Derived from the Latin word tardus, meaning slow or delayed.
aced with the Herculean task of cleaning out my storage room (and coming up with a publisher’s letter), I found myself in desperate need of divine intervention. Inspired by this month’s feature, I decided I should call upon the nine Muses to aid me in this seemingly insurmountable chore.
First, I’d invoke Calliope, the Muse of Poetry. Her grandiose vision would turn the task into an adventure. Next, Clio, the Muse of History, would appear to help me categorize my belongings. Enter Erato, the Muse of Love, who would assist with sentimental treasures like high school prom photos. Euterpe, the Muse of Music, would provide a melodious background as I throw out my Van Halen and Molly Hatchet 8-track tapes. Melpomene and Thalia, the Muses of Tragedy and Comedy, would help me laugh at the absurdity of some of the items I have kept.
Perhaps Polyhymnia, the Muse of Sacred Hymns, would help me appreciate the heirlooms and family artifacts. Terpsichore, the Muse of Dance, would keep me moving as I move boxes from one corner to the other corner rather than getting rid of the boxes. And finally, Urania, the Muse of Astronomy, would offer a cosmic perspective, reminding me that in the grand scheme of the universe, this task I’m undertaking is but a small part of my life’s journey. In other words, why not put it off until tomorrow?!
In the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, there is no Muse dedicated to procrastination. Maybe there should be! Where are you Tardiana?
SUBSCRIBE: If you would like to receive EIL by mail each month, now you can! Sign up for a home delivery subscription by going to elegantislandliving.net and click on Subscribe. You can also sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter, EIL Insider
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: 912.399.3699 or 912.399.9969
FOR SOCIAL SCENE PHOTOS:
If you would like ElL to cover your NFP or community event for Social Scene, please contact Terry McCarthy at least 2 weeks prior to the event at 912.399.3699 or terryinssi@comcast.net
FOR WEBSITE CALENDAR & SOCIAL MEDIA NOTIFICATIONS:
To request that your special event be placed on the EIL website calendar and shared through our social media network, please email your request to Kathi Williams at kathionssi@gmail.com
FOR DISTRIBUTION: elegantislandliving@comcast.net
elegantislandliving.net
ON THE COVER:
Our August cover channels the inspiration and creativity that are at the heart of this issue. Serenity Files acted as our muse by posing for this shot taken at Morningstar Marina by Annaliese Kondo of Studio Pixel Pop and the cosmic beach photo by Jeff Allyn Szwast on page 41 inside.
In Greek mythology, the Muses referred to the inspirational goddesses and protectors of the liberal arts and sciences. They brought human characteristics to inspiration and the desire to obtain it. Over time the meaning has evolved, and a muse is now generally thought of as a person or personified force that is the source of inspiration for a creative artist. Many renowned artists throughout history were inspired by a muse, some whose names we know, like Elizabeth Siddal and Edie Sedgewick, while others remain anonymous, such as Vermeer’s Girl With a Pearl Earring. Of course, a muse does not have to take human form. Shakespeare considered his internal creative spirit his muse. This spirit that sparks artistic creation and other sources of inspiration is what we’re exploring in these pages.
THE 9 MUSES OF
GREEK MYTHOLOGY
Calliope: Muse of epic/heroic poetry and eloquence
Clio: Muse of history
Erato: Muse of lyric and love poetry
Euterpe: Muse of music
Melpomene: Muse of tragedy
Polyhymnia: Muse of sacred or religious poetry
Terpsichore: Muse of dance and choral singing
Thalia: Muse of comedy and pastoral poetry
Urania: Muse of astronomy and celestial navigation
Coastal Symphony of Georgia 2024-25 Concert Season
By Susan Garrett
Inspiration. Imagination. The elusive muse. Poets, writers, painters, and musicians have long sought that magic spark that ignites creativity. Where they nd their inspiration is sometimes surprising, often right in front of them, and occasionally pulled from fairy tales. Composers who found that spark will have their music performed by the Coastal Symphony of Georgia during its 2024-25 Concert Season, and lucky concert attendees will have an opportunity to experience their inspired music.
For some, it was a return to the motherland. The Opening Night concert, Homelands, features composers who found their inspiration in stories and artistry of home. American composer, Brian Raphael Nabors, has a passionate desire to celebrate the African spirit, to create a symphonic tapestry of music based on tales from Africa and the Caribbean. Nabors draws from combinations of Jazz Funk, R&B, and Gospel with a modern flair of contemporary classical music for inspiration. In his Of Earth and Sky: Tales from the Motherland, Nabors seeks “to engulf the listener in these sounds of life, spirit, humanity.”
The concert will also feature Russian composer Mikhail Glinka’s rollicking Ruslan and Ludmila Overture which has been described as a workout for violinists and a nightmare for bassoonists! It will close with Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, imagined from viewing a good friend’s exhibition of paintings.
Fall will bring Emotions, a concert featuring music drawn from emotional experiences. Russian composer Dimitri Shostakovich’s powerful and deeply personal Chamber Symphony was written for quartet in three days, after he reluctantly joined the communist party, and later transcribed for orchestra. Much of the composer’s work was written under the pressure of government-imposed standards of Soviet art. The symphony has a sense of urgency throughout suggesting Shostakovich’s internal struggle with the political realities surrounding him. Once asked if he believed in God, he said “No, and I am very sorry about it.”
Also on the program will be Austrian composer, Anton Webern’s luscious Langsamer Satz for strings; falling in love while on a hiking
trip with his cousin, Webern envisioned the piece as a love song to the woman who would become his wife. American composer Quinn Mason’s Princesa de la Luna will enchant with its shimmering imagery of celestial elegance. And J.S. Bach’s Oboe d’amore Concerto, described as a cheerful, enticing work that makes happy and heals the heart, will be played by Clarence Heagy Principal Oboe Chair, Daniel Rios.
A personal recovery and a healing friendship brought us Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s only violin concerto which will be performed at the winter concert, Genius It was composed in Clarens, Switzerland when the composer was recovering from depression and the end of his ill-fated marriage. A composition student, Iosif Kotch, had come to visit and they played violin and piano together causing Tchaikovsky to ask Kotch’s advice on the solo part of the concerto. “It goes without saying that I would have been able to do nothing without him,” noted the composer. The concerto would become one of the most beloved and challenging works for violin and orchestra with its lyrical melodies, virtuosic passages, and folk-inspired themes.
Russian-born soloist, Alexander Sitkovetsky will perform the concerto with the orchestra. The concerto is both feared and revered for its devilish difficulty and will showcase the virtuosity of this truly engaging
TICKET INFO:
For complete information on the 2024-2025 Coastal Symphony of Georgia season and to order tickets, please call the box office at 912.634.2006 or visit coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org. Season subscribers save 20% on their ticket orders.
artist. Sitkovetsky studied at the Menuhin School for musically gifted children in the UK where his mentor was Yehudi Menuhin, world renowned violinist and conductor. A fan of the older tradition of violin playing, he performs on the 1679 “Parera” Antonio Stradivari violin loaned to him by the Beare’s International Violin Society. The Stradivarius violins were built by members of the Italian Stradivari family during the 17th and 18th centuries; they are considered some of the finest instruments ever made and are extremely valuable as collector’s items.
The genius of Mozart will also be displayed at this concert in his “Linz” Symphony, written in four days when he arrived in Linz to discover a concert had been scheduled by a local court. Sometimes a deadline is all that is needed to inspire creativity! The concert will open with British composer Alma Deutscher’s Cinderella Overture full of enchanting melodies and harmonies that create a time of pure imagination. Her opera reimagines the fairy tale with a heroine who is a composer and a prince a poet who falls for her because of her talent.
The spring concert, Impressions, closes the season with imaginative music full of vivid imagery and impressionistic milestones. The program features music from American composers Jessie Montgomery and Charles Griffes, French composer Claude Debussy, and Russian composer Igor Stravinsky. Taking inspiration from a Russian fairy tale in The Firebird Suite, Stravinsky makes full use of a large orchestra, creating characters from the story and the Firebird’s blessing and curse. This will bring an exciting and fitting close to a concert season full of inspiration, imagination, and the magic spark of creativity. This year’s performances are not to be missed. Order your tickets now and look forward to the experience!
CONCERT SCHEDULE:
Homelands: Monday, September 30, 2024, Brunswick High School
Emotions: Monday, November 11, 2024, Wesley Church at Frederica Genius: Monday, February 11, 2025, Wesley Church at Frederica Impressions: Monday, March 24, 2025, Brunswick High School
All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.
Elizabeth Siddal was the favorite female model of the preRaphaelite artists due to her ethereal beauty. Ophelia by John Everett Millais, in which Siddal floats in a bathtub full of water to evoke the tragic heroine, is perhaps the most famous portrait of her. After marrying one of the group’s leaders, Dante Gabriel Rossetti in 1849, she stopped modelling for other artists. In 1863, a year after her death, Rossetti immortalized her beauty in Beata Beatrix, where she is presented as the praying daughter of a noble Florentine family who also died young. Other Rossetti paintings that included Siddal are Ecce Ancilla Domini and Regina Cordium (The Queen of Hearts).
