Men and Their Chairs

11th Annual Celebration of Local Men

MIC 0617

There’s something special about the relationship a man has with his chair. Curiously, we wanted to see some of the chairs our local Beaufort County men are attached to, and therefore, went looking for a few good men. We did a good job finding them, and not only did they have a favorite “chair,” creative as it may be, but a lot of heart as well!

MIC 0617 Tolbert
My Favorite Motto: “When things go wrong as it sometimes will, when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill, when care is pressing you down a bit, rest if you must, but don’t quit!”

Something that would surprise people:  I am 6’4” without  an athletic bone in my body! I am horrible on the basketball court and often am asked if played in college.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: As Martin Luther King aspired to see, a world where the measure of a person, and his/her potential is not judged by  class, status, race, sex, or religion, but a world where diversity is embraced.

The craziest thing I’ve ever done:  I have extreme stage fright, and most would not consider this to be crazy, but most recently I danced on a stage in the presence of hundreds of on-lookers in “Dancing with our Stars.”  This was for a worthy cause, but definitely pushed the boundaries of my comfort zone.

My perfect day off work would be: Spending a day in my backyard, watching dolphin frolic and enjoying the soothing breezes from Chowan creek, listening to the deep tones of wind chimes.
My greatest career achievement: I recently was approached by a former patient, whom I took care when she was a teenager.  She wanted to thank me for words of motivation and encouragement I shared with her during her visits with me.  She is now a nurse and wanted me to know that those brief moments in the exam room had a life changing impact on her destiny...what greater achievement than to positively influence the lives of others.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Relax, and enjoy the ride, you‘re gonna be alright my brother.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: I shared with my wife that I’d like for the next phase of my professional life to be dedicated to medical mission. This I must do before I die.

If my chair could say anything about be, it would probably say:
“Man, what’s going on?  Your backside has significantly expanded over the years…LOL!”


MIC 0617 Bowen

My favorite motto or words to live by:
(1)  “Books are written about the agony of men who can’t answer questions such as yours.” (from “Zorba the Greek”) (2) “You may be whatever you resolve to be.” (words of Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson over the Jackson Arch at VMI) and (3) “Don’t you buy no ugly truck.” (from advertisement for Springfield Ford)

Something about me that would surprise people: My family has been involved on Hilton Head Island since before 1724. Col John Barnwell, who was my ggggggg grandfather left more than 1,000 acres of the plantation he owned at “Scule Point“ or “Scull Point“ on “Hillton head“ to his daughters in his will dated May 4, 1724. He was the first person buried in St Helena’s Churchyard in Beaufort.
One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: All my children happy and content.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: Buying a 50’ Hatteras

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: On the water, taking the boat to Marshside Mama’s for a Mama Burger.

My greatest achievements: Being a husband, father and grandfather; surviving Vietnam; recovering a multi-million dollar estate for an 87-year-old lady whose children had taken all her money and property; teaching young people and coaching the Bluffton Mad Dogs.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Don’t do it!

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: Seek and receive forgiveness for my sins

What you should know about my chair: It’s the captain's seat of a vintage boat I restored.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “Sit here more often.”


MIC 0617 Pettinato

My favorite motto or words to live by: The golden rule, to treat others the way we would like to be treated. While I have picked up many wise words of advice over the years, I find if I remember this one, everything else falls into place.

Something about me that would surprise people: I run ultra marathons. I say this because it still surprises me. While I don’t train specifically for them, I find the challenge, not only physically, but also mentally, a wonderful experience. You don’t know what you can accomplish until you try, which applies not only to the run, but everything in life. (Editor’s note: An ultra marathon is any race longer than a traditional marathon—typically 50K or 100K.)

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: The first person to walk on Mars. With so much to accomplish here on earth, it may seem trivial, but the desire to explore and challenge the bounderies of what we know is so important. Also, I missed Neil Armstrong taking the first step on the moon, so it would be pretty cool.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I got lost in the Pisgah National Forest. I wandered for a while and eventually found a road and civilization. It was a humbling experience, one I will never forget. Never forget, no matter how lost you are, keep searching, and you will find your way out.
My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Running on the beach bright and early, followed by a relaxing day in the sun with friends. In the evening, watching a movie, reading a book and catching up with friends and family back home.

My greatest career achievement: The opportunity to join the team at Delisheeyo, offering healthy and fresh food to everyone on the island. When you love what you do, it really isn’t work at all.
One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Savor every day, and don’t rush anything. Everything happens for a reason. Life is not about instant gratification, but rather putting in the work for the things that matter to you.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: The top three in no particular order: Climb Mount Everest, kayak the Colorado River and run the Appalachian Trail.

What you should know about my chair: My chair of choice is the Eno hammock. Hammocks date back to the Mayans sometime around 1000 A.D., originally made from bark of the hammock tree, hence the name. There have been many variations over the years, but I do love this version. It is made of extremely light material and is easily portable, which makes it perfect for taking to the beach, or for use during long hikes through the mountains. Of course, it’s also perfect for the backyard on a relaxing day off.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say:  “He likes to work hard, but life is all about balance. Rest and recovery are just as important.”



