Bluffton breeze december 2014

The Bluffton Breeze December 2014 1

D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

www.blufftonbreeze.com2

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The magazine of Bluffton

Bluffton BreezeThe

The Bluffton Breeze Magazine is published by The Bluffton Breeze LLC. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be re-produced or stored for retrieval by any means without permission from the Publisher. The Bluffton Breeze Magazine is not responsi-ble for unsolicited materials and the publisher accepts no respon-sibility for the contents or accuracy of claims in any advertisement in any issue. The Bluffton Breeze Magazine is not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in information. The opinion of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opin-ion of the magazine and its Publisher. All published photos and copy provided by writers and artists become the property of the Bluffton Breeze Magazine. Copyright. 2014

FOUNDERDonna Huffman

PUBLISHEREric Einhorn

[email protected]

EDITOR Randolph Stewart

[email protected] 816-4005

SALES EXECUTIVEChierie Smith

[email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSMichele Roldan-Shaw, Dot Jeger,

Amber Hester Kuehn, Michael Mavrogordato, Jevon Daly, Joel Zuckerman, Art Cornell,

Chierie Smith, Joan Morris, Claire Mackie,John Samuel Graves, III, Richard Trosdal,

Kristen Marshall Mattson

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ARTISTS Ed Funk, Chierie Smith, Jane Fielden

PRINTERAccurate Lithograph

CORPORATE OFFICE12 Johnston Way, Suite 300

P.O. Box 472, Bluffton, SC 29910843.757.8877

A time to rememberA time to forgive

Being human means living in contradiction.

We’re fighting all the timeTo do the best for ourselvesand to help others.

Too often these drives conflict.There are conflicting demands,and conflicting opinions.

We get annoyed when the world doesn’t align with our daily quest.And we take it out on others.

Conflict creates tension.It pushes us out of “safe behavior”. We no longer stay restrained, polite, considerate, kind.We say things we’d love to take back.We do things that are irreversible.

The holidays are built on good memories.But they give us a chanceto forget the bad ones,forgive those that were close,take things back,invite them in,and make them closer still.

So here’s to the festive season!A time to remember and celebrate.And a time for healing.

Find that one person.The one you’ve avoided for the pain,forgive, forget,and be merry together!

Happy Holidays,

Eric & Randolph

Letter from the Editor


December 2014, volume 12, no.12

8 Mary Graves12 Master Naturalist16 Nature: God Speaks20 Gifts Fit For a King24 Christmas Music28 Dancing with an Angel32 Coffee: The Longest Journey 42 A Commitment to Serving Others44 A Christmas Fire48 Golf: It’s Soon to be Christmas

Features

Departments 8 History11 Tide Chart 24 Music Town30 Over the Bridges38 Restaurant Guide40 Wine Within Reach47 Fellowship48 Golf Report December Cover:

“Poinsettias”by Ed Funk

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After Sherman captured Atlanta in September 1864, he did not plan to stay for long. Sherman cut free from his supply lines and headed south and east across Georgia. Along the way, his troops destroyed nearly everything in their path. Sherman's intent was to wreck the morale of the South and bring the war to a swift end.

For nearly six weeks, nothing was heard from Sherman's army. Finally, just before Christmas, word arrived that Sherman's army was outside Savannah. A Union officer reached the coast and found a Union warship that carried him to Washington, D.C., to personally deliver news of the success. Sherman wired Lincoln with the message, "I beg to present you, as a Christmas gift, the city of Savannah, with 150 heavy guns and plenty of ammunition, and also about 25,000 bales of cotton."

Give a Gift Membership to The Historical

Preservation Society for Christmas. Call 757-6293


My Aunt, Mary Elizabeth Graves, was the last Graves family member to live in the Graves House at 85 Calhoun Street. She once wrote “I am a native of Old Bluffton and it gives me great pleasure to say that the natives were, and are, the most caring, thoughtful and unselfish people I have ever known. I am proud of my heritage, as all people should be.” Mary was well educated, principled, tough minded and smart—and a fierce defender of Old Town Bluffton and its values as she saw and remembered them.

She brought her formidable intelligence into spirited battles with town leaders and developers over multiple issues concerning the directions that Bluffton was taking. She tended to be blunt and straightforward in presenting the truth as she saw it. She was fearless and considered by many to be a difficult person because she was so intractable about things she believed in and held dear. Once she had made up her mind about an issue, she made an imposing opponent. Some

would have called her a “stumbling block,” but her contentious, often contrarian character made her the “Bluffton original” that she truly was. She once said, “I’m not kind, I’m honest.” At times, her honesty got her into trouble.

Some people considered her views about Old Town Bluffton extreme, but she cared deeply about Bluffton’s Historic Preservation District and

was very proud of the fact that her home was listed as a contributing structure in that district. She cared deeply about public land remaining public, and that it not be subject to what she called “land grabs” by developers or other parties. She also cared deeply about the quality of the environment in and around Bluffton’s Old Town, especially May River and its

accesses. Anyone who threatened the integrity of the Historic Preservation District, the public lands and rights of way in Old Town, or the health and accessibility of May River would have to do battle with her. She considered herself one of the last members

Mary Graves

By John Samuel Graves III

Fierce Defender of Old Town BlufftonGiven the passionate discussions on the intended moving of the original Graves house to a new location in Bluffton, we thought it appropriate to delve a little into the history of the house and its occupants! Thanks to John Graves who provided so many fascinating details about the lady who fought for preservation. The Editor


Breeze History

of Bluffton’s “Old Guard,” and she felt that she had a personal responsibility to defend and fight for “Old Town” values. Those who opposed her quickly discovered that she possessed a rock solid integrity and could be a genuine thorn in the side. Many locals who had sparred with Mary over the years had more blunt assessments of where she caused pain!

By the time she died in 2009, members of the Graves family had lived in her house for over 100 years. Her grandfather, George Sewell Guilford, the builder of the Graves House, was Bluffton’s first mayor after its incorporation in 1903, and had served as mayor for twelve terms. He and his wife, “Doctor” Jane Guilford, had arrived in Bluffton around 1887. (Mary had been born in the Graves House in 1921, delivered by her grandmother, “Doctor” Jane Guilford.)

Mary was concerned that much of Bluffton’s colorful history was being lost, and indeed, if it had not been for her the list of the names of Bluffton’s mayors in the early 1900’s, and hand copies of their town council meeting notes and ordinances, it would have disappeared. (Unfortunately due to a leaky roof in a storage building where some of the old town records were kept, many of them were destroyed.) Some had been written by her grandfather, George Guilford. Others were signed by her father, John Samuel Graves, Sr. (my grandfather), also a mayor of Bluffton. Some of the more amusing ordinances involved the condition of “outhouses” (their lids must be kept down and the doors kept shut), the use of sling shots within town limits (they were prohibited), and the fact that yard grass had to be kept cut short (to prevent a build up of mosquitoes).

Mary Graves was proactive in her defense of Old Town’s public roads and rights of way, and of the personal property rights of its residents. She regularly attended public town meetings, spoke her mind and often wrote letters to the editor. She once said in one of her letters, “I am compelled to speak out.”A prime case in point was her fight against the re-zoning of the two parcels of land

on either side of The Bluffton Oyster Company from residential to commercial. She knew a lot of the history about that land since her brother, John Samuel Graves, Jr., (my father) had owned and operated the oyster factory (then called The Bluffton Seafood Company) for over thirty years.

She knew the town ordinances pertaining to PUD’s and was quick to point out that the two separate parcels could not meet those requirements. In a letter to the Editor of the Carolina Morning News in October of 1999 she expressed great fear of “a movement under way to close the public boat landing which juts off Wharf Street. The facility had been in use by the public for 80 to 100 years and is the only such water access in the old section of town. Closing it would be a terrible mistake.” She produced documents that proved how long the landing had been part of Bluffton’s public land and rights of way. My father, John Samuel Graves,

Jr., had leased it from the city for over thirty years.

In the same letter to the editor, Mary also took the governing body of Bluffton to task by saying, “Voters elected the present mayor and the Town Council to positions of authority and responsibility on the premise that they would protect the public interest. We trust they

will not abuse their power by yielding to the will of special interests.” Mary Graves’ resistance “to rolling over for special interests” was a constant theme, and one of her greatest strengths. Her remarks had a lot to do with the fact that the Bluffton Oyster Park Landing is here today.

Mary Graves was, like each of us, a deeply flawed person with all the attendant shortcomings and difficulties of being human, but when she was right, she was often profoundly right. On more than one occasion she was instrumental in preserving some of the things that we love most about Bluffton.

In 2009, shortly after her death, I created the Mary Elizabeth Graves Endowment at The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry on Hilton Head Island in her memory. It is my hope that other people who find themselves in agreement with its goals will also contribute to the endowment.


John Samuel Graves III was born in Savannah (because there were no hospitals in Bluffton at the time) but spent his early childhood in Bluffton. His father, John Samuel Graves, Jr., owned and operated the Bluffton Seafood Co. (now the Bluffton Oyster Co.) for over thirty years. Mr Graves is the grandson of the original owners of the Graves House on Calhoun Street.

As a child, and later during the summers, he spent many hours listening to the compositions and arrangements of his father’s first cousin, Luke Peeples, a collector and arranger of Carolina folk songs and Lowcountry Negro Spirituals. Mr. Graves has just completed the editing of those wonderful works and The Collected Works of Luke Peeples will be available very shortly at local stores. The first volume of two volumes is available right now from Jeanne Saussy Wright, 12 East Jones Street, Savannah, GA 31401. Jeanne can be emailed at [email protected].

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The three foci of the endowment are historic preservation, environmental protection and animal rights, all in and around Bluffton, reflecting Aunt Mary’s most passionate concerns. She loved dogs and was always rescuing them.

What a great irony, that within two years of her passing, with her endowment already on the books, her home, listed as a contributing structure in Bluffton’s Historic District, was condemned and slated for destruction. Aunt Mary would have been absolutely horrified—as was I.

Mary Graves was an accomplished woman from a large family. She had six brothers and one sister. She held a Bachelor of Science degree and had multiple certifications in physical therapy. She had enlisted in the Army Medical Specialist Corps during WWII and rose to the rank of Captain. She became interested in physical therapy while in the service and became a licensed physical therapist who invented and patented a mechanical, therapeutic device to relieve and prevent heel cord contractures. She became an authority on the physiology of the nervous and muscle systems of the hand.

John Samuel Graves Sr.

After Mary retired, she relied entirely on a meager social security income and was not able to tend fully to the needs of her old house. Nevertheless, she did try over the years to maintain it as best she could on her limited income. Mary believed that houses have souls. Her house was filled with the ghosts of her immediate and extended family. A large picture of her Grandmother Guilford hung in her living room. Every room presented her with over eighty-five years of memories. Neither she nor her heirs wanted her home destroyed.

