Get Ready for Holiday Fun 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:

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 25 (Thanksgiving)

Holiday Party at Color Me Happy – After a day of feasting and football, gather up the family for an evening of old-fashioned fun. This is a great chance to create some unique Christmas gifts and save money at the same time! 6:00 to 9:00 pm. (912) 554-1900. www.colormehappypottery.com

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 26

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Brunswick – Live music, Santa Claus, and a reading of Dickens' "The Night Before Christmas" add up for a magical evening that is sure to warm your heart and get you into the holiday spirit. 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Jekyll Square on Newcastle Street. (912) 265-4032. www.brunswickgeorgia.net

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28

Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – Ring in the holiday season with holiday crafts, games, kids activities, Santa Claus and the lighting of the Jekyll Island Community Christmas Tree. 4:00 to 7:00 pm, National Historic Landmark District, Jekyll Island. (912) 635-3636.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 4

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 www.brunswickgeorgia.net.

First Friday Fun – Make an ornament or a bookmark for the holidays. 6:00 to 7:30 pm at the Brunswick Library, 208 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. (912) 267-1212. www.trrl.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 5

Annual Christmas Parade – Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. 10:00 am. (912) 265-4032. www.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. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934.

Gingerbread House-Making Workshop – Pastry chefs lead this 2-hour, family-friendly workshop. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club. Reservations: (912) 625-2600. www.jekyllclub.com.

Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit nine homes and a church in Old Town Brunswick. 1:00 to 6:00 pm. For information and tickets: (912) 280-0650 or (912) 275-7054.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 6

Handel's Messiah – 25th performance by 100-member community chorus representing more than two dozen area churches. 4:00 pm. Strickland Auditorium, Epworth by the Sea, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-5956 or (912) 554-1873.

DECEMBER 6 - 31

The Holidays in History – Tour cottages decorated for the season in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 11:00 am, 1:00 and 3:00 pm daily except Dec. 24 and 25. Admission. (912) 625-3636. www.jekyllisland.com.

MONDAY DECEMBER 7

Holiday Intermezzo – The Coastal Symphony of Georgia performs orchestral works by Tchaikovsky, Szewczyk and Brahms. 8:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, Brunswick. (912) 634-2006. www.coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org

SATURDAY DECEMBER 12

The Grand Victorian Tradition – Learn how to make traditional Victorian Christmas cards during this two-hour workshop. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club, Jekyll Island. Reservations: (912) 625-2600. www.jekyllclub.com.



Open House at the Lighthouse – Enjoy the lighthouse and keeper's dwelling, decked out in holiday splendor. Be sure to stop by Santa's Shop for unique holiday gifts. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, St. Simons Lighthouse and A.W. Jones Heritage Center, 12th and Beachview, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-4666. www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.


Holiday Family Fun Day – Healthy eating storytime by The Links at 10:45 am, ornament decorating by Color Me Happy at 11:00 am, and a holiday puppet show by Evy Wright of Curious Moon at 11:45 am. Brunswick Library, 208 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. (912) 267-1212 or www.trrl.org.

18th 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 www.glynnart.org.

25th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit seven homes with unique holiday decorating ideas. 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Tours begin at the historic tabby cabins at Gascoigne Bluff, St. Simons Island. Holiday bake sale at the cabins from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. For tickets and information: (912) 638-1527. www.cassinagardenclub.org

Especially for Children – An old-fashioned holiday get-together and festival. 1:00 to 5:00 pm, Mildred Huie Museum at Mediterranean House, 1819 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-3017 or www.leftbankgallery.com

Winter Farm Fest – Come play in the snow, ride the sleigh and run our holiday obstacle course. Three Oaks Stables, 332 Oyster Road, Brunswick. (912) 269-0623.

A Dickens Feast – Toast in the Boar's Head Lobby, holiday feast and musical dinner based on Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Jekyll Island. Reservations: (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 13

18th 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 www.glynnart.org.