For many years Camille Claudel was thought of mainly as sculptor Auguste Rodin’s assistant, lover, and muse. From 1884 on, she worked as an assistant in Rodin's studio, but she too had a passion for sculpture and created several portraits of Rodin. Her best-known pieces include The Age of Maturity (1893–1900) and The Gossips (1897). Although Claudel destroyed much of her own work, today she is considered to have had a significant influence on Rodin, as dramatic changes in his practice and technique occurred after he met her.
Girl. After her split from Warhol, she began dating Dylan, who wrote several songs about the would-be star, including "Just Like a Woman" and "Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat.”
Another woman who captured Bob Dylan’s attention was French singer-songwriter and actress Françoise Hardy. One of the leading figures of the yé-yé wave of the early 60s, she also turned the heads of rockers including David Bowie, members of The Beatles and Rolling Stones, even Morrisey. Hardy and Dylan met in 1966, at one of his concerts. Two years earlier, Dylan had included a beat poem he had written about Hardy, a source of infatuation for him, on the back cover of Another Side of Bob Dylan. When Dylan noticed Hardy was in the audience at his concert, Dylan notoriously refused to go back on stage to perform the second half unless she went to his dressing room so they could meet in person. Hardy left her mark on far more than music, she was a true cultural personality and French national treasure, who inspired art, fashion, film, poetry, and dreams of admirers that spanned generations.
Art
Dylan. “Poor little rich girl,” York style and
Edie Sedgwick was a muse for both Pop icon Andy Warhol and legendary folk musician Bob “Poor little rich Sedgwick was a socialite who moved to New to pursue modeling. Enchanted with her iconic and vibrant personality, Warhol had her star in several of his screen tests and films, including Beauty No.2, Ciao! Manhattan, and Poor Little Rich
Keith Richards described Marianne Faithfull as an “über muse” when taking about her influence on Mick Jagger and the Rolling the original ‘It’ girls of the Swinging 60s, Faithfull as a folk singer in 1964, but her true fame came from and inspiring hit songs “Sympathy Always Get What You Want,” and songwriting talents are actually credited
Stones. One of the original ‘It’ started off as a folk in her relationship with Jagger and for the Devil,” “You Can’t “Wild Horses.” Her on “Sister Morphine.”
filled with fascinating and inspiring artist couples as well. These relationships are often passionate and complex, each partner acts as muse and/or mentor for the other. talented Mexican painters Frida Diego Rivera and American modernist painter and the famous photographer who husband, Alfred Stieglitz.
History is filled with fascinating as well. These are where each partner acts muse Examples of these include talented Kahlo and Rivera Georgia O’Keefe became her
Peter Estersohn
SITTING DOWN WITH STEVEN SPANDLE
Who better to talk about muses and inspiration with than a practitioner of classical architectural design who is passionate about history and decorative art? Georgia native Steven Spandle, founding principal of the New York-based firm, Steven W. Spandle, Architect, was simply a perfect candidate. This Georgia native is a graduate of the architecture program at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the recipient of a Masters of Classical Architecture from the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture. He worked in Atlanta, Boston, and New York before opening his own practice. Steven is a former member of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and an active member of the Institute for Classical Architecture & Art, the Connoisseur Society at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and the Collector’s Circle at the Winterthur Museum, Library, and Garden.
Steven’s firm focuses on designs for the residential market with a select number of historic restoration projects throughout the U.S. He gained nationwide attention as the architect of the Tennis Pavilion, the first free standing addition to the White House grounds in decades, and was featured in the White House Historical Association’s podcast, “White House: Next-Gen Designers,” which highlighted the work of the professionals involved in that project. From 2017 to 2021 Steven was selected to work on a variety of restoration projects at the White House and at Camp David, the Presidential retreat in Maryland.
Steven was kind enough to let EIL quiz him about his muse and sources of inspiration. We were also thrilled to get a look at some of his recent work and hear about a current project on St. Simons Island.
Peter Hurley
Peter Estersohn
EIL: What inspired you to pursue architecture and design?
SS: I was always interested in architecture for as long as I can remember. When I was in elementary school, I used to sit with my grandmother and talk about plans to remodel her house. I always wanted to visit construction sites and explore buildings, and I would spend my time sketching floor plans.
When I was young, my family went to Jekyll Island every December for a Farm Bureau convention. Each year my parents would take me to tour the “cottages” in the historic district. It was truly amazing to visit this place and see buildings designed by David Adler, John Russell Pope, Carrere and Hastings, and others. Visiting Jekyll, and frequent visits to the historic district in Savannah definitely had a major impact on my design aesthetic. I was very lucky to have obliging parents who would take me to visit these places.
Growing up on a farm in Claxton, we always did basic construction work ourselves (plumbing, electrical, framing). I loved learning how buildings come together and spent a lot of time rewiring light fixtures or fixing
broken fans. It wouldn’t surprise you that This Old House was my favorite TV show as far back as I can remember. When I was 12, the show did a project in downtown Savannah. My mother and I skipped school one day and stood out on the sidewalk in front of the house. The team working inside quickly took notice and I was able to meet Norm Abram, Steve Thomas, and most of the team. They couldn’t believe there was a young fan waiting outside and they could not have been more welcoming.
EIL: Do you have a constant source of inspiration as your muse or is that something that varies from project to project?
SS: My muse is ever changing; each project has its own. It could be a detail from another building, a piece of furniture or sculpture, etc. For example, I am designing a space around an antique amethyst glass bell jar lantern. On other projects, I have designed spaces around a specific door hardware detail, or a small cast lead ornament that decorates a leaded glass fanlight. Inspiration can come from almost anywhere, and often I find it in the smallest of details.
EIL: Are there any mentors or other architects and creatives who you would credit with inspiring your work?
SS: Norman Askins was my first boss after I graduated from Georgia Tech. He made a huge impact on me in the short time I worked for him between my undergraduate and leaving for graduate school at Notre Dame. I already loved reference books, but Norman would recommend specific volumes that were particularly influential on him. I believe I spent most of my income seeking out and purchasing these (often out of print) books. This was the time when I became very serious about building my reference library, which is still expanding to this day.
I am also particularly inspired by the craftspeople we are blessed to work with. Giving a craftsperson the right project to showcase their skill
This bathroom, and the cerused oak millwork was inspired by the work of Frances Elkins and David Adler (a brother and sister interior design and architecture duo). They produced insanely beautiful designs often using materials that were unique for the time. The client fell in love with the calacatta turquoise marble used throughout their bathroom suite, and the cerused oak looks stunning with it. The polished nickel medicine cabinet, that doubles as a tripartite mirror, is based on a detail from Marjorie Merriweather Post’s bathroom at one of her homes (something I saw on one of my many visits to historic houses). This is just a taste of how various sources of inspiration come together in a design. (pictured at right)
Peter Estersohn
Peter Estersohn
set is incredibly inspirational and gratifying. We are lucky to work with amazing millworkers, carvers, sculptors, plaster vendors, textile experts and others. We love doing everything we can to keep historic crafts and techniques alive and thriving.
EIL: Why do you consider historic preservation important?
SS: We use traditional design details so frequently in our work, that we naturally become protectors and stewards of historic houses and decorative arts. They are constant resources for us, so it is a part of our job to simultaneously care for these buildings and objects. And, of course, in doing so, the next generation can use them and learn from them. I am a passionate collector of antiques, which is a constant source of inspiration for my architectural designs. There is so much we can learn from history, such as who the craftspeople responsible for the work might be, historic building techniques, and how people lived. These lessons often inform us of how we should build going forward. It is critical that we preserve our past.
EIL: When a client tells you their inspiration or vision for a space, how does that guide you?
SS: I love when a client or interior designer suggests a design direction that I may not have considered. This may come in the form of a reference image, a piece of furniture or artwork. And that inspiration oftentimes becomes an opportunity to research a new topic. Collaboration with a design team (interior designer and landscape architect), along with a client is one of my favorite parts of the job, because it is an opportunity to create outcomes of the highest quality.
EIL: What was your inspiration for the White House Tennis Pavilion?
SS: The Tennis Pavilion was inspired by the White House itself. For me, it was extremely important to design a structure that would fit seamlessly into the grounds and look as if it had always been there. That being said, I took inspiration specifically from the East and West wings, and there is a nod to Thomas Jefferson and his design for the Garden Pavilions at Monticello. Working at the White House and Camp David was one of the most incredible experiences I could imagine.
It was particularly special to follow in the footsteps of another Georgia native, architect Edward Vason Jones, who did amazing work on the White House and State Department starting in the 1960s. The Tennis Pavilion has a few references to my home state and to my alma mater: the granite base of the building was quarried in Georgia, along with the marble used for flooring throughout the interior. In a nod to Notre Dame, all of the exterior limestone trim is from Indiana.
Bruce White
Peter Estersohn
EIL: Are there major differences in architecture styles here in the South compared to your work in New England and other regions?
SS: There are regional dialects in traditional Architecture, and we love to use them all. Our projects currently stretch up the east coast into New England, and out to the Midwest. We tailor our designs to work with the local climate, along with embracing the design inspiration whether it be a stucco Spanish colonial, or a shingled New England colonial revival. I am currently working on a gambrel roof coastal cottage here on St. Simons Island. It draws inspiration from the architectural heritage of the coastal southeast, while also mixing in inspiration from some of my favorite houses in coastal New England.
