Welcome Home to Courtney Bend!

2012-01-27T15:24:00.001-05:00

Snow Day on Hilton Head!

2012-01-26T10:04:00.000-05:00

Come see it snow on Hilton Head

Ages 2-18 $10 Per Child Includes Activities, Concessions Sold Separately

All Proceeds Benefit the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association Children's Scholarship Fund.

Shelter Cove Park

11:00AM - 4:00PM

843.681.7273

2012-01-26T10:03:00.001-05:00

2012-01-25T09:48:00.000-05:00

Attention pet owners…..

When walking your pet, please remember to use the outer perimeter of the property. You should not walk your pet directly in front of the building, or near the sidewalks and/or amenities. Also, remember to clean up after your pet and that they should be on a leash at all times.The Paw Park is NOT a designated pet walking area.. Please walk your pet PRIOR to taking them in the Paw Park. This is simply for them to play in! Also, pets are NOT permitted in or around the pool area. By doing so, your neighbors and the staff will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Keep in mind, that per your lease agreement, animals may only use grassy areas except amenities, mailbox and office. Should you violate your lease agreement there is a fee of $100, then $10 each day until you resolve the matter.

Thank You,

Courtney Bend Management

Bluffton's New HOT Spot!

2012-01-24T09:43:00.001-05:00

Station 300 is the latest addition to Buckwalter Place in the heart of Bluffton, South Carolina. This high-tech entertainment center is a dazzling 33,000 square feet of 24 bowling lanes, Traxx Restaurant & Lounge, and the latest arcade games.

25 Innovation Drive

Buckwalter Place

Bluffton, SC 29910

843-815-BOWL (2695)

Hours:

Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat - 9am-2am

Tues, Thurs & Sun - 9am-12am

Lovin' Spoons opens Bluffton location | Bluffton Today

2012-01-23T10:48:00.000-05:00

Lovin' Spoons opens Bluffton location | Bluffton Today

2012-01-21T12:44:00.001-05:00

2012-01-20T09:52:00.000-05:00

Is there a More exciting Show?

2012-01-19T14:30:00.002-05:00

Is there a more exciting show in the world than Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus? We don't think so, its not an accident the circus is called the Greatest Show on Earth. The show will have a number of new acts that are sure to delight audiences of all ages, shapes and colors.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was started when the circuses of James Bailey and P.T. Barnum were merged with the Ringling Brothers Circus in 1919. The first star of the circus was Jumbo, which the circus advertised as the words's largest elephant in 1882.

Lions and Tigers and Acrobats, Oh my! Nothing beats a performance like Ringling Brothers Circus in the fine circus tradition.

2012-01-18T09:19:00.001-05:00

Yesterday marked the birth day for Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr – otherwise known as Muhammad Ali!

The former boxer, social activist and global figure who represents the face of boxing worldwide turned 70 yesterday. The world will pause for the athlete’s birthday, who was nominated the 20th century’s greatest athlete by Sports Illustrated!

Happy Birthday, you’re an inspiration to all!

2012-01-13T12:01:00.004-05:00

Our office will be closed Tuesday, January 17th. The staff will not be available to assist anyone until Wednesday at business open (8:30am). The clubhouse amenities will open after 6pm. If you are in need of maintenance or the courtesy office, please call: 877-314-6751. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation. Have a great weekend!!

2012-01-13T11:36:00.001-05:00

Martin Luther King Celebration!

2012-01-12T09:14:00.000-05:00

Bluffton on Monday will celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the civil rights leader’s visions of community building.

The theme for the 28th annual celebration is “The Great Initiative of Change.”

Events honoring King begin with a 1 p.m. Memorial Service in the auditorium at Town Hall, 20 Bridge St.

A parade/march will follow at 2 p.m., starting at and circling back to Town Hall for the conclusion, a cookout.

“Everyone is invited to participate in this event,” said organizers in the MLK Observance Committee.

That includes joining the parade/march, said Anne Cooke, committee vice president/acting chairman.

“We don’t want any spectators. We want everybody to be marching or driving a float,” she said.

For the Memorial Service, the program will consist of performances by youth from Campbell Chapel AME, First Zion Baptist and St. John’s Baptist churches and the Boys & Girls Club, Cooke said.

Also, the Observance Committee will present the annual Drum Major Award to an honoree for service to the community.

From Town Hall, the parade/march route will go north up Pritchard Street, head left down Bruin and May River roads, turn left on Thomas Heyward Street and then go left on Bridge Street back to its starting point.

While the parade is open to all who show up, groups entering a vehicle or float are asked to contact Cooke or Connie Atkins, treasurer/program coordinator, in advance. Reach Cooke by phone at 757-3417 and Atkins at 248-390-1798.

2012-01-11T16:54:00.000-05:00

Remember Pest Control will be here tomorrow, so if you have any issues please let us know!

Happy Wednesday!

2012-01-11T09:44:00.001-05:00

For Rent: 1BR/1BA Apartment in Hardeeville, SC, $709/month

2012-01-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

For Rent: 1BR/1BA Apartment in Hardeeville, SC, $709/month

2012-01-09T10:30:00.001-05:00

It's the Weekend!

2012-01-07T09:47:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday!

2012-01-06T09:13:00.002-05:00

2012-01-05T11:49:00.001-05:00

Don't forget rent is due. Today is the last day to pay without the late fee. Remember, you can pay online. All you have to do is:

Log on to www.courtneybend.com, you will see a “resident corner” hyperlink, click on that and it will direct you to www.rentpayment.comwhere you can complete the payment process. Remember if you pay with your bank account it’s FREE! Once you have made the payment, you will receive a reference number to confirm payment has been processed.

Rent is due on the 1st of each month. There is a grace period offered to you for convenience. Rent is late on the 6th of each month.
You can also download the rent payment application onto your iphone to accomodate your schedule.

Happy Wednesday

2012-01-04T14:03:00.001-05:00

2012-01-02T17:01:00.002-05:00

Effective, January 2,2012, we are using a new answering service to help better serve our residentsand their requests. If you are in need of emergency maintenance or the courtesyofficer, please call

(877) 314-6751

(Monday-Friday 6pm-8am, Saturday 5pm-10am,Sunday all day)

Be sure to provideyour name, phone number and apartment number so our staff can contact you.

Thank you!

8 ways to Simplify your life in 2012!

2012-01-02T09:27:00.000-05:00

Streamline your workouts, your morning makeup, even yourresolution list. Here are eight New Year tips on how to look better and improveyour health for 2012.

1. Focus your New Year's resolutions

Got a long list of ways you want to overhaul your life? Simplifyit and you'll tick off more by year's end, says Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D., ahealth psychologist at Stanford University and author of "The WillpowerInstinct." Setbacks are inevitable while making a change, she says,"but what's important is to not let one failure turn into an off week ormonth." Here's how to prioritize so you get real results.

Pick the one thing that matters most. You're most likely to succeed if you stickwith a resolution (or two) that is compelling and inspiring to you. How to tellwhat's a keeper? Pretend it's 2013: Are you grateful you made this change? Ifyour answer is "eh," drop it.

Think big picture. That old advice about making resolutionsspecific and measurable? Not quite spot on. You could, after all, check offyour goal of exercising 30 minutes each day, then help yourself to a secondpiece of cake -- not consistent with your true overall desire to be fit."Rather than an outcome like losing 20 pounds or saving $10,000, identifya value, like health or financial security, that becomes your focus for the newyear," McGonigal says.

Give yourself a break. Think about what you're pretty sure you can do-- then cut it in half. So if you want to save 10% of each paycheck this year,aim for 5%. And if you don't always hit the mark, don't get discouraged: Evenif you saved only 2% this month, that's still in line with your overarchinggoal (financial health), so onward and upward!

