Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Enjoy the holidays in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

The weather outside may be frightful (or not), but things are definitely delightful in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia -- St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. The holiday season is rich with sights, sounds and activities that are designed to fill you with good cheer and create lasting memories. Here's a rundown:

DECEMBER 1 - 31

The Holidays in History – Tour Jekyll Island's National Historic Landmark District, decorated for the holidays and reflecting traditions from the Victorian era to the Jazz Age. Tours at 11:00 am, 1:00 and 3:00 pm daily except Dec. 24 and 25. Admission. (912) 635-3636 or jekyllisland.com.

Christmas Nativity Exhibit – Enjoy displays of nativity scenes from around the world. Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum, St. Simons Island. Hours 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday. Closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays. (912) 638-4050 or mooremethodistmuseum.org.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 3

First Friday – Visit the shops, galleries and restaurants of downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations. 5:00 to 8:00 pm along Newcastle Street in downtown Brunswick. (912) 635-4032 or brunswickgeorgia.net.

29th Annual Christmas on the Old Plantation – Learn how Christmas was celebrated on a Southern rice plantation during the 1850s. Take a candlelit stroll down the old carriage road and enjoy tours of the antebellum plantation house, hot wassail and cookies, Civil War reenactors, Christmas carols and a special appearance by Santa Claus. 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, US Hwy. 17 North, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-7333 or gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 4

Annual Christmas Parade – Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. 10:00 am. (912) 265-4032. brunswickgeorgia.net.

Annual Holiday Bazaar – Dozens of vendors offer holiday gifts, arts and crafts, antiques, yard sale items, food and more. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934.

19th Annual Christmas Craft Festival – featuring works by craftspeople and artists from throughout the southeast. Sponsored by Glynn Art Association. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-8770 or glynnart.org.

Gingerbread House Making Workshop – Assemble and decorate your own gingerbread house using materials prepared ahead of time by the Jekyll Island Club Hotel's pastry chefs. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Christmas Tour of Homes – Tour historic Old Town Brunswick homes decorated for the holidays. Holiday bake sale. Portion of the proceeds benefits restoration and maintenance of Oak Grove Cemetery. 1:00 to 6:00 pm. Admission. Tickets and tour booklets available at First United Methodist Church, 1400 Norwich St., Brunswick. (912) 265-4313.

Silver Screen Saturday: "Miracle on 34th Street" – Enjoy a Christmas classic for the whole family. 3:00 pm, Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 262-6934 or goldenislesarts.org.

29th Annual Christmas on the Old Plantation – Learn how Christmas was celebrated on a Southern rice plantation during the 1850s. Take a candlelit stroll down the old carriage road and enjoy candlelit tours of the antebellum plantation house, hot wassail and cookies, Civil War reenactors, Christmas carols and a special appearance by Santa Claus. 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, US Hwy. 17 North, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-7333 or gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 5

19th Annual Christmas Craft Festival – featuring works by craftspeople and artists from throughout the southeast. Sponsored by Glynn Art Association. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-8770 or glynnart.org.

MONDAY DECEMBER 6

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

Christmas Around the World – The Coastal Symphony of Georgia performs holiday favorites by Britten, Corelli and Rimsky-Korsakov. 7:30 pm Glynn Academy Auditorium, 1001 Mansfield St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 634-2006 or coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8

Holiday High Tea – Enjoy one of the highlights of the holiday season, high tea in the Grand Dining Room of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. The chefs have prepared a special menu of tea sandwiches, savories and petite pastries. 4:00 pm. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

DECEMBER 10-12

A Christmas Carol – Annual community production of Dickens' holiday classic, starring Brunswick Mayor Bryan Thompson as Scrooge. Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm; Sunday at 3:00 pm. Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 262-6934. goldenislesarts.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 11

Pier Village Holiday Celebration – Celebrate the holidays with a maritime flavor, as St. Simons Island welcomes Santa's arrival by boat. Live music, refreshments. Mallery Street Plaza at the Pier, St. Simons Island. 1:00 to 5:00 pm.

26th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit five homes with unique holiday decorating ideas. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tours begin at the historic tabby cabins at Gascoigne Bluff, St. Simons Island. Holiday bake sale at the cabins from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. For tickets and information: (912) 638-2880. cassinagardenclub.org.


Dickens Feast – Gather in the Boar's Head Lobby of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for a toast to Christmas Present. Follow the merrymakers into the Grand Dining Room for a holiday feast and theatre production based on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," featuring the Atlanta Acting Company. 7:30 pm. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Satchel and Sadie's Best Friends Bash – A fund-raiser beneath the stars to benefit the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia, featuring live music, holiday hors d'oeuvres by Straton Hall Catering and a cash bar. Halifax Square, Egmont and Prince Streets, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-1191 or BrunswickManor.com.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 12

Santa at Crane Cottage – Visit with Santa in historic Crane Cottage in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. Photographer available. 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Coastal Youth Symphony of Georgia – 3:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, 1001 Mansfield St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 634-2006 or coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.

MONDAY DECEMBER 13

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

DECEMBER 17 - 19

A Christmas Carol – Annual community production of Dickens' holiday classic, starring Brunswick Mayor Bryan Thompson as Scrooge. Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm; Sunday at 3:00 pm. Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934 or goldenislesarts.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 18

Sea-sons Greetings – Meet Santa, make a recycled ornament and visit sea turtle patients. Noon. Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island. (912) 635-4444 or jekyllisland.com.