EIL: What music inspires you?
EIL: Where do you go when seeking inspiration?
SS: We try to go on a few study trips every year. This past January we spent ten days touring in Egypt, last fall we were in Yorkshire in the UK, and before that was Madrid. I was lucky to spend a year abroad studying in Paris during my undergraduate at Georgia Tech, and a semester in Rome during my graduate studies at Notre Dame. Travel is always inspirational. Seeing design and construction techniques from different regions never fails to spark new ideas. In an average week, I visit house museums as often as possible and spend time poring over books in my research in my library.
SS: I have eclectic taste in music and listen to everything from a SaintSaëns Prelude and Fugue to Salt-N-Pepa Push It. I do have a special affinity for pipe organ music, and the mechanics of the instruments themselves.
EIL: Do you have a favorite recent project or anything exciting in the works?
SS: We are just finishing a project with the interior designer Bunny Williams in Manhattan. The client loves traditional architecture and wanted to transform a contemporary apartment into a Georgian interior. It turned out spectacularly well, and I can’t wait to have it photographed!
I am also extremely excited about our St Simons project. It is something very special and I can’t wait to show you how it turns out once construction is complete!
EIL: We’ll be eagerly waiting. No doubt it will be both inspired and inspiring!
Peter Estersohn
Peter Estersohn
DUDLEY LONGFELLA
Porch + Patio’s
Mini Muse
stop by + Patio at impact on their social
3404 Frederica Road on St. Simons Island, there’s a good chance you’ll see the little fella media pages. This furry muse’s name is Dudley Longfella and his introduction on his very own Instagram profile (@dudley_longfella) identifies him as the Executive Cuteness Coordinator at Porch + Patio and a mini, longhaired Dachshund. Store owners Bob and Sissy Blanchard brought Dudley home in April and he is now right at home. He takes his duties seriously too! He’s a pro model when it comes to testing and staging the store’s fabulous POLYWOOD collection and other outdoor furniture offerings. He’s eager to help unwrap inventory. He helps Dad with the paperwork and ensures Mom gets her exercise by demanding to go out every 15 minutes or so.
An ideal muse, Dudley’s antics and sheer adorableness are inspiring so many fun posts on the Porch + Patio social media accounts. Check him out at @porchandpatiossi for the island store and @porchandpatio for the Kingsland location. In addition to Dudley’s handsome mug and updates on his professional adventures, you’ll see the fabulous inventory available at Porch + Patio and learn about any specials and sales they’re having. Drop in from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday –Friday and between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday to shop and the chance of a Dudley sighting. New friends are always welcome!
InspirED to Make an Impact
Riley Mattox, CC Hightower, Christian Freeman, Ally Haney and Claire Auffenberg are united by a common goal: to help individuals battling cancer and their families. As Co-Chairs of this year’s American Cancer Society Victory Gala, these dynamic women are all inspired by the desire to find a cure for this disease that robs us of the ones we love. As stated by the American Cancer Society (ACS), today more people are surviving cancer than ever before, but there is still work to be done to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
2024 Victory Gala Co-Chairs Riley Mattox, CC Hightower, Christian Freeman, Ally Haney and Claire Auffenberg
“The local ACS Victory Board has been involved in our community for over 50 years. This year, we hope to continue to raise funds for our local cancer patients,” says Riley Mattox. “I became involved with this organization, because everyone knows somebody impacted by cancer. Right now, a childhood friend of mine who resides on St. Simons Island is battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. His story, like many others, illustrates how crucial it is that we continue to fight to find a cure for cancer.”
Ally Haney echoes those sentiments, saying, “Everyone has been affected by cancer, and my granddaddy unfortunately was one of those who lost his fight with the horrible disease. I pray that through the funds we raise from Gala, we are able to make a difference for the patients and their families that are currently battling cancer.”
“We are fortunate to have a relationship with ACS and our local cancer center at Southeast Georgia Health Systems,” adds Claire Auffenberg. “Our ability to raise funds and support them is the impetus for the four events Victory Board hosts throughout the year, especially through our annual gala.”
Community-minded spirit is at the heart of CC Hightower’s motivation. She explains, “After mentioning that I wanted to become more involved in giving back in our community, my friend Lexie Whatley recommended that I join the Victory Board and I’m so glad that she did! Not only do we have so much fun planning and attending numerous fundraisers throughout the year, but we’re able to see the dollars we raise be put to good use at our local cancer care center. Nearly every family I know has been impacted by cancer in some shape or form and I’m very proud to say that I’m a part of helping ease the financial burden for local families that are in the midst of some of the most challenging times they’ll ever face.”
“Being a part of the Davis Love Foundation and the RSM Classic has shown me just how much charitable dollars can impact our community and changes lives of those involved with organizations who receive the dollars,” says Christian Freeman. “Victory Board allows me to be involved
in raising funds for the ACS and our local Cancer Care Center. This is so near to my heart as many family members of mine have fought cancer. Currently, my cousin Callie is fighting metastatic breast cancer and is a clinical trial to help shrink tumors on her bones. Watching her go through treatment has been tough but her spirit has always remained high.” She adds, “I am hopeful that through Victory Board, we are able to shine a light in a dark time for those going through a diagnosis and treatment and ease the financial burdens that come along with it.”
Join the Victory Board for the “Betting on a Cure” Gala at Sea Island Retreat Clubhouse on Friday, September 20 from 7:00-10:00 p.m. It promises to be a night of excitement and generosity. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy an array of casino games, silent and live auctions, and plenty of fun, all while raising money for ACS and the Cancer Care Center at Southeast Georgia Health System. The event is cocktail attire this year, as opposed to black tie. We will have an open bar, dinner, and music by Who Rescued Who. This Jacksonville band’s sound has been described as “an updated translation of The Police, Tears
for Fears, The Cure and U2” with some musical contemporaries being Young the Giant, Bombay Bicycle Club, Walk the Moon, and Morning Parade. They deliver a spellbinding good time by performing upbeat original songs mixed in with interesting cover songs from timeless genres. They’ll surprise and inspire you.
Don’t miss this chance to make a difference while having a fantastic time. Proceeds will be used by the Health System to directly address the personal needs of patients receiving cancer treatment there. Because many of the patients in treatment are lacking the basic essentials, such as transportation to and from appointments, funds received will be used to address patient needs that range from snacks, to gift cards, to transportation, etc. This may not seem like much, but in 2022 alone, ACS provided more than 323,000 rides to more than 35,000 patients in need through transportation programs. Especially with the rising costs of fuel, any support provided helps remove the barriers that stand between patients without transportation and the lifesaving treatment they require.
Tickets are $200 per person and are limited, so purchase yours today at seaisland.acsgala.org. Various sponsorship packages are also available. Let’s help make ACS make the rate of survival more certain than the spin of a roulette wheel.
FINDING YOUR MUSE
How do you summon your own inner muse and find artistic inspiration? Sometimes this process seems daunting. Here are some suggestions that might inspire and enrich your creative spirit.
Look to others.
Ask your mentors or artistic colleagues how they find inspiration. Research how other artists in your form of creative expression develop their own creative muses. Exploring what works for others may stimulate your innovation.
Set
aside
time for daily practice.
Dedicate a portion of each day to practicing and mastering your chosen art form. Be intentional about doing what you love. Creating a process and routine that includes time actively devoted to your passion can increase your creative output.
Take a mental break.
Walking away from your project and the “artistic canvas” allows your mind to wander elsewhere and refresh. A workout at the gym, meditation session, exhilarating swim, or an impromptu dance party may be exactly what you need to bring vitality and innovation to your work.
Change your point of view, literally.
Get outside or somewhere different than your normal landscape. Trade your desk chair for a beach chair or backyard swing. A change of scenery can do wonders to replenish your creative well.
Do some brainstorming.
Sit down with a friends or family members who have a different perspective and come up with original thoughts and ideas. Stretch beyond your normal way of thinking and embrace other ways of approaching a project or task. Sometimes you just need to see things from a different angle to get “unstuck.”
Embrace new experiences.
You may discover that your muse exists outside the realm of your project. Seek adventure in its many forms. It may stimulate your senses in a new way, open your mind, and get your creative juices flowing.
Most importantly, don’t give up hope.
Your creativity isn’t lost even if you have trouble finding your muse from time to time. Inspiration is known to strike at its own pace and in unexpected ways. Be patient and trust the process.
“Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?”
- Frida Kahlo
Jeff Allyn Szwast Photography
Small Business. Big Heart.
There’s going to be a party on Tuesday, August 6, and YOU are invited to come out and celebrate 50 years with Little’s Custom Blinds.
The Little family and their employees would like to thank their customers and the Golden Isles community for helping them reach this impressive milestone. Without you, this small, locally-owned, family business with a big heart would not be where it is today – literally!
