Brunswick and The Golden Isles featured on DiscoverAmerica.com

Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island – are featured on DiscoverAmerica.com, a new web site that is designed to encourage Americans to discover and travel within their own country.

DiscoverAmerica.com was launched by the U.S. Travel Association to help Americans learn about domestic travel destinations and activities.

The site includes an interactive map that gives mileage from city to city, and an activity finder that lists more than 3,000 experiences, attractions and events, including museums, gardens, ski slopes, festivals and parks. The site also offers links to tourism information for all 50 states, as well as for more than 100 cities and other destinations, and includes content from the National Park Service, the National Scenic Byways program and useful Web sites like GoogleMaps and Weather.com.

The site offers photo galleries organized by location, with pictures of everything from a historic district in New Braunfels, Texas to wild horses in North Carolina's Currituck Outer Banks, to the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway in the Shasta Cascade region of California, to Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. Visitors can also upload their own images and comments about places they've been by clicking on the "Stories" link at DiscoverAmerica.com.

"DiscoverAmerica.com is the latest in a series of online media outlets that feature content related to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia," explains Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau. "In addition to our official website, ComeCoastAwhile.com, we are distributing online information via a .mobi site, a blog and on several social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Squidoo.

"It's all part of an aggressive effort to promote Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia as a preferred destination for families, groups, meetings, reunions, weddings and other facets of tourism and travel. It's a relatively low-cost way to promote our area, with the potential to connect with millions of prospective visitors."

U.S. Travel is a private agency authorized by the U.S. Commerce Department to develop and market an official travel planning web site targeting the top five international markets that send visitors to the U.S. — Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Japan and Germany. Launching DiscoverAmerica.com for domestic travelers was an outgrowth of U.S. Travel's outreach to international visitors.

Brunswick & The Golden Isles of Georgia – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island – are located on the Georgia coast just minutes from I-95 at Exits 29, 36, 38 and 42. Visitor information, including discounts and other special offers by area hotels, attractions and restaurants, can be found online at ComeCoastAwhile.com. For information “on the go,” text BGIGA to 95495 or go to ComeCoastAwhile.mobi on your web-enabled phone or PDA.

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The Weather Channel chooses Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia to launch 'Great Escapes' Week

Brunswick & The Golden Isles travel features kicked off the Weather Channel's "Great Escapes Week" on Monday, May 4, with live broadcasts that originated from the waterfront in the St. Simons Island Village. Throughout the day, Weather Channel reporter Natalie Allen introduced six different feature segments, which spotlight many aspects of our area. There was even a segment about Cumberland Island.

Segments featured interviews with Michael Johnson, general manager of the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort and chairman of the Brunswick-Golden Isles CVB; Samuel Arbo, a 16-year resident of St. Simons Island; and John Hunter, director of the Jekyll Island Museum. Scenes included the St. Simons Island beach, fishing pier, crabbing, John Gilbert Nature Trail, Jekyll Island historic district, and the Emerald Princess II casino cruise ship.

The Weather Channel's visit was coordinated by the Brunswick-Golden Isles CVB, 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.

"We really appreciated the opportunity to work with The Weather Channel on this project and we thank Patrick Saylor, Faulkenberry Certain Advertising, and Mary Butin of The Butin Group for all their on-site efforts," said Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The Weather Channel segments can be viewed from the CVB's official website, ComeCoastAwhile.com.

Brunswick & The Golden Isles of Georgia – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island – are located on the Georgia coast just minutes from I-95 at Exits 29, 36, 38 and 42. Visitor information, including discounts and other special offers by area hotels, attractions and restaurants, can be found online at ComeCoastAwhile.com. For information “on the go,” text BGIGA to 95495 or go to ComeCoastAwhile.mobi on your mobile phone.

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Georgia Voyager Magazine launches new online publication

Georgia Voyager Magazine has launched its first online issue, according to editor and publisher Cathy Hodge. The online magazine features "page-flipping" technology that replicates the look and feel of the printed version, as well as links to featured attractions, sound files and more.

"The special features of our new online publication make it fun for adults to read, and provide interactivity for children," Hodge explained. "Among other things, there are links to learn more about historic sites and educational places to visit, and downloadable contests, games and educational activities."

The current issue includes features about Georgia's Fall Line, Georgia's prehistoric peoples, the Civil War in Georgia, The Great Locomotive Chase, Famous Georgia Women, and more.

Now in its 13th year, Georgia Voyager was created for children who requested information about the state during the 1996 Summer Olympics. In 2000 the magazine won the Georgia Outstanding Program of the Year award from the Georgia Council of the Social Studies. Since its founding more than 2 million copies of the quarterly magazine have been distributed to Georgia teachers and school children.

The Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau is a proud sponsor of Georgia Voyager Magazine and its programs, including the annual Georgia History Essay Contest for Georgia students in grades 4-12. Essays are judged by a panel of historians, teachers and others, and the winners are announced during a special Georgia History Day ceremony at the state capitol in Atlanta.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau also has partnered with Georgia Voyager to offer educational study tour programs designed to meet the needs of every school and youth group. Standards-based lesson plans are available for students in grades 4 through high school, and include pre- and post-visit classroom activities which are tied to the latest state and national educational performance standards in history, geography, economics, science and language arts.

These programs are offered through a special teacher planning guide developed by the CVB and Georgia Voyager.

According to Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau, the educational travel planner has been very well received by Georgia teachers. "We've been extremely pleased with the response that we've gotten to the planner," Tipton

The travel planner is available free of charge from the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau. Call 800-809-1790 to request a copy. Or, you can download a copy of the guide from the CVB's official website. explained. "Because of our natural environment and variety of attractions, museums and historic sites Brunswick and the Golden Isles are an ideal destination for educational field trips."

A Taste of Glynn: An Evening with the area's Best Chefs

Chefs from throughout Brunswick and the Golden Isles are polishing up their utensils and getting ready for "A Taste of Glynn," Sunday March 29 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort on St. Simons Island. This annual fundraiser benefits the Amity House women's shelter in Brunswick, and provides a wonderful opportunity for area restaurants and caterers to show off their skills and their signature dishes.

