Elegant Island Living - October 2024

Beware of Cyber Scammers

Can you really get free, fast, and easy money from your bank? A “glitch” at Chase Bank that allegedly allowed people to withdraw “unlimited” sums of cash regardless of available funds recently went viral on social media. Users on various platforms shared a meme prompting individuals to request cash they didn’t have via ATM withdrawals after depositing a phony check at the ATM for the amount they were seeking. However, within 24 hours, after Chase discovered the suspicious activity, users reported having their bank accounts blocked and the transactions are now being investigated as check fraud. The lesson? Don’t fall for viral get-rich-quick schemes!

It’s not just Millennials and Gen Z who can fall for online scams. Recently, my mom’s Facebook account was hacked, and she was suddenly presented as a Bitcoin expert. Friends began congratulating her and asking how they could achieve financial independence by investing in crypto. The most frustrating part? She couldn’t get rid of the hacker or even close her account.

Here are some tips to help protect you and your accounts from cyber theft no matter your age:

1. USE STRONG, UNIQUE PASSWORDS. When creating passwords for online accounts, use a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t use the same password across multiple sites.

2. ENABLE TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION. For an extra layer of security, whenever possible enable two-factor authentication, which requires an additional form of verification like a text or app code before logging in.

3. BEWARE OF PHISHING SCAMS. Be suspicious of unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls asking for personal information or urging you to click on links to access or provide information. Always verify the source before clicking or responding.

4. KEEP DEVICES UPDATED AND USE ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE. Keep the operating systems/software updated on all your computers, smartphones, and tablets. Regular software updates often include important security patches to protect against the latest threats. Install reliable antivirus software and run regular virus scans.

5. KEEP PERSONAL INFORMATION PRIVATE. Limit the personal information you share on social media or public websites. Cyber thieves can use seemingly harmless details (like answers provided in trendy online quizzes and personality profiles) to gain access to your accounts or create phishing scams that target you.

PUBLISHER

David Butler

EDITORIAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Kathi Williams

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Pamela Anderson

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Brian Henderson

Misty Johns

Donna MacPherson

Sherieen Pretorius

Dave Snyder

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Annaliese Kondo, Studio Pixel Pop

Tim Rude, Fierce Creative

ON THE COVER:

Raise a glass with us as we introduce this month’s inaugural St. Simons Island Wine Festival and celebrate the fruit of the vine.

From a Wray, Georgia vineyard keeping the legacy of Southern muscadine alive to what’s on the shelves of the stores and what’s being poured around the Golden Isles, in this issue we shine a spotlight on the world of wine.

Elegant IslandLiving is published monthly. Reproduction of any photographs, artwork, or copy prepared by Elegant Island Living is strictly 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 files submitted to Elegant Island Living become property of the magazine. ©2024 Elegant Island Living P.O. Box 21763 St. Simons Island, GA 31522. All Rights Reserved.

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"Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance."

~Benjamin Franklin

FOR THE LOVE OF

Wine

The Golden Isles is a community of oenophiles, wine connoisseurs, and even some sensational sommeliers. We have numerous restaurants with stellar wine collections, fabulous wine bars that host regular tastings, and various venues offering special pairing dinners that showcase excellent food and wine selections carefully curated by our local grape gurus. Popular perennial fundraisers include ladies’ sip and shop favorite, Wine, Women & Shoes, and the always spectacular Taste of the Vine.

With wine as our strong common root, we’re following the twisting vines through a variety of topics, events, and locations to bring you The Wine Issue. First, we’re sounding a herald for the inaugural St. Simons Island Wine Festival in October. This highly anticipated event is a newly founded fundraiser presented by and benefiting Glynn Visual Arts and Elegant Island Living is excited to be a sponsor. The Festival’s Sherieen Pretorius shares the details and what we can expect during opening VIP Wine Tasting and Auction at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort and the following day’s Grand Tasting Event in the Posh Carts Hangar at St. Simons Island Airport. We hope to see you there.

In these pages, we’re also delving into the world of muscadines and Georgia wines, tannins and terroir, swirling, savoring, and more. You’ll also find helpful information about local offerings and wine selections from the experts. Whether you fancy white, red, or rose, and buy by the case, bottle, or box, we invite you to join us in celebrating the vines, vintages, and vino we love.

Cheers! Santé! Salute! Salud!

THE ART OF Wine

A Celebration of Culture, Community & Great Taste in the Golden Isles

BY SHERIEEN PRETORIUS

Wine and art share a profound connection, both serving as expressions of time, place, and human experience. Both are deeply rooted in culture, engaging multiple senses and igniting passionate exchange among enthusiasts and novices alike. Wine tantalizes with its aroma, taste, and visual appeal, while art captivates through sight, and sometimes touch or sound, creating immersive experiences that spark conversation and reflection.

Yet just under this weighty sentiment lies the core of what draws people to these oldest of life’s pleasures: joy! It is in this spirit that Glynn Visual Arts is proud to present the inaugural St. Simons Island Wine Festival in October, bringing people together over the perfect pairing of fine wine and art to benefit the arts and education here at home.

Perfectly located on St. Simons Island, recently recognized as the #1 Best Island in the Continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure® for the second consecutive year, the St. Simons Island Wine Festival promises to be a lively community event. The festival is the brainchild of a dedicated group of individuals who recognized the appeal of an event that celebrates the intertwining of wine, art, and service.

As Emma Humphries, Chair of the St. Simons Island Wine Festival, notes, "We have been overwhelmed with enthusiasm and support. It's clear that our community is thirsty for a charity wine festival, and that industry folks are eager to showcase their products in the Golden Isles. We look forward to wowing everyone with an incredible inaugural event!"

This two-day affair, taking place on October 18-19, 2024, is more than just a celebration – it's a fundraiser for the arts and education, with all proceeds benefiting Glynn Visual Arts (GVA) and the College of Coastal Georgia's Department of Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts.

elevated charcuterie presentation curated by resort executive chef Thomas Cook. Live entertainment and a wine-centric silent auction will add to the evening's allure.

The Grand Tasting that will be held in the Posh Carts Hangar at the St. Simons Island Airport on Saturday, October 19, is shaping up to be the highlight of the weekend. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample unique and exciting wines from over 25 vendors, representing renowned wine regions from California, Oregon, France, Italy, South Africa, Argentina, Austria and Slovenia. The event will also showcase live music by popular local band Rider, various art demonstrations, and vendors, creating a true feast for the senses.

As you sip and savor the diverse array of wines, remember that each glass tells a story – of the soil, the climate, the winemaker's craft, and the culture from which it originates. Similarly, the art demonstrations and exhibitions will offer glimpses into the collective voice of human experience, reflecting the time and place of their creation.

Kari Morris, Executive Director of GVA, emphasizes the festival's alignment with the organization's mission in sharing, "For over 70 years, Glynn Visual Arts has hosted events that promote learning, creativity, and a sense of community — and that is precisely what this wine festival is about. We can't wait to demonstrate our mission, support important causes and enjoy delicious wines!"

A VIP Wine Tasting & Auction at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort will kick off the event on Friday, October 18. This exclusive evening will feature premium and rare wines, accompanied by an

The St. Simons Island Wine Festival isn’t just an event – it's a testament to the power of community and the arts. It's an opportunity to come together, to appreciate the complexity of wine and art, and to support vital educational and cultural initiatives in the Golden Isles.

The festival has already garnered significant support from founding sponsors, including Rich's, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, JP's Wine and Spirits, Sea Palms Resort, LiveOak Fiber, 365 Degree Total Marketing, Posh Carts, Seban's Insurance Solutions, and Lighthouse Financial Advisors. Their generosity underscores the community's commitment to fostering art, education, and cultural experiences.

As the festival approaches, the organizers are calling on the community to show their support by purchasing tickets or inquiring about available sponsorship opportunities. Please note, ticket holders must be 21 or older to attend. These events will be presented rain or shine. Please leave pets at home; only service animals are permitted. Exceptional accommodations are available via Official Lodging Partner, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, an art enthusiast, someone who appreciates the finer things in life, or a fan of the Golden Isles seeking an exciting weekend, this Festival promises something for everyone.

So let's raise a glass to the St. Simons Island Wine Festival, an event that – like a fine wine –promises to develop, mature, and deepen in complexity with each passing year. Join us in October as we celebrate the art of wine, wine in art, and our vibrant community that brings it all together.

For more information about the festival, including ticket details and purchase link, event schedule, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit ssiwinefestival.com.

Treasured Trio A

From an exceptional fine dining experience to casual yet cozy date night bites to breakfast on the fly, the Georgia Sea Grill Collective restaurant family has you covered. At the helm is Zack Gowen, an active community member and restauranter with a proven track record of providing fresh and flavorful food, with as much as possible grown or produced locally or regionally, at establishments staffed by dedicated workers who make your experience enjoyable. Georgia Sea Grill, The Nest, and Three Little Birds, serving locally grown produce and farm-raised catfish are a treasured trio in the Golden Isles and perfect spots to enjoy some vino!

THE NEST 511 OCEAN BOULEVARD

Cole Travers, manager at The Nest, puts the atmosphere there into words perfectly, saying, “The Nest has a cozy vibe, great food, killer tunes, and wonderful wine selection to give the guest the experience that is similar to cooking dinner with your closest friends over a glass of wine and some of your favorite music after an incredible day at the beach.”

At The Nest, you’ll find a wide range of wines at prices that won’t break the bank. Some interesting and fun to drink choices are as the Slo Jams Sauvignon Blanc (It’s worth checking out just for the cool cassette tape label, which Cole says is his favorite!) and the Tooth and Nail cabernet, both of which are under $13 a glass.

GEORGIA SEA GRILL 407 MALLERY STREET

But if higher-end wines are your preference, The Nest’s Coravin system technology allows the staff to serve wines by the glass that would normally only be available by the bottle. If you’ve always wanted to try that $350 bottle of wine, now is your chance! The unique system uses pressurized air cartridges to keep wines in uncorked condition for up to a year. At press time, the Coravin menu at The Nest included three reds: Montepeloso Super Tuscan, Groth Napa Valley Cabernet, and Bethel Heights Pinot Noir and two whites:Albert Bichot Chardonnay and Les Boursicottes Sancerre. The Nest also offers non-alcoholic wine options (and n/a beers too!) With their extensive wine menu, there is not a food item here that will not help you pair with the perfect wine.

Whether you’re carrying on family traditions or starting new ones, Georgia Sea Grill is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. You will be treated like family from the elegant dining room to the enticing wine bar. If you enjoy live music to enhance the mood, there’s even a piano bar with talented musicians performing nightly. Seafood is their specialty, and fresh ingredients are their trademark, but every offering from their seasonal menus and incredible daily specials is sure to please your palate. If you’re just dropping by after work or before heading out for the evening, their First Call menu of small plates is available daily from 5-6:30 p.m. at the main and wine bars.

When it comes to the wine, their staff is extremely well-versed in pairing wines to complement dishes on the menu. If you’re not sure what to order, ask them and share a little about your preferences, and they’ll readily offer the perfect pairing. Georgia Sea Grill manager Alex Burroughs provided some suggestions for our readers. “Try the Gotas De Mar Albariño with notes of peaches, minerals and a hint of salt from the sea with the mussels or our Cajun preparation for our catch of the day.” Alex was even knowledgeable about the wine bottle! “The white stripes on the Albariño bottle represent the white caps of the ocean on the Spanish coast where the grapes are produced, and that is why there are hints of sea salt in the wine.” If your selection for the evening isn’t seafood, he recommends the BV Rutherford with its blackberry, black cherry and plum flavors to pair with their filet, pork chop or lamb dishes. You’re in good hands here!

THREE LITTLE BIRDS 509 OCEAN BOULEVARD

Don’t forget brunch! Three Little Birds offers an exceptional breakfast and lunch menu including a limited selection of wine. Manager Monica Andreae suggests grabbing a glass to sip on their patio and soak in the island air from your perch at the outdoor bar. Three Little Birds offers selections of wines by the glass or bottle, including bottomless mimosas for $20. The Montparnasse Brut Champagne is fantastic on its own or in a mimosa with Natalie's Orange Juice. Pair it with an item off the breakfast menu and your weekend is off to a great start! If you're on the go or want something to take to the beach, the Archer Roose canned wine works in a pinch for sparkling white or sparkling rose. Cheers!

For more information about the Georgia Sea Grill Collective restaurants, links to their menus, online ordering, and to make reservations, visit collective.georgiaseagrill.com.

Cole Travers

Alex Burroughs

Hospitality LEGACY OF

A WINE LOVER’S HAVEN AT JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB RESORT

Jekyll Island Club Resort is steeped in a rich history of Southern hospitality, offering an elegant setting for wine enthusiasts who appreciate a harmonious blend of history and luxury. With its idyllic landscape and impeccable service, the resort is a beacon of sophisticated hospitality on Jekyll Island. For wine lovers, it’s more than just a destination; it’s a journey into the finer things in life.

At Jekyll Island Club Resort, guests are invited to indulge in unique winecentered experiences designed to celebrate the art of winemaking while embracing the island’s breathtaking beauty. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a memorable evening, the resort offers a variety of settings that make every sip special.