In 1974, Joe and Charlotte Little opened a shop on Altama Road in Brunswick to sell paints and wall coverings. Thanks to brisk business, they quickly outgrew that location and expanded their offerings to include window treatments when they moved to a larger space. The business continued to grow, and before long, they needed even more room and moved to their current location at Glynn Avenue and 4th Street in Brunswick.
Joe and Charlotte’s son, Mitchell, who was working there part-time when the store opened, continued in the business after graduating from college. When Joe and Charlotte retired in the 90s, he took the helm at Little’s. The business has continued to evolve over the years, with the window covering side of the business becoming the entire focus of Little’s Custom Blinds and Shutters about 20 years ago.
In 2008, Little's had the distinction of being chosen by Hunter Douglas to become an elite Gallery Dealer. Galleries provide the entire Hunter Douglas product line and have trained staff to help customers get the perfect product for their needs. Little’s is the only dealer in the Golden
Isles area allowed to offer Hunter Douglas' Right Choice Promise that ensures 100% customer satisfaction.
The following year, 2009, Mitchell’s son, Stephen, stepped in as the third generation to work in the family business. A Georgia Tech graduate with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Stephen is the go-to guy for all things motorized. As a “Certified Motorization Specialist,” he’s trained to install all types of remote-controlled blinds and shutters. For the past three or four years, Stephen has been running the day-to-day workings at Little’s.
While Little’s Brunswick showroom offers modern, state-of-the-art window coverings and technology and they now operate a fleet of four vans that allow for in-home shopping and installations, the business itself still has a quaint, family feel. Stephen and Mitchell carry on a family legacy originally set by Joe and Charlotte of putting the customer’s satisfaction first. They are known for going above and beyond to ensure they maintain that as their primary goal. Helping customers with issues when products aren’t covered by Hunter Douglas’ warranty and giving
“Recently, I worked with David from Little’s for the second time. The Little’s team members were so great to work with from sales to installation. David expertly came up with a solution to my needs for my home. I will continue using Little’s for sure!”
KRISTIN MCKNIGHT
June 20, 2023
"Always top shelf service. Friendly, honest and knowledgeable."
BYRON
FLANDERS
May 7, 2024
“The quintessential experts when it comes to window and door coverage! Little’s family business has been in business for almost 50 years! These guys know their stuff and provide access to limitless options when it comes to purchasing your blinds and shutters.”
JP THORNTON
September 18, 2023
customers replacement parts are some things that set Little’s apart from other businesses. They specialize in small town service and integrity with professional results. The business has flourished not because of any targeted marketing campaigns, but through word of mouth from happy customers, high quality products, and excellent service provided by knowledgeable and friendly professionals.
The distinctive services offered by Little’s include free in-home consultations throughout St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Brunswick, and surrounding Georgia cities, professional measuring, and experienced installation. They’re happy to provide design advice to help you find amazing custom blinds, shades, or shutters that will look perfect with your existing decor. Even their website at littlesblindsandshutters.com has an excellent gallery full of inspiration and design ideas as well as very informative blog posts. They can turn you on to the latest tech, give you tips to beat the heat, and provide insight on choosing the right shades to create the ambiance you want in each room.
Plan to drop by the showroom for the party on August 6 to help Little’s celebrate their golden anniversary and congratulate them on 50 years of providing trusted service and quality products to customers in the Golden Isles and beyond.
Dreams really do come true, but not without hard work and dedication. Twenty-five years ago, Dr. Lisa Ryan had a vision of opening a veterinary hospital that catered exclusively to cats. Despite having a solid business plan and drawing inspiration from the success of other feline-only hospitals across the country, she faced significant challenges. Securing a small business loan proved difficult, as not everyone appreciated Dr. Ryan’s vision in 1999. Undeterred and driven by her mantra, “Where there is a will, there is a way,” Dr. Ryan opened the doors to Coastal Cat Clinic on St. Simons Island in September 1999.
Dr. Ryan's journey into veterinary medicine began at the tender age of 13 when she worked cleaning kennels at her local veterinary hospital on weekends and after school. This early exposure ignited her passion for animal care. She continued working in veterinary hospitals and earned her veterinary technician degree from State University of New York, Canton in 1991. The following year, she attended Ross University on the island of St. Kitts and earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1995.
After completing an internship year at Oklahoma State University, Dr. Ryan secured her first job as a veterinarian on St. Simons Island in 1996. After three years of honing her skills and building relationships in the community, she decided the timing was right to embark on her own venture, marking the beginning of what would become not just a career, but a lifestyle dedicated to the care of the cats of the Golden Isles.
Over the years, Dr. Ryan has faced numerous challenges in maintaining a successful small business. The 2008 housing market crash significantly impacted the local economy, affecting many small businesses, including veterinary practices. Families struggled financially and often found it difficult to afford veterinary care for their pets, particularly for cats. Recognizing her clients' hardship, Dr. Ryan's clinic provided reduced-cost veterinary care and charity services for stray and feral cats in the community. Coastal Cat Clinic ensured that even during tough economic times, no cat was left without care. This commitment to service enabled Coastal Cat Clinic to minimize the financial impact on its clients while still providing quality care for its patients.
The more recent COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented difficulties for businesses worldwide from 2020 to 2022. Coastal Cat Clinic faced these challenges head-on, remaining open without any closures throughout the pandemic. This unwavering dedication ensured that clients and their feline companions continued to receive the necessary care, even in the face of global uncertainty.
For the past 25 years, Coastal Cat Clinic has been a beacon of hope and care for the feline population of the Golden Isles. The clinic has provided innovative veterinary care, including advanced diagnostics, preventive medicine, and surgical services, tailored specifically for cats. Dr. Ryan’s expertise and compassionate approach have garnered her a loyal clientele, who appreciate the specialized care their cats receive.
Beyond the clinic walls, Coastal Cat Clinic has been instrumental in improving the lives of stray and feral cats in the community. Dr. Ryan has dedicated countless hours as the primary veterinarian for No Kill Glynn County, a local animal rescue organization. Through this partnership, the clinic has provided veterinary care for hundreds of orphaned and rescued kittens and cats, playing a crucial role in their rehabilitation and adoption.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Dr. Ryan’s career has been witnessing the positive impact of her work on both cats and their
owners. Stories of rescued cats finding loving homes and sick cats recovering under her care are testaments to the difference Coastal Cat Clinic has made. These success stories are a source of pride and motivation for Dr. Ryan and her dedicated team.
As Coastal Cat Clinic celebrates its 25th anniversary, Dr. Ryan and her team want to extend a heartfelt "THANK YOU" to all their clients. The trust and loyalty of the community have been integral to the clinic’s success. As a locally and privately-owned veterinary hospital, Coastal Cat Clinic remains committed to providing the latest in innovative veterinary care. The clinic’s mission is to continue enhancing the lives of cats in the Golden Isles through compassion, expertise, and a dedication to excellence.
Coastal Cat Clinic's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep love for cats. Dr. Lisa Ryan’s journey from a young kennel cleaner to a successful veterinarian and business owner is inspiring. Her unwavering commitment to feline care has left an indelible mark on the community. As the clinic celebrates this milestone, it stands as a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and the unyielding bond between humans and their feline friends.
Here’s to 25 years of Coastal Cat Clinic, and to many more years of making dreams come true for cats and their owners on St. Simons Island.
Dr. Lisa Ryan
It’s hard to believe school will be back in session this month. It seems like summer just began!
To help make the transition a little less painful, we’ve come up with some fun recipes to start the school year off right. From breakfasts that will put a smile on their face to lunches that aren’t your typical sandwich and chips, plus after-school snacks and easy dinners for those busy sports practice nights.
Critter Toast
MORNING MUNCHES
This recipe is all about improvision. Grab your favorite bread for toast and then prepare to make some adorable animal faces with spreads like cream cheese, Nutella, peanut or other nut butters, and some fruit. Be creative and change it up to surprise the kids. We’ll give you a few ideas to start:
OWL
Spread toast with cream cheese or Nutella. Cut strawberries into slices and layer on as feathers. Create eyes with banana slices and blueberries and add an almond or an end slice of strawberry for the beak.
MONKEY
Spread toast with Nutella, add two slices of banana for eyes, half slices of banana for ears and mouth. Use blueberries for pupils.
PIG
Slice a strawberry into triangles for ears, cut two raspberries in half to use bottom of each for nose, set aside two blueberries for eyes. Mash raspberry tops into some plain cream cheese to turn pink and make base for snout on the toast. Top snout with raspberry bottoms as nostrils. Put a small dab of cream cheese in spots for eyes and ears and add blueberries and strawberries to complete face.
BEAR
Spread toast with peanut or other nut butter for the base/face, add slices of banana for the ears and snout, add blueberries for eyes and the nose.
Daybreak Cookies
Instead of handing them a PopTart as they head out the door,give them a couple cookies. Bake a batch of these tasty, healthier breakfast cookies to keep on hand for busy mornings and breakfast on the go.