Those of us who have lived in Bluffton know what a jewel Bluffton is and has been. Many of us want to see the old homes in the Bluffton Historical Preservation District and their histories preserved. Historic homes, as long as they are permitted to stand, present a living testimony to the lives, loves, struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. Let us not forget these people.

Just placing homes on a “contributing structures” list of historic properties has proven completely inadequate. For more information about placing real protections on these homes please read the material under the Historic Preservation Easements tab on graveshouse.org.

Footnote on the Author


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Tide chart is calculated for the May River Breeze Tides


“Wait, what kind of bird just flew by?”

“Why are the tides so high in the creek by my house?!”

“That wildflower is so pretty -- I wish I knew what it was.”

There is a program where you can learn these answers, but it is one of the best kept secrets in the Lowcountry. There is no advertising , but its classes always fill up months ahead of time. So what is its secret? Answer: Participants say it is a life changing experience and they tell their friends about it. This grassroots program is the Lowcountry Master Naturalist Program at Spring Island.

In 1999 someone told the late Jack Keener,

then a Beaufort County Extension agent, about Master Naturalist programs starting in Texas and Florida, and suggested he start one here. Jack pulled together a team of support people from Lowcountry Institute, SC Department of Natural Resources and Clemson Extension, resulting in the first Master Naturalist class in South Carolina being offered here in 2000. In 2003 the Lowcountry Institute (LCI) became Clemson Extension’s local partner. In 2005 LCI helped Clemson Extension to expand the program statewide and there are now six other host sites around the state. Today, LCI staff continue to teach the course and there are over 650 people who have completed the program.

The key to the Master Naturalist program is its emphasis on experiential learning. Participants

“Master Naturalist”By Kristen Marshall Mattson

If you moved here from somewhere, you were most certainly drawn to a very unique and special place. Coastal South Carolina wildlife and topography is intricate and overwhelming...and right at your back door. If you are a bit unsure of where to begin, that’s understandable...just let the experts get you started on a life long love affair with Lowcountry nature. Amber Hester Kuehn, Environmental Editor.


spend 12 sessions in the field with expert naturalists gaining first-hand knowledge and experience with local ecology. Several of these sessions occur on Spring Island, a private residential community with over 1,400 acres of nature preserve and the home of the Lowcountry Institute. Other field trips take place on both public and private lands, such as at Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Nemour’s Plantation, Congaree National Park, Audubon’s Beidler Forest, Fish Haul Creek Park on Hilton Head Island, and Hunting Island State Park. Lessons during the course include mapping activities, beach walks, surveys of salt marsh organisms, examining marine invertebrates under microscopes, trawling in the ACE basin estuary, learning how to identify and classify various groups of organisms, bird watching, and trapping fish, reptiles, and amphibians. By incorporating shared experiences as the basis for learning, there is a real sense of discovery and wonder imparted to participants…and most of all, we have FUN!

The experience is not over when the class is completed. One of the goals is to create a corps of volunteers who give back to the community through service that emphasizes natural resources. Volunteer projects range from educating children, residents, or visitors about the environment, participating in citizen science research, performing ecological services such as roadside cleanups, habitat restoration, or nature trail maintenance, and contributing back to the program itself. In 2013, Lowcountry Master Naturalists contributed over 7,200 hours of volunteer service.

Graduates of the Lowcountry class may join the Lowcountry Master Naturalist Association

(LCMNA) upon completion of the course. The Association is a 501c3 nonprofit and was created to provide Master Naturalists with continuing education opportunities, networking, and volunteer projects. The LCMNA sponsors quarterly meetings with speakers, provides many options for participating in volunteer programs. It also organizes “advanced training” field trips for graduates to further increase their knowledge about Lowcountry ecology and the environment.

Lowcountry Master Naturalists have contributed in significant ways to our community. The founding of Fort Fremont Historical Park on St. Helena Island was due to the work of Master Naturalists who saw that conserving the 15-acre site had environmental and historical value. Restoration of Crystal Lake Park on Lady’s Island, a passive nature park, was also due to the hard work of Master Naturalist volunteers. Both sites were purchased and put into conservation by the Beaufort County Rural and Critical Lands program. On Hilton Head Island, many Master Naturalists serve as docents leading nature programs at the Coastal Discovery Museum. These are just a few of the many ways Master Naturalists are involved in our region.

There is also a Master Naturalist class offered by LCI that is designed specifically for K-12 school teachers. These dedicated teachers give up one Saturday per month for the entire school year to participate. They not only learn about the ecology of the Lowcountry, but they are also given the tools to bring nature into their classrooms, inspiring future generations to have a greater sense of place in the region where they live. The program

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emphasizes connecting nature to people, history, geography, and math, further enriching the education of the students. Registration is through the Beaufort County School District. The Teacher Master Naturalist program is grant funded, so it is available at no cost to the teacher.

The Lowcountry Master Naturalist class is offered in both the fall and the spring, with registration opening six months prior to the start of a class. Cost is $600 and includes nine field guides, course materials, entrance to field trip sites, and instruction by some of the area’s most knowledgeable naturalists and environmental educators. The course has consistently filled every time it has been offered so you should plan to register early if you wish to participate! For more information about the program and to register for an upcoming class, visit the LCI website, www.lowcountryinstitute.org.

Kristen Marshall Mattson is an environmental educator for the Lowcountry Institute (LCI) on Spring Island. She has been an instructor with the Master Naturalist program for 6 years. Prior to coming to the Lowcountry she taught biology at Coastal Carolina Community College in North Carolina, and is originally from central Florida.


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The lyrics of this song did not inspire me to write these words, but they were inspired by the same truth. It all comes down to one powerful suggestion, God’s subtle direction.

“He is jealous for me. Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree, bending beneath the weight of His wind and mercy. When all of the sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory and I realize just how beautiful you are and how great your affections are for me. We are His portion and He is our prize, drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes. If His grace is an Ocean, we’re all sinking. And Heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss and my heart turns violently inside of my chest. I don’t have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way He loves us.”

– The David Crowder Band Over the past year, I’ve written monthly articles marveling at nature. Nature led me to my passion. It is an awesome vessel of inspiration. Are you inspired? Have you found your passion? I’m not sure that I understood the true meaning of the word “inspired” until recent years. Although I could immerse myself in nature growing up in Bluffton, I was not aware of the message that it delivered on a daily basis. Sunsets and sunrises, tidal ebb and flow, dolphins, the rebirth of the marsh grass every Spring….the list is a mile long and it was always there…every day, every season. I went through 5 years of college uninspired. The first time that I remember feeling “my heart turn violently inside of my chest” was while watching an underwater documentary on television. I honestly couldn’t stop crying and that was a little weird. Those people were scuba diving and that seemed so unattainable. Unfulfilled, I graduated and moved home to Bluffton…

A personal reflection by Amber Hester Kuehn, Environmental Editor

N a t u r e : G o d S p e a k s


My First Hint

Believe it or not, Hilton Head Island had a scuba dive shop and I sold my television to afford a ridiculously expensive scuba diving course. It wasn’t so impossible after all. Turns out I was good at it…and obsessed with it. Two years later, I felt it again in 70 feet of water on the Ocean floor. An advantage to working as dive boat crew is that you are able to feed your habit for free in short bursts; I was unhooking the dive boat anchor from the Eagle’s Nest wreck after the paying customers were all on board. I took my time as this was my opportunity to dive when I saw the largest and the only sea turtle that I had ever seen in the water as it emerged from the shadows. I stood still as it approached me. Face to face, I gave way and I let my tank fall to the sand as it gracefully swam over me…inches from my fingertips. I laid there staring up at the anchor ascending, knowing that when I emerged from the water, my life would be changed by this experience. Do you know how hard it is to cry with a mask on your face and regulator in your mouth?

Fast forward: 15 years of sea turtle conservation, a marine biology master’s degree and HHI sea turtle protection project manager, I know that it was simply a magnificent hint. It is possible that I took it a little too far…the tattoo was a bit much. I’d moved to South Florida to pursue knowledge of sea turtles and Hawaii after that, but I was still unfulfilled. How could that be?! What would it take to get that feeling again? The Humpback whale encounter, the whale shark that let me hitch a ride on its dorsal fin, the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean…they all impressed me, but did not move me. Was I dead inside? I still wasn’t receiving the message.

A Simple Thank You

I remember one day on a run being extremely bored and uncomfortable, so I started making up a childish song to take my mind off of the discomfort. The words were thanking God for the leaf that I stepped on, for the plumeria blossoms that I smelled, for the chicken crossing the road, for the green grass, for the volcano, for the sunshine, for the water that I was drinking, for the shoes that I was wearing…anything that I encountered in that moment. It was not a remarkable song, but it was a significant moment in my life. I was acknowledging God and his creation. Things started to change after that although I still didn’t make the connection. I had always considered myself a Christian, but had never felt the peace or joy that should come with it. Ten years after the song, I’m married to the man that I met later that summer…I can see the hint: Glorify God in all that you do.

Looking back, I appreciate nature for being God’s hand that directed my path. I’m sure that I did not see all of the hints, but the goal was the same. I cannot give nature all of the credit. Sometimes God uses bad things that happen for good. My ultimate hint came when a family member died suddenly in a head on collision with a drunk driver. All of nature’s subtle hints combined could not have moved me in the way that this incident did. She was the one that took me to church every Sunday…the same one who made the Bluffton Today when she saw the initials “JC” appear on one of her garden tomatoes! It is the only time that forgiveness came so easily, because the Holy Spirit did not just visit this time, He stayed. A couple of weeks before, I had emerged from the water with a new outlook, except this time it had not been a scuba dive, it was a baptism. The lyrics of the song sum it up beautifully…I know He wants my attention. His Love is powerful like a hurricane. He will let me bend, but he won’t let me break. He will take my afflictions and replace them with His glory. His creation is beautiful and He loves me. His grace is larger than the Ocean. When Heaven, the Holy Spirit, is on earth in my heart, it is exciting and it moves me. All sins and regrets are washed away.

Subtle hints are nature’s way. God’s Glory is constantly before you in the beauty of His design and He wants you to see it. He is jealous for your attention. Nature, God’s creation, allows the Holy Spirit to inspire me and Jesus, His ultimate gift, is my passion. Don’t get me wrong…sea turtles are awesome, but they represent something more. They are a reflection of His brilliance. We have already received the ultimate gift if we will just acknowledge it and our world is decorated every day with the most beautiful creations.

They Keep Coming

The other day, I walked to the mudflat and watched an army of fiddler crabs move across the flat in formation. The sun was setting and their shadows seemed to double their numbers. I was so inspired and I thanked God for letting me see that. I was a little surprised that this impressed me so much as I had seen it many times before. Maybe I will see the hint when I look back in a few years. Meanwhile, I will enjoy the view! Merry Christmas!

