This month, Monthly puts a spotlight on local men who make a difference. From business, medicine, real estate, dining and development, these profiles showcase their success stories. The men discuss their background, motivation, and the distinct approaches they’ve taken to thrive. Their influence is valued and has made a positive impact in our communities. 

JUST CUSHIONS & HILTON HEAD FURNITURE CO.

By Barry Kaufman | Photo by Ritterbeck Photography

Toward the back of Just Cushions, within the stunning new furniture showroom marking the Hilton Head Furniture Co., you’ll find one item that is conspicuously out of place. Arrayed throughout, the furniture on display reflects the elegance and style of contemporary Lowcountry design. It’s a delightfully refined modern motif, which makes the antique sewing machine on the back wall stand out even more.

SACAPALABRAS

By Barry Kaufman | Photos by Rob Kaufman at Peaceful Henry’s

Some leading men are born to find one overarching passion in their life and follow it with dogged determination, never straying from their appointed path. Some leading men, however, are more diversified. We call them things like “serial entrepreneurs” and marvel at their seemingly bottomless ability to find their next passion, and their steadfast dedication to keeping so many irons in so many fires.

By Barry Kaufman | Photo by Rob Kaufman

When Joe Gancio came down from New Jersey with a vision to open a true neighborhood barbershop, he knew he wasn’t going to be able to do it alone. He was going to need to form a team.

CAROLINA VETERINARY CRITICAL CARE

By Barry Kaufman | Photo by Ritterbeck Photography

If there are two pillars of Dr. Matthew Tenwolde’s practice, they are honesty and a sense of community.

MERRILL LYNCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT

By Barry Kaufman | Photo by Ritterbeck Photography

What Mike Sirgo created when he started his financial practice office in 1993 was intended from the start to be generational - working with clients, their children and their grandchildren to help families build a legacy. Along the way, he wound up truly creating a legacy of his own, bringing his son Luke into the firm.

THE ALLIANCE GROUP REALTY

By Barry Kaufman | Photo by Rob Kaufman

At the risk of oversimplifying things, the real estate market is in a very interesting place right now. Interest rates have risen, inventory is slim, and yet the market remains brisk.

HERITAGE ACADEMY STUDENTS LEARN FROM ACCOMPLISHED FILMMAKER

BY CLAY BONNYMAN EVANS | PHOTOS SUPPLIED

The “Despicable Me” animated film franchise debuted in 2010, introducing the world to the pill-shaped, yellow “Minions,” among the most widely recognized and beloved cultural touchstones of the early 21st century.

1. MEMORY MATTERS NAMES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jill Horner was named executive director of Memory Matters. She was recently the executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York. Horner also spent 17 years working for a national political advertising agency where she led campaigns, ballot initiatives, and public affairs for candidates running for political office.

COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND BELOVED HANDYMAN WALLY SUMNER

BY MARK E. LETT | PHOTOS BY LAURA R. WILSON

Stroke victim Walter Sumner is taking a long, hard road to recovery.

The good news: He’s not traveling alone and he’s picking up speed.