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A Legacy of Love, A Future of Hope From its beginnings as Boys Estate to the mission of Morningstar today, this campus has remained a place where children find safety, stability, and hope. 1940s
In the 1940s, the former Santo Domingo State Park became the setting for a bold and compassionate vision. In the years surrounding World War II, many children faced profound loss and instability. Among them were boys orphaned or displaced by war, economic hardship, and family crisis. Community leaders, churches, and local supporters believed these children deserved more than temporary shelter—they deserved stability, guidance, responsibility, and a true sense of belonging. Out of that belief, a vision began to take shape.
1946
Among those instrumental in bringing it to life was Ardel Nation, whose leadership and conviction helped lay the foundation for what would become Boys Estate. Alongside generous citizens and faith leaders, he helped transform the property into more than a refuge—it became a place intentionally designed to shape young lives and futures. Cottages rose through the work of many hands, and a small community began to emerge—one grounded in structure, mentorship, shared responsibility, and care. Here, boys tended the grounds, attended school, shared meals, and learned practical skills. In the rhythm of daily life, they slowly rediscovered the steadiness and security many had lost. What began on this land became something far greater than anyone imagined. It was a community built on the belief that every child deserves not to be defined by their past—but given the chance to begin again.
“A community built on the belief that every child deserves the chance to begin again.”
A Legacy That Continued to Grow 1996
In 1996, a new chapter began. Over time, the mission expanded, even as its purpose remained constant. As the needs of children became more complex, the commitment remained the same: to create a place where young people could find safety, belonging, and a path forward. Today, as Morningstar Children & Family Services, the campus continues that legacy in a deeply focused way. Morningstar Children’s Home specializes in caring for Georgia’s foster youth, ages 12–21, with developmental disabilities and complex healthcare needs who have entered foster care due to abuse, neglect, and abandonment. The 45-bed campus serves youth from across Georgia and remains the only residential program in the state dedicated solely to this population. Here, care extends far beyond shelter, offering licensed counseling, structured daily support, education, and medical support tailored to each child’s needs. What began as a safe haven has grown into a place of comprehensive care where healing happens every day. And still, the campus tells the same story. Children laugh in spaces where uncertainty once lingered. Staff walk alongside them—not simply as caregivers, but as steady, trusted adults. In every cottage, classroom, and shared meal, there is quiet, faithful work being done to restore what trauma once interrupted.
TODAY Y
Beyond the Gates, the Story Is Still Being Written This work has never been done alone. From the very beginning, support poured in from both this community and across the state—people coming together to build cottages, care for
Join Us
children, and create something far greater than basic support. That spirit continues today through donors, churches, volunteers, staff, and advocates who believe every child deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive. As our campus celebrates 80 years of service, the responsibility remains clear: to preserve what has been built, to strengthen what is needed, and to ensure that every child who walks through these gates finds home and healing. Because while buildings evolve and generations pass, the purpose of this place remains unchanged.
Join us for f r Dinner Under the Stars on fo October 24 as we honor the legacy that brought us here and come together to create a brighter future fforr every youth in our care. fo
morningstarcfs.org morningstarcfs f .org fs
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
50 SHOOT THE MOON:
Capturing the beloved satellite can prove challenging, but local photographers offer tips to help novices snag these tricky nighttime images.
58 EVER EVOLVING: Renais-
sance man Gary “Gato” Grace has found a new home in the Golden Isles where he shares his many pursuits, from painting and photography to music and fashion design.
66 LOOM LIFE: The Cottage
Weavers of Jekyll Island are continuing
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an ancient tradition each week as they come together to create one-of-a-kind pieces.
74 THE CREATIVE CARTWRIGHTS: Olivia Jane, 13,
and her brother, Dawson, 17, have grown up sharing their love of art and even hosted a joint art exhibition at the Brunswick library.
82 MELDING METAL: Amy Lee, a British transplant, forged a new path in her artistic life when she discovered a new medium — melting pewter to create her pieces.
From Concept ... To A Work Of Art
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COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS 18 COASTAL QUEUE 36 DUE SOUTH 38 NATURE CONNECTION 40 BY DESIGN 42 LIVING WELL 44 MONEY TALKS 46 GAME CHANGERS 48 THE DISH 88 NOISEMAKERS THE RIDER BAND 91 COASTAL SEEN
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A CELEBRATION to savor From day to night, experience the best of Shrimp & Grits Festival with two unforgettable ways to indulge.