The event takes place on the lawn of the King and Prince, right next to the water – a perfect venue for an event that typically attracts 1,000 to 1,200 people for an evening of culinary delights, silent auctions and live entertainment.

"It's definitely one of the major social events of the year," says Sherry Ellis, co-chair of the Taste of Glynn Committee. "We've had many people tell us that A Taste of Glynn is the kickoff for the spring social season."

Twenty-five restaurants and caterers will compete for awards in judged and People's Choice competitions. Awards will be presented various food categories including appetizers, desserts, seafood, etc. An award also will be given for overall presentation.

"The level of presentation seems to get better each year," Ellis says. "It has really become a lot of fun, with a lot creativity in serving containers, decorating and more.

"Our local restaurants and caterers take this very seriously, and there is a great level of competition among them. The winners proudly display their awards, and feature their winning items in their menus."

Great food is only part of the experience. This year, A Taste of Glynn will feature live entertainment by three different performing groups – "Three of Us," "The Not Brothers" and jazz saxophonist Michael Hulett.

One of the highlights of the event is the Platinum Silent Auction. This year's auction includes vacation trips to Duck and Murphy, NC as well as South Beach in Miami; a "Dessert of the Month" package; a women's bike and a platinum and diamond ring, among others. And, of course, there will be the traditional wine raffle.

Ellis is pleased to announce the release of a brand new "Taste of Glynn" cookbook, which will make its debut at this year's event. "It includes 400 recipes from chefs and caterers that have taken part in A Taste of Glynn over the past nine years," she explained. "It has absolutely gorgeous photos of many of the dishes, and is beautifully done. It will make a very nice gift for anyone who likes to cook or just collect cookbooks."

A Taste of Glynn is presented by Moore Stephens Tiller, LLC and MST Wealth Management, LLC, as well as 20 area businesses and individuals. Special thanks to the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort for their very generous support of the event.

Tickets are $40 per person in advance, or $50 at the door. They can be purchased by calling Amity House (912) 264-1348 or picking them up at Moore Stephens Tiller and MST Wealth Management Brunswick Office,The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, or SunTrust Bank on Demere Road St. Simons Island.

SHUTTLE SERVICE FOR A TASTE OF GLYNN
Free shuttle service for A Taste of Glynn patrons will be provided from Masengale Park on Ocean Boulevard, St. Simons Island, to the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort. Shuttle service will begin at 3:30 pm and end at 8:30 pm.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS AND CATERERS

• Bennie's Red Barn, St. Simons Island
• Blackwater Grill, St. Simons Island
• Bonefish Grill, St. Simons Island
• Millhouse Steakhouse, Brunswick
• Cargo Portside Grill, Brunswick
• Coastal Kitchen, St. Simons Island
• 4th of May Cafe, St. Simons Island
• Georgia Sea Grill, St. Simons Island
• Gourmet to You, by Tanya
• Jekyll Island Club Hotel
• J Macs, St. Simons Island
• Los Arcos, Brunswick
• Palm Coast Coffee, St. Simons Island
• Purple Sage Catering
• Red Red Swine
• Sea Palms Resort, St. Simons Island
• Smokey Joe's BBQ, Brunswick
• Southern Soul, St. Simons Island
• Southeast Georgia Health System, Brunswick
• Straton Hall Catering and Special Events
• Tasteful Temptations
• The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, St. Simons Island
• Wee Pub, Brunswick

Photo Credit: Lindy Thompson, Golden Isles Photography

Taking Your Animal to the Beach

Many pet owners consider their animals to be members of the family, welcome to participate in most family activities, including travel.

A trip to the beach can be a very rewarding way to spend quality time with your pet. It is important to remember, however, that the beach is shared with other people, pets, and wildlife. Here are some helpful questions and answers to help make your -- and your pet's -- beach visit as pleasant as possible.


Is my pet allowed on the beach?

Ordinances regarding animals on the beach vary widely. Most Georgia beach communities require that animals be kept off the beach during certain hours of the day and/or certain times of the year. Some only allow dogs on specific beaches, some allow horses and others have banned animals altogether. All require that your animal remain on a leash and under your control.

Violators risk being fined, so it is best to check local laws before bringing along your animal companion. Here are the ordinances for beaches in Brunswick and The Golden Isles:

• St. Simons Island Animals are allowed on the beach until 9:00 am and after 6:00 pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day, from First Street/East Beach (Coast Guard Station) south to Mallery Street (the pier). Animals on leashes (max. 10 feet) are permitted on the beach north of the Coast Guard Station year-round at any time.

• Jekyll Island Animals must be on a leash or reins and are permitted on the beach.

Why does my animal need to be on a leash?

In areas that animals are allowed they must be kept on leash. This is for your animal's safety and for the safety of other beachgoers and wildlife.

While we all like to think that our dogs are well mannered, it is important to remember that the canine social structure is quite different from that of humans. Anywhere that large numbers of dogs congregate the occasional fight is inevitable. Keeping your dog on a leash will minimize negative encounters with other dogs and give you better control of your pet if they are involved in a scuffle. Dogs with a history of aggression are best left at home.


Dogs and Wildlife

Georgia beaches are home to a variety of birds and other wildlife; several species are threatened or endangered. Here is some good advice designed to help protect and preserve these animals:

Shorebirds
If you are going to a remote beach, leave your dog at home. Dogs are effective predators and often disturb shorebirds that are nesting in the sand. Dogs can crush or eat young chicks or flush the parents off nests allowing other predators easy access to them. To minimize interactions with nesting birds keep your dog at home.

Do not allow your dog to chase birds on the beach. Several species of birds use Georgia beaches as critical stopovers during their long migrations. When forced to flee from dogs, birds burn up valuable calories and compromise their fat reserves. Chronic disturbance of resting birds can compromise their health and burns valuable energy needed for migration.

Sea Turtles
From late spring through early fall; loggerhead sea turtles nest on Georgia’s shores. Please take precautions to ensure your dog does not disturb adult turtles, their nests, or hatchlings. Do not allow your dog to dig above the high tide line and do not bring your pets to the beach after dark when females are laying eggs.


Why do I need to pick up my animal's waste...won't the tide wash it away?

