Elegant Island Living April 2018 by Elegant Island Living Media Group

THE HOME & GARDEN ISSUE

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Don’t Be Put Off Putting It Off

ell, its April. This is the annual EIL Home & Garden issue. And that means it’s time again for the dreaded spring projects you’ve been putting off all winter. The “I’ll get to it when it’s warmer outside” excuse is no longer viable. All winter long you’ve been lying on your couch every Saturday morning, watching your favorite home improvement channel. After six hour-long episodes of home-buying/selling and renovation reality TV shows, you are now an “expert.” The problem is where to start! Watching someone on TV remodel a 4,500 sq. ft. home, including adding a pool and landscape, in 30 minutes is one thing. Trying to put together and hang the bird-feeder your in-laws gave you for Christmas in 30 minutes is another thing. Procrastination is actually the way your body and mind tell you that you need to focus on another task. It’s like the secret guide that points the direction to what is really important in life. I bet you thought procrastinators are all the same. In fact, there are different types. Here are some you might recognize: The Busy Procrastinator: This one loves to

complain how busy they are. They are always complaining how they cannot possibly find time to complete the work they are procrastinating on. The List Maker Procrastinator: This type of

procrastinator plans out every little thing and every step of the process of the project, but never starts the project, much less completes it. The Over Doer Procrastinator: This type goes

THE SHOPS AT SEA ISLAND Monday - Saturday 10-6 638-1776 8

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

all out and becomes involved not in one project, but in several at once. Of course, none of the projects ever end up getting completed. Most of us have a neighbor who fits this description.

The Dreamer Procrastinator: This procrasti-

nator has good intentions but gets lost along the way. It’s not that they don’t want to do the work, they just find it much more pleasant to dream about the results then to actually follow through with them. And finally, there is my favorite, The Chronic Procrastinator: Most people can identify with

this type, because they are the kings and queens of putting stuff off. The Chronic Procrastinator has a major time management issue and a tendency to grossly underestimate how much time something will take. They always believe they have “plenty of time!” to finish that project they are tasked to complete. There’s a cognitive bias called “Sunken Cost Fallacy” that applies to procrastination. When we put time or money into something, our brains think, “Ok, that’s it. Now I HAVE to finish this.” How many times have you been watching a terrible movie or TV series on Netflix and instead of walking out or changing the channel, you say to yourself, “This is terrible, but I might as well keep watching because I’ve seen an hour of it already.” We’ve all been there, right?! Of course, we procrastinators lie to ourselves about why we are not working at this very moment. “I don’t feel like doing it right now, but I’ll do it later, when I’m more in the mood.” Or maybe, “It’ll be okay. Even if I don’t finish this now, what’s the worst thing that can happen?!” And MY go-to line: “I work best under pressure and I’m much more productive, so I’m just going to wait until the last minute to get to work on it.” I’ll get to it right after I take down my Christmas tree… .

PUBLISHER

David Butler

Elegant Island Living is published monthly. Reproduction of any photographs, artwork, or copy prepared by Elegant Island Living is strictly

ART DIRECTOR

Beth Rowen

prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. The advertisers and publisher are not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors. All electronic

E D I T O R I A L A N D S O C I A L MEDIA DIRECTOR

Kathi Williams 912.399.8797

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Terry McCarthy 912.399.3699

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B A I L E Y B OYS .CO M

Senior Account Manager 912.634.3856 (h) / 770.490.3348 (m)

Molly Duckworth Regional Media Sales 912.506.1115

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She’s special, so let us make her something special this Mother’s Day.

Marketing Consultant 770.713.9011

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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: 912.506.3625

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alysia English

Cunningham Jewelers B E AU T I F U L

•

E L E GA N T

•

T I M E L E S S

The Golden Isles Premier Jeweler S I N C E

1510 Newcastle Street • Brunswick 912.265.8652 / cunninghamjewelers.com 10

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1 9 1 6

www.elegantislandliving.net

Ben Lee CO N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R

Nick Toth, The Darkroom

On the Cover: Rebecca Robinson Davis and Rob Robinson enjoy the outdoor ambience of this stunning home at 127 Cypress Point, SSI which is listed for sale with Phoebe Hoaster and Signature Properties (912.270.5730). You can see more of the house on page 16. Visit signaturepropertiesgroup.com for more details. Cover Photo by Nick Toth, The Darkroom

16 54 44 HOME

GA R DEN

SPECIA L

SECTI O N

F I N A N C E

58 Fifty Shades of Fraud

16 Embrace Your Space

contents

ACCO MP L I S H ME N TS EVENTS

60 A Stellar Sweep

40 Celebrating 90 Years 44 Tea Time

62 Business Buzz

54 Juleps, Jockeys & a Jeep 56 Gardens & Galas

68 What’s Happening

Celebrating �1 Years in Business

72 Social Scene PHI LAN TH R O PY

48 More than a Decade of Dedication 50 Comrades in Arms

94 Real Estate 132 SSI Archives

28 Market Street, Suite 124 St. Simons Island, GA 912.638.5100

APRIL 2018

APRIL IS HERE and it’s time to throw open the windows, get out in the yard, and celebrate springtime. Whether you’re making (or looking for) a new nest or relaxing retreat for your family, re-energizing your living areas with a renovation or a seasonal makeover, or planning yard projects and gardening, in our annual Home & Garden feature, we encourage you to embrace your space. From the inside out, your home should be a reflection of you and should fit your lifestyle too. We’ve gathered information and tips from local professionals to help inspire, educate, and guide you. Find your favorite cozy nook or spot in the sun and let us help you feel at home.

PHOTOGRAPH BY NICK TOTH, THE DARKROOM

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Thank you to the owners of this lovely house for sharing their beautiful property with us. The home is listed for sale with Signature Properties at signaturepropertiesgroup.com. ACE Garden Center supplied the florals, while chairs, glasses and home accessories were provided by Dutchmans Casual Living. Thanks to Rebecca Robinson Davis and her brother, Rob Robinson, our models, for jumping in at the last minute and braving the wind and the cold. Rebecca’s hair and make-up were styled by Kristen Davis and Rebecca Wynn of B. Lush Salon and Ronne’s on Market Street supplied her attire. Rob’s shirt is from Gentlemen’s Outfitters.

APRIL 2018

Are you remodeling your kitchen or starting fresh in

a new house? Determining where to spend can be a difficult task. The first thing a designer will do is make sure the budget is reasonable to accomplish the client’s goals and scope of work. Once there is a layout in place, plans

SPLURGE

Splurge or Save PLUMBING FIXTURES Your faucet is a big statement in your kitchen. It’s one of the first things people see, plus you use it every day. Get one that you love to look at, and that you love using. I believe in making washing dishes as pleasant as possible. Be careful to check quality, solid brass construction is the way to go.

can be made with the contractor or any subs involved and work can commence with the budget in mind. At this stage,

WATERSTONE FAUCETS

decisions can be made areas to be able to splurge in others to achieve the desired final results. Jennie Moseley, owner of Simmer & Soak, shares her tips on which items are okay to go simple and save some cash and where splurging would be best.

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

SAVE

whether to save in any

CABINETS Maybe you love a limewaxed French oak for your kitchen but can’t afford to do it. Instead, install a simple white manufactured cabinet for the perimeter and spend your money on a custom island in oak so you can still have the finish you love as a centerpiece.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS

SPLURGE SAVE SPLURGE

BACKSPLASH This is my favorite. You can get a lot of bang for your buck with a backsplash. Don’t just opt for the standard 4” piece they want you to do with the countertop; that’s NEW RAVENNA just so they don’t have to worry about any gaps with your wall. Even if you can’t do it right now, leave it off and come back and do it right when you can afford it.

COUNTERTOPS Countertop pricing is all over the place. Sure an exotic marble would be gorgeous, but if you have an amazing backsplash, a simple white quartz countertop can be the best complement for it.

SAVE

ATLAS HARDWARE

BUSTER & PUNCH HARDWARE

CABINET HARDWARE This is an area people often skimp on. Usually it’s the last thing you order and you’re already broke and over budget. But hardware can make or break a grand kitchen remodel. Spend a few extra dollars per piece and get something that is going to last and that you love. Remember mixing finishes is A-OK, and brass is back, baby.

APPLIANCES This is a huge area where you can cut costs. Everyone wants the look of commercial appliances, even in kitchens where they don’t cook. If you don’t cook, don’t spend all your money on a fabulous range. You can blow your whole budget on a single appliance.

If you’re looking for help with your project, the team at Simmer & Soak can help you order hardware and light fixtures, consult with you on custom cabinetry and countertops, select tile from their exclusive brands, or coordinate with builders to interpret and implement your bespoke kitchen design into a new construction or remodel project. They will expertly manage your project and construction from start to finish. 8 Market Street (next to Taylor House Interiors)

| 912.268.4210 | email: Jennie@simmerandsoak.com | simmerandsoak.com

APRIL 2018

Unlocking Your Dreams

pring means new growth in the real estate market. The agents and staff of Duckworth Properties work together like family. President and Broker LeAnn Duckworth and Associate Broker Hannah Melton ARE family. This mother-daughter duo is committed to upholding a standard of excellence for the benefit of their clients and their community, and they have assembled a team of agents who ALL share that philosophy. Driven and dedicated, these ladies know their stuff! As

local residents who are familiar with what the Golden Isles has to offer, LeAnn and Hannah are undoubtedly experts in the real estate industry.While they can sell ANYTHING from farm land to luxury homes, designing a new construction home is also a part of their expertise. 20

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The reputation of this family owned business has been built on a portfolio of transactions that result in long term relationships and referrals. In 2017, Duckworth Properties Sales Professionals had another astronomical year, having sold over $96 million in sales with a combined 533 transactions. Through her commitment to excellence and personal service, LeAnn is known as a highly regarded Realtor in the Golden Isles. Voted Best Agent of 2014 and 2017 by Elegant Island Living, she has also held Circle of Excellence status since 2001. Over the past 18 years, LeAnn has gained an extensive amount of knowledge through her successful sales, developments, and investments. In 2017, LeAnn personally sold over $29 million and had more than 190 transactions. With her knowledge, you are sure to have all the resources and expertise to market your home effectively and gain the most exposure. LeAnn doesn’t work in the name of listings, showings, contracts, or closings; She works in the name of SERVICE for those she employs and for those that employ her.

LeAnn believes the true success of an agent isn’t measured in numbers, it is measured in time and service of others. LeAnn started her own company over 12 years ago and has established her practice to be one of the most prestigious, female-owned companies in Glynn County. But don’t think that LeAnn sits in a chariot while her employees pull her around, she is the lead horse showing them the way, both ethically and dutifully. A good leader isn’t defined by what they say; they are defined by what they do. As for her leadership, LeAnn will ask you to run 5 miles only if she has just finished running 10. In her spare time, LeAnn enjoys taking in refugee animals and strays at her farm. She currently has injured deer that she has nurtured back to health and they have remained her “deer” fur-babies. Hannah was born, raised, and has lived here in the Golden Isles for over 30 years. At the age of 18, Hannah acquired her Georgia real estate license, and she obtained her Georgia Broker’s license at the young age of 21. Upon graduating from Georgia Southern University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s in Business Management & Finance, she began her career in real estate with Duckworth Properties. Hannah’s background in finance along with her superior knowledge of the local market makes

her a single point of contact for all your home buying needs. Hannah is a top producing agent within the firm maintaining a ranking within the industry and surpassing quotas. While securing her own buyers and sellers, Hannah also acts as the firm’s Rental Property Manager, Bookkeeper, and Advertising Executive. In 2017, she reached over $9.6 million in sales! When Hannah is not working with buyers and sellers to find their next dream home, you can find her with family and friends enjoying the outdoors. Although they are a small company, the Duckworth Properties professionals carry their weight. With 17 Sales Associates, LeAnn and her staff are dedicated to listening to your needs and to serving you with honesty, integrity, and professionalism. LeAnn reminds her sales team daily that “Success is a mixture of having a flair and passion for hard work and a sense of purpose.” Reliability is a cornerstone of the firm’s foundation. Built on the principles of trust and honesty, Duckworth Properties emphasizes the importance of having the integrity to do the right thing, always considering the client’s needs to be paramount. LeAnn firmly believes that Duckworth Properties’ success is ultimately determined by the legacy they leave with each client they serve. She says, “We pledge to always give clients our best effort. Our goal is to make every real estate transaction a rewarding experience for our clients.”

The Longs can attest that LeAnn herself meets that goal, saying, “Without question, LeAnn is the most capable and professional realtor we’ve ever worked with. No wonder her sales records are off the charts! She will get back to you immediately, handles your sale or purchase as if it were her own, and covers all the bases. Working with LeAnn, you’ll get a realistic appraisal of your property, and you’ll receive timely communications on the activity associated with the property. In addition, she’s extremely pleasant, a delight to be with, and makes you feel like a friend as well as a client. LOVED this opportunity to work with her and Duckworth Properties.”

much of the anxiety out of the process as a whole. I’ve never had texts returned to me so quickly in my life (and at all hours)! She has such a vast knowledge of the area (she grew up here!), home layouts, potential pitfalls, and even “do’s and don’ts” during the inspection process, not to mention she had a recommendation for EVERY kind of professional required during the buying process (and each one of them was excellent too – which even further reflects positively on her!). Hannah seriously is a master of her craft, and to say I would HIGHLY recommend her without reservation to any and every person looking to purchase a new home in her network is, again, an incredible understatement.”

And Hannah’s rave review from the Jordans is no less impressive:

Whether your move is across the street, the state, or the country, Duckworth Properties Sales Agents are ready and willing to help you unlock your dreams and the doors to your new home.

