I approached the front doors of the Humane Society with great trepidation.  Right on time for my appointment with Virginia Schlegel, the Executive Director of the society, I felt hesitant to go inside and see all of the precious little kittens, puppies, cats and dogs.  Knowing my weakness for all things furry, my guard went up.  Of course, it didn’t take long for that to stop as I looked around at all the little cuties available for adoption.  I’m featuring pictures throughout this post of some of the adoptable cats and dogs now housed at the shelter.  They may not be available by the time you read this, but there will be others to choose from.

My first site was a screened in “porch” area outfitted for frisky play by kittens and cats alike.  What fun, seeing them scurry here and there….into the building and back out again to their little piece of heaven.

Once inside my eyes were met by a welcoming front desk.  To the right of the desk, an unexpected section of pet supplies.  All sorts of leashes, collars and toys brightly displayed, just waiting to be purchased, at very reasonable prices I might add.

The loving care provided for these animals is evident everywhere you look.  Ms. Schelegel has accomplished nothing short of a miracle in her position at the Humane Society.  She admits to running the operation like any other successful business.  Since she became Executive Director adoptions have increased by 30% and the beautiful new 20,000 square foot facility is completed and fully occupied.

Virginia Schlegel

Joy

It has been a joint effort of volunteers and employees alike, working together to provide this haven for animals.  Missy Weaver is the veterinarian on staff offering spaying, neutering, rabies shots and micro-chipping, also at reasonable prices.  Through donations the facility is able to provide the best in accommodations and health care to all of the animals who are brought to the shelter.

Jake

Roy Scarborough, the resident Animal Behaviorist and Trainer, works with all of the animals.  If a dog has suffered abuse, Roy knows just what to do to see that the dog becomes well adjusted and socialized before being adopted out to a new family.

Pansy & Mario
Two for the Price of One

This is a facility that DOES NOT euthanize for space.  I also learned that they visit the animal shelter just down the road and bring animals to the Humane Society when there is extra space available.

Butch Cassidy

Volunteers are always needed.  Dogs need to be walked, exercised and loved.  Cats need to be held, stroked and given their space….well, they are cats after all.  To learn more about donating or volunteering, go here:  http://www.hsscg.org/welcome.html

I love the fact that the Sherry’s Food Bank boxes, located in grocery and pets stores throughout the Glynn County area provide a resource for pet foods to families who want to keep their beloved pets, but don’t have the funds to buy necessary food and supplies.

This is truly a circle of pet lovers helping each other in every way.  On July 29, 2013 the third annual Fore The Pets Golf Classic will be held at Ocean Forest Golf Club on Sea Island.  You’ll find all of the information about that here:  http://www.hsscg.org/help/fore_the_animals_golf_classic.html

You can become a Shelter Angel with a yearly donation of $1,000.00.  Kennel Sponsorships are $5,000.00 and provide the care of animals in your particular space that bears a small plaque with the name of each sponsor on the door.

If you’re looking for a pet to bring a lot of love into your life, visit the Humane Society.  You’ll find the perfect dog or cat for your family!

Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia – 4627 US Highway 17 North – Brunswick, GA 31525 – 912-230-0112

Melissa | Out&About | 04 30th, 2013 | 8 Comments »

What fun!  Two chefs in a kitchen creating a delicious meal.  MiMi and I have talked about cooking together since we first met a few months ago and it happened last night!  Since it was a “Pink” moon along with an eclipse, something special was in order!  Our creative muses were hard at work as we chopped, tossed, sampled and shared some good red wine.  This menu is a bit different from my other posts.  MiMi is a devoted vegan and I, curious creature that I am, wanted to explore the options.  I’m not sure if I could be vegan full time, but I do believe in eating a more plant based diet and the magic MiMi creates in the kitchen makes me think she could make cardboard taste yummy.  Hats off to a lovely lady, ultra-talented chef and friend.  Here’s the menu:  (Pictures only today….stay tuned tomorrow for recipes…..time in the kitchen took longer than expected!)

Socca with Caramelized Vidalia Onions, Crimini Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts

Zucchini Carpaccio with Blackberries and Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Pasta Puttanesca

 Berry Tart with Coconut Whipped Cream

Sangiovese 

Socca with Caramelized Vidalia Onions, Crimini Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts

Zucchini Carpaccio with Blackberries and Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Pasta Puttanesca

Rustic Berry Tart with Coconut Whipped Cream

We had such a great evening creating this fabulous meal.  You would never have believed it was vegan…..YUM!  Recipes to follow and you’ll love them…easy and delicous!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 26th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

Anyone who follows my blog knows that I stayed at the King & Prince Resort last week as part of a group of “travel writers” who were selected to stay, share our talents, explore and reignite our creativity.  I’ve already shared the fact that the food was simply out of this world.  Each meal we were served was beautifully presented and tasted so delicious.