The tide will wash it away…and that’s the problem. Recently, animal waste on the beach has received a lot of attention. Not only is it unpleasant for beachgoers, but it also poses a very real health threat to swimmers and other dogs.

Fecal coliform bacteria in seawater, tied to animal waste on the beach, can make people and animals very ill. In some cases, these bacteria can reach levels that require the local Health Department to issue a swimmers' health advisory. To ensure that your animal is not contributing to this problem, always clean up your animal's waste and deposit it in an appropriate trash receptacle. For current beach advisories in Georgia click here.

How can I keep my dog safe at the beach?

The American Kennel Club has provided the following guidelines to help you make your dog’s trip to the beach an enjoyable one:

• When taking your dog to the beach, make sure there is plenty of fresh water and shade.

• Dogs can get sunburned just like humans, so limit your dogs exposure to the hot sun and apply a zinc-free sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.

• Be careful not to let your dog spend too much time on hot sand or asphalt. Dogs can burn their feet just as easily as we can.

• Cool ocean water is very tempting to a dog. Don’t allow your dog to drink too much seawater. This can cause diarrhea or vomiting and quickly dehydrate them.

• Check with lifeguards for daily water conditions. Dogs can be easy targets for jellyfish.

• Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs, but don’t let them overdo it. They will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.

• Running on a beach is strenuous exercise and a dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament. If your dog is out of shape, don't encourage him to run on the sand.

• The beach can present many hazards for your dog. Things to watch out for include boats, fishhooks, dead fish, garbage, and broken glass.

• Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog’s coat, so rinse him off at the end of the day.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia
Several hotels, rental cottages and campgrounds in Brunswick and the Golden Isles accept pets. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of pets and/or their size. Pet-friendly properties often set aside a limited number of pet-friendly rooms. While they may show occupancy, they may in fact be out of pet-friendly rooms. Also, the accommodation may charge an additional fee for your pet. It's always best to check ahead of time just to be sure. For a listing of pet-friendly accommodations in Brunswick and The Golden Isles, click here.

Roll into Spring Break at Demere Skate Park on St. Simons Island, GA

St. Simons Island's newest attraction, Demere Skate Park, is up and running – just in time for spring break. The new skate park is located at Demere Park, near the beach and Pier Village on St. Simons Island.

The park design is geared toward younger skaters, with a variety of elements that are challenging for intermediate skaters, but easy enough to help novice skaters develop their skateboarding skills. The park includes two 3-foot quarter pipes, two 5-foot quarter pipes, two 2-foot bank ramps with flat decks and round grind rail, one square grind rail, one manual pad, one skate bench, and two 3-foot half pipes.

Demere Skate Park was designed by American Ramp Company of Joplin, MO. Specializing in modular skate park design, ARC has built similar parks in 17 states throughout the U.S. and around the world.

Demere Skate Park is the first of two skate parks planned for Brunswick and The Golden Isles. A second, larger and more difficult park is in the planning stages. It is anticipated that it will be built at the North Glynn Recreation Park in Brunswick.

The skate park is the latest in a series of enhancements and additions to St. Simons Island's recreational facilities. Last summer, Glynn County opened a new bathhouse at East Beach near the historic Coast Guard Station. Later this spring, the county will complete a new "Family Zone" recreation complex at Neptune Park in the St. Simons Island Village. It will include a new playground, miniature golf course and multi-zone pool, just in time for summer.

"Demere Skate Park is a wonderful addition to St. Simons Island's family recreational amenities," says Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Along with the new Family Zone in Neptune Park and the new bath house at East Beach, the skate park adds to St. Simons Island's appeal as a family vacation destination.

"We are especially pleased that Demere Skate Park will be available for spring break. Typically, we see a lot of families during spring break, and this will be a popular activity for many of them."

Demere Skate Park is located at 1219 Demere Road, near the intersection of Demere and Arnold Roads, on St. Simons Island. The park is open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Admission is free.

Brunswick & The Golden Isles of Georgia – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island – are located on the Georgia coast just minutes from I-95 at Exits 29, 36, 38 and 42. Visitor information, including discounts and other special offers by area hotels, attractions and restaurants, can be found online at ComeCoastAwhile.com. For information “on the go,” text BGIGA to 95495 or go to ComeCoastAwhile.mobi on your mobile phone.

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DEMERE SKATE PARK GRAND OPENING
MARCH 14 ON ST. SIMONS ISLAND

The Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department will conduct a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Demere Skate Park, 1219 Demere Road, St. Simons Island, GA, on Saturday March 14 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Pro skater Jud Heald will be on hand to conduct skating demos and sign autographs. Free T-shirts will be given to the first 100 skaters who register for the event. Door will be given away, including stickers, beanies and decks.

Registration begins at 9:00 am at the park. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 10:00 am. For more information, call Candice Temple, Glynn County Public Information Officer, at 912-554-7412.

Survey results show economic impact of Brunswick Golden Isles visitors

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau has released a new economic impact study, which shows the economic impact of tourism visitation in Glynn County, Georgia, including Brunswick, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Davidson Peterson Associates, a travel marketing research firm in Kennebunk, ME, conducted the year-long study on behalf of the Brunswick Golden Isles CVB. According to the Davidson Peterson study, Glynn County visitors spent $735 million in Brunswick and the Golden Isles between July 2007 and June 2008 (FY 2007-08). Visitor expenditures during that period resulted in:

• 14,700 full-time-equivalent jobs;
• $320 million in resident income (wages, salaries and proprietary income);
• $51 million in state government revenues; and
• $39 million in local government revenues.

An estimated 1.6 million overnight visitors stayed in Glynn County during FY 2007-08. Of that number, 1.05 million visitors stayed in area hotels, motels or resort properties. The remaining overnight visitors stayed in vacation rental properties, campgrounds or with friends or relatives.

The study shows visitor expenditures divided into several key categories. According to Davidson Peterson Brunswick Golden Isles visitors spent:

• $214.16 million on Food (29 percent of total expenditures);
• $174.42 million on Lodging (24 percent of total expenditures);
• $150.56 million on Recreation (20 percent of total expenditures, this category includes museums and historic sites, sightseeing, sport and event fees, evening entertainment, cultural events, wagering, liquor, licenses and sweepstakes);
• $55.58 million on ground transportation (8 percent of total expenditures); and
• $2.04 million on other items (0.3 percent of total expenditures).