“We just recently moved to St. Simons Island from Columbia, SC and had the pleasure (and I sincerely mean pleasure) of working with Hannah Melton as our agent. I honestly believe we couldn’t have been luckier to have stumbled upon her (well, we didn’t actually just STUMBLE upon her – we chose her based on her outstanding track record and experience). Coming from someone who is maybe just a little OCD and type A, my saying that Hannah was so ridiculously impressive is an understatement. She seriously made me feel like I was her only client, and paid such acute attention to my every question and concern throughout the entire process (which face it, can be daunting when purchasing a new property) that she took so

Mainland Office: 3441 Cypress Mill Road, Suite 203 912.262.0366

St. Simons Island Office: 1607 Frederica Road, Suite 103 912.342.4002

LeAnn Duckworth 912.266.7675 leann@duckworthproperties.com

Hannah Melton 912.269.7512 hannah@duckworthproperties.com

APRIL 2018

Your Lifestyle, Your Design

hile visiting St. Simons Island, a couple from Athens, GA walked into the Dutchmans store and fell in love with the furniture they had in stock. They loved it so much and were so thrilled to find out that in-home consulting and design services were offered that they asked Owner/ 22

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Creative Director Stephanie Nieuwendijk-Bramble to help them with their home in Athens. Just take a look at the finished project! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have that same kind of result in your home? Look at your lifestyle. Does your home reflect it? Do you need something more kid-friendly? Or have the kids all left the nest, and now you’d like to upgrade to a more sophisticated look? This is where Stephanie and the other designers at Dutchmans can help. Get inspired by looking around the Dutchmans store. Each space is

set up like a living room, a kitchen, or a bedroom, and is arranged to look comfy, cozy and inviting. Those rooms are filled with products from home accessories and furniture to upholstery that Stephanie has chosen at market solely to reflect Dutchmans’ style and quality. Her years of experience and personal taste in style create the looks in the stores and everything is set up to give you as a customer the context of how it will look in a home. Dutchmans offers three different in-home consulting design services to cover every type of job: one or two rooms; 3 rooms plus; and “from the ground up.” As Stephanie says,

“No job is too big or too small!” Dutchmans’ designers can consult with you and work to simply pull a room together and organize it, or, on the other end of the spectrum, they can

the store and present you with a Pinterest-like design board for you to review and narrow in on your design style. The designer will provide suggestions and guidance via email and text on

If you’re a builder or realtor, consider using Dutchmans’ in-home design services to stage homes for sale. They recently worked with a local builder on the sale of his home in Wildlife Preserve and the photo below is a terrific example of what they can do for you to create an attractive space that’s inviting to buyers. Design services and scope of work in the “From the Ground Up” In-Home Package will determine the cost. Once the designer and client have met and gone over blueprints, pricing will be established. Their designers work on projects out of four locations: in Georgia, St. Simons Island and Chamblee; in North Carolina, Cornelius and Highlands. Working with Dutchmans’ designers also means you receive discounts in store. So when you add finishing touches like wall

be with you all the way from start to finish of the design process with builders. They will not only help choose and customize furniture and accessories to suit your style from their inventory, but can also help with paint colors, window treatments, floor coverings, etc. Their passion and goal is to really make your house a home, with a touch of Dutchmans style. And although there are standard in-home packages, this process is not cookie-cutter by any means, it’s unique to each individual from the design process to the pieces that are purchased. Everything is tailored specifically to the customer as the Dutchman designers find the best way to help you and match your style. Say it’s time to change the nursery and playroom into a home office and reading room, choose the 1 or 2 Rooms In-Home Package. You’ll get a 2 hour initial consultation at your home with a Dutchmans designer who assesses your style and needs, reviews the budget for the project, takes measurements, and suggests rearrangement of furniture or accessories that might be helpful in the present situation. The designer will then communicate with you from

paint color, finish options, flooring, and tile. Once furniture is agreed upon, the designer will order. Installation and delivery is optional. If you choose, and for an additional charge, the designer and delivery team can come to your home for installation of the furniture and placement of accessories. If you’re starting from scratch with a new build, completely renovating, or need assistance with more than two rooms, you’d want to choose the 3 Rooms Plus In-Home Package. For example, transform that dated nautical-themed beach cottage you just purchased into the lush tropical paradise you envision. Replace wicker with woods, navy and white with bright color, and find flooring and décor to match your style. In this package, you’ll receive 2-4 hours of consultation with the designer, but the rest of the process is similar to the 1-2 Room In-Home Package.

décor, lamps, and cute embellishments for the guest bathroom or the patio bar, you’ll save on those too. Let Dutchmans help you create a design that fits and reflects your lifestyle. Call or visit the Dutchmans store at 505 Beachview Drive on St. Simons Island, 912.634.2764, to get started or visit their website at dutchmansdesigns.com.

APRIL 2018

PHOTOGRAPHS BY HARLAN HAMBRIGHT

Invest in Your Outdoor Living Space

e’ve all heard the term “curb appeal.” Your home’s landscape can affect its value either positively or negatively. The team at Bell Outdoor wants you to understand the importance of horticultural sound design, installation, proper maintenance, and the impact all elements have on curb appeal when selling or renting real estate. Think of it as marketing your home from the outside. The purpose of your landscape and outdoor space is to create an environment for your personal enjoyment as well as to enhance the curb appeal which increases the value of your home. According to statistics, good landscape design can increase the market value of a home as much as 10-12%. Lawn and Landscape Magazine estimates that appraisal value can increase 5-25% with quality landscaping. An appraiser takes a “holistic 24

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

approach,” so it’s more than just itemized features of landscape that add value. The entire property needs to be cohesive for a buyer to see value. Bell Outdoor President & Founder Faulkner Bell agrees, “Not only as a horticulturist, but as a homeowner with interest in real estate, the first impression I receive from a property’s appearance makes all the difference in the world when buying. It truly is the first thing a buyer sees when they drive up to look at a home or commercial space to purchase or rent, and it immediately provides a vast amount of information.” He explains, “As a buyer, if a home’s outdoor space is attractive and has been well maintained, chances are the remainder of the home has been equally cared for. As a tenant, certainly anyone would prefer to rent a space (residential or commercial) that is attractive and provides an enjoyable environment to live or work. If a property has no well-planned landscape and has been neglected, that will lead to an additional

expense the buyer will incur to create functional, enjoyable living space for their family.” Where do you start if you want to increase your home’s curb appeal? First and foremost, hire a professional. Assess the property and its current condition. What corrective measures need to be taken to bring the property to a “maintainable” level? What improvements or enhancements need to be made to provide functionality, enjoyment, curb appeal, and a return on your investment? When assessing the landscape and outdoor living space of your property, you should focus on design sophistication, plant selection and location, and the diversity of plant material. Once the existing landscape is assessed, create a plan. An implemented professional plan for landscape design provides a more polished look

than a bunch of hodgepodge plantings. Aside from plants, consider what your primary use of the outdoor space will be, room by room so to speak. Are you looking to simply improve its overall aesthetics or to make better use of the space for outdoor living and entertaining? Outdoor patios, water features, private gardens, and fire features are popular because of our mild winters and gorgeous natural surroundings. Even simply adding a clear sense of direction, focal points, and color can create a more pleasant first impression. Designing your outdoor spaces to take advantage of attractive natural features of this area can vastly improve a home’s value. Once the design and improvements have been made, one of the most important factors in preserving your investment is proper maintenance. Maintenance is key to protecting your investment, so be honest with yourself about your capacity to maintain the property. Do you know all the proper horticultural techniques? If not, you need to seek professional services to maintain your investment on a routine basis. According to Turf Magazine, “Maintenance is a no-brainer. If you don’t do it properly or pay a professional to do it, you’re going to be paying a lot more when it comes time to sell in order to turn things around. It’s more cost effective and less stressful to maintain all along – plus you get to enjoy it.” They add, “A home that looks like it has been well-maintained over the years also sells better. If buyers see a messy landscape, they may also lose confidence in the quality of the rest of the home.” When seeking maintenance services, it is vital that you hire knowledgeable horticulture professionals. “Mow, blow, and go” services may cost you money in the long run to correct damage caused by improper maintenance practices. A cheap and easy short-term solution is not the

best approach to protect your investment in your property. While monetary value is an important consideration, the value of personal enjoyment is paramount. Your home should be a beautiful place for you to enjoy and create memories, and this includes your outdoor space for entertaining. Your yard should be an extension of the living space of your home, a place to play, create, and enjoy. It should reflect the pride you have in your home. Bell Outdoor is a privately-owned firm located on St. Simons Island, specializing in landscape design/ build installation services, along with a highly selective portfolio of full-service residential landscape maintenance customers. They are passionate about creating and enhancing outdoor spaces that are comfortable, functional, and of the highest quality. Faulkner Bell, an Auburn University alumnus, horticulturist, and agronomist, is also a certified concrete paver installer through Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute. The Bell Outdoor team is dedicated to providing a seamless experience for their clients from beginning to end. Their mission is to transform every client’s dream into reality. With more than 100 years of combined team experience, you can trust them to complete your outdoor jobs and exceed expectations. By providing unrivaled quality and customer service, their team of highly skilled horticultural professionals will provide superior value to your home. They seek to establish and maintain long-term relationships through their attention to detail, direct communication, and their desire to exceed expectations. Margaret Hunt raves about her great experience working with Bell Outdoor. “When I first arrive on Sea Island, I am always in awe of how

beautiful it is to approach my cottage. The yard, flowers and trees always look fabulous and well maintained. Since Bell Outdoor took over our yard, it has taken on a new beauty. Whether a tree needs trimming, flower beds need weeding, gutters need cleaning, windows need washing, or a pool needs a new surface, they notice. They are very detail oriented and quick to take on any home-related task that needs attention. I cannot tell you how many items have been brought to

my attention that other companies before had overlooked. They have handled so many things for us, way beyond just a landscape firm! I would highly recommend them as the most talented landscape firm in the Golden Isles.” Bell Outdoor’s enhancement services include, but are not limited to, landscape and hardscape design build installation, stormwater management solutions, full service residential landscape maintenance, landscape lighting, irrigation design and implementation, tree care, landscape enhancement, full service residential property management, and horticultural consultation. They work with only the highest quality products to provide exceptional service to their customers. For more information, you can stop by their showroom at 411 Arnold Road on St. Simons Island, visit their website at belloutdoorllc.com, call their office at 912.689.8527 or find them on Facebook or Instagram. The Bell Outdoors team exemplifies Quality from Passion.

APRIL 2018

Update Your Outdoor Décor

ince it’s outdoor entertaining season, EIL checked in with Pierce & Parker Interiors because they have the largest outdoor furniture showroom on the island and, no matter what your style, you can find something there to create your perfect al fresco dining or patio space. They told us of a recent job they had assisting a client in updating her current look: Their client, Louise, was stumped. She knew that she didn’t like her current outdoor seating area, but she didn’t quite know why. The Pierce & Parker staff was able to identify some problems. For one, everything was super “matchymatchy.” Her old teak furniture had teak end tables and a teak coffee table. Her cushions looked boring, dated and faded. And, perhaps more importantly, it wasn’t functional! When her whole family came to visit, there wasn’t room for everyone to sit around together, especially with the grandkids. It just didn’t work. At Pierce & Parker Interiors, they hear stories like Louise’s all the time. People are thinking about their outdoor areas in totally different ways than they did 5-10 years ago, and are using their porches, decks, and patios as true extensions of their living space. They’re spending more time outside, so they want to be just as comfortable and stylish outdoors as they are indoors. Outdoor furniture has evolved to meet those needs. Outdoor sofas and chairs are offered in a broad array of trendy Sunbrella fabrics that

dry quickly and hold up beautifully in outdoor settings. Cushions and frames have improved dramatically as well, to the point that outdoor sofas and chairs can be every bit as comfortable as indoor furniture. And it’s built to last too. Lee Industries uses marine-grade wood frames and antimicrobial cushions for all their outdoor upholstery. Another trend they see at Pierce & Parker Interiors is that customers and designers are beginning to mix in a broader range of different finishes and fabrics into a single space, just like they do indoors. Instead of matching teak furniture with teak end tables and a teak coffee table, they’re bringing together upholstery, teak, aluminum, wicker, concrete, and stone finishes to create some stunning spaces. Interior Design has truly moved outdoors! Pierce & Parker designer Jessica Moore worked with Louise to update her space. Her first goal was creating a larger seating area. She set the stage with a fun Dash & Albert rug in a neutral

color, then combined a wicker sofa and swivel rockers from Lloyd Flanders with some adorable upholstered chairs from Lee to provide seating for 10-12 people. Her main color was a soft blue, but she used four different coordinating fabrics to create a cohesive but visually interesting space. She mixed in some fun aluminum and stone-topped occasional tables from Summer Classics to finish out the space. Jessica also worked with Louise to create a chat area around a fire pit with high-quality composite Adirondack chairs from Seaside Casual. Finally, she put some Brown Jordan chaises with coordinating lumbar cushions around the pool. If you are looking to update your outdoor space, stop in Pierce & Parker Interiors at 3413 Frederica Road to check out the offerings from the largest outdoor furniture showroom on St. Simons Island. They would love to help you re-envision your space! You can also visit their website at pierceandparkerinteriors.com.