Santa at Crane Cottage – St. Nick welcomes children to Crane Cottage in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. Photographer available for fee. 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com

Winter Concert – Coastal Youth Symphony of Georgia. 3:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, Brunswick. www.coastalgeorgiayouthsymphony.org


DECEMBER 18 - 20

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. Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934. www.goldenislesarts.org


DECEMBER 19-24

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 www.jekyllclub.com.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 23

Family Carol Sing – Join on the riverfront veranda of the Jekyll Island Club, to sing carols in Jekyll Island's National Historic Landmark District. Cookies and punch served afterward. 5:00 pm. Reservations: (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 25 – CHRISTMAS

TUESDAY DECEMBER 29

Tuesday Tea at Two – Meet and engage in casual conversation with Gallery 209's featured artists, while enjoying tea and delicacies prepared by Suzanne Scaglione. 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Art Downtown / Gallery 209, 209 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. Reservations: (912) 265-0628. www.artdowntowngallery209.com.

HOLIDAY ART EXHIBITS

A Holiday Feast for the Eyes – Selected paintings by gallery artists. Anderson Fine Art Gallery, 3309 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 634-8414 www.andersonfineartgallery.com

Holiday Festival of the Arts – Exhibits of plantation personalities by sculptor Mary Whitty, paintings of the 13 original plantations of St. Simons Island, and holiday cards and paintings by Glenda Cason. Left Bank Art Gallery, 3600 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-3017. www.leftbankartgallery.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.

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!

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Coastal festival is for the birds ... and bird lovers

Coastal Georgia is known for many things, not the least of which is the abundance of birds that make their homes here. With its vast network of rivers, marshes and barrier islands, Brunswick and The Golden Isles provide habitats for hundreds of species of birds.

Learn all about them and other coastal wildlife at the Coastal Birding and Nature Festival, Oct. 8-12. This year's festival includes a great variety of field trips and seminars, led by birding and nature exhibits from throughout the U.S. This year's keynote speaker will be Dr. Don Kroodsma, who will share the glories of "The Singing Life of Birds."

Nature Day, Sat. Oct. 10 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, will include raptor shows, kids art activities, exhibitors, and more. Several area hotels are offering special rates for festival attendees. For more information, visit http://www.coastalgeorgiabirding.org/index.html

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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.

Celebrate coastal history, culture at Glynn Art Fall Festival

Celebrate coastal Georgia history and culture, and enjoy contemporary works by many of the region's best artists and craftspeople, at the 40th Annual Golden Isles Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11, in Postell Park on Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island.

In addition to featuring works by more than 15o artists, the Association will present a program of Gullah-Geechee performances, workshops, demonstrations and storytelling. The McIntosh County Shouters, Gospel Messengers, Georgia Sea Island Singers, Youth Praise Group and storyteller Cornelia Bailey will entertain and educate during performances Saturday.

Yvonne Grovner, Master Basket Weaver, and Stanley Walker, Master Net Maker, will conduct workshops and demonstrations throughout the day. There also will be a special presentation by Denise White Fields of the African American Museum. Participating artists will exhibit in one of two categories:

• FINE ARTS/GRAPHICS: Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor, Pastel, Charcoal, Pencil, Pen & Ink, Printmaking, Mixed Media, Photography

• FINE CRAFTS: Glass, Jewelry (be specific), Leather, Metal, Pottery/Sculpture, Wood, Textiles, Fiber, Baskets, Wearable Art

This show is a juried event with cash awards for Best of Show, first, second, and third in each category.

Show hours are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm each day. For more information, call Glynn Art Association at 912-638-8770 or visit them online.

Stewbilee Rocks Downtown Brunswick Saturday Oct. 10

October is Festival Month in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia, with festivals, art shows and special events nearly every weekend this month. This coming weekend is no exception, as downtown Brunswick gears up for the fifth annual Brunswick Stewbilee at Mary Ross Waterfront Park.

This traditional small-town festival brings together a lot of big-town talent to compete in the annual Brunswick Stew cookoff. More than 60 teams, representing local and regional corporations, government agencies, civic groups and other organizations, will face off in "Peoples' Choice" and professionally judged competition, for the honor of having their concoctions named "Best Brunswick Stew." Teams also will be judged for having the most creative presentation in their booths.


Saturday’s events begin at 8:00 am with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Georgia 5K Freedom Run. This is the first year for the Club to handle the logistics of the Run. Interested runners and walkers can register online at www.brunswickstewbilee.com. Proceeds from the Run benefit local programs for the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia.