DECEMBER 20-24

Christmas Bagpiper – Scottish bagpiper Tim Akins heralds the season by the Jekyll Island Club, in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 4:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

MONDAY DECEMBER 20

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 23

Christmas Caroling – Meet at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for caroling in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 5:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 25 – CHRISTMAS

HOLIDAY ART EXHIBITS

The Holiday Show – A selection of small paintings by gallery artists. 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island. (912) 634-8414 or AndersonFineArtGallery.com.

Letters to Santa – Southeast Georgia Health System Outpatient Care Art Gallery, Starling Road in Brunswick. Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. (912) 262-0628 or ArtDowntownGallery209.com.

Event details are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm time, place and admission.

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No matter the season, there are endless reasons to visit Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. Discover fascinating museums and historic sites, take a cruise aboard a working shrimp boat, dolphin watch boat or our casino-cruise ship. Play a round of golf, stroll our beautiful beaches or enjoy a leisurely bike ride. You'll also find a wonderful array of shops, boutiques and galleries filled with unique gifts perfect that special someone on your holiday list. Plus, great restaurants wherever you go, and accommodations to fit every taste and budget.

Start your holiday tradition this year, in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. For information, visit our website. While you're there, be sure to check out our Special Offers page, with discounts and other special offers from local hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions. Come Coast Awhile!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Tour operators, meeting planners to visit Brunswick and The Golden Isles during second "Catch the Coast" tour

More than 40 tour operators, meeting planners and travel writers will get a closeup look at Brunswick and The Golden Isles during the second "CATCH the Coast" tour, Dec. 7 - 9. The tour, sponsored by the Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau, is designed to introduce travel professionals to the area's Culture, Arts, Theatre, Cooking and History – hence the "CATCH" the Coast title.

Organizers of the Brunswick Golden Isles CVB's "CATCH The Coast" tour
expect more than 40 tour operators, meeting planners and travel writers to
attend the tour, which takes place Dec. 7-9. Front: Robyn Crooks. Back row from left:
Abby Ellis, Missy Brandt and Tomee Sellars.
"We conducted our first CATCH the Coast Tour last fall and it proved to be a hit with the participants," said Robyn Crooks, Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn and Suites and Comfort Suites in Brunswick and one of the tour organizers. "Many of those whom we contacted at the time were unable to participate, but wanted to visit the area. We were really pleased at the amount of interest the tour has generated."

Tour participants can look forward to a full itinerary that will include stops in Brunswick and on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. The group will attend a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Jekyll Island Convention Center; enjoy light refreshments and a tour at Brunswick Manor; a "mini trade fair" and dinner at Saltwater Cowboy on St. Simons Island; take a cruise aboard the Lady Jane shrimp boat, and make stops at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation in Brunswick, and St. Simons Lighthouse, the Maritime Museum, Fort Frederica, Christ Church, and the Moore Methodist Museum on St. Simons Island.

The group also will enjoy dinner at Benny's Red Barn and a "hands-on" art activity at Glynn Art Association on St. Simons Island, as well as a reception and play at Art Downtown/Gallery 209 in Brunswick. On Jekyll Island, the group will visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, have lunch at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and take a "Holiday in History" tour of the Jekyll Island Historic District.

"We are really excited about the tour and the many opportunities we will have to show off our area," said tour organizer Abby Ellis, group sales manager for Holiday Inn Express and Best Western Island Inn, both on St. Simons Island. "We are especially grateful to our partners in the tourism industry, who have generously provided their support."

Tour partners include the Holiday Inn Express and Best Western Island Inn, Brunswick Manor, Coastal Georgia Historical Society, Saltwater Cowboy, Art Downtown/Gallery 209, Credle's Adventures, Blackwater Grill, Glynn Art Association, Bennies Red Barn, Jekyll Island Authority, Jekyll Island Club Hotel and Days Inn and Suites, Jekyll Island.

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Here's a video of our first CATCH The Coast tour, in September 2009:



Special thanks to West Marine and Shoreline Marine in Brunswick for their assistance with our "CATCH The Coast" photo and video.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Brunswick Golden Isles CVB welcomes international students during Veterans Day visit

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomed 48 international students and family members to the coast during a special Veterans Day tour. The students are enrolled the U.S. Army's Security Assistance Training Program (SATP) at Fort Benning, Georgia. They represent 24 countries including Moldova, Azerbaijan, Chile, Korea, Slovenia, Jamaica, Portugal, Turkey, Tanzania, Yemen, Bosnia, Rwanda, Georgia, Uruguay, Jordan, Tajikistan, Kosovo, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenistan, Southern Sudan, Nicaragua, Lebanon and Singapore.

International students representing 24 countries visited Brunswick Manor in Old Town Brunswick, during a tour of the area sponsored by the Brunswick Golden Isles CVB. The students are enrolled in the U.S. Army's Security Assistance Training Program (SATP), which is conducted at Fort Benning, Georgia.
During their visit, the group attended the annual Veterans Day parade and program on St. Simons Island, visited the St. Simons Lighthouse, ate lunch at Saltwater Cowboy, visited Fort Frederica National Monument and Brunswick Manor in Old Town Brunswick.

Their visit was coordinated by the Convention and Visitors Bureau, which is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Glynn County, including the City of Brunswick, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

The Security Assistance Training Program is a vital element of U.S. foreign policy, enabling our country to establish valuable friendships and channels of communication with foreign governments and military forces, facilitating U.S. national security objectives worldwide. SATP comprises military training which provides the knowledge and skills to improve participants' military defense capabilities, and increase the ability to operate with U.S. forces in military missions including combat, peacekeeping and humanitarian operations; promote professionalism, with a special emphasis on Human Rights, within their own militaries; and promote security and stability within their own countries and/or regions.