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GARDEN PARTY TICKETED EXPERIENCE TIME: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM LOCATION: Morgan Center Lawn As the sun sets, the celebration continues in our exclusive garden. Enjoy Southern-inspired food stations, decadent desserts, handcrafted cocktails, and live music beneath the oaks. Dinner and open bar service are included with your ticket.
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Publisher Editor Proofer
Buff Leavy Lindsey Adkison Heather Murray
Assistant Proofers
Olivia Helms Olivia Marascalco
Advertising Director
Kasey Rowell
Contributing Writers
Al Brown Taylor Cooper Michael Farris Jr. Sam Ghioto Kensley Godbee Olivia Marascalco Ronda Rich
Contributing Photographers
Derrick Davis Taylor Cooper Jennifer Foster Nicolette Tolomeo Germain Sam Ghioto Michael Hall Michelle Holton Steve Kendall Olivia Marascalco Kyle Morgan Catherine Schwartz Gavin Sellers Aric Sparmann Jim Squires
Contributing Designers
Stacey Nichols Donte Nunnally Terry Wilson
Golden Isles Magazine is published six times per year by Brunswick News Publishing Company
28 Market Street Suite 124 Saint Simons Island, GA
(912) 638-5100
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To subscribe online to Golden Isles Magazine, go to goldenislesmagazine.com/subscribe About the Cover: This image of a osprey atop a tree with the moon rise represents both the issue’s theme, Shoot the Moon, and links to the edition’s photography feature. It also offers a spooky, Halloween feel. It was photographed by Kyle Morgan.
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Submissions Golden Isles Magazine is in need of talented contributors. Unsolicited queries and submissions of art and stories are welcome. Please include an email address and telephone number. Submit by email to the editor, Lindsey Adkison: ladkison@goldenislesmagazine.com or by mail to 3011 Altama Ave, Brunswick. Only work accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will be returned.
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All content is copyright of Golden Isles Magazine, a publication of Brunswick News Publishing Company. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without express written permission from the publisher. We have sought to ensure accuracy and completeness of the content herein, but neither Golden Isles Magazine nor the publisher assumes responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or other inconsistencies, including those related to quotations. We reserve the right to refuse advertising. All advertisements appearing herein are accepted and published on the representation that the advertiser is properly authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. All ads are paid advertisements and/or gifts given as part of a contractual agreement regarding Brunswick News Publishing Company. Neither Golden Isles Magazine nor the publisher is responsible for any statements, claims, or representations made by contributing writers, columnists, or photographers. Golden Isles Magazine and the publisher are also not responsible for anyone’s reliance on the content included in the publication. All projects described in this publication are for private, noncommercial use only. No right for commercial use or exploitation is given or implied.
E D I TO R’ S NOT E
SHOOTING
the Moon
T
hose of us born in the good old 1900s remember the allure of the inspirational poster. Whether it was something you snagged from the beloved book fair (and I seriously
LOVED the book fair) or found upon entering
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a classroom, it was always something that sparked innocent ambition in little hearts. I distinctly remember a handmade poster that adorned Ms. Sanders’ fourth-grade walls. “Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” For nine-year-old Lindsey, that message struck a chord. It was about reframing mistakes and appreciating different types of “success,” even if you don’t necessarily hit the mark. It’s most
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often attributed to the American author and minister Norman Vincent Peale, who wrote The Power of Positive Thinking. But the point is — the effort proves its own
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that less-than-stellar math test.