2. Simplify your schedule

If you cringe at each ding of your BlackBerry calendar, you mightbe over-scheduling yourself, says Sherrie Bourg Carter, Psy.D., author of"High Octane Women."

Four ways to get control:

--Book like a therapist. Make appointments 50 minutes long, leaving 10 minutes of flextime to return calls or make up for running long. "Without that cushion,inevitably something will put you off schedule," says Carter.

--Get real. If it's time to trimobligations, but everything feels essential, ask yourself: What was my originalgoal? If you signed up for marathon training to be more active, but now you'reso achy you spend every night on the sofa—there's your answer.

--Be single-minded. "When you get pulled away from a task by email, it takes 16minutes to return to your previous level of productivity," says Carter.Plow through work faster by turning off all bells and whistles until a projectis finished.

--Pencil yourself in. Slot in time for yourself, even if it's just a 10-minute walk inthe sun. "Then," says Carter, "don't cancel it!"

3. Make under your morning beauty routine

You can sleep in tomorrow: Carmindy, makeup artist on TLC's "WhatNot to Wear" and author of "Crazy Busy Beautiful," officiallyreleases you from the mandate to re-create your features every a.m.: "Youwant to enhance your natural beauty, not contour new cheeks." Try this toget gorgeous with a lot less effort:

Go big. Apply blush with one swipe of a large powder brush. "Atraditional brush puts too much on a smaller area, so you spend timeblending," Carmindy says.

Highlight key spots. Sweep pale-vanilla shimmering shadow under brow,on inside eye corner, and on cheekbone top. "The contrast makes you lookas good as if you were wearing more makeup," she says.

Skip the blowout. Every other day, swap your shampoo and blowdryer for a de-greasing powder. "Brush this through and hair's perfectagain," says Carmindy.

4. Streamline your go-to meals

Six p.m. might just be the shortest hour of the day. Save the dicing,measuring, and fussing and still get healthy, mouthwatering food on the tablewith these tips from Ellie Krieger, R.D., host of the Cooking Channel's"Healthy Appetite" and author of "Comfort Food Fix."

Use no-chop ingredients. All you need for a great homemade meal in 15minutes is a quick-cooking, minimal-prep protein (chicken or fish), wholegrains (whole-wheat pasta, brown rice), and veggies that are already bite-size(snow peas, baby arugula). "I love garlic basil shrimp with cherry tomatoesand orzo -- you don't even need a knife," Krieger says.

Swap shortcuts. You might automatically grab a tub of shredded Parmesan, thenhead to the fresh produce section for veggies. But rethinking which ingredientsyou buy premade can cut time and boost flavor. "Frozen peas and spinachare easier and just as good as fresh in many dishes," Krieger says."But there's no substitute for freshly grated cheese. Plus it has moreflavor than store-bought, so you use less." Just put a hunk on the dinnertable along with the grater.

Alter the atmosphere. A lot of cooking stress comes from theattitude you walk into the kitchen with, Krieger says: "I used to approachmaking dinner as drudgery, but then I started putting music on, pouring a glassof wine, having my daughter there ripping up lettuce for the salad. It canbecome the nicest part of your day."

5. Edit your news feed

To counter iOverload, unsubscribe to useless e-lists and newsfeeds. Then use a bare-bones or customizable home page like iGoogle (instead ofa headline-heavy one) or a customized reading app like Flipboard, suggests GarySmall, MD, professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at the Universityof California, Los Angeles, and author of "iBrain."

6. Lighten your handbag

It's a great way to instantly feel more organized. To do it:Follow these steps from Regina Leeds, author of "One Year to an OrganizedLife."

Take everything out. Separate it piece by piece into groups of likeitems, creating categories as you go (cosmetics, pharmacy, work essentials).

Get brutal. Toss the trash and trade full-size anything for travel-size.Admit what you can do without (superglue? spare thumb drive?).

Repack. Tuck each group of must-haves into different-colored meshbags—easier than remembering which of your purse's seven pockets your lipstickis in.

Do a daily sweep. Take 60 seconds when you get home to filereceipts, clear out junk, and replenish supplies. You should be feeling lighteralready!

7. Weed out your closet

Weird-but-true wardrobe math: Subtracting pieces can make you feellike you have more to wear, says Dana Ravich, fashion stylist and co-author of"I Have Nothing to Wear!." Clear out the freeloaders this way:

Give it three rounds. First, toss anything that's not in goodcondition (you can't even donate it). Second, donate what no longer matchesyour life or style -- uncomfortable shoes, plunging necklines that make youfear a wardrobe malfunction. In round three, try on what's left. "Anythingthat stays must be a 10," says Ravich. That means it satisfies two additionalcriteria: It flatters your figure and expresses your personal style. Varietyisn't as important as quality. So what if you wear one of the same fivefabulous bottoms every day? Your bottom will look fabulous every day.

Slim down your rack. Trade bulky wood and plastic hangers for"huggable" ones. "These are very thin felt hangers thatquadruple your space and grip all your spaghetti straps and anything else thatnormally slides off," says Ravich. Don't hang knits, by the way -- stackthem on shelves.

Display jewelry. You can use a plastic hanging organizer withdozens of clear, zippered compartments so that jewelry stays detangled andvisible all at once. Done.

8. But keep one pair of almost-fit jeans

Yes, you want to streamline. But hanging on to jeans you hope tofit in can help you stick with a fitness goal, says Jennifer Baumgartner,Psy.D., author of "You Are What You Wear." Hang them right on yourcloset door, she advises, so you can visualize the payoff.

Tonight we're gonna party like it's 2012

2011-12-30T09:02:00.001-05:00

A quick guide to what is going on in Savannah for New Year's Eve

Before you ask, yes, there will be fireworks over the Savannah River on New Year's Eve. Anyone planning to be on River Street Saturday evening should try looking into the sky at 11:59 p.m. The ‘works are going to be hard to miss.

Would it surprise you to learn that Tybee Island's New Year's Eve fireworks display is the best-attended annual event out there?

Sure, there are probably a few stragglers on the island still looking for Miley Cyrus (that was so 2009, people), and the October Piratefest gets the most attention and media coverage (and moves the most alcohol).

But shiver me timbers and swash me buckle, thousands gather on Tybee every Dec. 31 for the area's largest pyrotechnical show. It starts at midnight, it's free (of course), and you're welcome to watch from the pier, the pavilion, the beach, or the sidewalk outside any of the fine wining ‘n' dining establishments in the immediate vicinity.

That is, if you can find a parking space.

Auld lang songs

Should you want to find out what bands are playing where on New Year's Eve, our weekly Soundboard section contains the most thorough listing in Savannah.

However, there's a lot of information there (those pesky other six days of the week, for example). So here's a bare-bones, pick ‘n choose rundown of the music scheduled in local nightclubs on the biggest party night of the year:

Liquid Ginger plays ‘80s-style rock ‘n' roll and rock-solid originals at Wild Wing Café; Live Wire Music Hall's got up-and-coming Savannah rockers Listen 2 Three; Outstanding rockabilly quartet Crazy Man Crazy shares a bill at the Wormhole with the psych-rock outfit Sinister Moustache; Bad Justice rings out the old at the Boiler Room (a new club, at 302 Williamson St., next to Savannah Smiles); the Eric Culberson Band plays the Warehouse, on River Street; the Fletcher Trio is at Retro on Congress. Look for smooth R&B and funky delights from A Nickel Bag of Funk at Tantra Lounge. The bluesy Jon Lee & the Canebrakes are onstage at Isaac's on Drayton.

At the Tybee Island Social Club, Bottles & Cans and the Train Wrecks will alternate sets; the electronica bandThumbprint has got you covered at Huc-a-Poos Bites & Booze.

Hip hop DJ Basik Lee - a charter member of Dope Sandwich - is spinning at Congress Street Social Club, while DJs also take center stage at the Jinx's New Year's Eve Dance Party. DJ Jake the Snake has the tables at Hang Fire.