SATP also incorporates the Field Studies Program (FSP), which is designed to expose international students to the diverse American way of life.  Through classroom study and educational field trips, students learn about the American Constitution, government, judicial system, political process, the media, community life and a variety of other topics including ethnic and other minorities, industry, environmental protection and agriculture, the economy, labor and management relations, education and public and social welfare. The program enhances student's appreciation of American values, civil rights, civilian oversight of the military and police, etc. and enables them to return to their home countries with a deeper respect and better understanding of Americans and our diverse way of life.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

October brings festivals, special events to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

October delivers a wealth of annual festivals and special events to Brunswick and The Golden Isles, from outdoor art and antique shows to nature festivals and a PGA TOUR event. Here's a sampling of things to come:

Oct 2   FIRST FRIDAY - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209 and the Ritz Theatre Gallery. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Oct 2-3   ANTIQUE SHOW AND SALE - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Oct 2   DEPT. OF NATURAL RESOURCES COASTFEST - A fun family event celebrating Georgia’s coastal environment and wildlife. Georgia Dept of Natural Resources, Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7218 or visit them online.

Oct 7-10   GEORGIA COAST BIRDING AND NATURE FESTIVAL - This festival brings casual and experienced bird enthusiasts from all over the United States to experience Southeast Georgia’s wide variety of habitats and wildlife. The whole family can enjoy a weekend of activities including nature walks, a showcase of vendors and conservation groups, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, special speakers, and informative seminars. Jekyll Island. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit them online.

Oct 9-10   THE MCGLADREY CLASSIC - The McGladrey Classic, new to the PGA TOUR Fall Series, promises to be a unique and spectacular event as host Davis Love III and his PGA TOUR friends play the beautiful Seaside course at Sea Island Georgia. Showcasing the area’s rich culture, history and extraordinary hospitality, the tournament is sure to become a new Seaside tradition for spectators and players alike. Proceeds from the tournament benefit Special Olympics and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Georgia. For information, visit the McGladrey Classic online.
  
Oct 9-10   41ST ANNUAL FINE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL - More than 120 artists and craftspeople from throughout the Southeast display and sell their works outdoors in Postell Park, Beachview Drive on St. Simons Island. This year's festival includes the Grand Opening of Glynn Art Association's new Visual Art Center. Hours 10 am to 5 pm each day. Sponsored by the Glynn Art Association. Contact: 912-638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org


These are but a few of the activities taking place during October in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. A complete calendar of events can be found at our website, www.ComeCoastAwhile.com. Just click on the "Calendar of Events" button.
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Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Enjoy the great outdoors in Brunswick and The Golden Isles during Georgia Coast Birding and Nature Festival

The vast marshlands, rivers, hammocks and beaches of the Georgia coast make it an ideal
destination for exploring, enjoying and learning about the wonders of the great outdoors.


From mainland forests to
coastal plains, salt marshes, maritime forests and beaches, coastal Georgia offers a variety of habitats that are home to a vast array of plants, animals, birds and marine life. The Georgia Coast Birding and Nature Festival, Oct. 7-10 on Jekyll Island, is an ideal opportunity for exploring, learning about and enjoying the wonders of the great outdoors.

According to event coordinator Lydia Thompson,
this year's festival will offer several "learning tracks" that are tailored to a variety of interests and abilities. "We've broadened our base this year by offering programs and activities for experienced birdwatchers as well as those who are just beginning and don't know where to start. Whatever your level of interest or ability, we'll have something for you."

Thompson is especially excited about the "Family Tracks," which are designed for families with children from ages 6-12. The family tracks cover four topics: Beach, Birds, Marsh and Dock Exploration, and Turtles. Each two-and-a-half hour session will include hands-on activities and excellent instruction by naturalists and nature experts from the Jekyll Island 4-H Center, Jekyll Island Banding Station, Tideland Nature Center and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

The "Beginner and Intermediate Tracks"
offer an array of nature walks, workshops, and field trips. Activities include an exploration of Latham Hammock, beach walks, Segway® PT tours, golf cart nature tours, a canoeing class, a digital photography workshop and more.

"Adventure Tracks" include a
selection of boat, canoe and kayak trips. Activities include brunch on board the Lady Jane shrimp, Altamaha River Delta cruise, canoeing in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, and kayak expeditions through local creeks and marshes.

This year's festival also includes "Evening Adventures," which are geared toward all ages and experience levels. Activities include "Stargazing by the Water," "Stargazing with Binoculars," and a "Bats and Owls Prowl" led by ornithologist Jim Ozier. "Bats and owls are really cool," Thompson explains. "Each bat species has its own sonar. Jim Ozier has a device called a bat detector. By pointing it at a specific bat, he can tell you what kind of bat it is."

Aspiring nature photographers will want to sign up for any or all of three nature photography classes. Led by award-winning nature photographer John Reed, the classes will cover the basic of camera controls, to basic composition and a field practice session.

Other festival activities will include Nature Day, Saturday Oct. 9 inside the Rookery. Raptor shows will be offered at 1 and 5 pm. There also will be an array of exhibits and displays by show sponsors, nature artists and others. At 11:30 am, there will be a sea turtle release on the beach near Great Dunes Park. Admission to Nature Day is free.



Information about the Georgia Coast Birding and Nature Festival can be found online. There, you can download a festival guide with program descriptions and schedules, and register for various programs.


* * *

Who's watching whom?

Do you know that our little section of the Georgia coast is considered a birding hot spot? Of course you do! Bird watching – or, birding – is a wonderful pastime that offers plenty of exercise and enjoyment with minimal impact on you or the environment. And you don't have to go far at all to do it.

