Coastal Georgia offers visitors and residents alike a rich history that is centuries old.  St. Simons Island, once an island of cotton plantations and lumber industry, holds particular interest as so much of the history is available to see.  When you visit Christ Church and wander through the cemetery there that holds the remains of famous islanders you’ll see such names as Gould, King, Spalding and Jones among many others.

I am particularly drawn to to the King family and their Retreat Plantation, once a thriving part of the local cotton industry.  Anna King inherited Retreat in 1827.  She ran the plantation with a firm business hand, seeing after the running of the vast property while her husband, Thomas Butler King, a member of Congress, travelled for both political and social reasons.  Anna also saw to it that her slaves were treated fairly and even educated.

Perhaps one of the most famous stories to come from Retreat Plantation is that of Neptune Small.  Small, a plantation slave, accompanied “Lordy” King to battle during the Civil War.  He recovered his master’s body, after the young man was killed in the Battle of Fredericksburg, returning it for burial in the Christ Church cemetery.  Instead of staying on St. Simons, Neptune insisted on returning  to battle to care for R. Cuyler King, Lordy’s brother.  After the war, Neptune was freed and given a tract of land on the Retreat Property that is now Neptune Park.  Pamela Bauer Mueller’s award winning book “Neptune’s Honor” tells the story so well.  Her book is available at most local bookstores or through Amazon here:  http://www.amazon.com

www.puttinonthegrits.com

Also of special note is the slave hospital, whose ruins still stand in memory of the two women who served as nurses there.

The stately Avenue of the Oaks, planted more than 160 years ago, now provides the entrance to “The Lodge”, a Sea Island Company property.  History remains in the form of ruins and stories amidst the beauty of The Lodge and the world class golf course that now covers what once was.

Melissa | people | 07 17th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

One of the things I love about doing my blog is that I get to choose the subject I write about on any given day.  I always dread reading that yet another person wandered out onto the sand bars just off the coast of either St. Simons Island or Jekyll Island, never to return.  Unfortunately, that headline stood out on the front page of this morning’s copy of The Brunswick News.  More people are saved by local emergency crews than perish, but that one person that does not make it might have lived had they been aware of the dangers in area waters.  This is not just ocean water I’m talking about, but the many rivers and lakes we all enjoy.

It may interest readers to note that every six hours we experience a ten foot rise and fall of waters off our coast.  As the tide changes strong rip currents develop between the shore and sand bars.  Only the strongest swimmers can handle these currents and even that is not always the case.  I am reminded of how dangerous the ocean can be when I read of another life lost.  The power of water to pull you into the depths and prevent you from being able to break away is never to be underestimated.  But Sunday’s tragedy did not involve high tide.  It involved a person who was not a good swimmer venturing out onto a sand bar and going into the water just beyond the bar.  It was low tide, but the deep water, for an inexperienced swimmer, meant the end of a young life.  The two teens who accompanied the victim were saved.

Glynn County Police Chief, Matt Doering, was recently featured in an article in The Brunswick News  regarding  his concern over the dangerous currents around the sand bars.  He advocates putting signs at all 35 beach entrances on St. Simons Island showing the sand bars at both high and low tide.  He is also calling for a structure to be built on the beach that would house emergency kayaks and other equipment for rescuing swimmers. Monies for this project would be provided from police seizures of criminal contraband.

Dale Provenzano, County Commissioner representing St. Simons Island, also expressed concern over the situation.  Mr. Provenzano is working on a plan that would increase water safety throughout the island, not just the beaches.  I will be featuring a post on Mr. Provenzano and his plan in the near future.  Bottom line, he feels that people must be educated so they know the potential danger and realize the need to be a strong swimmer before entering any waterway.