The Pooch Parade is being organized by the Brunswick Women’s Club. All area pooches are invited to put on their finest dogwear and enter their owners in the parade. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes, and all registration money for the parade goes to local animal control and the Humane Society.

The Brunswick Stew Tasting Contest begins at 11:30 a.m. as more than 60 teams vie for top honors of the tastiest stew. Brunswick, Ga. "The Brunswick Kiwanis Club is again excited to work with many other community groups and businesses to bring a world-class event to Brunswick," said Shaw McVeigh, of the Brunswick Kiwanis Club, which organizes the stew tasting contest. “If you have a Brunswick stew that always receives praise, then we encourage you to come to our area and size it up against some stiff competition.”

Festival goers will have many activities from which to choose as they enjoy the Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee, including a classic car and motorcycle show, arts and crafts, and the ever popular "Junior Stewbie" fun zone for kids. Local and regional bands, including Malarkey, Marshgrass Bluegrass, WharfRatz, StringRays, OSKAR Rockhammer, and Dennis and the Menace, will perform in a free open-air concert throughout the day.

The Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee is sponsored by Southeast Georgia Health System, The Brunswick News, Golden Isles Broadcasting, Comcast, H20 Creative Group, Brunswick Kiwanis Club and the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds from the event support local charities including Boys & Girls Club of the Golden Isles, animal control, the Humane Society, and the United Way of Coastal Georgia. For more information on the Stewbilee, visit www.brunswickstewbilee.com.

Come Play! at CoastFest 2009

Birds of prey! A magician! Indian Legend and Lore! Face painting! Hurricanes, Floods and Weather!

These are but a few of the things awaiting your exploration, at CoastFest 2009, Saturday Oct. 3 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at Coastal DNR headquarters in Brunswick.

Sponsored by the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources/Coastal Resources Division, CoastFest is Georgia's largest educational event, celebrating our state's coastal environment. More than 70 coastal environmental and educational organizations will join DNR to showcase our unique coastal habitat, its wild residents, and the various things that affect it.

See live native reptiles, raptors, amphibians, fish and more. Build a birdhouse … or a terrarium. Watch performances by Native American Indians. Be a magician's assistant for some amazing science projects. Watch as a sand sculptor creates a sand castle from 16 TONS of sand!

In addition to fascinating programs and displays, there will be kids' art activities, a cannon firing demonstration, the annual CoastFest Student Art exhibit, Creek Indian encampment, nature walks along the Earth Day Nature Trail, face painting, reef ball painting, a scavenger hunt, touch tanks and living history demonstrations.

Admission to CoastFest is free. The DNR Coastal Resources Headquarters are located at Conservation Way at US Highway 17 South, near the north end of the Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick. For more information, call 912-264-7218 or visit Coastal Georgia DNR online.

CoastFest is sponsored by the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources / Coastal Management Program and made possible through a grant provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

October filled with festivals, special events in Brunswick and The Golden Isles

October delivers a wealth of annual festivals and special events to Brunswick and The Golden Isles, with activities taking place nearly every weekend. Here's a rundown of things to come:

Oct 2 First Friday Promenade. Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. Enjoy live music, a wine-tasting, refreshments and more at shops and restaurants along historic Newcastle Street. Sponsored by Downtown Development Authority/Historic Brunswick Business Association. 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Call 912-279-2603 or visit www.brunswickgeorgia.net 

Oct 3-4 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. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Call 912-264-3254 or visit www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Oct. 3 Dept. of Natural Resources Coastfest. CoastFest is Georgia's largest organized celebration of the the state's rich and vast coastal natural resources. Held annually on the first Saturday of October, this day-long educational festival is a free, highly interactive event for the entire family. Hosted by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Coastal Resources Division, CoastFest takes place at the division's headquarters along the Marshes of Glynn in Brunswick, Georgia. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Call 912-264-7218 or visit www.coastalgadnr.org/

Oct 8-12 Colonial Coast Nature and Birding 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. For information call 912-635-3636 or visit www.coastalgeorgiabirding.org