Dictionary DefinitionsInspiration

1. To move air into the lungs 2. Sudden artistic creativity

3. A divine influence that communicates truth

Passion 1. Strong and barely controllable emotion

2. The suffering and death of Jesus Christ


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Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Consider the selections of the three wise men; these Persian astronomers had the right idea when they honored the baby Jesus with their kingly treasures. But on top of the monetary value of what they brought, they likely chose their offerings for their spiritual implications as well; gold representing Jesus the king, frankincense a symbol of his priesthood to come, and myrrh a presage of his death and embalming. John Hopkins’s Christmas carol “We Three Kings of Orient Are” reinforces this interpretation of their choices in song.

“Born a king on Bethlehem’s plain, gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, over us all to reign.”

Gold has been mined for at least 7000 years and is panned, sluiced and mined all over the world today. Since the beginning of civilization, total world production of gold is estimated at 4,970,000,000 troy ounces. A gift of gold would certainly be just as well received today as it was when Jesus was born, retaining its value whether in bouillon or baubles. It can buy food and shelter, education and comfort, and knows no boundaries in its ability to do good when shared. But frankincense and myrrh are also extremely valuable, and may prove to be even more so, especially in the field of medicine.

“Frankincense to offer have I; incense owns a deity nigh; prayer and praising, voices raising, worshiping God on high.”

Frankincense (Boswellia frereana) is from the botanical family Burseraceas and is extracted from the tree’s gum resin by steam distillation. It is a holy oil in the Middle East and was used during ancient sacrificial ceremonies to improve communication with the creator. It has a deep, rich, balsamic aroma and has long been used in treating asthma, depression and ulcers. Frankincense has antidepressant, antiseptic, and antitumor properties and is useful in treating skin maladies. Studies have shown that it can pass the blood-brain barrier and may be useful in treating immune system deficiencies as well as Alzheimer’s disease. Widely used in aromatherapy, it blends well with other oils and is used extensively in perfumes as well as incense. The aroma is said to enhance spiritual awareness and meditation. It is edible and can be chewed like gum. Frankincense woodlands are rapidly disappearing because of overgrazing and damage done by the longhorn beetle. Still, about 1000 tons are produced yearly, mostly from Somalia, and recent experiments with it show promise in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and ovarian cancer cells.

Gifts fit for a kingBy Clare Mackie

Frankincense, gold and myrrh ... and the myrrh tree


“Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom; sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, sealed in the stone-cold tomb.”

Myrrh is extracted from the resin of a small thorny tree of the genus Commiphora. It was used as incense in ancient religious rituals, in embalming, and as a cure for a long list of diseases, including cancer and leprosy. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and has a positive effect on

hormones, the immune and nervous systems, and the skin. Its woody, earthy scent is said to increase awareness and create an uplifted mood, its “bitter perfume” moving the Qi and having a therapeutic effect on arthritis. It is a common ingredient in mouthwashes, toothpaste, and gargles, and is widely used as a liniment and in salves for the skin. Twice as expensive as frankincense, recent droughts have caused prices to soar even higher.

All three kingly gifts are elements of the earth, all of difficult extraction and therefore expensive, and all having the potential to improve the health or wealth of the recipient. So will you wrap up gold, frankincense and myrrh for your holiday giving? Probably not, but consider the thought behind the wise men’s gifts and you will not go wrong: give gifts that have special meaning to the recipient rather than simply going for the latest trendy item in fashion or technology. Better yet, look for ways to honor your recipient by giving a gift in his or her honor to a deserving cause. This way, your gift, too, might travel day and night for miles to be given to a person you have never met, and it just might make a huge difference in someone’s life just as the gifts of the magi did so long ago.


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The Simple Things in life...By Chierie Smith

Waking up after a night of storms and watching the morning sun rise to begin a new day. Setting seeds out for the birds, while the coffee is brewing. Listening to the songs of different birds as they talk to one another while the streets are still quiet. The crickets join in not to be unheard...This was how my morning started as I enjoyed my coffee on the front porch steps...That is the simple things life gives you and it's all free...

Life in BalanceBy Art Cornell

There is a certain cadence,A tempo to life here.The movement of the tides,The changing colors of the marsh grass,The seasons moving across each day.The rhythm of the Lowcountry,Neither slow nor fast,Life on exhale.And if you are lucky you just might findA glimmer of meaning to one’s being,That is, if you take the time toLook for it.


Christmas Music The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

Happy Holidays everyone out there in Bluffton! Tis the season to shop till ya drop, eat till you cannot button your pants, and most of all listen to Christmas songs!!!!

What is your favorite Christmas song? What do you think of Alvin and the Chipmunks’ Christmas Album? Do you think it is okay to play Deck the Halls before thanksgiving?? There are movies we cannot do without during this time {A Christmas Story,etc.} and egg nog to drink while everyone sings carols. But what I’ve noticed is that kids generally love Christmas songs and adults not so much. It may just be when dad hears “Silver Bells” all he is thinking of is the gym membership he will need after eating the mother in law’s fruitcake. Moms tend to sing more during the holidays if they can make the tax free weekend and actually get all the online shopping done before Santa tries to squeeze down the chimney! Maybe Santa should join crossfit -

I myself love christmas songs. I like when David Bowie sings them. I like the dirty ones - “i saw mommy kissing Santa Claus” comes to mind - ok. Maybe there is only one dirty one. We Three Kings is nice. Deck the Halls -eh . I guess some of them seem to get played too much and some not enough. I would like to list my top 10 favorite obscure holiday tunes. Maybe even throw in a little fact about each one.

1.”Christmas Don’t Be Late” I just love the chipmunks and remember hearing this one when i was real little. I wore the album out. And “david Seville” wrote the song and sang it. And it has yelling in it so it feels like the holidays to me.

2.”I saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” sung by MJ. Do i need to even say anything about this perfect marriage of singer and song? NO!

3.”All i want for christmas is my 2 front teeth” was written by a 2nd grade teacher and was “picked

By Jevon Daly


up” by Americans by word of mouth! WOW.........RuPaul does a horribly funny version some of you may actually hear after reading this....oh...whoopsie.....you’re googling it now.....ew

4.”Frosty the Snowman” duh.

5.”Feliz Navidad” is a fun one to sing if you can’t find the rum or forgot to buy it and are substituting Tequila in the nog.

6. “The Christmas Song” is a good one because no one really knows more than the first line or two. But the 1st line can be funny to immature people.....like me.

7. “Silent NIght” is a beautiful melody about the birth of Jesus and everyone knows it so if you are really gonna try and sing carols with family or friends you can always include this one even if everyone is bombing on lyrics to tunes like Rudolph. And everyone knows Rudolph.....well - until you have to name the reindeer.

8. “Grandma got run over by a Reindeer” Aw shucks, it is about a drunk grandma....man...this list is full of songs about drinking....but in this song Grandma goes to the great beyond. Santa is accused of playing with elves and not having a drivers license in the song. Who knew????

9.”White Christmas” is a good one. Bing Crosby can croon his butt off. I wanna see snow on christmas every year. It never happens. Bah Humbug.

10. “What Child is This?” is a song written to the tune of Greensleeves. We all know how it goes and John Coltrane can really play Greensleeves so what the heck . Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope you all get what you wanted this year, but most of all be happy that everyone in the family is healthy around the holidays. There are usually a lot of arguments around christmas for silly reasons . Try to enjoy the family and maybe it will snow !!! Happy Holidays!!!!

... and there is nothing that can match the sound of beautiful children’s voices singing real Chrismas songs! (Publisher’s footnote)

Breeze Music Town


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It is difficult to write when your heart is broken and to be vulnerable in a world that is unforgiving. We all have our challenges in like, and some of us handle them better than others. The test of our true character is our ability to not become jaded when terrible things happen. My cousin, Kathryn Curran, was a champion when it came to dealing with adversity.

The strongest hearts are the most humble. This is the lesson I learned back in 1997, the night of the Savannah Cotillion. Kathryn was making her debut at the event on that December evening. It was her night to be introduced into society not unlike a young woman’s “Sweet Sixteen Party.” The honor was mine when she asked me to escort her to the ball.

The Cotillion was held in one of the regal hotels in downtown Savannah. It was a location full of glitz and glamour. Everyone we knew was there for the occasion. This was an important night for each of the girls who were being presented and most notably for Kathryn. You see, Kathryn was very special. She was different from the rest of the young ladies that night and from hundreds of other young ladies whom had gone before her at that place and in that tradition. And this was her night…her night.

As we walked down to the grand ballroom we admired the hotel decorated for the holidays with

lots of lights and there were people everywhere.

We could tell the other cotillion attendees by their white ties, tails, and evening gowns. It was the height of the holiday season, and joy was in the air.

We said “goodbye” to the rest of our family and proceeded into a side room with other debutantes and their escorts. We were all behind a large black curtain in a designated section of the ballroom. Everyone was charged with anticipation for our grand entrance on the other side of the curtain.

While we were sitting there, I put my hand on Kathryn’s s h o u l d e r , and she was trembling with excitement. I got butterflies at that moment as well.

Kathryn and I watched each girl and her date walk through the curtain and emerge to the applause on the other side. When it was our turn the usher

came over and said, “It’s time, come stand over here.” We did as she instructed. I was standing behind Kathryn, both of us staring at the black curtain shaking in our shoes. Everyone else had gone through…we were the last ones. We had grown up close to each other, laughing, playing on the beach, swimming in the river, singing songs, and reading books together. Kathryn was more of a sister to me than a cousin, and I was thrilled to share this big grown up moment with her.

By Richard Trosdal (A reprint by special request)

Dancing with an Angel


Suddenly the curtain opened, the spotlights were shinning in our eyes and thunderous applause erupted in the ballroom. I grabbed the handles of Kathryn’s wheelchair and pushed her in to the grand hall. All of the smiles, clapping, and lights were enough to make your head spin. There were so many familiar faces in the crowd. Love permeated the room. Kathryn’s big moment had arrived, and she took it in beautifully as we made our way around the perimeter of the dance floor. She was loved by so many people for so many reasons. Kathryn brought out the best in everyone, and here we all were in this wonderful celebration. And she loved to celebrate.

The hope I have for my family is that we never forget the example which Kathryn set for us. We should not let our disappointments, frustrations, and fears get in the way of truly long one another and enjoying our lies together even in the face of obstacles. Yes, life is difficult, and there are many challenges and imperfections, but that is exactly what makes life rich and beautiful. Living it can bring both vulnerability and humility. Being vulnerable and humble makes us real. In many ways Kathryn, because of her vulnerability and in her humility became the glue which held our family and many friends together. She has never forgotten a birthday or an anniversary, and she has always been the first person to call and spread joy and good news.

The night I escorted Kathryn to the Cotillion and danced with her on the ballroom floor is a memory I will cherish forever because despite her own inability to walk, she had both of us dancing like there was no tomorrow.

Why don’t we all follow Kathryn’s lead? Let’s reach out to one another and not forget the importance of making each other feel special in spite of our short comings. How different the world would be if none of these things without great effort, but she did not allow that to get in her way of living a life of love, selflessness, and dignity.