There are at least a dozen good places to go birding in our area: Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation and the Earth Day Nature Trail in Brunswick: Gould's Inlet and the John Gilbert Nature Trail on St. Simons Island; Clam Creek and St. Andrews recreation areas on Jekyll Island and, of course, Little St. Simons Island just to name a few.

Each of these are spots along the Georgia Coast Birding Trail, which was established by the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources non-game wildlife division seven years ago. To see a map of the trail, go here.

The best place to get started on your birding adventure is Wild Birds Unlimited, located in the Pier Road Shops on Jekyll Island. These folks know their birds, and they are happy to share that passion with you. They'll help you find the good spots, help you pick the right equipment and suggest other local experts who offer guided nature walks, cruises and more. Call 635-3933 or visit them online.

Monday, September 13, 2010

McGladrey Classic offers fun for spectators on AND off the course on St. Simons Island

October has long been a favorite month for golf in the Golden Isles. This year the stakes have been raised and the inaugural McGladrey Classic, the PGA TOUR’s newest event, will put a national spotlight on the world-class golf and beautiful attractions found in Brunswick and the Golden Isles.

Contested on St. Simons Island at Sea Island Golf Club’s venerable Seaside course, the tournament promises to be a unique and spectacular event as host Davis Love III, a longtime Golden Isles resident, and other PGA Tour notables including three top contenders for the FedEx Cup, Matt Kuchar, Ben Crane and Zach Johnson, compete for the win.

The McGladrey Classic offers spectators an exceptional experience including four days of world-class golf, and the Golden Isles will provide an idyllic backdrop for walks along beautiful beaches, luscious meals, limitless activities and warm Southern hospitality.

The tournament will be held October 6-10, 2010 and all proceeds will benefit Special Olympics and two local charities for children and families - the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia and Safe Harbor Children’s Center, located in the Golden Isles. Limited daily and weekly ticket packages for spectators are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis and are available at www.mcgladreyclassic.com.

Renowned for the superior golf courses, coaching and teaching facilities, the region also provides a rich life off the course, making it a truly special location for residents and visitors to the area. Area highlights include miles of sun-drenched beaches, 180 holes of golf, historic sites and museums, fishing and watersports, quaint specialty shops and galleries, nature programs, and more creating a memorable experience just steps away from the tournament gates.

Showcasing the area’s rich culture, history and genuine hospitality, the tournament is sure to become a Golden Isles tradition for spectators and players alike. For up-to-date information about the area and tournament details, please friend Brunswick and the Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau on Facebook or visit www.ComeCoastAwhile.com and www.mcgladreyclassic.com.

CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE SOME OF THE
ACTIVITIES IN BRUNSWICK AND THE GOLDEN ISLES




Monday, August 23, 2010

Future writer discovers fun, wonder in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

Many people, upon their first visits to Brunswick and The Golden Isles, are mesmerized by the abundant natural beauty, relaxed pace and friendly people they find here. So it was for 14 year-old Shannon, who recently visited our area for the first time with her aunt, travel writer Hope Philbrick.

Shannon, who lives in Minnesota, was es
pecially charmed by her voyage aboard the Lady Jane shrimp, captained by Larry Credle. I invited Shannon, whom I learned is an aspiring journalist, to write something for this blog about her adventure. She shared the following:


Let’s go shrimpin’! Located in Brunswick is the Lady Jane shrimp boat. The Lady Jane (which is open to anyone) takes people on an adventure of catching shrimp.

Captain Larry said that when he was younger he would go shrimpin’ with his dad and would tell his da
d that people are curious to see how we catch shrimp and would pay to have a tour. Now years later, that’s just what he does.


Shortly after leaving the dock, the crew lowers a big net for about 15 to 20 minutes. When they pull the nets up it’s surprising to see what has been caught besides shrimp! There are fish, sharks, stingrays, squids, jellyfish, and more!

There is never a dull moment on the Lady Jane. The crew is wonderful and it’s a great time, so hop on and catch some shrimp!


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Thanks, Shannon, for sharing your story with us. We look forward to seeing you again soon in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Alan Ball comedy opens at Mary Miller Theatre in Brunswick, Georgia


Georgeanne, Trisha, Meredith,
Frances and Mindy are as different as night and day. But they have one thing in common: the dress. It’s big. It’s lime green, with spaghetti straps. And after today, they’ll probably never wear it again. But they’ll discover things about themselves and each other that they’ll treasure forever.

Art Downtown/Gallery 209 presents Alan Ball’s comedy, “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress,” in the Mary Miller Theatre, Saturday evenings and alternating Sunday afternoons through Sept. 4.



Five reluctant, identically-clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom of a Knoxville, Tennessee, estate, each with her own reason to avoid the proceedings below. Frances is a painfully sweet but sheltered fundamentalist. Mindy is the cheerful, wise-cracking lesbian sister of the groom. Georgeanne, heartbroken over her own failed marriage, engages in outrageous behavior. Meredith, the bride's younger sister, is a rebel with attitude and a dark secret. Trisha is a jaded beauty whose die-hard cynicism about men is called into question when she meets Tripp, a charming bad-boy usher to whom there is more than meets the eye. As the afternoon wears on, these five very different women joyously discover they all share a common bond that goes well beyond their hideous bridesmaid dresses.

