion scene that plays a key role in the story.

Rules of Engagement (2000)

Hunting Island

Hunting Island’s dense subtropical landscape doubled for Vietnam’s Quang Tri Province. Locals were cast as Marines and civilians, many living on the island during production. Retired Marine Capt. Dale Dye trained the extras, bringing the same realism he applied to Platoon and Band of Brothers. Extras were discouraged from shaving or bathing, and many slept on Hunting Island during production.

White Squall (1996)

Beaufort

Director Ridley Scott returned to Beaufort to film portions of this nautical drama inspired by a real-life tragedy at sea. The town’s historic waterfront provided an authentic backdrop for early training scenes. Several familiar downtown locations were temporarily transformed for filming, including the Budget Print building on Carteret Street, which doubled as a bus terminal. The churchyard of the Parish Church of St. Helena also appears on screen. Additional scenes were shot along Washington Street and at local businesses such as Murr’s Graphic and Printing and The Chocolate Tree.

Something to Talk About (1995) Beaufort

Julia Roberts and Dennis Quaid’s Southern romantic dramedy used Beaufort as both backdrop and character. Scenes were filmed at the former Michael Rainey Antiques on Craven Street, while Gatsby’s Restaurant, now Q on Bay, hosted dining scenes. Bay Street buzzed with locals cast as extras, the USC Beaufort Performing Arts Center stood in for a college campus, and the Beaufort Library served as a green room while remaining open throughout filming.

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Beaufort and the Sea Islands

Last Dance (1996) Beaufort and Jasper counties

This crime drama starring Sharon Stone and Rob Morrow made extensive use of Lowcountry settings. Filming took place at “The Castle” on Craven Street, Hunting Island State Park and Ridgeland Correctional Institution. Off camera, the production embraced local life, with cast and crew gathering at Ned’s Pub-n-Grub and celebrating the wrap party at the Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club.

The War (1994) Beaufort

Starring Kevin Costner alongside a young Elijah Wood and Mare Winningham, this Depression-era drama left Beaufort with another movie landmark. The massive live oak with spiraling branches near the entrance to the Carolina Shores subdivision in Gray's Hill became the children’s “fort,” an image that has endured long after the credits rolled. To make filming possible, Beaufort County temporarily amended an ordinance to allow the roadway encircling the tree to be removed. Once production wrapped, the pavement was meticulously restored.

Hilton Head Island and Bluffton

The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000) Bluffton

Although set in Depression-era Savannah, many of the film’s golf scenes were shot on the Pete Dye Course at Colleton River Club. Local PGA Master Professional Tim Moss trained Matt Damon from scratch, turning him into a believable golfer for the role. Moss’s hands-on approach paid off, lending authenticity to every swing. Additional scenes were filmed across Savannah and Edisto Island, blending familiar landscapes with mythic storytelling inspired by the Bhagavad Gita.

Inland Lowcountry

Nightwalk (1989)

Hilton Head Island

This thriller starring Robert Urich was filmed on location on Hilton Head Island, using the island's coastal setting to heighten its sense of suspense. Scenes feature recognizable landmarks, including the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Harbour Town Marina. Numerous local residents appear as extras throughout the film.

Come Away Home (2005)

Hilton Head Island

This familyoriented drama draws on Hilton Head’s beaches, quiet neighborhoods and unhurried coastal rhythm to tell a heartfelt comingof-age story. The island’s natural beauty and lived-in character lend authenticity to the film and later inspired a successful novel of the same name by Robert D. Slane.

Hilton Head Island

This documentary celebrates the life and legacy of Gregg Russell, the beloved singer-songwriter whose weekly performances beneath the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town have been a Hilton Head Island tradition for generations. Filmed on location across the island, the film weaves archival footage with interviews and present-day scenes to capture Russell’s impact on the community and the unique cultural rhythm of Harbour Town. More than a music documentary, it serves as a love letter to Hilton Head Island itself, preserving a distinctly local story that unfolded not on a sound stage, but under an oak tree.

Chasers (1994) Yemassee

Directed by Dennis Hopper, this offbeat road-trip comedy starring Tom Berenger, William McNamara and Erika Eleniak brought Hollywood briefly to Yemassee. Biker-bar scenes were filmed at Harold’s Country Club Bar & Grill, a longtime local hangout known for attracting both residents and highprofile visitors. Among them is film producer Joel Silver, who often stops by when visiting his nearby Lowcountry retreat, Auldbrass Plantation, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls (1995) Cherokee Plantation

This high-energy comedy sequel transformed parts of the South Carolina Lowcountry into an African jungle adventure. Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area provided the film’s wild backdrop, with its boneyard beach, maritime forest and salt marshes standing in for remote African landscapes. Additional scenes were filmed at Cherokee Plantation in Yemassee, which doubled for the British consulate. The production used significantly more animals than the original Ace Ventura, filling the Lowcountry with controlled chaos and unforgettable visuals that showcased the region’s ability to convincingly play far from home. LL

Two teams worked together to create this home that’s equal parts comfort and character

STORY BY ALEA WILKINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDDIE TUCKER

t Perfect pair

There’s a reason strong relationships are built on a solid foundation. Through mutual understanding, cooperation and trust, it guarantees not just something beautiful but something that will last. For the second home of an Oklahoman couple, Front Light Building Company director of design Julie Callaway believed teamwork would turn their dream house into reality.

Starting with a Palmetto Bluff spec home, Callaway laid the hard surfaces before meeting the clients, a couple looking for a new place after their adult children fled the nest. To bring their vision of a flexible family hub to life, Callaway reached out to fellow designer and friend of 15 years, Gaston Conley of Gaston Crue Interiors. Though they’d never collaborated on a project before, she knew they’d click. “Finding the right designer is like finding the right therapist,” she says. “I knew instantly after spending time with this client that he would be the perfect fit.”

Together, the two designers worked with the couple to create their ideal gathering space, showcasing the magic of collaboration done right.

UPS-A-DAISY

For a feminine touch above the kitchen island, Callaway selected a pair of matching chandeliers from Regina Andrew Design. Look closely at these intricate, handmade fixtures, and find tiny ceramic flowers enclosing the light.

A Southern welcome

For the couple’s first Lowcountry home, the designers wanted to embrace their new surroundings without feeling overly kitschy. Bright, open spaces set the stage for delicate homages to the scenery, like oyster shell art decor on the kitchen counter or a captain’s wheel hoisted up on the wall. To develop each room’s distinct feel, Conley and his business partner, Ellen Burkhart, used their shared love for wallpaper as a starting point. “We took inspiration from each wallpaper and then created a scheme off of that,” Burkhart says, mentioning the laundry room’s pheasant pattern and a delicate deer design upstairs. “It was very fun because each room felt like its own space, but it was still kinetic. It still flowed.”

As a whole, the team let the home’s purpose guide the design. In the great room an open-concept kitchen stretches into a spacious seating area. Surrounding the chocolate leather ottoman, a pair of couches — each with a matching set of tropical throw pillows — and a couplet of leopard-print armchairs face the fireplace. Callaway says this set-up encourages harmony. “It was important to center everything off the fireplace because it acts like an architectural anchor in the house,” she says. “It definitely gives the space a sense of balance and symmetry, and that's important because these are in rooms that everyone naturally gathers.”

TEST THE WATERS Settling onto the east coast for the first time, the homeowners wanted a space that felt familiar while taking in the new. In this master bedroom, Callaway and Conley leaned on traditional design with Southern embellishments. The tropical wallpaper and muted coastal palette build a beachy vibe, but the subtle effect feels universally serene.

FRAMED BY FOREST

Against the dining alcove’s leafy green walls, Conley and Burkhart framed the windows with tall, foliage-covered curtains that nod to the view beyond. “The home is surrounded by trees and beautiful landscaping, so bringing that inside was the goal,” she says.

ALL IN

The card room invites a healthy dose of competition and creativity. Leave the two tables separated for team games or a peaceful puzzle by the window, or push them together for a sprawling contest that gets the whole family involved.

Hostess with the mostest

With a big family, satisfying everyone seems like an impossible task, but the designers were up for the challenge. Since the homeowners intend to host their children and grandchildren all under the same room, they wanted to ensure each family member had a place to relax, work or play. “The biggest thing was flexibility, making sure that there were spaces that could be used for multiple purposes,” Callaway says.

In the bourbon room, a cozy fire and ample seating suit both cocktail parties and family movie nights. The card room, filled with a pair of square wooden tables and chairs, makes working from home comfortable by day. When off the clock, kids can join in with board games or crafts. Even when family is away, the couple can appreciate their own groups of company without feeling too distant. Callaway explains that the hidden sliding doors between rooms make for easy adjustability as parties come and go. “If they have friends over, the guys can take one room, and the women, the another. There's flexibility to make drinks, mingle. There are a lot of cool opportunities,” she says.

living

Work in progress

Bringing this grand abode to life was not without its challenges. To the Gaston Crue team, sourcing pieces that reflected the homeowners’ character while meeting their timeline added extra pressure. Since they joined the project later on, they only had six months to pull it all together. Conley says that typically, a project of this grandeur can take upwards of 18 months. Still, with time, the homeowners can continue to build their own collection of knick-knacks and memorabilia— personal touches that will grow and change as the homeowners do. This principle guides Conley’s thinking: “A home never finished is what keeps it alive—always evolving, always welcoming,” he writes on Instagram.

All together now

An exciting wallpaper can make laundry feel like less of a chore, and this pheasant design coos with subtle Southern charm. Though an avian wallcovering may seem a little outlandish for such a modest space, Gaston Crue Interiors expertly keeps the rest of the room’s palette refined and understated.

From the first floorplan to the perfect finishing touch, it takes a village to build a home. This collaborative project exemplifies how a strong partnership can turn a simple spec home into something spectacular. “Being able to work side-by-side is such a big thing, and for it to just blend together and create such a beautiful space, I think that says a lot about our relationship,” Callaway says. To her, connecting with others is one of the most rewarding parts of the job, and this time was extra special. “Their home has been complete for over a year now, but you know we still check in all the time. She wants to hear about my kids. I want to hear about her grandkids,” she says. “That’s what makes this job so special.” LL

Elevate your outdoor living with motorized screens and awnings that deliver shade, privacy, and year-round comfort.

dSTORY BY ALEA WILKINS

PHOTO BY CARRIE BROOKSHIRE

Draw a bath, pop the bubbly, and never miss a moment. This luxurious master bathroom, curated by Brookshire Designs with hardware from Gateway Supply, welcomes in the outdoors. Combining a neutral color palette with grand windows, the room’s curation emphasizes the natural setting, letting the stunning views of Richmond Hill, Georgia shine. It’s the perfect place to refresh, unwind and soak it all in.

Mirroring the water’s gentle movement, the marble tile grounds the space with a sense of calm. Beside the soaking tub, intricately patterned wallpaper climbs toward a glass chandelier overhead and polished nickel fixtures add sparkle throughout. Where such ornate details might overwhelm, they instead accentuate the scenery with complementary colors and botanical motifs. Framed like artwork, the windows turn the landscape into a living backdrop. Altogether, this master bath is a retreat that doesn’t ask you to escape, but invites you to stay in the moment. BATHED IN LIGHT Sunlight streams through wide windows in this Richmond Hill master bath, where marble surfaces, soft neutrals and layered textures create a spa-like calm. A freestanding tub and glassenclosed shower keep the space open and airy, while the chandelier adds a refined touch.

Brick by brick

CREATIVE WAYS THE CLASSIC PAVER CAN REINVIGORATE YOUR BACKYARD

STORY BY ALEA WILKINS + PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH TURNER

Timeless tradition

Set next to the picturesque waters of Palmetto Bluff, this backyard feature feels harmonious with its setting. The Savannah gray brick packs local character, yet it’s understated enough to let the view do the talking. When used to create a matching bench for the fire pit, the space looks classic and fresh at the same time. Here, complexity is unnecessary. This brick layout builds a subtle, effective space that lays the foundation for beautiful moments spent together.

Layered Lowcountry

Three types of brick meet in this stylish Bluffton backyard. Pairing warm and cooltoned Savannah bricks with plantation tabby pavers from Lowcountry Pavers, the combination intrigues while maintaining a cohesive, coastal look. Despite incorporating different materials and colors, the consistent herringbone pattern unifies the space. The soldier course border, reinforced by its bold contrast, provides a clean visual edge, further tying the space together for a layered, estatelevel design suited for the Lowcountry.

Palette perfection

When done right, simplicity makes a statement. With a tranquil fountain at its center, the monochrome look of this Palmetto Bluff pathway keeps the mood calm and focused, yet the brick’s slightly different orientations — like herringbone down the center — impress without unnecessary ornamentation. Better still, this sturdy Pine Hall Barkerhouse will get better with time, developing its own distinct patina and personality as the seasons pass.

Black out

Black is the bold window framing idea that packs drama and durability

STORY BY ALEA WILKINS + PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HHI WINDOWS AND DOORS

Like a leather jacket or luxury car, black is the sleek, striking look that never goes out of style. To spice up your home with some debonair drama, HHI Windows and Doors recommends black window framing in place of traditional white. With expert installation, high-grade materials like vinyl and aluminum can improve a home’s year-round usage, and they're as durable as they are sharp. Modern, mighty and a little moody, black frames make windows a sight to behold.

Don’t stop the party

A full window installation transformed this formerly screened-in porch into a modern glass retreat. To complete this Bluffton project, HHI Windows and Doors opted for black vinyl framing for its functionality in addition to its chic appearance. Before, the porch allowed airflow, but it offered little protection from heat, humidity and weather. Now, the porch lets in natural light, giving it a serene, open feel while reducing outside noise, dust and moisture. Better still, it allows the homeowners to enjoy their backyard views all year long with added indoor comforts.

Power through the panes

Though black frames add instant glamor to a home’s exterior, they're not just another pretty face. Selecting a high-grade material combines beauty with power, enhancing a home’s efficiency and performance. Especially in this Bluffton abode, the precise alignment and sealing of the windows protects against weather and coastal storms. As the summer heats up, the home will remain cool and unaffected, and when the winters turn icy, this vinyl window set-up will lock in warm air. Even up against coastal storms, the frames prove to be a mighty force that will endure season after season.

WHY BLACK IS A TOP CHOICE FOR WINDOWS

Windows framed in black make a striking statement from the curb, but their appeal goes far beyond looks. Durable materials like vinyl or aluminum can also save homeowners stress and money over time. Here’s why HHI Windows and Doors choose black frames for designs that balance structure and style.

Modern look: A crisp black outline creates contrast and definition, giving homes a bold, contemporary feel that reads confident and cool.

Increased curb appeal: The sleek, on-trend appearance enhances a home’s exterior and can boost resale value by catching buyers’ attention.

Year-round weather resistance: While black materials may seem too warm for Lowcountry summers, vinyl or aluminum framing helps keep conditioned air inside. They're also strong enough to withstand tropical storms and cooler winter temperatures.

Energy efficiency: When installed correctly, black window framing helps prevent outdoor temperatures from affecting indoor comfort, reducing energy use and lowering electric bills while maintaining a comfortable living environment.

Trueoutdoorlivingisnotamatterofchance. Itistheresultofmeticulousdesign,construction,andcare,allmanaged byasingle,locallyownedturnkeypartner.Thiscommitmentensures attentiontodetailfromtheinitialsketchthroughtothefinalplanting.

outdoor living

Discoveroutdoorlivingdesignedforyou. Contactourteamtoscheduleanon-siteconsultation.

Reel comfort

CREATE A CINEMATIC RETREAT WITH RICH, MOODY HUES

sSTORY BY LANCE HANLIN + PHOTO BY LARRY MALVIN

Some rooms are meant to glow. Others are meant to disappear. This home theater falls firmly in the second category. Deep, earthy colors draw you in and let the screen take over. It’s a space designed for settling in, tuning out and staying awhile.

Get the look ...

This theater leans into tone rather than contrast. Fabric-wrapped acoustic panels in a deep garnet hue melt into the Cavern Clay walls, improving sound quality while reinforcing the room’s layered, intentional feel.

Low-pile carpeting in a subtle maroon pattern grounds the space and helps absorb sound, adding texture while keeping the room visually calm and acoustically balanced. Upholstered theater seating offers generous support without feeling bulky, and staggered rows create a true cinema experience. A raised rear platform ensures clear sight lines from every seat, while matching carpet allows the riser to disappear into the room.

Lighting stays subtle and purposeful. Dimmable fixtures with warm bulbs provide just enough glow to move around comfortably without competing with the screen. Low-level step lights or soft LED strips along the riser offer guidance without pulling focus.

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS ALABASTER (SW 7008)

Used sparingly, this soft off-white provides just enough contrast to define doorways and trim. A satin finish adds a subtle sheen that catches light without calling attention to itself, keeping the overall mood calm and cohesive.

WALLS & CEILING

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS

CAVERN CLAY (SW 7701)

This rich, sunbaked shade adds depth and warmth. Its earthy undertones make it especially well suited for media rooms, where controlling light matters most. Finished in matte or flat, the color gently recedes, allowing the screen to take center stage while the room itself fades into a calm, cocooning backdrop.

Throughout the space, matte finishes and tactile materials keep reflections to a minimum. The result is a room that fades into the background once the movie starts, leaving nothing but the story, the sound and the quiet pleasure of being fully immersed.

s Flowers that stole the scene

Five blooms with unforgettable roles on film; and when to bring them home

Some flowers are more than background dressing. On screen they become symbols of longing, excess, danger or hope. Off screen many of those same blooms can be grown in Lowcountry gardens or sourced from trusted local florists, then styled at home with just as much intention. Here are five flowers that made a lasting impression in popular movies, along with tips for when to gather them and how to display them beautifully.

Poppies

On screen: The Wizard of Oz (1939) In the iconic field scene, poppies blanket the landscape and induce an enchanted sleep. Their vivid red color signals both beauty and danger. When to collect: Early spring. In the Lowcountry poppies bloom briefly before heat sets in and are best enjoyed as seasonal flowers.

How to display: Poppies are shortlived, so enjoy them as fleeting art. One or two stems in a mug or small vase lets their papery petals shine without expectation of longevity.

Lilacs

Peonies

On screen: Marie Antoinette (2006)

Peonies fill the film’s lavish interiors, reinforcing themes of indulgence, youth and excess. They feel soft, romantic and unapologetically opulent.

When to collect: Late spring. In the Lowcountry peonies are typically sourced from florists, rather than cut from home gardens, due to limited winter chill.

How to display: Let peonies be the star. A wide, low bowl or footed compote suits their full blooms and makes them ideal for dining tables or coffee tables. No filler required.

On screen: Little Women

Lilacs appear in gentle, domestic moments, reinforcing themes of home, memory and fleeting seasons. Their scent does much of the storytelling. When to collect: Spring. In the Lowcountry lilacs are best sourced from florists, as they require colder winters than our coastal climate provides. How to display: Strip lower leaves, and split woody stems to help them drink. A vase placed in a hallway or bedroom allows the fragrance to travel, echoing the film’s quiet intimacy.