We all have our challenges in like and some of us handle them better than others. Kathryn handle her challenges better than all of us combined. She was born with cerebral palsy and was confined to a wheelchair but that never slowed her sown. She continued singing the songs of her youth into her early adulthood. My cousin, Kathryn, passed away from complications ruling from breast cancer. The tears are still fresh even as I write these words…

We love and miss you, Kathryn. You are an inspiration to us all.

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CHRISTMAS PARADES, TREE LIGHTINGS, SHOPPING

*Nov. 28-Dec. 31 Sea Pines. Christmas Village Lights Display, plus free pictures with Santa on Fri.-Sat. 3-7 pm until 12/22. Salty Dog, 671-2233, 224 S. Sea Pines Dr., HHI. Free Admission to Christmas Village ($6/car entry to Resort)

*Dec. 5 Old Town Bluffton. Old Town Merchants offer shopping for unique gifts from 3-8 pm. Tree Lighting at the Town Hall (Pritchard & Bridge Sts.) from 5-6:30 pm 706-4500. Free

*Dec. 5 Beaufort. Shopping, entertainment, and Tree Lighting. Downtown Beaufort, 525-6644, Freedom Mall, Bay St. 6-9 pm Free

*Dec. 5-6 Savannah. Arts & Crafts Fair at Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, 115 E. River St., Sav. Fri. 4-10 pm, Sat. 10 am-10 pm. Lighted Parade starts at W. River St. and ends at Ellis Square. Sat. 5:30 pm River Street Savannah, 912-234-0295 Free

*Dec. 6 Old Town Bluffton. Parade starts at Pritchard & Bridge Sts. and ends on May River Rd. at Red Cedar Rd. Hilton Head Island/Bluffton or Town of Bluffton, 706-4500. Starts at 10 am Free

*Dec. 6 Beaufort. Boat Parade on the Beaufort River. Downtown Beaufort, 521-3771, Waterfront Park. 5:30-8:30 pm Free

*Dec. 7 Bluffton. Tree Lighting at Buckwalter Place. Hilton Head Island/Bluffton or Town of Bluffton, 706-4500. 3:45 pm Free

*Dec. 7 Beaufort. Parade runs through Downtown Beaufort, 525-6644, on Boundary, Carteret, & Bay Sts. 3 pm Free

*Dec. 13 Hardeeville. Parade starts at Hummingbird Lane and ends after Randall St. on Main St. Tree Lighting after the Parade at Hardeeville City Hall, 205 E. Main St. Chamber of Commerce, 784-3606. 6 pm Free

*Dec. 5 NIGHT ON THE TOWN Downtown businesses stay open late. Entertainment by local choirs, dance groups, clubs, and the Parris Island Marine Corps Band. Christmas Tree lighting with Santa. Downtown Beaufort, 525-6644, Freedom Mall, Bay St. 6-9 pm

Nov. 28-Dec. 28 FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & WINTER CARNIVAL featuring a drive thru light show, winter themed “Fun Zone,” Ferris Wheel and other rides, Savannah Harbor Foundation, 912-201-2201, Westin Savannah Harbor Resort, One International Dr. (Hutchinson Island). Thurs.-Sun. 6-10 pm (11/28-12/14), Daily 6-10 pm (12/18-28). Open Christmas day. $20/car (up to 8) (Free Parking at the Convention Center)

*Nov. 28-Dec. 24 DECEMBER NIGHTS AND HOLIDAY LIGHTS The gardens are lit with over 275,000 lights in this festive evening event that is the regional “must-see!” Music and sweet treats add to the holiday experience on this walking tour. Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (aka the Bamboo Farm), 912-921-5460, 2 Canebrake Rd., Sav. Thurs.-Sun. & 12/22-24. 6-9 pm $5

BEAUFORT

*Tues.-Sat. PORT ROYAL SOUND FOUNDATION MARITIME CENTER Located in the former Lemon Island Marina, the center is dedicated to the betterment and conservation of the waters and lands of the Port Royal Sound area. Workshops, lectures, eco-tours on the Chechessee River via boat, and more. Port Royal Sound Foundation, 645-7774, 310 Okatie Hwy., Okatie. 10 am-5 pm Free Admission*

Dec. 4 & 7 Beaufort Symphony Orchestra (Tix box), 800-595-4849, Sea Island Presb. Church, 81 Lady’s Island Dr., Beaufort Thurs. 7:30 pm, Sun. 4 pm $37.50 (Students $5)

*Dec. 5 A GULLAH KINFOLK CHRISTMAS WISH Virtually all relatives, the closeness of this dynamic group is apparent from the first song. A Gullah feast will be served before the show and is included in the ticket price. USCB Center for the Arts, 521-4145, 805 Carteret St., Beaufort. Tickets: Eventbrite.com or call 986-1102. 7 pm $35 (In Advance $30, Kids $10) *Beaufort County ARTworks, 379-2787, 2127 Boundary St., Beaufort (K-Mart Plaza).

*Nov. 14-Dec. 25 Holiday Gift Gallery A “pop up” gift shop. Tues.-Fri. 11 am-6 pm, Sat. noon-4 pm Items by local artists for sale

*Dec. 4-6 A Christmas Carol A holiday classic! Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 pm, Sun. 3 pm $17 (Students $15, Kids/Active Military $12)

*Dec. 7 A Swingin’ Christmas Holiday standards from the ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s. 3 pm $20

*Dec. 12 A Celtic Christmas Traditional Christmas songs and stories from Scotland and Ireland. 7:30 pm $20

*Dec. 18-21 MIRACLE IN BEDFORD FALLS The beloved American film, It’s a Wonderful Life, is transformed into a joyful and stirring new holiday musical! , 521-4145, 805 Carteret St., Beaufort. Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 pm, Sun. 3 pm $25 (Seniors $20, Students $15)

HILTON HEAD ISLAND

*Dec. 1 Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, HOLIDAY POPS 842-2055, First Presb. Church, 540 Wm. Hilton Pwy., HHI. 4 & 8 pm $25, 40, 50

*Dec. 5 TASTE OF THE SEASON! Get holiday inspiration and experience the innovative cuisine of top area chefs as they share their culinary fare from more than 35 restaurants. Tickets online or at Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, 216 Bluffton Rd. Hilton Head Chamber of Commerce, 341-8379, HH Marriott Resort & Spa, One Hotel Cir., HHI. 6-9 pm $55, 75

Dec. 5 HHI WINTER WONDER FESTIVAL Hayrides, carnival games, petting zoo, and more – plus a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Island Rec Center, 681-7273 Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, HHI. 4-8 pm Kids $10 (Parents are Free!)

*Dec. 3-7 HOLIDAY ON MAIN STREET This original Christmas holiday Cabaret is a “musical Christmas card” to Hilton Head Island. Main Street Theatre, 689-6246, 3000 Main St., HHI. Wed.-Sat. 7 pm, Sun. 2 pm $20 (Students $10) Gala Fundraiser on Dec. 2 includes food, drinks, and the show. 5:30 pm $30 (Students $20)

*Dec. 3-28 SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN This romantic comedy focuses on Don and Lina, two silent movie stars in their transition to the early days of “talkies.” Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 842-2787, 17 Shelter Cove Lane, HHI. Tues.-Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 & 7 pm (12/14 2 pm only, Mon. 12/22 8 pm, no show 12/24-25) $57 (Kids $39) (Preview $47, Kids $33)

December. 7 2ND ANNUAL ARTISAN VILLAGE ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR features the work and creations of local artisans with their eclectic and creative “Made on Daufuskie” items. Hilton Head Island, 678-897-0942, 348 Haig Point Rd. (Daufuskie Community Farm in the Dairy Barn). Note: Dafuskie is accessible only by boat. 1-4 pm Free ($45 boat to island)

*Dec. 12 SING WE NOW OF CHRISTMAS This is a musical sleigh overflowing with traditional holiday tunes and carols. Hilton Head Choral Society and Orchestra, 341-3818, First


Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy. 8 pm $25, 30

*Dec. 13 MOTOWN! MOTOWN! PARTY! Myles Savage, lead singer of The Platters and Lynna Davis from Diana Ross’ Supremes bring you this live concert with ’50s and ’60s vocal-based rhythm and blues. H. H. High School Seahawks Cultural Center, 689-4800, 70 Wilborn Rd. For tickets call 904-679-5550. 7 pm $40, 60

*COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM, 689-6767, 70 Honey Horn Dr., HHI. Reservations required for these events.

*Dec. 2-30 (Tuesdays) The Island’s Story Learn about the island’s participants from Native Americans to Gullah Islanders to modern day residents. 3 pm $

*Dec. 3 Whales of South Carolina Dr. Al Segars, Veterinarian with SC Dept. of Natural Resources, will address the natural history of the whales that visit our waters and their status, along with threats and challenges. 3 pm $7

*Dec. 17 Historic Tabby Construction “Tabby” is a type of building material used in the coastal Southeast from late 1500-1850. Colin Brooker, expert on “Tabby” and similar building materials, will discuss his most recent projects in the Lowcountry. 3 pm $7

*Jan. 7 Bald Eagles Tom Murphy, retired biologist from SC Dept. of Natural Resources, will share the story of the Bald Eagles from near extinction to recovery in the Lowcountry. 3 pm $7

*Dec. 20 “POLAR EXPRESS” MOVIE NIGHT Get into the holiday spirit with this magical movie. A fire pit and s’mores will also be available. Sea Pines (Recreation/Events), 842-1979, 32 Greenwood Dr. (under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town), HHI. 7-9 pm Free Admission with a canned good donation for the “Deep Well Charity” ($6/car entry to Resort)

*Dec. 25 OUR COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER A traditional turkey buffet at no charge for residents and visitors away from their loved ones! Diners’ free-will offerings go to “Meals on Wheels” and “Second Helpings.” Reservations are encouraged; call 705-5725 or 304-1086. Hilton Head Island, First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy., HHI. 11 am-3 pm Free

Dec. 31 HHI 14th ANNUAL POLAR BEAR SWIM! Show your adventurous side with the other “polar bears” by taking a dip on a chilly winter day! Sea Pines, 842-1979, 32 Greenwood Dr. (Harbour Town Pool), HHI. 10 am Free Admission to Swim ($6/car entry to Resort)

SAVANNAH

*Dec. 4 SISTER ACT Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken, this Savannah Civic Center, 912-651-6550, Johnny Mercer Theatre, 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave. 7 pm $30-60

Dec. 7 FREE FAMILY DAY – JEPSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS Make Your Mark! Art making activities for families and a demonstration by artist and teacher, Kenneth Martin. Telfair Museums, 912-790-8800, 207 W. York St., Sav. 1-4 pm Free

*Dec. 12-13 Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus SCAD Box Office (All Events), 912-525-5050, Cathedral of St. John, 222 E. Harris St., Sav. 7:30 pm $18-100

*Dec. 13 Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus family concert. (see above) 3 pm $10 ($25/family of 4)