Oct 10-11 Annual October Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. Celebrate coastal Georgia’s Gullah-Geechee heritage through special performances, demonstrations and workshops. Performers and participating artists will include the McIntosh County Shouters, Gospel Messengers, storyteller David Pleasant, basket weavers Yvonne Grovner and Stanley Walker, and works by 150 artists from throughout the southeast. Postell Park, Pier Village area, St. Simons Island. Sponsored by the Glynn Art Association. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Call 912-638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org 

Oct 16-17 Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee. Enjoy a taste of the Georgia Coast during this traditional small-town celebration in historic downtown Brunswick. The day begins with a road race and pet parade. Throughout the day, local teams compete to see who can prepare the “Best Brunswick Stew” in judged and people’s choice competition, and local bands provide the entertainment. Mary Ross Park, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Call 912-265-4032 or visit www.brunswickstewbilee.com 

Oct 22-23 Write to Inspire: A Spiritual / Inspirational Writing Workshop. Featuring Cecil Murphey, author of “90 Minutes in Heaven;” Marjorie Wentworth, Poet Laureate of South Carolina; and Holly McClure, author and storyteller. Epworth by The Sea, St. Simons Island. Optional Sunday critique and workshop session available for extra charge. For information call 912-638-8688 or visit www.epworthbythesea.org 

Oct 30-31 Georgia-Florida Weekend. Members of the "Bulldawg Nation" descend upon Brunswick and The Golden Isles in preparation for the annual faceoff with the Florida Gators in Jacksonville.

This is just a partial listing of activities taking place throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles. For a complete listing, be sure to visit our online Calendar of Events. Also be sure to visit the Special Offers page for information about hotel discounts, packages and other special incentives for travelers!

All images: Copyright 2009, Brunswick and The Golden Isles CVB

Museums and Historic Sites offer free admission during Museum Day Sept. 26

Selected museums and historic sites throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles will offer free admission and special programs during the fifth annual Museum Day, Saturday Sept. 26. Participating sites will include:

BRUNSWICK

• Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site

ST. SIMONS ISLAND

• Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum

• Fort Frederica National Monument

• Maritime Museum at the Historic Coast Guard Station

• Mildred Huie Plantation Museum

JEKYLL ISLAND

• Jekyll Island Museum and National Historic Landmark District

Museum Day visitors to Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site will have an opportunity to work on a special service project to beautify the park entrance. The former rice plantation offers more than 1,000 acres that include eight historic structures, antebellum plantation house with original furnishings, visitor center and museum, four miles of trails, marsh overlook and picnic area. The site is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Fort Frederica National Monument presents "Frederica Foodways: 18^th Century Cooking" throughout the day. Costumed historical interpreters will demonstrate the ways in which early Georgians prepared and preserved a variety of foods. The town of Frederica was founded by General Oglethorpe in 1736, three years after the founding of Savannah. Park ranger-led tours and soldier/colonial life programs throughout the year recall life in Georgia's second town. The site's Visitor Center offers "History Uncovered," a 23-minute orientation film, and various exhibits that portray colonial life. The visitor center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The Maritime Museum at the Historic Coast Guard Station offers an exciting look at coastal Georgia's natural assets as well as the area's maritime and military history. Seven galleries feature a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities that explore topics ranging from life in a working Coast Guard Station to coastal weather, wildlife and archaeology. The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

At the Mildred Huie Plantation Museum, you'll learn about plantation life on St. Simons Island, though detailed models of plantation homes and paintings by artist Mildred Huie. Sculptor Mary Whitty will display her likenesses of St. Simons Island's earliest residents and visitors, including John Couper, Aaron Burr, Neptune Small and other plantation people. At 3:00 pm, the museum will unveil a 52" X 137" mural depicting St. Simons Island and its landmarks. Created in 1980 by Mildred Huie, the mural was thought to have been lost. It was found at the Old Plantation Supper Club, which closed in 2000. The Mildred Huie Plantation Museum is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm and at other times by appointment.

The Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum, at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island, will conduct a rare book sale during Museum Day. Offerings will include histories, biographies, religion and devotional classics including works by Georgia authors. The Moore Methodist Museum highlights St. Simons Island's plantations as well as Methodist history, through a variety of exhibits, video and an interactive display. The museum also features an unusual collection of nativity scenes from around the world. It is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The Jekyll Island Museum and National Historic Landmark District will offer free admission for visitors that present the Museum Day Admission Card from www.smithsonian.com, and reduced admission for others. From 1887 to 1942, Jekyll Island was once an exclusive winter retreat for some of America’s wealthiest families. The Jekyll Island Club counted among its members such men as J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, Joseph Pulitzer and other industrial and financial leaders of their day. They created a complex that included a grand clubhouse (now the Jekyll Island Club Hotel), a collection of “cottages” and a variety of support structures, which are now part of the National Historic Landmark District.