Let me first thank Leigh Cort, the fabulous publicist who put the whole event together, along with Bud St. Pierre who is head of sales and marketing at the K&P.  The time and effort they put into this experience for us all cannot be equaled.  Every detail, every minute…..everything about the event was carried out without a glitch or a flaw.

The King & Prince has existed on St. Simons Island since 1935.  You might find it interesting to know that the two gentlemen responsible for building the K&P were basically turned out by another club in the area for bad behavior.  They decided that since their company was not acceptable there they would form their own resort.  And they did. During World War II the resort was used as a Naval coast watching and training facility.  In 1947 it returned to an elegant resort that became one of America’s Prestigious Historic Hotels in 1996.   The resort will soon see its 80th year and I’m guessing the celebration of that is already being planned as I write this post.

Things are changing at the King & Prince.  A total renovation of the lobby area is set to begin next November and be finished by February of 2014.  The design, as it was described to us by Michael Johnson, VP of Resort Operations, is nothing short of perfect.  Those who loved the way the original bar was situated on the main floor will be pleased to know it is about to return there.  The indoor pool will no longer exist and the view as you enter the resort will expand for a better view of the beach.

I found my room to be comfortable, the view fantastic and service impeccable.

This is the room where I stayed.

This is the view.

Here are a couple of other rooms you might enjoy seeing.  Both with ocean views!

And then the stunning Delegal dining room with it historic stained glass windows.  What a place to enjoy an award winning Sunday Brunch!

Did I mention the spa?  And golf?  It’s all available here.  Stay tuned for future posts on this and more!

The flow of any hotel is important.  The way the historic section blends with the newer additions works beautifully.  Every detail of upgrading and freshening villas, cabanas and rooms is being seen too.

Remember, this is Saint Simons Island’s only beachfront resort.  Seeing to every detail in the way this staff does defines the high quality guests will be treated too when they visit.

There is so much to do and see here on St. Simons Island.   The rich history of our area, the people who live here and the beauty of the island is waiting for you to explore.  Make your reservations and look forward to a treat!  The King & Prince offers wonderful accommodations in a fabulous setting, what more could you want?

 The King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort – 201 Arnold Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – www.kingandprince.com – 912-638-3631 – 800-342-0212

Melissa | food & entertaining | 04 25th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

I turned off of Kings Way and followed the directions Michele Beveridge provided.  As I pulled up to the Heron Cottage I took a moment to appreciate the architecture of the home.  Charming bungalow style stood before me, a generous front porch leading to a welcoming entrance into this lovely boutique cottage.

Heron is the first of the three cottages offered by the Island Cottage Company.

Owners Michele Beveridge and her builder husband, Scott, have created comfortable spaces for families who want the privacy of an upscale home during their stay on St. Simons Island.  All three of the cottages are within blocks of the beach, the village and other areas of interest.  I also have to tell you that this is a family affair, both of their boys are actively involved in caring for the cottages as well.  No wonder there is such a warm feeling in each of the homes!

Every cottage has its own style.  Michele uses her design skills to create an environment that says “Home” and “Welcome”.  Furthermore, Michele provides a lovely wine and cheese basket to new arrivals and you just never know what baked goodies you may find on the front porch during your stay!  This is the perfect home away from home!

She admits her passion is keeping the rooms fresh with new design items and ideas so that returning guests always come back to something new.

The Piper and Sea Gull cottages are restored homes.  The Heron, largest of the three, was built by Scott, a talented builder whose name is well known throughout the area.

I immediately migrated toward the kitchen in the Heron, a foodies delight!  What fun to stay in a beautifully designed cottage, be able to pick up fresh seafood and produce locally and return to enjoy an evening of cooking and relaxing before the fire on the screen porch.

If you need to get some work done during your visit the Heron has a private work space you’ll find completely outfitted with everything you need to set up shop.

The bedrooms in all of the cottages are pristine, calm and restful.  After a day on the beach or sightseeing you’ll be sure to get a good night’s sleep!

Spacious backyards provide a place for kids to run and play.  Each cottage is equipped with a gas grill and an outdoor dining area.  In the Heron you’ll find a state of the art wine cooler and ice machine.