*Dec. 6 THE NUTCRAKEER Join Clara as she goes from a fabulous holiday party set in 1940’s Savannah to a dream unlike any other. SCAD Box Office (All Events), 912-525-5050, Lucas Theatre, 32 Abercorn St., Sav. 2 & 8 pm $12-38

*Nov. 27-Dec. 26 A CHRISTMAS TRADITION Holiday glitz &

glitter! Savannah Theatre, 912-233-7764, 222 Bull St. Tues.-Fri. 8 pm, Sat. 3 & 8 pm, Sun. 3 pm (Mon. 12/22 8 pm, 12/24 2 pm, no show 12/25) $37.45 (Coupon $34.24, Group of 20 $30, Kids $18.19)

*Dec. 3-7, 10-14 Join THE JOURNEY to Bethlehem. Cross the Sea of Galilee to the market-place. Dress prepared to walk roughly 3/10 of a mile on a cleared path through the woods at Savannah Christian Church. (*Golf carts are available for people with special needs.) SCC Journey, 912-925-9657, 55 Al Henderson Blvd., Sav. 5-8 pm $7 (Specific Time tickets available online for $10)

BLUFFTON

Now-Dec. 14 SOUTHERN LIVING HOUSE This will be your last chance to visit this year’s house. Southern Living Idea House, 33 Waterfowl Rd., Palmetto Bluff. Wed.-Sat. 10 am-4 pm, Sun. noon-4 pm $15*

Dec. 13 METOPERA – LIVE! presents Wagner’s “Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.” Cinemark, 757-2859, 106 Buckwalter Pkwy., Bluffton. noon $24 (Seniors $22, Kids $16) Encore: Dec. 17, 6:30 pm $22 (Seniors $20, Kids $15)

Dec. 13 ST. LUKE’S LOWCOUNTRY CHRISTMAS Church* and cemetery tour, refreshments, and silent auction. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 705-3022, 3080 Okatie Hwy. (Rt. 170 between the two back gates of Sun City) 2-5 pm Free

*Dec. 4 IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS Come to the Christmas Dance Party. There’ll be a special holiday sale, raffles with prizes, and lots of great food and dancing. Dress up in your best holiday attire (you could win a prize)! Fred Astaire Dance Studio, 837-6161, Seaquins Ballroom, 1300 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton. 7 pm Bring a dish for admission

*Dec. 9 CHARLESTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY BRASS Right here in Bluffton! A fun, family-friendly concert of favorite Christmas and holiday songs as well as hymn sing-a-longs. Tickets are available at Charleston Symphony Orchestra (call 843-723-7528 ext. 110) or at Bluffton United Methodist Church (Music), 757-3351, 101 Calhoun St. 7 pm $10 (Kids $5)

*Dec. 14 DARKNESS INTO LIGHT The Chancel Choir presents the cantata by Mary McDonald. The Wesley Ringers offer seasonal handbell selections. Bluffton United Methodist Church (Music), 757-3351, 101 Calhoun St. 8:45 & 11 am Free-will offering

*Dec. 2 COMBAHEE RIVER RAID LECTURE & BOOK SIGNING Join author, Jeff W. Grigg. Bluffton Public Library, 757-6293, 120 Palmetto Way. 2-4 pm Free

*Dec. 17 LUNCH WITH AUTHOR: JOHN WARLEY A Southern Girl is about Charleston’s mysterious and glittering high society. USCB Lunch With Author, 521-4147, Belfair Country Club, 200 Belfair Oaks Blvd., Bluffton. Reservations required. noon $42


From Folgers to Fair Trade, Kona coffee to cowboy coffee, double ristretto to instant French vanilla cappuccino from 7-11, Colombian Supremo to regular ol’ cuppa joe, and of course our locally roasted Bluffton Corner Perk brew…the variety in coffee is staggering. People with educated palettes might detect any of 36 official flavor notes in a good cup, including walnut, apricot, rice, honey, butter, cardamom, tobacco or tea rose. The world’s most extravagant “Black Ivory” coffee sells for a $1000 per kilo, after having passed through the systems of elephants in Thailand (yes the beans are collected from their dung) so that much of the bitter taste is removed by digestive enzymes. A similar though slightly less expensive blend is “Kopi Luwak,” pooped out by Asian palm civets. Suffice it to say a lot more goes into coffee than sugar and cream.

Legend holds its stimulant properties were first discovered by an Ethiopian goatherder who noticed his animals got downright frisky after eating berries off a certain bush. Some say the boy feasted and frolicked too; others that he took the strange fruits to a monastery where suspicious friars promptly threw them in the fire, only to get so enticed by the roasting aroma that they brewed the first coffee ever and stayed up all night in prayer. If that actually happened—which most modern sources agree it didn’t—the year might have been around 800. Other early chapters in coffee history have North Africans fermenting wine with the pulp, making power bars by mashing the fruits with animal fat, and accidentally transplanting seeds via the guts of slaves of who ate them en route to the Middle Eastern port city of Mocha. Nice.

A more reliable history of coffee as we know it begins in 15th century Arabia, where very prayerful Sufi Muslims found it helpful for their all-night sessions. A colorful chapter ensued as coffeehouses began springing up around the Middle East, fomenting dangerous intellectualism and sedition, and causing coffee to be briefly banned. As its popularity grew, Arabians tried to corner the market by prohibiting export of fertile beans, until a dude named Baba Budan escaped to India with seven seeds strapped to his chest (or so the story goes.) By the 1600’s coffee was spreading around the globe along with tea and hot chocolate—the colonial period really gave us some good stuff!—and it wasn’t long before big plantations sprang up and the East India Trading Company got on board.

The coffee plant is an evergreen shrub cultivated in tropical countries around the world; today’s top producers include Brazil, Vietnam, Indonesia, Colombia and Ethiopia. Its little round fruits are called berries and have a juicy red color when ripe, and inside is the seed that when roasted and brewed becomes coffee. Once in Mexico I was walking with a friend who pointed out some wild coffee shrubs and told me we could cure our thirst by eating the “cherries”—as they are also sometimes called—so we chewed a few up and proceeded to have a pit-spitting contest by aiming at a hole in a big banana leaf. Later we followed several burlap-laden mules down a cobbled road through a coffee farm, where ghostly indigenous children with massive sacks slung over their backs picked “cherries” alongside their parents.

After they are harvested the fruits must be processed, which traditionally involves spreading

By Michele Roldán-Shaw

Coffee: The Longest Journey


them out to dry in the sun. But the modern “wet” method typically employed for large scale production is a bit more complex: the flesh is mechanically removed, the beans are fermented to get rid of a thin slick membrane, then they are washed and dried. By either method the beans, still green at this point, must end up with only about 11% of their original moisture content before they can be hulled (to remove a natural layer of parchment) graded, sorted, properly stored and exported.

There’s a lot of talk these days about shade-grown coffee, the Fair Trade Movement, and all that sort of stuff. I remember being in Panama where a coffee grower proudly showed me the big tall trees—I don’t remember what kind they were—that towered over his crop, providing habitat for iconic quetzal birds and showering a rain of electric orange blossoms that enriched the soil with nitrogen. On the other hand, a Panamanian lady gave me her unique take on the Fair Trade phenomenon when she told how small producers were strapped by all these regulations about how to treat workers, house them, provide for them, throw their kids birthday parties (I gathered this last was an ironic exaggeration) which was all fine and dandy until Hurricane Katrina happened and pictures started coming out on TV of the terrible conditions under which some Americans lived—our cover was blown and she thought, “Hmph! What Fair Trade?”

Still, a big part of coffee culture is consciousness, social responsibility and deep talk. Another big part is the physical location in which all this happens. Some of the world’s first caffeinated institutions remain, including Oxford’s Queen’s Lane Coffee House, established in 1654 and still serving Turkish coffee everyday. Paris’s Cafe Procope opened in 1686 and saw the

mind-meldings of French Enlightenment, with characters like Voltaire and Rousseau hunching over hot cups. Our first American coffeehouse supposedly opened in Boston 1676; its walls heard the plotting of the Boston Tea Party, and harbored revolutionaries like John Adams and Paul Revere who most likely drank something stronger—today the Green Dragon goes ahead and calls itself what it really is: a tavern. And of course we must give a nod to Starbucks, whether loved or hated, which began in 1971 with a shop at Pike Place Market in Seattle, and now has so many franchises—21,000 in 65 countries—that it’s no longer a joke when someone says they like to sip a caramel macchiato at Starbucks while people-watching the Starbucks across the street.

And now to our own coffeehouse, the beloved Corner Perk. At its brand-new location in the Bluffton Promenade, it might very well spawn an international art movement (or maybe just a local bible study group), be a rebel hotspot (or just a wifi hotspot), and have the next great poet scribbling on its napkins (or just a local author doing a reading.) At the very least you can count on the Perk to welcome you with warmth and cheer, toasty drinks and tasty grub. Owners Josh and Kali Cooke are hometown sweethearts who love to support anything and everything local, whether by hanging art or buying farm-fresh ingredients. Moreover they are totally local themselves, providing us with fresh in-house roasted beans.

“The biggest part of roasting for me was being able to get the coffee the way we want it without having to depend on anybody else,” said Josh, who founded the Perk in 2009, and used to support small roasters in Savannah and Charleston before


he became one himself. “Freshness is so important with coffee, and a significant amount of freshness is lost when you grind it, yet 90% of coffee you get at the grocery store is pre-ground and has a lot of packaging that affects the flavor. We roast four or five days a week and have a low inventory to keep it fresh. We’re already outgrowing our 1-kilo roaster so we’ve just ordered a ten-kilo roaster, a big red beautiful Santa Claus machine that we’re going to put downstairs in the front window so people driving by can see it.”

Ian Duncan, head of roasting operations and a Corner Perk employee almost since the beginning, says that roasting has really opened him up to the science and education of coffee. He reads books about it, educates his palette, and does “cuppings” so technical that you can’t talk the entire time and have to slurp samples violently off the spoon so they take molecular form in the mouth. He knows what folks around here go for.

“People in Bluffton really don’t like coffee that’s acidic,” explains Ian. “This is more of a medium and dark roast community, which I find fascinating, but

they don’t like it burnt. It’s kinda cool when you’re sitting there drinking it and you taste all these flavors going through your mouth—like we have a Nicaraguan dark roast that tastes like candy.”

The Perk’s espresso is a custom blend of three different beans—Nicaraguan, Honduran and Costa Rican—roasted all at once so that their oils and flavors meld. Ian characterizes it as very dark, strong, heavy and smoky; smooth with a little oiliness; and a bit of bite without too much acidity at the end. They sell many other types of coffee, brewed and in bags of beans, but the strangest of all is “Devil’s Cup” (the name is still under hot internal dispute.) Its lighter even than trendy “blond” roasts, tastes nothing like coffee but has four or five times the caffeine, and according to Ian is the sweetest cup you’ll ever drink, all peanut-buttery or like hazelnuts with half-and-half. “We have some rare, organic and Fair Trades,” says Josh of his whole bean stock, “but some of them are just good ol’ Colombian drinkin’ coffees.”