It also came to mind recently when I was thinking of titles for this issue. We knew we wanted to offer a photography feature with the moon, embracing both the artsy and spooky (it is our October issue, y’all) twist. So, the title “Shoot the Moon” had a double meaning. We’re literally showcasing images of the moon while also celebrating the talents of other local artists who aim high and dream big. That certainly applies to our cover story, the photography feature I’d planned. We chatted with some of our favorite local photogs about how they capture the much-loved satellite
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(hint: it takes more than a cell phone camera). We continued that theme with our feature on Dawson and Olivia Jane Cartwright. These St. Simons siblings have developed their own artistic styles but have continued to
support one another throughout their artistic endeavors. We caught up with these creative kiddos at their home to hear about their processes and plans for the future. Speaking of plans, Gary “Gato” Grace is always full of them. The artist, musician, and fashion designer has dedicated his life to creating. Now, he’s looking ahead to launching an exclusive scarf and tie line, along with his many other pursuits. We also stopped in to meet with artist Amy Lee, who uses metal to make her truly unique designs. And, last but not least, Olivia Marascalco, our summer intern from UGA, visited the Jekyll Island Fiber Arts Guild to watch members weave their projects and bring them to life. In their own way, each artist in our features seeks to do the same thing — aim high, go big, and “shoot the moon.” You never know unless you try, right? We hope you enjoy their stories and that they will inspire you to take on your own artistic journey. And aim high.
Creatively yours — Lindsey
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Word On The Street Cover Susan Fyfe Molnar: What a beautiful photo!! Amazing colors and such a wonderful representation of our coastal area. Terra Hendley Winslett: Nice!!!
Your reactions sent to us by emails, posts, & tweets
TIME TO GET SOCIAL
Nicole Davis: It’s stunning!
facebook.com/goldenislesmag
Susan Garrett: Stunning! Can’t wait to pick up my copy.
instagram.com/goldenislesmag
Annaliese Kondo: Swoon-worthy photo for sure!
welding wire into that boat to get it started 20 years ago! Glad Capt. Cameron Ako is keeping it going strong. Christine Thompson: Love the photos!
Forward Brunswick Farmer’s Market @brunswickmercantile: Barbara provides much of my product I use for cooking and sauces! She’s one of the best at @forwardbrunswick and @discoverbrunswick farmer’s markets located at Mary Ross Waterfront Park.
twitter.com/goldenislesmag If you prefer to send us your comments by email, contact Editor Lindsey Adkison at
Chuck Carter: Hope you printed extra copies. These are going to fly off the shelves.
ladkison@goldenislesmagazine.com. Anything posted to our social media accounts or emailed directly to the editor will be considered for publication. Comments may be edited for clarity or grammar.
Sally Chao: This definitely captures your title, “Golden Isles Magazine.” Beautiful! @brownbuttershoppe: Stunning!
Susan Fyfe Molnar: Wonderful! The Lady Jane is one of the great things about Brunswick. I’m glad to see it get recognition. Susan Garrett: The Lady Jane was always a “must do” whenever our three grandsons came to visit with family and friends. I loved these photos and the story … reminded me of the fun times on the LJ.
Trawling with the Lady Jane Rhonda Barlow: Amazing! 16
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Anthony Stubelek: My family and I put a lot of blood, sweat, and
Chasing the Wind William Rogers: Thank you so much, Lindsey! Getting to help teach those sailors is incredible. Carlos Poysky: Thank you for putting the spotlight on our cause, Wind Sports for Wounded Warriors. Wayne Rainey: Great photos! Thanks so very much for sharing! Turtle Power Terri Dotty Bailey: How can I read it? Or where is the closest place to pick up the magazine near the hosptial? Sue Smith: Coming to visit the last week of July.