As our area grows and more people visit Coastal Georgia or move here as residents the issue of water safety grows.  Please be informed about the dangers involved with changing tides and if you have not taken a certified course in swimming, do so.  You can find out more about courses offered through our local YMCA here: http://www.ymcaofcoastalga.org/ymca/golden-isles/golden-isles-family-ymca or at St. Simons Health & Fitness Club here:  http://stsimonshealthclub.clubhouseonline-e3.com

Melissa | people | 07 16th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I first met Gene Threats (pronounced Threets), at the Sea Island Black Heritage Festival at Gascoigne Point.  I saw his art work from across the park where I stood and felt drawn to take a closer look.  The intricate detail of his colored pencil drawings is amazing.  Time and patience show through, his blending of color and texture.

Gene is a very accomplished artist who follows his heart and creates works that are unique and speak to social issues as well as history.

He’s been drawing all of his life.  His mother, Minnie Pearl, worked as a clothing designer and seamstress.  Gene would sit on the floor sketching away as his mother worked.  She always encouraged his creativity and saw to it that Gene got his degree in art from Valdosta State when the time came.

As so often happens in life, Gene could not find work in his field once out of college.  He took a job in a bank in Brunswick and worked his way into a good paying position.  In all, he worked in three local banks, excelling at each one and finally being asked to use his art in his final position at First Georgia Bank to produce graphic artwork as continued his other work.

In 1996 a sudden illness struck Gene, sending him to the hospital for a one month stay.  He received a diagnosis of renal failure, a complete surprise since he had no signs of the illness and there was no history of it in his family. He recalls clearly hearing the voice of God saying not once, but twice, “Now you have time to do your artwork.”  His mother repeated the same words to him and brought his colored pencils and all of the materials he needed to begin drawing as he went through dialysis for hours at a time several days a week.

Unable to work at a full time job any longer, Gene began to work at his art.  A kidney became available for the transplant he desperately needed in May of 2000 after which he has regained his health and stamina.   He became a spokesperson for the Kidney Foundation and to be an advocate for disabled artists.   He began to show his work at local festivals and art shows, always placing and always winning recognition and a prize.

Although many of his paintings reflect his Black heritage, Gene says that art is of no color, it’s what you feel and see.  He teaches when he has the opportunity and tells his story with passion and emotion.  His work has been heavily influenced by his love of the soft blended colors of the Impressionist period.

A year ago, Gene lost his beloved mother and mentor.  He cared for her in her final years and speaks so fondly of the inspiration and guidance she always provided.  I felt her lovely presence when he shared the last photo he took of her.

Gene is an accomplished photographer, teacher and artist.   You can contact him about his work and commissions at 912-996-9057,

Melissa | Out&About | 07 15th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I’ve been posting over the past few weeks about being fit and healthy.  One of the components of good health is eating whole, natural foods that are pesticide and additive free.  I visited Island Natural Market & Cafe to find out exactly what is available there and was delighted to find a complete selection of food and beauty items that go along with both the Paleo and Gluten free eating programs I have featured in past posts.

Jeff Switzer

Jeff and Susan Switzer are the owners of the shop.  They have been running their business for almost ten years now and have created a treasure trove of natural products for the most discerning health seekers.

From the Hunter Cattle Company, located in the Statesboro, GA area, you’ll find grass fed beef, pastured pork, free range chicken and fresh eggs.  Read more about the Hunter Cattle Company here:  http://www.huntercattle.com

Island Natural Market has one of the best selections of gluten free products to be found anywhere!  The entire Udi line of breads, rolls, pizza and muffins are available for gluten free enjoyment.

Superfoods, like Goji Berries, abound.  The smoothie and juice bar at the back of the shop offers delicious concoctions as well as freshly made wraps, dips and other gourmet items to eat in or take out.

Looking for sulfite free wines?  You’ll find a great selection here.

Local honey and olive oil, so good for so many reasons.

And a full array of every kind of tincture, essential oil, vitamin, mineral and homeopathic remedy for all of your natural health needs.

The staff at Island Natural Market is knowledgeable and helpful so you never need to wander around hoping to find the right thing.  Ask at the front counter and help will be there

Whatever your health and dietary needs may be, you’ll find them here and if they don’t have what you’re looking for, they will gladly order your special requests.