Ingredients:
1½ c. whole wheat flour
2½ c. old-fashioned rolled oats
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 c. creamy peanut butter or almond butter
1/2 c. dark brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. mashed banana (about 2 medium)
1 c. shredded apple (about 2 medium, peeled)
1/2 c. chocolate chips
Optional add-ins: chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins, dried cranberries
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside. In medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside. In large bowl, blend peanut butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla and mix until well combined. Mix in mashed banana. Slowly add flour mixture until just combined. Stir in shredded apple, chocolate chips, and any other desired add-ins to evenly distribute. Form 3-4 tablespoons of dough into large balls and place a few inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball. Bake for 10-12 minutes until slightly browned. Let cool on cookie sheets for 10 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
15-Minute Mini Quiches
Ingredients:
1/2 c. diced ham (or use cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled)
1 onion, chopped
6 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. Bisquik
1 tbsp. chopped green onion
1½ c. shredded cheddar cheese
Parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 mini muffin pans. Beat eggs. Mix in all ingredients, then spoon in greased muffin pans, filling cups to top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until tops are slightly browned. Allow quiches to cool before removing from the pan and garnish with parsley before serving.
Dragon Blood Smoothies
Smoothies are a perfect breakfast option for the car ride to school or an afternoon snack. The vivid magenta color of this one makes it more attractive to kids than the green options. If you don’t care about the color, you can hide an even healthier punch by adding a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves.
Ingredients:
1/4-1/2 c. water (depending on desired thickness)
1/2 c. orange juice (freshly squeezed is preferred)
1/4 c. plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
1 (3½ oz.) pkg. frozen dragon fruit puree
1 frozen banana
1/2 c. frozen blueberries, blackberries, strawberries or raspberries
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients in a blender, starting with water, juice, and yogurt. Blend on high until smooth, about a minute. Garnish with mint. Serve immediately.
BOX IT UP
Brunchbox
Turn their lunchbox into a brunchbox! Pack some mini pancakes and cooked sausage links or patties with a side of maple syrup for dipping. A yogurt parfait with fruit and granola is another delicious option. French toast kabobs that alternate cubes cut from French toast sticks with sliced bananas, strawberries, and grapes are a creative twist on the classic. Waffle sandwiches can be made with peanut or other nut butter and jelly or Nutella and bananas. Mini bagel sandwiches filled with plain or flavored cream cheese are also popular. For more protein, egg bites or mini quiches are ideal.
Deconstructed Tacos
Taco ingredients taste great cold and your child will enjoy putting them together all on their own. Fill bento box or small containers with ground turkey or beef with taco seasoning, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes or salsa, and shredded lettuce. Include a mini guacamole to-go cup and sour cream if your child likes these toppings. For dessert, include watermelon cubes or other mixed fruit.
Homemade Lunchables
Why buy pre-made Lunchables when you can create your own? Use your child’s favorite crackers, sliced cheeses, and pepperoni slices or other lunchmeat sliced into cracker-sized bites. Add a granola bar or a few cookies and drink to round out the meal. Add-ons like a frozen Go-Gurt or drinkable yogurt and a cup of mandarin oranges or other fruit make it top tier!
Pizza Lasagna Roll-Ups
Kids love pizza and this tasty pizza-lasagna hybrid can bemade ahead and used as a lunch box filler or served up with a salad for a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
1 tsp. Kosher salt (or more, to taste)
Italian seasoning, to taste
8 lasagna noodles
Olive oil, for tossing noodles
1½ c. ricotta
4 Tbsp. grated Parmesan
5 sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, finely chopped
1 c. fresh basil leaves, chopped
24 slices of pepperoni, chopped
1 c. marinara sauce
Preparation:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. (Tip: cook an extra noodle or two in case they tear) Drain and toss with olive oil. Drape noodles over edge of the pot, without overlapping, to cool. In medium bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, dried tomatoes, salt, and Italian seasoning. Add fresh basil and chopped pepperoni to mixture and stir to combine. Lay out noodles and evenly divide mixture on noodles, spreading from end to end of each noodle. Roll up and cut each roll in half to make 16 portions. Pack four pieces, ruffle-side up, in each lunch container and refrigerate. Pack 1/4 cup of marinara sauce in a separate container with each serving.
Shark Quesadillas
Make these toothy quesadillas ahead of time, then create a Shark-cute-ry Box by putting them in a lunch box with a side of goldfish crackers, Fruit Gushers snacks (especially the red ones!), and a Hawaiian Punch. Great for Shark Week viewing parties too!
Ingredients:
Two 8-inch flour tortillas
1/2 c. Mexican blend shredded cheese
2 slices jarred roasted red peppers, halved
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter
8 black olive slices
1/4 c. sour cream
Preparation:
Cut tortillas into quarters, then use a paring knife to trim each quarter to the shape of an arch with a pointed top. For the top tortillas, using the paring knife, in the bottom third of the arch in four of the tortilla pieces, cut out the jagged shape of a shark's mouth, about 1¼” wide and 3/4” tall. To assemble the tortillas, divide cheese among the four bottom tortillas. Place a strip of roasted red pepper across the bottom third of each bottom tortilla and arrange a top tortilla over it, so the red shows through the cutout mouths. Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange four quesadillas in the skillet and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 3 minutes per side. Set on a serving plate. Dip black olive slices in the sour cream and place 2 on each shark quesadilla for the eyes, using sour cream to make them adhere. Serve with remaining sour cream.
Sushi-Style Sandwiches
Kids love this creative way of serving up the usual sandwich. You can substitute any of their favorite condiments and different types of lunchmeat and cheese sticks.
Ingredients:
1 slice bread of your choice
Ranch dressing or mayonnaise
1-2 slices turkey lunchmeat
1 carrot, cut into thin sticks
1 cucumber, cut into thin sticks
1 cheese stick of your choice
Preparation:
Trim crusts from bread. Flatten bread with rolling pin. Spread bread with ranch dressing or mayonnaise. Top the bread with slice(s) of turkey, folded over or trimmed to be smaller than bread. (You’ll want a 1/4" piece of bread at the top with no meat to make the roll stick together.) Place a carrot stick and a cucumber stick at the bottom end of bread. Slice a cheese stick in half and place with carrot and cucumber. Tightly roll up sandwich from bottom to top, making sure veggies and cheese stick are snugly squeezed together. Once roll is tight, squeeze it firmly, and press along bread seam to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut straight through the roll into “coins.” Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
Wheelie Yummy Pasta Salad
Pasta salad makes a perfect lunch option. The wagon wheelshaped pasta and ham and cheese make this one a hit with kids.
Ingredients:
6 oz. wagon wheel pasta
1 c. very small broccoli florets
1/2 c. fresh corn kernels
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
3 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 oz. cheddar cheese, shredded
2 oz. thick-sliced ham, cut into small cubes
1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
1 Tbsp. chopped parsley
2 scallions, sliced
Preparation:
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. About 30 seconds before the pasta is done, add broccoli florets and corn kernels. Cook for 30 seconds, then drain into a colander. Run cold water over the pasta to stop cooking. Keep pasta draining in colander. To make dressing, whisk together garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Add fully drained pasta, broccoli, and corn to bowl, along with ham, cheese, tomatoes, parsley and scallions. Toss well to coat all pasta and broccoli with dressing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Add a Note!
Lunchbox notes are a sweet way to let your kidsknow you're thinking about them and provide some encouragement or a quick laugh or smile during the school day. You can buy pre-written notes with jokes or affirmation or create your own. A simple “I love you!” with a smiley face on a napkin goes far. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
• Give them a few words of encouragement if it’s a day with tests or tough assignments.
•Share a joke, riddle, or “word of the day.”
•Trade drawings. For example, you draw eyes and ask them to finish the face. Make feet and have them draw the monster they belong to.
•Look up the “National Day” or “This Day in History” and share something fun.
•Help them look forward to a later class, activity, or something special at home. “Remember, you have music in only 2 hours! You can make it!” or “Hope you’re having a great day, your favorite dessert is on the menu at dinner tonight.”
• Give them a question about their day to answer when they get home. (What is Mrs. D wearing today? What book is in the window at the library today?)
•Stickers are always a big hit for the younger kids too!
SNACK TIME
Crunchy Chickpeas
This crunchy treat will be your new go-to healthy snack. Whether you make them plain or spice it up, you’ll be grabbing them by the handful and wondering why you ever ate chips before!
Ingredients:
1 15-oz can low-sodium chickpeas, rinsed
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Kosher salt
**NOTE: You can add spices and seasonings, as desired (for savory: try Old Bay, seasoning salt, or paprika, for spicy/sweet, try cinnamon and sugar or chai spices)
Preparation:
Heat oven to 425°F. Pat chickpeas very dry with paper towels, discarding any loose skins. On a small, rimmed baking sheet, toss chickpeas with olive oil and 1/4 tsp. salt (and any additional spices or seasonings). Roast until crisp, 35 to 40 minutes. If not eating immediately, let cool completely, then store in an airtight container up to 1 week. To re-crisp, heat at 425°F for 8 minutes.
Apple Nachos
Peanuts and apples are a natural pair and give a little protein boost after a day at the desk. If peanuts are a problem in your home, you can easily substitute caramel topping for melted peanut butter, other varieties of granola, and other types of chopped nuts instead of peanuts.