APRIL 2018

A SCIENTIFIC SOLUTION “If your lawn’s not terrific… call Scientific!”

cientific Turf, Inc. offers much more than just a cute catch-phrase. This wellestablished business has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and can assist you with all aspects of your residential or commercial landscape, from designs and installations to lawn and shrub spraying packages and mosquito control programs. If you weren’t aware, lawn, shrub, and tree maintenance can be a year-round undertaking, with weed and disease control, aeration, and even ongoing landscape design. Scientific’s trained and licensed techs deliver for you spring, summer, fall, and winter. You can look to Scientific to protect your landscape. They can provide lawn spraying services that are customized for your unique landscape 28

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

and then keep your grass healthy with irrigation. If you’re looking to enhance your property, you can work with Scientific’s expert landscape designers to create a customized landscape that perfectly meets your needs for both residential and commercial property. To accent your landscape, Scientific offers LED lighting and hardscapes that add both value and functionality to your property. Scientific believes that there is nothing more calming than looking out over a lush green yard. Clark Hendley, President of Scientific Turf, Inc., B.A. Agronomy Turf Management, UGA 1985, says, “Your lawn is more than just dirt and grass…it’s an extension of your home. Your connection to nature, your escape. When your lawn or grass is healthy and green, it invites you to kick off your shoes, lie back and lose yourself in its simple perfection. He offers up his company’s vast

experience in lawn care to take you there with free estimates and no contracts for service. For lawn spraying services, Scientific uses a wide array of chemicals, such as fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides in customized programs designed for the unique needs of your landscape to ensure that all grass and other plant material on your property is healthy and lush. With their affordable spraying program, and reliable lawn treatments, you

can rest assured that your property will be properly taken care of throughout the year. Spraying will allow you to say goodbye to unsightly weeds, lawn diseases, and insects that contribute to the deterioration of your lawn. Maintaining a lush lawn through irrigation is also part of the service that Scientific can provide. Whether you’re looking to update your current sprinkler system or you need to start with a brand new irrigation system, Scientific has the knowledge and equipment required to carry out large or small irrigation projects. From personal gardens to commercial properties, they ensure that your irrigation job will be handled with the utmost care. Sprinkler installations, repairs, and drainage solutions are all part of the services Scientific has available. They can also provide contractfree services beyond your typical lawn care with integrated pest management. Professional services by Scientific Turf allow you to protect your property and keep it healthy and mosquito free. Their trained technicians can customize a program using the latest and most effective insecticides available that caters to the unique needs of your property. They even guarantee the results! Mosquitos are a natural part of life in Southeast Coastal Georgia, but you can say goodbye to mosquito problems today by calling Scientific. Using a deep knowledge of common mosquito species, Scientific can effectively control mosquitoes throughout your

property. Before treatment, they address all areas of your yard and residence or building, such as any areas that may contain water (gutters, containers, flower pots, garden décor) that can contribute to mosquito proliferation. Once they determine which mosquito species they need to combat, Scientific uses the most effective mosquito control treatment available. Their lawn care associates are licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and are trained to know the right product to apply at the right time to effectively rid your property of mosquitos. They will design a customized treatment plan to control these blood-thirsty pests while promoting the overall health of your property. The best mosquito treatments vary for every property Scientific treats, since the state, location, and landscaping of each property is different. They’ll first do a walk-through of the property to assess its condition and will then mix a customized blend of the right treatment products that will address all the specific needs of your property. They can also provide one-time treatment for special events (birthday parties, holiday gatherings, weddings, etc.). There is no contract required, and you can cancel at any time. Scientific is also currently offering mosquito control programs for $49 for your first treatment (some restrictions apply). Whether you’re looking for comprehensive landscaping services,

lawn spraying, or mosquito control, don’t hesitate to call Scientific Turf, Inc. today to address your needs. Don’t take our word for it though, testimonials from their customers speak volumes. Ken and Nancy K. sing Scientific’s praises, saying, “If you told me six months ago our lawn would look anything like this, I simply wouldn’t believe it. Each time a treatment is done, within days the lawn looks spectacular. Thank you!” Chuck M. in Savannah raves about their service, “I cannot tell you how pleased I am with the results. When I have a fungus or bug breakout, I shoot Eric a text and he gets his team out there within a day or two at most. And, I never feel like I’m bothering him. It is always a joy talking with him. Issue solved. And, they don’t use a one-size-fits-all solution program i.e. whatever is on the truck goes on your lawn. They stop by, take a look, diagnose the problem, then mix up what they need to get MY job done right. Cannot ask for any more than that. If this sounds like a glowing endorsement for Scientific Turf, you read this right.”

512 Ocean Boulevard St. Simons Island, GA 31522 912.634.9977 www.mulletbayrestaurant.com Live Music on the Deck

Check out the Scientific Turf website at scientificturf.com for more information about their services, special offers and coupons, and more reviews of Scientific and its techs, or call 912.262.9828 to get your free estimate today.

APRIL 2018

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Live Your Dream

ith American Dream SSI, Inc. you don’t have to dream of paradise – you can live there! Whether you are looking to permanently move to St. Simons Island or you want to establish a personal vacation home, American Dream SSI, Inc. has the local expertise and industry experience to help you. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is the American Dream, and the local real estate firm using that as its name truly believes in making the most of those things. It is their goal to help people live their best life, escape from the confines of their usual routine, and enjoy their stay on Georgia’s breathtaking coast. For more than 10 years, American Dream SSI, Inc. has worked with clients from throughout the nation, helping them find beautiful properties to vacation in and establish new homes. The firm has grown successfully during the many years they have been in business due to their extensive experience, eye for detail, and commitment to getting the job right. In addition to real estate sales and vacation rentals, they

also manage Ocean Walk (oceanwalkssi.com), the largest residential complex on the island. In order to better serve you, their team members are closely connected with the community and the company is a member of the BrunswickGolden Isles Chamber of Commerce. Whether you are looking for a seasonal ocean-view cottage or to purchase a condo or multi-story home on St. Simons Island, American Dream SSI, Inc. can help you find exactly what you need. If you’re searching for an affordable new home or a vacation rental, gain access to listings throughout the easy to navigate American Dreams SSI, Inc. website. Just set your search parameters according to the features you desire to find your ideal vacation homes. If you need any assistance with your search, American Dream SSI, Inc. staff members will be happy to help you. Their team is highly knowledgeable about the area and what it has to offer, and always looks forward to helping visitors enjoy their stay and plan return visits as well.

Theresa Taylor and Brittany Hayes of American Dream, SSI will find your perfect vacation home.

home away from home – on the serene Atlantic coast. Reach out to broker Theresa Taylor at 912.223.6109 or Bruce Taylor at 912.506.6539 if you’re looking to find your dream home. Call reservation specialist Brittany Hayes at 912.638.6092 to discuss your future vacation arrangements or if you are interested in finding a local property management team for your second home. Brittany and Valerie Jones work hard to make sure your vacation home is picture perfect for arriving guests, so contact them to see if the customized level of service they provide can fill your needs. American Dream SSI, Inc. specializes in south end vacation rental homes and condominiums. Their reservation system is connected with VRBO, Find Rentals, and Trip Advisor for online bookings through these advertisers, thus avoiding the problem of keeping up with multiple calendars. Owners can easily view their upcoming reservations or block time out for their family and friends. 1331 Ocean Blvd, Suite 1 St. Simons Island americandreamssi.com

Join the beautiful St. Simons Island community and make your home – or your

BENNIE’S RED BARN Restaurant, Music Club & Special Events Venue An Island Tradition Since 1954 OPEN NIGHTLY FOR DINNER

Reservations Suggested (but not always necessary)

LIVE MUSIC IN THE TREEBAR

Wednesday-Saturday Nights (Free Fish Fry on Thursday)

SOUTHERN SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET

5514 FREDERICA RD 912-638-2844

11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

APRIL 2018

BUYING OR SELLING, I WILL HELP MAKE SURE YOU LAND WHERE YOU WANT.

GERRY PECK Associate Broker 912-223-5508 - Direct/Cell/Text 912-638-0406 ext. 234 - Office gerry.peck@sothebysrealty.com deloachsir.com

DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty. DeLoachSIR.com | mobile app text SIR to 87778 | 912-638-0406 | 2901 Frederica Road St. Simons Island, GA. MCMVII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

4016 CORAL PARK DRIVE / BRUNSWICK, GA 912.265.9696 / floorsandmorestore.com

ONE OF KIND CUSTOM PIECES & INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

LF Cook Interiors, LLC 206 Redfern Village St. Simons Island 912.638.6100 32

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Island Ace Hardware 329 Longview Plaza • Saint Simons Island • 912.638.3800

A SENSE OF PLACE

Harrison Design Creates Homes in Harmony with Nature

any elements combine in making a house a home. Architecturally, the residence needs to fit into its neighborhood and optimize the location’s natural beauty. A sensitive architectural design extols its setting to bring continual joy and enchantment to the owners. “In this area, almost all residential sites offer a beautiful view, whether ocean or lake, and most properties feature our much-loved Live Oaks,” said Chad Goehring, principal of the local architecture firm Harrison Design. For Goehring, who is currently an associate member of the American Institute of Architects, one of the most exciting steps in designing a new home is seeing the property for the first time. He prefers visiting the site with the new owners to learn what attracted them to the location and how it embodies their dreams and desires.

the future residence. Goehring likes to hear the owners’ priorities in terms of the setting. From this information, he devises the house’s program, which ultimately becomes its design. A successful residential design suits the location as well as the clients’ personalities and budget. Within the architecture, Harrison Design creates “wow” moments that will continually reward and inspire those who reside in the home. “The ideal situation is when we can be involved even before the clients buy the lot,” explained Goehring. “That allows us to evaluate whether the property is best suited for their desired plans, and we can help them visualize how their final home might look.” Harrison Design’s site analysis might identify potential shortcomings of the property, leading to finding a more ideal location.

seven offices across the U.S. and a studio in Shanghai. Its residential expertise encompasses a range of architectural styles, from traditional to modern. The firm’s commercial work includes condominium developments, churches, hospitality and assisted-living communities. Even after 12 years on St. Simons Island, the professionals at Harrison Design find every project to be unique, and exciting.

Harrison Design is located at 60 Cinema Lane #130 on St. Simons Island. They can be reached by phone at 912.634.9603 or visit their website at harrisondesign.com.

TOP: An idyllic view from the back porch of a Harrison Design home on Sea Island. (Photo: Richard Leo Johnson) ABOVE (from left): Two front oaks dictated the location of this

While strolling the lot, he observes the clients’ engagement with the environment and also evaluates the contextual considerations for

Harrison Design is a full-service architecture, interior design and landscape architecture firm. Founded in Atlanta in 1991, the company has

Hampton Point residence. (Photo: Richard Leo Johnson); Live Oaks dramatically frame this cottage-style home in Frederica. (Photo: Mali Azima); The curve of the water’s edge echoes the natural Sea Island landscape. (Photo: Gil Stose).

APRIL 2018

FEELING ULTRA

ccording to Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute: “The Pantone Color of the Year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly a reflection of what’s needed in our world today.” And Pantone has decided what the world needs now is Ultra Violet. The Institute’s Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman explains, “We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. From exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way to what is yet to come.” The blue-based purple shade has been described as “complex and contemplative,” “dramatically provocative and thoughtful,” and was chosen to communicate “originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” Calling to mind icons like Prince, Jimi Hendrix, and David Bowie, the color evokes emotion

and symbolizes experimentation and non-conformity. Enigmatic purples like Ultra Violet have also historically been imbued with a mystical or spiritual quality. Recognizing a need for refuge from today’s high energy, overstimulated world, the use of Ultra Violet is recommended to foster connection and mindfulness in meditation and gathering places.

be afraid to play! And don’t stop at home décor, incorporate this vibrant violet in your makeup palette and add it to your closet at well. Accessorize with sophisticated style while keeping a whimsical edge.

Whether you decide to paint the walls with this regal shade or add the color with violet chairs or accent pieces, it can be paired with neutrals and grays beautifully or add more depth to a room of blues. Enhance its richness with warm woods and soft fabrics or boldly embrace the future with a more contemporary look accented by metals and sleek stone surfaces. Don’t

103 Brunswick Ave. Suite 100 St. Simons Island, Georgia 912.638.8880 kbdssi.com

C A B I N E T RY • D E S I G N • S PAC E P L A N N I N G • C L O S E T S • C U S TO M M I L L W O R K • H A R DWA R E

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@kitchensbydesignssi

Mortgages Need Check-Ups Too

ust like an annual checkup with your doctor can help you ensure that you’re in the best health you can be, a mortgage check-up can help you determine whether your current loan is the best loan for you. There are always new products and programs coming out in the market which you may be able to use to your advantage to improve your finances. Silverton Mortgage Specialists offer this service and Branch Manager Gretchen Johnson offers some advice about why you might want to consider it and how to proceed. All you need for a mortgage check-up is your current mortgage statement and the process usually only takes about 30 days. The documentation needed for underwriting depends on the type of loan you are trying to obtain, and you might not even need a new property appraisal. If you’re looking strictly to lower your interest rate, there are several streamlined mortgage programs that don’t require an appraisal. However, a new appraisal will be required if you are looking for a cash-out refinance to pull equity out of your home. If you’re wondering “Why bother? I’m sure I got the best deal when

I got my mortgage 10 years ago.” Gretchen advises, “Even if you have an interest rate lower than the current rate, there are several benefits to refinancing. You might be able to pull out equity or add a home equity open line of credit for the future. You never know when you might want to remodel your home or if you have an emergency and need some extra cash.” She also explains, “Usually mortgage money is the cheapest money, meaning low rate and payment. If you have a car loan at 2% on a 6-year loan, the same money financed on a mortgage will be a significantly lower payment on a 30-year mortgage. You can also use the equity and cash out to pay off other debt.” Even if you have a mortgage that is 10 years old, you might want to refinance that to a shorter term to pay it off faster if you can afford slightly higher payments. Or you could refinance it to another 30-year loan and lower your payments each month. Why choose Silverton? Althedia Gordon said, “Simply put: outstanding people and magnificent team. Gretchen Johnson and Kathy Bulfer worked diligently to find a mortgage company for my husband and me.

They kept us informed daily and were available to us any time we needed them. We walked into this company as strangers, but by our closing date, we felt we had made friends.” J.R. Manning calls Gretchen “extremely knowledgeable, professional, and steadfast,” adding, “I felt as if my needs took precedence over anybody else from the second I walked in. I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for your respect, your time, and making me priority number one.” At Silverton Mortgage Specialists, a mortgage check-up is FREE, so call or email Gretchen at 912.270.2727/gretchenjohnson@ silvertonmorgage.com to make your appointment today! For more, visit silvertonmortgage.com.

APRIL 2018

GOOD CLEAN FUN FREE CONSULTATIONS

WEEKLY POOL CLEANING CERTIFIED & INSURED 912.602.3664 / ssislandpools@gmail.com

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WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US!

WINNER

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Two Locations to Serve You 737 Wilson Circle, SSI 912.638.5778 3569 Darien Hwy., Brunswick 912.466.9582 theacguysinc.net

Elegant Island Living Readers Choice Award 2015, 2016, 2017

(912) 638-1216 Located Between Redfern Village and St. Simons Drugs.

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Pest-Away Plants

Did you know

natural bug repellant because insects tend to avoid them. While it won’t completely eliminate pests from your yard, we know that around here every little bit helps, so add what you can to your garden and around the house. Pots of rosemary, mint, and basil on the window sill or on the sun porch will give you the benefit of having fresh herbs to use in the kitchen too!

that there are plants you can add to your landscape to help reduce pesky backyard pests? Planting certain herbs and ornamental flowers that are known insect-repellants in your garden or around your patio can help minimize the mosquito madness that comes with living in South Coastal Georgia. The essential oils in many of these plants are often used to make

Alliums Onions, garlic, chives, leeks, scallions, and shallots are all alliums. Surprisingly pretty, the plants grow tall with purple, white or pink flowers. They are great garden protectors because they keep away slugs, flies, and worms, although they can attract moths. Be careful around your beloved pets, however, because allium plants, and garlic and onions, can be extremely toxic to dogs and cats.