Are you plungeworthy?

Meanwhile, back on Tybee Island, the New Year will be welcomed, traditionally, with the annual Polar Plunge: At 11:45 a.m. on New Year's Day, you can yell, scream, act crazy and run into the ocean. Or you can run into the ocean first, then yell and scream when you hit that chilly water. Costumes are encouraged, but remember, it's a family event.

There's a new twist this year: Plungers are invited to help Tybee get into the Guinness Book of World Records as "The Largest Gathering of People Wearing Swim Caps." The previous record - 546 people - was set last July in Osaka, Japan.

Here's how it works: For a $25 registration fee, participants get an official Tybee Polar Plunge latex swim cap and a long-sleeve Tybee Polar Plunge T-shirt. All proceeds will go towards the restoration of the Tybee Post Theater.

Those who would prefer to avoid the water altogether are welcome to register, get the cap and T-shirt, be a part of the Guinness effort, and stay dry. It's your call.

Similarly, if you want to plunge, you can do that without registering for the world record contest.

Advance registration and/or pick-up of swim cap and T-shirt is available on Saturday from 1-4 p.m. at the Tybrisa Roundabout. The on-site Guinness registration table, by the pier entrance, opens at 9 a.m. Sunday.

Top 10 New Year's Eve Destinations

2011-12-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

All over the world partygoers look for the ultimate New Year's Eve bash. Major cities have a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants but it can be hard to find a truly original and exciting way to welcome in the new year. For those looking for a unique way to celebrate the occasion, check out these 10 spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations across America.

THE STRIP: SIN CITY

The Las Vegas Strip is closed to traffic and transformed into a pedestrian party for thousands of celebrants. With plenty of food, drink and entertainment, including street performers and show girls, there is a wealth of activities to keep revellers occupied until the magnificent midnight pyrotechnics.

If one's New Year's Eve isn't complete without a little clubbing, then one will get a treat in Vegas, where celebrities join the masses at upscale nightclubs. Those prepared to spend $150 to $250 may get the chance to rub elbows with A listers. Alternatively, take in one of the big acts hosted by the large hotels andcasinos before seeing 40,000 tons of fireworks set alight at midnight.

TIMES SQUARE: NEW YORK CITY

Every year people worldwide tune in to watch Dick Clark count down the seconds to the famous ball drop inTimes Square, while the hundreds of thousands of people lucky enough to be there create a jam in and around the square—so don't expect to be able to leave until the party's over!

Merrymakers can continue to celebrate well past midnight at parties held in clubs, restaurants and hotelsin the Times Square area and throughout Manhattan. For those who have made resolutions for a healthier lifestyle in the new year, start off on the right foot with the Brooklyn Bridge Walk or the New Year's Midnight Run.

BAY BOAT TOUR: SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco celebrates the new year with a variety of flamboyant events. A harbour tour is an ideal way to see the city lights and brilliant fireworks displays. Family cruises are affordable, typically hosted by a DJ and serve finger food and light drinks. Adult cruises offer four-course meals, top-shelf bars, live bands and dance floors.

There are also a variety of indoor and outdoor benefit events in San Francisco, including masquerade balls, themed galas and fashion shows, many of which feature unusual entertainment including exotic dancers, magicians and acrobatic acts.

HAWAIIAN LUAU: HONOLULU

Honolulu has plenty of nightclubs, hotels and restaurants at which to welcome the big occasion but the most inspiring is a traditional Hawaiian luau, where guests can experience colorful and animated island rituals. A buffet-style meal includes seafood, chicken, beef, pork and lamb dishes and open bars are well stocked with beer, wine and tropical cocktails. Stories are told using a fusion of legendary songs, mesmerizing chants, traditional Polynesian dances and modern choreography.

Fireworks are an important part of Hawaiian celebrations, stemming from Asian influences in Polynesian culture. View the amazing displays from Waikiki Beach or offshore on a boat cruise.

DISNEY WORLD: ORLANDO

Walt Disney World Resort is the ultimate destination for families to welcome in the new year. Music, dancing, parades and spectacular fireworks ensure that it is a night to remember. The Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center and Hollywood Studios are open late but theAnimal Kingdom closes at 8pm. Adults will enjoy Pleasure Island where a huge street party is fuelled by a generous buffet, live entertainment, dancing, plenty of party favors and a midnight fireworks display.

Parks reach capacity through the day after which further admittance is not permitted so arrive early and spend the entire day.

TORCHLIGHT PARADE: ANCHORAGE

Fire and ice is the only way to describe the astounding New Year's Eve celebrations in Anchorage, Alaskawhere the cold doesn't stop locals from enjoying the biggest party of the year. Downtown hosts musicians, dancers, acrobats, jugglers and magicians performing around the skating pond and an amazing array of ice sculptures carved by local artists.

Meanwhile, in nearby Girdwood, the Torchlight Parade begins, a longstanding tradition involving 300 skiers and snowboarders. Participants traverse the slopes of Mount Alyeska with bamboo torches, illuminating the mountain with a trail of firelight. The evening ends with the biggest fireworks show in Alaska.

NEW ORLEANS

In New Orleans New Year's Eve is a little bit different from most places; midnight is when the party really begins. The biggest celebration is at Jackson Square, packed with festive partygoers eager to ring in the new year. Instead of a ball drop, Baby Bacchus falls from his perch atop the Jax Brewery. A magnificent fireworks show over the Mississippi River follows, then the crowd migrates to Bourbon Street to party until morning.

Bars, clubs and restaurants offer a more intimate atmosphere for the festivities. And there is an abundance of family events, including 'countdowns to noon' hosted by the Louisiana Children's Museum andAudubon Zoo, complete with games, entertainment, balloons and confetti.SPACE NEEDLE: SEATTLE

Seattle's most famous landmark becomes the center of a dazzling display launched from 75 locations on and around the needle. One hundred thousand spectators watch from the ground but the best view is from the Space Needle itself. Start by taking the minute-long elevator ride to the top. Those lucky enough to catch a snowstorm will see snowflakes floating gently upward, since the elevator moves faster than the snow falls. Dine in SkyCity, a sophisticated restaurant with a rotating 360-degree view of the Seattle skyline,Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Elliot Bay and surrounding islands. Then check out the open-air observation deck (O Deck) directly above the restaurant to best experience the lights and sounds of the fireworks display.

CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL: ST. CROIX

A real party lasts more than one night. In the US Virgin Islands the annual Crucian Christmas Festival on St. Croix begins on the first Thursday in December and ends on the first Saturday of January. Experience traditional events such as the crowning of a Queen and King, calypso contests and parades. In mid-December, onlookers from the boardwalk enjoy the annual St. Croix Boat Parade, a procession of boats ablaze with festive lights accompanied by music and fireworks. New Year's Eve is celebrated at the Festival Village in Frederiksted.

PEACH DROP: ATLANTA

A great way to count down to the new year for the whole family is the annual Peach Drop at Underground Atlanta. This 20-year-old celebration is the largest New Year's Eve party in the Southeast (and the second largest event of its kind in the United States, behind the famous Times Square ball drop). The fun begins at noon and goes to midnight. Early events include kids' games, activities and live music. At night expect fireworks, big name acts, and of course, the much anticipated descent of the 800-lb (363-kg) peach.

It is recommended that celebrants who want to dine out on the big night make reservations for restaurants in the vicinity of Underground Atlanta; all of the bars and nightclubs in the area are open until 4am.

Popular New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-28T09:11:00.001-05:00

These New Year's resolutions are popular year after year. Find resources to help you achieve your goals.

Holiday Office Hours

2011-12-27T09:43:00.001-05:00

Residents:

Our office will be CLOSING Saturday December 31, 2011 at1:00PMand will be CLOSED all day Sunday January 1, 2012 in observance of theholiday. We will re-open on Monday January 2,2012 at 8:30AM.