Ingredients:
2 medium apples (Fuji or Granny Smith) 1/3 c. creamy peanut butter, melted 1/4 c. peanut butter granola 1/4 c. peanuts, crushed 1/4 c. raisins or chocolate chips
Preparation:
Cut apples into thin slices and arrange on a plate. Drizzle melted peanut butter over apple slices with a spoon, top with granola, raisins, and crushed peanuts. Serve with remaining melted peanut butter for dipping.
Rice Krispie treats meet Oreos. What more do you need
Ingredients:
18 Oreo cookies
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
4 c. Rice Krispies
Preparation:
Cookies & CreamCrispy Bars
Cream Crispy Bars
Oreos. say?!
1 10-oz. bag mini marshmallows
marshmallows nonstick
Coat an 8x8” baking dish with nonstick spray. Line pan with two crisscrossed pieces of parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides. Coat parchment with nonstick spray. Gently split all but two of the Oreos in half. Use a knife to scrape Oreo cream into a large microwave-safe bowl. Pulse cookie sections in a food processor until fine crumbs form, about 20 pulses. Add butter to bowl of Oreo cream and microwave on high until butter is melted, about one minute. Stir to combine. Add marshmallows and toss to coat. Microwave, stirring halfway, until marshmallows have melted, about two minutes. Working quickly, fold in Rice Krispies cereal and Oreo cookie crumbs until combined. Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Coat bottom of a flat-bottomed measuring cup with nonstick spray and use it to press mixture evenly into pan. Crush remaining two Oreos and sprinkle crumbs on top. Let cool completely, about 30 minutes. Cut into 18 squares.
ON-THE-FLY DINNERS
One Pot Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli
One pot recipes are always a great go-to for busy nights and we love our sweet white Wild Georgia shrimp!
1 lb. Wild Georgia shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-30 count)
2 tsp. lemon juice, plus more to taste
Toasted sesame seeds to garnish
Preparation:
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add half of the garlic and cook until beginning to brown, about a minute. Add broccoli, bell pepper, onionn and peas and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Cover and cook, stirring once or twice and adding a tablespoon water if pot is too dry, until vegetables are tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm. Increase heat to medium-high and add remaining tablespoon of oil to pot. Add remaining garlic and cook until beginning to brown, about a minute. Add shrimp and remaining 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper; cook, stirring, until shrimp are just cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes. Return the broccoli mixture to pot along with lemon juice and stir to combine. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve.
Tortellini Skillet
Italian made easy with pre-made tortellini and pasta sauce.
Ingredients:
1 pkg (20 oz.) refrigerated cheese tortellini
8 oz. bulk Italian sausage
1 jar (24 oz.) pasta sauce with mushrooms
1/2 c. shredded Parmesan cheese
8 oz. mascarpone cheese
Red pepper flakes
Preparation:
Prepare tortellini according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, 6-8 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain. Stir in pasta sauce and heat through. Drain tortellini, reserving 1 cup cooking water. Add tortellini to sauce with enough reserved cooking water to reach desired consistency. Toss to coat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and top with dollops of mascarpone cheese. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and additional Parmesan cheese.
Easy Burrito Bowls
Grab a rotisserie chicken and make these tasty burrito bowls that everyone can make with their own favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
1 c. jasmine rice
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 Tbsp. taco seasoning
15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1½ c. corn
1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 c. salsa, jarred or fresh pico de gallo
1 avocado, diced
1 medium tomato, diced
1/2 c. sweet onion, diced
1/2 c. green or red bell pepper, diced
1/2 c. shredded lettuce
sour cream cilantro jalepeños
Preparation:
Prepare rice according to package directions. With a fork, shred roasted chicken, place in a serving bowl and toss with taco seasoning.
Keep warm and set aside. Combine black beans and corn in a medium, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute or until heated through and season with salt, if desired. Place the remaining toppings into individual bowls. Grab a bowl and add a scoop of rice. Top with the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and your choice of toppings.
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
You don’t need to hit the fast-food driver-thru! If you have an airfryer at home, you can make these easy and delicious chicken nuggets in less than an hour.
Ingredients:
1 lb. chicken breasts, cut into 2 inch pieces
2 c. panko breadcrumbs
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. paprika
Preparation:
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 eggs
1/4 c. milk
olive oil cooking spray
In a small bowl, mix together the panko, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Set aside. Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dip a piece of chicken in the egg mixture until coated. Use a fork to transfer to the breadcrumb mixture and toss until coated, pressing to adhere. For thicker breading, dip the piece of chicken back into the egg mixture, then toss again in breadcrumb mixture. Spray air fryer tray with olive oil, and as you bread each piece of chicken, place into air fryer. Don't overcrowd air fryer or overlap chicken pieces. They should be barely touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in two batches. Once the air fryer is full, spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Flip the chicken halfway through cook time. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.
“School days, school days, dear old golden rule days, Readin' and 'ritin' and 'rithmetic, Taught to the tune of a hick'ry stick, You were my queen in calico, I was your bashful barefoot beau, And you wrote on my slate, I love you Joe, When we were a couple of kids.”
Words & Music by Gus Edwards and Will D. Cobb
KNOW YOUR 'CUE!
Barbecue, that is…or is it barbeque? The history of the word “barbecue” (the preferred proper spelling, according to dictionary sources) goes back to the indigenous people of North and South America. The Spanish word barbacoa was used to describe the slow cooking of meat over an open flame by the Taínos who inhabited Hispaniola, Jamaica and Cuba. But long before barbecue was even a word, it was a part of the culinary landscape. Archaeologists discovered that the diet of whoever built Stonehenge involved copious amounts of barbecue when traces of pork and beef were unearthed nearby. The term evolved from a description of the method of cooking to a word that covered an event where food was cooked outdoors in this way. In 1769, George Washington made mention of attending a “barbecue” in Alexandria, Virginia.
While America has whole-hearted embraced the low and slow manner of cooking, regional styles of barbeque have distinct differences. Because American barbecue first became popular in the South, where barbecue was made exclusively with pork, purists still claim that pork is the only true and authentic barbeque, but Texans disagree with that as strongly as they object to beans in their chili. After the Civil War and into the 20th Century, as Black Americans moved north, they brought the Southern barbecue tradition with them, and its popularity spread like wildfire. By the 1950s, there were Black-owned barbecue restaurants in just about every city in the U.S., and the different styles that emerged have made a smorgasbord of regional favorites.
Barbecue may not be the road to world peace,
but it's a start."
Anthony Bourdain
Since much of the difference is in the sauce, let’s dip a little deeper. Looking back at barbacoa as the origin, the first sauce was very simple. Records indicate that Dominican missionary Père Labat witnessed cooks using lime juice and hot peppers to season barbecued meat when he visited the French West Indies in 1698. In Mrs. Hill’s New Cook Book (1872), Mrs. Annabella Hill, from La Grange, Georgia, published the following barbecue sauce recipe: "Melt half a pound of butter; stir into it a large tablespoon of mustard, half a teaspoonful of red pepper, one of black, salt to taste; add vinegar until the sauce has a strong acid taste.” With instructions to “pour over the meat any sauce that remains” at the end of the cooking.
Nowadays, there are four major regional barbecue styles: Carolina, Memphis, Texas, and Kansas City. North Carolina and Virginia are thought to be where “whole hog” barbecue originated and use a vinegar-based “mop” sauce. In South Carolina, however, the sauce is mustard based. Memphis barbecue is also primarily pork and is known for its tangy thin tomato-based sauce. Kansas City boasts the most popular barbecue sauce, a thick ketchup-based brown sugarsweetened concoction that is applied to beef, pork, and poultry alike. The regional specialty is their burnt ends. Texas pitmasters generally dry rub their beef ribs and use a thin spicy, mop sauce to baste or marinate the beef brisket for which the state is so well known. We have stingy cattle barons and resourceful cowboys from the late 1800s to thank for the delicacy of slow-cooked brisket: the barons didn’t want to feed cowboys good cuts of meat, so they gave them brisket instead. The cowboys soon figured out if they cooked it for a long time over a low heat, it wasn’t just palatable, it was… awesome.
Kansas City, Missouri is the site of the world’s largest BBQ competition:
“THE WORLD SERIES OF BARBECUE.”
More than 500 teams compete, and it draws approximately 70,000 spectators. It is part of the larger American Royal event which spans 2.5 months and includes a parade and a professional rodeo (with a $300,000 prize package).
BARBECUE IS SCIENCE!
In New Orleans, one of the foremost experts on the subject of barbecue is Dr. Howard Conyers. This rocket scientist is also a whole hog pitmaster!He’s also the host of the PBS series Nourish, a food show that explores the science behind the foods we eat.
Entertainer and barbecue enthusiast
SMOKEY ROBINSON
was aptly named. His contract rider includes a request for a platter of barbecued chicken wings for himself, his vocalists, his dancers, his conductor, and his band members.
EVERYTHING’S BIGGER IN TEXAS! The state is the home of the
WORLD’S LARGEST BBQ PIT.
It serves up 8,000 lbs of meat, and sold for $350,000 on eBay.