Red roses

On screen: American Beauty (1999) Red roses appear again and again in lush, dreamlike shots, most memorably as cascading petals. They represent desire and illusion, beauty edged with discomfort.

When to collect: Spring through fall, with the best blooms in April-May and again in October. Cut early in the morning when buds are just beginning to open. How to display: Keep it simple. A tight cluster of long-stemmed red roses in a clear glass vase mirrors the film’s minimalist drama. For a nod to the movie, scatter a few petals sparingly on a tabletop or tray, but restraint is key.

Daffodils

Big Fish (2003)

A field of daffodils becomes one of cinema’s grandest gestures, transforming a proposal into a fairy tale moment. The flowers symbolize optimism, devotion and

When to collect: Late winter to early spring. Choose heat-tolerant varieties suited to our mild winters.

How to display: Daffodils release sap that can shorten the life of other flowers, so display them alone. A loose armful in a ceramic pitcher or enamel jug feels joyful and unfussy, especially in kitchens or entryways.

Framed florals

A simple way to turn fresh blooms into keepsakes that last

Chrissy Mozeleski is the owner of Helena Hills Farm, a U-pick flower farm in Hardeeville known for its seasonal blooms and handson floral workshops. This month she shares a simple way to turn fresh flowers into lasting keepsakes.

FINISHED AND FRAMED

A soft pink bloom and delicate greenery are preserved inside a hexagonal glass frame, creating a light-catching keepsake designed to be hung and enjoyed long after the flowers have faded.

fFebruary invites us to slow down and savor small, meaningful moments. In this easy project, local flower farmer Chrissy Mozeleski shows how to turn fresh blooms into framed works of art that celebrate both beauty and memory. Pressed florals offer a sliver of joy; a way to preserve a favorite bouquet, mark a moment in time or simply bring a bit of the garden indoors. Whether made as a gift or for yourself, each piece becomes a personal keepsake, shaped by the flowers you choose and the stories behind them.

STEP 1: Gather your supplies

Here's what you’ll need:

• Pressed flowers and greenery (see tips below)

• A floating glass frame (hinged or magnetic)

• Tweezers

• Small paintbrush

• Mod Podge

• Ribbon or twine for hanging

STEP 2: Choose and press your blooms

Select flowers that dry well, such as hydrangea, lavender, viola, Queen Anne’s lace or ferns. To press them, place blooms between layers of white paper or fabric inside a flower press or between heavy books. Leave them undisturbed for one to two weeks until completely dry and flat.

STEP 3: Design your composition

Arrange your pressed flowers on one pane of glass before sealing the frame. Start with larger stems or greenery, then layer in smaller blooms for balance and movement. Once you’re happy with the layout, use a light touch of Mod Podge to secure the pieces before closing the frame.

STEP 4: Add the finishing touch

Thread a ribbon or soft twine through the top loop. Soft shades like buttercream, blush or pale lavender add a gentle, romantic feel that suits the season.

Display or gift

Hang your framed florals in a sunny window, or prop them on a shelf where the light can shine through. Each piece becomes a celebration of nature and a reminder that beauty can be preserved long after the season has passed.

PETALS IN PROGRESS Pressed blooms

are carefully arranged inside a glass frame, where color, texture and placement come together before the final seal.

The joy of the find

STEP INSIDE MAISON BEAUFORT FOR A WEEKEND OF BEAUTIFUL OBJECTS, CREATIVE INSPIRATION AND UNEXPECTED TREASURES

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

4. Objects with a story to tell

Kate Horsby Antiques (Columbia) With a curator’s eye and a storyteller’s sensibility, Kate Horsby assembles objects that invite a second look. Her finds range from sculptural accents to unusual furniture, each chosen for its craftsmanship, history or sheer intrigue. It’s a booth where every piece sparks conversation and rewards curiosity.

5. Artful layers for everyday living

Twigs and Moss (Okatie) Known for turning the ordinary into something special, Twigs and Moss offers decoupage trays and plates featuring vintage botanical and natural-history imagery. Each piece feels collected, ideal for styling a coffee table, serving drinks or adding personality to a bookshelf. Prices range from $10 to $95, making them easy treasures to take home.

eEach March downtown Beaufort comes alive with the return of Maison Beaufort, a four-day celebration of beautiful living and well-collected things. The event brings together a handpicked mix of dealers offering everything from antiques and art to lighting, linens, garden accents and those irresistible finds you didn’t know you needed. It is not just about shopping. It is about discovery, inspiration and the stories behind each piece. Here’s a look at just a few of the standout dealers and treasures waiting to be found this year.

1. Garden charm with a European soul

Oakleaf (Highlands, N.C.) From sculptural lemon cypress and myrtle topiaries to thoughtfully chosen garden accents, Oakleaf brings a refined outdoor sensibility rooted in classic European style. Its petite topiaries, priced at $29, are perfect for porches, sunrooms or tabletops, while its collected garden accessories add texture and age to even the newest spaces. These are pieces meant to live outdoors but feel at home inside.

2. European elegance, effortlessly layered

Amy Heinrich Antiques & Interiors (Atlanta) Amy Heinrich’s booth is a master class in timeless design. Sourced throughout France and England, her collection includes antique furniture, artwork and decorative objects with quiet patina and refined character. Each piece brings depth and history, perfect for creating interiors that feel collected over time rather than decorated all at once.

3. Where the unexpected lives

Bachelor Hill Antiques (Beaufort) A visit to Bachelor Hill is always a bit of an adventure. Its booth blends antique furniture, decorative objects and conversation pieces that feel both whimsical and storied. From sculptural accents to charming curiosities, this is where you’ll find something you didn’t know you were looking for, but won’t leave without.

SEE THE SHOW

What: Maison Beaufort (antiques, home & garden show)

When: March 5-8

Where: Tabby Place, Beaufort Tickets: maisonbeaufort.org

2026 SCHEDULE

March 5: Preview party, 4:30-7 p.m., $50 (RSVP)

March 6-7: Maison Beaufort, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $7-$10

March 8: Maison Beaufort, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., $7-$10

WILDLIFE WONDER

iBuilt for the marsh

WHY RIVER OTTERS THRIVE IN THE LOWCOUNTRY’S TIDAL WORLD

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEANNE PADDISON

If you’ve ever spotted a slick brown shape cutting through a tidal creek or watched a creature belly-slide down a muddy bank, you know the feeling. River otters have a way of stopping you in your tracks. In the Lowcountry they’re some of our most entertaining wild neighbors, popping up along riverbanks, marsh edges and winding waterways, with equal parts grace and mischief.

As playful as they are to watch, otters play a serious role in the ecosystem. These semiaquatic mammals are predators that help keep populations of fish, crustaceans and amphibians in balance. Their presence is often a sign of clean water and a healthy habitat, something worth paying attention to in a place defined by its creeks and marshes.

Jeanne Paddison knows otters well. As executive director and lead wildlife rehabilitator at Savannah Wildlife Rescue Center, she has cared for countless orphaned and injured animals over the years, otters included. “Otters are amazing critters,” she says. “They’re wonderful and fun to watch, but unlike beavers, they do eat fish, so people don’t always like them as much.”

A couple of years ago, the center welcomed a tiny new arrival and named it Jolene. “Orphaned, she was and found seeking shelter in a car engine,” Paddison explains. “She was eventually able to be released back into the wild.” Stories like Jolene’s are the goal. Rescue, rehab and release, whenever possible.

Other otters have taken a longer road. Lucy and Cory, both raised at SWRC, are a reminder that rehabilitation is rarely simple. Lucy was found on Tybee Island at about 10 weeks old and was first believed to be female. Later, that changed. “He wasn’t suited for independence in the wild at that age,” Paddison says. “Eventually, Lucy was released onto a five-acre pond, where he enjoys a great deal of freedom.”

One lesson Paddison stresses is the importance of socialization. “If they don’t encounter another otter, they won’t know they’re an otter or recognize what another otter is supposed to smell like,” she says. After raising Lucy on his own, the center paired him with Cory. “We weren’t sure, with both being males,” she says, “but we tried it, and now they’re best buddies.”

Caring for otters is labor-intensive, to put it mildly. “Our water bill is crazy because we usually have water tanks for otters and beavers,” Paddison says. “They come in around February and stay four to five months, and we refill those tanks every day.” Still, she wouldn’t trade it. Every squeak, splash and wrestling match is part of the process. These animals aren’t just patients. They’re personalities, teachers and daily reminders of how much connection matters.

Otters are also remarkably smart. They use rocks to crack open clams and mussels, sometimes keeping a favorite stone for years. They’ll carry it with them, nap with it and even share it with a mate or a human caretaker. Watching that small ritual unfold, Paddison says, reveals just how clever these animals can be.

Their history hasn’t always been kind. River otters were once heavily hunted for their fur and today face threats from habitat loss, water pollution and conflicts with people. Even so, they’ve proven adaptable. They breed in late winter or early spring, and pups typically learn to swim by about 2 months old. Otters communicate through

whistles, yelps and scent marking, and their playful behavior, including sliding, chasing and mock wrestling, helps young otters learn the skills they’ll need to survive.

They’re also great travelers. Otters move easily between freshwater and brackish environments and can cover long distances in search of food. Roads and development, however, remain a serious danger, especially in fast-growing coastal areas.

Seeing an otter in the wild never gets old. It might be a ripple across the water, a quick flash of fur or a head popping up just long enough to check you out before disappearing again. In those moments, they remind us why protecting the Lowcountry’s wild spaces matters. Nature here isn’t just beautiful. It’s curious, clever and very much alive.

How to spot an otter

Seeing a river otter in the Lowcountry is part luck, part timing and part knowing what to look for. Here’s how to improve your odds.

Think creeks, not open water: Otters favor tidal creeks, marsh edges and quiet rivers over wide, open stretches. Look for narrow waterways with muddy banks, oyster shells or fallen logs where they can climb out to rest.

Go early or late: Dawn and dusk are prime otter hours. They’re most active when the light is low and the creeks are calm, especially on cooler mornings when fewer boats are moving through.

Watch for motion, not fur: You’re more likely to notice ripples, bubbles or a quick V-shaped wake than a full-bodied view. Heads pop up briefly, then disappear just as fast.

• Listen carefully: Otters aren’t silent. Soft chirps, whistles or quick squeaks can give them away, especially when young otters are nearby.

• Look for signs left behind: Slide marks on muddy banks, scattered shellfish remains and small piles of droppings, called spraint, often mark favorite hangouts.

Give them space: If you spot an otter, keep your distance and let it go about its business. Quiet observation keeps both you and the animal safe and increases the chance you’ll see it again.

Be patient: Otter watching rewards those who linger. Settle in, stay still, and let the marsh do its thing. Sometimes the best sightings happen when you’re not trying too hard.

Who you gonna call?

If you find an injured, orphaned or trapped otter, contact one of these local rehabilitators:

• Savannah Wildlife Rescue Center: 912-596-1237

• Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary: 864-683-3190

OTTERLY DELICIOUS Cory is shown claiming his snacks at the sanctuary. Paws off, Lucy!

Cedar waxwings FREQUENT FLYER

THE BERRY BANDITS OF THE TREETOPS

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

LISTEN UP

Scan this QR code to hear the call of the cedar waxwing.

cCedar waxwings are among the most striking birds you’re likely to spot in the Lowcountry. Sleek and elegant, they wear a silky blend of brown, gray and lemon yellow. A bold black mask, neatly edged in white, gives them a mischievous look. It’s a fitting expression for a bird with a single-minded mission.

Above all else, cedar waxwings love fruit, especially berries. Their name tells the story. “Waxwing” refers to the small, brilliant red droplets at the tips of some wing feathers, which look like sealing wax and echo the fruits they favor. “Cedar” comes from their fondness for cedar berries during the colder months. Picky they are not. Dogwood, holly, serviceberry, mulberry and even ornamental shrubs in suburban yards are all fair game.

Their bodies are built for this lifestyle. Unlike many fruit-eating birds that regurgitate seeds, waxwings let them pass straight through. Scientists have studied this trait to measure how quickly the birds process fruit, an essential adaptation for a species that can survive on fruit alone for months. When a flock finds a good food source, the result can be dramatic. Entire trees are stripped bare, leaving behind a scattering of seeds ready to sprout somewhere new.

Cedar waxwings are rarely alone. You’re most likely to see them in tight-knit flocks, perched shoulder to shoulder in fruiting trees, working methodically through every branch. They pluck berries one by one and swallow them whole, sometimes hovering briefly to snatch fruit midair. When insects are on the menu, they skim low over ponds and creeks with a fluttery, slightly awkward flight that recalls plump, tipsy swallows.

have been seen flying erratically, bumping into windows or sitting dazed on branches. What they eat can even change how they look. In the 1960s birders began noticing waxwings with orange rather than yellow tail tips. The culprit was pigment from berries of an introduced honeysuckle species. If a bird eats enough of those berries while growing new tail feathers, the color change is permanent. In a very real way, their diet becomes part of them.

Berries also shape their social lives. Courtship revolves around food. Males and females hop toward each other, passing small items back and forth, usually a berry, sometimes an insect or even a petal. The exchange may repeat several times before the female finally eats the offering. Think of it as a berry instead of an engagement ring.

They even time their nesting around fruit. Cedar waxwings often breed later than many songbirds, waiting for peak berry availability. Nests are frequently built in fruiting trees and shrubs, and if construction lags, they’re not above stealing nesting material from neighbors to speed things along. Berries aren’t the only thing they swipe. Masked, social and utterly devoted to fruit, cedar waxwings live lives shaped by berries, from courtship to color to the occasional tipsy mishap. When a flock descends on a berry-laden tree, it feels less like a casual visit and more like a carefully planned heist. LL

Where to find them

“Although berries make up the bulk of their diet, cedar waxwings readily supplement with insects, especially during warmer months. In the Lowcountry you’re most likely to spot flocks between November and April as they sweep through the landscape in search of berry-laden American holly, dogwood, cedar, mulberry and juniper trees. Their subtle coloring can make them surprisingly hard to see, so listen for their high-pitched, ringing calls. Look toward the treetops, where they prefer to gather in tight, animated clusters. I’m fortunate to have a large American holly in my own yard, and each March it becomes a stage for hundreds of waxwings arriving in waves, stripping the tree of its final berries and often pausing to feed one another.”

– Gwen Callas-Miller, local birder

Their fruity devotion does have a downside. Overripe berries can ferment naturally, producing alcohol, and waxwings sometimes eat enough to feel the effects. Disoriented birds

Essentials

Get everything you need for backyard birding at Wild Birds Unlimited in the Festival Centre at Indigo Park on Hilton Head Island.

LOWCOUNTRY ALMANAC

fFebruary

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

A SEASON OF SUBTLE CHANGE, BRIGHTER AFTERNOONS AND SLOW BEGINNINGS

February moves through the Lowcountry poised between winter’s restraint and spring’s first stirrings. The days grow noticeably longer, the light softens, and the marsh begins to hint at change, even if the air still carries a winter edge. Named for Februa, an ancient Roman festival of purification, February has long been associated with cleansing, preparation and renewal. Guided by the 2026 Old Farmer’s Almanac and Grow Great Vegetables South Carolina, this month’s almanac helps you read the subtle signs of the season ahead.

Weather predictions

February brings a gentle shift in the Lowcountry’s winter weather with cool mornings, milder afternoons and the first early nudges toward spring.

Average temperature: 51 degrees (about 4 degrees above average)

Rainfall: 4.5 inches (near average)

WEEK-BY-WEEK FORECAST

Feb. 1-4: Sunny, then rain, heavy at times; warmer

Feb. 5-7: Sunny, much colder

Feb. 8-13: Rainy, warmer

Feb. 14-21: Sunny, warm

Feb. 22-28: Showers, then sunny; turning cooler

Astronomical events

February’s night sky reflects the season’s transition, with shorter stretches of darkness balanced by crisp winter stars.

Feb. 1: The full moon, often called the Hunger Moon or Snow Moon, lights up the night sky. These names trace back to a time when heavy snow and scarce game made late winter especially lean.

Feb. 19: Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation, offering the best evening view of the swift planet, low in the west after sunset.

Feb. 17: A new moon arrives, offering darker skies for stargazing. No major eclipses are visible locally this month.

Feb. 28: A rare six-planet alignment (Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Jupiter) will be visible in the evening sky just after sunset.

Tides & currents

Stay in sync with the rhythms of the Lowcountry coast. Scan this QR code for up-todate tide and current predictions from NOAA.

Night & day

February’s lengthening days bring brighter mornings and later sunsets, a small but welcome reminder that spring is gaining ground.

Sunrise: 6:51-7:16 a.m.

Sunset: 5:56-6:19 p.m.

little more than coffee, wind and wings for company.

In the garden

February triggers momentum in the garden. Winter chores continue, but preparation now sets the tone for the busy weeks ahead.

PREP Buy seed potatoes, and chit them in flats. Spread compost, and till beds. Finish weeding perennials. Prune grapes and strawberries. Weed overwintered spinach, kale, collards, garlic, onions and other greens.

PLANT While much of the garden remains at rest, a few crops can be started.

Indoors: Sow sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, squash, pumpkins and watermelons.

Outdoors: Direct sow beans, okra, cucumbers, squash and corn by midmonth, as weather allows.

HARVEST Arugula, Asian greens, carrots, collards, Egyptian onions, kale, leeks, lettuce, mustards, spinach and turnips

Best

days Looking for good timing? Lunar phases suggest February’s most favorable days for a few everyday pursuits.

Go fishing: Feb. 1, 17-28

Paint: Feb. 9-10

Date night: Feb. 14

Long weekend getaway: Feb. 14-16

Buy a home: Feb. 26-27

Seafood feast: Feb. 28

TROWEL TALK

w Coming up roses

GROW THE PERFECT VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT, AND GIVE YOUR GARDEN SOME LOVE

STORY BY ALEA WILKINS AND SUZANNE BARTON

A VALENTINE FOR THE GARDEN Velvety red roses steal the spotlight as winter gives way to the first hints of spring. Pruning now encourages strong new growth, setting the stage for a season of lush blooms and garden romance to come.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE It’s time to ease your seedlings into the garden. Just watch the weather closely, and give them a little protection if temperatures dip.

Winter may still be in full swing, but despite the cold, romance blooms this time of year. To celebrate, The Green Thumb's manager and certified professional horticulturist Suzanne Barton has the perfect gift: a backyard full of roses. Learn how to tend to these gorgeous blooms that are in-season. With Suzanne’s tips for prepping and pruning, your whole garden will feel the love.

[LOCAL Life] Which flowers should I plant for Valentine’s Day? [Suzanne Barton] Roses, of course! They make such a nice gift and are available this time of year. You can plant and fertilize them once buds appear early in the spring. For existing bushes, late February to early March is the best time to prune. Trim so the branches grow outward — like a fan. This will prevent them from crossing, rubbing or getting damaged in the wind. And since the Lowcountry is so humid, leave some room in the center to improve air circulation and prevent fungus. That way, your blooms will look beautiful for the season.