On a recent day Ian, Josh and I stood around the roaster, which is propane-fueled and has a high-powered blower that spins the beans as they’re heated. We watched them billow up and whirl around inside the roaster’s glass tank, slowly changing from a grassy yellow color to caramel to rich brown. “Smells like popcorn and chocolate with a touch of hay,” I commented.

“That’s way better than burnt toast!” said Josh. “Sometimes I think it smells like a mixture of boiled peanuts and burnt sugar.”

Ian adds, “When we used to be located next to the Sugaree, we would be roasting and the baker would come out and smell it, then suddenly he’d run in thinking his chocolate chip cookies were burning.”

In any case, their product is well-loved and the operation has only grown; Corner Perk now has several wholesale accounts, including local restaurants. Josh reports, “I’ve had people come in here


and say, ‘I had dinner at Lucky Rooster—they have really good coffee!’ and I’m like, ‘Yeah I know!’” He has big plans for the future: more roasting, more locations, more wholesale accounts, and he’s already talking with a couple breweries about a Corner Perk beer (maybe a coffee porter or double espresso IPA.) He has also looked into buying an entire “lot” of beans, which means everything one small farm produces in a year.

“The cool thing about that is we have a relationship with the family,” he says, “and the farmer can actually tell us, ‘Well, we had a dry season this year,’ or whatever, and how that affects the flavor, which I think is really interesting. And you also cut out some middle men that way, so the farmer ends up making more money and we get the same or even better price.”

Gentle, kind and conscious, Josh never loses sight of the humanitarian aspect to business, whether in his dealings with consumers here in Bluffton or with producers halfway across the world. “We do some work, but the real hard workers are the farmers,” he says. “So what we’re going to do this Christmas season is for every pound of coffee that’s purchased we’ll donate $1 to Coffee Kids, a non-profit that serves coffee-producing communities in Latin America.”

There are so many reasons to support the Corner Perk, and to revel in this revered beverage called coffee, not least of which is the straight-up buzz. Try it this season with a dash of eggnog!

285 & 357 Red Cedar St. 815 2273 www.lowcountryday.com

Lowcountry Day Christian

Preschool & Camp

Jingle all the wayfilling your sleigh with love!


Pet Friendly Patiowith a Fido Special

we cater parties large and small!

the great taste of Old Bluffton!

55 Calhoun Street, 843 757 9463.

7 Days a week from 11:30am.

Loud Music Thursday thru Saturday

Come warm yourself with ...


Pasta ShoppeVillageThe

10B Johnston Way www.villagepastashoppe.com(opposite the Blu�ton Post o�ce) 843.540.2095

Tue - Fri 10am - 6pm, Sat 10am - 4pm

Delicious homemade Italian dishesready to heat and serve.

Enjoy home-made Italian dishes without paying restaurant prices. Bring us your

dish (or use ours) and we’ll �ll it up with authentic Italian favorites like Lasagne,

Chicken Parmesan, Ziti, Eggplant Parmesan and more. We also have Fresh Pasta and many hard to �nd Italian deli products.

It’s like mom or grandma made it!

O v e r 1 0 0 g r e a t w i n e s t o s a m p l e !Tapas mea l s tha t make the even ing .T u e s d a y - S a t u r d a y : 1 1 - C L O S E

843-706-9463 6 Promenade Street

Come for the wine.Stay for the food!

L i v e M u s i c Thursday night!


Restaurant GuideAMIGO’S - MEXICANBELFAIR TOWN VILLAGE815-8226MON-SAT 11-9 BLUFFTON BBQ**- BARBEQUE PORK & RIBSTHE PROMENADE 757-RIBSWED THU FRI SAT 11-Whenever

BLUFFTON FAMILY SEAFOOD HOUSE**27 DR. MELLICHAMP DR. 757-0380LUNCH/DINNER MON-SAT 11-9

THE BLUFFTON ROOM - FINE DINING15 PROMENADE STREET 757-3525TUES-THURS 5-10 FRI-SAT 5-11CLOSED SUN & MON

BRITISH OPEN PUB - PUB, SEAFOOD, STEAKSSHERIDAN PARK 705-4005MON-SUN 8-9 SUN BRUNCH 8-1

BUFFALO’S - CONTEMPORARYPALMETTO BLUFF VILLAGE 706-6630LUNCH MON-SAT 11-4

CAHILL’S CHICKEN KITCHEN**- SOUTHERNHIGHWAY 46, 757-2921LUNCH MON-SAT 11-3 SUPPER THU-FRI-SAT 5-9 SAT BREAKFAST 7-12 SUN BRUNCH 9-3

CAPTAIN WOODY’S- SEAFOOD SANDWICH SALADSTHE PROMENADE757-6222 MON-SUN 11 - 10

CLAUDE & ULI’S BISTRO- FRENCHMOSS CREEK VILLAGE837-3336MON-SAT LUNCH & DINNER

CORKS WINE CO. - CONTEMPORY, TAPASTHE PROMENADE815 5168MON 5-10 TUES -SAT 5 -MIDNIGHT

** See the ad in the Breeze for more info


CORNER PERK** - BREAKFAST, LUNCH, COFFEETHE PROMENADE & MAY RIVER ROAD 816-5674M-F 7AM-4PM SAT 8AM-3PM, SUN 9AM-2PM

DOWNTOWN DELI - BURGERS & SANDWICHESDR. MELLINCAMP 815-5005MON-SAT 8-3

FUJIYAMA - SUSHI/ASIAN CUISINE BI-LO CENTER706-9907 MON-TH 11AM-10PM, F/S 11AM-10:30PM, SUN 12-10PM

GUISEPPI’S - ITALIANKITTIES CROSSING842-8333 MON-SAT 11AM-10PM SUN 11 AM-9PM

HOGSHEAD KITCHEN - CONTEMPORARY1555 Fording Island Rd837-4647MON-SAT11:30AM – 11:00PMSUNDAY CLOSED

INN AT PALMETTO BLUFF - CONTINENTALPALMETTO BLUFF VILLAGE706-6500 DAILY 7AM -10PM KATIE O’DONALD’S - IRISH AMERICANKITTIES CROSSING815-5555MON-SUN 11AM-2PM LATITUDE WINE BAR ** - WINE & TAPAS6 PROMENADE706-9463 WEDS-SAT 11AM - TO CLOSENOW OPEN FOR LUNCH

MAY RIVER GRILL**- SEAFOOD CONTEMPORARY1263 MAY RIVER RD., OLD TOWN757-5755MON-SAT 5-9 DINNER TUE-FRI 11:30-2 LUNCH

MI TIERRA - MEXICAN 27 DR. MELLINCHAMP 757-7200MON-THU 11-9 FRI-SAT 11-10 MULBERRY STREET TRATTORIA - ITALIAN 1476 FORDING ISLAND ROAD HWY 837-2426TUE-SAT 11-3 & 5-10 SUN 10:30-9

NEO - GASTROPUB1533 Fording Island Road837-5111MON-SAT11:30AM – 11:00PMSUNDAY CLOSED

OKATIE ALE HOUSE, AMERICAN SUN CITY706-2537LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK

OLD TOWN DISPENSARY - CONTEMPORARY CALHOUN STREET837-1893MON-SAT 11AM-2AM SUNDAY BRUNCH

PEACEFUL HENRY’S CIGAR & WINE BAR161 BLUFFTON ROAD757-0557

POUR RICHARD’S**- CONTEMPORARY BLUFFTON PARKWAY757-1999MON-SAT 5:30 - 10

R&D WINE BOUTIQUE - WINE & FOOD1011 FORDING ISLAND DRIVE BEST BUY PLAZA837-3747THURS TO SAT, 11:30AM TO 9PM

REDFISH32 BRUIN ROAD OLD TOWN837-8888

SIGLER’S ROTISSERIE & SEAFOOD CONTEMPORARY 12 Sheraton Park Circle815-5030 MON-SAT 4:30-9:30

SIPPIN COW CAFÉ** - BREAKFAST LUNCH1230 MAY RIVER ROAD757-5051TUES – SAT 7AM – 3PM, SUN 9AM – 2PM

SQUAT N’ GOBBLE**THE COTTAGE - BREAKFAST & LUNCHCALHOUN STREET757.0508BR. 8-11AM, LUNCH 11:30 - 3PM, SUN 8-2PM

THE VILLAGE PASTA SHOPPE**, ITALIAN DELI 10 B JOHNSTON WAY (across from Post Office),540-2095TUES-FRI 10AM-6PM, SAT 10AM-4PM

TRUFFLE’S, CONTEMPORARYBELFAIR VILLAGE815-5551DAILY 11AM-10PM LUNCH & DINNER

VINEYARD 55** - PIZZA AMERICAN55 CALHOUN STREET757-9463MON-TUES 4-CLOSE WED-SAT 11-CLOSE


I have delayed writing about the pinot noir because I’m conflicted. The best wine that I have ever tasted was a Burgundy in Burgundy, and I have yet to replicate that experience. This saga begins in the early nineties when we were living in Geneva, Switzerland. A Swiss friend introduced me to a “negociant” in Beaune, who in turn, taught me everything I know about Burgundy. The problem is the more I learned, the more confused and frustrated I got because I never really got a handle on how to choose a good Burgundy. There were just so many moving parts to the making of a great wine in that region, that I threw in the towel (sort of). The final insult was when I drank, on site, two wines from two vineyards in Savigny-les-Beaune. These plots were literally side-by-side and had the same southeast exposure. The “negociant” popped the corks, and proceeded to explain why they were different. He wasn’t kidding. These two wines, grown a few feet from each other, were dramatically different, and he attributed this to a kaleidoscope of Zen-like factors, including how certain vines, (out of thousands) and those immediately around them, had a predisposition (same word in French) for producing better fruit. With my head spinning, I had to make a choice:

Either move to Beaune to figure this out, or leave with a handful of conclusions. From Bluffton, SC. I can happily say that: The pinot noir, with its thin skin and susceptibility to disease, mould and rot, is very difficult to grow; the weather in Burgundy can truly make or break a vintage and the soil (the terroir) really matters. However, my most important takeaway was that henceforth, I would always use an expert to choose my Burgundies. A few months later my Swiss friend shared a bottle of a 1989 Cros Parantoux Premier Cru Vosne-Romanee, which to this day, is the finest wine I have ever tasted. I struggle to explain why, but here is my best attempt:

The high wire act that is pinot noir

By Michael Mavrogordato


A good pinot noir is like a high-wire act. When you first smell it your senses tell you that you are about to taste something extraordinary because the nose of a good pinot is a floral and earthy explosion, which is further amplified by the unique shape of the Burgundy wine glass. But to balance this unique olfactory high, a good pinot must also tame what is an inherently acid (yet low tannin) grape, into something, which has amazing clarity, light color, depth, complexity, silkiness, and finish. Very few pinots, however, can walk this tightrope because it is such a delicate wine that any flaw will render it ordinary. By ordinary, I mean a wonderful wine on the nose, but which can be harsh on the palate because of a stubborn acidity. In my opinion, this has happened way too often when I have tried a Burgundy in the US, and it may be that these wines don’t travel well, but regardless, I have shied away from them. This is the bad news, but the good news is that California and Oregon make a different but nonetheless, great pinot noir.