SPARKLING WINE SABERING & SUNSET TOAST

A Celebration of Elegance

Each weekend, Jekyll Island Club Resort upholds one of its most iconic traditions—sparkling wine sabering. This elegant ceremony, held against the stunning backdrop of Jekyll Island’s sunsets, is a moment to savor both fine wine and the natural beauty of the island. Guests witness the dramatic spectacle of a bottle of sparkling wine being opened with a saber, a tradition dating back to Napoleonic times.

The event concludes with a sunset toast, as guests raise their glasses to celebrate the close of another perfect day on the island. The sky transforms into a canvas of pink, gold, and purple hues, while the wine

bubbles in your glass, creating a timeless sense of celebration in this luxurious setting.

EIGHTY OCEAN KITCHEN AND BAR

Coastal Cuisine Meets Wine Excellence

For those seeking a culinary adventure, Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar offers the ideal setting. Featuring a menu inspired by the coast, every dish is thoughtfully crafted to pair with the restaurant’s extensive wine list. The food and wine pairings are designed to enhance your dining experience, ensuring that both flavors shine in harmony.

Imagine indulging in freshly caught seafood, perfectly complemented by a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or savoring a rich steak paired with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The restaurant’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere creates the perfect environment for a memorable evening of fine dining and wine appreciation.

THE

WHARF

Riverfront Dining with a Wine Lover’s Twist

For a more casual experience, The Wharf provides a delightful riverside escape. This laid-back restaurant is perfect for unwinding with friends or loved ones, offering a diverse wine list that complements its menu of fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes.

Live music fills the air as you enjoy your meal with stunning riverfront views. The Wharf’s outdoor seating is ideal for sunset dining, where you can sip on your favorite wine while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Whether you're enjoying a chilled rosé or a hearty red, The Wharf offers a relaxed, wine-filled evening of casual sophistication.

SPECIALTY WINE DINNERS

A Gastronomic Experience Like No Other

For those looking to elevate their wine experience, Jekyll Island Club Resort offers exclusive specialty wine dinners. These curated events feature multi-course meals artfully paired with premium wines, selected by the resort’s talented chefs and sommeliers. Each course is designed to highlight the interplay between flavors and textures, creating a dining experience that is both harmonious and indulgent.

These wine dinners provide an opportunity to explore both classic and innovative wine pairings, guided by the expertise of the resort’s culinary team. Be sure to check the resort’s event calendar for upcoming wine dinners—each one promises a unique blend of fine food and fine wine.

CURATED WINE LIST

A Selection for Every Palate

At Jekyll Island Club Resort, the wine list is as diverse as the island itself.

The resort offers a curated selection of wines from world-renowned vineyards and emerging wine regions, ensuring that there’s a perfect bottle for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a bold red, a crisp white, or a sparkling wine to celebrate a special occasion, you’ll find an ideal pairing at one of the resort’s dining venues.

The resort’s sommeliers are always available to offer expert recommendations, helping you discover new wines that perfectly complement your meal. With wines sourced from both iconic and emerging regions, the list introduces guests to exciting new flavors while celebrating timeless classics.

THE PERFECT SETTING FOR WINE LOVERS

Jekyll Island Club Resort is more than just a luxurious destination—it’s a place where history, elegance, and a love for fine wine come together to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you're taking part in the sparkling wine sabering ceremony, enjoying a sunset toast, or indulging in a gourmet meal paired with the perfect wine, the resort offers countless ways to celebrate the art of living well.

For wine enthusiasts seeking a place to indulge their passion in a truly stunning setting, Jekyll Island Club Resort offers the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and indulgence. From its rich legacy of Southern hospitality to its modern wine experiences, the resort is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Muscadines THE MAGIC OF

If you grew up outside of the South, you may never have heard of muscadines or scuppernongs. The muscadine species of grapes, which includes a variety of cultivars (like scuppernongs), is only native to the Southeast. Here, hot temperatures and ample rain allow it to flourish both in the wild and in cultivated vineyards. Muscadine’s range extends from Delaware to central Florida, but you’ll find most commercial vineyards south of Kentucky.

What sets these grapes apart from others? Most of the wines we drink today, like Cabernet, Chardonnay, etc. come from grapevines of the species Vitis vinifera, which is native to the Mediterranean region. Other species of grape, Vitis labrusca, is typically crossed with vinifera varieties to produce table grapes. Vitis rotunifolia, or Muscadine, was discovered growing rampantly in America by Spanish and French explorers when they settled here. This highly adaptable thick-skinned grape thrives in hot, humid climates, and is highly pest and disease resistant. Vines were everywhere! The new settlers began cultivating it for wine production as early as the mid 1500s in Florida.

heralded as “the dean of American Wine Growers.” Today, approximately 81% of the wine in the U.S. is produced in California, followed by New York, Washington, and Oregon.

Because the muscadine grapes tasted very different from the grapes the Europeans were used to, they added large amounts of sugar to the wine to make it more palatable. This carried on through the years as tradition and contributed to the reputation muscadine wine has for being overly sweet. However, that assessment is unfair. Muscadine wines now come in white, red and rose, and range from dry to very sweet. The wines are medium to full bodied and are best served chilled. There are even muscadine dessert wines similar to Port.

In the 1800s and early 1900s until Prohibition, the wine industry in the South was based mostly on muscadines and scuppernongs. Just before Prohibition, the most popular wine in America was a scuppernong-based wine known as “Virginia Dare” and its vintner, Paul Garrett, was widely

The muscadine hasn’t completely lost its popularity by any means, however. The resilience and adaptability of the species lends itself to crossbreeding and it has proven to be very important in viticulture. Because muscadines contain one of the highest levels of total antioxidants, polyphenols, and ellagic acid of any fruit tested, they are also harvested for their health benefits and made into dietary supplements from juices and oils to powders and capsules. The benefits of muscadines extend into cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and even anti-aging health. The University of Georgia is home to the oldest muscadine breeding program in the nation. Thanks to programs like theirs and the one at the University of Florida, there are currently more than 300 different strains of muscadine that have been either cultivated or bred for commercial use. These strains vary in sugar content, acidity, tannin and polyphenol level, skin color, and flavor. Besides the Scuppernong, other popular strains are Carlos, Noble, and Black Beauty. Whether they are used to make jellies, preserves, juices, or wine, the heritage of muscadines remains as strong as its roots and the vines that continue to twine themselves through Georgia and beyond.

Jacob Willis Paulk with sons Gary, JW Jr, and grandson Chris

INNOVATION MEETS

Tradition

Alittle more than two hours away from the Golden Isles, in Wray, Georgia, sits the largest muscadine vineyard in the world— Paulk Vineyards. The Paulk family has established a legacy in the muscadine industry, growing from their first vine of muscadine planted in 1970 to over 800 acres of muscadines and scuppernongs harvested for fresh produce sales, as well as processing into juices, jellies, supplements, and wine. Their family has farmed this land for six generations, evolving from traditional row crops like cotton, peanuts, and soybeans, to a variety of fruit, including the mighty muscadine.

They have merged innovation with tradition over the years, using modern industry and technology to support a rich farming heritage. They ensure the food and beverage products they create are of the highest quality by using healthy, fresh muscadines straight from the farm where they are grown, combined with natural ingredients, processed as simply as possible.

If you visit Paulk Vineyards, you’ll find fresh muscadines and scuppernongs, available seasonally, in August and September, as as strawberries in March-April and blackberries in May-June, plus the delicious food and beverage products made from the fruit they grow. There are many different ways they offer “The Superfruit the South,” so you can enjoy something healthy that still tastes good and is unique, yet familiar. Paulk’s purple and white muscadine juices won the 2015 and 2016 Flavor of Georgia contests. The muscadine jelly, sauce, and preserves they sell are handcrafted in small batches just down the road by their friends at Fourth & Cherry Foods. The vineyard also hosts the Georgia Muscadine Festival every Labor Day Weekend and the South Georgia Wine Festival, the second Saturday in March.

But what we’re really here to spotlight is the wine! Paulk Vineyards began making and bottling their own wines in 2017. Between the muscadine and other fruit wines in the Paulk Vineyards line and their Sweet Tree line of fruit-infused wines, their brand now includes 24 award-winning wines. Not a bad record for only seven years! The names and nostalgia behind the wine labels are as lovely as the wines themselves.

When they began the wine operation, Paulk Vineyards decided to use the names of their wines to tell stories about their family and the farm. Their original family of red

and white muscadine wines were named for their grandparents and great-grandparents. Later, when they started making wines from other fruit grown on the farm, they named the fruit wines for roads where those fruits are grown. As the vineyards expanded their muscadine wine offerings, they first paid tribute to an iconic A-frame cabin and the wonderful memories it held for them. In 2021, Paulk Vineyards introduced Sweet Tree Wine, a line of fruit-infused muscadine wines and sangrias which offered a fresh and exciting twist on their classic wines.

In 2024, a new line of destination wines was launched to further connect the wines made by the Paulks to their family and cherished memories. These are named after places in Georgia near and dear to their hearts. Of special note to us here in south coastal Georgia, one of those destination wines, a semi-sweet sparkling white muscadine, is named Golden Isles. The Paulks have certainly captured our island spirit in the description and tasting notes that accompany this prosecco-like wine:

the coast near Brunswick, the unique natural beauty of The Isles draws you in to relax, play, and explore the sandy beaches, marshes, and marine life like sea turtles. St. Simons and Jekyll Island perfect Southern hosts, offering eclectic shopping, incredible as well as iconic lighthouse, sunset, or driftwood beach photo opportunities. Enjoy a glass of this sparkling white muscadine wine feel the ocean breeze, even if it’s just in your mind!

bubbles in this semi-sweet sparkling white muscadine wine make us think of the waves crashing onto the shores of Jekyll and St. Simons Islands. Not too sweet, with a floral essence and hints of citrus, combined with those effervescent bubbles, make this the perfect wine for celebrating or just to liven up dinner!

Take a ride out to the farm to visit the Paulk Vineyards Tasting Room, where a wine guide will introduce you to their wines in a simple and fun tasting session that is neither overwhelming nor pretentious. For the Paulk family, wine is all about enjoyment and they hope you’ll find a story to celebrate and new memories to create with every sip. To learn more about Paulk Vineyards, shop online, or plan a visit to the farm or the Tasting Room, visit paulkvineyards.com.

WINE. IT'S REALLY Simple— REALLY!

BY CHEF DAVE SNYDER, OWNER, HALYARD RESTAURANT GROUP

Wine—the rendering of a gentle squeeze of grapes dancing in a crystal chalice, a fermented flux alive with aromas, tastes, and complex finishes. Damn, that’s a mouthful. We use so many adjectives and qualifiers to define a simple, delicious, colored juice, enjoyed in a fancy glass or a red Solo cup. But wine does not need to be so complicated or intimidating. Wine exists simply to be enjoyed.

We believe that wine is made special by those you share it with. It is a wonderful vehicle for memories, good times, laughter, and meaningful discussions. We’ve never met anyone who has a great story about a bottle of wine they drank by themselves— each bottle is a joy best shared with family or friends.

What matters when it comes to wine is this: Do you like it? The media tells us that wine needs to be formal, proper, high-end, complicated— and even sexy. But you get to decide if it’s delicious to you. If you like it, you buy it.

What makes sharing a bottle of wine together with friends so much fun is that everyone will have a different opinion about it. For some, the flavor will be just perfect. And for others, it’ll be too sweet or too dry. And everyone’s opinions are correct—with wine, there are no wrong answers.

No singular wine will suit everyone on every occasion—that’s what makes each unique bottle such a great adventure. There are so many wines and so little time to taste them all. A late morning tailgate in Athens in September might call for a Spanish Albariño or Verdejo, or an October afternoon brisket picnic might need an Australian Shiraz. A late-night dinner in the driveway leaning against the warm hood of your car with pizza in hand is asking for a cheap Chianti. Bottom line: there are no rules! It’s all about what sounds like a good choice to you in that moment and the joy you find in your bottle.

So many wonderful professional beverage crews believe in the simplicity and personal choice of wine like we do and are dedicated to helping you find your next favorite region, grape varietal, producer, or bottle. Ask your local package store owner about winemakers who pride themselves on making great “juice” because at the end of the day, these are the people who are simply “farmers”

treating grapes with the utmost love and respect. And if you’re lucky enough to visit a wine region, find producers who don’t have cathedrals that double as tasting rooms. Talk to the winemakers who prefer tastings at a picnic table under the sun in view of their vineyards. These amazing men and women will not give you a dogand-pony show; instead, their stories will be all about their personal experiences, from planting their vines to aging their wines.

Keep creating your own beautiful, fun stories and memories with friends and family—enjoying whatever bottles of reds, whites, oranges, and rosés you love best in kitchens, on porches, on boats, in driveways, and on picnic tables. Chandeliers, tall candles, and tuxedos are fine if the mood strikes you. But for a simple moment of joy, just pull your favorite bottle off the shelf and pour a bit with friends.

Dave Snyder is the owner of the Halyard Restaurant Group. This New England Culinary Institute graduate brought years of experience serving under top chefs when he struck out on his own and opened Halyards in 2000. He expanded next door to launch Tramici for neighborhood Italian cuisine in 2006 and added Latin street fare at La Plancha in 2017 to celebrate his Colombian heritage. The restaurant group includes these popular island eateries, plus Halyards Catering and Hal the Food Truck.