[LL] I started sowing my seeds indoors last month. What’s next? [SB] This month transfer your seeds to your garden. Vegetables like carrots, radishes, onions, potatoes, peas and kale prefer being directly sowed, so it’s the perfect time to start putting your seeds in place. Still, you’ll have to be savvy about the weather. Pay attention to the forecast, and if a cold front is on the way, protect your seedlings with frost cloth or another breathable covering. Even a lightweight bed sheet propped up with chopsticks will work. As long as the ground is shielded from frost and there's enough airflow for your plants, your garden should remain safe and sound.

[LL] How should I prepare my woody plants for spring? [SB] Ideally, after the Lowcountry’s last frost, begin pruning your shrubs, trees and woody perennials for shape and structure. Check to see if plants are structurally sound, remove any damage from frost, and then give them a nice trim. It’s easier to do this now when leaves aren’t in the way, so take the time to carefully prune your plants. Remember, every time you prune, you spur new growth, so cut away with care, and spring bloomers, such as azaleas, should be pruned after blooming. Once the winter clean-up is done, your garden will be ready for the real growing season to begin.

Primped & pruned

Smart seasonal tips from Lowcountry Gardening, a guide written and produced by the Lowcountry Master Gardener Association

oOnce the threat of frost is past (late February or early March), it is time to prune. Prune to shape, reduce size and open up dense foliage, but do not prune spring-flowering shrubs, such as azaleas and loropetalum. Renewal pruning of overgrown or unsightly shrubs can be done at this time. Prune dead wood from perennial plants like lantanas. February is a good time to plant roses. Find a sunny spot, and prepare the soil properly to ensure years of pleasure. Valentine’s Day is the suggested day to prune roses to remove old wood and encourage development of new, strong, healthy stems. Prepare your vegetable beds by loosening soil and working in compost. Check fencing, poles, cages and trellises for damage. Many vegetables are suited to plant Feb. 1 to March 15: asparagus, beets, cabbage, carrots, collards, kale, leeks, lettuce, mustard, garden peas, radishes, rutabagas, spinach and turnips.

Excerpted from Lowcountry Gardening, written and published by the Lowcountry Master Gardener Association. Grab a copy of this handy guide to all things Lowcountry gardening for $5 at The Greenery, Bruno Landscape & Nursery, The Green Thumb or the Master Gardener booth at the Bluffton and Port Royal farmers markets. For more information, head over to LowcountryMGA.org

CREATIVE STYLE

Lights, camera, fashion

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA

STAFF STYLED BY BAILEY GILLIAM

sSet against the creative heartbeat of the island, this month’s fashion story steps behind the curtain at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, where storytelling, performance and artistry come to life on stage. Inspired by the glamour and imagination of film, television and theater, we celebrate fashion as its own form of expression. It’s dramatic when it wants to be, refined when it needs to be and always rooted in creativity.

Our models, Andrea Gannon and Patti Maurer, embody that spirit perfectly. Gannon, vice president of marketing for the Arts Center, represents the behindthe-scenes magic that makes every show shine. Maurer, Hilton Head Preparatory School’s performing arts director and a familiar face in Arts Center productions, brings the poise of a performer to every frame. Together they lend cinematic style to one of the Lowcountry’s most inspiring creative spaces.

Center stage

Seated on a fainting chair amid the set of an upcoming production, Patti Maurer channels quiet drama and effortless elegance in a look from Outside Hilton Head. Her flowy, floral-inspired top moves beautifully under the stage lights, offering softness and visual interest without overpowering the moment. Neutral pants in a dark green-gray hue ground the look, keeping it polished and versatile, while a deep green clutch adds a subtle, tonal finish. It’s an outfit that feels perfectly at home both onstage and off — expressive yet wearable, and creative yet composed — much like the set pieces that surround her.

Backstage glamor

Standing backstage beside a rack of costumes, Andrea Gannon brings modern edge to a space steeped in theatrical history. Surrounded by walls adorned with hand-painted, signed posters from past Arts Center productions, she embodies the bridge between performance and polish. Her tan leather jacket from Currents, detailed with subtle star accents, nods to showbiz glamour without feeling costumey. Black fitted pants and a sleek black top keep the look grounded, while gold jewelry adds warmth and shine. In her hand a rhinestone clipboard, also from Currents, delivers a playful, tongue-in-cheek touch that feels equal parts practical and fabulous. It’s a look that proves backstage style can be just as compelling as what’s under the spotlight.

Artfully put together

Inspired by Andrea’s effortless blend of creativity and confidence, this look shows how to dress with intention while letting personality shine. It’s polished but relaxed, expressive without being overdone. It’s the kind of outfit that works whether you’re heading to a meeting, a matinee or an opening-night reception, all while embodying the Lowcountry’s creative charm.

Pattern play

GET THE LOOK

A blue-and-white paisley-inspired top from Palmettoes with its artistic pattern and delicate blue lace trim along the hem. It feels feminine, fresh and just dramatic enough to stand

balance

Blue fitted pants from

outfit with structure, creating a clean silhouette that balances the flow of the top and wrap.

Soft statement

The cashmere wrap from The Back Door adds texture and movement, with playful pom-pom trim, giving it a whimsical edge. Draped over the shoulders, it elevates the entire look while keeping things cozy.

Step back

White sandals from Maggie & Me finish the look with ease. The small chunky heel offers comfort and stability while keeping the outfit light and modern, perfect for long days that turn into stylish evenings.

FASHION FINDS Statement pieces that steal the scene

A great statement piece can change the entire mood of an outfit, much like a standout moment on screen. This curated mix of local finds draws inspiration from film, television and stage, blending bold color, texture and timeless silhouettes. Each piece brings its own sense of drama, making everyday style feel a little more cinematic.

1. Put on my blue suede shoes

A pair of blue suede shoes from John Bayley Clothier delivers classic sophistication with a creative edge. The rich color feels bold yet refined, adding depth and personality to everything from tailored trousers to denim. It’s the kind of shoe that commands attention without trying too hard.

2. Frame the look

Blue-framed glasses from Eyeland Optique prove eyewear can be both functional and fashion-forward. The cool-toned frames add a pop of color while maintaining a clean, modern shape, making them an easy way to elevate everyday style with confidence.

3. Western spotlight

Quill earrings from Brims on the Bluff, as seen on Beth Dutton in season three of Yellowstone, bring a dose of rugged, on-screen style into everyday wear. Their sculptural design and natural movement add bold texture and artisanal character, making them a statement piece that never feels overdone. Grounded yet dramatic, they’re the perfect finishing touch for adding personality and a subtle edge to any outfit.

4. Little star power

Sequin dresses from Island Child bring playful glamour to little ones’ wardrobes. With eye-catching sparkle and joyful silhouettes, these dresses are perfect for special occasions, dress-up days or any moment that calls for a little extra shine.

5. Hollywood romance

A floral midi dress from Spartina 449 captures the elegance of classic Hollywood glamour with a modern, coastal twist. The flowing silhouette and romantic print feel timeless, making it a standout piece for everything from evening events to daytime outings.

BEAUTY

Camera-ready hands & nails

From stage lights to everyday shine, beauty in the Lowcountry is all about polish with personality. These nail trends strike a balance between timeless neutrals and eye-catching finishes, inspired by classic Hollywood glamour and modern, wearable style. Whether you’re drawn to a clean, understated manicure or something with a little star power, these looks and local favorites prove that great nails are always camera-ready.

Silver screen chromatics

For those craving a little drama, chrome nails are stealing the scene. With their reflective, high-shine finish, chrome manicures bring instant glamour and a modern edge. Whether layered over neutrals or worn in silvery tones, this trend captures the essence of cinematic beauty: bold, luminous and designed to catch the light from every angle.

The Funny Bunny Club

Soft, creamy and endlessly flattering, OPI’s Funny Bunny has become a Lowcountry staple. So much so that its cult followers have named themselves members of the “Funny Bunny Club.” This milky white shade offers barely-there elegance that works for every occasion, making it a go-to for locals who love a clean, polished look without harsh contrast. It’s fresh, timeless and universally wearable — the kind of manicure that feels just as appropriate backstage as it does on opening night.

Polished, head to toe

Regular manicures and pedicures aren’t just about polish; they’re an essential part of self-care for both men and women. Consistent nail maintenance helps keep hands and feet healthy, prevents breakage and dryness and creates a clean, well-groomed appearance that translates to confidence in any setting. Whether finished with a clear coat, a neutral shade or nothing at all, well-cared-for nails are a subtle detail that makes a strong impression, on camera and off.

You’d better shape up

Nail shapes trending now lean toward practical, yet refined. Short almond and soft square tips are leading the way, offering flattering silhouettes that feel both current and easy to maintain. These shapes balance elegance with everyday wearability, making them ideal for busy schedules that still demand a polished finish.

Care behind the scenes

Great nails deserve great care. Keeping hands hydrated is key to maintaining a polished look. Osea Hydrating Hand Cream, available at Coastal Skin Studio, elevates everyday hand care with a nourishing blend of shea butter, coconut oil and hyaluronic acid. Crafted in partnership with Parachute Home, the formula absorbs beautifully, while skinrevitalizing lipids and subtle notes of vetiver and lemon oil help protect hands from daily exposure, making it a sinkside essential that feels both luxurious and practical.

shopping Love Local

SET THE TABLE

This set from MacKenzie-Childs features a beautiful Rosy Check pattern that is perfect for adding a touch of Valentine's color to any home or table.

A TOAST TO YOU

Colored with a beautiful, soft blush shade, this set of stemware is perfect for any romantic date night.

Available at J. Banks Design

Available at Forsythe Jewelers

FOLLOW YOUR HEART

Pair these adorable dipping bowls with a signature olive oil for a heartfelt Valentine's gift anyone would love.

Available at Hilton Head Oils and Balsamics

SHARING IS CARING

This Nora Flemini double dish features a darling heart mini feature. This feature can be changed out to fit any holiday.

Available at Gifted

ROSY AND RED

This collection of red and pink decor is perfect for getting your home ready for Valentine's Day.

ROMANTIC CANDLELIGHT

Relax and unwind with the soothing floral scent of rosewater with this pink Himalayan salt and rosewater candle from Nest.

Available at Pyramids

YOU MELT MY HEART

Centered around the iconic red parrot artwork, this Mai Tai candle leans into warmth and depth. It is inviting and quietly romantic, designed to be reused for cocktails long after the candle has burned. Available at Hilton Head Soap Co.

BE

STILL MY HEART

A heartfelt touch for any table. The "Love You More" heart tray by Juliska makes a charming Valentine's gift or everyday reminder.

Available at Le Cookery

FRAME OF MIND

This pretty picture frame is made of recycled cotton paper which is then hand block printed and wrapped by Indian artisans. Available at Marsh on the May

5-MINUTE HISTORY

Sacred ground

The layered history of Old Sheldon Church and the generations shaped by it

STORY BY RICHARD THOMAS

Richard Thomas is an owner and guide for Hilton Head History Tours and is the author of Backwater Frontier: Beaufort Country, at the Forefront of American History.

A CHURCH IN FLAMES

This illustration by LOCAL Life designer Charles Grace depicts Loyalists and British soldiers setting fire to Sheldon Church in May 1779 during the Revolutionary War.

aAt the turn of the 17th century, territory to the north, west and south of the Charles Town colony was considered Indian Territory and unsafe for settlement. As lands along the rivers feeding into Charles Town Harbor became more settled, immigrants and wealthy residents began looking for suitable land further inland.

In 1701 William Bull I, an engineer, surveyor and prominent official in Charles Town, applied for and was granted a license to trade with the Indians in the Southward Indian Territory. He opened a trading post near the Yemassee town of Pocotaligo. Sometime between 1718 and 1720, after the Yemassee War ended, Bull established a homestead in the area that would later become Prince William Parish and began cultivating rice on his lands along the Coosaw and Combahee rivers.

With the founding of Beaufort Town in 1711, and as the southern parishes became safer for settlement after 1728, Bull turned his attention to increasing the buffer between Beaufort District and

Spanish Florida. With the support of John Barnwell, head of Indian affairs and commander of the southern defenses of the Colony of South Carolina, defenses were strengthened in the Port Royal area, and a fort was built far south on the Altamaha River. Bull, along with James Oglethorpe, founded the city of Savannah in 1733.

From frontier outpost to parish church

Over the following decade the population south of the Combahee River grew rapidly, and Beaufort Town remained the only community with a church, founded in 1727 to serve the people of Beaufort District and St. Helena Parish. Bull was an ardent Anglican, and travel to worship in Beaufort from his Sheldon lands was arduous, so he and others persuaded the governor to form Prince William Parish in 1745 from land previously part of St. Helena Parish.

The population of the new parish was especially wealthy, as many upriver rice planters had begun cultivating indigo on lands they purchased on the Sea Islands. Led by Bull, they planned a grand new church on land originally granted to Edmund Bellinger in 1698. Reported to be the first Greek Revival temple-style church in the 13 colonies, Prince William Parish Church was built sometime between 1745 and 1753. The name Sheldon Church was used in honor of the Bull family, whose plantation and ancestral home in England were called Sheldon Hall. Later, as the colonies moved toward war, William Bull remained a sympathizer of Royal interests. Some members of his family supported Revolutionary aims, including his nephew, Stephen. Stephen inherited much of the Bull family land in Prince William Parish and became colonel and later general of the Beaufort District militia.

From worship to war

The church and cemetery grounds became a muster point for Patriot forces north of the Broad River. Troops mounted and disbanded patrols there, and close-order drill was practiced on the church and cemetery grounds. When gunpowder was seized from a British ship in waters off Daufuskie Island, South Carolina’s share of 8,000 pounds was stored in the Bull burial vault beneath the church floor. Half of that supply was sent in August to Gen. George Washington’s army in Boston, arriving in October in time to help sustain the siege.

In February 1779 Stephen Bull’s Port Royal Island neighbor Andrew DeVeaux, head of the Loyalist Royal Foresters militia, led a British war party that destroyed Bull’s plantation home as the expeditionary force tried to capture Beaufort. The British were defeated when 300 militiamen and a small number of Continental troops forced the Redcoats to withdraw at the Battle of Port Royal Island. Then, in May of that year, as Gen. Augustine Prevost’s army advanced through Beaufort District toward Charleston, DeVeaux directed a combined British-Loyalist detachment to burn Sheldon Church.

The church was rebuilt following the war. In early 1865, in the wake of Sherman’s march through South Carolina, formerly enslaved men dismantled the church in search of construction materials, and it was never rebuilt. The striking ruins of Old Sheldon Church still stand in present-day Yemassee, evocative of a Greek temple and retaining many of its architectural features. A number of South Carolina’s early leaders are buried in its churchyard. LL

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Patriots and tyrants

THE SOUTH CAROLINA FIGURES AND EVENTS THAT INSPIRED THE PATRIOT

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

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When The Patriot debuted in 2000, Mel Gibson’s Benjamin Martin arrived as a fully formed movie hero: a reluctant warrior drawn back into conflict, a devoted father driven by loss and a master tactician who understood how to strike quickly and disappear. Though fictional, Martin is rooted in South Carolina’s Revolutionary War history. Screenwriter Robert Rodat deliberately avoided modeling Martin after a single historical figure. Instead, he built the character as a composite, drawing inspiration from journals, letters and battlefield accounts of militia leaders who fought across South Carolina during the British Southern Strategy (17781781), when British forces attempted to retake control over the American South and its valuable resources under the belief that there was a significant Loyalist population here. The result is a cinematic hero shaped by real Carolina patriots, grounded in the land, the conflict and the people who lived it.

The hero: Benjamin Martin

Portrayed by Mel Gibson, Benjamin Martin draws his strength from several real Revolutionary War figures, most notably Francis Marion, the legendary Swamp Fox. A native South Carolinian, Marion perfected guerrilla warfare, using the Lowcountry’s rivers, swamps and dense forests to ambush British troops before melting back into the landscape. Martin’s hit-and-run tactics, reliance on terrain and rejection of formal European-style fighting closely echo Marion’s real-life methods. In the film the landscape itself becomes a weapon, just as it did for Marion and his men.

Thomas Sumter, known as The Gamecock, adds emotional fire to the character. Fierce and relentless, Sumter repeatedly returned to battle despite devastating personal and military losses.

That intensity is reflected in Martin’s transformation from a man determined to avoid war into one fueled by grief and resolve. Andrew Pickens contributes moral weight and discipline. Pickens initially wavered in his allegiance before fully committing to the Patriot cause, and he emphasized order and restraint within militia ranks. His influence appears in Martin’s ability to turn ordinary farmers into a coordinated and effective fighting force. Beyond Carolina, the character also draws from leaders such as Daniel Morgan and Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee, commanders respected for their adaptability and unconventional strategies. Together these influences create a hero who feels larger than life yet firmly grounded in the realities of frontier warfare.

While The Patriot compresses timelines and heightens violence for dramatic effect, its emotional core rings true. In this region the Revolutionary War was often fought along rivers, dirt roads and plantations rather than on grand battlegrounds. For local audiences, Benjamin Martin represents the men who knew this landscape intimately and used it to challenge a global empire.

The villain: Colonel William Tavington

Opposing Martin is Colonel William Tavington, played by Jason Isaacs, whose cold brutality makes him one of the film’s most unforgettable figures. The character is loosely inspired by Banastre Tarleton, a British cavalry officer whose name became synonymous with fear across South Carolina during the war.

Tarleton played a prominent role in the British Southern Strategy and was known for swift, aggressive raids intended to intimidate civilians and crush Patriot resistance. In January 1779 he was aboard the HMS Vigilant during British operations in the Beaufort District, including raids along Skull Creek on Hilton Head Island.

Homes were burned, plantations looted, and enslaved people were captured and sold in the West Indies.

After a gale reportedly cost many of his dragoons their horses, Tarleton is said to have confiscated mounts from Hilton Head Island plantations to re-equip his cavalry ahead of the march toward Charleston. His British forces continued inland, burning Thomas Heyward Jr.’s plantation at Whitehall and later attacking militia General Stephen Bull’s Laurel Bay plantation.

A DECISIVE STAND The Cowpens National Battlefield monument in Gaffney marks the site of the Battle of Cowpens, a major turning point during the British Southern Strategy of the Revolutionary War. It’s about a 4 1/2-hour drive, roughly 230 miles, making it a compelling Upstate destination for history-minded travelers.

Tarleton’s reputation was sealed at the Battle of Waxhaws near Lancaster in 1780, where Patriot troops were killed after attempting to surrender. The incident gave rise to the phrase “Tarleton’s Quarter,” meaning no mercy offered, and ignited outrage throughout the backcountry. While The Patriot amplifies his cruelty for cinematic effect, Tarleton’s real actions helped galvanize the very militia resistance he was sent to suppress.