PASSION FOR BBQ BURNS IN BRUNSWICK
Pitmaster Judd Foster has been “playing with fire” since he was a kid, making maple syrup in upstate New York. He turned a syrup kettle into a grill, entered a local barbecue competition under the name “Hootenanny’s,” and ended up beating a bunch of pros, fueling a passion and career. Luckily for the residents and visitors to the Golden Isles, Judd has brought that passion and a commitment to quality, consistency, and connection to Historic Downtown Brunswick. Judd and his wife, Kate, serve up craft barbeque and scratch-made regional fare at Hootenanny’s in the Yard.
Judd uprooted his Yankee roots and moved to Georgia, where he met and married Kate in Atlanta. For Kate, this also meant being married into the pitmaster life. They opened a barbecue joint, which won best barbecue accolades from two well-regarded publications, and Judd also taught classes for Big Green Egg. When the COVID years brought that opportunity to a close, good fortune smiled on the Golden Isles, where they relocated with their son, Charlie, and opened
South of Heaven BBQ. Located near the College of Coastal Georgia in Brunswick, South of Heaven quickly built an amazing following, but pressures of a small business led them to take a break in spring 2023.
Judd and Kate are now back at it in downtown Brunswick, across from the historic Glynn County courthouse, offering an authentic barbecue experience in the backyard of a quaint 150-yearold house. Kelly Hnatt, a local real estate developer and owner of BuildWise (buildwisega.com), moved to the neighborhood from St. Simons Island in 2021 with her husband, Brad Randall, a real estate broker, pursue revitalization of the old courthouse area.
BuildWise purchased the run-down home on Ellis Street that had been converted into lawyers’ offices.
BuildWise worked with Judd and Kate get the team back in business, leaning in on Judd’s roots with the name Hootenany’s. The doors of the “Hoot House” opened in January 2024. Judd’s smokers are set up in the
cute backyard, and the smell of live-fire cooking is quickly warming up this growing neighborhood. Judd and Kate are both inspired by and happy to be a part of the growing food and music scene downtown. They love the authentic and entrepreneurial vibe that flows at this quiet and quaint location, much like the squares in Savannah, or neighborhoods in Charleston and Atlanta.
Hootenanny’s menu is scratch-made to order. Offerings include traditional brisket, pork and chicken sandwiches, but the real crowd pleaser is the Hootenanny smoked brisket tacos. Popular specials are the birria tacos, house smoked pastrami Reuben, and brisket smash burgers. Sunday offers ever-changing brunch items, like hash brown casserole with egg and your choice of meat, and “redneck” biscuits, brisket, egg souffle and gravy. Sundays are also for meatloaf and ribs. All the sides, which include charro beans, esquites-style street corn, mac n’ cheese, smoked potato salad and “nana’s slaw,” are homemade. Hootenanny’s also always offers vegetarian and kids’ options.
Hootenanny’s has quickly become a family-friendly weekend destination. With the smokers going, live music, picnic tables, firepit for s’mores, backyard games, TVs to watch your favorite teams, and historic courthouse setting, the Hoot House is great place to hang out. Hootenanny’s has a wine and beer license, and offers a broad range of budget friendly options, craft beers, mimosas on Sundays, as well as specialty sodas and non-alcoholic sips. The Shake it Up Milkshake Truck shows up several times a month so you can round out your meal with one of their delicious and decadent frozen treats. What to start with if you’re a first-time visitor? The Fosters answer: “Definitely the smoked brisket tacos!” Try them topped with “taco candy” (Kate’s pickled onions), or go old school with the chopped white onions (Judd’s favorite). With the incredible menu selections offered, you can’t go wrong!
Smoker duty starts between 3- 5 am rain or shine, depending on the day’s cook. When asked what music he plays to get the day started, Judd says, “I ‘fire’ it up with music that go anywhere from classics like Ray Charles to Young Jeezy. If I need a little extra boost, I hit the heavy metal!” Judd credits Madison Ruckel, Pitmaster at Mama Jean’s in Roanoke, Virginia and Kyle Stallings, Pitmaster at Rollin” Smoke in Austin, Texas as inspiration for his cooking style that embraces old school but with an innovative twist. He’s leaned into their Tex-Mex influence and creative sides as well as their dedication to using the highest quality product. There’s nothing Judd and Kate love more than taking an old standby and putting a new spin on it, producing dishes like smoked pork belly ramen and brisket stroganoff. They also invite their staff to contribute recipes, and happily riff on what’s available at the produce stand. Smoked honey on rosemary butter biscuits? Yes, please! 1708 Ellis Street, Brunswick
Hootenanny’s also offers catering and custom BBQ experiences, both on and off site. Available menus include BBQ basics, an elevated “taco bar” and other specialty items, such as peach barbecue pork belly skewers. They can even bring a smoker and all the good stuff to your event location. From weddings to family gatherings, football tailgate parties to holiday dinners, they can craft a delicious menu that guests will be raving about long past the party’s end. Barbecue classes are also on the menu this fall, for all the budding pitmasters out there. Bottom line? The Fosters have stoked a fire downtown with their passionate approach to providing excellent food in an inviting and authentic atmosphere and it’s exciting to watch it build and grow. Treat your soul and your belly to some of the warmth that fires provides.
TRAIN WITH A MASTER
Valkyrie Prestige Kennels LLC (VPK) recently opened their doors in Brunswick to provide top notch dog training programs to the Golden Isles and surrounding areas. eir trainer is a Certi ed Master trainer who received his certi cation from Highland K9 Training School in North Carolina. Master Trainers go through longer, rigorous schooling to obtain the certi cation needed to train a wide array of dogs for multiple di erent purposes. Some examples would be obedience, behavior modi cation, therapy dogs, service dogs, tracking & trailing, mobility, autism, seizure, PTSD, police K9s, scent detection (drugs, bombs, bedbugs, etc.), search & rescue, and human remains detection. VPK provides structured board & train programs focusing on obedience and behavior modi cation. To learn more about VPK and their services, visit valkyrieprestigekennels.com, follow them on FB and Instagram, call 912.279.8179, or email valkyrieprestigekennels@gmail.com.
BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPS!
For the second year in a row, the Golden Isles has been named the #1 Best Islands in the U.S. in Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards! Golden Isles received this highest accolade in 2023 and 2020. is also marks the tenth consecutive year the Golden Isles has been ranked on the prestigious list of Best Islands in the U.S. e area is also recognized as #15 in the Best Islands in the World. To put this in perspective, there are over 18,000 islands in the U.S. alone and about 900,000 islands across the world. Each year, Travel + Leisure hosts its World’s Best Awards, which is conducted through a readership survey of over 186,000 respondents. e Golden Isles received its #1 status based on the area’s natural attractions and beaches, activities and sights, restaurants and food, people and friendliness, and overall value. ” is is an award we share wholeheartedly with our local hospitality industry as well as the community as a whole,” said McQuade. “Together, we make this amazing destination the best in the nation and across the world. is is something we can all be proud of,” said Scott McQuade, President & CEO of the Golden Isles CVB. For more information about the award or the Golden Isles and to download a Visitors Guide, visit goldenisles.com To access Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best lists, visit travelandleisure.com.
ONWARD & UPWARD AT BQK
e Brunwick Golden Isles Airport recently made the exciting announcement that starting October 7, the third daily Delta Connection ight will return. With the larger aircraft introduced last year and the return of the additional ight, passenger capacity will now be increased by 50% over pre-covid capacity. ey expressed their gratitude to Delta for their continued commitment to our community, saying “We are headed in the right direction. UP! Keep choosing BQK as your airport and we will keep working hard to increase your ight options. ank you for your continued support!” For more information and to see ight schedules, visit ygcairports.com.
LECTURE SERIES EXAMINES ELECTIONS
American elections have always been harbingers of change—not just of elected o cials, but of policies, attitudes, and how we as a nation conduct elections themselves. Coastal Georgia Historical Society’s 2024 Chautauqua Lecture Series will explore changemaking elections that had a signi cant impact, both in Georgia and for the U.S. Presidency in “Seasons of Change: Elections at Shaped Our National and State History”. On August 8, Scott Buchanan, Ph.D., will deliver a lecture titled, “Georgia’s Gubernatorial Election of 1946: e Triumph of Rural Georgia.” At the program on August 15, Laurence Jurdem, Ph.D., will present “A Parting of the Ways: eodore Roosevelt, Henry Cabot Lodge and the Presidential Election of 1912.” Award-winning historian Harold Holzer will deliver “Electing and Re-electing Lincoln: e Immigrant Impact in 1860 and 1864” on August 22. e nal program, on September 5, “1800 – America’s First Two-Party System Goes to the Polls” will be presented by Richard Brookhiser, another National Humanities Medal winner. e programs take place at St. Simons Presbyterian Church at 6:00 p.m. on ursday evenings, August 8, 15, 22, and September 5. ey will be available via live stream and recorded. Series cost is $50 for Society members and $95 for non-members. To register, visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.