912.265.8652 • 1510 Newcastle St, Downtown Brunswick •
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17
Q AN INFORMATIVE LINEUP OF THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE GOLDEN ISLES
ACS G AL A TO
Marry Glam, Charity WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON | PHOTOS BY GAVIN SELLERS
T
he stories are what stick with Bentley Kaufman the most. They are the whispered worries of mothers and fathers, husbands and wives. In addition to the strain, all of them share a commonality — they’re battling cancer. Kaufman, along with other members of the local American Cancer Society Victory Board, connected with the families they’ve come to know through the charity. And the way the community supports those in need, she says, is always inspiring. “If I have learned one thing since being involved with this organization, it’s that this community rallies around its own. When someone is struggling, everyone comes together to help, especially with a diagnosis as serious and life-changing as cancer,” she says. This year, Kaufman is serving as the Vic-
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tory Board’s president. In that role, she’s helped the group transition into its new incarnation — the foundation. “We officially launched the Victory Board Foundation early this year, in 2026. Our mission for the foundation is to help bridge the gap between greater nonprofit efforts and the smallest handout from a friend. As board members, we realized that there was a huge need to help families affected by cancer in so many different ways, mainly those that start at home. Cancer is specific to every patient; every treatment is different; one constant, however, is the same: the cost,” she says. “Our goal with the Victory Board Foundation is to be a resource for any patient, caregiver, or family member in any stage of cancer. Whether that looks like diagnosis, treatment, remission, or grief, we want the community to see that we are dedicated to being there at every step. We are still, of course, partnering
with the American Cancer Society, and the foundation has just become an additive bonus to fill the local needs that need to be met.” Since becoming a formal foundation, the Victory Board has done just that. Their work has covered everything from laundry services to house cleaning and meal trains. They also continue to stock their Victory Board Patient Pantry, which features medication, socks, and coloring books. “The patients receiving treatment in the cancer care center are able to access (the pantry) at any time. We were also able to start taking small applications from patients currently at the center to help with any financial bills they might need help with covering during their treatment,” she says. “With the support of our sponsors and donations from last year, we were also honored to gift the Nunnally House at
the Southeast Georgia Health System with a Meal Voucher Grant on behalf of the VB Foundation. This grant gives the patients and families staying at Nunnally House two hot meals a day during their stay.” But their biggest contribution is likely their latest. This fall, they’re unveiling the Victory Board Insurance Fund. Kaufman says this step will help further ease the financial burden, which often remains untouched by insurance companies. “Chris Locke with SGHS told us that he has had patients come to the cancer care center and decline treatment for their diagnosis to not put their family in financial ruin. It’s a heartbreaking story that unfortunately has happened too many times. Hearing this, we knew we needed to help,” she says. “The insurance fund will help access and maintain the insurance coverage needed for their treatments, bridging the gap that is not fully covered.” Of course, in order to provide these much-needed dollars that support cancer patients and their families, the Victory Board has to fill its coffers. Since 1969, they’ve done that by hosting a special event. It began as a luncheon
fashion show fundraiser among friends. Over the decades, it’s transformed into a must-attend seasonal soirée. Each year, five co-chairs take over the planning process to create the annual theme and to organize related events. This year, Cary Anne Chambers is one of those at the helm. She says that the event will be inspired by the elegance and escapism of Palm Royale — a celebration of vibrant color, timeless glamour, and coastal sophistication. “Drawing inspiration from the iconic resort lifestyle of the 1960s and 70s, the evening will blend lush tropical details, layered patterns, beautiful florals, and a warm sense of hospitality to create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and joyful,” Chambers says. “The inspiration came from wanting to design an event that feels immersive and transportive — something that gives guests an unforgettable evening while still feeling approachable and celebratory. We loved the idea of pairing classic country club elegance with playful Palm Beach influences, creating a setting that feels refined, colorful, and full of life.” The American Cancer Society’s Victory
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2026
Board Gala will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. on September 18 at Frederica Golf Club on St. Simons Island. There will be food, drinks, entertainment, and silent and live auctions. The co-chairs have also tapped a watercolor artist who will create portraits of the attendees onsite.
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“We’re bringing a fresh energy to the gala this year with a playful Palm Royale-inspired atmosphere that exudes coastal glamour and effortless sophistication. One of our newest additions is Fore the Cure, an interactive golf simulator experience where guests will have the chance to compete for an exciting grand prize,” Chambers says. “The evening is designed to feel both elegant and fun, with vibrant tropical details, immersive décor moments, and a few surprises woven throughout the night. We’re especially excited to showcase an incredible collection of original artwork in this year’s silent auction, featuring pieces that feel thoughtful, collectible, and one-of-akind. From statement experiences to playful touches, we hope guests leave feeling inspired, entertained, and deeply connected to the mission behind the evening.” Chambers has also taken an extra step. As an interior designer and owner of A Pop of Colour Interiors, she’s creating a special dollhouse, the Petite Palm Cottage. “Each room will be a designer haven, embracing the theme’s signature sense of opulence, indulgence, and impeccable style while blending coastal sophistication with whimsical flair,” Chambers says. “Some of the most respected names in the design industry (such as Gracie) are partnering with A Pop of Colour Interiors to contribute materials, furnishings, and inspiration, transforming the project into a true work of luxurious miniature art.” The creative cottage and all of the plans in place only aid the insurance funds. Each dollar goes back to supporting the mission.