Museum Day is sponsored by Smithsonian Magazine. The program is designed to reflect the spirit of the magazine and emulate the free-admission policy of the Smithsonian Institution's Washington, DC-based properties. During Museum Day, museums and cultural sites offer free admission to Smithsonian readers and Smithsonian.com visitors.

To receive free admission to participating museums and historic sites, visit www.smithsonian.com/museumday to download a free Museum Day Admission Card. Attendees must present the Museum Day Admission Card to gain free entry to participating institutions. Each card provides museum access for two people, and one admission card is permitted per household. Listings and links to participating museums can be found at www.smithsonian.com/museumday.

CVB offers smart options for savings-savvy tour operators

BRUNSWICK AND THE GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA – For savings and great group tour options, look no further than the Georgia coast. That's the message from Brunswick and The Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau, which encourages tour operators to bring their groups to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia.

"For smart, savvy, savings-minded tour operators, there's never been a better time to visit Georgia. And some of the smartest places to visit are right here on our coast," the CVB advises in a new marketing campaign.

To encourage tour operators to consider Brunswick and The Golden Isles, the CVB has launched a "Name Your Rates and Dates" program for groups that book accommodations between now and March 2010. Participants are asked to contact the CVB with the size of their group and their desired rates and dates. They will receive information and offers from area hotels and resorts that match their specifications.

Brunswick and The Golden Isles – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island – offer a great array of group-friendly recreational and cultural activities, fascinating historic sites and attractions, and a great selection of accommodations that range from convenient Interstate hotels to full-service island resorts and bed-and-breakfast inns.

Brunswick and The Golden Isles' convenient location – just minutes from I-95 at Georgia Exits 29, 26, 38 and 42, make it an ideal "hub and spoke" destination for day trips to other popular coastal Georgia attractions, from Savannah to St. Marys and the Okefenokee Swamp.

"Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia offer significant economic advantages for tour operators who seek fun and memorable activities for their groups," says Bill Tipton, CVB executive director. "Our sales team will gladly help you plan an itinerary that is custom-tailored to your groups' needs and interests, from golf outings to educational visits and special-interest tours."

Brunswick and The Golden Isles CVB offers a free Group Tour Planning Guide, which includes comprehensive information about area attractions and activities, dining options, accommodations and sample itineraries. To request a copy or for information about the "Name Your Rates and Dates" program, contact Brunswick and The Golden Isles CVB toll-free at 800-809-1790 or visit them online at ComeCoastAwhile.com. Or send an email to: info@ComeCoastAwhile.com

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For "SMART" meetings, come to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

For savings and great meeting options, look no further than the Georgia coast. That's the message from the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau, which encourages meeting planners to conduct their business gatherings here in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia.

In a new marketing campaign, the CVB advises, "For smart, savvy, savings-minded meeting planners, there's never been a better time to meet in Georgia. And some of the smartest places to meet are right here on our coast.

To encourage meetings in Brunswick and the Golden Isles, the CVB has launched a "Name Your Rates and Dates" program for groups that book meetings between now and March 2010. Participants are asked to contact the CVB with the size of their group and their desired rates and dates. They will receive information and offers from area hotels and resorts that match their specifications.

Brunswick and the Golden Isles – St . Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island – offer more than 120,000 square feet of meeting and function space in a great variety of settings, from full-service resorts and hotels to conference and convention centers, public buildings and historic settings," says CVB executive director Bill Tipton. "We can easily accommodate groups from 12 to 2,000 or more at a variety of affordable rates, and with programs that are as simple or as lavish as they desire."

Corporations, government agencies, associations and other types of organizations everywhere have become very sensitive about where they conduct their meetings, conventions, retreats and other business functions." Cost is certainly in issue in the current economy, but public perception has also become an important element in the decision-making process. We want to remind meeting planners that there are many, many great options throughout the state for memorable and affordable meetings, especially here in Brunswick and the Golden Isles."