Lavender Lavender bouquets are not only beautiful and sweet-smelling ways to decorate rooms, they repel flies, moths, and mosquitoes. Plant these purple beauties in a sunny garden or in pots around the house to ward off pests. The smell also helps with insomnia so place in your bedroom or the bathroom to add some relaxing fragrance to the air.

“I am thrilled to be joining the DeLoach Sotheby’s team. Their international network will enable me to provide comprehensive service to my clients. The collaboration with Sotheby’s International Realty is what sold me on this opportunity.” • Over 20 years of successfully helping people find their dream homes • Active volunteer in the community. Past President of The Symphony Society, active in Christ Church, St. Simons Rotary, Golden Isles Live and the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. Is Foundation Trustee for the College of Coastal Georgia

Susan Imhoff 912.222.5686 susan.imhoff@sothebysrealty.com DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty. DeLoachSIR.com | mobile app text SIR to 87778 | 912-638-0406 | 2901 Frederica Road | St. Simons Island, GA MCMVII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

APRIL 2018

Basil There’s an oil in basil that kills mosquito eggs. Ward off flies and mosquitos by planting it in pots and placing them in and around gathering areas. Added bonus: use the leaves in salads, and on your margherita pizza!

Rosemary When planted in the garden, potent rosemary will not only repel mosquitoes, it will protect vegetable plants from infestation.

Petunias Gardeners often plant these bright-colored beauties to repel squash bugs, tomato hornworms, beetles and aphids. They’re almost foolproof to grow, requiring minimal maintenance, and can be planted in gardens or containers in a sunny spot. They made beautiful window boxes and are perfect garden liners too.

Chrysanthemums Pyrethrins, a compound found in chrysanthemums is known to keep away mosquitoes, roaches, beetles, ticks, silverfish, Japanese beetles, lice, bedbugs, and ants. Because pyrethrums kills flying and jumping insects they are used in most commercially available home and garden insecticides and are commonly found in indoor sprays and pet shampoos.

Lemongrass Citronella is the oil found in lemongrass and a well-known and commercially used bug repellant. Lucky for us here in the south, lots of sun is required to grow lemongrass so we may be able to enjoy it in our yards and gardens longer than just the summer months.

Mint (also catnip) While most people love the smell of mint, biting insects don’t have the same attraction. This natural insect repellent spreads like crazy when planted, so it’s best to use in pots. The nepetalactone that is found to be what draws cats to catnip is the same thing that repels bugs, so let the cats play!

Marigolds Colorful and sun-loving marigolds are often used by farmers and avid gardners to keep pests at bay. Their scent is known to keep mosquitoes, aphids, and even rabbits, out of your yard. They can also spur growth of certain plants in gardens, especially roses.

Common Lantanas Found just about everywhere here and known to spread like wildfire, pretty lantana has the dual benefit of attracting butterflies and bees and repelling mosquitoes. Let it grow!

Toys Puzzles Wedding Gifts Baby Gifts Wreaths Candles Frames Jewelry Totes Stationery 38

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Not Just a Drug Store… Also, an

Extraordinary Gift Store

Here’s to SPRING!

3295 Frederica Rd. St. Simons Island, GA 912.638.7025

Showroom Hours Monday-Friday 10-5 Interior Design by Appointment Only

40 Years Experience in Residential and Commercial Design

- C E LE B R AT I N G 9 0 Y E A R S -

he Cassina Garden Club of St. Simons Island turns 90 years old this year. What better way to celebrate than by attending their 12th Annual Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk? The Club has been very busy the past few years restoring the historic 1830 tabby slave cabins at Hamilton Plantation on Gascoigne Bluff and they’re eager to show off the completed project to the public. On Sunday, April 22, the week prior to Garden Walk, the club invites the community to join them at “Music at the Cabins,” an inaugural event presenting live music at the historic grounds. The event is free and open to the public and will feature singing saxophone phenom

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Michael Hulett. Bring your chairs and blanket and pack up a picnic dinner with your favorite beverages and plan to enjoy this musical evening on the bluff with friends. The restoration project took approximately four years to complete and it’s time for a party! Educational tours of the cabins will take place beginning at 4:00 p.m. that day, and the concert will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Please come out and let the club express its heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported the restoration and those who continue to provide financial assistance. The following Saturday, April 28, Gascoigne Bluff and the cabins will be a check-in site for the 12th Annual Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk. This one-day event features a self-

guided tour of eight of some of the most private and unique gardens on St. Simons Island. There will be special activities at the cabins and on the grounds as well. These activities are free and open to the public. The Marketplace will be open there from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will feature works by local artisans, a plant sale, and tours of the restored cabins and gardens. A Garden Party with delicious refreshments made by club members will take place from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and will feature music from the Golden Isles Strummers ukulele band from 2:00-3:00 p.m. Additionally, artists will be painting in the gardens and on the grounds at Gascoigne Bluff and there will be a Plein Air Artists’ Sale of their works from 3:00-4:00 p.m.

The Garden Walk would not be possible without the generosity of the community and sponsors involved. Premier Sponsor ACE Garden Center has been supporting this event since its inception and their participation is greatly appreciated. Please show your thanks by stopping in to ACE Garden Center to do some shopping for your own garden. On April 28-29, present your Garden Walk ticket to receive 10% off all plant purchases. Joining ACE this year as a Premier Sponsor is Magnolia Manor. Additional sponsors include: FarmRich (Distinguished), June Brown, Carter Land Services, Coastal Bloomers, Crystal Pools, Elegant Outdoors Landscaping, Gene’s Greens, Jeff Homans, Low Country Walk, Premier Printing, Redfern Pest Solutions, Restoration Imports, Synovus Bank (Contributing), and Beachview Event Rentals and Design (In-Kind). Two Friends in Redfern Village will be showing their support by offering a Sip & Shop event where proceeds from sales will be donated to Cassina Garden Club on Wednesday, April 25 from 1:00-6:00 p.m. Del Sur Artisan Eats offers special pricing for Garden Walk attendees on April 28, stop in for lunch or dinner and receive 10% off your bill when you present your ticket. Last year, Garden Walk attendees were wowed by an amazing collection of hand-tended orchids, the stunning setting of the Live Oaks at Captain’s Walk, and the gorgeous pond and gazebo at Grey Owl Inn, as well as many other features. The Garden Club’s hope is that you are impressed by the beauty you encounter on the tour, that you take away some education, and that you are inspired to be creative in your own gardens. What can visitors expect this year?

GARDEN 1 1604 Ocean Boulevard, East Beach. This transplanted 1950s cottage had been moved to its present location from a site at The King and Prince Resort. The large oak that provides the canopy in the front was the only landscaping feature. This allowed the new owners to create a garden to suit their lifestyle and new future on the island. What emerged is a

lovely casual garden where al fresco dining can be enjoyed. Thriving rosemary bushes, graceful agapanthus, white muhly grasses adorn the pebble paths and garden with autumn ferns that colorfully transform through the seasons.

GARDEN 2 104 Newfield, Harrison Point As a Master Gardener, the owner of 104 Newfield embarked on a plan to create a property that would be filled with year-round greenery, seasonal blooms, and a courtyard in which to entertain and relax. Patience has paid off, and now, two

years later, Southern staples of gardenias, azaleas, and camellias, are joined by citrus trees and raised beds for herbs and vegetables. The wrap-around porch is lush with hanging ferns, and beautiful flowers spill out of a plethora of pots.

GARDEN 3 105 Newfield, Harrison Point A blue grey Century Cactus (American Agave) is the most prized plant in the garden at 105 Newfield. It began as a 12-inch experiment and now towers over 8 feet tall as a triumphant success story. This perfectly describes the garden-

ing style of the owners here: they have a passion for growing plants that are atypical of the island and they do so with style and success. Swamp hibiscus, outdoor philodendrons, and numerous perennials that should not thrive easily in this climate are all faring well. They love challenge and enjoy seeing their efforts as they sit on their Victorian wrap-around porch. Hand-painted gardens thrive in the home as well, including a garden greenhouse theme in the great room, and an ivy-covered trellis adorning a ceiling. Daring and dazzling creativity abounds!

GARDEN 4 311 John Shaw, Shaw’s Bounty Citrus trees lining the driveway and a large king palm are what welcome you to the marsh property on Dunbar Creek. African jasmine and azaleas are just some of the heatloving plants that add beauty. Potted tropicals, variegated ginger and flax lilies adorn the pool and pebbled walkway. The majestic view that draws your attention, however, is that of the sweeping marsh and the stately oaks that frame it. A well-placed bench beckons you to sit and take it all in. (continues)

APRIL 2018

SAVE THE DATE! P RO U D S PO N S O R O F T H E 11th ANNUAL CASSINA GARDEN CLUB’S TABBY & TILLANDSIA

GARDEN WALK S AT U R D AY , A P R I L 2 8 T H

Find it all this Spring! Bedding Plants, Shrubs and Trees. Houseplants, Soils, Pots and Fountains. Spring Flowers and More.

GERBERS SEASCAPE MIRROR

LITE POTS SHELL PLANTER

GARDEN 5

GARDEN 8

1059 Sea Palms West, Enclave Two tree spirits carved into the oaks by Keith Jennings and an old-fashioned wooden swing are perhaps some of our favorite features at this stop. When the owners acquired an adjacent property, they challenged a local landscape architect to create a sanctuary of tranquility and beauty that blended the two properties. Now, a winding brick pathway connects the adjacent lots and emerges from behind a hedge to the open grounds of a guest house and its evolving gardens. A labyrinth is in the planning stages and butterflies, bees, and birds will enjoy the wildflower garden. There is also a beautiful brick potting shed that is a source of fun and inspiration for the gardener.

The Club’s Tabby Slave Cabins and Gardens As we explained earlier, the Cassina Garden Club began the work of restoring the tabby slave cabins located at Gascoigne Bluff in 20122013. Their work was completed in 2017, and these early plantation era (1793-1865) cabins that housed Hamilton Plantation’s slaves can now be seen as they were in their original days. Shards of Indian pottery, hand-painted marbles, colonial ironwork, tabby from 1750, antebellum glass, and bricks made at Frederica were just some of the artifacts that were unearthed and identified during the project. These are an invaluable tool in showing virtually every period of the island’s history.

GARDEN 6

Plantation gardens generally contained herbs, vegetables and cotton and were constructed in an elliptical shape around the plantation home. The gardens on the Cassina grounds were designed in the same manner by combining an adaption of an actual drawing and descriptions of several other plantation gardens. Today’s garden offers plants indigenous to the coastal Georgia climate. Cotton, okra, peanuts, and a Southern red cedar tree, measuring the largest in the state of Georgia, can all be found on the Cassina grounds. Birds and butterflies love it just as much as the two-legged visitors, if not more; the property has been declared a certified butterfly way station and a wild bird sanctuary. Come out to enjoy the music, the fellowship, the gardens, and celebrate 90 years of the Cassina Garden Club’s wonderful work beautifying our community. We’re so lucky to have them here!

207 Dunbarton Drive, Dunbar Creek The mature plantings of azaleas, camellias, hydrangeas, and ferns were embraced by the current owners who love their trees and the comfortable position of the home nestled in the Southern landscape. To add color and texture, they planted two myrtles as well as lantana, liriope, nandina, and pittosporum. The backyard patio features two cut-out beds with a border of boxwoods, center camellias and scattered agapanthus. Feeders, bird houses and a dense treed wall attract birds of all species, including a pair of painted buntings who wintered in the garden, providing hours of birdwatching pleasure from the lovely porch for the home owners.

GARDEN 7

BIRDHOUSES

SUCCULENTS

2807 DEMERE RD., ST. SIMONS ISLAND

(912) 634-0523 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8-5:30 P.M., SATURDAY 8-5 P.M. AND SUNDAY 12-4 P.M.

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11712 Old Demere Several 300+ year-old live oaks stand as sentinels on the property at 11712 Old Demere, which also boasts approximately three acres overlooking the marsh, making this a very special place. An artfully arranged band of bricks and mondo grass borders the home’s entrance at the end of a long drive. A pool and pergola in the backyard were specifically designed to complement the home and to enhance the beauty of the landscape made up of marsh grass, ferns, and palms, and several citrus trees that offer lemons, limes, and unusual sour oranges.

TICKETS for the 12th Annual Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk are $25 are can be purchased at ACE Garden Center, GJ Ford Bookshop and St. Simons Drug on St. Simons Island, and at dot&army in Brunswick. On event day, you can purchase tickets at the cabins at Gascoigne Bluff. Additionally, you can buy tickets on the website at cassinagardenclub.org, and pick them up at the Will Call table at the cabins on tour day. For additional information regarding tickets, call 912.638.9808 or email lcarlton@bellsouth.net.

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ngels walk among us and they are our mothers and grandmothers, the women who nurture and care for children and foster the dreams of the next generation. This month Coastal Coalition for Children (CC4C) is hosting a Tribute Tea that celebrates these (continues)

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important women in our lives. This event is a fundraiser for CC4C and will serve as a kick-off to “May is Generation Celebration Month,” and Executive Director Teri Evans is hopeful that this is just the first year of a new annual event and one of many more additions to raise the profile of CC4C in the community. While you may not recognize Coastal Coalition for Children’s name, perhaps you are familiar with their pillar programs, Grandparent Connection and Healthy Families: In Glynn County, there are approximately 1000 families in which the primary caregivers for the children are their grandparents. Raising children for a second time can be very challenging for grandparents and a major adjustment for them, as well as for the children. Grandparent Connection helps to make the situation easier for all involved by assisting grandparents in bridging generational gaps, meeting the child’s physical and emotional needs, and locating available financial and healthcare resources. The program is not limited to grandparents and is also available to help relative, or kinship, caregivers. Grandparent Connection also provides assistance in the school system by advocating for these families and helps grandparents to find beneficial family resources of which they might not be aware.