Dave’s love of hospitality, food, and team is seconded by his time chasing fish. If he’s not on site at his restaurants, he’s probably on the water—with a bottle of wine nearby. To learn about the extensive wine offerings and delicious food at his restaurants, visit halyardrestaurantgroup.com.

Tasting Tips

THERE REALLY IS A “RIGHT” GLASS

Different glasses do affect the way you experience your wine, and you should choose one that provides the fullest flavor. A glass with a wider bowl that gives the wine room to aerate and breathe is best for reds. White and rosé wines are best served in a white wine or tulip glass. Tulip and flute glasses are perfect for sparkling wines.

THOSE FIVE S’S

When you see people sniffing and swirling, it might seem pretentious, but when tasting a glass of wine you do want to incorporate the five S’s: see, swirl, smell, sip, and savor. Seeing the wine’s color can provide insight into the type of grape and even the age of the wine. When you swirl the wine in your glass, it allows the aromas to release so you can then smell and sip. Savoring the taste of the wine is the best way to truly appreciate its complex flavors. To look like a true connoisseur and master the wine swirl, hold your wine glass by the stem and swirl with the wrist, not the arm.

SOME IMPORTANT T’S

Tannins are what gives wine a “dry” mouthfeel, and they are more plentiful in red wines than whites. The French term “terroir” refers to the impact that climate, soil, and overall sense of place have on the grapes. When choosing Old World Wines, grown and produced in Europe, terroir is a primary consideration. Temperature is another important factor involved when tasting wine. According to experts, white and sparkling wines are best served cold (43-50°F) to highlight their bright acidity. The fruit-forward flavor profiles of rosés are enhanced when served chilled (between 44-55°F). The complex aromas and layers of flavor in red wines are best appreciated when served at or just below room temperature (between 56-64°F).

Georgia Thing IT'S A

BY DONNA

Golden Isles Olive Oil offers one of the largest selections of wines by the glass on St Simons Island. We are proud to be part of the Georgia landscape and are all about supporting local. Among the many offerings in our wine bar, we feature selections from three Georgia wineries.

Perhaps the most unique is Rabbiteye Blueberry Wine from Bell Farms in Bristol Georgia. Bell Farms was established in Southeast Georgia over 40 years ago. Their 100% blueberry wine is crafted with two pounds of homegrown blueberries per bottle and loaded with antioxidants that benefit your health. They produce four varieties of blueberry wine:

MACPHERSON, GOLDEN ISLES OLIVE OIL

Brightwell, Powderblue, Tifblue Sweet, and Super Sweet. We serve their Tifblue Sweet full-bodied blueberry wine by the glass and use it to create one of our most popular concoctions, the Blueberry Wine Slushy. It tastes like summer!

Other sweet Southern offerings come from Still Pond Winery. Tucked away in South Georgia, just outside of Arlington, Still Pond Winery produces a variety of premium Muscadine wines, including the Notchaway White Muscadine that we carry. Crafted from the Carlos muscadine grape, nurtured by the sun-drenched banks of the Ichauway Notchaway Creek, this traditionally sweet white wine has earned the title of Georgia’s Best Muscadine Wine for three consecutive years. Its delicate floral aroma and lusciously sweet palate, bursting with notes of ripe peach, apricot, and honey, offer a taste of Southern charm and the simple joys of life. Whether enjoyed on a warm coastal evening, paired with a delectable dessert, or shared amongst friends and family, Notchaway White is a celebration of tradition, a tribute to the land, and a timeless classic.

We also serve Still Pond Winery’s Confederate Peach Wine. This captivating blend of sun-ripened peaches and estate-grown muscadine grapes conjures images of warm summer days, the sweet scent of magnolia blossoms, and whispered tales of a bygone era. The luscious, juicy notes of Georgia peaches intertwine with the delicate sweetness of the muscadines, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Each sip is a journey back in time, a taste of Southern hospitality and the enduring spirit of resilience that has shaped our land. Confederate Peach is more than just a wine; it’s a toast to the legends that live on in every corner of Still Pond. At Golden Isles Olive Oil, we serve it by the glass and blend it up as a fruity frozen treat as another flavor of our popular wine slushies.

Let’s step away from the sweet wines of the state and turn to Georgia winemaking at its finest. Chateau Elan is located in Braselton, just north of Atlanta, and they harvest grapes from 3500 acres of fertile vineyards. They craft more than 30 wines blended with grapes from both Georgia and California. From humble beginnings, Chateau Elan Winery has emerged as one of the largest and most awarded wineries on the East Coast. They offer more than 30 wines produced with grapes grown in their Braselton and South Georgia vineyards, as well as grapes hand-picked and transported, whole cluster, in refrigerated trucks from California’s Lake County and Clarksburg regions. Golden Isles Olive Oil

serves up two of their best: Chardonnay American Reserve and Velvet Reserve.

Chateau Elan Chardonnay American Reserve is a beautiful golden chardonnay. At the nose, strong peach jam opens the bouquet while light gardenia flavors and a sweet vanilla background follow. It is intense on the palate with a sustained acidity and clean finish. It’s a perfect complement to one of our cheese and charcuterie boards or one of entrees such as our North Carolina Fresh Water Rainbow Trout or Seared Atlantic Salmon.

Chateau Elan Velvet Reserve is a delightful choice when looking for a smooth yet vibrant ruby red blend. It’s crafted primarily from Zinfandel and Tannat grapes, creating a blend that dances on the palate. With oaky notes and robust tannins, it’s foodfriendly and makes an ideal pairing with our Chocolate Balsamic Short Rib entree or Seared Pork Ribeye.

Stop by Golden Isles Olive Oil at 1609 Frederica Road to check out happy hour or pair offerings from their vast wine collection with a delicious dinner. For a fun weekend, grab brunch on the patio and bring your pooch too—they even have special canine wine for our furry friends! Of course, you can always drop in just to grab a bottle with a pre-made cheese and charcuterie board to enjoy at home. To see their menu and wine selections or place an order online, visit goldenislesoliveoil.com.

WINE AND MORE AT THE Corner Store

One spot you might not typically think of when stopping to grab a bottle of wine is the Parker’s store at the corner of Mallery Street and Ocean Boulevard in the Village on St. Simons Island. But since opening in 2001, the store has become a village staple with a small but solid selection of popular wines and bottles perfect for gifting, as well as gourmet food options and snacks to enjoy as you sip.

As the “curator of the wine collection,” Dana Parker takes her job seriously and enjoys it immensely. From paying attention to what her friends and other folks in the Golden Isles are drinking to doing price comparisons to stocking beautiful bottles that make great gifts, Dana has her thumb on the pulse of our community. She’s quick to point out that she has incredible wine reps

who are very helpful in making recommendations and assisting her in finding what she needs, including Wayne Murphy from Georgia Crown, Mark Donato of Southeast Beverages and Bridget Wilbur from Empire. Some of the staples they make sure stay in stock are offerings from J. Lohr, Frei Brothers, Simi, Meiomi, and the Rombauer Chardonnay that Dana herself loves.

If you’re throwing a party and you need something sparkling, Parker’s has Mirabelle, Korbel 4-packs,

Casey is just one of the friendly faces at Parker’s in the village who will make sure customers leave with a smile.

and LaMarca prosecco in sizes that range from 4-packs to magnum for those early tailgate mimosas! If you fancy a beach picnic, there are the popular Sutter Homes 4-packs and wine by the box. If you need a bottle for gifting to a hostess or to set out for house guests, the JNSQ Rose Cru is simply stunning!

As Dana says, their main objective at Parker’s is to offer a small selection that is still wide enough in variety to have something for every palate and to keep prices reasonable, so you can get what you need conveniently without needed to make a trip to the grocery or package stores. And with the excellent cheese selections from their gourmet pantry options, or the Columbus charcuterie tasting board looks like a wood charcuterie board, you can grab what you need to host a spur-of-the-moment gathering or arrive at a party as the perfect guest. Of course, there are plenty of traditional snack options like cheese straws, olives, nuts, and crackers, but you’ll also find unique offerings like wine-flavored potato chips!

If you’re throwing an impromptu party, Parker’s Gourmet To-Go should be your first stop!

The Parker family has been serving south coastal Georgia for more than 90 years, delivering a premium shopping experience in a safe, friendly and convenient environment at competitive prices. They are committed to the community and believe their customers deserve the best and work hard every day to make that happen. The thought and care they put into their wine selection and gourmet food offerings at the store in the village, shows just why Parker’s is so much more than your average corner store!

The lovely Teena Hicks with an equally lovely bottle of JNSQ Rosé Cru.

BRIAN’S BIG WINE

Adventure

BY BRIAN HENDERSON, C.S.W., ADVANCED SOMMELIER, JP’S WINE & SPIRITS

JP’s Wine & Spirits is known for its incredible selection, best prices, fantastic customer service, and one of the coolest sommeliers in the biz. This month we’re introducing Brian Henderson, who will be offering up wine selections in our newly established “Your Palate” section following this issue. The EIL staff has enjoyed some excellent wine dinners at Georgia Sea Grill with Brian as our guide through the pairings and were impressed by his knowledge and the way he imparts it in a way that’s fun and understandable for everyone. For that reason, we decided the best way for our readers to get to know Brian is by learning his story through his own words. So, without further ado, here’s Brian’s Big Wine Adventure:

While working at The Cloister as server in 1998 I had the opportunity to taste through some single vineyard German Rieslings that changed my life. It was a vertical tasting of ten vintages from Robert Weil from the Kiedricher Gräfenberg Auslese Rieslings. Like many people I tell about this tasting I had no idea what all these crazy words meant. The next day I bought Wine for Dummies. I had to learn more about what I had just experienced. The thing I learned right away was that one can never learn it all. That’s why people who get sucked into the study of wine never get out.

I was working as the Maître’d at Colt and Alison in 2004 when I passed the Advanced Level exam of the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS). I was fortunate enough to pass the exam on my first attempt. Less than 5% of those taking the exam accomplish that.

But what does that even mean? CMS is misunderstood by those outside of the industry. Most people refer to the tiers as “levels” and wonder what “level” sommelier you are. The CMS uses the terms Introductory (1st), Certified (2nd), Advanced (3rd) and Master (4th, final stage). The advanced and master exams consist of a blind tasting to identify 6 wines origins, variety, quality level and vintage; a service exam that is in a fine dining setting and theory exam consisting of an oral test about all things beverage from around the globe. There are approximately 10,000 Certified sommeliers in the world, less than 1,000 Advanced, and fewer than 300 reach Master.

Sommelier Brian Henderson is always happy to introduce you to new wines.

For owner Tad McNair, helping customers with their selections is just part of the excellent customer service they provide at JP’s Wine & Spirits. JP’S WINE &

After passing the Advanced Exam, I took a position as the Director of Wine & Spirits at the Nemacolin Resort and Spa outside of Pittsburgh. There, I oversaw the wine program for more than ten restaurants, including the award-winning, five-star restaurant, Lautrec. During that time, I passed the Certified Specialist of Wine through Society of Wine Educators. I was also named the Director of Education for the Western PA Wine Society. After my time at Nemacolin, I worked briefly consulting in Philadelphia where I would assist in the opening new restaurant wine programs. My next stop was back in western Pennsylvania where I was the Director of Wine for a group of private country clubs throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania with the Avalon Group.

Following that, and a return to St. Simons Island, I took a brief hiatus from the wine business. During that time, I worked at Southern Soul Barbeque, as a kayak guide for Southeast Adventure Outfitters, and played bass in the jazz quartet Tonic Blue. I made a slow return to my wine roots by doing some wine consulting and dinners for Georgia Sea Grill and I am currently the consulting sommelier for the Georgia Sea Grill Collective. Two years ago, I started at JP’s Wine & Spirits as the in-store sommelier under the new ownership of Tad McNair and I’m having a blast doing Friday tastings and introducing customers to our inventory.

I’m currently finishing my studies for the French Wine Scholar examination which I will be sitting for this month. This exam tests knowledge of every wine region of France including wine laws, geology, geography, history, viticulture, viniculture and social significance.

Throughout my career I’ve been fortunate to have studied in most of the great wine regions of France, Germany, Chile, New Zealand and, of course, the United States. My biggest takeaway from the wine world and this big wine adventure is that there is entirely too much snobbery and pretentiousness. Wine is fun, and the day it stops being fun, what’s the point?! The most successful sommeliers are humble, silly, and great educators. As a sommelier, I want to help you choose a wine you can enjoy, whether it comes from a box, a screw-top, or is intended for a fancy saber send-off. The best wines aren’t the ones with high points on some rating scale that sit on a shelf never to be enjoyed, they’re the ones you actually drink and share with your family and friends. Come by JP’s during our tastings to learn a little more and see what pleases your palate or to chat wine anytime.

3304 Glynn Avenue (HWY 17 N) | 912.264.3695 jpswineandspirits.com

Sip & Savor

There are so many opportunities to sip and savor, expand your palate and your wine knowledge in and around the Golden Isles. We encourage everyone to get out and explore the offerings at our local restaurants and wine bars. The selections from their cellars are mind-boggling!

Golden Isles Olive Oil (goldenislesoliveoil.com) hosts complimentary wine tastings, as well as other spirit tastings, on Tuesday evenings so you can sample and see what you like. Keep an eye on their calendar and social media for special events like Sip & Paint and Sip & Stretch evenings where you can enjoy your wine and work your creativity or your body.