Should you have a maintenance emergency please call

843-208-3420. (please note this number has changed effective 1/1/12.)

We hope everyone has a safe andhappy holiday!

Courtney Bend Management

***There will be an attendant on duty from 1PM to 6PM Saturday and we will be CLOSED on New Year’s Day***

Also, please remember tocheck community updates via our CourtneyBend Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CourtneyBendApartments

2011-12-27T09:03:00.000-05:00

Celebrate New Year's Eve on the Savannah River! Join everyone on board for a one of a kind riverboat party cruise! This 2 1/2 hour cruise includes: hors d'oeuvres spread, midnight champagne toast, party favors, live entertainment, dancing and a cash bar. **Guests MUST be 21 or older for this event**

Ring in 2012 in style!!

Boarding at 9:00 p.m., Sailing at 10:00 p.m., Retunring at 12:30 a.m.

Groups of 25 or more, please contact our sales department at 912.232.6404.

New Year's Eve Party Cruise
Adult Price: $56.95

Gift Card Purchase Bonuses-Restaurant and Retail List

2011-12-26T16:54:00.003-05:00

Major U.S. retail chains and restaurants are offering bonuses to customers who purchase gift cards in the 2011 Christmas shopping season in order to capture their fair share of the $28 billion of gift cards that are expected to be purchased in 2011. Retailers and national restaurant chains are giving away free gift cards, merchandise discounts, gift certificates, and other freebies and bonuses the purchaser of the gift card, which purchasers can use as an extra gift, or keep and redeem themselves.

This is a complete list of retailers who are offering free and bonus gift cards, discounts, and gift certificates with the purchase of gift cards, e-gift cards, mobile gift cards, and e-gift certificates as a marketing promotion in the 2011 holiday gift shopping season. This list is arranged alphabetically, according to the name of the retail chain.

Complete List of Gift Card Bonuses Offered by Retail and Restaurant Chains:

Benihana
Get a $10 bonus gift card when you purchase a $50 gift card through 12/31/11

Burlington Coat Factory Gift Card Bonuses
Receive a bonus $5 gift card with the purchase of a $50 gift card through December 24

Bonefish Grill Restaurant
Get a $20 bonus gift card when you purchase a $100 gift card and get an entry in the Bonefish Grill 12 Days of Happiness sweepstakes

Black Angus
Get a $5 Bonus Bucks Card when you purchase a $50 gift card or get free shipping and a $5 Bonus Bucks Card when you purchase a gift card worth $75 or more.

California Pizza Kitchen
Get a $20 bonus gift card when you purchase a $100 gift card

Carraba’s Italian Grill
Get a $20 bonus gift card and an entry to win $5,000 when you buy a $100 gift card

Cheesecake Factory
Get an eSlice of Joy, good for one slice of cheesecake (redeemable 12-26-11 through 3-31-12) when you purchase $25 in gift cards (by December 25, 2011)

Chili’s
Get a 10% discount on the purchase of $100 in gift cards

Claim Jumper
Get 5% in bonus gift cards when you purchase $500.00 or more in gift cards. Get 10% in bonus gift cards and free shipping when you purchase $2,500.00 or more in gift cards.

Culver’s
Get a bonus certificate good for a free Double Deluxe Value Basket when you purchase a $25 gift card

Denny’s Restaurant
Send a free Denny's holiday e-card and get a free Red Velvet Pancake Puppies Sundae for yourself and each person you send the e-card to.

Famous Dave’s
Get a $5 bonus gift card when you purchase a $25 gift card at participating Famous Dave's restaurant location

Gordman's
Get a $10 Savings Card with the purchase of a $50 Gift Card through 12-24-11

Maggiano’s Little Italy
Get a $20 bonus gift card plus a subscription to Food and Wine Magazine when you purchase a $100 gift card

Outback Steakhouse
Get a $20 gift card (which can be used from January 1 - February 10, 2012) for every $100 in gift cards you purchase through December 31, 2011

Qdoba Mexican Grill
Get a $5 Qdoba voucher (redeemable in January and February, 2011)for every $25 loaded on a single Qcash Card

Red Robin Get a $5 Bonus Bucks card (good from January 1 - February 29, 2011) when you buy a $25 gift card or get a 20% discount for with the purchase of $500 in gift cards

Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Get a $5 bonus gift card when you purchase $25 in gift cards

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Get 10% in bonus gift cards when you purchase $250 in gift cards

Stonewood Grill & Tavern
Get a $50 bonus gift card when you purchase $250 worth of gift cards or a $40 bonus gift card when you purchase $200 in gift cards, or a $30 bonus gift card when you purchase $150 in gift cards, or a $20 bonus gift card when you purchase $100 in gift cards

Sweet Tomatoes
Get a free "meal pass" when you purchase a $50 gift card through January 31st

Taco Bell
Get a free Chicken Flatbread Sandwich Combo when you buy a $20 gift card

Taco Cabana
Get a $5 bonus gift card when you purchase a $25 gift card

Ted’s Montana Grill
Get a $20 bonus card and an entry to win a $1,000 gift card when you purchase $100 in gift cards

The Children’s Place
Get a $10 e-gift card when you purchase $40 in gift cards

Uno Chicago Grill
Get a $5 bonus voucher when you purchase $25 in gift cards

Holiday Office Hours

2011-12-23T12:35:00.002-05:00

Office & Clubhouse Holiday Hours:
Saturday 12/24 10am-1pm.Then night attendant will on duty from 1:30 pm to 5:30pm. Be sure to get your packages by then..bring your ID!

Sun. 12/25 CLOSED.

2011-12-22T10:53:00.000-05:00

Don't Forget Holiday Party Tonight Starting at 6:30pm!

Come Join Us For Drinks,Finger Foods and Candy!

Special Appearance By Santa!

2011-12-21T10:58:00.000-05:00

Having opened its doors on December 4, 1818, the historic Savannah Theatre is the oldest one of its kind still operating on its original site in the USA. Restored in 2002, the Savannah Theatre combines the 1940's Art Deco Style with a state-of-the-art light and sound system, producing a variety of shows throughout the year.

This joyful holiday show brings you two hours of glitz and glitter celebration.The theatre is transformed into a perfect holiday picture, sharing memories of the Christmas standards that you know and love. Sprinkle in a little comedy and audience participation for the greatest event of the season. It's the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with friends, family, and co-workers! Let this exuberant holiday event bring you into the Christmas spirit as this professional cast sings and dances their way into your heart!

3:00 pm Saturday & Sunday

(late November through late December)

8:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday

(late November through late December)

2-3 hours long

2011-12-20T14:57:00.005-05:00

Don't forget to RSVP for the Courtney Bend Holiday Party!

There will be FREE Rent give away's and more!

Drinks, Food, Music & Santa!!

Thursday, December 22nd 6:30-9:00pm. See you there!!!

Put a pet under your tree!

2011-12-19T09:53:00.002-05:00

If you've got visions of a puppy wiggling under the Christmas tree this year, hold on a second. First, resist the urge to surprise your family with a cute and cuddly pet. To ensure a smooth transition, discuss routine tasks beforehand such as feeding, grooming, getting home to let the dog out, and poop patrol. If you absolutely, positively must have a puppy or kitten under the tree, then consider this your holiday pet to-do list.

1.Find the best match for your family

Create a detailed list of qualities you want in a pet, including coat length, size and temperament.

2.Consider the source

While the Internet can significantly streamline your search for a new pet, avoid pressing the "Buy Now" button before seeing and handling any pet.

3.It pays to vet your pet

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Make sure that your prospective pet has a clean bill of health.

4.Make the search a family affair

Since everyone in the family will care for the new addition, let everyone participate in the search by visiting animal shelters and rescue organizations.