WE ARE THE LORAX
We speak for the trees. Our community recently showed their commitment to the preservation of the island’s natural beauty in response to an announcement by the St. Simons Land Trust (SSLT) of a challenge grant o ered by Golden Isles Fund for Trees (GIFT) to protect the 300+ year old registered live oak “Old Ironsides” and other specimen live oaks at 2404 Frederica Road. In less than a week, more than 120 donors contributed $50,000+, greatly exceeding the $25,000 matching challenge. Now, with the generous GIFT grant, more than $75,000 has been secured to help the Land Trust acquire the lot and protect and maintain these majestic trees in perpetuity. After the house is razed, the property will be landscaped with native plants and these majestic trees will continue to be part of the island’s canopy to be enjoyed by everyone who walks, bikes, or drives down the Frederica Greenway. Well done, island lovers! For more information about the St. Simons Land Trust, its projects and protected properties, visit sslt.org.
FRIENDS OF FOUNDATION RAFFLE NOW OPEN
Buy a ticket to support a local charity of your choice and be entered to win a brand new 2024 GMC Terrain courtesy of Nalley Brunswick Automobiles (must be GA resident to win). Friends of Davis Love Foundation is a program administered by the Davis Love Foundation to help raise money for participating charities. Each participating charity sells ra e tickets ($20 each) for the chance to win a new vehicle from Nalley Brunswick Automobiles. For each ra e ticket purchased, the Foundation will return 100% of your purchase to the charity you choose plus an additional contribution! Charities will have until Friday, November 15, to sell ra e tickets and raise money for their organization. e drawing for the Grand Prize winner will take place during e RSM Classic in November. For more information, a list of participating charities, and to purchase ra e tickets, visit fotf.dlfvolunteers.com/ra e.
BACK TO SCHOOL BEDLAM
Come out to Brogen’s South on Sunday, August 18 for the annual Back to School BEDlam fundraiser bene ting Operation Bed Spread. ere will be all-you-can-eat wings, happy hour pricing on beer and wine, ra es, live music by e Tide Kings. Fun begins at 2:30 p.m. Event will be held rain or shine. Entry is $35 payable at the door. Help provide more kids with a good night’s sleep so they can have a successful school year.
A KISS IS JUST A KISS -- OR IS IT?
Brunswick Actors’ eatre presents Stage Kiss, a Comedy by Sarah Ruhl, directed by Jackie Archer. Art imitates Life. Life imitates Art. When two actors with a history are thrown together as romantic leads in a forgotten 1930s melodrama, they quickly lose touch with reality as the story onstage follows them o stage. Stage Kiss captures Sarah Ruhl’s singular voice; it is a charming tale about what happens when lovers share a stage kiss—or when actors share a real one. Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., August 10, 17, 24, and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. August 11, 18, 25. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets $25 per person. includes desserts and beverages. Student, teacher and military discounts with ID. soglogallery.com
RETURN OF THE CHURN
Save September 1 on your calendar for a date with deliciousness! e Ice Cream Churn-o at Ashantilly Center in Darien is making an eagerly anticipated return! is family-friendly event takes place at 4:00-6:00 p.m. and needs both competitors and tasters! If you’re itching to show o your creative culinary skills with some avorful frozen goodness, call and sign up to compete. Tasters, all you need to do is bring your chairs, adventurous tastebuds, and some cash to cover admission and any additional tastings or ra e tickets you’d like to purchase. In addition to the ice cream and ra e of local items, there will be free popcorn and lemonade, and live local music to enjoy. Proceeds from the churn-o bene t the care and upkeep of Ashantilly Center. For more information or to register to compete in the churn-o , call 912.437.4473 or visit ashantillycenter.org.
THE GOLDEN ISLES COMMUNITY RECENTLY MARKED THE MOMENTOUS OCCASION OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TORRAS CAUSEWAY. The day began with a Lights & Sirens Parade in Historic Downtown Brunswick and the festivities continued on St. Simons Island following a procession across the causeway. Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp, Congressman Buddy Carter, Mayor Cosby Johnson, other community leaders, and members of the Torras family were present to enjoy the pageant performances, music by Jekyll Island Big Band, the vendors marketplace, and fish fry at Gascoigne Park. It was a fabulous day!
BOTH LADY LIBERTY AND UNCLE SAM WERE ON HAND FOR THE ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY FESTIVITIES IN SEA PALMS. In addition to the annual parade with ribbons awarded, there was a stage performance of the national anthem and food trucks serving up hotdogs, ice cream and snow cone trucks. These folks sure know how to throw a patriotic party!
THE 4TH OF JULY GOLF CART PARADE IN PIER VILLAGE ORGANIZED BY ST. SIMONS BAIT & TACKLE INCLUDED 212 FESTIVELY DECORATED CARTS THIS YEAR! The participation fees for this event are donated to No Kill Glynn County and totaled $2,425. It was an impressive wave of seemingly never-ending red, white, and blue that made its way down Mallery Street!
THE 2024 GOLDEN ISLES ALZHEIMER’S WALK RETURNS TO ST. SIMONS ISLAND ON OCTOBER 26. The Georgia Alzheimer’s Foundation and other partners, sponsors, and participating team members gathered at Wolf Island Oyster Co. to kick off the fundraising campaign. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and cold drinks while hearing more about this year’s event and the services provided by its local beneficiary, Memory Matters Glynn. For information on how to participate, visit gaalz.org.
THE
OF
and a
HISTORIC HARRINGTON SCHOOL AND CULTURAL CENTER CONTINUED
CELEBRATION
ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A TASTE OF GULLAH. Attendees enjoyed delicious cuisine that captured the soul of our island’s Geechee Gullah culture and heritage, tours of the historic schoolhouse,
performance by the renowned Geechee Gullah Ring Shouters.
SPLENDID SUCCESS IS WHAT
A
WE’D CALL FIRST FRIDAY! Historic Downtown Brunswick has so much to offer in the evening the first Friday of each month. There’s after-hours shopping, community information booths and vendors, restaurants and food trucks offering tasty treats, live music, art at the galleries, and activities for kids too! C’mon out and catch the downtown vibe!
THE 8TH ANNUAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY LUNCH PRESENTED BY COLDWELL BANKER ACCESS REALTY BRUNSWICK WAS A SHOW OF APPRECIATION FOR THOSE WHO ARE ALWAYS THERE TO HELP US. Joined by co-sponsors Matted Ox Axe Throwing, and Cornerstone First Mortgage Coastal GA and members of the community, they treated first responders and their families to lunch and other goodies. Proceeds from this year’s event benefit the Brunswick Fire Department for the purchase of drones and equipment.
BLUE SKIES PEDIATRIC CANCER MINISTRY RECENTLY HELD A WEEKLONG FAMILY CAMP ON ST. SIMONS ISLAND. The activities culminated in a patriotic parade from Sea Palms to Village Creek Landing, cheered on by many neighbors, friends, and local firefighters who then awarded each child a hero’s medal. Many thanks to our local community for your support! (Photosprovided)
THE TERRY THOMAS FOUNDATION WITH HOST SUSAN GOODHUE RECENTLY HELD A LUNCHEON AT OCEAN FOREST GOLF CLUB ON SEA ISLAND FOR THIS YEAR’S GRANT RECIPIENTS. Twenty-one local non-profit organizations received a total of $635,000 from the Foundation, bringing the total of grants provided to local charities over the years to more than $7 million. It’s wonderful to see legacy of philanthropy established by this generous woman continue to positively impact our community. (Photosprovided)
Summer Showtime
For more than 25 years, the Little Theater of Brunswick provided both local actors and theatergoers with an exciting array of performances. In Voices from St. Simons, a collection of personal interviews about the island’s history, longtime area resident Bruce Faircloth recalled his involvement with the Little Theater. He first came to Brunswick as a ship fitter for the J. A. Jones Construction Company during World War II, staying in the area after the war ended.
The Little Theater of Brunswick was founded in 1931, and as Bruce remembered it, the organization made good use of the performance spaces it could find. Chief among those spaces was Glynn Academy’s Memorial Auditorium. Bruce noted that the auditorium was one of the few venues in the area that had a full basement below the stage. This could have been used for effects—instead, it contained a coal-fired furnace that powered the building’s radiators.
Bruce fondly recalled not only the space, but also the productions themselves and the people who made them successful. One of the first productions he was involved in was Arsenic and Old Lace, a 1941 Broadway hit written by American dramatist Joseph Kesselring. This drew Bruce’s interest because of fine arts courses he had taken at the University of Georgia. Bruce wasn’t alone in his attraction to amateur theatrics. He remembered that “there were other people in the county who were very interested in the performing arts from all backgrounds. There were schoolteachers and electrical, structural, and chemical engineers who worked at the Hercules Powder Company and at the pulp mill.” He also spoke about the participation of the McGarvey sisters— Virginia, Margaret, and Mary—who were all involved in different artistic pursuits in Glynn County.
This month’s images from the Coastal Georgia Historical Society include a program for the celebration of the Little Theater of Brunswick’s twenty-fifth season in 1956. Also featured is a promotional poster for the production of Arsenic and Old Lace in which Bruce Faircloth was involved. Both images were donated to the Society by Mary and Virginia McGarvey.
Coastal Georgia Historical Society presents this article and images from our archives as part of our mission “to connect people to Coastal Georgia’s dynamic history.” The Society operates the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and the World War II Home Front Museum, housed in the Historic Coast Guard Station at East Beach. To learn more about the Society, its museums, diverse programs, and membership, please visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.