Talk about Fiscal Responsibility-----Hilton Head Plantation deserves accolades  for holiding expenses at bay in this difficult environment.  Long recognized as one of the best places to live on the island, the board truly does take the best interests of the residents to heart. After a 4 month process, the HHP Board finalized the 2009 budget with the final outcome of a $.92 increase per month over 2008.  That's an increase of $11 for the year.  You can't tell me that didn't take some serious pencil sharpening!  Translated this means residents will pay $932 for an improved lot and $559 for  a vacant lot.  This represents  one of the least expensive POA fees on the entire island. To sum it up:  Hilton Head Plantation is in good financial health and represents exceptional value to resident... 10/17/2008

Hilton Head Plantation now has a  Dance Club---I think this is something new and probably a great recreational outlet.  Did you know they say you can burn up to  300 calories an hour just by dancing and what could be better than doing something you truly enjoy! Not only do you burn calories, you build cardiac enduance, boost brainpower and improve memory skills with dancing.  Probably, we'd all sleep a lot better if we tried this every day (at least just a bit.)  Oh, one more thing---people that endulge in dancing are far less likely to suffer from dementia.  So the benefits are great.  The Hilton Head Plantation Dance Club meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 6:15 to 7:30 PM at the Plantation House.  No reservations are needed.  Come learn the Waltz, Swing, Rhumba, Cha-Ch... 10/16/2008

So you're probably wondering what these people are doing milling around this tiny building?  Well, think again because this is the front of The Bargain Box, probably Hilton Head's most famous thrift shop.  With profits entirely donated to charities and with an all volunteer workforce, it is amazing how much money is raised to benefit different island groups each year. Shoppers arrive very early in the day on Mondays/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday and Saturday just to get a number to enter.  They only give out 99 numbers as that is all the building will hold but what awesome deals await those who have patience.    From designer clothing to home decor , jewelry, handbags, shoes and electronics------this is literally a treasure trove for everyone who visits.  When you visit you'll meet a lot of... 10/16/2008

I am so impressed to see the Zonta Club of Hilton Head sponsor a 3 night seminar to assist women looking for a career change.  And with the current economy, I bet there are a lot of local women who are soul searching their careers.  Termed the Lowcountry Employment Achievement Program, this event will take place on October 14, 21 and 28th at the Boys and Girls Club located at Gumtree Road on the island.  TOPICS TO BE EXPLORED:  CAREER EXPLORATION INTERVIEW SKILLS RESUME WRITING CREDIT MANAGEMENT Additionally, dinner and child care will be provided.  I say this is a WORTHY COMMUNITY ENDEAVOR, TO SAY THE LEAST! Please visit the Zonta website for more details FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I welcome your inquiries, referrals and q... 10/14/2008

I think I've lived here long enough to be considered a local so when I say the new Hilton Head  Comedy Club is a first for our area, I sure do hope I'm accurate on the facts.  With all of the horrible problems in our country, you might find it refreshing to take in a performance at the new club located in Pineland Station at the north end of Hilton Head Island.  Plus, these are national touring comedians that will perform here.....they've appeared on Comedy Central and other venues. SHOW TIMES ARE TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS @ 8:00 PM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY AT 8:00 AND 10:00 PM And let's not forget the ladies--Special  1/2 off pricing is available on Tuesday nights. AND WHO KNOWS?  MAYBE WE'LL SEE JERRY SEINFELD THERE ONE NIGHT.  FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 681-7757 10/14/2008

Please take notice of this upcoming event!  The first "WIGGIN OUT FOR CANCER" will be held November 1 at Rider's Hilton Head.  This event is an inaugural party for the purpose of raising funds for Cancer patients and formed in memory of  Tim Doughtie, a long time resident of Hilton Head who passed away.  The  "Silicone Sisters" band will be on hand to provide entertainment.  Donations and sponsorships from the community will be appreciated and it should be a no brainer for anyone who has been touched by the evil world of cancer.  It is heart warming to see events like this organized in the community. For details please call  843-684-3500 or 843-384-5034.  FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD OR BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE. 10/14/2008

If I decide to take on a new hobby this year, I think the Camera Club of Hilton Head Island will be my choice............Of course, I DID say "IF" because with another new grand baby arriving in our family, I'm just not sure how much leisure time I'll have on my hands.  But this club intrigues me.  The members have contributed much to make this local club a huge success. This month, the Camera Club will have two competitions.......one will be a novice member competition on Tuesday at the Sea Pines Community Center.  The Intermediate advanced and expert competitions will be on October 21 atg Palmetto Electric at Matthews Drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I welcome your questions, inquiries and referrals anytime.  10/13/2008