Heart set on one breed? Check animal shelters

Animal shelters and rescue groups have no shortage of purebred dogs that result from owner surrender or even puppy mill raids.

5.Seek references for a reputable breeder

If you decide to purchase a purebred, visit national breed club sites (Google "American XX Club") to get a referral in your area.

6.Invest in training

2011-12-16T09:09:00.001-05:00

Courtney Bend Holiday Party

2011-12-15T14:55:00.000-05:00

2011-12-15T11:39:00.000-05:00

Coastal Pipe and Fire will be on property on Friday December16, 2011 to perform our annual fire alarm inspection. Technicians from CoastalPipe and Fire will be out at 9:00AM to begin the inspection. Technicians mayneed to gain access to your apartment during this time, so please secure anypets you may have. The alarm will be made to sound.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matterplease contact our office at (843) 208-3420.

Thank You in advance for your cooperation.

Courtney Bend Management Staff

2011-12-14T11:18:00.000-05:00

Santa has arrived at the beach and is at the Tanger 2 Holiday Tiki Post In the courtyard next to Shopper Services at Tanger 2 onSaturdays and Sundays. Children will receive a free treat from Santa and parents will receive a free Tanger coupon book offer* (limit 1 book per family per day). Photographer Ron Casas will be available for photos, which range from $15-$40. With the purchase of a photo package, each child in the family will also receive a free praline treat from Kilwins.

Dec. 3-18

12:00 pm to 4:00 pm

2011-12-13T09:43:00.000-05:00

Discover Old Town Bluffton

Known for its historic charm and relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle, Old Town Bluffton is alive with rich history, boutique shopping, a vibrant arts community and mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine. Just over the bridge from Hilton Head Island, Old Town Bluffton can be a fun day trip or a weekend getaway, either way there’s plenty to do and see in the Old Town.

Ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss line the quaint streets of Old Town Bluffton. Many of the town’s 19th-century homes have been transformed into cafes, galleries and antique shops where regulars greet old friends and welcome newcomers with infectious Southern hospitality. Perched on the bluff of the May River, you’ll catch glimpses of the beautiful marsh and hints of refreshing breezes as you stroll the sidewalks and explore the heart of Bluffton.

The one-square-mile National Historic District features eight antebellum buildings, including the Historic Heyward House (Bluffton’s official welcome center), the Church of the Cross built in the 1800s, the Bluffton Oyster Company, the art district along Calhoun Street as well as intersecting side streets of quaint stores and cafes.

Visitors enjoy the local farmers market, crabbing and fishing, adventures on the May River, shopping, golf and fresh, local seafood. Beyond the historic district, Bluffton offers some of the area’s best outlet shopping as well as restaurants and hotels.

Each year, Old Town Bluffton hosts a number of parades, festivals, historical, and cultural events, inviting visitors to share the pleasures and charms of this fun-loving community.

http://bluffton.hiltonheadisland.org/

Annual Fire Alarm Inspection

2011-12-12T14:40:00.001-05:00

Coastal Pipe and Fire will be on property on Friday December 16, 2011 to perform our annual fire alarm inspection. Technicians from Coastal Pipe and Fire will be out at 9:00AM to begin the inspection. Technicians may need to gain access to your apartment during this time, so please secure any pets you may have. The alarm will be made to sound.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter please contact our office at (843) 208-3420.

Thank You in advance for your cooperation.

Courtney Bend Management Staff

Don't miss Hardeeville's Christmas Parade !!!

2011-12-09T13:16:00.001-05:00

2011 HARDEEVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE

SATURDAYDECEMBER 10th @ 10am

Location:City Hall, 205 E. Main Street

Flu Shot Clinic

2011-12-09T11:06:00.001-05:00

Residents!!!!

Please don't forget that James Frost will be at the Courtney Bend clubhouse on Saturday, December 10th (tomm) to give out Flu Shots. Just stop by the office between the hours of 10AM and 1PM to get yours. Only $25!

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the leasing office.

TGIF!

2011-12-09T08:58:00.001-05:00

JOIN US!

2011-12-08T16:54:00.001-05:00

Fire Equipment Repair

2011-12-08T08:53:00.001-05:00

Residents of Building 1 ONLY: Coastal Pipe and Fire will be on property on Friday December 9, 2011 to repair the fire equipment in your building. Technicians from Coastal Pipe and Fire will be out at 9:00AM to begin the repair. Technicians may need to gain access to your apartment during this time, so please secure any pets you may have at this time. Once the repair is complete, the alarm will be made to sound.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Courtney Bend Management Staff

Holiday Party for YOU!

2011-12-07T10:20:00.001-05:00

We would love for you to join us this holiday season!

Courtney Bend is hosting a holiday party for YOU!

When: Thursday December 22nd

Time: 6:30PM to 9:00PM

Where: Courtney Bend Clubhouse

Food and Drinks will be provided!

There will be a special appearance made by Santa!!!

2011-12-07T09:41:00.001-05:00

Pearl Harbor Day 2011

December 7, 1941 - 70 Years Later

Memorial services and ceremonies are scheduled all over the United States to honor those who fought and died at Pearl Harbor 70 years ago.

"This is a day to reflect on one of the darkest moments in our nation's history, and to honor the courage shown by our Armed Forces during the battle at Pearl Harbor and in World War II. Today is an opportunity to recognize these heroes and their bravery, and to recall the sacrifices they made on behalf of a grateful country."

President Barack Obama has signed a proclamation naming Dec. 7, 2011, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. He urged all Americans to fly their flags at half staff in memory of those killed that day.

2011-12-06T16:44:00.001-05:00

Savannah Children's

Theater Presents...

You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

A Kids on Stage Production

December 2-4, 9-11 & 16-18

Friday nights at 7:00pm,

Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00pm

The mission of The Savannah Children's Theater is to

inspire, educate & entertain children & families

through the experience of quality theater

both on & off the stage.

SCT is a non-profit 501(c)(3)

Charitable Organization.

Contact Us

2160 E. Victory Drive. Savannah, Ga. 31404
(912)238-9015
info@savannahchildrenstheatre.org

2011-12-05T09:24:00.001-05:00

Skatefest is held at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Arena at the Savannah Civic Center where the Savannah Civic Center turns into an ice rink for public skating! Sessions begin Dec. 9 through Jan. 8 2011. Tickets are $7.00 per person for each session which lasts for an hour and half. You can also get a A 5-session pass for only $30.00!

For ticket information and to purchase tickets, please contact:

Savannah Civic Center Box Office

(912) 651-6556 or (800) 351-7469

Box Office Hours:

Monday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

Inspections!

2011-12-02T17:10:00.001-05:00

Attention Residents! Arrow Exterminators will be on property Wednesday December 7, 2011 to inspect all FIRST FLOOR apartments. Please secure pets during this time. They will begin their inspection at 8:30AM. We appreciate your cooperation.

Thank You!

2011-12-02T09:41:00.001-05:00

2011-12-01T09:59:00.001-05:00

New uses for Thanksgiving items

2011-12-01T09:25:00.001-05:00

Don't put that aluminum foil or turkey baster away just because Thanksgiving is over and you've finally had that last leftover turkey sandwich. Here are some clever ways to get more than just one dinner's worth out of those handy items.

Aluminum foil:

Aluminum foil as a grilling helper: Really hot grill bars equal dramatic grill marks on your porterhouse. To concentrate the heat and keep it from escaping, lay a sheet of foil over the grill for 10 minutes. Peel the foil off just before cooking, scrunch it into a ball (it cools fast), and use it later to scrape any residue or ash from the bars.

Aluminum foil as wrinkle remover: To get wrinkles out of silk, wool, and rayon clothes that can't take direct heat, place a piece of foil on your ironing board, then lay the garment flat over it. With the steam button down, pass the iron three to four inches over the fabric several times. Wet heat radiating from the foil helps smooth out wrinkles.