Collaborating with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Georgia, Grandparent Connection provides parenting classes for grandparents at local Boys and Girls Club facilities using “Parenting the Second Time Around,” a curriculum designed specifically for “grandfamilies.” The classes help grandparents understand issues facing children today and to be able to better identify the emotional needs, as well as the physical needs, of their grandchildren. The 8 modules of the curriculum address family dynamics, current methods of effectively disciplining children, legal concerns of relatives rising children, advocacy and connection with community programs. The Boys and Girls Club staff offer supervised programs and activities for the grandchildren while their grandparents are in class. Upon competition of the classes, grandparents are encouraged to continue to support one another in the monthly peer support group meetings that take place on the third Tuesday of the month at the Terrell Thomas Boys & Girls Club Center in Brunswick. The group provides input as to meeting topics. The Grandparent Connection works closely with the health department, police, the County Extension Office, legal and financial advisors, the YWCA, school systems, and the Glynn County Recreation Department to provide grandparents with the vital information they need in raising their grandchildren. These groups give presentations and answer questions

on areas like obtaining help for the children through the schools, qualifying for government health care, immunizations, and custody and adoption issues. The support groups have provided invaluable benefits to participating grandparents. The accepting environment and opportunity to connect with people who are experiencing the same things helps grandparents, and children, to know they are not alone. Members offer help and support to each other in many ways, from advice to transportation and childcare. The families enjoy gatherings like picnics, Easter egg hunts, trips to local water parks, and Family Days at the YWCA. Through donations, Grandparent Connection is able to host an Giving Tree and a Back to School party each year. Healthy Families of Coastal Georgia (HFCG) is a credentialed program that follows a national program model designed to help expectant and new parents get their children off to healthy start. The program is available to any consenting parents in Glynn and McIntosh Counties at no cost. Families participate voluntarily in the program after a preliminary eligibility screen (prior to or within two weeks of birth) and receive free home visiting and referrals from trained staff. By providing services to overburdened families, HFCG fits

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er tea.” In the Mad Hatter Tea room, children will enjoy kid-friendly tea sandwiches, yogurt and fruit, cupcakes and other treats while they learn good table manners and social grace. Look out, Brits, the ladies of the Golden Isles are comin’ for ya and bringing their kids!

into the continuum of services provided to families by the Coastal Coalition for Children, Inc. and other coastal area agencies. HFCG uses the “Growing Great Kids” prenatal to 36 months curriculum, an interactive parenting and child development curriculum and a staff development program. This curriculum includes assessment tools to monitor baby’s developmental growth and also focuses on the development of nurturing and empathetic parent-child relationships beginning at birth. A trained Family Support Worker (FSW) is assigned to the family and visits the home once a week to present the parenting curriculum, model appropriate mother/child behavior, monitor the baby’s growth and development, and make referrals to help the parent provide a safe healthy home for their child. The objective of the program is to support young families as they strive to create a safe and stable home environment for their child. The Family Support Worker helps the family develop an individual family support plan to attain educational and financial goals and become self-sufficient members of the community. Young families are encouraged to remain in the program until the child is old enough to attend an instructional pre-school program at 3 to 4 years of age.

name, you can see they’re providing some vital programs. It was the idea of grandmother-mother-daughter tea parties that sparked the idea for April’s fundraiser. The Tribute Tea will include a formal afternoon tea and a separate Kids Mad Hatter Tea & Etiquette Lesson (with childcare) for girls and boys in Kindergarten through Grade 4. The menu for the formal tea will include English scones and their traditional accompaniments, like jams and clotted cream with fruit, tea sandwiches, crudité, and canapes, pastries, tarts, and macarons. Two brewed teas will be served and there will be a brief, fun “Tea Talk” about the origin, history, and etiquette of a “prop-

The Tribute Tea will take place from 2:004:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center and will also include announcements of the CC4C Volunteers of the Year, the Healthy Families HOPE recipient, and Grandparent Connection Gratitude recipient. Some fabulous door prizes and goody bags will also be part of the afternoon fun. Elegant Island Living is proud to be a presenting sponsor of this inaugural event and we hope to see you there. Patrons are invited to purchase a table for 8 guests for $300 and come as a group of friends, co-workers, or family. Individual tickets are also available for $35 with a second adult (mother, daughter, friend) on the same purchase only $30. Children’s tickets are $15, limited to the first 20 reservations. The raffle tickets for door prizes are 3 for $5 or 6 for $10. For tickets, please contact 912.388.0376. For more information about CC4C, visit cc4children. org. Grab the ladies in your life, don your favorite frock, add a chic chapeau, and come join the tea party!

This important work of helping to raise today’s children falls under the umbrella of CC4C. So even if you don’t know their

APRIL 2018

More Than a Decade of Dedication

Now Fighting Domestic Violence

n 1913, a group of industrious and civic-minded ladies organized The Civic Association of Brunswick, Georgia with a goal to make the streets, parks, and squares blossom with thousands of trees and shrubs. Students from the now non-existent Purvis Elementary School joined in by planting window boxes full of bright, colorful flowers. The beautiful work they did was recognized by Brunswick’s “City Fathers” who set aside a fund to finance the women’s projects. Soon Brunswick’s squares blossomed, streets were well-maintained, and parks overflowed with flowers as evidence of the work done by the civic association. The Civic Association merged into a “Woman’s Club” in April 1917 and became owners of a school in Tallulah Falls, Georgia. Concerned that children in the mountains were not receiving proper education, a Mrs. Lipscome started Tallulah Falls School in 1909, with the school

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owned and operated by Georgia Women’s Clubs. Today, the school exists as a private boarding and day school for grades 6-12 which enrolls students from several foreign countries. Brunswick Woman’s Club takes great pride in “their school” by helping to support it.

the Jaycees and later sold again to another non-profit organization. The Junior Woman’s Club of Brunswick was organized by the Woman’s Club of Brunswick in the 1940s, the St. Simons Junior Woman’s Club in 1950, and the Woodbine Club in 1951.

The membership for the club totaled 150 heading into the war years of 1918, and the women did their part for the cause by knitting garments for the Battleship Georgia and sweaters for “our boys.” Following the war, the club sponsored a night school for adults who were unable to read or write using public school teachers who were paid a small stipend. Enrollment increased from 135 students to 506. A resounding success! Unfortunately, due to the difficulty of raising funds to support the program, it ceased around 1932.

In spite of the goals the original civic association set for themselves – to beautify the city of Brunswick – they and their successors far exceeded their expectations. In 1922, Brunswick Women’s Club joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, an organization of more than 80,000 members in affiliated clubs in every state and more than a dozen countries. GFWC members are community leaders who work locally to create global change by supporting the arts, preserving natural resources, advancing education, promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging civic involvement, and working toward world peace and understanding. In addition to continuing to maintain their garden and various other beautification projects, and providing support for the Tallulah Falls school, members have volunteered time and money to a wide variety of organizations and community programs, awarding scholarships, raising funds and collecting needed supplies for agencies like CASA, Safe Harbor, America’s Second Harvest, Gateway Behavioral Health Services, Coastal Honor Flight, United Way, the families of service personnel, MAP International, UNICEF, Heifer International,

During the 1930s and 1940s, Club meetings held at the Oglethorpe Hotel included programs on music, public speaking, literature, education, and government. Plans to build a clubhouse never came to fruition and valuable downtown lots owned by the Club were sold. Members approached Glynn County commissioners for space for a clubhouse when the county was disposing of property in the Goodyear Park area in the 1950s and the Club was granted a deed for property adjacent to Parkwood Drive and West Park Avenue in February 1952. In 1971, the building was sold to

Glynn Community Crisis Center/Amity House and Hope House, the Salvation Army, the International Seamens’ Center, our local libraries, schools, and hospitals, among others. They have visited nursing homes, and schools, done arts and crafts, attended naturalization ceremonies, manned call centers, donated books, Christmas trees, holiday meals, and so much more, over the years. In their 104 years of service, the Club has also received numerous awards at state and national Club levels as well as other recognition. Last year, Brunswick Mayor Cornell Harvey proclaimed May 10, 2017 as “Brunswick Woman’s Club Day,” and congratulated the Club on the 95th anniversary of their 1922 charter with GFWC. Although current membership now stands at 18 active members, 2 life members, and 6 honorary members, the Club is still diligent in its mission, with members actively providing volunteer service to the Golden Isles of Georgia in the areas of the arts, conservation, education, home life, international outreach, and public issues, with last year’s volunteer time totaling approximately 4,000 hours. On Saturday, April 28th, members of the Brunswick Woman’s Club will join thousands of other members of GFWC in Georgia in local communities collecting personal care items for local domestic violence shelters and raising awareness of GFWC national signature project: Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention. Brunswick Woman’s Club members will be outside of the Dollar Tree located at 197 Golden Isles Plaza (next to Bed, Bath & Beyond) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. greeting the general public, sharing information about local resources for victims, and collecting personal care items for victims of all ages such as: diapers, shampoo, body wash, deodorant, hair brushes, paper towels, trash bags, feminine hygiene products, shavers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc. to donate to Glynn Community Crisis Center/Amity and Hope Houses.

GFWC Georgia members have chosen this day – April 28, 2018 – during Volunteers in Action Week as the GFWC Georgia Day of Service to be a visible force in their local communities helping domestic violence victims break the cycle of violence and allow them and their families to thrive on their road to recovery. Every nine seconds in the U.S. a woman is assaulted or beaten. Studies also show that 3-4 million children between the ages of 3-17 are at risk of exposure to domestic violence each year. This abusive behavior has devastating effects on our society and impacts individuals in every community across America. “The consequences of domestic violence can span generations and it is more important than ever that GFWC Georgia members come together to raise awareness and advocate for those victims who do not feel they have a voice,” said GFWC Georgia President Ida Dorvee. Please come out and meet the fabulous community-minded women of the Brunswick Woman’s Club during their Day of Service. You can also look for members volunteering at A Taste of Glynn on Sunday, April 8, at The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort from 5:00-8:00 p.m., the signature fundraiser for Glynn Community Crisis Center, Amity and Hope Houses, in support of domestic violence awareness, prevention, and victim assistance and advocacy. For more information about the Brunswick Woman’s Club, please visit their website at bwcga.net. New members are always welcome!

OPPOSITE PAGE (top): Linda Nelson, incoming 1st Vice President, Lilly Smith, Home Life Co-chair, with Dottie Bromley, Executive Director Glynn Community Crisis Center and Hilda Hagarty, current President.

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OPPOSITE PAGE (left): Brunswick Mayor Cornell Harvey presenting Brunswick Woman’s Club officers with a proclamation recognizing their contributions to the community on the 95th anniversary of their charter with the General Federation of Woman’s Clubs.

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COMRADES IN ARMS: Training Day for 2018 Coastal Georgia Honor Flight by Alysia English

he light chatter quickly grows to a dull roar as veterans and volunteers of all ages meet and bond at the annual Coastal Georgia Honor Flight Training Day. They come from all walks of life: clerks, doctors, firemen, housewives, real estate agents, retirees, etc. But on May 5, 2018, a planeload of area veterans will proudly wear a commemorative hat naming and claiming him or her as an honored guest on the 2018 Coastal Georgia Honor Flight to Washington, DC. A veteran’s Honor Flight hat identifies his or her era of service as World War II, Korea or Vietnam and designates them as a U.S. veteran. The hats immediately become a badge of honor and a cherished keepsake of what many call “one of the best days of their lives.” Coastal Georgia Honor Flight is one of 130 “hubs” in 44 states that honor veterans with DC site visits. Time and weather permitting, planned stops include the World War II, Korean and Vietnam Memorials, the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, including the famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony, the Marine Corps (Iwo Jima), Air Force and Navy Memorials. Financial donations from businesses and individuals help cover the $1000 cost to send each veteran on the flight. There is no cost to the veteran, and each guardian pays $500 to help cover the cost of his or her trip. American Legion and Auxiliary volunteers are one of many groups donating hundreds of hours each year to Honor Flight. On April 14, one hundred fifty people will congregate to learn what to expect during the flight itself. Veterans, their “guardians,” or companions for the day, medical staff, volunteers, and the Honor Flight board share schedules, needs and plans for May 5. In addition to hats, name

Vice Commander Larry Myers, Jr. and Sr. Vice Commander Bennie Williams

tags, and group tee-shirts, volunteers will distribute a wealth of items for the flight: commemorative blankets, Honor Flight pillows, and backpacks filled with all sorts of useful goodies which were donated by St. Simons Drug Co. Flight director and Vice President of the Board, Mark Beaudry gives hundreds of hours each year to this endeavor and says he has “found his life’s calling in volunteering for Honor Flight.” Chandra Kendall, co-founder of Coastal Georgia Honor Flight and volunteer coordinator on the board, is equally committed. She handles details like making sure group tee-shirt orders will arrive on time and in the correct sizes. Each veteran and each volunteer wear a specially designed tee-shirt and name tag during the flight, identifying him or her as part of the Coastal Georgia group. Once in DC, hundreds of other visitors are on the scene and it is helpful to have a quick visual of the local group. Kendall stays busy with “all things recognizing our veterans.” The recipient of the 2017

Civilian Recognition Award from the Veterans Council of the Golden Isles, Kendall manages a literal army of flight volunteers to make the event happen. Training Day impresses upon “guardians” the seriousness of their purpose. Larry Myers, Jr., Vice Commander of American Legion, Post 9, Brunswick, Georgia, will be a guardian this year. “As a Vietnam veteran, I know that the emotions will come. The hurt, the resentment, and thoughts they have carried for 50 years will come to the surface. And it will transform them in a good way for the rest of their lives. My mission is to be there as a safe and understanding friend, a listening ear … somebody who knows what they went through.” Bennie Williams, wears many hats in his work to support US veterans. He experienced Honor Flight first-hand as a 2017 veteran participant and will be a guardian this year. As an Honor Flight board member, the local Post 9 American Legion Commander and the (continues)

APRIL 2018

Sr. Vice Commander, 8th, District, Southeast Region, Williams has heard countless personal stories of how Honor Flight changed the lives of veterans. “If you have served in the military, you have comrades in arms who truly understand what you experienced. That bond during Honor Flight helps people heal, talk about their experience, remember people they lost during a war, and release any demons they might have. It is a great honor to be able to participate in this and continue to give that experience to other veterans.” His blue eyes twinkle as he describes his own Honor Flight in 2017, “It was the best trip I’ve ever been on. I got off that flight last year and said to my wife that I was going back next year as a guardian. The bonding and recognition of shared military experience is healing; you almost can’t describe what it does for veterans. Training Day brings it home that the event is all about our veterans. Yes, Honor Flight is fun, but it has a very sincere purpose. We’ll spend April 14 making sure the volunteers and guardians understand how serious their role is during the flight.” Honor Flight creates profound feelings – reflection, remembering, and reunion – regardless of a person’s branch of service. Some experience a life-changing catharsis of feelings held in for a lifetime. Honor Flight staff and volunteer have heard reactions like, “I could never talk about my war-time service before. This helped me release the demons,” and “It was a reunion with my military brothers and sisters that I didn’t even know I needed.” Or even this from a spouse, “I have been with my husband for

63 years; he never once spoke about his WWII service until this flight. It’s like meeting a whole new side of him; he is finally talking about it.” Everyone is invited to help welcome the veterans and guardians home in the communitywide Heroes Homecoming at 9:00 p.m., May 5, at the Brunswick airport. Last year, over 650 people welcomed the returning flight, giving them the heroes’ welcome they deserve. Visit coastalgeorgiahonorflight.org for more information about Coastal Georgia Honor Flight. For additional veteran opportunities

and networking, contact the American Legion, Post 9, Brunswick, Commander Bennie Williams at benniekarol@yahoo.com. CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Chandra Kendall is off to make

sure the 2018 tee-shirts will arrive on time; Mark Beaudry proudly displays the commemorative Honor Flight blankets presented to each participating veteran by the Brunswick chapter of the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution; Honor Flight volunteer and American Legion, Post 9, Auxiliary president Karol Williams assists an Honor Flight veteran with his commemorative hat, backpack and other items during Training Day.