Uncle Don’s Local Market & Wine Bar also offers complimentary tastings in the wine bar at the Frederica Road location on occasional Thursday evenings, so make sure you’re following their social media accounts to see when they pop up. If you haven’t been to the wine bar at Uncle Don’s, you should check it out because their smart card operated WineStation machines allow you to enjoy a taste, a 1/2 glass, or a full glass of up to 16 different wines.

Fridays are more fun when you drop by JP’s Wine & Spirits (jpswineandspirits.com) in Brunswick between 2:00-5:00 p.m. for their complimentary tastings with Certified Sommelier Brian Henderson. To see what they’re spotlighting (and to get a good laugh) each week, follow their social media accounts.

The Bubble Bar at Two Friends (tfbubblebar.com) in Redfern Village is a Sommelier-curated boutique wine shop and champagne bar that offers over 300 selections from all over the world. They also offer a wine club and host special education tastings and fun events in their beautiful space, so keep an eye out! It’s a great place to wind down after work with some girlfriends!

Certified Sommelier Brandon Boudreau at Newcastle Wine Merchant (newcastlewine.com) in Brunswick hosts some incredible sit-down guided wine tasting experiences where attendees learn more about various wine regions or types of wine. He also provides expert advice, offers a wine

club, and also curates the wines for the fantastic monthly wine dinners at Oaks on the River Resort in Darien. Be sure to check their calendar at oaksontheriverresort.com to find out when they’ve having their next one so you can enjoy an unforgettable evening in this elegant riverside setting.

Owner/Chef Tanya Sergey is a master at pairing delectable dishes with exceptional wines with the monthly themed wine dinners she hosts at A Moveable Feast (amfrestaurant.com) in Brunswick. These dinners generally feature five or six courses and wines from around the globe to match. Details and menu can be found on the restaurant’s website under the Events tab. On October 26, her Fall Fundraiser Wine Dinner will benefit World Central Kitchen, a charity that provides much-needed meals to food challenged people living in humanitarian crises.

Earlier in the feature you read about the special wine dinners and events you’ll find at Jekyll Island Club Resort (jekyllclub.com) and its family of restaurants. It won’t be long before they turn the holiday lights on there and what a magical experience that could be! When offering his thoughts on wine Dave Snyder didn’t mention the fabulous wine dinners hosted at Halyards (halyardsrestaurant.com) and Tramici (tramicirestaurant.com), but you won’t want to sleep on those when they come around! The fall and holiday seasons are sure to bring some wine-centric offerings at Georgia Sea Grill (georgiaseagrill.com) and The Nest (thenestssi.com) too. It’s always a treat to see—and taste!—the culinary creativity displayed by Executive Chefs Tim Lensch and Sunny Saltzman when it comes to pairing menus! A delicious wine pairing of a different type that we highly recommend is the cabernet and bittersweet chocolate bonbons handmade by the talented chocolatiers at Sugar Marsh Cottage Specialty Confections (sugarmarshcottage.com) in Darien.

Last, but not least, keep an eye on the Elegant Island Living website calendar for wine focused fundraisers Taste of the Vine benefiting Coastal Coalition for Children and the highly anticipated Wine, Women & Shoes luncheon and fashion show supporting Hospice of the Golden Isles.

Check Out

BY PAMELA ANDERSON, WINE CONSULTANT, HARRIS-TEETER

Autumn in the Golden Isles brings shorter days, cooler temperatures, and Georgia Bulldog football. October is a beautiful month for many reasons, but I’d be remiss if I did not mention its holidays. If you polled most of the customers that frequent our Harris Teeter, Georgia-Florida weekend would

undoubtedly be considered by many to be the #1 holiday, with Halloween coming in at a close second, and these are just the first two of the fall season!

As we transition into the end of the year, we seek out more hearty dishes like roasted meats, beef stews, pumpkin soups, and oyster roasts. Consequently, the wine we drink also transitions. We say goodbye to lighter and more refreshing wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Rose and welcome richer, more full-bodied wines like Cabernet, Red Blend, Syrah, and Pinot Noir.

The real magic is wine and food pairings—where the combination makes both the food and wine taste better. One of these amazing pairings shared by one of our great customers is Pinot Noir and pesto. Game changer! Pinot Noir complements autumn dishes beautifully. Its approachable flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates makes it a perfect choice. Another fall favorite, Cabernet, is high in tannins which makes it an ideal pairing with steak or lamb chops because of its ability to refresh your palate after each bite. Syrah is excellent with spicy dishes, certainly a signature of the South. Therefore, if you’re looking for the perfect bottle of wine at your bulldog celebratory BBQ, Syrah would be a great choice.

We also have the perfect wine for Halloween. Universal Monster and 19 Crimes partnered up to release two limited time bottles that we made sure to get in stock. Monster lovers will want to pick up the Frankenstein Cabernet Sauvignon and the Bride of Frankenstein Red Blend, in glow-in-the dark bottles that come to life when you scan the QR code on the back with your phone or visit experience.19crimes.com.

The language of wine is universally understood and a wonderful way for people to connect. When assisting customers, I not only get to help them leave with a bottle or two, but I also get to hear stories about celebrations ranging from graduations to births to weddings. We both leave the wine section having learned something new. Wine is a lifetime of learning, and I learn something new every day.

So, before you head to the checkout at Harris Teeter, stop by the wine department. I’m happy to help you find a bottle to compliment any meal, celebrate any holiday or season, and further your knowledge of the world of wine.

Nothing but Love here! Join Davis and Robin Love at their beautiful home for the 2024 Blue

Jean Ball benefiting the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia.

Back to Our Boots Blue Jeans & All

That’s how we’ll be raising money for the animals this fall!

The Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia is thrilled to announce the return of the original Blue Jean Ball fundraiser for homeless animals. This unique and fun event will be held at Davis and Robin Love's stunning home on St. Simons Island on November 8. The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. and will last until 10:00 p.m. Individual tickets are $175, and sponsorships are also available.

Back by popular demand are delectable culinary delights offered by Halyards, as well as live and silent auctions. In addition to

the auctions that have been so popular in the past, there are unique new opportunities to benefit the animals and the auction winners. Here is a peek at what is being so generously donated:

One of the live auction items up for bid will be a 5-night stay in a recently built, beautifully appointed Spanish Peaks Mountain Club home. This breathtaking chalet is in Big Sky, Montana. Skiing, golfing, hiking, biking, fishing, and more are easily accessible. The winning bidder will also have access to the Spanish Peaks Mountain Club's amenities. Don't miss out on this amazing package for that much deserved getaway.

PHOTOS BY TIM RUDE, FIERCE CREATIVE

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawkened."

Anatole France

One of the silent auctions will include a vintage, handmade children's ensemble with authentic, intricate detailing by Martha Demere. Martha is a Humane Society Board member and graduate of The Royal School of Needlework, with distinction. She is also a published designer of children’s heirloom clothing. The material will include French Maline and Swiss laces and will be created in a size 2, 3 or 4. It will be ready in time for Easter 2025. Just imagine how perfect this item will be for a family or individual portrait! (The actual ensemble may differ slightly from the picture due to yardage). We can't wait to see who the lucky winner is!

This fundraiser, developed to help fund the care of homeless animals, showcases the Southern tradition of merging casual attire, hard work, and hard play. Unfortunately, there are many instances where special care is needed for the animals that

come through the doors of HSSCG. Prosecco, one of their recent intakes was a victim of a hoarding case. Coming from horrific living conditions, unsocialized and pregnant, this little girl was sent to foster after her medical intake exam. She was in desperate need of specialized long-term care. After medication, lots of TLC, and major steps in socializing, Prosecco is now the proud mother of 7 puppies, and all are doing well.

Sadly, there are many more animals like Prosecco who need your help so raising funds through events like the Blue Jean Ball and soliciting donations is necessary. How can you help their mission? Foster, volunteer, donate! Every little bit helps! Come to the Blue Jean Ball to enjoy the auctions, the games (like the popular Heads or Tails), the food, and a fun time with friends. But most of all, come out for the animals!

To purchase tickets or a sponsorship, visit hsscg.org/blue-jean-ball

WHAT BEGAN AS A SIMPLE FAMILY PROJECT FOR THE LLANOS HAS BLOSSOMED INTO A VIBRANT EVENT THAT BRINGS THE GOLDEN ISLES COMMUNITY TOGETHER IN THE MOST INSPIRING WAY.

The journey started when sisters Victoria and Violeta Llano set up a lemonade stand in St. Simons Island’s Pier Village. Their parents, Alberto and Lina, noticed that this humble stand wasn’t just about selling lemonade—it was about something much bigger. The girls were honing essential skills, like sales, teamwork, public speaking, and money management, that will serve them throughout life.

As entrepreneurs themselves—Alberto Llano, co-owner of Del Sur Restaurant and Del Sur Café, and Lina Bareno, founder of Mark of the Buffalo—they had a lightbulb moment. "Wouldn't it be great if all the kids in our community had an opportunity to practice their entrepreneurial skills?" The Llanos reached out to their friends and community leaders, and with their generous support, the Golden Isles Children's Business Fair was born.

“For the first fair, we expected around ten participants,” Lina shared. To their amazement, over 30 young entrepreneurs signed up, showcasing talents that far exceeded expectations. From handmade crafts and delicious treats to innovative products and creative services, the passion, drive, and creativity shown by the children amazed attendees. The inaugural event was a huge success, not only because of the turnout, but also due to the enthusiasm and hard work displayed by these bright young minds.

Building on this success, the second fair saw even more growth. Held in Brunswick, the fair featured over 65 young entrepreneurs and welcomed more than 600 attendees. Young business owners left the event with

money, prizes, new friendships, boost of confidence, and memories they’ll cherish forever. The best part was seeing parents, families, and mentors come together to support the children’s ventures and ideas.

This month’s 3rd Annual Golden Isles Children's Business Fair promises to be the most exciting yet. There will be a special performance by Kaylee Michelle, a singer, author, and entrepreneur who once participated in the fair herself. Live music by the Golden Isles Strummers will add to the festive and uplifting atmosphere. The Book Space, a mobile library designed to inspire a love of reading and continuous learning for both children and adults, will be on site. Food trucks serving tasty treats will ensure everyone stays fueled as they explore the incredible creations of the young entrepreneurs. There will be something for everyone to enjoy.

The Golden Isles Children's Business Fair wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of its presenting sponsors, Marshland Credit Union, and the Golden Isles Development Authority. Their commitment to fostering young talent and backing community-driven initiatives highlights the lasting impact this event has on our region.

Head over to Mary Ross Waterfront Park in downtown Brunswick between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, for a day of inspiration, creativity, and community. Come support our young entrepreneurs and witness the magic that happens when a community comes together to nurture its future leaders.

OCTOBER 13 TH 11AM - 4PM

Photos by Lindy Rebro

Lively Color, Low Maintenance

BY MISTY JOHNS, COASTAL GREENERY, INC.

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES ARE A MULTI-RESOURCEFUL PLANT THAT CAN BE USED IN NUMEROUS WAYS WITHIN A LANDSCAPE.

Many ornamental grasses in our area are warm season growers and bloom in late summer and early fall. This is the perfect time of year to witness the bright colors of their seedheads. Colors of red, gold, orange, purple, and blue ornamental grass seedheads are striking against the imminent dormancy of most landscapes. Ornamental grasses have become more popular as landscaping returns to a more natural look. These grasses are used in a variety of ways such as adding texture and color to plant beds and used for those “troubled” areas in your landscape.

If you haven’t taken a good look at ornamental grasses, now is the time to do so. You will notice that they come in many different textures which will add that perfect “something” to your landscape. You may notice the fluffiness of Maiden Grass, Pampas Grass and Pink Muhly

Grass as their plumes flow back and forth with the breeze. Blue Fescue and Liriope have a spikey texture and are used as a ground cover and edging. Look for the Bottlebrush Grass and Purple Fountain Grass with their bottlebrush-like flowers curving up over other plant material. The variety of textures among ornamental grasses are endless and effective at adding interest to any planting bed.

Ornamental grass seedheads add such vibrant colors to planting beds during the fall and the flowers that follow can be just as outstanding. Imagine your planting bed full of Pink Muhly grass adding a beautiful soft pink color to your landscape. Other ornamental grasses boasting

colorful foliage include Little Bluestem, with a lavender-blue stem, Japanese Bottlebrush with its feathery, dark pink, brush-like blooms, Variegated Liriope which will push out grapelike clusters of purple flowers, and Fire Dragon Maiden Grass which changes its green leaves into edgy red and oranges colors. Imagine the fun and excitement you could have using these ornamental grasses in a landscape!

There are not many landscapes that do not have at least one area that can be troublesome. Whether an area holds too much water or holds not enough water, the area has no irrigation or is a full sun area that burns most all the plant material you have tried, you should be able to find an ornamental grass that will thrive.

WET AREAS Muhly grass and Maiden Grass SALT SPRAY AREAS Tufted Hair and Pampas grass DRY AREAS Switchgrass and Blue Oat grass FULL SUN AREAS Pink Muhly and Flame Grass FOR SCREENING Hardy Clumping Bamboo and Zebra Grass

Ornamental grasses add different textures and heights to your landscape, add color, soften areas, add drama, movement, and sound to landscapes. Ornamental grasses do not require a lot of maintenance, do not require pesticides, are effective in soil erosion, and do not pollute waterways. These grasses are very resourceful and provide such an interest to your landscape, we feel once you have tried ornamental grasses, you will never want your property to be without them. Having such low maintenance grasses in your landscape means one very important thing this time of year –you have more time to watch SEC football!! GOOOOOOO DAWGS!!!

PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPING SERVICES TAILORED TO YOUR LONG-TERM PROPERTY NEEDS. 1242 Old Jesup Road • Brunswick, Georgia 31520 912.261.8171 • coastalgreenery.com E Q D

Once a Canary Always a Canary

BY SANDRA DELANEY

WHEN LOOKING BACK AT THE PAST 40 YEARS OF THE YELLOW CANARY, I THINK I NEED TO START AT THE VERY BEGINNING.

As a child, I always loved playing with my Barbies and making most of their clothes. (In fact, I may still have those Barbies under lock and key!) My mom and dad are a huge factor in who I am today and have always supported me. They actually gave me my first toy cash register so I could play “Shop.” I had a vision early on about my future.

I graduated from the University of Georgia in 1984 with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and moved to St Simons Island after graduation. I was with the store from the ground floor up when The Yellow Canary opened in 1984. In 2006, I bought the business and have loved every minute of it—except maybe the paperwork! I adore every aspect of

retail, especially my work family and all of my customers that come from all over.

I have always been community driven and I’m so proud of the lifelong friendships-turnedfamily that have been made along the way. This includes “The Canaries” who have made up our work family through these four decades, like the sweet seamstress Ana Correia who worked in our shop for many years. There are so many friends and family members who have supported the store, including some Canaries who started in back in the 80s and still fill in a shift from time to time. It has been so wonderful to share the friendship and love over these past 40 years!

Your Style

At The Yellow Canary, we feel strongly about supporting the community and our local charities. For instance, we always love to do the fashion show for CASA of Glynn. Lillian Clarke was one of our favorites. Some others that we have supported through the years by participating in fashion shows or donating items or gift certificates for auction include: the Wine, Women & Shoes fashion show that benefits Hospice of the Golden Isles, the Pirates of the Spanish Main fashion show, American Cancer Society, Memory Matters, Frederica Academy’s Derby Day, St. Simons Christian School, and numerous others. We believe wholeheartedly in giving back to the community because they support us every day.

Of course, I have to give the biggest thank you of all to my family for being my best cheerleaders. My husband Larry (a realtor with DeLoach Sotheby’s), our daughter Wesley, and sons Matt, Andrew and Bennett have each played a large role in helping to make The Canary a success. From moving racks to changing light bulbs, they’ve done it all. Wesley works anytime she can fit it in her schedule. She started helping with the shop and attending apparel markets when she was 12 years old! My sister Landa in Williamsburg, Virginia even shows her support by sending pictures of all our goodies to her friends there and showing off all her favorites, so they buy them too!

We’ll be holding a celebration on Tuesday, October 22 at the store to thank all of the friends of The Yellow Canary for their wonderful support throughout the years. Please join us! The Canaries and I thank you all for being a part of our story!

Sip Without Stains

WHILE WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO UNCORK THE CABERNET AND POLISH OFF THE PINOT, WE DO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT DRINKING RED WINE CAN, IN FACT, STAIN YOUR TEETH.

According to the American Dental Association, red wine has a few properties that can result in extrinsic stains on your teeth. First, there is a high concentration of the naturally occurring pigments (anthocyanins) that give the grapes their purple color. Second, wine is acidic, which makes your tooth enamel more porous, allowing more staining pigments to be absorbed. Finally, tannins in the wine help bind the colored pigments to your teeth. The best way to proactively prevent staining from occurring is to maintain healthy tooth enamel so that it’s more difficult for wine and other staining substances, like coffee and tea, to stick to your teeth.

You can help avoid red wine teeth staining by brushing your teeth and flossing regularly.

This removes the plaque that builds up on your teeth throughout the day. Plaque causes wine to stick to your teeth, exposing them to the staining pigments for longer time, and leading to deeper stains. A good rule of thumb is to brush your teeth a half-hour before drinking red wine to remove plaque. After drinking, you’ll want to wait at least another 30 minutes before brushing again so not to expose teeth to the acidic quality of toothpaste immediately following contact with acidic wine. That could have the harmful effect of removing more enamel.

Drinking water between glasses of wine is also helpful. The water helps flush out some of the wine’s acidity. Water helps with saliva production, which further cleanses the mouth of wine. Eating food while sipping your vino

is another way to naturally produce the saliva which will break down the wine in your mouth. Constant saliva production means less time for your teeth to be exposed to high concentrations of staining wine pigments. So, reach for that cheese and charcuterie board!

Other handy tricks for removing short term red wine stains from teeth include the use of wine wipes (available at most wine shops), brushing with baking soda (or toothpaste that contains baking soda), and using hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse before you brush. Both baking soda and hydrogen peroxide have natural whitening properties, but overuse can damage your tooth enamel, so it’s recommended that you do not use methods involving those substances on a daily basis. Of course, the best way to remove stains and make sure your tooth enamel stays healthy is with regular dentist visits and cleanings.

Bottom line: don’t be afraid to sip your favorite reds, just make sure to take a little extra care to protect and maintain that bright smile!

In Vino Divitiae

THIS TWIST ON THE COMMON LATIN PHRASE IN VINO VERITAS MEANS IN WINE THERE IS WEALTH.

If you’re looking to add to your investment portfolio, fine wine can be an attractive option as an alternative asset. The wine market offers a promising future with more people interested in buying and drinking wine. Additionally, over the past fifteen years, wine investing has often beaten global equities and has consistently outperformed the S&P 500 for the past 30 years.

Just as with choosing stocks to diversify a portfolio, diversification is key when investing in wine. When selecting wines for investment, it’s also important to target investment-grade wines rather than more common and less expensive bottles.

Wine can be a complex asset so investing requires a solid base of knowledge, diligence, and a commitment to staying informed.

Resources like Wine Spectator and The New Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia are valuable references.

There are many factors to consider when evaluating bottles of wine to purchase as an investment, such as:

REPUTATION AND TRACK RECORD of the producer, vineyards, and varietals

VINTAGE – impact of the harvest year and its weather on wine quality

AGING POTENTIAL, influenced by grape type, tannins, and acid levels

SCARCITY AND PRICE HISTORY – limited production can drive up prices

MARKET TRENDS AND PRICING at auctions

RECOMMENDATIONS AND RATINGS by wine critics

Wine investment can be made by purchasing via the primary market, where wine is initially sold from producers to consumers through

wholesale distributors or the secondary market which involves the sale of wine through auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s, as well as online auction houses like Crurated and Winebid, wine exchanges, and wine brokers. Rather than buying wine bottles, you can also invest in the wine industry itself by purchasing stocks of companies that are wine merchants or producers.

While it’s fun to learn more about appellation and aging potential to purchase by the bottle, there are also ways to invest that don’t require you to be a wine expert and don’t require you to worry about where to store your collection. There are several dedicated platforms, like Vinovest, that cater to investors interested in wine. This combines the ability to invest in bottles of wine and build a diversified portfolio with the benefit of having wine experts handling most of the curation, so you don’t have to do the research and legwork. The bottom line is that wine can be a lucrative alternative investment and a welcome addition to your portfolio even without you owning your own cellar.

Bulldawgs, Brown Liquor & Books

If you’re a Georgia Bulldog fan who’s on social media, it’s likely you are familiar with Charlie and his pre-game prayers. They might be the highlight of Facebook for the Bulldawg Nation, but if you’ve missed them up to this point, you’re in luck because they’ve been assembled in a book. Charlie’s first foray

into the publishing world has resulted in Pregame Prayers & Tailgate Tales: A Damn Good Bulldawg’s Road to Eternal Glory.

A lifelong Georgia fan raised on his family farm in Cochran, Georgia, Charlie grew up reading Atlanta Journal-Constitution sports columnist

and humorist Lewis Grizzard—and you can tell. Even Dedra Grizzard, wife of the late Lewis Grizzard says in the book’s foreword, “Charlie’s Pregame Prayers remind me of how Lewis used to write, with his witty and humorous observations on Southern culture, sports and everyday life. I hear Lewis in Charlie’s words.”

GLORY, GLORY, AND OH, LORDY! CHARLIE ENGLISH IS ON A BOOK TOUR! WATCH OUT WORLD!

Charlie’s pregame devotionals capture the passion and pageantry of Game Day in the South through a witty and irreverent lens that echoes Grizzard’s wry observations on sports, food, and culture in the South. In the book, this UGA alumnus who waited more than 40 years for a college football national title recounts the team’s 2021-2022 championship seasons with great humor and pride in his alma mater. You’ll enjoy reading Charlie’s unique perspective on the cherished tradition of fall Saturdays accompanied by a collection of delicious recipes and a consistent dose of bourbon (aka brown licker).

"Charlie's hard-hitting coverage of our weekly rivals, tailgate reviews and unfortunate fashion trends is the first thing the Bulldog Nation reads on Saturday mornings in the fall. He's combined some good-natured ribbing, a few tall tales, and a dash of inappropriateness to create the perfect recipe for entertaining all fans with this collection." - Lee Zell, President of the UGA Alumni Association and TNT executive

Charlie took some time to talk to us before his book launch party and the beginning of his “BBQ, Beer & Brown Licker Book Tour,” and called this exciting new chapter in his life “daunting,” but he eagerly jumped in with both feet! The book is getting a fabulous response, with 800 copies selling in 8 days! These pregame prayers began as a simple and most likely spirit-induced request “Charlie, say a prayer for the team.” from one of the frat

brothers with whom he was gathered—before the 2013 homecoming game. Taking those prayers to social media brought a whole new level of exposure—with a Facebook post garnering over 197,000 impressions and being shared more than 800 times. Now, Charlie has left behind the medical sales field in which he spent more than 25 years to follow the advice of his ardent followers and friends to put his prayers into a book. In fact, he’s even working on the next one, since UGA football didn’t stop after those two Nattys.

Just because he’s on the book trail and a published writer now, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t take the pre-game prayers he posts on Facebook any less seriously. He has two proofreaders reviewing them and gets up at 5:00 a.m. to make sure they’re ready to go. But it’s not all hard work either! Charlie is enjoying his travels and his book launch celebration was also accompanied by ASW Distillery’s Hunker Spirits-Classic City Collective release of Hunker Bourbon, Creature Comfort’s release of Sip ‘Em Seltzer, and a special English toffee bourbon edible cookie dough concoction from Athen’s own Alumni Cookie Dough. The best news is that he’s heading our way with signings in and around the Golden Isles around Georgia-Florida Week.

Currently, the scheduled dates for Charlie’s local book signings are as follows:

OCTOBER 29

Waterfront Wine & Gourmet, Darien –10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 30

SSI Lifestyle – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Two Friends 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Village Inn & Pub – 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

OCTOBER 31

Stripling’s General Store, Brunswick 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

NOVEMBER 1

SSI Lifestyle 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Two Friends 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Keep an eye on the Elegant Island Living social media accounts or Charlie’s website at charlieenglish.com for updates. You can also order your own signed copy of the book or find a local retailer who carries it on his site. Charlie donates a percentage of every book sale to the Let All The Big Dawgs Eat Food Scholarship Initiative nd the Classic City Collective. Let’s make sure to give this good Dawg a warm welcome when he comes to town!

Coq Au Vin

INGREDIENTS:

1 (3-4 lb.) chicken, divided into 8 pieces Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. avocado or safflower oil

4 oz. bacon, diced

1/2 lb. carrots, cut diagonally in 1” pieces

1 yellow onion, sliced

1 tsp. chopped garlic

1/4 c. Cognac

1/2 bottle dry red wine (Burgundy or pinot noir)

1 c. chicken stock or bone broth

10 fresh thyme sprigs

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature, divided

1 1/2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

1/2 lb. frozen pearl onions

1/2 lb. cremini mushrooms, sliced thick

Your Palate

Cooking with Wine

BECAUSE YOU CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH WINE, WE’RE SHARING RECIPES FOR SOME CLASSIC DISHES MADE WITH WINE.

These traditional French and Italian dishes use a variety of wines. And always remember the sage culinary advice: "Only cook with wine you'd drink." While there are wines sold as “cooking wine,” it’s better to buy a bottle of wine you enjoy and pour yourself a glass to sip while you stir!

PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 250°F. Place chicken on paper towels and pat dry. Liberally sprinkle each side of chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large Dutch oven. Add bacon and cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove bacon from pan and set aside. When bacon is removed, place chicken pieces in Dutch oven in a single layer batches and cook to brown (about 5 minutes), turning to brown evenly. Remove pieces of chicken to plate with bacon and continue to brown all pieces of chicken until done. Set aside. Add carrots, onions, 2 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. pepper to pan and cook over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are lightly browned. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add Cognac, bacon, chicken, and all juices from plate into the pot. Add wine, chicken stock, and thyme. Bring to a simmer. Cover pot with lid and place in oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink. Remove from oven and place on stove top. Mash together 1 Tbsp. butter and flour and stir into stew. Add frozen onions. In medium sauté pan, add remaining 1 Tbsp. butter and cook mushrooms over medium-low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, until browned. Add to stew. Bring stew to a simmer and cook an additional 10 minutes. Season to taste and serve hot with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or other side.