Real Simple: New Uses for Kitchen Items

Aluminum foil as fixture protector: Protect doorknobs and hardware in the kitchen and bathroom when you're painting by wrapping foil around them to catch dribbles. The foil molds to the shape of whatever it's covering and stays firmly in place until the job is complete.

Aluminum foil as an antenna: If your DVD player is stacked on top of the TV (or vice versa) and the picture is fuzzy, the two electromagnetic fields may be commingling, confusing the signals. (This usually happens with plastic casings; with metal it's less likely.) Slip a sheet of foil between the machines to separate the fields.

Real Simple: New Uses for Old Things: Holiday Edition

Aluminum foil as glassware scrubber: To get baked-on food off a glass pan or an oven rack, use dishwashing liquid and a ball of foil in place of a steel-wool soap pad, says Mary Findley, president of the cleaning-products developer Mary Moppins. It's one way to recycle those used but perfectly good pieces of foil you hate to throw out.

Aluminum foil as a funnel: Fashion a funnel of foil to neatly transfer salad dressings or condiments from tacky plastic bottles to pretty carafes or back again. Place it in the bottle and pour away.

Aluminum foil as a piecrust protector: To prevent a piecrust from burning while the filling cooks, make a foil collar to deflect heat. Take a piece of foil about 25 inches long, fold it into thirds lengthwise, and fasten the ends with a paper clip. Halfway into the baking, slip the collar over the crust (as shown). Leave it on until the pie is done.

Real Simple: New Baking Uses

Turkey baster:

Turkey baster as water changer: Easily change dirty water in a flower vase with a turkey baster. Suction up the old liquid without disturbing your arrangement. Then add fresh water directly from the tap.

Turkey baster as plant dryer: Bail out a waterlogged plant by suctioning excess water from the pot's base.

Turkey baster as duster: "I use one to clear dust from tiny spaces, like between computer keys." -- Real Simple reader Kristina Warren from Santa Rosa, California

Real Simple: Surprising Cleaning New Uses

Turkey baster as emergency roadside assistance: "To help pry open frozen car doors, I fill a baster with hot water and saturate the area around the door edges until the ice melts." -- Real Simple reader Jill Waldrop from Spring, Texas

Wine corks:

Wine corks as cabinet silencers: Silence cabinet doors that slam by slicing a cork into thin disks and sticking them onto the inside corners of cabinets to muzzle the closing noise.

Cork as utility knife cap: Cap an X-Acto knife before tossing it into a drawer.

Cork as earring holder: Marry pairs of earrings. Stick the posts into a cork to keep them together.

Cork as fire starter: Get a blaze crackling faster. Keep wine corks in rubbing alcohol in a sealed jar (stored away frm the fireplace of course). Just before lighting a fire, toss a few in under the kindling.

Cork as sewing kit: Make a compact sewing kit. Stick needles and pins in the cork. For a little zip, wrap it with a few lengths of thread.

Real Simple: New Uses for Dryer Sheets

Cork as heat protector: For a heat protector, slip a cork or two under a lid's handle and you'll always have something safe to grab.

Please help our family this year!

2011-11-30T09:50:00.001-05:00

Please join us to help give our adopted family a beautiful Christmas!

As most of you know each year the ContraVest FAMILY, Friends, Vendors, Residents, and Contractors all come together to adopt Bernadette Hanlon our BEAUTIFUL FRIEND and CO-WORKER to give her 6 daughters a Christmas they will never forget!

For those of you who have not heard of Bernadette’s story, she is a single mom with 3 girls of her own and a less than 5 years ago her oldest daughter had a regular babysitting job to watch 3 little girls. Her daughter had an unexpected school event on the same night she had committed to babysitting. The girl’s mother’s name was Amy, that night Bernie offered to cover for her daughter by watching Amy’s girls in her home. Amy’s oldest daughter 13 at the time decided to stay home alone while the other girls stayed with Bernie. That night a turn of events drastically changed all of their lives forever. Amy’s ex-husband broke into Amy’s home tied up her daughter and waited with a knife for Amy to return. When Amy walked into their home she was brutally attacked and murdered in front of her 13 year old daughter. Luckily Amy’s boyfriend who was parking the car walked in just in time to save Amy’s daughter, he too was stabbed in the struggle and fortunately survived. Amy’s daughter’s had only one living relative a grandmother who was elderly and unable to care for the girls… Bernie took these distraught little girls into her home because they had no one. Their father was arrested and charged with their mother’s murder. Fast forward nearly 5 years, Bernie has spent countless hours fighting the system to protect these children. She spent numerous hours at trial to see that their father paid for his crime and numerous hours at doctor’s appointments for child counseling, she is proud to tell everyone that she was able to officially ADOPT the girls!

As you can imagine it’s a difficult job being a single mother of 6 girls! Bernie’s 3 girls have sacrificed so much by welcoming their new sister’s into their very small home. Amy’s daughtershave suffered an unforgettable loss in the murder of their mom. No matter how difficult things have been Bernie has been the one constant in their life! Bernie is an “ANGEL” in every since of the word!

It is our honor each year to give this beautiful and certainly deserving family a wonderful Christmas one that they will remember and cherish for years to come! Christin, Wendy and Darla will head up the fundraiser this year! We ask that you donate whatever you can--no amount is too small! We are asking for donations in the form of gift cards (Visa, American Express, Wal-Mart or Target), cash or personal checks. Please make personal checks payable to Christin Tenpenny so she can cash them to make the actual purchases from the girls Christmas lists.

***Please bring in or mail donations to: C/O Christin Tenpenny, ContraVest Management Company, 237 South Westmonte Drive, Suite 140, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714. We appreciate any donation you can make to help this family. If possible would love to receive the donations into us by December 10th to give us time to shop for the gifts!

From our family to yours, thank you!

ContraVest/Courtney Bend Staff

Keep a little Jingle in your pocket this holiday season!

2011-11-30T08:58:00.001-05:00

Refer a friend and receive $200 off your rent!! Make sure you tell your friends to mention your name when they come in!

Cyber Monday!

2011-11-28T10:33:00.001-05:00

Did you skip the lines on Black Friday? There's still Cyber Monday

Almost every major retailer plans on taking advantage of the hottest day to shop online.

Black Friday Safety Tips

2011-11-25T10:15:00.001-05:00

Here are some tips from leading experts on how best to minimize the chances of becoming a crime victim during the Thanksgiving Holiday Shopping Weekend.

•Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

•Dress casually and comfortably.

•Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

•Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.

•Always carry your California Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.

•Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

•Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

•Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.

•Keep cash in your front pocket.

•Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

•Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

•Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.

•Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

•Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

Tanger Outlet Moonlight Madness

2011-11-23T12:07:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving Weekend Hours

Thanksgiving, Nov. 24: 10pm-12am

Friday, Nov. 25: 12am-9pm

Saturday, Nov. 26: 9am-9pm

Sunday, Nov. 27: 11am-6pm

2011-11-23T10:13:00.001-05:00

Holiday Hours

2011-11-22T12:13:00.001-05:00

Residents:

Our office will be CLOSING Wednesday November 23, 2011 at 1:00PM and will be CLOSED all day Thursday November 24, 2011 in observance of the holiday. We will re-open on Friday November 25, 2011 at 8:30AM.

Should you have a maintenance emergency please call

1-800-779-1075.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

Courtney Bend Management

***There will be an attendant on duty from 1PM to 10PM Wednesday and we will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day***

Also, please remember to check community updates via our Courtney Bend Facebook.

Turkey Chase in Historic Bluffton

2011-11-22T09:18:00.001-05:00

Before a day of second pieces of pumpkin pie and mountain-sized helpings of mashed potatoes begins, Blufftonians can run Thanksgiving Day in the Bluffton Turkey Chase 5K Run.

The run begins 8:30 a.m. at the Bluffton Oyster Co. on Wharf Street.