The pinot noir is a cool weather grape, and perfectly suited for the moderate coastal climate of the West Coast. Starting in Monterey, pockets of great vineyards dot the Central Coast, Sonoma, and end more inland in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. To most people many of these wines taste similar, because they all display the characteristics of the New World pinot: Potent, fruit forward (cherries, strawberries, raspberries), sweet, and darker than their French cousin. Is this the new American pinot noir? The answer is an emphatic no because over the years, two cooler regions have broken away from the pack, and now produce superlative wines. Sonoma County (close the coast) and the Willamette Valley produce restrained, earthy, clear, and silky wines which really define the American version of the varietal. Here are two wines to look for (and available in Bluffton) -- both are pricey, but well worth it: Littorai (The Haven) and Adelsheim (Elizabeth’s Reserve). I mention these superb wines

because they set a standard which unfortunately is being corroded by the marketing barrage from producers who make something very different and have the gall to call it pinot noir. To illustrate this, I went to the Super Kroger on the island, and sought out the most promoted pinot noirs.

Sure enough I found two: Mac Murray (Central Coast 2012) and Meiomi (a tri-appellation blend). Both wines were flagged by rating tags and discounts designed to catch your eye and were priced identically at $18. As your wine advisor I have always believed it is my responsibility to educate first, and then let your taste control your own destiny, but when an impostor begins to pollute it, I must put my foot down. These wines, and there are many more, are an affront to the great pinot noir. These blends have been reverse-engineered to be sweet, jammy, super dark and are nothing more than smoothies masquerading as pinot noir!

Now that my blood pressure is back under control, there were two pinots (also $18) on the shelves of the Super Kroger which I can heartily recommend: Erath 2012 Oregon and Joel Gott 2012 Monterey/Sonoma. Both have subtle fruit and acidity which allows for effortless drinking (a signature characteristic of a good pinot), and can be matched with just about anything, particularly lamb.

Finally, if you want to splurge for the holidays, I found three other wines in the “special” area of the Super Kroger, which that are worth every penny:

Caymus 2012 40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon: an all-American take- no -prisoner cab.

Ceretto Barbaresco (2010) : a powerful Nebbiolo, perfect for any steak dinner.

Clos de l’Oratoire Chateuneuf du Pape White (2012): A region normally known for their reds, this white is sensational. Perfect for chicken, salmon, and Oriental food.

Breeze Wine Within Reach


Volunteering is in their blood, and Mary and Steve Miller continue their mission to serve the community here in Bluffton.

Steve grew up in Tarboro, NC. Mary grew up in Shelby, NC. They met as students at Appalachian State University. Steve was an accounting major and Mary was a Special Education major and in student government. Marrying after graduation, they have been together 34 years.

Taking a cue from parents that made a habit of giving back to the community and giving others a hand up, Mary and Steve, have been involved in myriad volunteer activities, in North Carolina and now in the lowcountry of South Carolina. This is all while Steve worked hard to grow his career, becoming a partner in his accounting firm, and raising two children: daughter MaryAnne, married and teaching in the Charleston area and son Manning, in his second year at University of Georgia Law School.

One of the first things Steve looked for after settling in Bluffton was a Rotary Club. Soon he was actively involved in leadership at the Rotary Club of Bluffton and is now serving as the current President. “My favorite project with the Bluffton Rotary Club is our annual Oyster Roast…it’s a great place to see friends and acquaintances, work hard, eat oysters or brats, and then hang by the huge bonfire”.

“At first, Rotary was all about business contacts to me, then after I was a member, I realized it was so much more than just networking. Today, it’s the personal relationships with other members and Rotarians and other Rotary Clubs; all working together to give back to communities and the world,” says Steve.

Their son Manning was still at home the year the Miller unexpectedly accepted an exchange student into their home, at the end of 2006. Originally Rotary International exchange student Nils Neubauer was scheduled to spend his second semester as a junior at Bluffton High School with another family, but when best laid plans fell through, Mary and Steve stepped up make Nils a part of their family. Manning and Nils became “best buds”, both playing on the BHS tennis team and often competing against each other in matches. “They were like twin sons from different continents – a perfect fit. When Nils left to go back to Germany, he left a void”, says Mary. Nils has been back for a visit with his Bluffton family and he and Manning stay in touch through Facebook and Skype. Mary tells the story of Nils being fascinated when Steve brought work home from the office and used his 10-key calculator; Nils would sit entranced, watching Steve and vowing to learn how to use a 10-key. “Today, Nils is in the banking business and probably has his own 10-key,” Mary amusingly remarked.

Working beside Steve for the Bluffton Rotary Club, Mary helped organize Charter Night this past June, has adopted families for the annual Christmas Angel project and “cleaned up, set-up…whenever they need help…lugged stuff up and down docks after a sandbar party…whatever needed to be done…chipping in wherever needed…I tend to do that with anything”, Mary says.

Mary has been part of the Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival committee for the past several years, handling communications. She has volunteered for the Bluffton Today Tennis Tournament, the Public Tennis Booster Club at Bluffton High School, and has been involved in the School Improvement Council. In May, Mary worked with other members from the Tennis Club of the Lowcountry to partner with the local fire department for a MDA fund-raiser, a very successful

A COMMITMENTTO SERVE OTHERS By Dot Jeger


event that she hopes to do annually. The groups raised over $6000, money used to send Beaufort County MDA affected children to camp in Atlanta this summer.

Why volunteer? For Mary, there is always an organization that needs your time and I have the luxury of time to give. Starting from field trips (when the children were in school)…volunteering is a wonderful way to learn about your community and meet and make friends. Mary’s best advice when she knows someone is moving? Get involved, find somewhere to volunteer and get to know your new community. You can’t just look at something and complain; you can work to make a difference.”

Of volunteering, Steve notes, “I am continually impressed with people who give freely of their time and talents.” For Steve, volunteering means “giving back…we are fortunate to have a good life…and so we believe

Breeze Community

[email protected] 12 Johnston Way #A&B 843 837 9663

[email protected]

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in giving back to those less fortunate. Mary is usually right there with me working.”

Not only do they work together, volunteering their time and helping others, but Mary and Mike play tennis together on a couples’ tennis league. Steve, competitive in nature, does not like to lose in business, on the courts.

Steve is also a runner and has completed 4 marathons – the Washington DC Marine Corp Marathon twice, in 2002 and 2003, the Grandfather Mountain Marathon in 2004 and the inaugural Rock N Roll Marathon in Savanah in 2011. His office wall is covered with commemorative “stuff” from his races. While Steve is not running marathons today, he is running 5K, 10K and half marathons. His running habit began when he was at Appalachian State and has continued with his son, Manning, who caught the running bug after moving to Bluffton. Father and son began with turkey trots and 4th of July races; Manning went onto the College of Charleston on a full cross-country running scholarship. Manning still runs today, just like his father.

Working side by side, whether cooking hotdogs, cleaning oysters on a cold late January morning or scooping poop behind the horses during the famous and eclectic Bluffton Christmas Parade… Mary and Steve give freely of their time and talents. They are an exemplary couple who have settled here with a commitment to serve others.

A COMMITMENTTO SERVE OTHERS By Dot Jeger


“Son” I said with stern but inquisitive tone “what are you doing? We have to get dressed for church!” I saw half of my boy, his legs mainly. He was standing in the fireplace. I bent down to see his upper half; there was a headlamp attached to his forehead. He was intently staring up the chimney. “Son” I said again, with a little more tone and less inquisitiveness. I could tell he heard me when he legs twitched, my stern voice startling him. He was speaking but I could not tell what he said as his voice carried up the tall chimney and into the crisp evening air. “Get out of there” I demanded. He squatted down, face sooty and said to me scoldingly “I was just checking things out, dad.” I looked at him crossly “don’t sass me young man, you’ve still got a few hours left to get on that naughty list.”

He climbed down, intently eying what I carried in my arms. “What are those logs for” he said nervously. I dropped four large logs onto the fireplace grate. With each clunk of the log my son flinched, making a sour face. “Yessss” I hissed “do you have an issue with building a fire tonight?” He

crossed his arms and frowned “I most certainly do.” Admittedly, I was a bit frustrated. I had worked until late in the afternoon and because of it was now running behind in helping get things ready for Christmas Eve church and the family dinner afterwards. “What’s the big deal” I shot back sarcastically as I balled up day old newspaper. His little voice squeaked, “the big deal?” he raised his arms in protest “what’s the big deal you ask?” His eyes were wide with disbelief as he spoke “how is Santa supposed to come down the chimney if you have a big fire burning?” I stopped balling up newspaper and looked at him squarely as he continued to speak. “How are we supposed to feed Santa cookies and get presents, and eat monkey bread and drink egg nog and celebrate Jesus’ birth if you don’t let any Christmas cheer get in the house?” He was on a roll. “Santa doesn’t come through doors you know and he doesn’t like fire. Christmas comes in through the chimney.” A lack of time and a lack of patience precluded me from fully appreciating how cute the exchange was.” I put my hand firmly on his shoulder “we’ll work it out after church.”

A Christmas FireBy Gene Cashman III


My son is smart and forgets very little. A soon as the church service was over and we were in the car he brought it back up. “Mom” he said from the third row “did you know that dad intends to build a fire tonight?” My wife cheerily responded “yes won’t it make for a cozy dinner?” You could hear my son shifting about in his car seat “well, yes but how are we going to have Christmas if dad won’t let it come down the chimney?” This got the attention of my eldest daughter. “Dad” she said “what is he talking about?” I gripped the wheel a little tighter “your brother believes that if we have a fire tonight that Santa won’t be able to get down the chimney.” For a moment the car was silent as the words sunk in and then, in an instant, things exploded in the back seat. My wife looking confused at the hubbub spoke up in a soft, motherly tone “children” she whispered. The protesting continued even louder. “Children” she said in a slightly louder voice. The gnashing of teeth seemed to increase and even our youngest had begun to chatter loudly “no, no no!” The noise was too much so I decided to intervene and drop the hammer, “CHILDREN!” Everyone stopped talking. My wife even turned the radio off. “Now listen here” I said “Christmas cannot be stopped by a fire in the fireplace and furthermore Christmas is not about Santa or receiving presents, but don’t make me call Santa and call the whole thing off!” It was the kind of frustrated nonsense a parent will spew when they have hit a certain limit and for a moment there was silence, a seeming nod of understanding and appreciation to the course correction I had offered up. Then my son broke the peace “so, we’re not having a fire?” The car erupted in laughter; except for me, of course. I gripped the wheel and stared ahead.