MIC 0617 Berry
My favorite motto or words to live by: “Be Here Now”

Something about me that would surprise people: My ear for music comes from my father, who was the founder of the largest community band in Maine.  My siblings and I were caregivers for him at a young age, as he dealt with early on-set Parkinson’s Disease.  We had to learn many tough life lessons at a young age.  

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: I would love to see John Williams conducting the Star Wars soundtrack in person.   

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I have skied down several double black diamonds above 7500 ft.  

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Something outside involving water.

My greatest career achievement: I have had the opportunity to play with amazing musicians with so many fantastic organizations in the Lowcountry, but my greatest joy is seeing a former student continue to pursue music beyond their time in the classroom.  

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Life is too short to waste time.
Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: I love seeing new places and new things, so I would love to travel to all 50 states and as many countries as possible.  

What you should know about my chair: I started sitting on this chair (piano bench) when I was 7 years old and haven’t stopped yet.  Despite a few life setbacks, I continue to grow as a person, musician, and educator.  

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “Don’t give up…anything that is difficult is worth doing.”


MIC 0617 Pringle
My favorite motto or words to liveby is: a quote from Martin Luther King, “A genuine leader is not a searcher of consensus but a molder of consensus.”

Something about me that would surprise people: I was a Carolina (USC) fan until my daughter Allison went to Clemson.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: Economic development that reaches those who truly need economic development.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I turned down a chance to work at the Waldorf Astoria.

My perfect day off from work would be spent: Kayaking near some exotic island.

My greatest career achievement: Is right around the corner.

One piece of advice I would give to my 18-year-old self: “The two most important days of your life is the day you were born and the day you find out why.” —Mark Twain

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: To be comfortable with the life I’ve lived.

What you should know about my chair is: It has had 3 different homes, a doctor’s office on HHI, my home and now Bluffton Boundary.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “Nate chill. Take a load off and relax for a while.”



MIC 0617 Alberto
My favorite words to live by: “We will be remembered in spite of ourselves.” —Abraham Lincoln

Something about me that would surprise people: I Have written a memoir of our nine years on Daufuskie, titled Small Craft Warning, which I hope to publish by late summer.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: That we “stop judging books by their covers“ and learn to accept differences in one another. Almost any Mark Twain quote works here.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I sailed to Bermuda from Skull Creek one month after retirement in 2003. We almost didn‘t make it, a perfect storm.

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Work or no work, almost every day I spend here is perfect.

My greatest career achievement: In 1994, I was invited to be the guest speaker at the Hilton Head High School graduation by students I had taught in eighth grade, four years earlier.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Not to take myself too seriously.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die? I have lived a life of accidental accomplishments. I have, with average ability, exceeded my wildest expectations.

What you should know about my chair: My chair, bless its heart, is obsolete and being replaced by an electrified, swivel base, leather recliner. It has served me well, better than I deserved.  Although any chair used by me has light duty, because I have been accused of never sitting down—something about perpetual motion. My chair will be  donated once the new one arrives and it has a lot of life left in it.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “He is not nearly as smart as he thinks he is.”


MIC 0617 Graham
My favorite motto or words to live by: Truth makes us free and eat more pie.

Something about me that would surprise people: I wear a kilt. Often.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: Universal healthcare and an end to hunger.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: A free dive, on a breath of air, through a short, but pitch dark, twisting underwater cave in Jamaica.

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Anything with my whole family that includes music and jamming together.

My greatest career achievement: Committing to invest my time doing what brings the most satisfaction.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Trust your instincts.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: Play in a band with my brothers.

What you should know about my chair: It’s a Boston rocker my parents got when I was born, back in ‘57.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “Rock on, KG!”


MIC 0617 Bertholf
My favorite motto or words to live by: “It’s not about how you get knocked down, it’s all about how you get back up.  Everyone gets knocked down, not everyone gets up.”

Something about me that would surprise people: I like to listen to classical music to de-stress or in the background while studying or working.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: I hope to see my children succeed in life and be happy.  

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: Any personal actions or engagements pale in comparison to the challenges I faced as a Marine nearly 20 years ago and throughout my career as a firefighter.  Most of what I consider “everyday” activities are viewed as “crazy” by normal standards.  The list of what I haven’t done is shorter. I have not parachuted nor have I tried a wing suit!

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: I truly enjoy spending time boating with my family or taking them fishing.  We also enjoy traveling, and when I manage to string multiple days off together we love to see the world!

My greatest career achievement:  I have been fortunate enough to mentor many successful firefighters over the years, and my career achievements are miniscule in comparison to the exponential success I have found through helping others succeed.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self:  Everyone is nervous and no one has the right answer. However, those who are successful have learned how to navigate their own feelings, make decisive decisions and stand strong in the face of adversity, but sway with the winds of change without toppling over. (Like an oak tree, the wind blows and blows but the roots of the tree are reslolute and the tree will weather many storms throughout its life, however short it may or may not be.)