Historic Bluffton Turkey Chase

When: 8:30 a.m. Nov. 25. Packet pick up/last-minute registration runs from 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.

Where: Bluffton Oyster Co., Wharf Street, Bluffton

Description: Start your Thanksgiving off with a 5K race through Historic Downtown Bluffton for the inaugural Turkey Chase. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Huntington Disease Society of America (www.hdsa.org).

Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for ages 15 and under

2011-11-21T10:36:00.001-05:00

Thursday, November 24th is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. It is a day for expressing thanks for the good things in life, especially family and friends.

The writer O. Henry called it the one day that is purely American. For many Americans, Thanksgiving is the only time of year when all members of a family gather together. More than any other holiday, Thanksgiving is a celebration of family and home.

On Thanksgiving, family and friends enjoy a long day of cooking, eating, and talking. The Thanksgiving meal almost always includes turkey meat with a bread mixture cooked inside. Other traditional foods are sweet potatoes, cranberries, and pumpkin pie. Stores sell more food at Thanksgiving than at any other time of the year. And many people eat more food on Thanksgiving than at any other time of the year.

Thanksgiving is celebrated every year on the 4th Thursday of November, during autumn in the United States, after crops are gathered. When the first European settlers in America gathered their crops, they celebrated. They thanked their God for the success of the harvest. Tradition says the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 by Pilgrim settlers from England. There is evidence that settlers in other parts of America held earlier Thanksgiving celebrations. But the Pilgrims' Thanksgiving story is the most popular.

The Pilgrims were religious dissidents who fled oppression in England. They went first to the Netherlands, then they left that country to establish a colony in North America. The Pilgrims landed in 1620 in what later became known as Plymouth, Massachusetts. Their voyage across the Atlantic Ocean was difficult. Their first months in America were difficult, too. About 100 Pilgrims landed just as autumn was turning to winter. During the cold months that followed, about half of them died.

When spring came, the Pilgrims began planting crops. A Native American Indian named Squanto helped them. When summer ended, the Pilgrims had a good harvest of corn and barley. Some vegetables had grown poorly. Yet there was enough food to last through the winter.

The Pilgrims decided to hold a celebration to give thanks for their harvest. Writings from that time say Pilgrim leader William Bradford set a date late in the year. He invited members of a nearby Indian tribe to take part. That Thanksgiving celebration lasted three days.

The Pilgrims did not plan to establish a yearly Thanksgiving holiday. But as the American colonies grew, Thanksgiving or harvest celebrations were held in many towns and settlements. Finally, in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared the 4th Thursday in November as a national holiday of Thanksgiving. At that time, the United States was fighting a civil war. President Lincoln liked the idea of a Thanksgiving holiday that would also celebrate national unity. Since then, the United States has always celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday.

Over the years, some new traditions were added to America's Thanksgiving celebration. For example, a number of professional and university football games are played on Thanksgiving Day. Some of the games are broadcast on national television.

Several Thanksgiving day parades are broadcast on television. These parades are organized by big stores in several American cities. The parade organized by the Macy's store in New York is the biggest. Giant balloons 200 meters high float above the street. The balloons are in the shape of creatures from popular cartoons and television programs. People on the ground hold heavy ropes so the balloons do not fly away.

Thanksgiving also is a time when Americans share what they have with those who do not have much. Churches and other groups provide free meals for old people, the homeless, and the poor. Many Americans give turkeys or other food to these groups. Some spend part of the day helping to prepare and serve the meals.

Religious ceremonies are an important part of Thanksgiving day for many Americans. People join in prayers and songs of Thanksgiving. One of the most famous songs is called "Prayer of Thanksgiving."

The words and music tell of the traditional meaning of Thanksgiving: We gather with our family. We share what we have. And we give thanks for the good things of the past year.

2011-11-21T09:46:00.001-05:00

2011-11-18T09:25:00.001-05:00

Sweet Holiday Baking Tips!

2011-11-17T09:50:00.001-05:00

1. Plan all your holiday menus at once
"Think about what events you'll be hosting, what you'd like to serve and to which office parties, birthday parties or neighborhood potlucks you will bring baked goods. Don't forget to have something extra on hand for the surprise guest or last-minute invite. Dedicate a notebook with a menu page for each event. Write it all down!"

2. Choose desserts that will save you time or that you can prepare ahead of time
"When compiling your recipes, keep it simple! Simple can be really tasty AND beautiful. Enjoy the company - don't stress yourself out.

For example, it's just not the holidays without PIE - pie shells can be premade and frozen. Whole pies can be assembled, frozen and baked when needed. Make extra - they'll keep - and keep you from being pie-less when the second string of party goers show up.

Chocolate Pecan Pie

Ingredients

3 ounces unsweetened chocolate
4 ounces butter
4 large eggs
3 tablespoons Steen's Cane Syrup (you can substitute maple syrup or corn syrup)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup pecan halves, lightly toasted
1 9-inch pie shell

Cooking Directions

Line the pie crust with parchment or a coffee filter, add pie weights and blind bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until light golden.
Meanwhile, in a double boiler in a bowl over a pot of simmering water, melt together chocolate and butter. Set aside to cool.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Steen's Cane Syrup, sugar and salt. Slowly fold in cooled chocolate mixture until thoroughly combined. Add in nuts and pour into pie shell.
Bake at 350 until pie is almost set, approximately 30 minutes. Filling should be soft just in the center about the size of a quarter. Remove pie from oven, cool at room temperature, and serve.

3. Use recipes that you know and love
"Experimenting under a time crunch is not only stressful but if it doesn't work out, you have to scramble to put something else together. (Good thing you have that pie in the freezer...)"

4. Make your shopping list
"Be thorough because - get this - you are only going to the grocery store ONCE! Take stock of every item needed in your recipes. Think ahead, and don't forget garnishes, sauces, parchment, boxes, gift bags, ribbon, cutters, piping bags, piping tips ... you get the idea.

Maybe you already have flour, sugar and chocolate, but do you have enough? Maybe you already have baking powder, baking soda and butter, but are they fresh? If you put a little extra time in the planning stage it will save you loads of time later. That's time you can spend with those friends you haven't seen since last holiday season!"

5. "Do it nice or do it twice" as we say in the kitchen
"The holidays are fun and frenetic and exciting - and distracting. Because of all these wonderful holiday characteristics, there's usually not much time to fix a mistake or make something again.

Baking takes a certain amount of organization and concentration in order for all things to shine. Focus on what your recipe calls for, measure correctly, mix correctly, prepare your pans and bake at the correct temperature until it's done. Sweets are never better than when baked with a little extra love!"

2011-11-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

Recently awarded Entertainer of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards, Taylor spent last month playing to capacity crowds in Asia, and this month she has headlined arenas throughout Europe. During the show, Taylor performs on two different stages -- playing several different acoustic and electric guitars and also the piano and the ukulele, and has earned rave reviews from critics at every SPEAK NOW tour stop.

Friday, November 18, 2011 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Location:

Colonial Life Arena

801 Lincoln St

Columbia, SC

United States

2011-11-15T11:20:00.001-05:00

Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM) will hold an adoption event at the Fall Festival being held at AAA Storage City, 3715 Argent Blvd, Ridgeland-Cherry Point Area of Okatie, near the intersection of SC 170 and Argent Blvd.

Please stop at AAA Storage City to see our lovely adoptable cats & dogs.

Adoption fee is $100.00 which includes spay/neuter, age appropriate shots, and microchipping.

Need more info? JARM (843) 726 - 7799

Community Quiet Hours

2011-11-11T15:50:00.001-05:00

Community Quiet Time is from 10pm-8am. Please make sure you are doing all that is possible to ensure a quiet environment for you and your neighbors in the community. We now have a Courtesy Officer! If needed, please contact the resident hotline @ 800-779-1075.