Traditional Osso Buco

INGREDIENTS:

4 cross-cut veal shanks *with marrow in the bone, 1 to 1½” thick

1 medium onion, finely chopped 1/2 stick unsalted butter

1/3 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 c. dry white wine

2 c. beef broth

1 Tbsp. tomato paste

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil pinch salt ground black pepper

FOR GREMOLATA:

bunch of fresh parsley zest from 1/2 lemon

1 clove garlic curls of lemon peel to garnish

PREPARATION:

Coat veal shanks with flour on each side and set aside. In a large pan, add butter, oil, and onion, and cook over low heat for 3 min. until translucent. Add flour-coated veal shanks to pan and cook over medium heat for 5 min. on each side. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add white wine and cook until it evaporates. Heat beef broth separately. Reduce heat under pan to low with veal shanks and cover the shanks with heated beef broth. Add tomato paste, stir well, and cook covered with a lid over low heat for about 2 hours. Gently turn veal shanks approx. every 30 minutes to make sure they don't stick to the pan. Add additional broth during cooking, if necessary, but sauce should be thick and creamy. For Gremolata: chop parsley and garlic. Mix with lemon zest until thoroughly combined. Add Gremolata a few minutes before the end of cooking, garnish with lemon peel and serve hot.

Creamy Chicken Marsala

INGREDIENTS:

1½ lbs. (2-3) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tsp. ground black pepper

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

2 tsp. salt, divided

1/2 c. all-purpose flour

4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided

8 oz. cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced thin

1 shallot, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, sliced

1 Tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped

3/4 c. dry Marsala wine

1 1/4 c. low-sodium chicken broth

3/4 c. heavy cream fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish

PREPARATION:

Pat chicken breasts dry and remove tenderloin. Butterfly each breast and separate butterflied halves to create 4-6 thin pieces; season each side with pepper, Italian seasoning, and 1½ tsp. salt. Pour flour into a shallow dish. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, coating both sides, and tapping off any excess. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp. oil, then melt 1 Tbsp. butter. Add half of chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 2 to 3 min. per side. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with 1 Tbsp. oil and remaining chicken until all chicken is cooked. In same skillet over medium heat, heat 1 Tbsp. oil. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 min. Add shallot and remaining 1 Tbsp. oil and 1/2 tsp. salt and cook until translucent, stirring frequently, about 2 min. Add garlic and thyme and cook, stirring, about 1 min. or until fragrant. Add wine and cook, stirring occasionally, scraping browned bits from bottom of pan, until reduced by half, 4-5 min. Add broth and cream and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce starts to thicken, about 15 minutes. Stir in remaining butter until melted. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over chicken until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with parsley. Serve over or with angel hair pasta.

BOOK SIGNING & PAINTING DEMO WITH ROBERT MEREDITH

On October 10, ArtTrends Gallery will host a book signing from 4:00-5:00 p.m. and painting demonstration at 5:00 p.m. for artist Robert Meredith, celebrating the publication of his new book, The Art of Oil Painting. In his book, Meredith describes in clear and non-technical language the materials and techniques used by artists since the invention of oil painting, and how they can be used by today’s artists to simplify their methods and paint better pictures. Meredith’s subjects range from portraits to landscapes to still lifes, but his specialty is trompe l’oeil, or “fool the eye” realism. His realistic representations can be found in Georgia mansions, Manhattan offices, and homes across the country. His cover painting “Studio Mirror” was the 2022 winner of the prestigious Metro Media Competition at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art. For more information, contact ArtTrends Gallery, 3305 Frederica Road. 912.268.4761. artists@arttrends.gallery

ELITE ONCE AGAIN

Hospice of the Golden Isles recently received the prestigious 2024 Hospice CAHPS Honors Elite Award from HEALTHCAREfirst. This accolade is a testament to Hospice of the Golden Isles’ unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care and support to patients and their families. “I was overjoyed to learn Hospice of the Golden Isles was awarded Hospice Honors Elite status again for 2024,” said Paula Di Landro, Executive Director at Hospice of the Golden Isles. “It is a true testament to the quality of care we provide, and I couldn’t be prouder of our team. I feel so honored to be part of this wonderful organization.” The Hospice CAHPS Honors Elite Award recognizes hospices that excel in patient satisfaction and quality care. Hospice of the Golden Isles exceeded the national average score in the Hospice Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) survey, excelling in the ‘Willingness to Recommend’ category. This recognition underscores Hospice of the Golden Isles’ dedication to maintaining high standards of excellence across 23 other quality measures compared to national benchmarks.

In addition to offering expert hospice and palliative care services, Hospice of the Golden Isles is committed to ensuring equitable access to care for all. This includes comprehensive grief and bereavement support counseling, veteran care, and advanced care planning. Supported by a dedicated staff and volunteers, the organization offers pet therapy, spiritual care, and robust fundraising efforts. Hospice of the Golden Isles believes everyone deserves high-quality care, and they work tirelessly to make that a reality. For more information about Hospice of the Golden Isles and its services, visit hospice.me.

MONKEYS ON THE MOVE

Monkey Rents bicycle rentals has a new location in the Pier Village, and is now offering electric bike rentals. Monkey Rents is a partner company with Monkeywrench Bicycles, St. Simons, a locally owned, full-service bike shop for over 20 years. Monkey Rents features high quality 7 speed Electra Townies, as well as other bicycle options. New this fall, Monkey Rents now offers electric Townie GO! Bicycles. The easy-to-ride electric Townie has natural feeling, pedal assisted boost to help you ride easier and longer. The Pier Village Market location offers a convenient walk-to option for visitors staying near the village. They also have you covered with rentals at Monkeywrench Bicycles and delivery options. Cottage discounts are available for longer rentals. Stop by and see them for your bike rental needs at Pier Market Village, 215 Mallery Street, or at Monkeywrench Bicycles, on the bike path at 1708 Frederica Rd or call 912.567.6811. monkeyrents.com

SHAPING A BETTER TOMORROW TOGETHER

The 2024 “Fete for Haiti” dinner benefiting Helping Hugs for Haiti will take place on October 26 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. in the St. William Parish Hall on St. Simons Island. The sit-down dinner catered by Sea Island chefs, live, silent, and online auctions, promote funding for the upcoming year’s agroforestry program, clean water, infrastructure and education in Cotes-deFer. The guest speaker for the evening will be Timote Georges, Co-founder, Smallholder Farmers Alliance Executive Director of the Helping Hugs for Haiti Agroforestry Tree Currency Project. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online at helpinghugs.org.

GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The Live Oaks Garden Club is hosting its 25th annual Poinsettia Sale this month. The club offers beautiful, lush, and longlasting red, white, pink and jingle bells plants in 8-inch foil pots for $20. The sale takes place Friday, October 4 through Friday, November 15. Plants can be picked up on Friday, December 6 between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at Community Church, 2700 Frederica Rd, St. Simons Island. Place orders at liveoaksgardenclubinc.com.

GOLDEN ISLES FILM FESTIVAL AT A GLANCE

Last month we gave you some info about the Golden Isles Film Festival to whet your appetite. Now we’re sharing quick rundown of the festival schedule so you know what’s happening where and when. Get your passes today to join the fun and celebrate the magic of film! For more details, visit GoldenIslesFilmFestival.org.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10

5:00-6:30 p.m. - Opening Night Happy Hour at Newcastle Wine Merchant

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11

10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Headquarters opens at The Ritz Theatre and Fork & Screen food trucks will be on Grant Street at Machen and Jekyll Squares.

11:30 a.m. – 12:40 p.m. Shorts 1 at The Ritz Theatre

1:15 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Feature 1 at SoGlo Gallery/ Brunswick Actors Theatre

2:15 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. Feature 2 at The Ritz Theatre

4:30-6:30 p.m. Friends of Film Happy Hour at Little Zooks

7:00-9:00 p.m. Tales from the Tides: Horror Shorts at Old City Hall

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12

10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Headquarters opens at The Ritz Theatre and Fork & Screen food trucks will be on Grant Street at Machen and Jekyll Squares along with Crafts Along Newcastle vendors

11:30 a.m. – 12:40 p.m. Shorts 2 at SoGlo Galllery/ Brunswick Actors Theatre

1:15-3:00 p.m. Feature 3 at The Ritz Theatre

3:30-4:30 p.m. – State of the Film Industry at The Ritz Theatre

5:30-6:30 p.m. – Seaside Spotlight at Old City Hall

6:30-8:00 p.m. – Gala and Awards Ceremony at Old City Hall

9:00 p.m. to close – Cast and Crew Afterparty on the rooftop at 1509 Brunswick

DON’T DREAM IT, BE IT

The Encore Company is proud to present its inaugural production, The Rocky Horror Show Experience LIVE! Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. nightly October 29-31 at The Ritz Theatre. This live interactive experience will feature talented actors from across the Southeast and is the first of its kind in the Golden Isles. The Encore Company is dedicated to bringing innovative live theatre to the Golden Isles and committed to creating educational opportunities for the next generation of theatre lovers. Encore Kids classes consist of students in 1st-12th grade with two classes in Brunswick and one on St. Simons Island weekly. Encore Kids provides students with performance opportunities and a chance to develop their skills in the musical theatre field. For more information or to purchase tickets to The Rocky Horror Show, visit theencoreco.com.

WALK FOR ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS

The Golden Isles Alzheimer’s Walk brings together businesses and residents from Glynn County and surrounding areas to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s and dementia research and local support services. This family-friendly event will take place in Pier Village on St. Simons Island October 26. Following registration at 9:00 a.m., attendees will honor and remember their loved ones in Neptune Park during the Opening Ceremony at 9:45 a.m. before participating in either a 1-mile or 2-mile walk. Proceeds benefit research efforts through the Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Emory University (alzheimers.emory.edu) and support services provided by Memory Matters Glynn (memorymattersglynn.com), a local independent 501(c) (3) non-profit organization offering education, social activities for persons with memory impairment, individual consultations, memory screening and caregiver support groups in Glynn County. To register, visit gaalz.org.

FOOD, FAMILY & FUN

A coastal favorite, the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival combines the classic Southern dish with family-friendly entertainment, artists market, live music, food, and more. The island comes alive during this fun-filled festival, so mark your calendars for this award-winning event held in the Historic District of Jekyll Island, Georgia. Friday, October 25, 4:00-9:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 26, 10:00 a.m.9:00 p.m. Entertainment includes fireworks around 7:15 p.m. Friday evening, a concert by The Tams that evening and a performance by Landslide, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band on Saturday night. For more details and full live music schedule, please visit jekyllisland.com.

AUTUMN ART SHOW

Enjoy a Golden Isles Fall Festival of color at the Georgia Coastal Artists Guild’s Fall Show & Sale on Saturday-Sunday, October 19-20. Meet more than 20 Georgia Coastal artists who will gather in Room 108 of the St. Simons Casino building (behind the library), to show and sell their most recent works. The show will be open to the public from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. More than 400 original paintings, as well as innumerable prints and greeting cards, will be available to view and purchase.

“You design it, we’ll make it!”

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Draperies, Cornices & Valances • Roman Shades & Blinds

Custom Bedding & Non-Slip Bed Skirts

Pillows of all shapes & sizes • Custom Drapery Hardware

Motorization of Drapery, Shades & Blinds

CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY

Re-Cover Furniture • Slipcovers

Custom Built Furniture & Headboards

plenty of great raffle prizes kept things lively at the fundraiser for Operation Bed Spread. The non-profit organization has delivered more than 2,000 beds to children in need since it began in 2012 and there’s still much need to be met. To see how you can help, visit operationbed.org. 1.

BROGEN’S SOUTH WAS THE PLACE TO BE FOR THE ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL BEDLAM EVENT. Live music by the Tide Kings, delicious food, drinks, and

Holly Baldwin, Joey Baldwin. 2. Becca McWaters, Staci Bennett, Anna Hart. 3. Beth Lowery, Deb Neal. 4. Kim Beckum, Nicole Shingler. 5. Mike and Donna Nix, Bonnie Thompson, Michael Dills, Kristi Thompson. 6. Sonja and Jim Bullard, Jamie and Wesley Collier. 7. Sophia Sistrunk, Patti Sistrunk. 8. Melissa Lacasse, Bonnie Turner. 9. Susan Bagwell, Jody McCollum. 10. Tripp and Deborah Frederick, Tom Bensink. 11. Amy Baldwin, Kristin Bankston. 12. David and Karen Bray. 13. John and Ann Marie Dalis. 14. The Tide Kings.

OGLETHORPE POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RECENTLY HELD ITS INAUGURAL ROCK THE MARSH FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT THE SCHOOL’S MARSH LAB HANDS-ON LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENTS. The rain held off long enough for attendees to enjoy music by The Tide Kings and food from Hootenanny’s BBQ. The view of our marvelous marshes from Village Creek Landing was the perfect setting!

ALTHOUGH RAIN PUT A DAMPER ON THE SOUTHERN SESSION CONCERT IN NEPTUNE PARK TO BENEFIT THE FARM AT OATLAND NORTH, MANY PEOPLE STUCK AROUND TO DANCE IN THE RAIN. Tony Adams emceed the event, while music was performed by Peyton Chambless, SaltWater Gypseas, and Braedon Harris with his full band. If you’d like to find out where and when you can catch these talented musician performing around the Golden Isles, check the I’m With the Band listings on the EIL website regularly.

