As I was writing the Coastal Illustrated feature for this issue, the theme from the 1960s television show “Gilligan’s Island” kept playing in my head. I watched it during its first run (1964-1967) and I admit, sometimes when I’m channel surfing, if I catch Lovey Howell prancing about in her finery (whilst stranded on a deserted tropical isle, mind you), or the Skipper “strangling” his cap in response to some blunder made by the hapless Gilligan, I’ll stop. It draws me in every single time. As an aside, I’ve always admired the aforementioned Lovey Howell. How she had the foresight to pack so well for a three-hour tour is a level of preparation to which I can only aspire.
In the Coastal Illustrated feature, we’ve outlined a self-guided tour of downtown Brunswick, whether you’re taking a spin in your boat or car. The easily navigable waterways make arriving in Brunswick by boat within easy reach of all of the coastal islands and mainland marinas as well. Once docked (or parked) downtown, your adventure begins. Traveling by car will get you there more quickly, but it’s my opinion that going by boat will be more scenic, relaxing and worth storing in your memory bank. There’s certainly a lot to eat, drink, see and do in Brunswick – in addition to the items we covered, be on the lookout for popup markets, mural art and other surprises. For more info, see the calendar of downtown events at the end of the feature.
After all that galavanting about, you may want to consider where to lay your head. In our Coastal Home feature, we explore new trends in home design with developer Brett Flanagan of Flanagan Development. Great rooms, home offices and outdoor living spaces are all in vogue, as are luxurious spa-like bathrooms. On the horizon? Wet rooms. Our homes have truly become sanctuaries, and current design trends are reflecting our desire to have more comfort, convenience, and, yes, a touch of poshness around us. And, in his real estate story, reporter Gordon Jackson gives us the scoop on trends from Realtors’ perspectives.
Our columnists are full of wonderful recommendations as always. Horticulturalist Anne Ditmer addresses the cicada boom that will occur nearly everywhere but here. Cary Knapp reviews a heart-wrenching memoir that likens serious illness and the subsequent recovery as similar to feeling the displacement that people new to a place sometimes experience. This book, “Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted” by Sulieka Jaouad, is on my summer reading list for sure. Finally, our mixology expert, Jim Henderson, provides recipes for some time-honored summer refreshers (Mai Tai, anyone?), and gives us the scoop on the pre-mixed cocktails now on the market.
Marjorie Mathieu is featured in our Local Q&A. Retired from Southeast Georgia Health System, Marjorie is president of the Coastal Symphony of Georgia and active in her church. In her downtime, she enjoys cycling on St. Simons Island and dining with friends. In the Realtor Q&A, meet Kelli O’Steen. This busy wife and mom of two active boys feels fortunate to be raising her children in the family-friendly environment of St. Simons Island. She also gives some great advice for those who are pursuing success. In the Affiliate Q&A, Patti Hale is the focus. A mortgage banker, Patti is a Golden Isles native. In her spare time, she and her husband love spending time outdoors, and getting away to Georgia State Parks.
And in Shore Things, Cheri has all the seaworthy items you’ll need for your three-hour tour, whether sightseeing by land or by sea.
There’s a very special event on the horizon – The Coastal Symphony of Georgia will be hosting its annual Cabaret on May 21. This year, “Aloha Cabaret” will be outdoors, in the Atlantic Court at The King and Prince Resort. Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner, Hawaiian entertainment – including traditional dance, singing and fire performances and even a hula lesson. A silent auction will be conducted entirely online, with bidding done by cell phone. Dress is elegant Hawaiian attire.
Don’t forget to check out our Captured pages. I was recently a first-time attendee at two much-loved traditions – Little League Opening Day on St. Simons Island, at the Mallery Street fields, and Albert Fendig’s Plein Air Affair at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. I’m already looking forward to next year!
Get out and enjoy all there is to do in our little corner of the world – but don’t forget to wash your hands. Enjoy the issue.