For information about the "Name Your Rates and Dates" program, contact Brunswick and The Golden Isles CVB toll-free at 800-809-1790 or visit them online at ComeCoastAwhile.com. Or send an email to: info@ComeCoastAwhile.com

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MEDIA CONTACT: Patrick Saylor

Faulkenberry Certain
Direct phone: 912-638-7770
Mobile: 912-230-5030
Email: psaylor@ComeCoastAwhile.com

Color Me Happy: It's Not Your Mother's Ceramics Shop

When I was kid there was a ceramics shop across the street, in what had once been a corner grocery store. I don’t know which fascinated me more: the fact that there was a real store across the street from my house, or the white ceramic treasures displayed in its big shop window.

What I do know was this: It was not the kind of place any self-respecting boy would venture into or be seen in. That stuff was for girls. We boys were too busy tearing around the neighborhood on our bikes, playing Batman, Green Hornet or whatever TV hero was currently hip.

Besides, I was never good at artsy-craftsy stuff. Like many children of the 50s and 60s, I received my share of paint-by-numbers kits and other similar items for birthdays and Christmas gifts. My paintings never looked like the ones on the box; they more closely resembled the works of abstract expressionists than the Renaissance masters.

Enter Meghan Davis at Color Me Happy studio in downtown Brunswick. She and her mom, Lois Spinner Henry, opened their studio four years ago on Newcastle Street. The place has been jumping ever since.

“We offer a lot more than ceramics painting,” Meghan explained. “We also offer glass fusing. Most men really like that because they get to wear goggles and use tools.”

Glass fusing. Glass. Tools. Goggles. Fire. Real manly man stuff. “Sounds like fun,” I thought.

Megan invited me to come by the shop and see for myself. Color Me Happy was having a “Paint ‘Til You Faint” party that night to raise funds for the annual Relay for Life. It sounded like an excellent introduction to the modern world of ceramics painting and glass fusing.

When I arrived, the party was in full swing. Led Zeppelin was playing on the stereo, and four women were at a table painting serving dishes and sharing a bottle of wine. The place was packed with women, some girls and even a couple of men. There was a wonderful selection of hors d’oeuvres and liquid refreshments.

This was a long way from the ceramic shop on Marshall Avenue.

Meghan Davis opened the first Color Me Happy studio five years ago in Bremen, GA outside Atlanta. In fall 2005, Meghan and her husband learned they were expecting their first child and decided to return to her hometown, Brunswick. She and her mom, Lois Henry, joined forces and opened their door on Newcastle Street in October that year.

In addition to ceramics painting, Color Me Happy offers the aforementioned glass fusing. Create your own stuffed animal in The Bear Factory, or make your own tie-died shirt. Meghan and Lois offer a great variety of custom painted items in addition to the traditional “paint your own” pottery. The creative possibilities are nearly endless. You can make it yourself (they’ll show you how), or they’ll do it for you. If it’s glass or ceramic and it can be fired, this is the place to be.

Oh, and that business about being just for girls? Forget it. Color Me Happy truly has something for everyone. Kids parties. Office parties. Girls Nights Out. Wedding showers. Bridal luncheons. Summer art classes. The first and third Fridays of each month are Ladies Nights. Lois and Meghan provide the chocolate and the venue; you bring your friends, a beverage of your choice and a creative spirit. They even serve pizza.

Meghan was right about glass fusing. I got to work with tools and melt stuff. I made a rendering of the St. Simons Lighthouse with various bits of flat glass, glass rods and this crushed glass sprinkly stuff in jars. It was a lot less messy than the “Thingmaker” I had when I was a kid, and was probably a lot safer.

And though it’s far from the Renaissance masters, my little glass picture actually resembles the lighthouse. There may be hope for me yet.

Color Me Happy is at 1426 Newcastle Street in downtown Brunswick. Meghan and Lois are generally there Tuesday-Friday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Call them at 912-554-1900 or visit them online.

Beach Week in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

With summer in full swing, Georgia beaches are top destinations for visitors and residents. During the fourth annual Beach Week, they'll be able to learn all about this fragile environment and its inhabitants and ways in which they can help protect and preserve it for future generations.