KEEP GOLDEN ISLES BEAUTIFUL RECENTLY HELD ITS 16TH ANNUAL “CLEAN AND GREEN” GOLF TOURNAMENT AT BRUNSWICK COUNTRY CLUB. Thomas Bryan, Craig Allen, James Poe and Tommy Stroud made up the team who took home top honors, but everyone who participated was a winner for supporting KGIB programs, projects and initiatives that keep our community clean and beautiful.

THE UNITED WAY OF COASTAL GEORGIA RECENTLY HELD ITS 3RD ANNUAL SPELLING BEE-R AT BARRIER ISLAND BREWING CO. ON ST. SIMONS ISLAND. New UWCG President & CEO Ang DeBoskey was on hand for the festivities, where seven contestants squared off in the competition with members of the community cheering them on.

THEY DID IT AGAIN FOR THE LOVE OF WATER! The F.L.O.W. SSI charity paddle from Gould’s Inlet to Village Creek Landing had 111 registered paddlers this year! Participants, volunteers, and friends gathered at the after-party to enjoy music by South of Savannah and The Pine Box Dwellers and delicious food by Schroeder’s Market. Proceeds from silent auction and raffles will benefit S.O.A.R.’s water safety programs for special needs youth.

THE SWEET SOUNDS OF MOTOWN FROM THE LAST LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC CONCERT OF SUMMER 2024 ATTRACTED VISITORS FROM NEAR AND FAR ON LABOR DAY WEEKEND. Friends and families gathered on the St. Simons Lighthouse lawn to enjoy picnics, fellowship, and dancing by the sea. Elegant IslandLiving

is a proud sponsor of this concert series benefiting the Coastal Georgia Historical Society and we look forward to seeing you next year!

Elegant islanD Home

402 Hawkin s I sland Drive

St. Simon s I sland

Li sted by ann Harrell

DeLoach Sotheby’ s International Realty

See Page 105 For Detail s

1889 eagle neCk, townSend, ga

Fly-IN to the Coastal Eagle Neck Community with its own runway. This is the most beautiful lot in this Community! The views over the water and marshfront are breathtaking! You have your own dock for your boat. There is plenty of room to build your airplane hangar on this 1.56 Acre Lot. There is a community pool,tennis courts, boat dock and the covered dock. This home has been lovingly designed for ultimate use and pleasure! The upstairs living is all on one floor,

102 Saint ClaiR, Saint SimonS iSland

This Mid Island 4BR, 3.5BA mid island lagoon home has been very well maintained and LOVED! Mostly on one floor, this renovated home welcomes you with natural light. This lot is a gardener's dream and is .8 Acres. The kitchen is well planned with soft close cabinets and is a delight to cook in with great space and seating at the bar. The spacious primary bedroom is on the main floor. The renovated primary bath has a towel warmer, separate tub and shower and a nice walk in closet Upstairs is a huge bonus room and full bath. It is currently an art studio with lots of light. The great room overlooks a pond and has wonderful privacy. The large back patio is wonderful for entertaining. $829,000

ON THE FRONT COVER: LE MARAIS, 402 HAWKINS ISLAND DRIVE, ST. SIMONS ISLAND 5BR | 6.5BA| $4,850,000

Stunning Georgian-style brick home, inspired by Carter Hall, a significant historic property in Virginia, offers double verandas with breathtaking marsh views. Architectural highlights include intricate, custom woodwork throughout, and antique French imported mantel and chandelier in the living and dining rooms. The marsh-front primary suite features a cozy fireplace and two separate baths. Features include an elevator, 3 car garage with guest quarters, ample storage and a Generac generator. Located in gated Hawkins Island, the magnificent residence features a gourmet kitchen, spacious entertaining areas and beautiful grounds for an elegant coastal lifestyle.

KING AND PRINCE, VILLA 183, SSI 2BR | 2BA | $1,150,000

Optimal Ocean front location sets this furnished, ground floor condo apart. Enjoy the best of our coastal lifestyle walking out from your private patio to the beach and the King and Prince heated pool, hot tubs, tennis courts and oceanfront restaurants. The villas at this historic resort are just moments from some of St. Simon's best restaurants and shopping.

316 FOREST OAKS, ISLAND CLUB 5BR | 5BA | 2HBA $2,250,000

Overlooking the 14th and 15th holes of the Retreat Golf Course, this Mediterranean home is stunning! The large sun splashed living, dining and family rooms flow out to a lovely terrace. Featuring wonderful windows, high ceilings, hwd and stone floors, architectural antiques and a chef’s kitchen, the home manifests quality. Clay tile roof and 3 car garage. Perfect island location close to the Village!

104 MARSH POINT LANE, SSI 4BR | 5BA | 1HBA | $1,470,000

This villa style home sits on a private 1.09-acre marshfront lot with views to the northwest and a community lake to the east. Split floor plan, with the primary suite opening to a rear deck and offering a luxurious bath and walk-in closet. The spacious kitchen includes stainless appliances and two pantries. Great room with fireplace and built-in bookshelves. Outdoor living is enhanced by a pool and a deck.

2901 FREDERICA ROAD, SSI | 912-638-0406 |

35 FREDERICA OAKS LN Saint Simons Island, 4BR | 3BA | 3,275 SF | $1,850,000 This charming residence in the coveted Frederica Oaks Community, offers over 3,200 square feet of elegant living space with 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The small community's streets are lined with majestic live oaks, creating a picturesque and family-friendly atmosphere. The expansive backyard offers ample space for a pool and includes a deep well for irrigation. On the ground floor, you'll find two bedrooms, one tucked behind the kitchen and includes a built-in Murphy bed, office space, and a full hall bath. This home is in pristine, like-new condition. Primary Suite and sitting room with lovely bath /shower /soaking tub. Elevator to upstairs. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to own a beautiful home in Frederica Oaks!

118 PIRATES COVE Saint Simons Island, 4BR | 4BA | 4,380 SF | $1,189,000 This house features 3,400 square feet of main living space on the bottom floor of the house, featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The upstairs is 980 sf of heated and cooled bonus living space that can be used as additional bedrooms, office area, or climate controlled storage. A large sunroom spans the back of the house, complete with its own HVAC system. The yard has its own well, as well as yard lighting. This home is conveniently located in the mid-south part of the island, just 1 mile from the causeway and a short bike ride to the beach. Voted Best Buy!

116 HARROGATE ROAD Saint Simons Island, 3BR | 2BA | 2,820 SF | $995,000 New roof , remodeled kitchen, remodeled bathrooms. When you enter this home you feel relaxed and comfortable, featuring office/dining room, living room, split bedrooms she shed potting shed, gorgeous backyard! You have to see this!

An intimate gated community of 27 luxury homes adjacent to the prestigious Frederica Golf Club on beautiful Saint Simons Island. The original purchaser of each Frederica Marsh Cottages will be offered application rights for a Full Golf Membership at Frederica Golf Club, subject to acceptance by the club. Scan the QR code for more information.

6 Fred Drive • $1,895,000 • 3,647 +/- SF | 4BR | 4.5BA

Cape Code style shaped by the shifting sands of the Golden Isles. A bright, airy exterior gives way to open, well appointed living space with well proportioned sleeping quarters. MLS 1644321

A modern Tudor with coastal flare, a fresh perspective on a traditional palette. With its soaring, double height living space, chef's kitchen and cozy nooks, this home has everything a family needs to spread out, relax, and refocus. Southern elegance with a laid back island feel. MLS 1644260

With exposed rafters, metal roofing and clapboard siding, 40 Erica Lane is a quintessential coastal cottage. A traditional southern entry porch greets visitors before welcoming them into a modern, open floorplan.This home exudes southern elegance with a laid back island feel. MLS 1644361

2 Fred Drive • $1,835,000 • 3,447 +/- SF | 4 or 5BR | 5BA

Distinctly Southern details and warm materials blend seamlessly with the Spanish moss and live oaks at Frederica. Inside, each space flows generously into the next, providing an unmatched layout for gathering and entertaining. This cottage is just the right size to accommodate family and friends. MLS 1644252

With grays, greens and classic cedar texture, this cottage evokes a feeling somewhere between the Lowcountry and the Hamptons, and is right at home in the Marshes of Glynn. Single-level living. Stay just as connected to each other as to the Islandas natural surroundings. MLS 1644251

A composition inspired by the charming streets of Charleston, this quiet colonial cottage folds into the surrounding marsh front landscape. Appearing modest at arrival, the interior display features vaulted living spaces which blur the boundaries between interior and exterior. MLS 1647260 40 Erica Lane

A private golf club on St. Simons Island dedicated to creating an unmatched golf and club experience. Through their world class facilities and staff, they are able to provide outstanding service for members and guests. Access to amenities is subject to Frederica Golf Club membership. Membership application rights are available with the below homes, subject to approval by the club.

27 Cameron Circle, Saint Simons Island • $4,495,000 Nestled on one of the less frequented roads in Frederica Township and overlooking the lake, this all-on-one-level new construction home combines luxury living and the beauty of nature. Scheduled for completion December 2024. Overflowing with thoughtful details, this impressive home features arched windows and walkways, Italian stone floors, breathtaking vaulted ceilings with pecky cypress wood detailing, and natural light filling every corner of this airy 4-bedroom, 4.5 bathroom European-style beauty. Step inside to discover a spacious open floor plan where the heart of the home awaits. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, complete with state-of-the-art appliances, sleek countertops, and a scullery for additional prep and storage space. Entertain effortlessly in the adjacent dining area or gather around the cozy fireplace in the grand living room. Tucked away from the main living areas, the den is the perfect spot for a quiet conversation or watching your favorite movie. The master suite is a true private retreat with stunning lake views, a luxurious ensuite bathroom featuring a soaking tub and dual vanities, and an impressive walk-in closet. Each additional bedroom is thoughtfully designed with ample space and privacy. The large study is thoughtfully located at the front of the home, just as you enter the home from the breezeway connecting the 3-car garage. Picturesque views of the tranquil lake, expansive yard and private dock. MLS 1647282.

379 Pikes Bluff Drive, Saint Simons Island • $3,350,000

Situated along a protected, wooded area called the Rookery in coveted Frederica Township, this exquisite new construction home is well underway and is scheduled for completion in October 2024. This traditional low-country style home exudes sophistication and invites you to experience the epitome of luxurious coastal living with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. From the moment you arrive, the meticulously landscaped grounds and inviting gas lanterns set a welcoming tone. Step inside to discover a residence crafted with the finest attention to detail. MLS 1647274.

Cottage 89, East 5th St, Sea Island A cottage by the sea. Traditional classic architecture specifically for the Sea Island beach and oceanfront living on 5th Street. Each room is carefully planned and rewarding to the eye. Casual, comfortable and elegant. Five bedrooms, five full baths plus two half baths. The master bedroom has vaulted and beamed ceiling, fireplace, expansive bath and is adjacent to den/office with access to an oceanside porch. The guest bedrooms are gracious and lovely. There is something new to discover in each room. All social areas have inspiring ocean views. The Living Room has 12' box beamed ceilings, Palladian windows, fireplace, heart of pine floors. The old pine floors and high ceilings continue in the Dining Room. The Family Room features high beamed tongue-in-groove ceilings, limestone floors, and fireplace. The chef's kitchen is open to a breakfast area. A barrel ceiling, paneled observatory on the top level of the home adds an exciting element. The grounds are immaculate and the courtyard gardens with brick walkways, tabby wall and fountain provide a real sense of arrival at a world class home. 5th Street, Sea Island. A rare opportunity. $21,995,000

Cottage 309, W. 39th Street, Sea Island Imagine waking up to this view every day! Stepping inside the front door exposes you to broad water and marsh views that draw you to the hardwood deck. Expansive window walls provide a direct connection to the natural beauty from every room. All on one level, this 4-bedroom home is fully furnished, including the heavy-duty Jon boat and kayak for the creek brimming with red fish and trout. A favorite of the local guides! Tucked away at the end of a cul-de-sac, maximum privacy adds to the intrigue and appeal. A high-ceilinged Great Room with fireplace has handsome beams and rafters. The 11’ ceiling and ample windows in the Kitchen/Den also bring in the vistas. This is a solid custom home built on pilings in the experienced hands of Lamar Webb and Cofer Construction. A most unique and sensational property! $5,995,000

Cottage 332, E. 31st Street, Sea Island

Seven bedrooms, one story, brand new. Truly turn key.  Smart and lovingly designed custom family compound that is elegant, luxurious, yet warm and comfortable. Located on the east side of Sea Island Drive about 100 steps from the beach. There is something magical about this cottage and its grounds. You’ll sense it as soon as you enter the iron and glass front door. The arched foyer opens to vaulted ceilings of the Great Room. Elegant fireplace with Viatera quartz hearth. The Social Kitchen, also with vaulted ceiling, is a chef’s haven built for socializing and serious cooking. All high-end appliances including La Cornue range/oven, two oversized islands, beautiful cabinetry, Cristallo Quartz exotic stone countertops. The glass Breakfast Room provides a 270degree view of the pool and majestical grounds. 1500 square feet of deck encompassing a gas and lava rock fire pit, covered Kitchen/Bar and alfresco dining area under the oaks. Two of the bedrooms are in the detached Guest House which has living room, kitchenette and bath. The 7th bedroom is in a separate building and has a sitting area, full bath with the versatility to be an office, Bonus Room or "Man or Woman Cave". Cottage 332 is an entertainer's dream with a beautiful spirit about it. Delightful surprises abound and are enjoyed throughout this lovely home.Come discover them. $7,995,000