Island Natural Market & Cafe – 204 Retreat Village – St. Simons Island, GA – 31522

Melissa | Out&About | 07 11th, 2013 | 8 Comments »

A mutual friend introduced me to June Hall McCash.  Having seen her beautiful books about Jekyll Island, the famous Jekyll Island Club Hotel and its members, I jumped at the chance to meet this lovely lady!

Writing is June’s way of life.  When I asked her what else she enjoys, she mentioned time with her family, studying history and spending time at her home on Jekyll Island, but writing always tops her list.

She wrote her first story at the age of six and the rest is, shall we say,  history.  When June and her late husband, Bart, discovered Jekyll Island in 1983 they knew they had found their second home.  Both of them shared a love of the South and careers as educators at the college level in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.  When they settled on Jekyll they began to explore the history of the area.  At that time one could actually see the register of the original Jekyll Club Hotel listing its elite members.  June refers to the Club as a Southern haven for America’s millionaires that, thankfully, has been saved.  The records are no longer open for public viewing but the stories and the history still stir the interest of visitors and residents alike.

Her first book, The Jekyll Island Club, was published in 1989.  Three more books on the famous establishment and its history have followed, including her most recent work she co-authored with her son, Brendan Martin, which celebrates the twenty-fifth anniversary of the restored Jekyll Island Club Hotel.    June continues her writing of both non-fiction and historical fiction.   Her first novel, “Almost to Eden” received Georgia Author of the Year for a First Novel by the Georgia Writers Association in 2011.  “Plum Orchard” followed being awarded “Georgia Author of the Year” in 2012.  June is now working on a new novel, “Boys of Shiloh”, another fictional work that is set in the Civil War era and reveals the realities of war to young readers.

We discussed all of her various literary accomplishments and one, in particular, that I did not know about until our meeting.  “A Titanic Love Story:  Ida & Isidor Straus”, is now on my list of books to read.  June wrote this factual novel about the Straus’, the only “first class” couple who chose to die together on the Titanic.  Owners of the famous retail store that began in New York City, Macy’s, the Straus’ we on that ill fated voyage.  As Ida Straus made ready to board a lifeboat she realized her husband could not accompany her as the men were allowing women and children to be rescued first.  Their forty year marriage, based on a deep love and partnership, led her to make the decision to stay by his side.  As we all know, many of the passengers and crew did not make it off the Titanic.  The Straus’ spent their final hours in each others arms as the great ship met its end.  To hear about this fascinating book listen here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Npv6mNpuPbM

June and I agreed that we could have talked for days.  With our love of the written word and history we have many subjects to address when we meet again.  For now, June is with her family in Tennessee, but Jekyll will draw her back when fall arrives and we will have stories to share.

Melissa | people | 07 10th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I will always be the first to admit that I am not a great golfer!  But I truly love the game, the frustration and challenge of it as well as the satisfaction when I actually hit a good shot!

But what I love most of all is being out on the course, surrounded by nature.

The King & Prince Golf Resort has to be one of the most beautiful courses I have ever been on.

It is situated at the north end of St. Simons Island with spectacular views of the marshes and the wildlife that dwells there.

At one time this was the site of the famous Hampton Plantation, known for it’s cotton production.  Now, golf reigns supreme, on this course that underwent a complete renovation in 2009, making it one of the South’s finest courses.

This is a Par 72 course that winds through the coastal marshlands, crosses gently winding bridges and provides the best golf experience for members and guests alike.

Speaking of local wildlife, we saw a Bald Eagle feeding it’s eaglets in a nest high atop a tree that stands to the right of one of the greens at marshes edge.

On St. Simons Island we are blessed with a climate that makes golf possible anytime of the year.

If you’re coming to visit the island make reservations to stay at the King & Prince Resort.  It’s ocean side, you’ll be driven to the golf course for your tee time and whisked back to the resort in time for cocktails on the beach as the sun sets in the Western sky.  It can’t get any better than that!