Beginning Tuesday, June 30, staff from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources/Coastal Resources Division (CRD) and other coastal organizations will be available to answer questions and talk with beachgoers on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. The Coastal Ark, CRD's 30-foot mobile educational unit, will showcase activities, information and materials covering a wide array of subjects including beach water quality, sand dollar stewardship and protecting sand dunes.

CRD staffers will be joined by representatives from Georgia DNR/Law Enforcement Division, Tidelands Nature Center, Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary, Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, University of Georgia Marine Extension Service/Oyster Enhancement Program and the GEMA Coastal Hurricane Program.

The highlight of Beach Week 2009 will be the live displays and their connection to Coastal Georgia.

“Our goal is to educate people about what they will see at the beach and why good stewardship of this resource is so important,” explains Coastal Ark Coordinator Jennifer Kline.

Beach Week Schedule of Events

DatennnnnnnnnnnnnLocation

Tuesday, June 30nnnnSt. Simons Island - Beach access at the historic
nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnCoast Guard Station

Wednesday, July 1nnnJekyll Island - Bathhouse Pavilion area near the
nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnConference Center

Thursday, July 2nnnnnSt. Simons Island - Beach access at the historic
nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnCoast Guard Station

Hours at all locations will be 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

For more information about the Coastal Ark and Beach Week, visit Georgia DNR/CRD online.

Whimsical Calendar wins national award

A limited edition calendar commissioned by the Brunswick and The Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau has been recognized in national and international competition by the Calendar Marketing Association.

The calendar, created by international calendar artist and St. Simons Island resident Pilliard Dickle, received a Gold Award for "Most Original Promo" in the 2009 World and National Calendar Awards. The annual competition is open to all those involved in the production, distribution and marketing of calendars - advertising agencies, artists, designers, photographers, printers, publishers, etc.

The calendar, created especially for the CVB, shows Brunswick and The Golden Isles - St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island - through the eyes of Dickle, known around the world for his portrayals of "Calendaria," a fanciful land of castles, airships, pyramids, flying houses and more, where everyday locations become years and common objects become months and days.

"Pilliard's calendars have a wonderful charm, with their whimsical portrayals of everyday scenes and bright colors," explained Bill Tipton, executive director of the CVB. "We are pleased and flattered that an artist of his stature agreed to create this original work of art just for us, and excited to receive this additional recognition."

The calendar was created especially for travel writers, meeting planners, and group tour operators, as a unique reminder to consider Brunswick and The Golden Isles as a subject for travel articles, and as a destination for meetings, tours, reunions and other gatherings. The calendar was mailed to more than 1,000 individuals in January; many calendars were numbered and signed by the artist, increasing their value as collectibles.

"We received a lot of positive comments from travel writers and others who received the calendar," Tipton said. "It reminds people in a fun way that Brunswick and the Golden Isles are a great place to visit and conduct business meetings. We consider it be a very successful promotion in that regard, and are pleased that the Calendar Marketing Association agrees."

Brunswick and The Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Glynn County, Georgia including the City of Brunswick, Georgia and four barrier islands: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

The CVB's mission is to create awareness of and interest in Brunswick & The Golden Isles of Georgia as a destination for vacations, meetings and group visits. This is done through an array of programs and initiatives that include paid advertising, public relations, sales and marketing, a comprehensive area web site and operating three area welcome centers. For information, call toll-free 800-933-COAST (2627) or visit them online at www.ComeCoastAwhile.com

Pilliard Dickle, aka Joe Chandler, is an internationally known artist who lives on St. Simons Island. His calendars have won the World Calendar Award from The Calendar Marketing Association. A collection of his calendars has been published as a book, The Calendar World of Pilliard Dickle (Longstreet Press, Atlanta). Thanks to favorable reviews by such luminaries as David Letterman and Gene Shalit, Dickle has built a solid base of fans that eagerly await his yearly calendar creation. To learn more about Pilliard and Calendaria, visit www.PilliardDickle.com

The Calendar Marketing Association is the only worldwide trade association for the calendar industry. Based in Wheaton, IL, the CMA was founded in 1989 to represent the interests of designers, marketers, publishers, printers and suppliers of both retail and custom calendars. For information, visit www.calendarassociation.org.

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