The Battle of Cowpens

In The Patriot, the Battle of Cowpens is portrayed as a chaotic, close-quarters clash driven by individual heroics and sudden reversals, with Benjamin Martin at the center of the action. In reality, Cowpens was a carefully planned and brilliantly executed victory by Brig. Gen. Daniel Morgan on January 17, 1781. Morgan deliberately arranged his forces in three lines, including militia instructed to fire two volleys and then retreat, a move designed to draw Banastre Tarleton’s aggressive troops into a premature charge. When British forces surged forward, they lost cohesion, allowing Continental regulars and returning militia to envelop them in a classic double envelopment. The film captures the spirit of ingenuity and resolve behind the Patriot victory but simplifies the battle’s disciplined strategy and collective coordination, which historians regard as one of the most decisive tactical successes of the Revolutionary War’s British Southern Strategy.

Setting the scene

The story of The Patriot is inseparable from the landscape that shaped it. Filmed entirely on location in South Carolina, the movie grounds its sweeping narrative in the same terrain where the Revolutionary War unfolded. Charleston provided several key backdrops, including Middleton Place and the Cistern Yard on the College of Charleston campus, both of which stood in for Colonial-era public spaces. Mansfield Plantation, an antebellum rice plantation in Georgetown County, supplied atmospheric Lowcountry scenery well suited to the film’s rural settings.

Many battle scenes were filmed near Rock Hill, while Benjamin Martin’s farm was shot in and around Lowrys, with additional scenes filmed at nearby Fort Lawn. Farther north, the Brattonsville Historic District in McConnells played a major role. Hightower Hall, the Homestead House and the surrounding plantation grounds doubled as multiple locations throughout the film.

Producers Mark Gordon and Dean Devlin emphasized historical authenticity, noting that the story demanded respect for the real events behind it. Costume designers studied original Revolutionary War uniforms at the Smithsonian Institution, and locations were chosen to reflect the terrain and architecture that defined the era. LL

roles in

preserved landscapes and buildings to

key

Portions of the Homestead House served as Charlotte Selton’s rural plantation, while the property also doubled as the Continental encampment and interior scenes of the Martin family home. Brattonsville is about a four-hour drive, roughly 215 miles, making it an accessible inland stop for fans of both Revolutionary history and film.

When ‘Midnight’ came to Savannah

A MURDER, A MANUSCRIPT AND THE MOMENT SAVANNAH BECAME A CULTURAL PHENOMENON

STORY BY CAROLYN MALES

MONTEREY SQUARE

Shaded by magnificent live oaks, this beautiful square, with an obelisk commemorating Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski, is framed by elegant homes, including the Mercer House, which takes up a full city block. Location: Bull, Monterey and Wayne streets

The old Candler hospital, named after Methodist Bishop Warren A. Candler, housed the emergency room where Danny Hansford and Jim Williams were taken after the shooting and the morgue where Danny’s body was sent. It now houses the SCAD Deloitte Foundry. Location: 516 Drayton

The crime:

a

A waning crescent moon hung in the sky over Savannah the night Danny Hansford was shot. That slice of moon, traditionally associated with new beginnings, would for the 21-year-old street hustler mean death — a transition to whatever afterlife awaited him. And while those bullets that entered his chest, head and back might have been just facts written up in a coroner’s report leading to the arrest of the perpetrator, in this case it sparked a series of events that would, a decade later, put this quiet city in the national spotlight.

The trigger for the resulting seismic shift in tourism was Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, a 1994 “nonfiction novel” (a la Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood) that centered on that very murder with some re-creations of conversations and events, with a few embellishments and pseudonyms thrown in. It would capture the attention of non-local folks who’d only seen Savannah, if they’d seen it at all, as a quick detour on the way to Florida. Three years later, a Hollywood movie of this bestseller, directed by Clint Eastwood, would bring in new waves of fans.

In the wee hours of that May 1981 morning, after Jim Williams fired his German Luger at Hansford, his young employee and sometime lover, he had finally called the police. Soon the front of Williams’s grand brick mansion and Monterey Square, that it sat across from, would be ablaze with the flashing lights of patrol cars and emergency vehicles. Inside, the scene of the crime revealed an 18thcentury grandfather clock knocked over in

DANNY HANSFORD’S GRAVE Midnight fans leave tokens — a beer can, matchbox cars resembling Danny’s prized black car, blue glass beads and other memorabilia on his grave marker in Greenwich Cemetery, near Bonaventure, its larger and more famous neighbor.

Location: 330 Bonaventure Road/Greenwich Avenue

the hallway leading to the study where Danny’s body, one hand cupped around a pistol, lay face down on a Persian carpet. Williams, the city’s premier antiques dealer, renowned for restoring 50 or so historic Savannah houses and for throwing the city’s “must be seen at” Christmas bash, admitted he’d delivered the fatal shots after Danny, fueled by alcohol and drugs, had gone on a violent rampage. “Self-defense” Williams would plea, pointing to a series of bullet holes embedded in the floor and Williams’s desk and chair — shots he alleged that were fired by his young lover. Meanwhile, a quarter of a mile away just across from Forsythe Park, Dr. David Dorsner had been patching up the sick and wounded who’d come through the emergency entrance of Candler Hospital. When the body of a muscular young blond man with bullet wounds arrived on a gurney, the doctor followed standard procedure, examining and certifying his death before sending it to the morgue’s freezer. Sometime later, the police brought in the suspect, a mustachioed 50-ish man, for a medical check before he was taken to the lockup. For Dorsner, who would later found Hilton Head Island’s first urgent care clinic, it was just a routine night in the ER in an era when many of the city’s old buildings still wore gritty faces, and corpses showing up wasn’t unusual. “In downtown Savannah ‘the knife and gun’ club used to be there — that’s an idiom for people who liked to shoot and stab each other,” he says with dark humor. Little did Dorsner know that on that particular night the actions of one of his nurses would later provide a possible defense that could save the mustachioed suspect he’d checked out. She had noticed that Danny’s hands, which should have been wrapped in paper bags at the crime scene, were bare. So she encased them in plastic — a solid no-no for preserving any gunshot residue that would have been there had Danny fired at Williams first.

The waning moon that night would portend Georgia’s longest running legal battle — four trials, two resulting in guilty verdicts, one mistrial, and finally, in 1989, an acquittal. While the first three trials took place in Savannah, where they were hotly followed. The last was moved to Augusta, where no one seemed to know or care about the case. At this final trial, like the others, the prosecutor Spencer Lawton Jr. claimed that Williams had staged the death scene to make it look like self-defense, firing holes in the wall and placing the gun under Danny’s dead fingers. Williams’s lawyer, the colorful Sonny Seiler, (noted for owning a series of University of Georgia bulldog mascots — all named Uga) decried “the sloppy crime-scene work.” The failure to bag Danny’s hands at the scene, he noted, meant any hard evidence to prove Danny had fired off shots at his lover might have been lost. The antique dealer’s celebratory victory, however, was short-lived. A few months later, on the way to feed his pet cat, he dropped dead in the study where Danny drew his last breath. Cause of death: heart failure and pneumonia.

HOUSE The Civil War delayed the completion of this block-long mansion that was started for Hugh W. Mercer, songwriter Johnny Mercer’s greatgrandfather, who would never live there. Completed in 1868, the grand Italianate home would serve as a residence for a cotton merchant and, in the mid-20th century, as a temple for the Shriners before Jim Williams restored it and filled it with beautiful antiques. Today, it’s a museum. Location: 429 Bull St.

The book

How does a book help change a city’s fortune? Obviously, there were many other forces at work that brought about the city’s renaissance. But one March day, a year or so later when Berendt, a New York magazine writer and editor, stepped into the warm Savannah sunlight, he’d immediately become intoxicated by the city’s beauty, its culture, and, yes, its colorful collection of eccentrics. Later he would rent a place downtown and stay on, befriending Jim Williams and an assortment of the city’s blue bloods, entertainers and amusing oddballs.

Who can forget Luther Diggers sitting at Clary’s counter, contemplating his breakfast as flies he’d glued to strings circled his head and a vial of poison (enough to poison the city’s water supply) sat tucked in his pocket? And oh, the music! Miss Emma Kelly, lady of 6,000 songs, answering requests on her piano at her namesake club until the financial shenanigans of her partner, slipshod lawyer Joe Odom, brought the club to financial ruin. What’s more, when that genial legal reprobate wasn’t kiting checks or skipping out on rent, he was hosting roundthe-clock, open-door parties where folks could drop in to hear him tickle the ivories and then duck into the kitchen to be coifed by a stylist stationed among the pots and pans.

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Meantime, as all this and the trial progressed, the uber-extroverted Lady Chablis, a female impersonator, would sashay her way through the action.

But it was Minerva, the Gullah-Geechee conjure woman, whose ministrations influenced the book’s title. Berendt would accompany Williams and Minerva to a graveyard, where she would perform rites over the grave of Dr. Buzzard, the legendary Gullah-Geechee root doctor. Fifteen minutes before midnight would be the time to do good. Then at the stroke of midnight the next 15 would be for consorting with evil. Armed with herbs, graveyard dirt and an array of rituals, Minerva, her eyes shielded by purple-lensed glasses, would “chew the root,” exerting her spiritual influence over courtroom proceedings.

The resulting bestseller, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, has often been called “a love letter to Savannah." Berendt’s vast canvas of quirky characters, framed by live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, perfumed by magnolias and fueled by mint juleps, is infused with affection. Throw in that touch of Hoodoo with native son Johnny Mercer’s songs as background music, and there’s plenty of Southern Gothic to keep one turning pages. And readers did. The book sat on the New York Times bestseller list for a record-breaking four years. Bus tours based on “The Book” would cruise Savannah streets, and fans would roam from site to site, the book with its iconic cover of the Bird Girl statue in BonaventureCemetery tucked under their arms.

THE DIRECTOR

CLARY’S CAFE

The backdrop for some of Midnight’s colorful characters, even today is this 123-year-old eatery is where Savannahians still get their eggs or burgers along with doses of gossip. Location: 404 Abercorn St.

BONAVENTURE CEMETERY Live oaks, palms and statuary grace this scenic burial place on the Wilmington River, which holds the graves of Johnny Mercer, Conrad Aiken and other local notables. Midnight fans still swarm over the burial site where the Bird Girl sculpture by Sylvia Shaw Judson once stood. The family that owned the plot gifted the iconic statue to the Telfair Museum, where it can be viewed today.

Location: 330 Bonaventure Road

Clint Eastwood comes to town

It’s 1997 and it’s not unusual to spot director Clint Eastwood in and around Bull Street and beyond. Savannahians may have enjoyed bumping into Tinseltown royalty at the time, but avid fans of Berendt’s Midnight would decry its Hollywoodization of the town.

Shoehorning the action of a 338-page book, especially one that encompasses a cityscape of characters and plot, as did Midnight, into a twohour movie is no easy task. In the end, some characters faded in and out. Lady Chablis would become a major scene stealer, showing up both in places she had actually been (like crashing the Black debutante ball), but also strutting into places she hadn’t been (like in the witness box at Williams’s trial).

The timeline too would be flattened and distorted. Unlike the author who’d come to Savannah on the heels of the second trial, John Cusack, playing the Berendt-based character, would arrive in town in time to attend Williams’s Christmas gala, and Danny would meet his untimely fate that very same night after the festivities had ended.

In the aftermath, the reporter would form a romantic attachment with one of Joe Odom’s ill-fated nightclub business partners, played by Clint Eastwood’s daughter Allison. As for Williams? Kevin Spacey portrayed him as suave and smart (but perhaps a bit more subdued than the reallife antiques dealer) who kills a very photogenic Danny (Jude Law). And, happily for the movie Williams, he got a much speedier acquittal when the real-life four trials were collapsed into one. LL

Built for the shot

SCAD’S BACKLOT AND THE MAKING OF MOVIE MAGIC

STORY BY CAROLYN MALES + PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SCAD

iI’m standing in a graffiti-scarred urban alley with rusty beat-up trash cans and dumpster. Yet there’s none of the expected rancid garbage smell. Nor do I see or hear rats scuttling by. That being said, on any particular day, on cue, some prop or virtual “pests” could show up. Now leaving this gritty backstreet, I turn a corner and come face-to-face with a weathered gas station that looks straight out of No Country for Old Men, with pumps offering 89-cents-a-gallon gas. Stepping inside, I can unfurl a paper map or pick up a guidebook to help navigate the back roads of some forbidding landscape. A little further on, I arrive at a low-slung motel right out of Florida or perhaps Palm Springs circa 1950. At the moment it appears to be the kind of accommodations that would appeal to gangsters on the lam or a couple checking in for a tryst. Cue the cigarette smoke and Sinatra ballads.

Please welcome Carrie Alexander, MD.

Board-certified in internal medicine

Bringing remarkable primary care to the Lowcountry

We are pleased to welcome Carrie Alexander, MD, back to the Lowcountry. Dr. Alexander views patient care as a partnership that results in a care plan to promote health and focus on preventing issues before they start. After 25 years of practice, she understands that every patient has different goals and needs. Her most enjoyable days at work are when she can congratulate patients on achieving any health goal they agreed upon. She is married with two grown children who were her motivation to return to the Lowcountry. We are so happy to have Dr. Alexander join our care team and look forward to the positive impact she will have in our community.

To schedule an appointment, call 854-235-2830

Novant Health Westbury Park Primary Care

29 Plantation Park Drive, Suite 203, Bluffton, SC 29910

854-235-2830 | Fax: 854-235-2835

My journey continues through this cinematic multipurposed landscape where I find myself standing in front of a stately brick-columned building. A governor’s mansion? A library? A frat house? It could be any of those, or more. Another turn and I’m in Brooklyn or perhaps St. Louis or Chicago. Entering a front door in a row of brownstones, I discover I can walk straight through a passage leading from one building’s furnished parlor to those of the others. Depending upon which one I linger in, today I can be a Victorian lady or a Jazz Age sophisticate or a modern city-dweller with a penchant for historic houses. All of these buildings and more are within a few minutes' walking distance, and I haven’t even left Savannah.

Okay, my imagination is running away with me, but that’s because I’m exploring the 11-acre studio complex and back lot that SCAD, the Savannah College of Art and Design, has built on its Savannah Film Studios campus off Louisville Road. It is, in fact, the largest university film studio complex in the country. And it’s one that SCAD looks forward to seeing not only the university’s emerging film makers but movie companies coming here to film, using students to work alongside professionals on their productions.

The day I’m here, other than the pounding from contractors working on new sound stages (which at 9,000 square feet will be the only commercial-grade sound stage in Savannah), 13 classrooms and more back-lot spaces, it’s quiet. But arrive on another day, especially after the final section of the back lot is finished this fall, and you might find casts and crews filming, or students working to convert a façade or outfit an interior, most of which are oneroom deep, to fit a particular script. What’s more, classes often take place in situ, right inside a chosen set like the “bookstore” or “restaurant.”

On this day, my tour guide is Andra Reeve-Rabb, SCAD’s Dean of the School of Film and Acting. She came to the college 16 years ago with a portfolio that included Director of Prime-time Casting for CBS Television for shows like The Big Bang Theory, the CSI franchise, Two and a Half Men, as well as stints scouting talent for film companies like Castle Rock. At SCAD she set about creating the country’s only university with a casting office. As a result, alumni and students alike might find themselves on Broadway or working on movie and TV productions across the globe.

Here's where I say, “Oh, how I wish I could redo my college career and have this kind of opportunity.” Apparently, I’m not the first person to voice this wish. Reeve-Rabb’s connections and those of actor-director-writerproducer D.W. Moffett, SCAD’s Chair of Film and Television, along with

— Phil & Vickie M.

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At Play Custom Home Technology and Coastal Lighting Studio, our work goes beyond the beauty of the home. It’s driven by something deeper — service. To our clients.

To our community. And to a legacy that matters. Our entire team is unified by a higher purpose:

To serve those who serve others.

That purpose now lives even stronger in honor of Jillian Angner, a loving mother, daughter, and light in every room she entered — whose life was taken too soon by a senseless act of violence. Through her foundation, we carry forward her spirit of compassion, empowerment, and protection for others.

other industry-connected staffers, have resulted in some extraordinary experiences. Picture actor Ted Levine, directed by students, running down that seedy “New York” alley. Or Spike Lee teaching an immersive class and Natalie Portman doing an acting workshop for students when she was in town shooting May December

Then there was Tony and Grammy Award-winner Hamilton actor Leslie Odom Jr. capping a 10-week class he taught with a cabaret staged at SCAD’s Gryphon Tea Room, featuring students he’d selected from auditions. One of the students, Eli Talley, had so dazzled Odom, he’d recommended him to the Broadway producers of The Outsiders, who cast him for the role of Ponyboy Curtis in the show.

The LED Volume stages

Let’s say you’re a filmmaker with a scene that requires a harrowing scramble away from an out-of-control subway train seconds before it comes rumbling down the track. How do you film it so it feels real with heart-stopping action without severing limbs? That’s where the state-of-the-art LED Volume Stage comes in. On one of these soundstages, we encounter a grimy subway platform with fallen pillars and debris, a stage set that SCAD production design students have constructed to film an apocalyptic scene. Once the actors arrive here, cue “lights, camera, action.” Behind them on the 40x20x17-foot wall screen display with 600 LED panels, a train that a crew had filmed earlier in a real-life train station and then digitalized by game design students will come roaring in. Projected in 3D, powered by stateof-the-art camera, tracking system and gaming technology, the train will seem as if it’s bearing down in real time, looking and sounding so menacing that even the actors on the set may break out into a genuine sweat, one not necessarily applied by the make-up artist.

“Here you can create an entire world in one room, digitally,” Reeve-Rabb points out, “so multiple projects can be shot here at the same time. We’ve shot on the moon in one hour in the studio and literally shot in the Serengeti in the next. It speeds up production and saves money.”

Costumes and sets

Exiting the back lot, we enter the production design building. Here we find costume shop production manager Shannon McCurdy amid the rows of sewing machines. She walks over to what is playfully referred to as “The Clueless Closet,” triggering a switch that sets a big industrial rotating rack in motion. Vintage dresses, uniforms, medieval tabards, glittery gowns all circle before our eyes. Behind them sit bins with items like half-slips, boxer shorts, tee shirts — all available for study or production use. We conclude our tour at the shop where high-tech props and set pieces are fabricated for SCAD productions. I’m expecting to see sawdust from woodcutting or paint splatter or welding debris amid the worktables and machinery, but today there’s not a speck anywhere. All the tools are neatly stowed. Of course. SCAD being SCAD, it’s an esthetically pleasing space to hold industrial classes.

As I’m leaving, Reeve-Rabb exclaims, “Every day there’s a new building, a new idea, a new technology. Come back in a week, and it will all be different.” A façade will be transformed. A “hospital building” may turn into “a Hampton Inn.” A diner right out of an Edward Hopper Nighthawk painting may come to life. Who knows what movie magic will happen next? LL

February 3 –27, 2026

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance

Opening Reception: Wednesday, February 4 • 5-7pm

Enjoy refreshments and meet the artists

Free and open to the public

LARGE ART EXHIBIT

Preserving a legacy

HOW PHOTOGRAPHER AND ACTIVIST JEANNE MOUTOUSSAMY-ASHE, WIDOW OF TENNIS LEGEND ARTHUR ASHE, TURNED HER VISION INTO OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL GULLAH-GEECHEE FAMILIES

STORY BY JAMES JOLLY

When Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe first set foot on Daufuskie Island in 1977, she wasn’t just visiting another corner of the Lowcountry. She was stepping into a community that carried the soul of a culture.