You’ll find more information on the King & Prince Golf Resort here:  http://www.kingandprince.com/

Melissa | people | 07 9th, 2013 | No Comments »

I posted about The Farm at Oatland North over a month ago.

Oatland is that special retreat where animals go to retire that is run by Barbara Murrah and her family.  Once the site of a thriving plantation, it is now a place where rescued and retired animals of all kinds can go to be safe and cared for, to live out their lives.

But Barbara Murrah is not able to continue supporting the farm financially since being diagnosed with Leukemia.  She continues to undergo aggressive therapy that will continue for months, leaving her weak and unable to carry own her career as an intensive care nurse.  Her career is what has funded the farm thus far.

I attended a fundraiser yesterday for the farm.  Bennie’s Red Barn opened its doors to friends and supporters of the Murrah family.

A great Southern summer afternoon was had by all as fried chicken was served up and a one man Reggae band filled the air with lively music.

In true St. Simons Island style donations flowed to help insure the farm can continue.

For information on what you can do to help, please visit:  http://www.thefarmssi.com/.

Barbara and Natalie

Wishing Barbara Murrah a complete recovery and a return to the work she loves.

Melissa | people | 07 8th, 2013 | No Comments »

If you started from day one with me you may remember my post about Chef Dave Snyder.

Dave is such a fine chef, as I shared with you in February.  I am also honored to call him my friend.  He is not a guy who let’s a lot of grass grow under his feet.

He can be found on his boat, traveling through local waters to provide the finest catch for his restaurants Halyard’s and Tramici.

But lately, in his latest endeavor, he has launched Halyard’s Catering.

The logo on the website, www.halyardscatering.com, reads “A Passion For The Perfect Event”….and that’s what you’ll get when you contract with this group to work with you to create an event no one will ever forget.

Their presentation is spectacular.  The menu offers a delicious array of dishes sure to please the most discerning guest.  And Halyards Catering will take care of all of your event needs at their location, yours or anyplace you might have in mind.

You can always count on the best service, quality and attention to detail when you work with Halyard’s Catering.

And then……Chef Dave is offering his famous cooking classes!  The next class will take place on June 15th which will focus on a menu to pair with fine red wines.

You’ll want to make your reservations quickly, these classes fill up and rightfully so!

Thanks Chef Dave….you continue to amaze and delight your customers with the latest in culinary excellence!

 Halyard’s Catering – St. Simons Island, GA – 912-399-0241

Melissa | Out&About | 07 7th, 2013 | No Comments »

The prefix Paleo stands for old, ancient and prehistoric.  But the newest diet to hit the top of the charts, The Paleo Diet, is anything but that!  In fact, I think the word diet is really inappropriate for this eating program that has people slimming down, toning up and feeling better than ever.

I met with Charlie Young when I visited Cross Fit Grit last week.  Charlie is another picture of health!  He shared his journey to health with me, even a picture of him pre-Paleo when he was fifty pounds overweight (He’s the guy on the far right).  The change in his physical appearance and the way he feels having shed those excess pounds is nothing short of miraculous!

The Paleo diet, to put it simply, is an eating program that emphasizes lean animal protein that is either locally raised and grass fed or fresh/wild caught.

Lots of fresh vegetables, even for breakfast!

Fresh fruits, and nuts of all types.  Organic, locally grown and seasonal is the way to go when selecting what to eat.  The theory of this diet is that as you break the habit of eating grains and sugar, your body will transition into a fat burning machine.

From the looks of Charlie Young, I’d say it’s true!  I’m gradually easing into the 80/20 version of the program and seeing how it makes me feel…..stay tuned!

If you’re interested in reading more about the Paleo eating program go to:  http://www.marksdailyapple.com/ or http://robbwolf.com/shop/products/the-paleo-solution-the-original-human-diet/.

And here’s the link to Cross Fit Grit once again if you want to make an appointment to meet with Charlie or Todd Thompson and get your own transformation going!  http://www.crossfitgrit.com/

Melissa | people | 07 3rd, 2013 | 5 Comments »