As the car rolled to a stop in the garage and the kids piled out, my wife leaned over the center consoled and grabbed me by the arm. “Honey, it’s Christmas” she said giving me a kiss on the forehead “we’ve just attended a wonderful service, family is coming over for dinner.” However, before she could finish I interrupted her “I am fine, it’s fine.” She sat back in her seat and gave me a look I have seen hundreds of times. It’s the look a wife gives when she really doesn’t need to say a word. A wise man acknowledges it and takes heed. A foolish man tries to control the situation. The foolish man nearly always fails. “Okay” I wisely relented “I am being short because I had to work late today and even though it was Christmas Eve there were a million problems at the office and it all stressed me out.” She listened intently but said nothing. I took the silence as the cue to keep talking. “I let myself get bent out of shape because all I wanted to do was to be home with you and the kids but I was

stuck dealing with other people’s issues.

The later in the day it got the more agitated I became.” I felt better for speaking my frustration out loud and went on about how my day and the days preceding it had affected me. It was a pretty selfish rant. After I had stopped blaming my attitude on everyone and everything but me my wife softly offered up some advice. “I am sorry things were hard for you, but you are home now. Those problems are elsewhere. You have what you want right in front of you. Don’t waste it. We need you to be present with us. We want your joy tonight, not the world’s burdens. Come in when you are ready to be here with us now.” The words floored me. I wanted to protest, but I was suddenly aware of my self-centeredness. She shut the car door and I was alone in the cold garage with my thoughts.

When I opened the back door and stepped into the house my son immediately ran up to me. “Daddy, daddy” he said joyfully “I have an idea!” As I was in a better mood after my wife’s advice and my quite time in the garage I bent down to his eye level to take care of some business. “Son” I said putting my hand through his hair “I am sorry I was mean earlier.” He looked at me with his big brown eyes and spoke before I could offer any more apology “it’s okay daddy I forgive you.” I stood up, appreciating the grace that comes from children “so, what’s this idea of yours?” He ran into the den and towards the fire place. There assembled on the hearth was every candle we owned. My wife sat on the couch and gave me a wink. “So daddy” he said “I was thinking that instead of a log fire we could just light candles.” He waved his hand toward the candles like a game show host would as he presented the idea. “You see, when dinner is over we can just blow them out. That way Santa and all of the Christmas joy can safely come down the


By Maestro John Morris Russel

chimney tonight, okay?” I nodded my approval. He concluded “you and mommy can have a cozy fire in the morning, after Santa and Jesus and everyone has had their chance to come inside.” It was an adorable moment I would have missed had I still been focused on myself. “Great idea, young man” he beamed at the approval, completely satisfied he had saved Christmas. My wife stood up and kissed my cheek as she walked back to the kitchen “glad you could make it sir” she said with a smile.

That evening my family gathered and broke bread with laughter and fond remembrances from the past all seated around a table lit by flickering candlelight from our fireplace. It was warm and comforting. After dessert I clinked my glass and stood up for a toast “this has been a wonderful night and a wonderful gathering of family.” Everyone around the table snapped their fingers with approval. “Now” my voice turning serious “we have come to an important part of the evening” turning towards all the young cousins and giving all the parents a smile I bellowed “all year long the elves have been fast at work. They only have a little while to make their deliveries. To bed with you all!” Chairs flew from the table as my kids scrambled up the stairs and my sister’s children scampered for their coats. When the last goodbyes were spoken and the last sip of water had been given to the youngest of children I sat down next to my wife on the couch. We sat in the soft glow emanating from the fireplace and the Christmas tree. “Thanks for setting me straight” I said “ I needed the accountability.” She pat my leg and put her head on my shoulder. “Merry Christmas” she said sleepily. Just as I was about to drift off to sleep myself I heard a persistent “pssst, hey daddy wake up” coming from the base of the steps. It was my son. “Yes son?” I said groggily. He tiptoed around the couch and put his nose to my nose. He stared at me until I was fully awake, “don’t forget to blow out those candles, Christmas depends on it!”

Discover the local marsh habitat.See the richness of life in our tidal estuary.

Learn measures for water quality.

Voyage of discovery

All trips led by Captain Amber Kuehn MS in Marine Biology

Contact: [email protected] or Spartinacharters.com 843-338-2716

A great learning trip for kids & adults!


AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPALCambell Chapel A.M.E.

25 Boundary Street, 757-3652Sunday School 8:45am

Worship:10am

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

New River Worship CenterHwy 170 & Argent Blvd. (next to ESPY)

379-1815 Sunday: 10:30am Wednesday 7pm

BAPTISTFirst Baptist Church of Bluffton

Boundary at Church Street, 757-3472Sunday School: 9am

Worship: 10:30am & 6pm

First Zion BaptistWharf Street 757-3128

Sunday School: 9amSunday worship: 10am

May River Baptist ChurchSC-170, North of US 46, 757-2518

Sunday School: 9:45amSunday Worship: 10am & 7pm

St. John’s Baptist Church103 Pritchard Street, 757-4350

Sunday Worship: 11am

St. Matthew’s Baptist ChurchSC Highway 170, 757-3255

Sunday Worship: 11am

Indian Hill Baptist ChurchHwy 278 next to Eagle’s Point, 757-2603

Sunday School: 9:45amSunday Worship: 11am

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSESKingdom Hall, SC 46, 815-4455

Sunday Public Talk: 9:30am & 3:30pmSpanish Public Talk: 12:30pm

Bible Missionary Baptist ChurchGoethe Road Community Cntr, 815-5523

Sunday Worship: 11amBible Study: 6pm

CATHOLICSt. Gregory the Great Catholic Church

333 Fording Island Road, 815-3100Sat. 4pm, 6pm Sun. 7:15am, 9am, 11am, 5pm,

Espagnol 1pm Mon-Fri 6:45am Chapel, 8:30am Church

ANGLICANThe Church of the Cross110 Calhoun St, 757-2661

495 Buckwalter Parkway, 757-2662Sunday Worship: 8am & 10am

EPISCOPAL

The Episcopal Church of OkatieAt St. Luke’s Baptist ChurchHwy 170 and Snake Road,

Worship: 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday, 8:30am

GREEK ORTHODOXHoly Resurrection Church

at St. Andrews Catholic Church 220 Pickney Colony Road, 837-4659

Orthros: 9:30am, Liturgy 10am

JEWISHTemple Osah Shalom

at Lowcountry Presbyterian278 Simmonsville Road, 705-2532

Shabbat Worship 3rd Friday of month, 8pm

LUTHERANLord of Life Lutheran Church

351 Buckwalter Parkway, 757-4774Sunday School: 10am

Sunday Worship: 8am, 9am, 11am

METHODISTBluffton United Methodist Church

101 Calhoun Street, 757-3351Sunday School 9:45am

Sunday Worship: 8:45am & 11am

Church of the Palms United Methodist1425 Okatie Highway, 379-1888

Sunday Worship: 10:30am

St. Luke’s United Methodist ChurchSC Highway 170 near Sun CIty, 705-3022

Sunday Worship: 8:30am and 10am

St. Andrew By-The-Sea UMCBluffton Campus

One University Blvd. (USCB’s HHI Gateway Campus, Hargray Building) 843-785-4711

Sunday worship: 10:30 a.m.

PRESBYTERIANLowcountry Presbyterian Church

US 278 and Simmonsville Road, 815-6570Sunday School: Adult 9:40am, Child 10:30

Sunday Worship: 8:30am & 10:30am

Grace Coastal Church (PCA)1425 Okatie 15 Williams Drive (off SC170),

379-5521Sunday School: 11am

Sunday Worship: 9:30am

NON-DENOMINATIONALLive Oak Christian Church

Bluffton High School Auditorium 757-5670Kidstreet: 9:15am, Worship 10:15am

Lowcountry Community ChurchBluffton Campus: 801 Buckwalter Parkway

836-1101Sunday Worship: 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am

Breeze Fellowship


IT’S SOON TO BE CHRISTMAS(With apologies to Major Henry Livingston Jr.)

It’s soon to be Christmas and all ‘round the isleThe golfers among us continue to smile.

From Bluffton to Beaufort, Rose Hill and DaufuskieThey’re swing new sticks from first light ‘till it’s dusky.

At Berkeley, at Belfair, at Colleton RiverThey delight in the hard goods that Santa delivered.

Down at Sun City, and Chechessee Creek,A new hybrid so pretty, and golf shoes tres chic.

Hampton Hall, Oldfield and then Islands WestHilton Head Lakes and good old Pine Crest

With putters unsullied and drivers pristineTheir first rounds await them on courses of green.

Titanium power, composites so hard That distance increases by dozens of yards.

And wedges so knife-edged, so shiny and gleaming, Miss a green with these babies and you’ll soon be steaming.

The putters exacting, impart a true roll.The stroke may be shaky, but the ball finds the hole.

And swag that’s abounding—from rain gear to wind shirtsTo golf spikes and checked pants and even some golf skirts.

A new bag, a new ‘brella, perhaps even a buggy!The weather is cool but soon enough, will be muggy.

And a dizzying selection of training devices!Contraptions, inventions, some that are twice as

Likely to ruin what’s left of your swing, But they come nicely packaged,

And that’s the main thing.So pull on that silky new glove of Cabretta,

‘Cause the blinding white leather will make you feel betta.Unsheathe that new “whipping stick,”

to cure your shortness disease.Now your drives will go farther offline through the trees.

Two dozen new balls bring you holiday cheer.But in a couple round’s time they’ll all disappear.

You know how to define a golf paradise?A golf ball that comes with a homing device.

So take to the fairways in those fancy new clothes,Poised and refined like those PGA pros.

But no matter the golf duds, how sharp you are dressing,The best gift of all is a couple of lessons.Gadgets and gizmos, equipment is fine.

But the gift of instruction stands up over time.So the last bit of business I think you should know

Is to seek out a qualified PGA pro.And though at this moment you’re full of holiday cheer,

And dying to break in your new-fangled gear,Remember improving your game makes for a Happy New Year!

Breeze Golf


John McMahon: The Golf Insider

Making your dream golf home possible.

“As a former golf pro I’ve played every course in Bluffton and Hilton Head. As a realtor I’ve helped many people buy their dream house in the right community”

Please call me at 843.298.1480 email [email protected] Visit our website at HiltonHeadHomes.com

Understand the pros and cons of each community. Get to know the attitudes and activities of community residents. Compare the hidden values in annual fees. The right knowledge makes it easy to find the right community and the right home!


LUNCH Mon to Sat, 11am - 3pmSUPPER Thurs, Fri, Sat, 5 - 9pm BRUNCH Sunday 9am - 3pmSATURDAY BREAKFAST 7am - 12pm

1055 May River Road, Bluffton1 mile west of Old Town Bluffton843 757-2921www.cahillsmarket.com

Our Christmas trees come all the way from snowy North Carolina.

So bring the perfect tree home!

Come for a Good Luck Buffet 11-5pm on New Year’s Day!

All you can eat!(that’s why I never leave!!)

Bluffton breeze december 2014

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