Cottage 500, W. 44th Street, Sea Island

Discover the allure of Cottage 500, a standout gem nestled on the banks of the Black Banks River. With an expansive layout boasting 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths, and glass walls providing unparalleled views, this home is a haven for those who value luxury. Its exquisite architecture and open floor plan create a perfect blend of style and comfort, a testament to impeccable design. Each space within this home invites warmth, from the grand three-story foyer to the generous Great Room, complete with a cozy fireplace. Dining is an event here, with ample space for a large family in the dining room and a chef's kitchen accompanied by an eating area seating eight. Every room, including family room with wet bar, two ice machines and a fireplace and the master suite with its opulent bath, offers breathtaking views, enhancing the home's appeal. The second level houses five spacious bedrooms, each with ensuite bath, all providing vistas of the serene marsh and river. The third-floor surprises with a Cupola, an ideal spot for enjoying river breezes and meals with a view. Renovated to perfection, the property boasts beautiful wood and tile floors, striking furnishings, and modern baths and kitchen. Outdoors, raised terraces and a large heated pool offer abundant space to entertain and revel in the river's sights and sounds. The view-oriented lot, spanning over an acre, is a rare find on the island, complete with a circular front paver driveway and a 3-car garage. Cottage 500 could be your dream Sea Island home. $8,950,000

139 Point Lane | St. Simons 4BR, 4.5BA. Custom Built. Sea Island Neighborhood $3,400,000. Call Any Signature Agent.

212 Hampton Ave | St. Simons 3BR, 2.5BA. Meticulously renovated! $799,000. Janice Morgan. 912-580-1833.

202 Reserve Lane | St. Simons 3BR, 2.5BA. Newly renovated & fully furnished. $615,000. Joan Lewis. 912-258-5841.

116 Alder Circle | St. Simons 5BR, 4BA. Exquisite property with guest house. $1,779,500. Kelli Osteen. 912-270-2505.

101 Hasell Lane | St. Simons 4BR, 4BA. Secluded Island Paradise. $750,000. Margaret Anne Proctor. 912-222-6629.

311 Belmont Circle | Brunswick 4BR, 3BA in Carriage Gate community. $589,500. Marcia Irwin. 678-361-8835.

400 Kelsall Ave | St. Simons 3BR, 3BA. Renovated Island Cottage. 1,299,000. Call Any Signature Agent.

200 Salt Air Dr #138 | St. Simons 4BR, 3.5BA. Fully furnished condo. Near beaches. $725,000. Call Any Signature Agent.

3 Bay Tree Court W. | S. Simons 3BR, 2BA. Tastefully renovated patio home. $535,000. Call Any Signature Agent.

168 Glyndale Circle | Brunswick 3BR, 2BA. Beautifully renovated ranch home. $499,900. Sandra Branch. 912-269-1129.

Reduced

432 Freedom Trail | Brunswick 3BR, 2BA. home in Lexington Place S/D. $395,000. Cynthia Brown. 662-694-9235.

1704 Frederica #323 | St. Simons 1BR, 1BA. Condo in a gated community. $299,900. Marcia Irwin. 678-361-8835.

114 Shell Pointe Dr | Brunswick 5BR, 2.5BA. Stunning home. Desirable neighborhood. $439,900. Kim 912-5064530, Cynthia 662-694-9235.

1061 Sand Dollar Way | Brunswick

5BR, 2BA. Split Floor Plan. $325,000. Convenient Location. Ruth Beall. 912-269-5596.

1922 Stonewall Street | Brunswick

3BR, 2BA. Fully furnished Cottage. $160,000. Kim. 912-506-4530, Cynthia 662-694-9235.

418 Norwich Street | Brunswick 4BR, 2BA. Charming ranch in the heart of downtown. $425,000. Sandra Branch. 91-269-1129.

1013 Merchant Lane SE | Townsend 3BR, 2BA. Charming home on 1/2 acre lot. $279,900. Kim 912-506-4530. Cynthia 662-694-9235.

Lots for Sale

Grey Hawk Drive, Waverly

1.5 acre lot in a quiet neighborhood. $25,000. Kelsi Brooks. 832-279-7344

Lot 42 Lazy Eight, Townsend Aviation Community. 1.04 acre lot. $39,500. Ruth Beall. 912-269-5596

Canopy Lane, Waverly, GA

.76 acre lot in Maiden Creek Landing $56,000. Kelsi Brooks, 832-279-7344

43 Lazy Eight | Townsend Runway Lot for Fly-in Community $54,900. Ruth Beall. 912-269-5596

Discover coastal elegance in this custom-built masterpiece nestled within a private gated community. Just moments from Oglethorpe Elementary School and the Stables at Frederica, this home offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Indulge in the ultimate island lifestyle with eligibility for a Sea Palms Membership, granting access to championship golf, a resort-style pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and exclusive amenities at The Beach Club SSI. The main level showcases a gourmet kitchen that seamlessly flows into a spacious living area, creating an ideal space for entertaining. A luxurious primary suite complete with his and her closets, and a cozy family room complete the first floor. Upstairs, two generously sized bedroom suites, each with its own private bath and walkin closet, offer privacy and comfort. A fourth bedroom, perfect for guests or a home office, is located above the garage and includes ample storage. Unwind in your own private oasis bordering Musgrove Plantation with a stunning outdoor living space featuring a cozy fireplace and built-in grill. This lovely home is being sold completely furnished.

115 SIMONTON WAY - $549,000 GREAT PRICE REDUCTION on this 4 BR, 3.5 BA home in a desirable mid-island location. Primary bedroom is located on the main level and the primary bath has double vanity, separate shower, and garden tub. One of the upstairs bedrooms can be used as a bonus room with a full bathroom and closet space. The kitchen features all NEW stainless Whirlpool appliances and granite countertops. The laundry room is located off the kitchen and includes a full-size washer/dryer. There is also a nice breakfast area leading to the private fenced backyard and deck. Roof was replaced in 2022. Home has two HVAC units, both were replaced last year. Located in the "X" flood zone. Call Joy Wright (912) 230-0134.

123 OLD WHARF ROAD - $89,900 Here's your chance to build your dream home on this .55 acre corner lot on exclusive Oak Grove Island. Enjoy all the community amenities that include pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, playground and picnic area. There is an 18-hole golf course and a clubhouse with a restaurant that provides a great dining experience. The Yacht Club as well as storage for your boat or RV parking are also available to join. This lot is located in an "X" flood zone.Call Joy Wright (912) 230-0134.

Real Escapes Properties is one of the largest Property Management Companies on St. Simons Island. We’ve been a local, family-owned and operated business since 2004. We currently have over 150 short term vacation rentals and several long-term rentals and all are located right here on St. Simons Island - where our focus has always been!

At Real Escapes Properties, we do so much more than simply putting a few pictures of your investment property online and waiting for the interested parties to call in. Instead, we create an individual profile for each and every property to really emphasize everything that makes your property appealing and special. We meet with our homeowners and discuss their needs and their goals and set pricing based on each unique property.

We look forward to proving our motto that "You already have a friend on the Island" with the wonderful staff at Real Escapes Properties. Call us today to discuss property management options - we look forward to hearing from you soon!

If once you have slept on an island

You'll never be quite the same;

You may look as you looked the day before

And go by the same old name,

You may bustle about in street and shop

You may sit at home and sew,

But you'll see blue water and wheeling gulls

Wherever your feet may go.

You may chat with the neighbors of this & that

And close to your fire keep,

But you'll hear ship whistle and lighthouse bell

And tides beat through your sleep.

Oh! you won't know why and you can't say how

Such a change upon you came,

But once you have slept on an island, You'll never be quite the same.

- Rachel Field

300 Carnoustie Elegant all one-level 4BR, 4.5BA stucco home with custom features. Beautiful LR with built-in cabinetry and fireplace. The primary suite features a sitting area and ensuite bath with double vanities, shower, and soaking tub. Screened-in back porch with a private back patio. Large corner lot. Sold furnished or unfurnished. $1,350,000

303 Shipwatch Discover luxury on picturesque St Simons Island. This condo community offers waterfront views and direct beach access. Top floor 2BR, 2BA, open concept living and kitchen, ideal for relaxation and entertaining. Resortstyle community pool, beach boardwalk access, covered parking, elevator, and lush landscaped grounds. $599,900

King & Prince South Villas #157 Nice ocean views from this first floor, 2BR, 2BA condo updated in 2021. Overlooking the south villa pool and just a short walk to the beach. Wonderful opportunity to have an investment property on the beach or enjoy it as a second home! $1,150,000

315 Lantern Walk Modern luxury in this stunning 3BR, 3.5BA. All baths have been beautifully renovated. Pristine hwd flooring the main level, a cozy gas fireplace with new mosaic surround for those chilly evenings and custom closets to keep your belongings organized. Your guests will enjoy the privacy of their own first floor BR with ensuite while the primary and additional bedroom are upstairs. $638,000

109 Rice Mill This marsh-front home in Hampton Plantation has an excellent open floor plan. 3BR, 2.5BA, gated community. Spacious primary BR suite with a large walk-in closet and bath w/ separate tub and shower. Main living room w/ gas fireplace and a wall of windows/doors that open to a deck across the rear of the house. $970,000

CONTRACT

158 Ledbetter Ave NEW CONSTRUCTION in Oyster Grove. Two-story 4BR, 3.5BA. Primary suite on main. Luxury interior features include hwd flooring, tile flooring in all wet areas, carpet, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, custom wood shelving, and a gas tankless water heater. www.oystergrove.com $978,500 Oyster

912

VACATION | LONG TERM RENTALS | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

605 Ocean Beach bungalow located within the Village Historic Preservation District. 2BR, 2.5BA with screened back porch. Sleeps 4.

Shipwatch Retreat - Top-level 2BR, 2BA end unit. Community pool and access to the beach. Sleeps 6.

East Beach - 4217 Seventh Street - Amazing 4BR, 3BA family-friendly home with pool.

Demere Landing - Beautiful condo in a lovely neighborhood convenient to the Village, shopping, restaurants, and beach access. Sleeps 6.

East Beach - 7 Coast Cottage Coastal gem steps away from the best beach on the island. 4BR, 4.5BA. Sleeps 8. 621 May Joe 4BR, 5.5BA vacation home with open floorplan and private pool. Sleeps 12.

King & Prince - St. Simons Island King and Prince ocean view villas. Call today to check availability!

4206 Eighth St - Newly remodeled East Beach cottage with private backyard and pool. 5BR, 5.5BA. Steps to beach access! Sleeps 14.

519 Bartow - 4BR, 4.5BA vacation home near the Pier and Village. Private pool. Sleeps 10.

Short walk to beach. Sleeps 9.

Dog-Gone Spooky

Carl Olaf “C.O.” Svendsen became the keeper of the St. Simons Lighthouse in 1907 and would remain in the position until 1935. During his 28-year tenure, Svendsen, his wife Annie, and his children Carl, Jr., Lucille, and Helen lived in the Keeper’s Dwelling, which they shared with assistant keepers and their own families.

Photographs taken by the Svendsen family provide glimpses into their daily lives as the children grow up in the Keeper’s Dwelling and the work of the lighthouse steadily continues. Holiday celebrations and island events are intermixed with portraits of everyday activities. Some of the photographs feature a constant presence: Jinx, the Svendsen family dog.

In addition to being a beloved pet, Jinx is remembered as the source of eerie lighthouse folklore. For the Svendsens, the dog raised questions about the possibility of a ghostly inhabitant of the Lighthouse. Nearly thirty years before C.O. Svendsen became the keeper, the light was operated by Frederick Osborne, who shared duties with assistant keeper John Stevens. Close quarters led to conflict between the two men. After a particularly heated argument in late February of 1880, Stevens fatally shot Osborne. Though it appears that Stevens was found to have acted in self-defense, he was relieved of his duties by the Lighthouse Service.

The Svendsen family had certainly heard this story, and for them, it explained some of Jinx’s mysterious reactions. Although Jinx was used to the sound of keepers climbing up and down the lighthouse stairs, other sounds from the tower seemed to scare the dog. The Svendsens heard these sounds too, often describing them as footsteps. Annie, C.O.’s wife, observed that Jinx would back away, growl, and even hide under furniture when hearing the “footsteps” from the tower. The story of the ghost is still known today, and Jinx’s reaction to the unknown has left many curious lighthouse visitors with chills down their spines.

Both of this month’s images from the collections of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society feature Jinx: one at the Keeper’s Dwelling with Annie Svendsen and the other in front of the lighthouse tower. These and other images from the Svendsens’ tenure at the lighthouse were generously donated by Carl Olaf Svendsen, Jr.

Coastal Georgia Historical Society presents this article and images from our archives as part of our mission “to connect people to Coastal Georgia’s dynamic history.” The Society operates the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and the World War II Home Front Museum, housed in the Historic Coast Guard Station at East Beach. To learn more about the Society, its museums, diverse programs, and membership, please visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.