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rab your hats and head to the starting gates, it’s almost time for Derby Day! One of the most highly-anticipated spring events in the Golden Isles, Frederica Academy’s signature fundraiser will magically transform Sea Island’s Retreat Clubhouse into what feels like your own private party at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 5. From the moment you’re offered the traditional mint julep as you walk in the door to the first notes of the trumpet heralding the impending start of the race, you know this event is something special. A Frederica Academy fundraising 54

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PHOTOS BY MARK DURANT PHOTOGRAPHY

Juleps, Jockeys AND A JEEP

tradition for 16 years, it just keeps getting better. EIL checked in with 2018 event co-chairs Jenny and Paul Thompson and Myra and John Wetzler for details about this year’s event and are as eager as the horses champing at the bit for what’s to come. Be sure to don your best race day attire because the Bluegrass State has nothing on Sea Island when it comes to Derby Day fashion. Seersucker suits and stunning spectators are encouraged as the traditional festive fashion is part of what makes this evening extravaganza such a fun occasion. And, ladies, the

hat parade competition is fierce, so be creative with your chapeaux! The winner will have the honor of drawing the ticket for this year’s raffle item: not a decked out golf cart this time around, but a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Sport 4x4! This white soft top 2-door model is the perfect vehicle for cruising the island in the summer, and it can be yours if you hold the winning raffle ticket. Tickets are one for $100, 3/$200, 8/$500 or 20/$1000 and are available for purchase online now. But the hat parade and drawing for the Jeep are by no means the main event! You’ll want

to hit the betting window to select the horse and jockey you think are wearing the winning silks before gathering in front of the big screen TVs to see the simulcast of the running of the 144th Kentucky Derby. Enjoy watching the most exciting two minutes in sports with your friends in this gorgeous Sea Island setting made even more spectacular with festive décor provided by Beachview Event Rentals & Design. There will also be plentiful plates of delicious Southern fare to please your palate. From shrimp and grits to decadent desserts, Sea Island serves up an array of offerings that will more than satisfy your appetite. In addition to juleps and fine bourbon, the bar is well-stocked to provide your preferred libations for the evening. You don’t need to travel to Louisville to get VIP box seat treatment for your Derby Day experience! After the race, a different sort of competition takes place. There’s nothing quite like the excitement and energy of the Derby Day live auction! This year, the always dynamic and charismatic David Yarborough will be taking the mic as emcee and auctioneer. Items up for grabs include some fabulous vacation packages to new destinations, a Taylor Swift concert experience, and a furry companion. Details are being firmed up on many items at the time of writing, but be assured that the committee has done a fantastic job at securing auction items that will make for some fierce bidding! The silent auction items are always spectacular as well, with something for everyone. Some truly priceless favorites are the class projects and creations made by the students, including the nativity set that demonstrates the artistry of the 4th grade class. You’ll find real treasures here and ample opportunities to bid. And please remember that, while this is a party, it has a purpose – to support the programs of Frederica Academy. As the school’s annual signature fundraising event, Derby Day is critical to the success of Frederica Academy and its ability to provide an outstanding college-preparatory

education to its students. Funds raised from this fun evening help fund Lower School field trips, Middle School Carpe Vitam, and Upper School Retreats, as well as many other programs for students with daily impact. The generous support you provide by becoming a Derby Day sponsor, attending the event, purchasing raffle tickets, and bidding on a wide array of silent and live auction items helps the school to continue serving students as the premier independent school between Jacksonville and Savannah. Sponsorship opportunities are available and include an invitation to a special Patron Party on April 19, so act promptly if you or your business

ukulele girl and her crew will kick the evening off as guests arrive and will finish out the night in grand style. A local favorite, the band is wellversed in playing tunes to get everyone out on the dance floor and singing along. When the last strains of the band fade away, you’ll be left wondering where the time went and won’t want the night to end. It’s a perfect way for new families to be introduced to the school and the community and for our community to embrace the school while having a wonderful time with friends.

would like to join Frederica Academy in presenting this wonderful event.

event and raffle tickets, and find sponsorship forms online at fredericaacademy.org. Whether you come for the juleps, to watch the jockeys, or to win the Jeep, you’ll have more than just two minutes of excitement and fun memories with friends that last a lifetime.

After the run for the roses and the live auction action, stay for the dancing with live music provided by Jamie Renee & the Walkers. The

You can learn more about Derby Day, Frederica Academy’s history and programs, purchase

APRIL 2018

t is certainly the season for gardens and galas. There’s yet another event combining the two in the gorgeous setting of Musgrove Retreat and Conference Center on St. Simons Island. The Memory Matters Garden Party will be held on May 12 at the Grovehouse and Gardens at Musgrove. The afternoon affair will begin with a wine tasting and preview of auction items starting at 1:00 p.m. with a live auction at 3:00 p.m. Auction items include art work, like a fantastic original watercolor by local artist Judee Brooks, jewelry, a stay at the Jekyll Island Club with breakfast and golf, and much more! Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be provided by A Moveable Feast and there will be live music by Michael Hulett. All proceeds benefit programs and activities at Memory Matters, a local non-profit that has been helping families dealing with memory issues such as Alzheimer’s Disease since 1994.

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Memory problems can be frightening. Whether it’s something that’s affecting you, someone you know, or someone you love, it can be difficult to know what options exist and what steps to take. The staff of Memory Matters understand this challenge and their mission is to provide support for you as you move forward on this often frustrating and confusing path. Memory Matters was founded as Alzheimer’s of Glynn/ Brunswick in 1994. In 2016, they expanded their mission to include all forms of adult onset memory impairment and renamed the organization Memory Matters. A local independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Memory Matters provides a wide variety of services to both those struggling with memory issues and their caregivers. Because support is vital for indi-

viduals who care for people with memory problems, they provide support groups, memory screenings, and individual consultation service, as well as education through workshops, printed materials, and a speakers bureau. Memory Matters also recognizes that social interaction opportunities are often diminished when there is a diagnosis of dementia and they facilitate social gatherings and activities for persons with memory problems, their caregivers, family, and friends. Please help support the services provided by Memory Matters so they can continue to offer individuals struggling with memory issues and their caregivers the assistance and support they need. To learn more about Memory Matters, visit memorymattersglynn.com. Tickets to the Garden Party are $50 per person and are can be purchased on the website or by calling 912.264.0777. Come stroll the gardens at Musgrove and benefit a good cause.

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Fifty Shades of Fraud By Ben P. Lee, CPA, CFE, CFF, CGMA, CGFM, CGFO Managing Member, Coastal CPAs, LLC

ithin my 42 years of service, I have been involved with many cases involving fraudulent activity. In this two-part series on Fraud, I will share with you some of my experiences and explain how to deter fraud in all types of organizations. Within almost all the fraud cases with which I have been involved, ironically there has also been some form of intimate activity by the fraudster who is committing the fraudulent activity. Hence, the title “Fifty Shades of Fraud.”

CASE 1: QuickBooks users beware! This first case deals with an Office Manager for a group of professionals. This Office Manager was the only person in the corporation in charge of the accounting with no oversight of his actions and accounting duties. Mr. Deception wrote all the checks, made deposits, recorded all transactions in QuickBooks, received the bank statement, reconciled the bank statement, and prepared monthly financial reports to the corporate board. Mr. Deception also had a corporate credit card in his name. In my initial review of the credit card statements I noticed several hotel charges for one-night stays for hotels directly across the street from the office. These were quite numerous. I also noticed many trips to Las Vegas (hotel and airline charges) in his name and the names of other individuals. The next phase of the investigation was interviews. This corporation hired a lot of young college girls on a part-time basis for various administrative duties. For the first interview, I happened to select the receptionist first, 58

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only because she happened to be immediately available. In the interview I inquired about the hotel charges and credit card charges. The response for the hotel charges was “this is where he takes the girls.” Without expanding on the details, suffice it to say that this first interview resulted in an enormous amount of evidence. Mr. Deception was using the stolen funds to induce a lot of the young girls into intimate favors by cash payments, purchase of cars, loans, and other gifts. The Las Vegas trips were gambling trips for Mr. Deception, his pastor, their wives, and other friends. He would come back to the office and boast about the trips and how his pastor had gotten hooked on the gambling. Other funds were used to remodel his home, build a swimming pool, etc.

checks. Copies of the checks were included with the bank statements, which were a laser printed copy. He opened and controlled the bank statements and prepared reconciliations. He would cut out the checks to himself, paste over his name as payee with a name of a proper vendor and paste a copy of the actual signature over his forged signature and then tape the check back in place on the page of cancelled checks. He would then photocopy the bank statement to include in the monthly package to the board. In QuickBooks he would change the payee to a proper vendor. He presented a package to the board every month that included a financial statement, general ledger, and copy of the bank reconciliation and bank statement, all manipulated to agree. A masterful deception!

Mr. Deception was getting an extra “non-taxable” income of approximately $250,000 per year for 10 years. How did he do this?

The credit card fraud was just a complete lack of oversight and trust without verification of trust. The professionals thought he was buying things for the office and never asked to look at his credit card statement. The credit card account from the bank included a credit card for all the professionals and Mr. Deception and was paid with one check for all the cards.

QuickBooks has inherent issues of Fraud Risk. Any transaction can be changed at any time and in any time period. Most accounting software does not allow a change in a transaction after it is posted to the general ledger detail. An adjusting entry has to be made to reflect any changes, which produces an “audit trail.” Mr. Deception was writing checks to himself, forging the payor signatures, and cashing those

Stay tuned! Next month’s article will deal with investigations I’ve done of constitutional officers in County governments and how an organization can have a Fraud Prevention Program to deter fraud.

Coastal CPAs, LLC is a local full-service accounting firm in the Golden Isles. One of the many services of the firm is Fraud and Forensic Investigations, Fraud Prevention consulting and litigation support. Ben Lee is a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified in Financial Forensics. Coastal CPAs, LLC is located at 100 Main Street on St. Simons Island. Ben Lee can be reached at 912.638.1010 or blee@coastalcpasllc.com.

A STELLAR SWEEP

ou’ve probably heard the news by now that Sea Island has been awarded four prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rates for a remarkable TENTH consecutive year. Forbes Travel Guide’s annual list of Star Award-winning establishments worldwide once again included The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island, The Georgian Room restaurant and The Spa at Sea Island as Five-Star designated properties. Sea Island is the only resort in the world to accomplish the feat of earning the four coveted Five-Star ratings for an entire decade. What a way to put the icing on their 90th “Emerald” Anniversary cake! Since opening in 1928, the resort has added various accommodations and enhanced amenities, and continues to achieve esteemed accolades. The Lodge at Sea Island, an intimate 43-room

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

hideaway surrounded by stunning ocean views and two of Sea Island’s three championship golf courses, has been recognized as a Forbes Five-Star property since its opening in 2001. The elegant Georgian Room was first awarded the Five-Star rating in 2008, and is the only restaurant in the state of Georgia to carry this distinction. In 2009, Sea Island’s iconic resort, The Cloister, and the 65,000 square-foot oasis known as The Spa at Sea Island followed suit and were also honored with Forbes Five-Star ratings. The Georgian Room, The Cloister and The Lodge are also AAA Five-Diamond award recipients. In this 90th anniversary year, The Lodge at Sea Island is currently undergoing a $25 million enhancement project that will include six new cottages, a new state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center, an oceanfront pool and pool house, and a new putting course. The project is slated for completion in November.

Forbes Travel Guide has been publishing the Star Rating Awards for 60 years, recognizing the world’s finest properties and rewarding gracious, intuitive service. In 2018, there are only 199 Five-Star recommended hotels in the world, and an elite group of just 13 properties earned Five-Star awards for their hotel, restaurant and spa – including Sea Island. The other member of the Sea Island resort family, The Broadmoor, in Colorado Springs, is the longest consecutive winner of the Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond awards. EIL reached out to Sea Island’s President of Operations/Hotel and Golf, James Gibson, to discuss Sea Island’s stellar accomplishment and impressive history. EIL: What does it feel like to set a world record as the only resort to receive four Forbes Five-Star awards for ten consecutive years?

JG: This is the 60th anniversary of Forbes

awards to hotels, spas, and restaurants in 50 countries. There are only 199 5-star hotels, 60 5-star spas, and 64 5-star restaurants in the entire world. Winning one in a given year is special given that the most exacting standards in the industry are used, emphasizing graciousness, thoughtfulness, and personal service. Being part of a team that continues to set a world record with four is an exceptional honor. EIL: How difficult is it to obtain a 5-star rating?

JG: It takes awareness of

the standards, which means that we have ongoing training programs for current and new team members. It takes commitment and caring, and, more than anything else, having a heart for service and the ability to provide genuine Southern hospitality.

JG: As you can imagine, it’s quite rigorous.

Regarded as the most prestigious standard for luxury hospitality in the world, Forbes has a team of expert inspectors who anonymously evaluate properties against up to 900 rigorous and objective standards in 162 destinations across 50 countries. With anonymous visits, our staff knows that any guest on any given day

could be with Forbes. We have to be on our toes every moment, providing the finest experience possible to all of our guests and members. So it’s not just meeting standards most of the time; it’s meeting them all of the time with great consistency that makes the difference.

day with every guest and member. They are all extremely proud of the awards and of our service legacy and I’m proud to be a part of this team.

EIL: What do you think sets

EIL: Is receiving this distinction extra special this year since it’s the 90th anniversary of Sea Island?