Accessible only by boat and sitting just south of Hilton Head, Daufuskie was then home to an insular Gullah-Geechee community. Its roots stretched back to West Africa, its traditions woven from generations of resilience, survival and connection to the land and sea. Moutoussamy-Ashe, a photographer and activist, was immediately drawn in. She began documenting everyday life: Sunday services, crab boils, children playing along oyster-strewn creeks. Each moment spoke to the grit and grace of a people holding tight to their heritage.

Her work, which has since appeared in galleries and publications around the world, offered a window into a culture many had never seen and helped raise global awareness of the Gullah-Geechee story. But Moutoussamy-Ashe didn’t stop with the camera. In 2021 she put her commitment into action by creating a scholarship at the University of South Carolina Beaufort. Her hope was simple and profound: to make higher education more accessible for local GullahGeechee families.

“My goal was an effort to make education as comfortable and as accessible as possible for the families of the Gullah-Geechee and their legacies,” she explained.

The result was the Daufuskie Island Gullah-Geechee Endowed Scholarship, available only to students who can trace their ancestry to the community. One of those students is Quintilian “Q” Fields, Class of 2025, whose story embodies both the challenges and the promise the scholarship was designed to support.

Raised in rural Seabrook, Fields is the oldest of six children and a proud son of the Lowcountry. After graduating from Whale Branch Early College High School in 2022 with enough credits to start at USCB as a junior, he quickly made his mark. He became a resident assistant and student ambassador, joined the Pre-Professionals Club and still found time for intramural sports. His efforts earned him the Outstanding First-Year Student Award in 2023 and the honor of serving as USCB’s first-ever homecoming king the following year.

BORN TO SERVE

Arthur Ashe’s ties to the Lowcountry ran deeper than family visits to Daufuskie with his wife, Jeanne. They also unfolded on the courts of Hilton Head Island. Just months after his stunning Wimbledon victory over Jimmy Connors in 1975, Ashe competed in an eight-player invitational here, a sign that the island was becoming a serious stop in the tennis world.

SELF-PORTRAIT, 2017, SOUTH KENT, CT. Photographer, activist and storyteller Moutoussamy-Ashe has spent decades capturing the spirit of Gullah-Geechee culture and preserving its legacy for future generations.

He returned the following year and edged rival Ilie Nastase in a tense final to claim the 1976 World Invitational.

Ashe’s story, of course, reaches far beyond the court. After contracting HIV from a 1983 blood transfusion during heart surgery, he devoted the rest of his life to raising awareness.

He founded both the Arthur Ashe Foundation for the Defeat of AIDS and the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health before he died at age 49 in 1993. In the years since, his legacy has only grown. President Bill Clinton awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously, and the main stadium at the U.S. Open now bears his name. In 2015 Hilton Head again entered his story when the Professional Tennis Registry honored Ashe with induction into its Hall of Fame, celebrating not only his championships but also his enduring influence as a teacher and advocate for the game.

Join the owners of Wild Birds Unlimited Hilton Head for every aspect of backyard birding. From equipment and outings, to solutions and resources.

Cedar waxwings often ignore seeds, but love fruits and berries. An offering of fresh or frozen berries — blueberries, strawberries and raspberries — are always on the menu. Platform feeders work best. Shallow dishes or even a flat board mounted near shrubs are perfect for quick access.

A bird bath is often just as attractive as food. Waxwings love bathing, especially during warmer months.

45 YEARS CELEBRATING OF SAVING SONGBIRDS

Fields has his sights set on family medicine. With the scholarship clearing his path, he has pursued every opportunity to prepare for that future. He studied DNA nanotechnology during a selective research program at Rutgers, completed clinical rounds through Prisma Health’s MedEx Academy and shadowed physicians across the Lowcountry. In 2024 he capped off his summer with a medical mission trip to Uganda, gaining perspective that stretched well beyond the classroom.

When Fields accepted his diploma in May 2025, summa cum laude, he vowed not to walk away from the Lowcountry. He is currently back home, preparing for the MCAT and working as a Certified Medical Assistant at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. When he’s done with medical school, he plans to live and practice in the Lowcountry—and give back to his community. When he’s done with medical school, he hopes to set up a practice and serve the same communities that shaped him.

Related reading

Stories like his show the lasting power of one person’s vision. Moutoussamy-Ashe, the widow of tennis legend Arthur Ashe, came to Daufuskie with a camera. She left with a purpose. And today, students like Fields are carrying that purpose and the GullahGeechee legacy forward. LL

THE NEXT CHAPTER A recipient of the Daufuskie Island GullahGeechee Endowed Scholarship at USCB, Quintilian Fields plans to return to the Lowcountry after medical school to serve his community.

25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF DAUFUSKIE

ISLAND: PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEANNE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEANNE MOUTOUSSAMY-ASHE

Between 1977 and 1981, Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe ferried over to Daufuskie with her camera and came back with something much larger than photographs. She captured daily life in a Gullah community: children bent over schoolwork, neighbors casting nets and laughing together, traditions carried out under the reach of live oaks and alongside clapboard houses that had seen better days. Those images now read like a time capsule, a record of a place reshaped by development and rising property values. The 25th Anniversary Edition includes never-before-published photos, offering an even deeper look at a culture whose influence still hums through the Lowcountry. Moutoussamy-Ashe, widow to tennis legend Arthur Ashe, often visited the island with him, preserving not only its spirit but also the enduring story of its people.

SALLIE ANN ROBINSON’S KITCHEN BY SALLIE ANN ROBINSON

In her third cookbook, Daufuskie native Sallie Ann Robinson invites readers to pull up a chair at her table. A daughter of the island, Robinson grew up in the Gullah tradition, where hunting, fishing and gardening weren’t hobbies but necessities. Her recipes carry the flavor of that heritage, from Belly-Fillin’ Carolina Country Boil to ’Fuskie Shrimp and Blue Crab Burgers. Alongside the dishes, she shares stories full of wit and island wisdom, giving readers a taste of both the food and the spirit that shaped her.

DAUFUSKIE DAZE

BY JIM ALBERTO

Imagine being newly married, fresh out of college and signing on to teach in a one-room schoolhouse on an island without a bridge. That was Jim and Carol Alberto’s reality when they moved to Daufuskie. Getting groceries meant timing the tides, and classroom lessons took a backseat to the everyday resourcefulness of their students. The Albertos, in turn, got an education of their own during nine years on the island, learning survival skills and the rhythms of a life far removed from the mainland. Daufuskie Daze is part love story, part crash course in island living, and all heart.

THE WATER IS WIDE

BY PAT CONROY

Before he became a literary giant, Pat Conroy spent a year teaching on a remote Sea Island he called Yamacraw. Cut off from the mainland, the families who lived there were proud, self-reliant and nearly forgotten. Conroy’s students faced classrooms with few supplies and futures hemmed in by poverty. His book is part memoir, part social critique, and wholly a love letter to the people who changed his life. Nearly 50 years later, The Water is Wide still resonates as a haunting reminder of isolation, resilience and the bonds forged in one small schoolhouse by the sea.

IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

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For 40 years, Charter One Realty has been the trusted leader in Lowcountry real estate, serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, Savannah, and beyond. Built on integrity, relationships, and community, our founding values still guide everything we do today.

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With $1.68 billion in sales last year, Charter One Realty remains the #1 real estate company in the Lowcountry. Thank you for 40 incredible years of trust. Here’s to many more.

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Movie Magic

The art in a song or film or image lands in our well-worn jeans speaks a feeling at the moment we need an interpreter. How does one answer a way-too-serious question? Perhaps, like young Frankenstein’s Abby-Normal Brain, or by turning Up to 11, the best-impossible amp setting for satire and tinnitus, over-the-top for Spinal Tap. Following Inego Montoya’s quest, his repeated You killed my father. Prepare to die, lends a serious endnote to a Princess Bride who fields absurd marriage proposals and Rodents of Unusual Size.

In film we find our mantras, moments of truth and fallibility, as did a father’s last dance in Life is Beautiful. Even in the future nothing works, for Spaceballs or Earthlings. A life as a box of chocolates sounds delicious, but that one weird filler? Blich!

So when that college kid thinks Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? It’s a ballpark leap we let go, ‘Cause he’s on a roll. Watching comedy is hard without the context to find the funny. Dazed and Confused, We just gotta keep livin’, man. And Monty Python agrees, counts lopped limbs to conclude It’s only a flesh wound.

Which may be why the flipped-around Barbie village or any created world, exposes a real one to laughing tears And one moment

where we connect.

— The Pop-up Poets of Hilton Head

WHAT’S FRESH IN FEBRUARY?

Basil, bright and bold

A FRAGRANT FAVORITE THAT BRINGS FLAVOR, HISTORY AND FRESH ENERGY TO WINTER KITCHENS

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

A storied sprig

Known by many names and varieties, basil’s roots stretch far beyond the modern kitchen. Botanically classified as Ocimum basilicum, it belongs to the mint family alongside rosemary, sage and lavender. Thought to have originated in India more than 5,000 years ago, basil traveled west through trade routes, eventually taking hold in the Mediterranean and beyond. Historical records place it in China as early as the ninth century, while ancient cultures used it for everything from medicine to ritual. In Egypt it was linked to burial rites. In Greece, it carried symbolic meaning tied to royalty and mourning. Over time, basil became a culinary cornerstone, especially in Italian and Southeast Asian cooking, valued as much for its aroma as its flavor.

Few herbs are as instantly recognizable, or as universally loved, as basil. With its sweet, peppery aroma and hint of mint, it brings depth to everything from classic Italian sauces to Thai curries and fresh winter salads. Beyond its familiar flavor, basil carries a rich history, surprising health benefits and a versatility that earns it a year-round spot in the kitchen. Whether you’re growing it at home, picking it up at the farmers market or adding a final flourish to dinner, basil has a way of making food feel more alive.

ROASTED AND READY

Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper until they blister and caramelize, then toss them with hot pasta so every strand soaks up their rich, jammy juices. Add fresh basil, a few capers or a touch of garlic, and finish with a generous drizzle of olive oil. Toss until glossy and well coated, then serve warm with extra basil and a shower of grated Parmesan. It’s simple, satisfying and proof that a few good ingredients can do all the work.

WINTER REFRESHER Bright, crisp and refreshingly unexpected, this basil-kissed lemonade is a cool sip that brings a splash of green to winter days when you’re craving something light and lively. Muddle fresh basil with a splash of lemon juice to release its aroma, then add sliced kiwi to balance the tartness. Pour in chilled lemon soda or sparkling water, stir gently, and finish with plenty of ice. Garnish with extra basil and citrus slices for a bright, refreshing drink with a subtle kick.

Herbal remedy

Basil does more than taste good. It’s rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health. Studies suggest compounds in basil may help regulate blood sugar, support heart health and reduce oxidative stress. Its essential oils contain antibacterial properties, and its natural compounds have been linked to improved circulation and lower cholesterol. While it’s no replacement for medicine, basil earns its place as one of the most beneficial herbs you can keep on hand.

Green gardening

Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow, especially in the Lowcountry’s long, warm seasons. It thrives in pots, raised beds or sunny kitchen windows and needs about six to eight hours of light each day. Consistent moisture is key, but soggy soil is not. In peak summer heat, a little afternoon shade helps prevent wilting. Seeds typically sprout within a week, and plants are ready for harvesting in about a month. Regular trimming encourages fuller growth, while pinching off flower buds keeps leaves tender and flavorful. Skip heavy fertilizing. Basil prefers modest conditions, and too much fertilizer can dull its signature taste.

Choosing good basil is a sensory experience. Look for leaves that are bright, perky and unblemished, with no signs of yellowing or bruising. Fresh basil should smell fragrant even before it’s cut. While sweet basil is the most common, varieties like Thai, lemon and purple basil offer their own aromas and flavor profiles. A quick rub between your fingers should release a clean, lively scent. If it smells flat or looks limp, keep walking.

Keep it fresh

How you store basil matters. Grocery store clamshells tend to dry out quickly, while bunches with stems last longer when treated like fresh flowers. Trim the ends, and place the stems in a glass of room-temperature water, changing it every couple of days. For loose leaves, gently wash and dry them, then layer between paper towels in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Basil doesn’t love the cold, but this method helps extend its life. For longer storage, freeze whole or chopped leaves, or preserve them in olive oil, using ice cube trays for easy cooking portions.

Pack a punch

Basil’s versatility shines in both simple and complex dishes. Its flavor deepens when cooked but stays brightest when added at the end. Chef Will Overacre of Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana suggests using basil to finish flatbreads, pizzas and pastas, or blending it into pesto, aioli or even a creamy alfredo. It pairs naturally with tomatoes, olive oil and cheese but also shines in stir-fries, cocktails and salads. Fresh basil adds lift and clarity, while dried basil brings warmth to soups and sauces. Use each where it shines, and don’t be afraid to let it take center stage.

Finishing touch

Fresh and dried basil each have their moment in the kitchen. Fresh basil is bright, sweet and lightly minty, perfect for salads, garnishes, caprese and any dish that benefits from a burst of freshness at the end. Dried basil leans deeper and earthier, making it better suited for long-simmered sauces, soups and stews where its flavor can slowly unfold. Add dried basil early to build depth, and save fresh basil for the final flourish to preserve its aroma and color. Olive oil and a splash of lemon help carry basil’s delicate oils, enhancing both versions. When in doubt, add it last. A handful of fresh leaves can turn a good dish into something memorable. LL

Pesto

Fresh, vibrant and impossibly aromatic, this classic pesto captures basil at its peak: blended with olive oil, nuts and cheese into a sauce that’s as simple as it is unforgettable.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons pine nuts 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more if needed for desired consistency)

1 small garlic clove, peeled 1/4 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS [1] In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic and salt. Pulse until roughly chopped. [2] With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed. [3] Add a pinch more salt or a little extra olive oil if needed.

FRESH WAYS TO USE BASIL

Looking to move beyond pesto? These easy, unexpected ideas let basil shine in both sweet and savory ways.

Strawberry-basil shortcakes: Toss sliced strawberries with sugar and finely chopped basil. Spoon over biscuits or angel food cake for a twist on a classic dessert.

Basil butter: Mix softened butter with minced basil, a pinch of salt and lemon zest. Spread on warm bread, melt over grilled fish or finish steamed vegetables.

Tomato-basil ice cubes: Freeze chopped basil with a splash of tomato juice or water. Drop into soups, Bloody Marys or pasta sauces for instant flavor.

Basil oil drizzle: Blanch basil briefly, blend with olive oil, and strain for a bright green oil that adds color and aroma to soups, eggs or roasted vegetables.

Herb-packed scrambled eggs: Fold chopped basil into eggs just before they finish cooking. The heat releases the aroma without dulling the flavor.

Basil-infused simple syrup: Simmer equal parts sugar and water with a handful of basil, then strain. Use in cocktails, mocktails or over fresh fruit.

Grilled basil skewers: Thread whole basil leaves between cherry tomatoes or peaches, brush lightly with oil, and grill just until wilted. The flavor turns smoky and sweet.

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Local flavor: Tinseltown edition

lA DELICIOUS LOOK AT FOOD’S STARRING ROLE ON SCREEN

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Lights dim, the screen flickers on, and food steps into the spotlight. In the movies, meals do more than fill a scene. They signal romance, comfort, celebration and even tension. A shared plate of pasta, a carefully mixed cocktail or a bowl of popcorn passed down the couch can anchor a moment in memory long after the credits roll. This month’s Local Flavor explores the delicious intersection of storytelling and the kitchen. From iconic on-screen dishes and unexpected ingredients to chef-driven inspiration and elevated movie-night ideas, the following pages celebrate how food helps move the story forward.

THE PASTA MOMENT When Lady and the Tramp premiered in 1955, it forever linked spaghetti and meatballs with romance. Two dogs, one plate and a single strand of pasta turned a humble meal into a cinematic icon. While the pairing isn’t traditional in Italy, it became popular in the United States as Italian immigrants adapted Old World cooking to New World abundance. That evolution mirrors Chef Nunzio Patruno’s dish: classic technique shaped by family, place and memory. Food on film works the same way. It’s never just what’s on the plate, but what it represents. Here a bowl of spaghetti tells a love story, one worth revisiting again and again.

NUNZIO RESTAURANT + BAR

Polpette di Mamma

Angelina with Spaghetti

Few movie moments are as unforgettable as the spaghetti scene in Lady and the Tramp. Under a glowing streetlamp, with “Bella Notte” playing softly, two dogs share one plate of pasta, proving that the simplest meal can carry the most romance. That magic inspires this deeply personal dish from Chef Nunzio Patruno: his mother’s Pugliese-style meatballs served with spaghetti and San Marzano tomato sauce. Rooted in family tradition, the recipe is all about restraint. Tender meatballs enriched with soaked bread and Pecorino simmer in a straightforward tomato sauce, letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. It’s comfort food with heart, perfectly in step with a theme that celebrates food’s most memorable moments on film.

INGREDIENTS (meatballs)

11/2 pounds ground beef or veal

1 pound stale bread, soaked in water and squeezed dry

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 teaspoon parsley, chopped

1 cup Pecorino cheese, grated

1 pinch oregano

3 eggs

Salt and pepper, to taste Flour, for dusting Olive oil, for frying

DIRECTIONS[1] In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until smooth and free of lumps. [2] Roll about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into meatballs. Lightly dust with flour. [3] Fry the meatballs in oil at 350 degrees until golden. Set aside.

INGREDIENTS (sauce)

1 whole onion, sliced

1 ounce olive oil

1 cup peeled San Marzano plum tomatoes

2 ounces white wine

DIRECTIONS[1] In a large sauté pan, cook the sliced onions in olive oil until golden. [2] Add white wine and San Marzano tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes. [3] Add meatballs to the sauce, and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

INGREDIENTS (spaghetti)

1 pound spaghetti, any brand

DIRECTIONS [1] Cook spaghetti in generously salted boiling water. Do not add oil. Cooking time typically ranges from 7 to 11 minutes, depending on the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. [2] Drain and toss the spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs. [3] Finish with fresh basil and Parmigiano Reggiano. Serve warm.

November 1, 2025 — February 28, 2026

open daily at 5pm sunday brunch 11-2 call for reservations 843-802-4744

WHAT CHEFS LOVE

CASSANDRA'S KITCHEN STORE

“Barefoot Contessa. I love to look for inspiration of what to cook next."

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CACTUS STREET CANTINA

“I love Top Chef because they’re so talented, and the challenge Restaurant Wars is one of my favorites. It’s amazing to see what they come up with.”