By season, Brunswick Golden Isles visitors spent:

• $220.41 million during Spring (April-June, 30 percent of total expenditures);
• $198.67 million during Summer (July – September, 27 percent);
• $162.71 million during Fall (October – December, 22 percent); and
• $153.27 million during Winter (January – March, 21 percent).

The study was designed to measure the economic impacts derived by Glynn County residents and governments from dollars spent in the area by visitors. Economic benefits cited in the study include:

• Total expenditures by made by Brunswick Golden Isles visitors;
• The number of full-time equivalent jobs supported by visitor expenditures;
• Wages, salaries and proprietary income earned by area residents as a result of visitor expenditures; and
• State and local government revenues generated by visitor expenditures.

For the purposes of this study, a “visitor” is defined as anyone who visits Brunswick and The Golden Isles while traveling outside of his or her normal routine, spends money and remains in the area for less than 30 days. According to Davidson Peterson, “economic impact” begins when a visitor spends any amount of money on a product or service. The study further defines three types of economic impact:

• Direct economic impacts are the direct result of visitor expenditures; for example, when visitor expenditures pay the salary and benefits of a hotel desk clerk.
• Indirect economic impacts are the economic benefits that result from additional rounds of spending; for example, when a hotel and its employees support additional jobs, wages, salaries, proprietary income, and government revenues.
• Total economic impacts are the sum of direct and indirect economic impacts.

The economic impact analysis is based on information gathered by Davidson Peterson Associates between July 2007 and June 2008 through three separate surveys. The survey results were based on self-administered questionnaires completed by Glynn County visitors who were staying overnight or had traveled 50 miles or more from home on a day trip, as well as telephone interviews of Glynn County lodging managers and residents.

According to Davidson Peterson, the previous economic impact study for Glynn County’s tourism industry was conducted in 2001. A complete copy of the report can be found on the Brunswick Golden Isles CVB official website. Just click on the “Visitors Statistics” button.

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Glynn County, Georgia, including the mainland city of Brunswick and four barrier islands: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. The Brunswick Golden Isles CVB mission is to create awareness of and interest in Brunswick & The Golden Isles as destinations for vacations, meetings and group tours. 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 more information about Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia, call toll-free 800-933-COAST (2627) or visit them online at http://www.ComeCoastAwhile.com.

Runners take to the beach and the bridge during 5K Walk/Runs

St. Simons Island Beach Walk/Run set for Feb. 14

The Golden Isles Track Club will sponsor its first "I Love the Beach 5K Beach Walk/Run," Saturday February 14 on St. Simons Island.

The race will begin and end at the beach crossover at the old Coast Guard Station on East Beach. Registration will be from 7:00 to 7:45 am, and the race will begin at 8:00 am. The top three finishers in each of 13 age divisions will receive awards, each with an island theme. Overall best prizes also will be presented. T-shirts are guaranteed for all who pre-register.

According to GITC officials, there hasn't been a beach run on St. Simons Island since 1995. According to club secretary Lea King, the race is designed to be "a fun time for all," serious runners and casual walkers alike.

The race is being held to raise community awareness about organ donation. According to the Georgia Lifelink transplant awareness group, there are nearly 3,000 Georgians on the national organ waiting list. Donor cards and educational information will be provided in all race packets, and organ donors and their recipients will be on hand to share their experiences.

King, an organ donor, gave a kidney to her mother in 2002.

Applications are available at area athletic clubs and health stores. Participants also can register online. For more information, call 912-638-2396.

Annual Bridge Run set for March 21

The seventh annual Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run across the Sidney Lanier Bridge will take place Saturday, March 21.

The 5K Walk/Run will carry participants over the Sidney Lanier Bridge and its approaches, which are more than 7,700 feet long, and 185 feet above the Brunswick River. Participants will start on the southbound side of the bridge, cross it and return.

Because of the steep angle of the bridge (approximately 6% grade), no baby strollers, running strollers or rollerblades will be allowed.

The event will include a variety of activities including

• Dept. of Natural Resources interactive fishing booth
• Children's casting contest
• Children's face painting
• Entertainment
• Food and Awards

Pre-registration entry fee for the Bridge Run is $18 per person. Pre-registration forms must be postmarked by March 6. Registration forms and information are available online, or call 912-466-7007. Race day registration will open at 7:30 am; Race day registration fee will be $25 per person. Only those who pre-register will be guaranteed a commemorative race T-shirt.

The event will benefit the Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation.

Georgia's Biggest Outdoor Yard Sale links 'The Peaches to The Beaches'

Some people live for yard sales. If you count yourself among them, don't miss the fifth annual Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale, Georgia's largest yard sale, Friday and Saturday March 13 and 14.

The Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale spans 212 miles, from the beaches of Brunswick & The Golden Isles to the peach orchards of middle Georgia, along US Highway 341. In Brunswick & The Golden Isles, official yard sale sites will be in:

• Downtown Brunswick at Mary Ross Waterfront Park on Bay Street -
Saturday only from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

• St. Simons Island in the Pier Village - Friday-Sunday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

• Jekyll Island at the Beach Deck on Beachview Drive -
Friday and Saturday 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Other official yard sale sites along US 341 will be in Gardi, Jesup, Odum, Baxley, Hazlehurst, Lumber City, McRae, Helena, Chauncy, Eastman, Hawkinsville, Perry, Fort Valley, Roberta and Culloden. In addition, there are sure to be plenty of unofficial sites along the way.

Yard Sale vendors, many of whom have participated in previous sales, will offer an array of goods from antiques and collectibles to craft items, food and other yard sale fare.

The Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale was inspired by the “World’s Longest Yard Sale,” which runs along US Highway 127 from Gadsden, AL to West Unity, OH.

“I read about it in a newspaper article in which the writers traveled from one end to the other,” says Evelyn Simmons of the Golden Isles Parkway Association, which is sponsoring the event. “In 2000 and 2001, my husband and I drove the entire trail and had a marvelous time. It seemed like a natural thing for us to do along the Golden Isles Parkway.”