JG: It’s certainly a wonderful James Gibson, Sea Island’s President of Operations/Hotel and Golf

Sea Island apart from other world-class resorts?

JG: Without a doubt, it’s the people who work here. While our guests appreciate the quality of facilities and experiences offered at Sea Island, what we hear repeatedly is that it is our staff that makes a visit to Sea Island

truly special. They provide the genuine, heartfelt Southern hospitality that has set us apart from our earliest days. EIL: What does recognition like this mean to you personally?

JG: All of the pride and recognition goes to EIL: What does it take to maintain that standard on a daily basis?

coincidence, adding a special touch to a milestone year!

our team. Every single member of our staff is responsible for achieving exacting quality every

Since 1928, Sea Island has been known as an exceptional destination appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality. With the four Forbes Five-Star experiences at The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island, The Spa at Sea Island, and the Georgian Room restaurant, Sea Island entices families, outdoor and activity enthusiasts, and those simply wanting to refresh and recharge. Site of a G-8 Summit of world leaders, Sea Island provides exceptional settings and service for conferences and executive retreats. For recreation, Sea Island features five miles of private beach, a Beach Club, tennis and squash centers, Yacht Club, Shooting School, and Camp Cloister. Sea Island is steeped in golf tradition and is home to three championship golf courses, including Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic, as well as the nation’s finest Golf Performance Center. Located on St. Simons Island, The Inn at Sea Island offers comfortable, casual accommodations with access to many Sea Island amenities. Guests may also enjoy nearby Broadfield, a Sea Island Sporting Club and Lodge, offering a variety of seasonal hunting, fishing, sporting and organic culinary opportunities. For additional information about Sea Island or to book a reservation, please visit seaisland.com or call 1.800.SEA.ISLAND. Here’s to 90 years of Southern hospitality, the past ten years of sparkling stars, and the pleasure of experiencing it all right here in our own backyard.

APRIL 2018

BUSINESS BUZZ

NEW OWNERS AT PAUL DAVIS The Greater Brunswick and Golden Isles area property owners will continue to have local experts in emergency services with the new ownership of the locally-owned Paul Davis franchise office. Brian and Laurie Colbert now own and operate Paul Davis Emergency Services of the Golden Isles with service to customers in Glynn, McIntosh, and Long counties along with work in Camden County. The Colberts and their team of professionals focus on emergency services when disaster strikes due to flood, fire, wind, or mold damage.

The local emergency management professionals and highly-trained and certified technicians have vast experience in this specialized industry. Paul Davis Emergency Services of the Golden Isles is a member of the Brunswick-

Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. The company supports the local Salvation Army and Skylark Pregnancy Support Center. Their office is located at 616 Bay Street in Brunswick, 912.634.3344. goldenisles.pauldavis.com.

NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT FRAME SHOP Beverly Drawdy has taken the reins at Main Street Frame Shop. Since Lynn Winchester Stewart opened the shop 30 years ago, Beverly has been by her side. Now that Lynn has retired, it is only fitting that Beverly continues in her footsteps. You’ll see Beverly has made some renovations and improvements in the shop on Newcastle Street, and you know that she’ll continue to provide the same superb service and high-quality framing materials for which Main Street Frames is known. Whether you’re framing documents and awards, family photos, or treasured keepsakes, Main Street Frames is the place to go! Main Street Frame Shop is located at 1403 Newcastle Street in Historic Brunswick, 912.262.0050. And follow them on Facebook too! MUSEUM PROPERTY SAVED BY LAND TRUST The St. Simons Land Trust has acquired the Mildred Huie Museum and surrounding property on Frederica Road. “Because of the historic and cultural significance of this property, it is very important to protect it from high-density development or commercial creep,” said Land Trust executive director David Pope. Located at 1819 Frederica Rd., the land was purchased by renowned artist and historian Mildred Nix Huie and 62

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her husband in the late 1960s and served as her home and studio until the time of her death. Pope says the museum is being evaluated for future uses, outbuildings are being removed, landscaping, walking trails, and seating will be added to open the park to the public. The park will be dedicated by the St. Simons Land Trust to Mildred Huie and Millie Wilcox, both remarkable and talented women who have contributed

to the artistic and cultural legacy of St. Simons. “The park will serve as an ongoing testament to their contribution to the art and life of this island,” added Pope. sslt.org

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APRIL 2018

BUSINESS BUZZ

IMAGE ARTISANS NOW IN REDFERN Image Artisans Salon is proud to announce that they have expanded to a new location in Redfern Village directly across from Catch 228. They are offering the same quality services for men and women as they have done for many years. Drop by and take advantage of their grand opening specials. Treat yourself to a relaxing all natural manicure and/or pedicure with Denise Hitt, or a new hairstyle, multi-dimensional hair color, or a complete makeover with one of their stylists. They also specialize in make-up, special styles and up-dos for weddings and special events. Image Artisans looks forward to welcoming new clients as well as their existing clientele to their new shop at 254 Redfern Village. To make an appointment, call 912.634.9777.

FESTIVAL MAKES RECORD-BREAKING DONATION The St. Simons Island Food and Spirits Festival recently made a recordbreaking $27,000 donation to Hospice of the Golden Isles. The home-grown culinary event has graciously donated its proceeds each year to Southeast Coastal Georgia’s only non-profit hospice serving Glynn, McIntosh, Camden, Brantley, and Charlton counties since 1980. Pictured: Accepting the check, Karen Brubaker, CEO of Hospice of the Golden Isles, is surrounded by festival board members (from left), Bud St. Pierre, Ben Galland, Patty Crosby, Brad Hummel, Cheryl Hargrove, and Zack Gowen. Keep an eye out for announcements about this year’s festival events.

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HURRICANE NO MATCH FOR COMMUNITY SPIRIT Jekyll Island recently added three new honors to its growing list of awards. The island’s events team accepted gold (Best Creative Idea), silver (Best New Event), and bronze (Best Event Website) Kaleidoscope Awards from the Southeast Festivals and Events Association for Merry Shrimpmas, the one-time-only hybrid event that combined the best elements of the Shrimp & Grits Festival that had been cancelled due to Hurricane Irma with the annual Tree Lighting Festival. The awards were presented at the 15th Annual SFEA Conference in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Selected from more than 150 entries, representing eight states, the competition is fierce. “It’s an honor to be recognized among such a strong field of contenders,” said Nancy Kring Rowan, Jekyll Island Authority director of events. “The event wouldn’t have been possible without the work of the entire JIA team. So, this is really a recognition for everyone – from the gate attendants to the grounds crew – who made it a success.” jekyllisland.com

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APRIL 2018

BUSINESS BUZZ

Take Your Brainstorming Offsite to the Beach

Blend Business And Leisure Do a little R & R Ramp up the ROI

HAPPY 12TH ANNIVERSARY TAKE TOO For over 12 years Take Too has been filling homes with one of a kind pieces from some of the best renowned furniture lines and local interior designers. Roche-Bobois, Henredon, Lee Industries, Hooker and Bungalo 5 are just a few brands their 3,000+ square foot store has supplied at a fraction of retail cost. With a keen eye, proprietor Liz Slapikas handpicks a variety of items for consignment sure to adorn any style of home. Formerly located on Gloucester Street, in historic downtown Brunswick, Take Too relocated across from the Ritz Theatre in 2015. With a fresh new facade and an ever-changing inventory, Take Too is a destination for those who may be furnishing a

rental, completing a game room, or designing an entire new space. With sofas, chairs, beds, lamps, architectural doors and so much more, they truly are “The Designer Consignor.” 1527 Newcastle Street, Brunswick, 912.279.2478. Find us on FB @taketoobrunswick.

BENCH STRENGTH @ H2O Please join h2o creative group in welcoming the two newest additions to the h2o family: Rebecca “Becca” Bolettieri and Oliver “Oliver” Thompson. Becca, a Brunswick High alumna and graduate of North Texas State University, returned to The Golden Isles a few short years ago and has been working as a full-time member of the staff in the Account Services Department & Social Media Team. “Becca is an incredible personality that takes it to the next level. ‘It’ meaning everything,” stated h2o President John Daniel. Oliver, an extremely creative soul, joins the graphic design team to bring the seating to boy-girl-boy-

girl in the creative department. Another Southeast GA native, Oliver comes to the water by way of St. Marys and is a graduate of Valdosta State University. Both Oliver and Becca will continue h2o’s tradition of great people of great talents and diversity. h2o creative group, 1206 Newcastle St. Brunswick, 912.275.7846, h2ocreativegroup.com

A Lifestyle Sandbox is a unique brainstorming approach to refine and redesign your experience at work, lifestyle off hours, and results in both.

LEARN HOW TO BLEND BUSINESS AND LEISURE Curious? Call (800) 916-5835 507 Ocean Blvd Suite 218 St. Simons Island, GA

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NEW BOARD MEMBERS NAMED AT PRIMESOUTH PrimeSouth Bank announces the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: John Rogers, Patrick Parker, and Gordon Strother. All served on the former Atlantic National Bank Board of Directors and John Rogers, the organizing director and CEO of the former Atlantic Bank, also serves as President for the Brunswick market of Prime South. “We

are excited to have each of these gentlemen join our board as they embody the spirit of community and bring insight, expertise and energy to our organization. We are very fortunate to have them by our side as we continue to strengthen the Glynn County Market,” says Jim Walker, PrimeSouth Bank Chief Executive Officer. This addition increases the size of the PrimeSouth Board to 10 members. Each market PrimeSouth serves has local representation on its Board of Directors. With local leadership as the driving force behind PrimeSouth Bank, customers will continue to experience the superior customer service and financial confidence that only a community break can offer. primesouth.com PICTURED (from left) Patrick Parker, Jim Walker;

PrimeSouth Bank Chief Executive Officer, John Rogers, Gordon Strother

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APRIL 2018

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G

PURE GOLD Join Golden Isles Ballet on Sunday, April 22 for another Golden Gala. This year ten professional ballet dancers from all over the world will display the most exciting and beautiful pas de deux. The performances will take place at The Vine’s new St. Simons Island event space, The Greenhouse, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $50 for general admission, $35 for students, and $100 for a VIP Experience. Tickets can be purchased at Golden Ballet and The Ritz Theatre in Brunswick or at Uncle Don’s Local Market on St. Simons Island, or online at goldenislesballet.com. For more information, call 912.289.2120. It’s sure to be a golden evening.

GRAB YOUR CLUBS FOR THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB Join the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia on May 4th for their 30th annual golf tournament at Jekyll Island Golf Club. The day begins with breakfast, Bloody Marys and mimosas at Gnat’s Landing at 10:00 a.m., with a bus departing for Jekyll Island at 11:00 a.m. Registration opens at 11:30 a.m. at the Jekyll Island Golf Club and the shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m. Spouses and family are welcome to join the golfers at Gnat’s Landing at 5:00 p.m. for the After Party. Registration is $100 per person/$400 per team and includes tournament fees, shared cart fee, breakfast, lunch, range balls, after-party at Gnat’s Landing. A portion of beverage sales from 4:00 p.m. to close supports the Boys & Girls Club. For more information, contact Brooke Parmelee at 404.904.1611 or developmentbgcglynn@gmail.com.

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IT’S A TRADITION! The 80th Annual Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet will take place at Mary Ross Waterfront Park on Friday, May 11 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the actual blessing of the boats being held on Saturday, May 12 at 2:00 p.m. This two-day celebration of the shrimping industry and seaside living is one of the best that Coastal Georgia has to offer with fresh seafood, local culture, boating, water activities and sports, arts, crafts and variety of leisure activities. The festival will feature fun and games for the kids, fabulous food, live music on Saturday by Albert Jerome Lee, the Matt Brantley Band, and the Randall Bramblett Band, great family entertainment, and a variety of artists and displays. For updated information, visit brunswickblessing.com.

APRIL 2018

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G

AN EVENING WITH THE STARS Sea Island, Elegant Island Living, and Edward Jones, present an “Evening with the Stars,” a culinary event, on April 19th, at Sea Island’s Retreat Clubhouse. The advanced culinary students of Golden Isles College & Career Academy will work side-by-side preparing the meal with Sea Island chefs for a special evening supporting the Career Academy Foundation. A social hour which includes drinks and appetizers will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by a dinner buffet and special remarks from Maestro Luis Haza. There will be silent and live auc-

ATTENTION BOOK LOVERS Jekyll Island is pleased to announce its inaugural book festival. Designed for all bibliophiles, the festival line-up will include a mix of author presentations, meet-and-greet and book signing sessions, book and retail sales, and family-friendly fun. This book lovers bonanza will take place on the Village Green in Beach Village from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on April 7. Presenting authors at the time of writing include avid outdoorswoman and awardwinning author Julia Franks; children’s book author Tara Luebbe; young adult fiction author, professor, and immigration advocate Marie Marquardt; and “a new voice in Southern Fiction,”

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tions and fun for everyone. Tickets are $100 and are available online at gica.us or at GICCA. All proceeds benefit student scholarships, service projects, academic competitions, and business led governance which has helped the Career Academy have a 98% graduation rate in 2017 for students who attended at least two semesters. Sponsorships are still available starting at $300. Con-

tact Rick Townsend for additional information at 912.506.5347 or rick.townsend@gica.us.

Kay Dew Shostak. Planning is still underway at this time, so check the website for more details at jekyllisland.com.

leading up to Victory Gala. Whether you choose to fish in the tournament or just come out for the band party, it’s always a fun time for a good cause! We’ll have more details next month, in the meantime, keep an eye on the American Cancer Society Victory Board Facebook page and their website at main.acsevents.org for updates.