Georgia native Alan Ball is
the creator and Executive Producer of "Six Feet Under," the critically acclaimed drama series on HBO. Ball wrote the screenplay for the film American Beauty, for which he received the 1999 Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, the Writers Guild of America award for Best Original Screenplay, and the Golden Globe award for Best Screenplay, among others. He has written extensively for television, including the series "Oh Grow Up," "Cybill" and "Grace Under Fire." Prior to moving to Hollywood, he was a noted comedic playwright in New York. Among his numerous credits are Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, The M Word, Made For a Woman, Bachelor Holiday, The Amazing Adventures of Tense Guy and Your Mother's Butt.

Located at Art Downtown/Gallery 209 in historic downtown Brunswick, the Mary Miller Theatre showcases the works of Georgia playwrights. Performances take place in an informal gallery setting. Audience members enjoy coffee and homemade desserts during intermission, and have an opportunity to meet the actors following the performance.


“Five Women” will be presented Saturday evenings, July 17, 24 and 31; Aug 7, 14, 21 and 28, and Sept. 4. Matinee performances will be offered Sunday afternoons, July 18, Aug. 1, 15 and 29. Special group rates are available and private performances for groups are available with prior notice.

For information, contact Art Downtown/Gallery 209 at 912-262-0628 or visit them online at www.artdowntowngallery209.com.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Celebrate the July 4th holiday in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

INDEPENDENCE WEEK ACTIVITIES IN
BRUNSWICK AND THE GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

Though Brunswick and the Golden Isles are a year-round destination, summer is a special time for enjoying our abundant natural beauty, sun-drenched beaches and golden sunshine. Independence Day week is even more special, with an array of fun activities for visitors. Here's a roundup of Independence Week activities in Brunswick and The Golden Isles!

JULY 4 FIREWORKS FESTIVITIES AND DISPLAYS

BRUNSWICK - Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration. Enjoy a traditional small-town holiday celebration, complete with games, prizes, free watermelon, music and fireworks at dusk. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Gloucester and Bay Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-6934.



ST. SIMONS ISLAND - Enjoy the annual July 4 fireworks display at Neptune Park on the St. Simons Island waterfront. Parking is available throughout the village area. NOTE: Lighthouse Trolleys offer shuttle service throughout the south end of St. Simons Island. For more information call 912-638-3333 or visit them online.

JEKYLL ISLAND - Jekyll Island Fireworks Extravaganza. Enjoy this annual family fun party and fireworks finale, on the Jekyll Island beach. $5.00 parking fee at gate. 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Information: 912-635-3636.


INDEPENDENCE WEEK ACTIVITIES

FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

July 2 / First Friday. Visit the shops, galleries and restaurants of historic downtown Brunswick. "He said beer, she said wine" tastings at select shops; live music at various locations. This has become a popular way to spend a quiet Friday evening with friends! 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032.

July 2-4 / Sunshine Festival Arts and Crafts Show. Local and regional artists display pottery, jewelry, painting, sculpture, garden art and more. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Information: 912-262-0628.

July 3 / Sunshine Festival 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. An enjoyable run-walk through the St. Simons Island village area. Proceeds help support the St. Simons Island Land Trust to fund public walking and running trails. Information: 912-634-2514 or visit goldenislestrackclub.com.

July 3 / Living History at the Horton House. Hear tales of the Spanish attack on Horton House following the Battle of Bloody Marsh. Sample Major William Horton's "ale" or root "beer" in honor of Georgia's first brewery. Enjoy colonial games, early American crafts and soldier drills. 2:00 pm. Horton House, Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit jekyllisland.com.

July 3 / Brunswick Bazaar and Farmers Market. Open air market with fresh produce, prepared foods, plants, arts & crafts, antiques, flea market finds, etc. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-6665

July 10 / Art in the Alley. Arts, crafts, food and music. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Grant Street between F and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-0628.

RAINY DAY FUN

July 6 / Story Time. Stories and simple craft projects tied to various themes, for younger children. 10:30 am, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

July 7 / Movies for Kids. 2:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

July 8 / Scrapbooking for Kids. Workshop for kids ages 9 and up. Pre-register: 912-580-4320. 2:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick.

July 8 / Turtle Talk. Staff of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center discuss their work with sea turtles and other animals of the ocean. 7:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia offer a variety of recreational activities, fascinating museums and historic sites and more. For more information, click here.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

St. Simons Island festival celebrates Gullah-Geechee culture

The Georgia coast boasts a fascinating history that spans hundreds, if not thousands, of years. During its recorded history, the flags of five nations have flown over here, reflecting exploration, settlement and occupation of the Georgia coast.

The coast also became home to another group of people who, while not here by choice, played a vitally important role in the development of our economy and culture. Their history and culture take center stage this weekend during the Georgia-Sea Islands Festival in Postell Park on St. Simons Island.


The festival is sponsored by the St. Simons Island African American Heritage Coalition, which is
dedicated to "Educate, Preserve, and Revitalize African American Heritage and Culture." Amy Roberts, executive director of the coalition, has been involved with the festival since the first event was held in 1978.

According to Roberts, the festival is a celebration of the Gullah-Geechee culture and language, a mix of English and West African dialects that was spoken by slaves who were brought to the area. It is still spoken in isolated areas of coastal South Carolina and Georgia, including Sapelo Island in McIntosh County.


The festival will showcase various crafts, art and traditional cooking. Handmade baskets, seine nets, music and dance will be displayed. Local and regional groups will perform, including Frankie Quimby and the Georgia Sea Island singers, the Gullah-Geechee Shouters from Darien, Michael Hulett from Brunswick and many others.


There also will be plenty of food, demonstrations by local crafters and information displays.