Simmons says there is an entire subculture of buyers and sellers that work the Alabama-Kentucky trail. “One person’s trash is another person’s treasure,” she explains. “We met antique dealers who would drive the trail in search of items that they would buy, take home and clean up, and then sell the following year.”

“People like to haggle,” Simmons adds. “There is a real camaraderie and willingness to share among those who participate in yard sales. It’s like a treasure hunt where you can find the best bargains.”

There also is a great economic benefit for communities and organizations that participate, Simmons continues. “We talked with Chamber of Commerce and Tourism representatives all along the trail, and the revenues generated by the various groups was phenomenal. Many places had never had anything that provided such a widespread economic impact for hotels, restaurants, gas stations and other businesses.”

“It's a great opportunity for Georgians and others to get off the Interstates, enjoy a beautiful drive and take a look at our small towns and cities. We think they will be surprised at what they find.”

Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale sites will be open Friday and Saturday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Several communities will have their sites open Sunday as well.

For more information, visit the official Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale site.

Not just Five Stars, but 20!

Five Stars are great, no doubt about it. Ten are even better.

But 20 Stars? To a single Resort? That's unprecedented.

Sea Island Resorts has received four Mobil Five-Star Awards, the most ever given to a single entity. According to Mobil, the Sea Island Resorts "made history by achieving the most Mobil Five-Stars ever awarded to one destination."*

The Cloister at Sea Island made Mobil Five-Star history when it received three of the awards: for the hotel itself, its signature restaurant, the Georgian Room, and the Cloister Spa. In addition, The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club maintained its Five-Star distinction for the ninth consecutive year.

The Cloister Spa is the only Mobil Five-Star spa in Georgia and one of only eight so recognized in the U.S. and Canada. The Georgian Room shares its Five-Star status with one other Georgia restaurant, and 19 other restaurants in the U.S. and Canada. The Cloister -- one of only three Georgia Five-Star hotels -- achieved its rating just three years after a complete resort rebuild.

"Winning four Mobil Five-Star awards is an incredible achievement," said Bill Jones III, chairman and CEO, Sea Island Company. "Beautiful buildings alone do not achieve this level of recognition. People -- our employees -- make the difference, by providing the genuine, heartfelt service and authentic Southern hospitality that distinguishes Sea Island."

Criteria to earn a Mobil Five-Star rating are stringent, based on more than 750 standards for hotels, more than 250 for restaurants, and more recently, 450 guidelines for spas. To achieve Mobil Five-Star status, properties must also meet or exceed Mobil's bar-setting service standards, which are determined through an unannounced, undercover service evaluation conducted by Mobil Travel Guide's expert inspectors.

The Cloister is no stranger to the Mobil Five-Star award. Prior to the resort's recent rebuild, The Cloister held the distinction for 22 years. 

Sea Island Company is a private resort and real estate development company founded in 1928. It owns and operates Sea Island Resorts, including The Cloister at Sea Island and The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Course. For more information, visit them online.

Mobil Travel Guide, originator of the prestigious Mobil Star ratings and certifications, has provided comprehensive ratings and reviews of hotels, restaurants and spas since 1958. Its team of anonymous, expert inspectors evaluates properties against rigorous and proprietary standards, giving consumers the insight to make better informed travel and leisure decisions. For more information, visit them online.

* The Cloister was one of only two U.S. destinations to receive three Five-Star awards for a single property; the other properties were the Tower Suites Las Vegas, Alex Restaurant and the Spa at Wynn.

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Images used with permission of Sea Island Company. 

Step back in time during Fort Frederica Living History Festival

Take a step back in time to the earliest days of the Georgia colony, during the 2009 Fort Frederica Living History Festival, Saturday Feb. 21 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island.

Festival activities are designed to immerse visitors into the history of Georgia's second town, the fort and the struggle for empire between Great Britain and Spain during the 18th century. Military re-enactors and other living history enthusiasts will help bring the site to life. The 2008 festival included Florida Spanish soldiers from Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine; Scottish Highlanders from Fort King George in Darien, and soldiers from Fort Frederica's volunteer regiment.

Special programs will focus on giving children a hands-on experience, including hands-on musket drills, colonial children's games, journal making and archaeology programs.

"Our activities focus on the children," says Chief Ranger Kim Coons. "The kids are recruited into the regiment and must complete a journal of their activities to get a shilling and a 'drink' in the tavern. Activities include journal-making, soldiers drill, watching the orientation film, colonial kids games and tabby making."

Other activities will include weapons firing demonstrations, guided tours of the Frederica town site and live music. Admission to the festival is free.

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Fort Frederica National Monument
The town of Frederica was founded by General Oglethorpe in 1736, three years after the founding of Savannah. Park ranger-led tours and living history programs throughout the year recall life in Georgia's second town. The park visitor center features exhibits and an orientation film, which is shown every 30 minutes. Visitor Center hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. Closed Christmas Day. Admission fee. For more information, call 912-638-3639 or visit them online.

Special Events at Fort Frederica National Monument
Feb. 28 - Robert Abbott's Fight for Civil Rights, 2:00 pm
March 14 - Georgia's Colonial Music Concert, 7:00 pm
March 28 - Bloody Marsh Musket Program, 2:00 pm
April 4 - Colonial Games: Cribbage, 2:00 pm
April 18 - Evening in a Colonial Tavern, 7:00 pm
May 16 - Frederica Folkways: The Life of a Soldier, 2:00 pm
May 30 - Story Time at the Fort, 10:00 am
June 6 - 18th Century Kids Games, 2:00 pm
June 20 - Frederica Folkways: The Life of a Soldier, 2:00 pm
June 22-24 - Hands-On History Camp
July 7 - Bloody Marsh Musket Program, 2:00 pm
July 28 - "A Thanksgiving for Victory," 2:00 pm
Aug 22 - Colonial Games: Farkle, a dice game, 2:00 pm
Sept 26 - Frederica Folkways: 18th-century Cooking, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Oct 24 - Bloody Marsh Musket Program, 2:00 pm
Nov 7 - Story Time at the Fort, 10:00 am
Nov 21 - Frederica Folkways: Making Tabby, 2:00 pm
Dec 12 - Gen. Oglethorpe's Birthday Celebration

Daily Ranger Programs take place at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm during June, July and August.