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die:  Seeing my children successfully launched into life and to be there in the background for them as much as they would like for as long as is possible.
What you should know about my chair:  My “chair” has seen laughter, tears, consternation, and thought for longer than I have been alive and will continue to do so long after I am gone.  The chair of the Fire Chief is a chair that sits at the table that is the soul of a community.  Many members and their “chairs” make up a community’s soul but the men and women who are fortunate to lead its public safety organizations are in unique positions to lead in good times and in bad. The men and women who have graced offices such as mine throughout our nation have laid the groundwork for me to continue to work to leave these “chairs” better than we found them.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “I am simpler than some would think. It would say that I am sometimes here early and often here late. It would say that my son and daughter love to sit in it and read one of the children’s books on my desk.  Finally, it would say that on the tough days, when the difficult decisions are made, it simply provides a little comfort to me while I do what needs to be done.”



MIC 0617 Averill
My favorite motto or words to live by: My favorite motto or words to live by: “It is what it is.” I have learned that some things you just can’t stress about. You have to let things go.

Something about me that would surprise people: I am typically off on Wednesdays and Sundays. So in an effort to let my wife relax and us spend Sunday together, I do most of the cleaning and laundry around the house. I also love to cook, so I do most of the cooking and dishes as well.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: The Clemson Tigers win back-to-back National Football Championships.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: On a cruise, my wife and I decided we would spend the day with the locals and have lunch. We got a taxi and ended up in a rundown area, but found a restaurant with a homeless man asking for change sitting outside. Turned into the best red beans and rice, jerk chicken and curried goat!

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Relaxing and just enjoying the day.

My greatest career achievement: Being promoted to Store Operator at 24 years old. I always told people I would have my first store before I was 25 years old, and two months before my birthday, I was promoted.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Don’t try to grow up so fast, spend less time working and more time on school, especially your freshman year of college.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: Learn to swim.  I have lived on the water my entire life and never learned how to swim.

What you should know about my chair: I have ran quite a few Piggly Wigglys and always had a nice executive style Leather chair; when I took over the Pig in Port Royal, I essentially had a nice kitchen chair for a desk chair. Three years ago, I decided it was time for an upgrade and purchased a comfortable leather chair. It is my oasis in a desert of tile. In my line of work, I walk approximately five miles a day in a square on tiled floors, so my chair is the opportunity to get off my feet.



MIC 0617 Ring

My favorite motto or words to live by: “Get busy living or get busy dying.”

Something about me that would surprise people: I have watched every episode of The Walking Dead and Breaking Bad. The Walking Dead is my all time favorite show.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: My grandchildren’s weddings.   

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I don’t do crazy things. It’s a long story but moving to South Carolina is one of the craziest things I have done.   

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Amateur photography anywhere out in nature.

My greatest career achievement: I was appointed lead chaplain with the Bluffton Police Department.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Shut up and listen more.

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die:  To go on a photo safari in the Serengeti Plain. I don’t know how I’m going to do it, but I really want to.  

What you should know about my chair:  When I came to Bluffton 12 years ago, I did not have an office at my new job (assistant pastor Grace Coastal Church). So, I went looking for a place I could meet people and set up shop. It didn’t take long to find The Sippin’ Cow. At the original Cow, I sat in the corner sometimes all day. I called it the Godfather seat. I could see everybody in the restaurant.
Today in the new Cow, I sit at the counter. My name is on the seat. I sit at the counter so I can talk with people. I get to share life and stories with everybody and anybody who takes a counter seat. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say:  “Lose weight!”


MIC 0617 Johnson
My favorite motto or words to live by: It’s in The PAIN!

Something about me that would surprise people: I have a twin sister, and I don’t eat pork.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: For everyone in my family to reach their full potential and achieve all of our individual goals.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: I drove 12 hours straight on 3 hours of sleep.

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: On a perfect day I would spend time with my family.

My greatest career achievement: Is creating MADNESS!

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: Stick by your guns and don’t be afraid to be different!!

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: To have a chain of Madness facilities across the world.

What you should know about my chair: I’ve had my chair for two years and it never lets me down!!

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “Take a load off! SIT DOWN PLEASE!!”



MIC 0617 YongueMy favorite motto or words to live by: ‘’Maybe something good will happen! “My kids would probably say it’s “Have you lost your mind?

Something about me that would surprise people: I’m sort of shy.

One thing I hope to see in my lifetime: Our state education system resources being directed to the areas that need the most help.

One of the craziest things I’ve ever done: White water kayaked the upper-most stretch of section 3 of the Chattooga River, without a guide, as a beginner!

My perfect day off from work would be spent doing: Skiing in Utah with my entire family.

My greatest career achievement: Having been a steward of the trust of so many amazing, gifted, wonderful people over the last 40 years.

One piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self: “Don’t do that!”

Something I HAVE to accomplish before I die: Complete a piece of furniture I’ve been working on for the last ten years.

What you should know about my chair: Some of my very best friends have occupied this same chair—pastors I’ve loved, wonderful preachers and teachers, caring and respected mentors that have made my life meaningful and so much more full.

If my chair could say something about me, it would say: “He doesn’t sit for long because he can’t stay still.”

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