The Georgia Sea-Islands Festival takes place Saturday, June 12 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday, June 13 from noon to 6:00 pm. Admission is free.

Information source: The Brunswick News

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

'Hop and Go' Lighthouse trolley provides convenient way to visit St. Simons Island

Visitors to and residents of St. Simons Island have a new way to get around this summer, thanks to the Hop and Go Lighthouse Trolley. The new service provides a convenient way to get around the southern end of St. Simons Island without the hassles of driving. Just park the car, hop on and go! It's that easy.

According to Cap Fendig, trolley co-owner and St. Simons Island native, the trolley continues a tradition that began more than 100 years ago during St. Simons Island's earliest days as a resort destination.


"In the days before the causeway was built to St. Simons Island (1924), you came to the island by boat from Brunswick, you landed here in the village and you caught a rail car or trolley car -- or a jeep train, depending on the decade -- to your cottage or your hotel on East Beach," FendigSimons Island has not had a transit system where you can step on and off as you visit your favorite hotel, attraction or restaurant.

"We've seen the island experience tremendous growth, and we believe that St. Simons Island is now poised and ready for a transit service that will seven days a week, from 11:00 am to midnight."

Trolley service began Memorial Day weekend, though the idea has been kicked around for several years, Fendig says. "We negotiated a contract with the Coastal Georgia Historical Society in 2009, to operate a shuttle between the lighthouse and the maritime museum at East Beach, but did not proceed due to the economy. It's something I've wanted to do for them because of my family's long involvement with the maritime industry."


"It's something that Cap and I have discussed for a number of years," says Pat Morris, executive director of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. "We opened the maritime center in 2006 and needed a way to connect with the lighthouse. This will be the perfect avenue for people to visit the maritime center, do some time on the beach, visit the lighthouse and enjoy the village. It's going to be a great opportunity and a great system that the island has needed for a long time."




Two trolleys serve the island, with scheduled stops at the plaza near the St. Simons Island fishing pier, the lighthouse, King and Prince Hotel, the maritime museum at East Beach, and Redfern Village. Visitors can park their cars at St. Simons Elementary School on Ocean Blvd., and near the fire station on Demere Road and the trolley will pick them up and drop them off.

The trolleys also will stop at many hotels, condominiums and restaurants along the route; just wave for a pickup! Riders also can call to arrange pickups from Sea Palms Inn, Longview Shopping Center, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western or Epworth by the Sea. Just call 638-3333.


Fendig says the trolleys enjoyed a "fabulous" start during the first weekend. "We showed up with almost no notice on one of the busiest holiday weekends of the
year," he said. "It was a bit weak the first day but as soon as people realized the service is available, it exceeded our expectations. We even had guests from China, Peru, Colombia and England."

Trolley riders can purchase single-ride tickets or all-day passes. For a complete schedule, please visit Lighthouse Trolleys online.

Watch the video.

Monday, May 24, 2010

It's Fun to be a kid in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

Summer time is kid time, with long lazy days of sun-drenched fun and quiet evenings perfect for chasing lightning bugs, seeking sea turtles or just hanging out. With a treasure of kids summer camps, summer is even more fun in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. Camps cover a variety of topics ranging from theatre to soccer, gymnastics to golf, art to invention.

Here's a rundown on what's hot for kids this summer in Brunswick The Golden Isles of Georgia:


Brunswick Country Club Junior Golf Camp
. June 16-18, July 14-16, Aug. 11-13. Three-day sessions include morning golf lesson and lunch, for kids age 6 and up. Information: (912) 264-4377 or (912) 262-6068. Fee.

Hampton Club 2010 Junior Golf Clinic
. June 21-23, July 19-21, Aug. 2-4. Morning sessions at the King and Prince Golf Course at the Hampton Club on St. Simons Island. Open to all golfers ages 8-15, regardless of experience. Equipment will be provided for those who need it. Information: (912) 634-0255. Fee.

Kids Tennis Camps
. Learn fundamental tennis skills from tennis instructor Pride Evans. Racquets available. July 26-29 at Ballard Park in Brunswick; June 7-10 and July 26-29 at Mallery Park on St. Simons Island. Sessions 9:30 to 10:00 am for ages 4-6; 10:00 to 11:00 am for ages 7-10; 11:00 am to noon for ages 11-13. Information: (912) 279-2836 or (912) 554-7780 or visit www.glynncounty.org. Fee.

Golden Isles Gymnastics Summer Camp
. May 27-Aug. 17, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Open to children ages 4 and older, this camp features gymnastics, tumbling, dance, games, rock climbing, arts and crafts, movies, sports and more. No gymnastics experience is necessary. Campers may sign up by the day or the week. Information: (912) 280-0444 or visit www.goldenislesgym.com. Fee.

Big Horse Stable Summer Camp.
Dates to be determined. Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. Activities promote wellness, teamwork and responsibility. Classes include horseback riding, horse care and special activities including canoeing, tennis, karate and more. Information: (912) 778-7433 or visit www.bighorsestable.com. Fee.

Dance Intensive with Glenn Douglas Packard
. June 22 and 23 at Studio South on St. Simons Island. Glenn Douglas Packard has worked with a variety of A-list entertainers including Pink, Nelly Furtado, Usher and Missy Elliott, and was nominated for an Emmy for his artistic direction on Michael Jackson's 30th Anniversary Celebration at Madison Square Garden. He will host a two-day dance intensive for intermediate to advance dance students ages 8 and older. Information: (912) 264-6611. Fee.