For more information on renting these charming cottages visit the website:  http://www.islandcottagecompany.com/.

Michele and Scott’s care and attention to the design and comfort of each cottage make them something really special.  Weekly rentals are available during season and three night minimum stays off season.  The Heron and Sea Gull Cottages sleep six and the Piper Cottage sleeps 4 comfortably.

Island Cottage Company – 912-222-4078 – St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 04 24th, 2013 | 4 Comments »

It’s that time of year again!  The shrimp fleet has been blessed in McIntosh County thus marking the beginning of festival season.  Actually, in Coastal Georgia it’s always festival season, but it seems that more of these events begin to occur as the weather warms up and people get outdoors to enjoy it.

The charming Southern town of Woodbine, GA will be rocking and rolling with their 28th annual Crawfish Festival this coming weekend.  This is an event not to be missed if you like festivals, music, parades, arts and crafts and CRAWFISH!  Yum!

Since I was raised on the Gulf Coast of Texas I have to admit that I love some good crawfish when they are in season!  They were not in season when we were in New Orleans at Christmas.  Mr. T suggested that I might get my fill in Woodbine!  Woodbine?  Yes, this festival celebrates one of my favorite sea creatures, mini lobsters in my mind.  Well, maybe not quite, but I do enjoy the sweet, spicy goodness of the tiny piece of meat in the tail.  It’s worth every bit of work!

The parade to launch the festival begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday morning, April 27th.  It is a lively affair with floats, musicians, happy children and even a festival queen.

This is something I love about small towns in America.  They come together for annual events such as this and really enjoy being together.  People come from miles around to join in the fun.  Proceeds from the festival go to help the community in so many worthwhile ways.  Read more about that here:  http://www.woodbinecrawfish.com/.  You’ll also find the full calendar of events featured during the festival at this site.

This year’s entertainment will feature, among others, Atlanta Rhythm Section!  Remember songs like “So Into You”, “Imaginary Lover”, “Spooky” and “Champagne Jam”?  Atlanta Rhythm Section brought these hits to us.  They have been in the biz for more than thirty years now.  I, for one, am really looking forward to hearing them!

Gather up your friends and family!  Support the good folks of Woodbine and experience small town living at its best!  A good time is sure to be had by all.

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 04 23rd, 2013 | No Comments »

There are times in our lives when we meet someone with amazing talent.  When I met with Peggy Everett last week I immediately knew I was in for a treat.  Peggy is not only one of the most talented artists I have ever met, she is a genuine person.  I immediately felt a kindred spirit when I saw her book collection….I know it’s wrong to covet, but anyone who loves fine books would find it difficult not too!

The passion Peggy has for painting is evident on every canvas hanging in her home/studio.

She captures the essence of a horse, it’s coat glowing with a light that has haunting irridescence.  Peggy’s attention to detail is masterful.

Her knowledge and use of the “Plein Air” method of painting particularly attracted my attention.  “Plein Air” is the French term for painting outdoors.  This method became wildly popular during the French Impressionist period when artists like Monet and Renoir painted outdoors, bringing the light of nature into their famous works.

If someone asked me to describe Peggy Everett I would have to say that she is a Renaissance Woman.  Her interests go beyond painting and artwork to cooking, horseback riding, travelling, golf, bridge and fine wines…oh, and that book collection….I could sit for hours, literally, devouring each one!  She constantly feeds her natural curiosity and zest for living.  She is, to put it simply, ageless.

Peggy offers instruction to private students as well as to groups.  You can find out more about these classes on her website:  http://www.peggyeverett.com/index.html.  You’ll also be able to view more of her fabulous paintings on the site.

Peggy’s paintings of horses and dogs are spectacular.  She captures the essence of the animal in a way that brings life to the canvas.

She was raised in Atlanta, Georgia and began her instruction in painting at the age of 15.  She studied with the Shatoff’s, well-known portrait artists.  She also sold her first painting at the age of 15, a true phenom from the very beginning.  Peggy went on to build her career as an artist of note as she studied abstract painting in New York City.  Most recently she studied at the Academy of Fine Art in Florence, Italy.  She continues to grow and stretch her boundaries in a way that provides her artist’s eye with inspiration and fresh ideas.

Peggy works in both oil and acrylic.  She enjoys working with private clients to paint commissioned works that portray everything from their beloved dogs and horses to children and grandchildren.