Parking Assignment Details

2011-11-11T15:40:00.001-05:00

1. PARKING availability is limited. Each unit is guaranteed two (2) spaces.Resident spots will be labeled “R”

2. Vehiclesparked on the property must be registered to the resident, have current vehicleregistration tags and MUST HAVE A COURTNEYBEND RESIDENT DECAL.

3. Car repairs are not to be done anywhere onthe premises. No car parts, broken ordisabled vehicles will be stored in the parking premises or anywhere else onproperty. Non-operative vehicles will betowed away at the tenant’s expense without warning. No trailers, boats, capers, recreationalvehicles, or trucks over one ton are allowed without written authorization.

4. The parking areas and garages are not forstorage. These spots are to be used by residents only and will not be labeled. Combustible, hazardous or explosive materialsor dangerous accumulations of rubbish; or accumulations of wastepaper, boxes,shavings or any highly flammable materials is not permitted. This is a fire violation and safety hazard.

5. Please be considerate of yourneighbors. ALL GUESTS must park in spotslabeled “G.” Any car withouta Courtney Bend resident decal parked in front of a garage or in any spotmarked “R” will be towed without warning.

6. VEHICLE LICENSE NUMBERS- Residents arerequired to keep management informed of vehicle license numbers that will beparked on the property.

7. RESIDENT DECALS MUST BE RETURNED ATMOVE OUT OR YOUR ACCOUNT WILL BE CHARGED A $75 FEE. REPLACEMENT DECALS ARE ALSO $75.

ANYVEHICLE IN VIOLATION OF THIS AGREEMENT IS SUBJECT TO BEING TOWED AT VEHICLEOWNER’S EXPENSE.

2011-11-11T09:23:00.001-05:00

2011-11-10T13:29:00.001-05:00

Dear Residents,
Are you looking for some holiday CASH?

Refer a friend and receive $200!!

Parking

2011-11-09T12:01:00.000-05:00

The parking labeling has been completed.
Please make sure you have your decal on your car.

Parking Lot Painting for November 9th

2011-11-08T08:43:00.002-05:00

The following areas will be painted on Wednesday, November 9th. You will receive a notice today on your door as well. :)

Parking Lot Painting

2011-11-07T16:28:00.001-05:00

2011-11-07T09:32:00.001-05:00

2011-11-04T13:37:00.003-04:00

Daylight saving time ends this Sunday at 2 a.m.

Remember to set your clocks back one hour when you go to bed Saturday night.

We will begin Parking Lot Painting on Monday Nov. 7, 2011

2011-11-04T09:37:00.002-04:00

Tastefully Simple

2011-11-03T09:36:00.001-04:00

What does a bite, a chew, a nibble, a gobble, a sip, a slurp = Tastefully Simple! Please join us at the Courtney Bend Clubhouse on

Sunday November 6th, from 2-5PM

for a Tastefully Simple party!!!

Happy Wednesday!

2011-11-02T10:38:00.001-04:00

2011-11-01T09:29:00.002-04:00

Rent is due on the 1st of each month. You also have a grace period until the 5th each month to pay.
For your conveniance, we have set it up so that you can pay rent online! Just visit our website, log onto rent payment and pay with your debit/credit card!

2011-10-31T09:48:00.000-04:00

2011-10-28T09:15:00.001-04:00

For Rent: 2BR/2BA Apartment in Hardeeville, SC, $940/month

2011-10-27T13:48:00.000-04:00

For Rent: 2BR/2BA Apartment in Hardeeville, SC, $940/month

Wondering what to do with extra Halloween Candy ?

2011-10-26T09:37:00.001-04:00

Halloween is fast approaching, and so is the morning of November 1 when parents and trick-or-treaters begin suffering from confectionery overdose.

So what's a ghoul to do with all those pillowcases and Jack-o'-lanterns filled to the brim with sugary treats?

1. Storm the blender - make a blizzard!
"Don’t have the time to hit up Dairy Queen? Try crumbling your Snickers, 3 Musketeers, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and sprinkling them over ice cream or place in a blender to create a homemade blizzard or flurry. For added effect, add caramel or chocolate sauce and a dash of milk to create a smoother texture.

This is a tasty and fun option that the entire family can put their stamp on with their favorite candies."

2. No dropping this Butterfinger Layer Cake
"This is the perfect fake-out dessert treat that your friends and family will love. It’s easy and you can substitute any of your favorite pint-sized candies to make this party dessert.

Make (or buy) an angel food cake and cut into three layers horizontally. Spread each layer with whipped cream (or thawed Cool Whip if you don't want to make your own). Sprinkle crushed Butterfinger bars over the whipped cream before putting the layers back together. Eat immediately or freeze."

Angel Food Cake
1 1/4 cups sugar
12 egg whites
1 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Sift flour and salt into medium-sized bowl. In a separate large bowl, beat egg whites for about 1 minute. Add cream of tartar to egg mixture and beat gradually while adding in sugar for about 2-3 minutes. Beat in vanilla.
Sift flour mixture into egg mixture in 4 batches using a sieve. Gradually fold in flour with a spatula.
Pour batter into an angel food cake pan with a removable bottom and smooth top. Release any air bubbles with small spatula by gently cutting through batter.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Invert pan and let cool for about 1 hour.
Release cake from mold by running a knife along the inside of the pan and remove the bottom of the pan.

3. Crazy cocktail concoctions
"For the 21 and older crowd, Lemonheads, Skittles, SweeTarts or Red Hots are the perfect candies to infuse in vodka for a sweet or sour martini.

To infuse, funnel vodka into a glass mason jar or water bottle and add sweets to the mixture. Secure lid tightly and shake for about 10 seconds. Set aside in refrigerator for a few hours as the sweets (and color!) dissolve in the vodka.

After the sweets have dissolved, create a straining system by placing a coffee filter over a large glass measuring cup. Pour infused vodka over the coffee filter to separate candy and other debris from the liquid.

Repeat filtration process if candy debris remains or chill and serve in your favorite martini recipe.

Don’t have time to wait out the infusing process? Try a quick fix by adding a lollipop to your martini as a clever cocktail stirrer or garnish. Perfect to amp up a date night or a girls night in."

4. Cuckoo for candy bar cookies
"I love cookies. They are the perfect way to let your creative flag fly. Everyone has their favorite method to make cookies, whether from scratch using their grandma’s secret recipe or just popping frozen dough into the oven.

Why not use some of that leftover candy to add some flair to your usual chocolate chip cookie recipe? Fold in your favorite candies by chopping them up into smaller pieces to transform the traditional round treat. Try this quick recipe with Baby Ruth, Milky Way, Rolo Caramels or other miscellaneous chocolate pieces.

Not a chocolate lover? Take out the peanut butter and add in Red Hots or Nerds, or for an added kick and pinch of color."

Makes about 18 cookies
3 cups sifted flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup softened butter
3/4 cup smooth peanut butter
2 eggs beaten
1 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
2/3 cup milk
5 small candy bars, chopped up
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cream the butter, peanut butter and sugar until it is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and mix well, then add the vanilla.
Sift the dry ingredients together and add alternately with the milk. Stir in the cut-up candy bar pieces.
Spoon teaspoon sized drops on greased cookie sheets. Bake about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

5. The happiest treat on earth - Frozen Banana Pops
"One of my favorite childhood memories was frozen bananas from Disneyland. Fruit is the perfect companion to sweets. You can get your serving a fruit (with no guilt) by mixing it up Disneyland-style with some of your favorite leftover candy.

Insert a wooden craft stick into a peeled banana and place in freezer until hard and frozen. Take M&Ms, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or any chocolate candy of your choice and melt in the microwave then coat frozen banana in the melted mixture. Dip banana in almonds, peanuts, rainbow sprinkles or other topping and place in the freezer until hard."

Halloween Party

2011-10-25T11:46:00.002-04:00