Build Your Own Boot Camp.
Kids of all ages can design their own camp where they choose the classes. Activities and lessons in dance, tumbling, stretch and tone, aqua aerobic, Roomba, modeling, acting, nutrition, cooking and more. Christina's Dance World, St. Simons Island. Information: (912) 399-1417. Fee.

Summer Theatre Camps at the Ritz Theatre
Kids of all ages can learn the ins and outs of play production, from basic improvisation to presentation of a play. Discounts available for children attending two or more sessions.
  • On the Spot with Improv - June 7-8, 9:00 am to noon. Kids learn to "jump in and let go" using improvisation games. Open to all levels of experience. For ages 13-18.
  • Acting on the Stage - June 21 to July 2, 9:00 am to noon. Exploring the world of acting, participants will create and perform their own play. For ages 7-12.
  • On the Spot with Improv - Same as above, for younger participants ages 7-12.
  • The Play's the Thing - Students focus on developing acting skills including creating character, vocal techniques, etc. Open only to students with previous experience performing on stage, this session requires an audition and prior participation in summer theater camps or production experience. For students ages 10-18.
Information: (912) 262-6934 or visit www.goldenislesarts.org. Fee.

Clay and Collage.
- June 21-25; July 19-23; July 26-30. 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at Glynn Art Association, St. Simons Island. Children ages 7 and older will learn to create their own works of art using a variety of media. Information: (912) 638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org. Fee.

Color Me Happy Summer Camps
. During each session, kids ages 6 and older will create their own 16" X 20" acrylic painting on canvas, create objects with clay, sand art, pottery painting and glass fusing, and make their own tye-died t-shirt. Fee includes snacks and all materials. Sign up for two sessions and receive a discount on the third. Color Me Happy, downtown Brunswick.
  • Peace, Love and Happiness - June 8-11 or July 5-9, 10:00 am to noon.
  • Seeing Spots - June 15-18 or July 12-16, 10:00 am to noon.
  • All About Me - June 22-25 or July 19-22, 10:00 am to noon.
Information: (912) 554-1900 or visit www.colormehappypottery.com.

Camp Invention.
June 14-18, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Frederica Academy, St. Simons Island. In this fun and educational science camp for children entering grades 1-6, students build gadgets and learn physics through experiments and special projects. Information: (800) 968-4332 or visit www.campinvention.org.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Georgia Summer Camp 2010.
May 27 - Aug. 18, Monday-Friday 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Fee includes morning and afternoon snacks and lunch. Separate fees for field trips and most field trip not mandatory. Daily field trips will include Summer Waves water park, Savannah Sand Gnats baseball game, Jacksonville Zoo, Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, movies, swimming, bowling, picnics and more. Open to children ages 5 and older. Information: (912) 638-6639 or visit www.apositiveplace.net.

Y Kids Kampus 2010.
June 1 - Aug. 6, Mon.-Fri. 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, YWCA of Brunswick. Weekly themes include Sports of All Sorts, Junior Crime Scene Investigators, Animals A-Z, Ocean Odyssey and more. Field trips will include Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jacksonville Zoo, DNR Earth Day Nature Trail. Fee includes breakfast, lunch and snacks; separate fee for field trips. Open to children enrolled in pre-K through grade 5. Information: (912) 265-4100 or visit www.ywcabrunswickga.org.

College of Coastal Georgia Kids in College 2010.
Weekly programs June 7 - July 20, Mon. - Fri. 7:45 am to 3:00 pm at Risley Early College Academy, Brunswick. Weekly sessions open to children ages 6-12. Fee includes all supplies, t-shirt, lunch and a snack.
  • June 7-11: Pirates
  • June 14-18: Digital Photography (student must bring a digital camera)
  • June 21-25: Kids in College Idol
  • June 28-July 2: Crime Scene Investigators
  • July 5-9: Aviation and Weather
  • July 12-16: Arts and Crafts
  • July 19-23: Kids in College Play Sports
  • July 26-30: Mysteries of the Deep
Information: (912) 279-5777 or visit www.summerkidsincollege.com.

Frederica Academy Summer Programs 2010
. Weekly sessions Mon. - Fri., June 7 - Aug. 13. Morning sessions 9:00 am to noon; afternoon sessions 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Age-appropriate sessions cover a wide range of topics from American Girls to The Messy Class. Many physical education classes as well as art, drama and more. Fee. Information: (912) 638-9981, ext. 601 until June 4; (912) 638-9982 after June 4 or visit www.fredericaacademy.org.

To the Top Sports and Leadership Camp.
July 12-16, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 am to 7:00 pm Friday, at Oglethorpe Elementary School on St. Simons Island. Physical and spiritual challenges for students who have completed kindergarten through grade 5. Activities include basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball, extreme frisbee, capture the flag, obstacle course and more. Fee includes daily lunch, snacks, t-shirt, water bottle and journal. Information: (912) 571-1651 or visit www.tothetopministries.com.

Christian Montessori School Summer Camps 2010.
Weekly sessions from June 1 - July 30. Mon.-Fri. 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (no program July 5-9). Open to primary students ages 3-5, and elementary students in rising first through fifth grades. Age-appropriate programs and activities include reading fun, exercise, body care, cooking, languages, arts and crafts, sports, digital photography, scrapbooking and more. Fee includes snacks; students must bring their own lunch. Information: (912) 638-1692.

Note: Programs and information are subject to change. Please contact the individual providers to confirm dates and times.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Taps at Twilight a Memorial Day tradition on St. Simons Island

The Rotary Club of St. Simons Island presents its annual "Taps at Twilight" Memorial Day observance Monday, May 31, at 7:00 pm in Neptune Park on St. Simons Island.