This is the part of my work that feeds my soul.  Getting to meet a stimulating person like Peggy Everett and experience her essence is invaluable.  This is a woman I could easily call “friend”.  I left my meeting with Peggy itching to get my paintbrushes and tubes of paint out of storage and fill the empty canvasses that lay in boxes in our garage.   But I think I may need some private instruction as well.   She is an inspiration!

Melissa | people | 04 22nd, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I normally post a menu for weekend entertaining on Friday.  Because of the time I spent at the fabulous King & Prince Resort this week I just have to share news of their new chef.

Meet Jason Brumfiel!  Jason is the talented new chef who heads up the culinary staff at the King & Prince.  He is a seasoned, no pun intended, expert who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position.

Previously, Jason worked at Sea Island as chef at the River Bar.  His other experience includes travel to Thailand, France, Italy and Spain which offered him the opportunity to learn more about cuisines from all of these places. He spent several years as Chef de Cuisine at Mantra Restaurant in Great Britain.   His way with flavorings and spices is nothing short of miraculous.

On our first night at the King & Prince we were treated to a decadent cocktail hour during which Chef Jason “wowed” us with one of the most luxurious charcuterie spreads I have seen anywhere in the world.  The cheese came from Georgia’s finest, Sweet Grass Dairy, http://sweetgrassdairy.com.  The texture and flavors of the various cheeses was perfect with the selection of meats Chef chose from Sunset Farms, http://sunsetfarmfoods.com/ another Georgia proprietor from the Valdosta area.  Platters with Georgia olives, condiments, jams and jellies created a festive affair.

To accompany these gourmet delights we enjoyed Southern Mint Juleps that were made with Thirteenth Colony, http://www.13colony.net/ corn whisky, a bit of peach bitters, fresh mint and simple syrup.  They were light and refreshing, served up in mason jars in authentic Southern style!

A delectable Southern dinner followed during which Chef Jason prepared a delicious local favorite, Shrimp & Grits.  He was kind enough to share his recipe with us and it is posted below for you to try at home.  The new culinary trend of eating locally is being carried out in full force by this wonderful chef.

I am so excited about the changes and additions that are ongoing at the King & Prince.  This is St. Simons only beachfront resort.  It has so much to offer.  Stay tuned for more posts on the outstanding culinary experience we shared with Chef Jason.  And posts on the other adventures we shared during our Travel Writers Media Tour.  I can’t end this post without mentioning the awesome woman who put this excursion together for the fourteen attendees so impeccably.  Leigh Cort of Leigh Cort Publicity, http://www.leighcortpublicity.com/ was the mastermind behind this experience, along with Bud St. Pierre who is the Director of Sales & Marketing at the King & Prince.  More on them in future posts as well.

The best part of all is that I am blessed to live here on St. Simons Island!  I can visit the King & Prince Resort to have an amazing “Spa” lunch…more on that later, have cocktails by the ocean and be treated to the fabulous new menus created by Chef Jason Brumfiel!  Lucky Girl…….and a very happy one too.

Here is Chef Jason’s recipe for the best Shrimp & Grits I have ever eaten!

Georgia Low Country Shrimp & Grits

1 pint Logan Turnpike or Quaker Instant Grits

1 pint heavy cream

1 quart water

1/2 pound unsalted butter

salt, to taste

2 lbs. Chorizo or Andouille or smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch slices

1 lb. white corn, roasted and cut off the cob

1 Vidalia onion, chopped

1 green pepper, diced

1 red pepper, diced

1 pint smoked cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mix of fresh cilantro, flat leaf parsley and chives, all chopped

5-6 lbs. Georgia Wild Shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 count/pound if possible

1 pint creme fraiche

2 bundles green onion, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

1.  In a 4-quart pan, place the Cream, Water, Butter and Salt (to taste, keep in mind cheese and chorizo added later will make this dish saltier) and bring to a boil.

2.  When liquid comes to a boil, stir in Grits and whisk until starting to thicken.  Turn off heat, cover with lid and let set about 20 minutes to bloom.

3.  While Grits are blooming, saute the Chorizo, Onions, Peppers & Roasted Corn until nice and colored.  Then, fold that mixture along with the chopped Herb Mix and Smoked Cheddar, then put in a warm area to serve.  If grits are a little stiff, just add a little more cream and gently heat over the stove top.

4.  In a saute pan, heat a little oil to smoking hot.  Season shrimp and saute on high for about 1 minute on each side, then add just a little white wine or shrimp stock or even just a little more butter to pan and let rest in pan while plating grits.  Top grits with shrimp, add a dollop of creme fraiche and garnish with green onions.