– Tracy Wilson

TRUFFLES CAFÉ

“Beat Bobby Flay, because of all of the different styles of cooking represented on the show.”

– Price Beall

MICHAEL ANTHONY’S CUCINA ITALIANA

“My favorite show is The Mind of a Chef. It was produced by Anthony Bourdain and ran for 6-7 seasons. It was on PBS and included some of my favorite chefs, David Chang and Sean Brock."

– Chef Will Overacre

LULU KITCHEN

“It’s an oldie but a goodie: Great Chefs of the World. I used to run home after school to watch it, as it came on at around 3. Chefs like Albert and Michel Roux, Bernard Loiseau and Raymond Blanc had fantastic dishes. This show was the inspiration for my own culinary journey.”

– Chef Scott Hastings

ASK THE CHEF

Dear Chef,

I’ve tried recreating dishes while watching my favorite cooking shows, but I struggle to keep up. Do you have any tips or advice for following along?

— Simmering near South Beach

Dear Simmering,

Question: Answer:

Benjamin Harris, executive chef at The Sea Pines Resort, suggests taking the pressure off and shifting your mindset. Instead of trying to cook in real time, use what you see on screen as inspiration, not instruction.

“You are correct, it’s very challenging to watch a recipe and cook it at the same time,” he said. “If I see a video or recipe that interests me, I like to use it as inspiration. That is the fun thing about cooking. The exact amount of, say, celery in a stock you are making is how much you prefer to put in it — tasting throughout the process and adjusting.”

Part of that ease comes from preparing like a pro. Cooking shows rarely show the prep, but every chef relies on it. Chop, measure and organize everything before you turn on the stove. That behind-the-scenes step, known as mise en place, makes the actual cooking calmer and far more enjoyable.

Harris also encourages home cooks to focus less on timing and more on what’s happening in the pan. Television edits out waiting, so don’t cook to the clock. Cook to the moment. Look for visual cues, aromas and texture to tell you when something is ready.

That flexibility is the point, Harris says. Recipes are road maps, not rules. “Use the recipe to guide you, but really make it your own. Cooking can also be a shared experience — include children and family members in the process.”

The takeaway? Watch first, cook second. Prep ahead. Trust your senses. Adjust as you go. Even the chefs on TV aren’t chasing perfection. They’re chasing flavor, connection and a little joy along the way.

Tempting soul food with full bar service, premium sports, and musical entertainment featuring local and regional artists. Check music lineup online for special covers.

HOW TO MATCH ICONIC FILMS WITH LOCAL TAKEOUT

STORY BY CARRIE HIRSCH

m Dinner and a movie

Movies and food have always shared the spotlight. Who can forget Robert Castellano’s ad-libbed line in The Godfather (1972), “Leave the gun; take the cannoli,” or Estelle Reiner’s unforgettable deli declaration in When Harry Met Sally (1989), “I’ll have what she’s having.” Moments like these live on well beyond the credits, shaping how we remember films and what we crave while watching them. If you’re planning a cozy movie night at home, pairing the right film with the right food can turn a simple evening into something cinematic.

MOVIE NIGHT MADE EASY Craving comfort food without the hassle of cooking from scratch? The Market Cafe at Michael Anthony’s offers family meals to go, like this handcrafted frozen lasagna. Pop it in the oven, cue up an Italian film, and let dinner carry you comfortably through the closing credits.

Italian

“The Godfather” (1972), “Big Night” (1996), “Moonstruck” (1987), “Under the Tuscan Sun” (2003), “Eat, Pray, Love” (2010) Best bets: Nunzio, Ombra, Michael Anthony’s, Pomodori, Frankie Bones

French

“Ratatouille” (2007), “Julie & Julia” (2009), “Babette’s Feast” (1987), “Chocolat” (2000), “Amélie” (2001) Best bets: Chez Georges, Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte, Bistro 17, The French Bakery

New York deli/diner

“Crossing Delancey” (1988), “When Harry Met Sally” (1989), “Annie Hall” (1977), “You’ve Got Mail” (1998), “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (2017) Best bets: Gruby’s New York Deli, Bess’ Delicatessen, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe

British/pub fare

"The Trip” (2010), “Notting Hill” (1999), “Paddington” (2014), “About Time” (2013), “Bridget Jones’s Diary” (2001) Best bets: British Open Pub, Earle of Sandwich Pub, Hilton Head Tavern Japanese

“Jiro Dreams of Sushi” (2011), “Tampopo” (1985), “Eat, Drink, Man, Woman” (1994), “Our Little Sister” (2015), “Midnight Diner” (2014) Best bets: Hinoki, OKKO, Sake House, Jinya Indian

“The Hundred-Foot Journey” (2014), “The Lunchbox” (2013), “Monsoon Wedding” (2001), “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (1995), “Lion" (2016) Best bet: Masala Mantra

Mexican/Latin

“Chef” (2014), “Coco” (2017), “Like Water for Chocolate” (1992), “Roma” (2018), “Y Tu Mamá También” (2001) Best bets: Tio’s, Fiesta Fresh, San Miguel’s, Mi Tierra

Seafood/coastal

“Jaws” (1975), “Forrest Gump” (1994), “The Big Blue” (1988), “Blue Crush” (2002), “The Perfect Storm” (2000) Best bets: Hudson’s, The Sea Shack, The SandBar, ELA’s On the Water, Red Fish, Salty Dog Cafe

Southern comfort

“Steel Magnolias” (1989), "Fried Green Tomatoes” (1991), “The Help” (2011), "Sweet Home Alabama” (2002), “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” (2000) Best bets: Ruby Lee’s, One Hot Mama’s, Bullies BBQ, Annie O’s

Tips for planning a movie dinner

Plan your menu around the movie’s cuisine: Themed food adds a playful layer to the viewing experience.

Mix ready-to-eat and freshly prepared: Order from local restaurants for authenticity, but add a simple homemade touch (like freshly baked bread, a small salad or garnishes) to enhance the experience.

Think portion sizes: Finger foods or shareable plates make snacking easier and prevent distraction from the film. Small bowls, tapas-style plates or meatballs/spaghetti bites are ideal.

Pair drinks wisely: Wine, cocktails, craft sodas or even a fun mocktail that matches the cuisine can enhance the theme without overpowering the flavors.

Set the scene: Dim the lights, arrange your table or board attractively, and serve dishes in easy-to-reach portions. Presentation matters almost as much as taste.

Interactive elements: Make it a group experience. Everyone can assemble their own tacos, build mini sandwiches or scoop gelato/ice cream inspired by the film LL

Popcorn, upgraded

Simple ways to turn movie night’s favorite snack into something memorable

HOW TO

pPopcorn may be the most iconic movie-night food of all, but it doesn’t have to stop at butter and salt. With a few thoughtful additions, a simple bowl can become something far more memorable. Todd Ernst, owner of The Spice & Tea Exchange of Hilton Head, encourages home cooks to think in flavor profiles rather than individual toppings. Sweet, salty, cheesy or bold. “Simply pop it and top it,” he says, noting that popcorn is an ideal blank canvas that adapts easily to whatever mood the movie sets. The foundation matters. Whether air-popped or made on the stovetop, popcorn benefits from a light toss in a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil so seasonings cling evenly. From there, the options are wide open. Savory fans might lean into classic popcorn seasoning, black truffle sea salt or even pizza seasoning, proof that popcorn welcomes big, playful flavors. For those craving something sweet, salted caramel sugar strikes the right balance of crunch and indulgence, while cheesy blends deliver instant comfort and nostalgia.

For a more adventurous bite, spicy options like Sriracha sea salt or chili-infused sugar add heat and depth, especially fun for latenight movies or thrillers. One of the easiest ways to elevate movie night is to make popcorn interactive. Set out a few seasonings, sweet toppings or melted chocolate, and let everyone build their own bowl. As Ernst puts it, “The possibilities are endless,” and that creativity is what turns movie night into an experience.

Pairings worth popping

Classic and salty: Traditional popcorn seasoning, sea salt or black truffle sea salt

Cheesy comfort: Cheddar-style seasoning or a light dusting of Parmesan

Sweet and crunchy: Salted caramel sugar, cinnamon sugar or cocoa blends

Spicy and bold: Sriracha sea salt, chili blends or smoked paprika

Savory twist: Pizza seasoning, herb blends or garlic and herbs

Sweet heat: Melted chocolate finished with chili or spiced sugar

THE SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE

Black Truffle Garlic Popcorn

Earthy black truffle and savory garlic elevate freshly popped popcorn into an unexpectedly elegant snack in this simple recipe from The Spice & Tea Exchange. Finished with olive oil or butter, it’s an easy, indulgent upgrade that delivers big flavor for movie night.

INGREDIENTS

5-6 cups freshly popped popcorn

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, or melted unsalted butter

1 1/2 teaspoons black truffle garlic seasoning

DIRECTIONS[1] In a mixing bowl, toss popcorn with olive oil or melted butter. [2] Add seasoning in large pinches, tossing in between each addition to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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Subscribe today to our weekly newsletter all about food in the Lowcountry. From top dining picks to wine selections, local recipes to chef profiles, the dish serves you tasty intel on gastronomic goings-on.

eats

Popcorn takes the lead

HOW AMERICA’S FAVORITE MOVIE SNACK BECAME A STAR IN THE KITCHEN

SECRET INGREDIENT

pPopcorn’s connection to film runs deeper than concession stands and movie nights. Long before it became a theater staple, popcorn was one of America’s oldest snack foods, enjoyed by Indigenous peoples thousands of years ago. By the late 1800s popcorn machines were popping up at fairs and street corners, filling the air with an irresistible aroma. When movie theaters struggled during the Great Depression, popcorn became their unlikely lifeline. Inexpensive, portable and profitable, it helped keep cinemas open. From that point on, popcorn and film were inseparable, linked by sound, scent and shared experience.

Today, popcorn is being rediscovered in kitchens for many of the same reasons it succeeded on screen. It’s affordable, versatile and remarkably adaptable. A single kernel can be light and crisp, toasty and nutty, or deeply aromatic, depending on how it’s prepared. Chefs are embracing popcorn not just for nostalgia, but for its ability to add texture and subtle flavor without overwhelming a dish. Like a good supporting actor, it enhances the scene without stealing it.

What surprises many home cooks is how easily popcorn moves beyond the bowl. Freshly popped kernels can be crushed into a crunchy coating for fish, chicken or vegetables, offering a lighter alternative to breadcrumbs. Steeped in warm cream or milk, popcorn gently infuses sauces, soups and even mashed potatoes with toastedcorn flavor. Tossed with olive oil, herbs and cheese, it becomes a savory garnish for pasta or roasted vegetables. On the sweet side, popcorn adds contrast to chocolate, caramel, cookies and cakes, balancing richness with crunch.

Popcorn also thrives in hybrid roles, bridging sweet and savory in playful, modern ways. Think kernels finished with chili oil and citrus zest, folded into brittle or lightly seasoned and scattered over ice cream or custards. Even finely ground popcorn can be mixed into spice blends or used to thicken sauces, adding body without heaviness.

In a film-inspired issue, popcorn feels especially fitting. It reminds us that atmosphere matters as much as flavor. Familiar, comforting and quietly adaptable, popcorn proves that an ingredient doesn’t need to be flashy to be memorable. Sometimes the best moments come from what’s been there all along, simply waiting for a new role.

Try it at home

Infused liquids: Steep popped kernels in cream, milk or broth for soups, sauces or ice cream bases. Powdered popcorn: Grind dried popcorn into a fine crumb for coating fish, chicken or vegetables. Popcorn butter: Blend popcorn with melted butter to create a savory base for sauces or compound butters.

Garnish with a twist: Lightly crushed popcorn adds crunch to risotto, roasted vegetables or pasta. Flavor extracts: Toast or caramelize popcorn, then infuse into syrups or oils for desserts, cocktails or glazes. LL

BAKE BETTER. LOVE EVERY PIECE.

This February, find all the tools you need for inspired baking at Le Cookery—featuring beloved brands like Emile Henry, Mason Cash, Nordic Ware and USA Pan.

A sea of celebration

THE HILTON HEAD ISLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL OFFERS A WEEK OF FLAVOR, CULTURE AND CONNECTION

STORY BY MICHAELA SATTERFIELD ROBERTS

tThe 19th annual Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is one of the few food festivals at which food adds the flavor, but something else is what really matters. Giving back to the Lowcountry by promoting both sustainability and charity is the heart of the event, which runs from Feb. 23 to March 1. Event director Kelly Smith says she expects a turnout of around 10,000 people if previous festivals are any indication. A wide range of activities fill the week-long event calendar, from wildlife experiences to intimate dinners and tastings. A mix of local, regional and even national chefs will host classes and offer demonstrations throughout the week. Smith says much of the festival is family friendly – a rarity at most food and drink festivals.

Rise & Grind.

Lowcountry legacy

To promote sustainability of Hilton Head and its waterways, festivalgoers have the opportunity to dive beneath the flavors on the surface into the landscapes where ingredients are sourced. For example, an all-in-one tour on the event schedule allows visitors to run the gamut of nature excursions in the Lowcountry. Setting out from Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, the tour will take guests on a journey that includes crabbing, shrimping, fishing and oystering.

“A lot of times you have to pick and choose — do I want to go fishing, do I want to go do one thing over another — and so we decided to create a tour where you actually get to do all of those things,” Smith says.

In the festival’s talent lineup is National Geographic Explorer Barton Seaver, a nine-time published cookbook author from Maine. Smith says Seaver’s emphasis on ocean conservation made him a natural choice to teach a master class at the event, adding that everyone who attends his class will receive a copy of his latest book, The Blue Food Cookbook.

“He knows so much — not just about how to cook — but how these creatures live in the water: how they grow and when is the best time to actually catch them,” Smith says.

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks president Andrew Carmines, with whom Smith worked to organize the event, is a local sustainability advocate whose aspirations align closely with Seaver’s. Smith says Carmines is passionate about protecting Hilton Head Island to preserve its environment for the future. Igniting this passion in others is one purpose of the festival.

Barton Seaver’s Bluefish Flambé

To whet appetites before the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, chef and seafood expert Barton Seaver shared this bluefish flambé from his new cookbook, The Blue Food Cookbook. Guests attending Seaver’s master class from 1-2 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Omni will receive a copy of the book. Tickets are $124.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/4 pounds bluefish fillets, preferably from larger fish with fillets 3/4 inch thick or more, skin on

Salt

Freshly cracked black pepper

5 tablespoons butter

Zest and juice of 1 lemon (2 to 3 tablespoons juice)

2 tablespoons chopped soft herbs, such as parsley, chives, cilantro or fennel fronds 1/4 cup Pernod or Herbsaint

DIRECTIONS [1] Season the fish with salt and let it rest for 15 minutes. Coat the flesh side generously with black pepper, gently pressing it into the surface. [2] Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. It may seem like a lot, but it becomes the base of the sauce. When the butter is foaming and just beginning to brown, place the fish skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the skin is crisp and the fish begins to color. [3] Flip the fish and cook until just done, about 2 to 3 minutes more. Add the lemon zest. Turn off the heat, and carefully add the Pernod or Herbsaint. [4] Return the pan to the heat, and carefully ignite the liquor by tilting the pan away from you toward a gas flame, or using a long match. Once the flames subside, add the lemon juice and herbs. Swirl the pan to combine.

CHEF TIPS

Bluefish comes in a wide range of sizes, from small “snapper” blues to very large fish. Fillet thickness can vary significantly, so adjust cooking times as needed.

Bluefish has a thick bloodline, the dark strip of tissue just beneath the skin. While some cooks enjoy its rich flavor, others find it strong. If desired, remove it after cooking by peeling back the skin and gently scraping the dark tissue away with a knife. It will flake right off.

Be mindful of the flambé. It’s dramatic and delicious, but it is still an open flame. Stay focused and keep your eyebrows.

Seafood for a cause

Perhaps an even bigger purpose for hosting the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is to raise money for worthy causes. Since the festival is hosted by the David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation, an organization created on behalf of Andrew Carmines’ late brother, charity gets the main spotlight at the event.

Every purchase made at the festival, from event tickets to cocktails to T-shirts, goes to local organizations. Smith says a wide range of organizations benefit, such as the Volunteers in Medicine Clinic and The Children’s Center.

“For as much money as we raise, we give it all away,” Smith says.

MORE THAN SEAFOOD

The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival brings people together each February to celebrate local seafood while raising funds for area nonprofits that support education, conservation, health care and cultural preservation across the Lowcountry.

Festival happenings

As if the opportunity to make a difference while experiencing Lowcountry fun at the same time weren't enough, the seafood festival boasts an impressive roster of chefs and events.

Chef Marcus Samuelsson of the Food Network will offer his expertise in the form of a master class as well as a demonstration. He brings a remarkable resume to the table, which includes starring on the shows Chopped, Top Chef, and Iron Chef. Samuelsson’s portfolio of multiple restaurants encompasses New York City spots such as Hav & Mar, Red Rooster Harlem and Metropolis.

Making its debut this year, an event called Uncommon Cuts will expose attendees to some of the rarest meats and seafoods in the world at Chez Georges Bistro and Bar. At the helm of this occasion will be chefs David Carrier and Robert Owens, in addition to restaurant owner George Casalicchio.

Smith says one of the festival’s crown events is the Pig Pickin’ and Oyster Roast, which features a spread of everything from whole hog barbecue to local shrimp. The feast is set to the tune of live music by Bottles & Cans.

Many other dinners, tastings, outdoor activities and afterparties comprise the rest of the calendar.

“It is a true celebration of all things culinary — all things Lowcountry wildlife,” Smith says, “but also I really hope they know that this is more than just coming out and having a good time. This is about raising money for all the incredible charities here in the Lowcountry.”

SMOKE, SHUCK AND SAVOR For many locals, the Pig Pickin’ and Oyster Roast is the festival’s most anticipated event, and this year’s edition promises to deliver. From 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 27 at the Coastal Discovery Museum, top chefs and pit masters will dish out an unforgettable spread of whole hog barbecue, roasted oysters, local shrimp, whole chickens, chopped BBQ and the classic Southern sides people dream about all year long. Tickets are $140.

Rooted in flavor

Food Network star Kardea Brown celebrates 30 years of the Gullah Celebration with a master class and festival appearance

SEA ISLANDS STAR Kardea Brown is a chef and caterer best known as the host of Food Network’s Delicious Miss Brown. Since its 2019 debut, the show has reached millions of viewers. Brown is also the author of two cookbooks, the owner of a restaurant at Charleston International Airport and the creator of a frozen food line. She is coming to Hilton Head Island this month as part of the Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration and the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival.

Celebrity chef Kardea Brown is coming to Hilton Head Island this February for a pair of appearances that celebrate the food, stories and traditions of the Sea Islands. Brown will be part of both the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival and the Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration, which commemorates its 30th anniversary with events throughout February.