The Island Packet Newspaper reported today (Sunday, October 12, 2008) that wind turbines may be in our future.  According to the Packet,  perhaps in 5 years, 210 ft tall wind turbines may be erected 3 miles from shore that would create an 80 megawatt wind farm.  What is of interest is that 1 megawatt is capable of providing electricity to between 250 -300 homes a day.  The pilot project would equip between 20,000 to 24,000 homes.  Seems pretty significant to me and perhaps we're on the right track? The South Carolina Energy Office was recently awarded a $500,000 grant from the Department of Energy to study the efficacy of errecting wind farms. Charleston and communities north would benefit most as wind energy is just not that efficient in the Hilton Head area.......could that be why we... 10/12/2008

SO YOU'RE PROBABLY WONDERING WHAT A CULINARY CUT UP CLUB IS AND PROBABLY THINK IT'S SOMETHING ABOUT FOOD--------Well, that's just about correct!  The Culinary Cut-Ups Club was organized for the pleasure of Hilton Head Plantation and features four to six programs during the year that include demonstrations from well-known Hilton Head restaurants or perhaps a  tasting luncheon, kitchen tour, wine tasting or similar function.  Each year, different activities are planned to provide a variety of experiences. The last event of the year is a progressive dinner with spouses included. FOR MORE INFO---CONTACT  HEIDI HUDDLESTON @ 342-9253 OR CHARLENE RABB @ 682-3722 IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE. 10/11/2008

It's time to take a look at Condo/Villa Sales Activity for Hilton Head Island.  Although we all can agree that 2008 has been an off-year for real estate activity, it is interesting to note that sales are STILL taking place for properties that are realistically priced.  If you are considering a sale of your Condo/Villa located on Hilton Head Island, it's crucial that you are armed with accurate facts so you can validate your asking price.  Buyers are educated to discern which property offers the maximum value. THE NUMBER OF ON ISLAND ACTIVELY LISTED CONDOS IS 1180 34 CONDOMINIUMS ARE UNDER CONTRACT IN THE PAST 30 DAYS THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF CONDOS SOLD PER MONTH FOR 2008 IS 43 MEDIAN SALES PRICE IS $314,000 AVERAGE ON ISLAND CONDO SALES PRICE IS $395,330 YEAR TO DATE THERE HAVE BEEN 193 H... 10/10/2008

A few September facts at a glance (as of 09/30/08): Hilton Head Island   In regards to HOME sales:   On island inventory of homes is steady at 1076 38 homes under contract in the past 30 days Average # of homes sold per months for 2008 is 60 Average on island homes sales price is $1,011,399 Median sales price is $693,000. Year to date there have been 271 homes to sell with prices below $665,000. The percent of list price over sales price is 91.88%    In regards to CONDO/VILLA  sales:   The number of on island actively listed condos is 1180 34 condominiums under contract in the past 30 days Average # condos sold per months for 2008 is 43 Average on island condo sales price is $395,330 Median sales price is $314,000. Year to date there have been 193 homes to sell with prices below $316,25... 10/10/2008

I HOPE YOU PLAN ON ATTENDING THE ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW HELD BY THE HILTON HEAD PLANTATION CRAFT GROUP----  This year's show will be held this Saturday (tomorrow) at the Christ Lutheran Churct @ 829 William Hilton Parkway.  I attended last year and was literally blown away by the talent and creativity of the products offered.  If you go, you'll find unusual Christmas offerings, children and baby gifts, lots of seasonal items , jewelry and usually they offer a hand-crafted dollhouse for sale too.  Don't miss the baked goods--they're scrumptious.  For more information, call 843-342-6015. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE,  PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I INVITE YOUR QUESTIONS, INQUIRIES AND REFERRALS ANYTIME. 10/10/2008

WHY NOT CONSIDER ATTENDING AN LLHHI CLASS THIS FALL?  The Lifelong Learning of Hilton Head has some fabulous offerings scheduled  for inquiring minds!  How about a class that encompasses Fall and Winter Gardening?  That one takes place Wednesday afternoon, October 29th.  Then on November 7, you can take the "Enlightened Golf" class---a dynamic and informative seminar to learn techniques to increase the enjoyment of golf......(I think I need this class, seriously!)  Another interesting class they are holding is "Life, Your Next Chapter."  This class will give participants a fresh perspective, focus and discover new resources for our lives.  In total, the insitute will conduct 22 different classes this fall.  For more information, call 843-842-8250 or visit the website.  These classes are... 10/07/2008