CAN I JUST SAY THIS IS SO DELICIOUS!!!  Let me know if and when you try the recipe!

 I will be posting about this elegant resort for all of my readers to see and experience a truly wonderful getaway.  You’ll find yourself making reservations!

\

The King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort – 201 Arnold Road – St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – 912-268-5003 – www.kingandprince.com

Historic Hotels of America

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining, people | 04 19th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

What an extraordinary pleasure to be included in a small group of travel writer’s selected to gather at the King & Prince Resort on Saint Simons Island over the past three days.  Fun is an understatement!  We kept busy eating the fabulous food prepared by the new chef, Jason Brumfiel, and his talented staff.  There will be more to come about my stay there over the next few weeks.  Let me just say that it was one of the best times I have had in a very long time!

Yesterday, we got to take a ride on the Lady Jane, a refurbished shrimping boat we all boarded in the morning for a trip out to Saint Simons Sound.  The weather could not have been more beautiful as we set sail.  Pelicans and sea birds of all types flew alongside the boat.  These are birds with personality!  They sit on the boat, they pose with no shame and wait to be fed as the boat makes it way through the waters.  They are bold enough to help themselves if the offer of fresh catch does not come quickly enough for them!

Three different times the captain ordered the net to be let down into the depths to bring up whatever sea life it dredged off the bottom.  What a surprise as fish, blue crab and all sorts of creatures fell from the net onto the platform to be sorted through.

Phil, a very learned marine biologist, who is part of the crew gave us information on every different species and shared stories of interest with us all.  His vast knowledge of sea life is amazing!

What’s that?   A horseshoe crab!

And that?  Stingrays!  I didn’t know they resided in our local waters!

We were served a delectable helping of freshly steamed sweet Georgia shrimp by one of the other crew members.  Yum!

I highly recommend taking a trip on the Lady Jane.  The business is owned by Marine Surveyor, Captain Larry Credle.  A lifetime of work on the water has left him with all of the necessary skills for running the Lady Jane.  His crew is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.  This is the perfect family excursion during your visit to Georgia’s Golden Isles.  For more information on excursions: www.shrimpcruise.com.  You’ll find different packages to choose from including Captain Credle’s newest addition, a Pirate Ship.  It’s sure to delight any youngster or the young at heart.  It’s all in good fun and it’s a great learning experience.

Lady Jane – 912-265-5711 – www.ShrimpCruise.com

Melissa | people | 04 18th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

Vader, a gorgeous Siberian Husky pup owned by Alan and Heather Tucker stole my heart the minute I saw him as a tiny, little thing.

Tiny no longer!  At forty-eight pounds and still growing he’s a bit timid, all puppy and so loving!

This breed, along with the Malamute, is directly descended from the original “sled dog”.  Research shows that “husky” comes from the word “esky”, once applied to the Eskimos and subsequently to their dogs.

If you ever get the chance to attend the Iditarod, you’ll see these beautiful dogs at the lead of the pack.  They are quick and sure-footed as they lead a team of Malamute’s on the race.

Alan and Heather are both avid dog lovers.  They raise their beloved Labrador Retriever’s which they use for hunting.  Vader fits right in with the pack playing with the other dogs.

Alan owned a Malamute at one time, confessing it was probably his all time favorite, but Vader is moving into that position quickly.

This breed prefers a cooler temperature and will get into water from time to time.  They are extremely smart and were used, in 1925, to deliver serum for diptheria from Nenana, Alaska to Nome, over 600 miles away, thus saving many lives.  Wikipedia uses three words to describe this breed:  Endurance-Fidelity-Intelligence.

Vader’s distinct markings add to his overall beauty.  He’ll stop growing at around 75 pounds in weight with a few more inches added to his height when he reaches adulthood.

This is a sweet natured family dog with a thick double coat that requires weekly grooming.  However, it is that same double coat that allows this breed to adapt happily to a warmer climate such as ours.

How can you help but fall in love with Vader when you look into his beautiful blue eyes!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 16th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

Some of you may remember the post I did in February about Sal Cenicola, The Pie Guy.  In that post I wrote about an upcoming return to the boxing ring that Sal was training for.  Last night was the big night and SAL WON!!!!!!!!!!

I salute your excellence, your determination, your focus and your winning spirit!  Sal, you are an inspiration to us all!  YOU ROCK!!!!!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 14th, 2013 | 2 Comments »