A Food Network favorite, New York Times bestselling author and Daytime Emmy Award winner, Brown is known for sharing the rich culinary heritage of the Gullah-Geechee culture through recipes rooted in family, memory and place. Her visit offers locals and visitors a rare chance to experience that perspective up close.

An intimate master class at the Omni

Brown’s first appearance is a Master Class with Kardea Brown from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Feb. 27 at the Omni. Tickets are $120. Designed as a one-night-only experience, the class invites guests to slow down and gather close as Brown leads a live cooking demonstration featuring one of her signature recipes from The Way Home: A Celebration of Sea Islands Food and Family. Along the way, she shares the techniques, ingredients and personal stories that shape her approach to Sea Islands cuisine. Each guest will receive a signed copy of the book, making the hour feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation around a shared table. With limited seating, the experience is intentionally warm, personal and immersive.

Experience the Gullah-Geechee Village

Brown also will make a special appearance during the Saturday Seafood Festival as part of a new Gullah-Geechee Village Experience created in honor of the Gullah Celebration’s milestone anniversary. Festival goers can explore full-scale replicas of a schoolhouse, church and shrimp boat, browse Gullah artisans and retailers and watch live demonstrations on a dedicated stage. Brown will be joined by fellow celebrity chef B.J. Dennis, with both chefs bringing heritage foodways to life through cooking demonstrations and storytelling that connect past and present. Tickets to the Saturday festival are $20.

2026 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

To purchase tickets, visit HiltonHeadSeafoodFestival.com

Lowcountry Experiences on the Water: Feb. 23-27, three tours daily; Departing from Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

Daufuskie Island History Experience: Feb. 23-28, various times; Daufuskie Island

Seafood Festival Try Archery: Feb. 23, 4-6 p.m.; Rowing and Sailing Center

Carmines Family Climb with Seafood Fest: Feb. 24, 4-6 p.m.; Island Rec Center

Family Fishing Night: Feb. 25, 4-6 p.m.; Hilton Head Island Rowing and Sailing Center

Secrets of the Craft with Brewer John Rybicki: Feb. 25, 4-5:30 p.m.; Lincoln & South Brewing Co.

Asado By the Sea: Feb. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; The Beach House

Launch & Lunch:

Feb. 26, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Rowing and Sailing Center

Zero Forks Given:

Feb. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront

Pig Pickin’ & Oyster Roast:

Feb. 27, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Coastal Discovery Museum

Catch & Taste Pass:

Feb. 28, 1-5 p.m.; Coastal Discovery Museum

Saturday Seafood Festival:

Feb. 28, 1-5 p.m.; Coastal Discovery Museum

Saturday Tasting Tent:

Feb. 28, 1-5 p.m.; Throughout Saturday Seafood Festival

After Party:

Feb. 28, 4 p.m.; Lincoln & South Brewing Co.

Kegs + Eggs: March 1, 10 a.m.-noon; Lincoln & South Brewing Co.

This isn’t just a meal. It’s a story passed down by hand, by heart, and by heritage. This February, step into a world where food becomes memory, and every dish tells a deeper truth. The Taste of 300 Years. The Celebration of 30. Savor the legacy.

step into a world where food

FEBRUARY 1 - 28, 2026 GULLAHCELEBRATION.ORG

Baltimore-style crab cakes

BE CAREFUL TO WHOM YOU SERVE THESE HOMEMADE BEAUTIES. THEY MAY JUST FALL IN LOVE

Choose

your crab

tSTORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY

ALEA WILKINS

Treat someone special (or yourself) to homemade crab cakes that are luxurious, flaky and fried to golden perfection. Lori Goodridge-Cribb may be a full-time resident of the Lowcountry, but she swears by this recipe that follows the Baltimore tradition. Forget mix-ins like celery or hot sauce — these delicacies are for the crab meat purists. A dash of Old Bay kicks the northeast flavors up a notch, and when served piping hot with a creamy dill sauce, each forkful makes the perfect pair.

For the best flavor, Lori buys her crab meat from Benny Hudson Seafood Market, the island’s longtime go-to for fresh seafood. Jumbo lump adds an indulgent touch for special occasions, while backfin is a smart, everyday option that delivers great flavor without the splurge.

ALL ABOUT THE CRAB

Baltimore-style crab cakes shine when the crab takes center stage. Fried to golden perfection and paired with a bright dill sauce, this from-scratch classic lets the seafood do all the talking.

Watch & learn

Watch Lori prepare this dish “From Scratch” on LOCAL Life’s YouTube Channel @LocalLifeSC

Baltimore-style crab cakes

INGREDIENTS (crab cakes)

20 saltine crackers

1 pound jumbo lump crab meat

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 large egg, beaten

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Fresh ground black pepper

Olive oil and butter for frying

DIRECTIONS[1] Break up crackers into pieces slightly larger than breadcrumbs in a bowl. Pour crab meat on top, but don’t mix.

[2] In a separate bowl, stir together mayonnaise, egg, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay and black pepper. Pour mixture on top of crab, and gently fold together. This will preserve the lumps of crab meat and keep them from toughening up. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. [3] Once chilled, scoop out palm-sized portions of the mixture, and gently form into half-inch patties.

[4] In a cast iron skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat until bubbling. Add patties one at a time, and cook until golden, about three minutes on each side. Set on a paper towel to soak up any excess oil before serving.

INGREDIENTS (dipping sauce)

1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt & pepper to taste

1 teaspoon lemon zest (enhances flavor!)

DIRECTIONS[1] In a small bowl combine the yogurt, dill, lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. [2] Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. [3] Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir once more before serving alongside the warm crab cakes.

HANDLE WITH CARE When it’s time to flip, the right utensils and a steady hand make all the difference. Wait until the edges are golden and the pan releases easily, then turn with confidence.

RESTAURANT

news&notes

Openings, updates and buzz shaping the Lowcountry dining scene

BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Flavor in full swing

February brings a steady hum to the Lowcountry dining scene, where winter menus shine, creativity takes center stage, and chefs lean into bold, inventive ideas. From trend-forward dishes to community-driven happenings and notable updates, this month’s restaurant news highlights how local kitchens continue to evolve and surprise. Whether you’re chasing something new or rediscovering familiar favorites, February is serving up plenty of reasons to pull up a chair and dig in.

NOW OPEN

Seaside Sourdough

NEW RIVERSIDE, BLUFFTON

Seaside Sourdough is now baking slow and local in Bluffton, where the coast meets the crust. This home-based micro bakery offers handcrafted artisan sourdough loaves, rotating seasonal and specialty flavors, and weekly sweet treats, all made in small batches with care. With weekly pick-ups and limited quantities, Seaside Sourdough brings fresh, thoughtfully made bread to the community, inviting locals to savor simple comforts and support a growing Bluffton-based bakehouse.

Sweetgrass Pantry & Provisions

WEST STREET, BEAUFORT

Sweetgrass Pantry & Provisions has officially opened in the heart of downtown Beaufort, bringing a thoughtfully curated neighborhood market to 208A West Street. Formerly Bottles Off Bay, the refreshed space now offers a carefully selected mix of groceries, unique craft beer and wine, small-batch baked goods and everyday provisions designed for easy, elevated shopping. While the full bakery build-out is underway, guests can still enjoy freshly baked treats alongside the shop’s well-chosen beverage selection. With its welcoming feel and focus on quality, Sweetgrass Pantry & Provisions is a new go-to for locals and visitors alike.

Salty Dog Target Road

TARGET ROAD, HILTON HEAD

Salty Dog Café has officially expanded with a new Target Road location, opening at 6 Target Road in the former home of Captain Woody’s. The new space brings even more to love, now housing Jackie’s Ice Cream Parlor and Jake’s Pizza at Salty Dog Target Road. Guests can cool off with Jackie’s homemade ice cream and milkshakes or grab a slice of Jake’s hand-tossed pizza, all under the familiar Salty Dog banner. With classic favorites and fresh additions in a lively new setting, the Target Road location offers another fun, family-friendly spot to eat, treat and gather on Hilton Head Island without having to drive all the way into Sea Pines.

Hotdog Empori-yum BLUFFTON FOOD CART

Now rolling through the Lowcountry, Hotdog Emporiyum is a new mobile food cart bringing classic comfort food with big personality to Bluffton and Hardeeville. The menu is all about hot dogs done right, from an authentic Chicago dog to chili dogs, slaw dogs and New York-style dirty water dogs, plus the option to build your own creation just the way you like it. Chips, cookies, bottled water and canned sodas round out the lineup, making it an easy, nostalgic stop for a quick bite. Currently seeking pop-up and set-up locations around the area, Hotdog Emporiyum is ready to serve wherever hungry locals gather.

Okinawa Sushi BLUFFTON FOOD TRUCK

Okinawa Sushi has officially hit the Bluffton streets with its new food truck, serving made-to-order sushi with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From classic and tempura rolls to house specials and appetizers like shrimp tempura and kani salad, the mobile kitchen brings sushi straight to the community. With its family-run focus and approachable menu, this new food truck is a welcome addition to the Lowcountry’s growing mobile dining scene.

COMING SOON

Moppy’s BBQ FOOD TRUCK & POP-UPS

Moppy’s BBQ is firing up a bold new barbecue concept, coming soon from the creators of Slap!Truck. Rooted in traditional barbecue and shaped by global influence, Moppy’s takes a small-batch, intentional approach to smoke: low and slow, and only when it makes sense. Operating as a limited pop-up and preorder-only food truck with no set schedule, the concept leans into quality over quantity and creativity over convention. Menu details and pop-up announcements will be shared exclusively through @MoppysBBQ, where fans can follow along for smoke signals and the first chance to experience this elevated take on barbecue on wheels. chance to experience this elevated take on barbecue on wheels.

Brown Dog Deli BUCKWALTER, BLUFFTON

Bluffton is getting a new spot for creative, crave-worthy sandwiches as Brown Dog Deli prepares to open this spring behind the Zips Car Wash on Buckwalter Parkway. The popular Charleston favorite is known for inventive sandwiches, wraps and salads served in a relaxed, artsy setting, with hearty flavors and most options priced under $15. Fans of fresh, approachable deli fare can look forward to a playful, welcoming new addition to the Lowcountry dining scene.

Blackstone’s Café Bakery DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT

A beloved local favorite is getting ready to expand as the owners of Blackstone’s Café announce plans to open a new bakery in downtown Beaufort. The forthcoming Blackstone’s Café Bakery aims to bring back the feel of a true neighborhood bakery, offering freshly baked breads, bagels, cinnamon rolls and a wide range of classic baked goods. While the team is currently searching for the perfect downtown location, the vision is clear: a welcoming space rooted in tradition, craftsmanship and the simple joy of freshfrom-the-oven baking. More details will be shared as plans continue to rise.

NEWS & NOTES

Dinner at Sea Sea’s Honey Hole

Beloved for its surprise lunchtime pop-ups, Sea Sea’s Honey Hole in Port Royal is giving locals a new reason to stop by in the evenings. The bait-and-tackle shop, which has developed a cult following for its occasional lunch items, is expanding into weekday dinners during the slower winter months, serving authentic Cuban plates straight from the shop. Expect rotating nightly mains like ropa vieja, picadillo, vaca frita and fried pork chunks, each paired with classic sides such as white rice, black beans, tostones or sweet plantains, plus savory pastries like ham croquettes and empanadas when available. Dinners will be offered Mondays through Wednesdays in the early evening and served first come, first served. Sea Sea’s Honey Hole continues to represent a casual, soulful extension of the spontaneous, community-driven cooking locals already love.

Side Hustle Brewing Co. wins top honors

Side Hustle Brewing Co. is celebrating a major achievement after being named Overall Champion Stout at the 2025 Stout Bout Showdown in Asheville. The award-winning brew, Loan Wolf, an epic imperial stout clocking in at 17.5% ABV, impressed judges with its deep, dark character and decadent notes of toasted coconut and salted caramel. The win highlights Side Hustle’s dedication to bold, inventive beers and cements its reputation as a standout in the Lowcountry craft brewing scene.

Black Marlin plans waterfront bar makeover

The Black Marlin Bayside Grill on Hilton Head Island is set to undergo a nautical-inspired update, replacing its charming octagonal patio bar with a new rectangular structure designed to resemble a classic fishing boat. The redesign will add more seating and enhance waterfront views, while architectural details like wood lap siding, an epoxy-coated countertop and timber “outrigger” columns will evoke the look and feel of a traditional vessel. While the restaurant is keeping the exact timeline for the outdoor bar closure under wraps, diners can look forward to a refreshed, immersive waterside experience once the project is complete.

TRY THESE

New. Now. Delicious.

These inventive Lowcountry dishes have a fun connection to TV and film.

STORMY START

Healthy Habit’s grass-fed steak and eggs bowl is a breakfast built for champions, just like Aunt Meg’s iconic dish in Twister Perfectly cooked eggs paired with tender, flavorful steak make winning the day look and taste easy. It’s a hearty, inventive start that’s ready to power you through whatever comes your way.

DATE NIGHT DELIGHT

Celeste Coastal Cuisine’s Vegetarian Spinach Ravioli brings a little cinematic romance to the plate, reminiscent of Bella Swan’s mushroom ravioli moment in Twilight: New Moon. Tender spinach-filled ravioli is topped with creamy butternut squash sauce, crisp red beet chips and a sprinkle of Manchego cheese.

Quick Quick

MAKE LAMB

Nectar Old Town Bluffton’s Lamb & Shakshuka brings playful, family-style confidence to brunch, reminiscent of Aunt Voula’s classic line in My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Spiced lamb loin meets vibrant parsley chimichurri and a rich West Egg tomato-and-pepper sauce, finished with Split Creek Farm goat feta and crisp benne seed crostinis.

Bites Bites

NUGGETS FROM THE LOCAL FOOD & BEVERAGE SCENE

The new Local Pie at Parkside Commons at New Riverside is expected to open by the end of the month; Frosty Frog Café and Café Al Dente are slated to follow in April.

District 10 Coffee HHI, Melrose Oyster House & Beach Club on Daufuskie Island and Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge on Hilton Head Island have permanently closed.

Two Thai Cuisine now offers catering. Kefirs are now available at Revive Kombucha

Pearman, a

What would Margaret

drink?

the

Wine, Interrupted

HOW MERLOT WENT SIDEWAYS IN 2004

In 2004 the release of the film Sideways had an unexpected and profound effect on the California wine industry — specifically on merlot. The movie, which follows two friends on a wine-tasting road trip through California’s Central Coast, not only entertained audiences but also altered the trajectory of merlot sales and the varietal’s reputation among American wine drinkers. Today merlot is experiencing a resurgence, reclaiming its place as a beloved and versatile alternative to cabernet sauvignon.

Sideways is famously remembered for a scene in which the protagonist Miles passionately declares, “If anyone orders merlot, I’m leaving. I am NOT drinking any [expletive] merlot!”

This single line, delivered with comedic fervor, captured his disdain for the grape and, as a result, profoundly influenced consumer perceptions. Almost overnight, merlot seemed to vanish from wine lists and retail shelves. Sales of merlot in the United States declined sharply in the years following the movie’s release. Consumers turned to pinot noir, the grape variety championed by Miles in the film. California producers responded by planting less merlot and more pinot noir.

Despite its temporary fall from grace, merlot has always been a grape of exceptional quality and versatility. Let us not forget that the highly acclaimed Petrus is made almost entirely from the varietal. Traditionally, merlot is known for producing wines that are smooth, approachable and full-bodied, with flavors of ripe plum, cherry and subtle spice. It serves as an excellent alternative to cabernet sauvignon, offering a softer tannic structure and a rounder mouthfeel while still delivering depth and complexity. For many wine lovers its easydrinking style and food-friendly character have always made it a staple at the table. Merlot may have gone sideways, but it never went away, and the comeback is tasting better than ever.

Lights, camera, cocktails

ICONIC MOVIE DRINKS REIMAGINED WITH LOCAL SPIRITS

Some cocktails are more than something you sip. They’re scene stealers, forever linked to the movies that made them famous. These three cinematic classics are easy to make at home and even better when mixed with spirits made close to home.

The French 75

The elegant French 75 feels tailor-made for the smoky romance of Casablanca, a drink that practically orders itself while someone murmurs, “Here’s looking at you, kid.” Using Bulrush Gin from Hilton Head Island brightens the cocktail with crisp botanicals that lift the citrus and bubbles, giving it a little sparkle without stealing the scene.

HERE’S LOOKING AT YOU, COCKTAIL Shake 1 ounce gin, 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice and 1/2 ounce simple syrup with ice, briskly but with restraint. You’re aiming for charming, not chaotic. Strain into a champagne flute, top with Champagne, and admire the bubbles doing all the heavy lifting. Finish with a lemon twist. Take a sip, cue the piano, and let “As Time Goes By” do the rest.

The Dude’s White Russian

Few drinks are as inseparable from a character as the white Russian is from The Dude in The Big Lebowski. Easygoing and indulgent, it’s a cocktail that doesn’t try too hard. Burnt Church Distillery’s Bourbon Cream from Bluffton deepens the drink with warm notes of vanilla and caramel, adding Southern richness while keeping its laid-back soul intact.

THE DUDE ABIDES (so take it easy) Fill a rocks glass with ice. Not fancy ice. Just ice. Add 2 ounces vodka and 1 ounce coffee liqueur, and give it a moment to get acquainted. Gently float 1 ounce of bourbon cream over the top like you’ve got nowhere else to be. Stir slowly, or don’t. Either way, take a sip, relax your shoulders, and remember: this drink is not here to rush you.

James Bond’s Vodka Martini

James Bond’s famously precise order made the vodka martini a symbol of cool confidence. Swapping in Rotten Little Bastard King Tide Vodka from Beaufort gives the drink extra backbone. At 90 proof, it’s smooth but assertive, sharpening the martini’s clean lines and giving it a little more edge, much like Bond himself.

LICENSED TO CHILL Fill a shaker with ice, then add 2 1/2 ounces vodka and 1/2 ounce dry vermouth. Shake with purpose. This is not the time for hesitation. Strain into a properly chilled martini glass because Bond would absolutely judge a warm one. Garnish with olives, adjust your cufflinks, and serve immediately. Shaken, not overthought.

Inside the ropes

THE DARIUS RUCKER INTERCOLLEGIATE OFFERS A FRONT-ROW SEAT TO THE BEST IN WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

Experience the excitement

For locals the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate offers a rare opportunity to experience elite golf up close on a private course that typically sits behind the gates. Admission is free, with all spectator parking located at Central Church (975 William Hilton Parkway), directly across from the Long Cove entrance. Parking is complimentary, and free shuttles run continuously between the lot and the course. For safety reasons, walking across U.S. 278 is not permitted.

Tentative tee times are 9:20-11:40 a.m. each day but are subject to change. On-course food and drink is available for purchase between the 1st and 10th tee along with a seating area.

Those who cannot attend in person can still follow every key moment. Live national coverage on Golf Channel brings Long Cove’s fairways, greens and finishing holes to viewers across the country.

bBy the time the final groups turn toward the closing stretch at Long Cove Club, the galleries have settled in. Footsteps quiet. Conversations drop to whispers. Every swing matters. Each March, moments like these put Hilton Head Island squarely at the center of the women’s collegiate golf world, and 2026 will be no different.