Sam Nunn, former U.S. Senator from Georgia (1972-1997) will be the keynote speaker. Nunn served as chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services and is now head of the Nuclear Threat Initiative, which works to reduce threats of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. The program also will honor Medal of Honor winner, Col. Harvey Barnum, USMC (Ret.).


Patriotic music will be presented by the Golden Isles Community Concert Band under the direction of Mickey Wendell, and by soprano Rhonda Hambright, trumpeters Willie HGammett and Rich Wagner, and bagpiper Tim Akins. A color guard from U.S. Marine Corps Security Force Company, Kings Bay, will post the colors.


The program is free, a gift to the community from the Rotary Club of St. Simons Island.

* * *
THE HISTORY OF MEMORIAL DAY

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service.

There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with more than two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920).

While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868.

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

Source: Memorial Day History

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Library Film Series offers a maritime flavor

Since the beginning of time, the sea has fascinated us. The Arts are filled with stories, paintings, music and other works inspired by the world's oceans, their majesty, mystery, energy and sheer size. During June, the Three Rivers Regional Library in downtown Brunswick presents a series of films that highlights man's interaction with the sea and its inhabitants, real and imagined.

Three Rivers Regional Library Film Series - June

JUNE 1 - Whale Rider (2002). On the east coast of New Zealand, the Whangara people believe their presence there dates back a thousand years or more to a single ancestor, Paikea, who escaped death when his canoe capsized by riding to shore on the back of a whale. From then on, Whangara chiefs have always been the first-born and male. Many generations later, the contemporary tale revolves around a young mother whose male newborn twin dies in childbirth. Her young husband flees New Zealand in grief, leaving grandparents Koro and Nanny Flowers to raise the sole survivor, a feisty little girl named Pai, who radiates with life and energy. It's no wonder that her grandmother and the entire community love her, but alas, the grandfather she worships is too busy mourning the loss of the baby boy he expected would lead the tribe to better days. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.


JUNE 8 - 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954). This Disney version of Jules Verne's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea represented the studio's costliest and most elaborate American-filmed effort to date. Kirk Douglas plays a trouble-shooting 19th century seaman, trying to discover why so many whaling ships have been disappearing of late. Teaming with scientist Paul Lukas and diver Peter Lorre, Douglas sets sail to investigate--and is promptly captured by the megalomaniac Captain Nemo (James Mason), who skippers a lavish, scientifically advanced submarine. The film's special effects, including a giant squid, were impressive enough in 1954 to win an Academy Award.~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.


JUNE 15 - Lifeboat (1944). In this psychological drama by director Alfred Hitchcock, a chic writer, a stoker and others drift with the U-boat captain who has sunk their ship. Starring Tallulah Bankhead, William Bendix, Walter Slezak, Mary Anderson, John Hodiak, Canada Lee, Heather Angel, Henry Hull, Hume Cronyn, John Steinbeck, and William Yetter Jr. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.




JUNE 16 - The Little Mermaid (1989). In Disney's animated version of Hans Christian Anderson's classic tale, a mermaid named Ariel falls in love with an earthly prince. Featuring the voices of Jodi Benson, Christopher Daniel Barnes, Samuel E. Wright, Pat Carroll, Buddy Hackett, Jason Marin, Kenneth Mars, Rene Auberjonois, Paddi Edwards, Edie McClurg and Ben Wright. Screening at 2:00 pm.





JUNE 22 - Moby Dick (1956). The sole survivor of a lost whaling ship relates the tale of his captain's self-destructive obsession to hunt the white whale, Moby Dick. Cast includes Bernard Miles, Friedrich von Ledebur, Gregory Peck, Harry Andrews, James Robertson Justice, Leo Genn, Mervyn Johns, Orson Welles and Richard Basehart. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.


JUNE 23 - Free Willy (1993). Fishermen separate a young orca whale (Willy) from his parents and he ends up in a fish bowl at a marina. Meanwhile, a street kid runs afoul of the law and gets caught vandalizing the marina, but his social worker gets him off the hook (so to speak) provided he cleans up his mess at the marina. While there, he befriends the whale and teaches him tricks, something the trainer hasn't been able to do. But when Willy is a dud in front of the audience, the marina owner plans some bad things, and the boy and his friends must try to free Willy. Screening at 2:00 pm. Groups of 10 or more must preregister.

JUNE 24 - Mutiny on the Bounty (1935). Charles Laughton delivers an award-winning performance as the evil Captain Bligh, challenged by first mate Fletcher Christian, portrayed by Clark Gable.
Mutiny on the Bounty won the 1935 Academy Award for Best Picture and picked up a Leading Actor nomination for each of its male leads. Other cast members include Franchot Tone, Herbert Mundin, Eddie Quillan and Dudley Digges. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.




JUNE 29 - Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003). During the Napoleonic Wars, a brash British captain pushes his ship and crew to their limits in pursuit of a formidable French war vessel around South America. Starring Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, James D'Arcy, Edward Woodall, Chris Larkin and Max Pirkis. Screenings at 2:00 and 6:30 pm.








JUNE 30 - Finding Nemo (2003). In this animated Disney film, Marlin the clown fish teams up with Dory the forgetful blue tang, on an impossible mission to find and save his son, Nemo. Featuring the voices of Erica Beck, Albert Brooks, Willem Dafoe, Ellen DeGeneres and Brad Garrett. Screening at 2:00 pm. Groups of 10 or more must preregister.





Three Rivers Regional Library is located at 208 Gloucester Street in downtown Brunswick. For information, please call 912-267-1212 or visit them online.

Information and images: Flixter.com