All programs, dates and times are subject to change. Please confirm information by calling 912-638-3639.

Image credit: National Park Service, Fort Frederica National Monument

Writers Workshops Provide Inspiration, Encouragement

Through the years, the abundant beauty of the Georgia coast has inspired artists of every stripe: painters, potters, jewelers, and writers among them.

In 1878, poet Sidney Lanier extolled the lush beauty of our coastal landscape, in his ode to "The Marshes of Glynn." Many others have written about coastal Georgia's towns and cities and their inhabitants. One of the best-known local authors was Eugenia Price, who wrote 14 historical novels about the Georgia and Florida coasts in the 1800s. During the 1930s, playwright Eugene O'Neill built a home and worked on Sea Island, where he wrote "Ah, Wilderness," his only comedy. Another writer of the period, Ben Ames Williams, also lived and wrote on Sea Island.

Contemporary writers can find similar inspiration - along with healthy doses of fellowship and professional guidance - during writers workshops conducted here in the Golden Isles.

Southeastern Writers Association Writers Workshop
The Southeastern Writers Association will conduct its 34th (yes, 34th) annual Writers Conference June 21-25 at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island. The annual conference draws professional and aspiring writers from throughout the country who gather to share knowledge and experience, hone their skills and promote themselves and their work.

This year's workshops are led by a team of nationally and internationally known writers including novelist Steve Berry, whose books have made the best-seller lists of the New York Times, Publishers Weekly and USA Today. Other faculty include romance novelist and cookbook author Cheryl Norman; short fiction writer Jimmy Carl Harris; children's book author Jo Kittinger; freelance non-fiction writer Kristen Kemp; poet Dana Wildsmith; writer, editor and publisher Chuck Sambucino, and blogger and online marketing expert Charlotte Babb.

Workshops cover a range of topics including advanced fiction, fiction, short fiction, juvenile, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, blogging for writers, marketing and more.

In addition to the classroom sessions, workshop participants also can:

• Have up to three manuscript evaluations in personal conferences with instructors.
  
• Enter contests in Fiction, Poetry, Non-fiction, Inspiration, Humor, Science Fiction and Fantasy.
  
• Get to know agents, editors and instructors on a personal level.
  
• Sell their books at workshop bookstore.
  
• Sign their books at the Autograph Party.
  

Tuition for the full conference, including a one-year membership in the Southeastern Writers Association, is $395. Daily tuition also is available. Tuition does not include lodging accommodations or meals.

For more information about the workshop, please visit their website.

Scribblers Retreat Writers Conference
Scribblers Retreat will offer four writers conferences during 2009: Feb. 12-15, May 14-17, Aug. 13-16 and Nov. 12-15. Conferences take place at Sea Palms Golf and Tennis Resort on St. Simons Island. Each conference will focus on different aspects of writing, from History, Short Stories and Humor (February) to Novels and Journalism (November).

Workshop participants learn from the best authors, speakers, teachers and mentors, editors and publishers, during 10 one-hour sessions. Each day offers a leisurely lunch break, perfect for island exploration, walks along the beach or relaxation.

Workshops are open to published and non-published writers, and are dedicated to encouraging, educating and promoting writers of all ages to continue their craft and publish their works.

Conference packages are $795 and include three nights accommodations, daily breakfast buffet, a Thursday evening banquet and "Evening with Author" cocktail reception on Saturday. For information about the conference and registration, visit their website. 

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A Google search yielded many other novels set in coastal Georgia. These include: 

• "Palindrome" by Stuart Woods (set on Cumberland Island)
  
• "When Winter Comes" by Beverly Bird (Savannah)
  
• "Muskrat Courage" by Philip Lawson (Okefenokee Swamp)
  
• "Run Jane Run" by Maureen Tan (Savannah)
  
• "The Jekyll Island Club" by Patricia M. Clark (Jekyll Island)
  
• "Out of the Ruins" by Sally S. Wright (Cumberland Island)
  
• "Endangered Species" by Nevada Barr (Cumberland Island).
  

For additional information about Georgia writers, visit www.gabooks.com/authors.htm. 

For information about books that relate specifically to Brunswick & The Golden isles, visit our website. 

New Website Promotes 'Georgia-Made' and 'Georgia-Grown' Items

Whether you’re a butcher, baker, or candlestick maker, if you make it or grow it in Georgia, there’s a new outlet for marketing your products online.

A brand new web site, www.gamadegagrownproducts.org, is designed to help Georgia-based businesses promote their products and services to local residents, visitors and corporate buyers. This site is endorsed by the Georgia Dept. of Economic Development and is open to artists, entertainers, gallery owners, restaurateurs, food producers and other businesses. The only requirement is that their product be made or grown in Georgia.

Listings on the site are free for the first year, and include product details, business hours, photos and other information. Registrants can update their listings and photos throughout the year to showcase new products, seasonal promotions, changes in business hours and more.

Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau, says his organization is encouraging Glynn County businesses and artisans to promote themselves, their products and services online.

“Artists, writers, chefs, jewelers and many others have found inspiration in the unspoiled beauty of our Georgia coast,” Tipton explained. “We have a thriving community of very creative people who are growing, creating and producing unique items and services. We encourage them to share their products and expertise with people who have an interest in things created here in Georgia.”

The Convention and Visitors Bureau will be contacting local businesses in January to make them aware of the opportunity. In the meantime, local businesses can register by going online to www.gamadegagrownproducts.org, and clicking on the registration link.

Explore the History and Mystery of the Golden Isles

People love a good ghost story. And no matter where you go, there are plenty of stories waiting to be told.

Jenny Strauss has been sharing tales of “the history and mystery” of the Golden Isles for the past six years, during evening ghost tours in the St. Simons Island Village. The tours begin at 9:00, at the foot of the St. Simons Island fishing pier. After a brief welcome and introduction, Jenny leads her groups on a 90-minute journey through the past.