The Darius Rucker Intercollegiate returns March 2-4, bringing one of the deepest fields in college golf to a course most fans only ever see from a distance. With national television coverage, free admission and a layout that invites spectators to walk alongside the game’s rising stars, it is easy to understand why this tournament has become a favorite for both players and fans.

This is not just another stop on the college golf calendar. Since making its live debut on Golf Channel in 2022, the event has been the only allwomen’s regular-season collegiate golf tournament televised live in the United States. That exposure has raised the stakes, sharpened the competition and helped turn three days at Long Cove into one of the most closely watched collegiate events of the spring.

7 Lavington Road | Long Cove

4 bedrooms . 4 full baths . 2 half baths . 5,010 square feet . $2,995,000

Newly completed in the prestigious, gated community of Long Cove on Hilton Head Island this 4-bedroom plus study luxury residence blends timeless Lowcountry elegance with sophisticated contemporary style. Sun-filled living spaces flow seamlessly to expansive outdoor areas that showcase the home’s serene, private setting. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired kitchen that defines upscale coastal living. Outfitted with state-of-the-art appliances, custom cabinetry, and refined finishes, this kitchen is as functional as it is stunning. Step outside to your own private oasis: a beautifully landscaped backyard featuring a custom pool and spa.

Richard MacDonald (843) 384-8797

richard@rmacdonald.com

Joey Doyle (843) 290-5055

joeydoyle@charteronerealty.com

Sanders MacDonald (843) 816-4800

sanders@charteronerealty.com

Tuesday thru Friday 10 until 5 Saturday 10 until 4

A field built for drama

The 2026 lineup reads like a who’s who of women’s collegiate golf. Seventeen teams are scheduled to compete, including Alabama, Arizona State, Arkansas, Auburn, Arizona, Duke, Florida State, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Ole Miss, Northwestern, Ohio State, South Carolina, Texas, Vanderbilt and Wake Forest.

CHAMPIONSHIP VIEWS Spectators watch the action on the 18th hole during last year’s Darius Rucker Intercollegiate at Long Cove Club. This year’s event (March 2-4) is free to attend, giving golf fans a rare chance to watch the nation’s top collegiate players compete on an iconic course typically reserved for members.

Recent history suggests another wide-open race. In 2025 LSU and South Carolina finished tied atop the leaderboard, with LSU claiming the team title in a tiebreak. Individually, Arkansas’ Kendall Todd and South Carolina’s Louise Rydqvist shared medalist honors at 212, 1 under par. They were the only players in the field to finish the 54hole event in red numbers, a clear reminder of how demanding Long Cove can be.

That kind of parity is what makes following the tournament on the ground so compelling. Momentum can shift quickly, and even late leads feel fragile. Every hole asks a question, and not every answer comes easily.

A course made for spectating

Currently ranked No. 20 in Golfweek’s Top 200 Residential Courses in the United States, Long Cove Club offers a rare chance to walk a nationally acclaimed Pete Dye design typically reserved for members. The course does not overpower players, but it rarely gives anything away. For spectators the routing is friendly, and the sight lines are strong. The drama builds naturally as groups work their way toward the clubhouse. Popular viewing spots include the par 3s at Nos. 2, 8, 13 and 17, where wind and pin placement can quickly flip a leaderboard. The finishing stretch at Nos. 16, 17 and 18 rewards patience and precision and often decides the tournament late in the day.

Green complexes throughout the course provide a close look at the creativity and touch that separate good rounds from great ones. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but the course is walkable, shaded in places and easy to navigate, even if you follow one group before moving on to the next.

A Lowcountry tradition

Founded in 2012, the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate has grown from a respected college tournament into one of the most anticipated events on the women’s collegiate golf calendar. In partnership with South Carolina native and musician Darius Rucker, the tournament blends elite competition with a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the Lowcountry’s appreciation for both hospitality and high-level sport.

More than a decade in, the event continues to deliver close finishes, national attention and a rare level of access for fans. For Hilton Head Island it has become a March tradition that opens the gates, invites the public inside the ropes and offers a clear look at the future of women’s golf.

SETTING THE TONE Kicking off this year’s event will be a private Darius Rucker concert for players, coaches, sponsors and Long Cove Club members.

DEFENDING CHAMPS LSU claimed its second guitar trophy at last year’s Darius Rucker Intercollegiate, edging South Carolina in a tiebreaker. The distinctive guitar has become one of college golf’s most coveted awards.

Golfers to follow

From seasoned All-Americans to rising stars with championship credentials, this year’s field is stacked with players capable of taking control at Long Cove. These five golfers bring proven resumes, steady nerves and games well suited to a course that rewards precision and patience.

Eila Galitsky (South Carolina)

Galitsky has quickly established herself as one of the most reliable players in collegiate golf. An All-American and consistent top finisher for the Gamecocks, she pairs length off the tee with a calm short game that fits Long Cove’s strategic demands.

María José Marín (Arkansas)

Marín arrives with one of the strongest resumes in the field. The 2025 NCAA Individual Champion and SEC Player of the Year, she has consistently proven her ability to separate herself from elite competition. When Marín tees it up, she is always a contender.

Farah O’Keefe (Texas)

O’Keefe brings steadiness and experience to a deep Texas lineup, leaning on smart course management and a mistake-free approach. She keeps steady pressure on the field and often climbs leaderboards quietly, making her a smart player to track over all three days.

Anna Davis (Auburn)

Davis rose to prominence with her 2022 victory at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, becoming the youngest champion in the event’s history. Now at Auburn, she brings big-stage experience and a poised, confident game to the field.

Patience Rhodes (Arizona State)

Rhodes adds international experience and depth to an Arizona State team that is always a contender in elite fields. She has shown a knack for handling pressure and grinding out scores, qualities that often matter most late in this event.

Built to last

In her 19th season at South Carolina, Kalen Anderson reflects on culture, consistency and why the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate feels like home

STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

kKalen Anderson has spent 19 years shaping one of the most consistent programs in women’s collegiate golf, and few events reflect her philosophy better than the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate. For the longtime head coach of the University of South Carolina women’s golf team, the annual stop at Long Cove Club represents far more than another tournament week.

“What excites me most is the Long Cove community,” Anderson says. “The membership support of the tournament creates a truly unique experience for players and coaches.”

That support is felt from the moment teams arrive. Private housing, engaged volunteers, a championship course and thoughtful hospitality make it a highlight on the schedule each year. “From the championship golf course, to the private Darius Rucker concert, to Golf Channel coverage, to the volunteers and spectators and the Long Cove Club food, everything is first class,” she says. “It is rewarding to return to a community that embraces both the talent and personalities of the field.”

A course that rewards discipline

Long Cove Club presents a strategic test that demands patience rather than power. Anderson appreciates how the course challenges players to think carefully and stay committed to their plans. Asked what advice she would give a scratch golfer playing Long Cove for the first time, her answer is concise and revealing: “Play for the centers of the greens."

It is a mindset she reinforces with her own players, particularly under pressure. Conservative targets, emotional control and smart decisions often separate contenders from the rest of the field as the tournament moves toward its closing holes.

Building a culture that lasts

With parity at an all-time high in women’s college golf, Anderson believes sustained success begins with culture. “High-level and consistent recruiting plans, proven player development records and first-class resources are necessities,” she says. “However, I have found most success in creating a positive and consistent program culture.”

At South Carolina that culture is rooted in trust and individuality. “It’s important that we get to know each person as an individual,” Anderson explains. “Her strengths and weaknesses, what motivates her, her learning style and what types of practices best prepare her.”

Recruiting reflects that same philosophy. Anderson pays close attention to how players respond when things go wrong. “I learn more from watching a recruit struggle than when she plays well,” she says. “How does she cope with adversity? How quickly does she bounce back?” Mental fortitude, discipline and self-awareness, she adds, are often what separate high-potential players from those who become First Team AllAmericans.

Island traditions

Away from competition, the team embraces the Lowcountry setting. Beach time after rounds offers a chance to relax, and Java Burrito has become a familiar stop during tournament week. One tradition stands out above the rest.

“Every year we host a team cookout at our rental house for key members of the tournament committee and some of our South Carolina support staff,” Anderson says. “It’s always a memorable night celebrating all the people who make this incredible event possible.” LL

Join us in March for our Pine Cone tournament, a friendly ACBL sanctioned tournament for players with less than 500 points.

On Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 we will have pair games at 9:30am and 2:00pm.

On Sunday, March 8 there will be a two session Swiss Team event that begins at 9:30am and includes lunch.

Stratification for each game will be 500/200/50 points. If you are new to the game of Bridge, this is a great introduction to tournament play.

FEBRUARY

Arts & Culture

The 30th annual Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

From Feb. 1-28, Hilton Head Island hosts the 30th annual Gullah Celebration, honoring the culture, history and artistry of the Gullah Geechee people. With the theme “30 Years Bold. 30 Years Beautiful,” the festival marks three decades of preserving a rich Lowcountry heritage. Recognized as one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society, the celebration offers an immersive experience for locals and visitors.

f happenings

The month begins with “Arts Ob We People: A Gullah Geechee Art Exhibition,” featuring painting, sculpture, fiber arts, sweetgrass weaving and more. This year’s 30th anniversary artist, Amiri Geuka Farris, leads the exhibition with multilayered works highlighting Gullah heritage. Running alongside is “30 Years Framed: Posters of Our Past,” a retrospective showcasing three decades of festival posters that celebrate the event’s history and artistry.

Throughout February, attendees can enjoy a diverse lineup of events, including We Still Rise: Ol’ Fashioned Gullah Breakfast; Mitchelville & The Gullah Museum: Foundations of Freedom and Memory; and Gullah Twilight Music with Deas-Guyz. Storytelling, music and performances such as Voices of Gullah and Bridges Between Generations with Emory Campbell & Tom Barnwell, Jr. connect past and present, while culinary traditions from chefs Kardea Brown, Wendell Osborne and Sallie Ann Robinson showcase the flavors of Gullah culture. For tickets and event details, visit gullahcelebration.org

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Arts Ob We People: A Gullah Geechee Art Exhibition: Times vary, now-Feb. 28, J Costello Gallery

30 Years Framed: Posters of Our Past: Times vary, now-Feb. 28, Coastal Discovery Museum

Cultural Stewardship: Djuanna Brockington & The Gullah Geechee Corridor: 5-6:30 p.m., Feb. 3, Coastal Discovery Museum

Friends & Family at The First African Baptist Church: 7-8 p.m., Feb. 6, The First African Baptist Church

We Still Rise: Ol’ Fashioned Gullah Breakfast: 9-11 a.m., Feb. 7, Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Mitchelville & The Gullah Museum: Foundation of Freedom and Memory:

5-6:30 p.m., Feb. 10, Coastal Discovery Museum

Gullah Twilight Music with Deas-Guyz: 5-8 p.m., Feb. 13, Shelter Cove Community Park

Voices of Gullah: noon-3 p.m., Feb. 14, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Emory Campbell & Tom Barnwell Jr.: Bridges Between Generations: 5-6:30 p.m., Feb. 17, Coastal Discovery Museum

Gospel Series: Gospel Concert Featuring Voices of El Shaddai: 7-8 p.m., Feb. 20, Central Oak Grove Baptist Church

Native Island Golf Classic: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Feb. 21, Port Royal Golf Club

Sea, Soul & Sunshine Brunch: 11 a.m.,-1 p.m., Feb. 21, Tiki Hut

Roots & Recipes Reunion: A Gullah Cook-Off Celebration: 2-5 p.m., Feb. 21, Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Celebrity Chef Master Class with Kardea Brown: 2:30-3:30 p.m., Feb. 27, Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

Gospel Series: Featuring Divine Favor: 7-8 p.m., Feb. 27, Central Oak Grove Church

30th Anniversary Gullah Celebration Village: 1-5 p.m., Feb. 28, Coastal Discovery Museum

Arts & Culture Charity & Community

From Their Spirit, by Their Hands

When: Times vary, Feb. 4-27

Where: Art League of Hilton Head Gallery

Details: Don’t miss the annual Gullah Geechee Traditions in Art show. Attend the reception from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 4. artleaguehhi.org

February Palmetto Bluff Artist in Residence

When: Times vary, Feb. 19-21

Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop

Details: Mary Benson is this month’s featured artist. Purchase her work or attend a workshop. palmettobluff.com

La Cage aux Folles

When: Times vary, Feb. 20-March 8

Where: May River Theatre

Details: Don’t miss the classic French farce centered on the confusion that ensues when the son of a nightclub owner and his male lover invite his fiancée’s ultraconservative parents to dinner. mayrivertheatre.com

The Play That Goes Wrong

When: Times vary, now-Feb. 22 Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Details: This comedy throws you into the disastrous opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor, where quite literally everything goes wrong. artshhi.com

OTHER ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS

Now-Feb. 8: Peter & Wendy at Hilton Head Island High School Theatre

Now-Feb. 28: All Members Show at the Beaufort Art Association Gallery

Now-March 23: It’s Thursday! Artists of the Round Table at Coastal Discovery Center

Now-June 20: The History and Archaeology of Fort Motte at the Morris Heritage Center

Now-April 30: Beyond the See at the Sea Pines Community Center

Creekside Canines Adoption Event

When: noon-2 p.m., Feb. 21 Where: Skull Creek Boathouse

Details: Support Hilton Head Humane and help some furry friends find their forever homes at Skull Creek Boathouse. skullcreekboathouse.com

May River Montessori Open House

When: 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Feb. 7 Where: May River Montessori

Details: Learn about the place where learning happens through hands-on exploration, extended outdoor play, meaningful work and real human connection. mayrivermontessori.com

2026 Page Island Benefit

When: noon-5 p.m., Feb. 22

Where: Page Island

Details: Don’t miss this Lowcountry experience focused on getting kids outside and protecting our environment. Support the Outside Foundation while enjoying live music, a silent auction, an oyster roast and more on this private island. outsidefoundation.org/benefit

OTHER CHARITY & COMMUNITY EVENTS

Feb. 6: Cocktails & Camellias: A Celebration in Bloom at the Coastal Discovery Museum

Feb. 6: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Oyster Roast at Live Oaks Park

Feb. 7: Hilton Head Humane Valentine’s Event at Shelter Cove Community Park

Feb. 7: Fur-Ever Valentine Fundraiser at Palmetto Animal League

Feb. 7: Mardi Gras in Port Royal on Paris Avenue

Feb. 7: The ABLE Foundation of Beaufort County Oyster Roast at Live Oaks Park

Feb. 7: Daddy Daughter Dance at Poseidon Rooftop Bar

Feb. 7: Mother Son Game Night at Local Legend Brewery

Feb. 7: Chamber Ball 2026 at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Feb. 7: Souperbowl of Caring at Coligny Plaza

Feb. 8: Salsa in the Park at Naval Heritage Park

Feb. 10: Masquerade Valentine Dance Party at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio

Feb. 12: Valentine’s Dance Party to Benefit Junior Jazz at Hilton Head Island Beach & Tennis Resort

Feb. 13: Bands, Brews and BBQ at Live Oaks Park

Feb. 15: The YMCA Boots & Bling Fundraiser at Shellring Ale Works

Feb. 20-21: Jerseys & Dresses Tailgate Fundraiser at Vehicle Vault

Feb. 18-21: Winter Spectacular Production at Hilton Head Preparatory School Main Street Theatre

Feb. 20-March 8: I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change at Coligny Theatre

Feb. 28: 5th Annual Bluffton History Shindig at Bluffton Oyster Factory Park

HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JOHN MORRIS RUSSELL, MUSIC DIRECTOR

44TH SEASON

Orchestra Series

ELLIS ISLAND: THE DREAM OF AMERICA AN EVENING AT HOGWA RTS— THE MUSIC OF HARRY POTTER

Special Events

Tickets are available now. Visit hhso.org or call (843) 842-2055.

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Treat yourself (or someone special) to the intriguing people and places, food and fashion, culture and creativity of LOCAL Life Magazine.

Lectures & Classes happenings

Art League Hilton Head classes

Learn a new skill and unleash your creativity with one of these workshops at the Art League Academy on Cordillo Parkway. For a complete list of classes, visit artleaguehhi.org.

OVER $125 value for just $25.

UPCOMING CLASSES

Wine Down Wednesday: Mixed Media heART Works: 5-7 p.m., Feb. 18

All About Art & Where to Start: 9 a.m.-noon, Feb. 24

Resin Casting: Jewelry, Dog Tags, Keychains & More: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Feb. 28

• Annual subscription to LOCAL Life ($20 value)

• Complimentary tray of signature pretzel bites with beer cheese at Lincoln & South

• Hilton Head Symphony offer

• A free appetizer at The Sandbar.

• $50 gift certificate at Moor Spa

• $20 gift certificate at Black Marlin

• Hilton Head Soap Co. offer

• Exclusive local guides

• Exclusive online content

And every Insider gets a birthday treat from Carolina Coffee and Crumbs.

Scan to join or fill out and send the card with your payment near the front of this magazine.

Restorative Medicine Seminar

When: noon-1 p.m., Tuesdays

Where: Fraum Center for Restorative Health

Details: Attend a free educational event on the latest advancements in restorative medicine with a complimentary lunch. Learn how you can help your body heal itself with highly effective, non-invasive solutions to chronic pain. fraum.com

OTHER LECTURES & CLASSES

MEMORY MATTERS EVENTS:

Feb. 27: Memories Do Matter 2026 Speaker Series

LIBRARIES FOR KIDS INTERNATIONAL EVENTS:

Feb. 16: Author Series: Laura Elizabeth

HILTON HEAD AUDUBON EVENTS:

Feb. 12: MOTUS Wildlife Tracking System in SC at the Hilton Head Library

Feb. 17: Introduction to Merlin Bird ID App at the Coastal Discovery Museum

Feb. 19: Introduction to the eBird Mobile App at the Coastal Discovery Museum

Feb. 21: The Magic of Molt at the Coastal Discovery Museum

BEAUFORT COUNTY LIBRARY EVENTS:

Feb. 7: Gardening in the Lowcountry at the Bluffton Branch

Feb. 10: Library Plant Swap at the Hilton Head Branch

Feb. 11: Valentine’s Day Card Making with Stamps at the Port Royal Branch

Feb. 20: Local History — A Party Divided at the Beaufort Branch

Feb. 26: Birding Hotspots of the Lowcountry at the Hilton Head Branch

WACHH EVENTS:

Feb. 6: Barbara Slavin: Risks and Opportunities in Iran-U.S. Relations

Feb. 20: Feisal al-Istrabadi: Iraq — Two Decades After the War

PAT CONROY LITERARY CENTER EVENTS:

Feb. 5-6: An Evening with Award-Winning Journalist Steve Oney

Feb. 19: An Evening with South Carolina Novelists Dorothy McFalls and Linda Lovely