 It's time for another monthly update regarding the Hilton Head Island Real Estate Market! With the turmoil of the financial markets affecting our entire country and the news seeming to worsen every day, I was pleased to see the September  Real Estate Market Report.  I always refer to our island as the "little engine that could."  It appears that we'll keep chugging along providing that homes are priced at the correct market price.  This is the key issue that  affects the marketability of homes.  Buyers are well-informed these days and can certainly discern VALUE when shopping for a home.  Below are the most recent statistics for your perusal: ON ISLAND INVENTORY OF HOMES IS STEADY AT 1076 IN THE PAST 30 DAYS, 38 HOMES WENT UNDER CONTRACT AVERAGE NUMBER OF HOMES SOLD PER MONTHS FOR 2008... 10/07/2008

Main Street Village is an eclectic shopping experience for residents of Hilton Head Plantation.  Nestled near the entrance to the Plantation, the Village offers something for everyone including several restaurants, a Harris Teeter grocery store, Burke's Drug Store, Franke Bones Restaurant and many interesting and varied little shops.  For residents of Hilton Head Plantation, the Village offers just about every amenity needed to qualify for a successful shopping experience within 5 minutes of leaving home.  I've always enjoyed shopping here because everything is so convenient and well located.  Here are some photos that I thought you might enjoy seeing, particularly if you are interested in living in Hilton Head Plantation.  Indigo Run residents also find it convenient to shop here since... 10/06/2008

It was a perfect evening at Dolphin Head, the exquisitely beautiful area that is  set apart in Hilton Head Plantation for the recreational use of residents.  This evening as I was biking to Dolphin Head, I observed residents enjoying the end of day and that special time just before sunset.  Dolphin Head offers a children's playground, paths to the beach walking areas, walkways along the bluff and a meeting room for activities.  It's a special  place to bring your pets and a good book----chill out a bit and watch the sights of Port Royal Sound.  Here are a few photos I took while I was out  this evening.  Enjoy....savor those special quiet moments just before sunset.............. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I INVITE YOUR INQU... 10/05/2008

The Hilton Head Chamber of Commerce recently held the "STATE OF THE REGION" meeting and two ideas came through loud and clear.........OUR TOWN MUST RELY ON OUR OWN INITIATIVES TO MAKE SURE WE'RE COMPETITIVE AND WE MUST DO ALL WE CAN TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL RESOURCES. Below are some key points that emerged from this well-attended meeting of town  and county officials, business folks and interested residents: The county will issue 2000 fewer certificates of occupancy this year. Foreclosures are up over last year's totals Delinquent real esate taxes are up over last year Town officials recommend that local residents buy local goods and patronize local businesses. A "Buy Local" campaign will be insituted. Town officials will scrutinize which projects will be viable this year. Make certain t... 10/05/2008

Mark your calendars and bring the kids for an evening of fun at the Main Street Youth  Theatre located at 3000 Main Street at the north end of the island near Hilton Head Plantation.  Since its inception, the Main Street Theatre has offered up some of the best children's entertainment on the island. SEUSSICAL, THE MUSICAL, will play from October 3 through November 9 with performances Friday and Saturday @ 7 PM and Sun @ 2PM. For more information, call 689-MAIN or contact www.msyt.org.  Tickets are $20 and $10 for students.  The show plays on the Dr. Seuss collection of books with an emphasis on "Horton Hears a Who."  I'm really looking forward to taking my grandchildren to see the area children who make this theatre so successful.  Hope you'll  consider doing the same!  FOR ALL OF YOUR... 10/04/2008

There's a new addition to the Hilton Head Plantation fitness schedule!  Tai Chi Classes are now held at the Spring Lake Pavilion...........classes will start October 20 and run for 6 weeks.  Classes will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 on Mondays.  What is Tai Chi?  It's a soft martial art that exercises your body, mind and spirit.  The movements massage your internal organs and create an awareness of correct posture, weight transfer and balance. The instructor for this class is Molly Carrington.  If you would like to register for the class, contact Keriann @ 681-8090.  They need 12 participants to get started so don't delay if you're interested in this class.   FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I WELCOME YOUR INQUIRIES, GENERAL QUESTION... 10/04/2008

         Family Fun Night will be held this Friday (October 3) at The Sandbox, Hilton Head's innovative hands-on interactive children's museum.  Grab the kids and come on over to the museum  for a fun family night of craft projects, firetrucks from the town on display and of all things, a pizza scavenger hunt!  I have to admit I have no idea what a "pizza svangener hunt" would be but it sounds like fun.  The Sandbox will celebrate Fire Safety Month and National Pizza Month during October (yum) --sounds good!  Located at 18A Pope Avenue by St Andrew's Methodist Church, the Sandbox is a stop you don't want to miss if you're visiting Hilton Head.  Open to the public by admission, it is a must stop for a rainy day or any other day for that matter!  For more information contact:  843-842-746... 10/02/2008