Along the way, she shares the tales that have been handed down through the generations: of the ghost ship that plies the waters of St. Simons Sound, a disagreement that ended in murder, and the young millionaire who built a church as a memorial to his bride. Visitors learn of the Indian village that once occupied a dark and quiet portion of Mallery Park, and of the mysterious spirits that dwell among the crooks and boughs of live oak trees throughout the island.

The legends are mesmerizing, and after awhile you begin to notice sights, sounds and smells you might ignore under different circumstances. “Was that pipe tobacco I smelled in the parlor?” you ask yourself. “Did you see something move through the shadows? Did I hear someone say, ‘Get out of my house’?”

Jenny says that’s not at all unusual. “I wasn’t a believer until I began doing these tours,” she says. “I’m constantly hearing from people who have seen, felt, heard or smelled the things I’ve described. It’s especially interesting when people mention new encounters with ghostly beings.”

Jenny offers two different tours from March through October: the “Ghost Walk” tour and the “Ghost Encounter” tour. The latter includes a stop at the St. Simons Lighthouse and the keeper’s dwelling. “The people at the lighthouse offered to make it available for the tour and I couldn’t pass it up,” she explains. “It has been very, very popular and it adds a really special element to the tour.”

During October, Jenny will offer the “Ghost Encounter” tour on Saturday nights. Tickets are available at St. Simons Island Bait and Tackle on Mallery Street; or they may purchased prior to the beginning of the tour. Jenny also will do private ghost tours for groups of 10 or more. For information, visit www.ghostwalkofstsimons.com or call Jenny at 638-2756.

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN WITH A SPECIAL ‘GHOST ENCOUNTER’ TOUR OCT. 30

Join Jenny Strauss for a special “Ghost Encounter” tour Thursday, Oct. 30. The tour begins at 8:00 p.m. at the St. Simons Island fishing pier in the Village. “We’re starting an hour earlier to accommodate any school-age ghost hunters who might dare to join us,” Strauss says.

The Halloween Eve tour will include a stop at the Lighthouse and keeper’s dwelling, and may include some additional “surprise encounters.” Tickets are available at St. Simons Bait and Tackle, or may be purchased prior to the beginning of the tour. Reservations are not required.

Chinese interns visit Brunswick & The Golden Isles

The Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau recently hosted two visiting college students from Hong Kong. The students, Winnie Yin, 20, and Macy Au, 21, are completing a summer internship at the Georgia Dept. of Economic Development in Atlanta. They are part of a group of 20 Chinese students who worked in Atlanta this summer.

Winnie and Macy worked at the Tourism division, where they helped to develop new travel marketing materials for the Chinese market. Their tasks included translating the Brunswick-Golden Isles area brochure and other documents into Chinese.

“We are very excited to have their help in translating the brochure,” said Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles CVB. “Now we are able to offer area information in nine languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. We also are working with them to have our area video translated, which will expand that offering to nine languages as well.”

During their visit, Winnie and Macy enjoyed much of the best our area has to offer. Among their favorite activities were riding the Lady Jane shrimp boat, visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, climbing to the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse and going to the beach on St. Simons Island. They were “crazy for seafood,” and especially enjoyed our fresh shrimp.

“People in China know Atlanta, but they are not familiar with the Golden Isles,” Winnie said. “It is a very beautiful area and we enjoyed visiting.”

Caption: Bill Tipton, executive director of the Brunswick-Golden Isles CVB, greeted visiting Chinese interns Winnie Yin, center, and Macy Au. The students, who attend school in Hong Kong, have been working with the Georgia Dept. of Economic Development tourism division in Atlanta.

Lighthouse Concerts a Great Way to Spend a Summer Evening

From coast to coast, cities and towns throughout the country offer their own versions of summer concerts. The ambience and experiences are as varied as the locales, from all-volunteer community bands performing in ancient gazebos to internationally known, professional orchestras on stage in multi-million dollar amphitheatres.

Since 1989, St. Simons Island has offered its own, distinct version of the outdoor summer concert. The “Jazz in the Park” and “A Little Light Music” concert series take place each summer on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, drawing eclectic crowds of locals and visitors who come to soak up the sounds in a setting unlike any other.

“There are outdoor concerts all over the country, but ours are definitely the best,” says Heather Heath, executive director of Golden Isles Arts and Humanities (GIAHA). “We’ve got the ocean on one side with dolphins jumping and boats sailing by, and the beautiful lighthouse and heritage center on the other. It’s the perfect spot for a summer evening of music.”

GIAHA sponsors the “Jazz in the Park” concerts series, which was one of the organization’s first fund-raising activities. Now in its 19th season, Jazz in the Park features regional and nationally known jazz artists who perform everything from “traditional” jazz standards to cutting-edge music with an international beat.

Heath says the GIAHA series has always been jazz-based. “People love jazz,” she explains. “We have a large number of patrons who buy their season tickets in September, well in advance of the coming season.”

A second summer concert series, “A Little Light Music,” is sponsored by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. Begun in 1998, the series features local and regional performers. “We choose groups that remind us of our youth,” says Jerri Hager, the society’s director of development. Music runs the gamut from pop to bluegrass to Motown classics.

Performances typically draw from 400-600 people, with many, many more during holiday weekends. According to Heather Heath, more than 1,200 people attended this year’s Memorial Day weekend performance by local favorites Phil Morrison and Keith Williams.

Concert veterans will tell you the Sunday night concerts are more than a picnic on the lawn. Much more. “These are social events,” Heath says, “ and many people use the opportunity to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries or other occasions. It’s like a real community.”

Setups are as varied as the participants, ranging from a simple blanket and a cooler to tables and chairs with complete place settings, table linens and decorations to suit the occasion. The Golden Isles Track Club, for instance, has an elaborate setup complete with a small bar, tiki torches and a club banner.

At the July 4 weekend performance, concert-goers compete to win prizes for having the most creative and unusual setups.

Concert fare is a veritable smorgasbord limited only by the participants’ imaginations and ability to transport and safely serve their food items. Some are happy to stop by their local quik-mart for a bag of chips and sodas or beer. Others bring complete, full-course meals assembled potluck or by local eateries.