SAVE THE DATE Gas up the boat and bait your hooks! The 2018 Reelin’ in a Cure Fishing Tournament will be held on Saturday, May 12 at Morningstar Marina. The planning of the band party is underway and more details will be coming soon about that. A Burgers, BBQ, and Bait get-together and Captains’ Meeting will take place at Certified Burgers & Beverage Thursday, May, 10 to kick off the annual tournament presented by the American Cancer Society Victory Board as part of their 2018 events

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APRIL 2018

S O C I A L

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THE SYMPHONY SOCIETY OUTDID ITSELF WITH THIS YEAR’S CABARET FUNDRAISER, A TRIBUTE TO BROADWAY, AT THE CLOISTER ON SEA ISLAND. The signature fundraising event had a very special significance this year, as it also honored the contributions of Maestro Luis Haza, who will retire at the end of this season. He truly is the “toast of our town.” 1. Michael Frick, Jeanne Earle and Jack McConnell. 2. Brion Trainer, Lisa Martin, Beverly Trainor. 3. Millie Wilcox, Bill Parker, Janice Lamattina. 4. Kathy Jones, Linda Jones. 5. Barbara and Joseph Viggiano, Gloria Tapson, Tom Pristavec. 6. Stacy Schmitz, Kathleen Gansereit, Carl and Catherine Gilchrist. 7. Maestro Luis Haza being recognized for his accomplishments by Terry Readdick. 8. Joel Myers, Susan Imhoff. 9. Bob and Thelma Boles, Ren Gruber. 10. Alison Schueneman, Anna K. Mansfield. 11. Dana and Luis Haza, Marjorie Gruber, Bay Gruber. 12. Merry and Bill Tipton. 13. Edward and Laura DiPreta, Patsy and James Lee. 14. Al and Susan Garrett. 72

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APRIL 2018

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BUBBLY AND BODACIOUS – A PERFECT WAY TO DESCRIBE THE WOMEN, THE WINE, AND THE FASHION AT THIS YEAR’S WINE WOMEN AND SHOES FUNDRAISER to benefit Hospice of the Golden Isles. As always, a cadre of charming Shoe Guys poured wine and showed off the offerings from various retailers, while the women were treated to a delightful lunch, fashion show, and live auction at The Cloister. 1. Shoe Guys Jeremy James, James Sexton. 2. Joanne Zanetos, Hariette Flavio, Corinne Ramsey. 3. Janine Torbert, Lisia Sullins, David Webster. 4. Mary Jo Prater, Ben Lee, Zaida Clay Harris. 5. Dena Lyons, Hilary Lydon Kent, Kay Miller. 6. Carolyn Stevenson, Elizabeth Brown, Melissa Porterfield. 7. Shirley Guthrie, Mona Mounts. 8. Heather Hamilton, Holly Hickman. 9. Linda Noce, Martha Banister, Barbara Nunn. 10. Rebecca Koets, Christi Barber, Nicole Alba, Dr. Jennifer Heller. 11. Shoe Judges. 12. Devin Drury, Catina Tindall. 13. Terri Collins, Stacy Gowen. 14. Keri Anderson, Calee Bickmore, Mimi Luce. 74

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Infant and Children’s Clothing, Gifts and Accessories IN-HOUSE MONOGRAMMING 276-A Redfern Village, St. Simons Island, GA / 912.434.9372

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APRIL 2018

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ZIGGY’S WAS PACKED WITH PROUD PAPAS SHOWING OFF THEIR PRECIOUS GIRLS AT THE FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE PRESENTED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY VICTORY BOARD. This annual fundraiser gives our little beauties a chance to don their prettiest dresses and have an afternoon of dancing, fun, games, photo ops, and prizes with their best guy, all while supporting a good cause. 1. Maggie, Katie, Abbie and Aaron Mumford. 2. Albert Hogan, Sani Hosley. 3. Livi and Richard Scott. 4. Chris and Emmie Drury. 5. Eric and Rowan Dunn. 6. Casey and Vanessa Joiner. 7. Millie, Andrew and Mary West Turner. 8. Brad Brumbach and Valentina Venetico. 9. Eliana and AJ Tucker. 10. Leighton Johnson, Briley and Harper. 11. Guy and Anastasia DeHavillande. 12. Sarah, Jason and Addison Hyde. 13. Sawyer and Rodney Mudd. 14. Jayde and Keon Lumsden. 76

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APRIL 2018

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THE TREEBAR AT BENNIE’S RED BARN HAS BEEN A BUSY PLACE LATELY! KEEP GOLDEN ISLES BEAUTIFUL HELD THEIR ANNUAL COMMUNITY JUBILEE THERE. It was a fun evening with a delicious barbeque dinner, live music by Backbeat Boulevard, and a silent auction that featured unique and beautiful creations made from recycled materials. LATER IN THE MONTH, SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK HELD A SOUPER FUNDRAISER with some

delicious Brunswick Stew, music by Tony Adams, and more silent auction items donated by our generous community. 78

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APRIL 2018

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THE GRAND OPENING OF WAINWRIGHT FIELD WAS A NIGHT OF BIG VICTORIES FOR THE GLYNN ACADEMY RED TERROR BASEBALL TEAM. There was a brief dedication ceremony and St. Louis Cardinals ace Adam Wainwright threw out the ceremonial first pitch. The Terrors prevailed in the 2018 season opening game against Brantley County. Thank you to the Wainwright family for such a wonderful gift to our student athletes and the community. (Photos by Cindy Stephenson.) 1. Reese Wright, Amy Debreceni, Mark Hannah, John Helfrich, Lawton Lee, Peter Bufkin. 2. Gabriella, Jennifer and Colin Beuning Morgan, Kody and Ethan Reynolds. 3. Rooker Hobby, Will Pralinsky, Wesley Gash, Ethan Studstill with Adam Wainwright. 4. Buzz and Kaki Yarborough. 5. Lisa, Dickie and Jack Anderson. 6. Adam Wainwright with his ladies, Sadee, Jenny, Macy James, Grace, and Morgan. 7. Ginger and William Dupree. 8. Hank, Jack, Rachel and Orion Yeargan. 9. Millard Allen, Mike Hulsey, Domenic McClinton. 10. Kirk Lambright, Channing and Will Orendorf, Kristin Stenzel. 11. Rocky Hidalgo, Tom Wolfe, Tony Pralinsky, Bill Fallon. 12. Nancy Wainwright, Brenda Langley, Mae, John and Nancy Rentz, Margot Howard, Pat Walker. 13. Spence Hartman, Jim and Pat Hill, Leslie Hartman. 14. Daniel Pritchard, Kameron Smith, Drake Stephenson, Riley Collier, Elizabeth Dyal. 80

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FEBRUARY IS A MONTH FOR RUNNING IN THE GOLDEN ISLES. FROM THE SOUTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM FOUNDATION BRIDGE RUN TO SUPER DOLPHIN DAY BENEFITING ST. SIMONS ELEMENTARY AND OGLETHORPE POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS, THERE ARE FUN WALKS, 5K RACES, 10K RACES, AND, THIS YEAR, A HALF-MARATHON. It’s great to see so many participants of all ages, families and groups all running

together and supporting each other. Lace up your running shoes for next year’s events! 82

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

A Quaint Beach Neighborhood Grocery Store GRAB A SCOOP OF ICE CREAM ON THE GO!

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APRIL 2018

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THRIVE AT FREDERICA RECENTLY HOSTED A PATRIOTIC EVENING WITH USO SHOW-STYLE ENTERTAINMENT AND A DELICIOUS DINNER PREPARED BY CHEF BETHANY FAHEY. There were several veterans in attendance and proceeds from the event and wine tree raffle will benefit Coastal Georgia

Honor Flight. Learn more about Coastal Georgia Honor Flight and how you can help America’s true heroes take the trip of a lifetime at coastalgeorgiahonorflight.org. See story on page 50. Find out what sets Thrive apart at thriveatfrederica.com. 84

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THE ST. SIMONS ISLAND VILLAGE WAS THE PLACE FOR PUPS TO BE DURING THE ANNUAL BARK FOR LIFE KICK-OFF PUP CRAWL. Participants registered their pooches at Island Dog and made their way around the village, visiting shops and restaurants for special treats and libations, games and prizes. Bark for Life benefits the American Cancer Society as a Relay for Life fundraiser. Relay for Life Glynn County takes place April 20 at Golden Isles Church of God, located at 200 Boswell Lane in Brunswick. 1. Arlene with Darby. 2. Jane with Starlord, Amanda with Ghost. 3. John with Molly. 4. Mike with Axel. 5. Margo and Chico. 6. Sherrie and Sassy. 7. Donna and Rolf with Lucy. 8. Kasey with Snoopy. 9. Kaylin with Charlie. 10. Matt with Jessie, Chris with Woody. 11. Belinda with Lili. 12. Rainey with Rebel, Cameron with Brewster, Valerie with Annabelle. 13. Katie with Izzie. 14. Olivia with Bubbs. 86

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APRIL 2018

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IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL NIGHT AT MUSGROVE RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER FOR THE ANNUAL STARLIGHT & SPARTINA FUNDRAISER FOR COASTAL WILDSCAPES. Guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, had an opportunity for an up close and personal visit with a falcon, and learned about history. The setting could not have been more gorgeous. 1. Sandy and Michael Nyenhuis. 2. Marty Moody, Whit Wright. 3. Christa Hayes, Linda Lamb, Lucy Thomas. 4. Thomas Angel, Jody Furr. 5. Stephanie Knox, Susan Shipman. 6. Megan Kuntze, Carolyn Williams. 7. Becky and John Marshall, Hyde and Robin Post. 8. Mindi Morrall, Christy Lambert, Laura Powell. 9. Janet Yeager, Amy Schuler. 10. Patty Deveau, Tonya Lam. 11. Aimee Gaddis, Will and Ashby Worley. 12. Leslie and Vince DeHore. 13. Linda Olsen, Ken Thomas. 14. Mike and Beth Pasakarnis. 88

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Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sunday 12n - 5 p.m. 3415 Frederica Rd. | St. Simons Island | Located next to Delaney’s and Sal’s

APRIL 2018

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THE ANNUAL RED HOT CHILI COOKOFF PRESENTED BY THE GOLDEN ISLES ROTARY CLUB ONCE AGAIN SIGNALED THE BEGINNING OF SPRING WEATHER AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ON ST. SIMONS ISLAND. With live music by The Stringrays and lots of delicious chili to taste

from the participating teams, it was a fantastic way to spend a Saturday with a few thousand of your closest friends and neighbors.

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

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Home Accessories of all Kinds including 1800 count bedding sets in many colors. 100 Sylvan Drive Suite 150 St. Simons Island

(912) 638-8344 Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Lamp Repairs of all kinds Including Custom Design

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APRIL 2018

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THE KING AND PRINCE GOLF COURSE GROUNDS WERE THE SITE FOR BOTH FISHING AND GOLFING DURING THE ANNUAL BIRDIES AND BASS BENEFIT FOR FAITHWORKS. This fun tournament allows teams to catch fish to lower their scores in the golf scramble that follows after lunch. 1. Sydney Galloway, Patricia Galloway, Wright Culpepper, Tommy Cason, Gary Galloway. 2. Bill Acree, Jack Denker. 3. Tom Spafford, Beth Jennings, Mike Murphy. 4. Edna Romano, Cindy Acree. 5. Lynn and Larry Kennedy. 6. Tommy Stroud, Spud Woodward, Brad Stroud. 7. Tom Bullock, Arnold Adcock, Bo Godley, Richie Gibbs. 8. Jim Warr, Harrison Warr, Patrick Jones, Logan Jones. ECHO AT THE KING AND PRINCE RESORT PROVIDED A LOVELY BACKDROP FOR A FOUNDERS’ DAY HAPPY HOUR FOR THE NEWLY FORMED GOLDEN ISLES ALUMNI CHAPTER OF THE PHI MU NATIONAL SORORITY. Their mission is to serve as a resource for local members and those new to the area who would like to become involved in social activities as well as philanthropic and collegiate support on a local and regional level. 9. Phi Mu Golden Isles Alumni Chapter. 10. Liz Okey, Caroline Champion. 11. Sharon Proudfoot, Libby Sweat, Anna Tillman, Kim Coolidge. 12. Anna Stroud, Deborah Rice. 13. Jennifer Buckhalt, Zaida Clay Harris, Julie Caldwell. 14. Mary Sapp, Nancy Rentz, Margaret McKensie Souther. 92

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APRIL 2018

SSI ARCHIVES

The “Club” at the End of the Causeway

he April 1, 1939 Mail-Away edition of the Brunswick Pilot newspaper featured an article about a building that most of us have driven by, but very few have visited – the original Mediterranean-style visitors center located at the entrance to the F. J. Torras Causeway.

In the mid-1930s, the local Board of Trade sought to capture the attention of motorists on the Coastal Highway (U.S. 17) by erecting a “Visitors Club” at the entrance to St. Simons Island. The Club was one of the first of its kind, not only encouraging motorists to stop to visit the Golden Isles but also inspiring other communities across the South to emulate the example. Local architect Francis Abreu was chosen to design an appropriate structure for the Club. Of Cuban descent,

Abreu was born in New York state and graduated with a degree in architecture from Cornell University. After Abreu developed a successful practice in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Alfred W. Jones, Sr. encouraged him to move to Glynn County. He became architect for the Sea Island Company and designed additions to The Cloister, as well as new buildings for the resort. Well known for his work in the Mediterranean style, he designed a number of fashionable cottages on Sea Island, including Casa Genotta, the home of playwright Eugene O’Neill. Abreu also served as an architect for Glynn County and his projects included the present day St. Simons Island Casino.

research in and around Brunswick.” The grounds surrounding the building provided an opportunity to showcase “beautiful specimens of plant life of this immediate area.” Preceding the Coastal Georgia Historical Society’s own Museum of Coastal History (the present-day St. Simons Lighthouse Museum) by over 30 years, the Visitors Club may have been Glynn County’s first history museum. As the Causeway expanded to allow more traffic onto St. Simons, both tourist and residential, the visitors center was relocated and traffic lanes now surround the original structure.

In addition to being the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce, the Visitors Club contained “valuable files of information concerning the community” and “exhibits of material produced both by modern industry and archeological

This month’s image, from the April 1, 1939 Brunswick Pilot Mail-Away edition, shows the Visitors Club shortly after it opened. A copy of this newspaper is preserved in the Coastal Georgia Historical Society archives.

Our monthly images on this page are from the vast archives of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. The Society’s mission includes the “administration, restoration and maintenance of historic facilities and resources … preserved as a living part of the historical and cultural foundations of our coastal community.” Society facilities include the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum, the A.W. Jones Heritage Center, and the Maritime Center (formerly the U.S. Coast Guard Station). To learn more about the Society, its diverse programs, and the benefits of Society membership, please call (912) 638.4666, or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.

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Elegant Island Living April 2018

Articles inside

What’s Happening

A Stellar Sweep

Gardens & Galas

Juleps, Jockeys & a Jeep

More than a Decade of Dedication

Tea Time

Embrace Your Space

Comrades in Arms

Fifty Shades of Fraud

Celebrating 90 Years