“This is truly the place to be on Sunday nights,” Heath says. “We’re even listed in a book entitled, ‘101 Things to do in Georgia before you die.’”
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Sunday evening concerts at the St. Simons Lighthouse continue through September. All concerts begin at 7:00 pm and end at 9:00 pm.

A LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC
August 3 – Harry O’Donohue’s Celtic Melodies
August 31 – Sensational Sounds of Motown
Tickets for the “Light Music” concerts are $10 per person. Children under 12 are admitted free. Information: Contact Coastal Georgia Historical Society at 638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org

JAZZ IN THE PARK
August 17 – Anton Harris Quartet
September 14 – Barry Green
Tickets for the “Jazz in the Park” concerts are $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12. Children under 6 are admitted free. Information: Contact Golden Isles Arts & Humanities at 262-6934 or visit www.goldenislesarts.org

Museums provide Rainy Day Fun on St. Simons Island

Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia are a popular destination for summer beach getaways. Unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate and there are days when you need to find other, indoor activities. St. Simons Island is home to several very interesting museums and historical sites. They’re great places to learn about the history of the Georgia coast, and a great way to spend a rainy day.

St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum & A.W. Jones Heritage Center

Standing over the St. Simons Island Village at 104 feet, the St. Simons Lighthouse was built in1872 and is the oldest brick building in Glynn County. It, along with the adjacent keeper’s dwelling, comprise the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Displays inside the lighthouse keeper’s dwelling highlight local history and tell the stories of the families who operated the light. Climb the 129 steps to the top of the Lighthouse for a breathtaking view of St. Simons Sound and nearby islands.

Enter the museum through the A.W. Jones Heritage Center, which features a new and exciting exhibit entitled, “The Sea Island Summit: Coastal Georgia Welcomes the World.” There you’ll learn the remarkable story of the historic Summit, including how Sea Island was chosen as its site, the international leaders who attended, Summit accomplishments, and a fascinating look behind the scenes in preparing for and staging such an important and complex world gathering. Be sure to stop by the museum store for a memento of your visit.

The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and A.W. Jones Heritage Center are located at 101 12th Street. Hours are Mon. - Sat. 10 am to 5 pm; Sun. 1:30 to 5 pm. Summer hours (Easter to mid-August) are Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat. 10 am to 5 pm; Tues., Thurs. 10 am to 9 pm; Sun. 1:30 to 5 pm. Admission is charged*. For information, call (912) 638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.

Maritime Museum at the Historic Coast Guard Station

This interesting museum is located in the restored U.S. 

Coast Guard Station at East Beach, which was built during the Depression as part of a WPA project. The museum features seven galleries that explain the importance of our coastal ecosystem and its preservation, the coast’s military history, and the important role played by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Your “guide” throughout the exhibits will be Ollie, a young Coast Guardsman who was assigned to duty on St. Simons Island. His journal entries, based on actual documents, help tell the story of station life and the natural wonders of the nearby beaches and marshes. Visitors of all ages will enjoy hands-on exhibits and activities along with the exhibits.

The Maritime Museum is located at 4201 First Street at East Beach. Hours are Mon. - Sat. 10 am to 5 pm; closed Sun. Summer hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day) are Mon. - Sat. 3 to 9 pm; closed Sun. Admission is charged*. For information call (912) 638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.

* Combination tickets, good for admission to the Lighthouse Museum, A.W. Jones Heritage Center and the Maritime Museum, are available.

Fort Frederica National Monument

When it was built in 1736, Fort Frederica was the most expensive military installation in British North America. The town and fort, established as an outpost by Maj. General Oglethorpe, played a crucial role in establishing England’s claims to the disputed Georgia territory.

Begin your visit with a stop at the park visitor center, where you can see an orientation program and examine exhibits that help tell the story of this vanished town and its former inhabitants. Stroll along the town’s streets to view the sites of homes, barracks, tabby fortifications and the magazine.

Fort Frederica National Monument is located at 6515 Frederica Road. The Visitor Center is open daily 9 am to 5 pm and closed Christmas Day. Admission is charged. For information call (912) 638-3639 or visit www.nps.gov/fofr

Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum
Many people are surprised to learn of St. Simons Island’s significant connections to Methodist Church history in the United States. That story is told at the Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum, located at Epworth by the Sea, a Methodist conference center off Sea Island Road.

Exhibits explore St. Simons Island history, from its Native American inhabitants to colonization by the Spanish and British, through the plantation era to modern times. Other exhibits highlight the history of the Methodist Church, which was founded by John and Charles Wesley, who spent time on the Georgia coast during the 18th century. Their influence is explored in a fascinating video in the museum’s viewing area. Nativity scenes from around the world are displayed, and an extensive research library is available.

The museum is located on Arthur Moore Drive in Epworth By the Sea Methodist Center. It is open Tues. - Sat. 10 am to 4 pm. Individual admission is free, but donations are encouraged. For information call (912) 638-4050 or visit www.epworthbythesea.org.

Mildred Huie Museum at Mediterranean House
Beloved St. Simons Island artist Mildred Huie lived and kept her studio in Mediterranean House, which was built in 1929. This intimate museum and gallery is dedicated to the art and history of St. Simons Island plantations and landmarks, which were so vividly captured in the artist’s works.

The museum houses a unique collection of paintings and replicas of the homes from each of St. Simons Island’s major 19th century plantations. The artist’s collection of rare books, papers, letters and other documents is available for viewing and study by historians and researchers.

The Mildred Huie Museum at Mediterranean House is located at 1819 Frederica Road. Hours vary. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. For information call (912) 638-3057 or (912) 638-3017 for open hours by appointment, or visit www.landmarkscenes.com.

These are but a few of the attractions and activities to be enjoyed in Brunswick & The Golden Isles: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Here, you’ll discover miles of sun-drenched beaches, 198 holes of golf, tennis, fishing and water sports, shrimp boat cruises, dolphin tours, casino/cruise ship and more. Plus accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

For a complete listing of area attractions, activities and accommodations call the Brunswick-Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-933-COAST (2627) and request a free copy of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Visitors Guide. Or, visit them online at ComeCoastWhile.com. For information “on the go,” text BGIGA to 95495 or go to ComeCoastAwhile.mobi on your mobile phone.

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