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“The more successful our event is, the more we are able to put towards the insurance fund, and the more patients we are able to help. It’s a chain reaction when it comes to this kind of financial support,” Kaufman says. “I’m especially proud of our five co-chairs this year; they have been working hard for months on this event and have the absolute best intentions, and it shows.” • The American Cancer Society’s Victory Board Gala, Gala Royale, will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. September 18 at Frederica Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Tickets are $200 per person. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit acsvictoryboard.org.
Going with the F.L.O.W.: Program pays hommage to those lost
WORDS BY KENSLEY GODBEE | PROVIDED PHOTOS
I
n the Golden Isles, water shapes everyday life. All day long, kayaks and paddle boards can be spotted from the sandy docks, leaving their ripples under the glittering sun.
Still, hidden underneath this beauty lies an unfortunate danger, one the Rev. Alan Akridge could no longer avoid. The priest at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Brunswick, Akridge, like so many others, felt the growing weight of lives lost to drowning. “Almost everyone I came across has a story. I was tired of feeling helpless,” he says. That revelation prompted an intimate conversation among friends that soon sparked the beginnings of the community-wide nonprofit program, For the Love of Water (F.L.O.W. SSI).
Both Akridge and Rogelio Quintinar, a longtime friend and fellow church member, knew they wanted to take action. It wasn’t until they met Cristi Kavanaugh that the vision for F.L.O.W. SSI finally took shape. “Because of previous community events, I saw how talented Cristi was at planning and organizing. After our discussion over dinner, we realized she was the missing piece,” says Akridge. “It seemed like every third person I’d meet had a kayak in their basement. We all figured we could encourage them to dust them off for a good cause.” Since then, the trio has expanded into an impressive team that continues to make its mark on the community. Combining a natural love of water with local water safety
SEPTEMB ER/OC TO BE R 2026
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initiatives, F.L.O.W. SSI participants gather at Gould’s Inlet once a year for a 5-mile trek ending at Village Creek Landing. This non-competitive paddleboarding excursion is open to everyone, but kayaks or canoes are often recommended for those with beginner-level paddle skills.
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After completing the journey, participants gather for a casual celebration focused on fellowship and remembrance. With live music, entertainment, backyard-grill style hotdogs, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, the small gathering is open to all members of the community. Participants should note that their food will be provided free of charge alongside complimentary souvenirs from local sponsors. Both the paddleboarding event and the party honor those who have lost their lives to drowning while encouraging more neighbors to join the initiative and support water safety awareness. In their first year, F.L.O.W. SSI partnered with the Boys and Girls Club to fund swimming lessons for families and children who may not have had access to said resources otherwise. “By providing swimming instruction and communication throughout the community, our ultimate goal is that no one drowns,” Akridge said.
Dottie Clark
Ella Cart
Roz Harrell
Barbara Northrup
Original Fine Art Created by Local Artists
Join Us! Open House & Reception
Ella Cart • Dottie Clark • Trish Rugaber • Ken Wallin • Hang Le Oetjen Thursday, July 27, 4-7pm Louise Hooper • Derrell Anglyn • Roz Harrell
Dina Deason 3305 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island
Ella Cart • Dottie Clark • Trish Rugaber 912.268.4761 artists@arttrends.gallery OpenHilliard Wed.–Sat. 10:00–4 :00 and byNorthrup appointment Joan • Barbara Shop online at•arttrends.gallery Dina Deason Bettina Dickson Rusher 22
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Recently, F.L.O.W. SSI has developed and nurtured an ongoing relationship with SOAR — Social Opportunities & Active Recreation — to enrich neighbors with cognitive disabilities. “Unfortunately, children with developmental disabilities are more prone to drowning,” explains Akridge. Through this partnership, F.L.O.W. SSI works to spread awareness and funding for those interested in the SOAR Swim Program each summer. The camp promotes independent movement in the water, so everyone in the Golden Isles can safely enjoy the region’s aquatic adventures.
Behind the scenes, Akridge and his F.L.O.W. SSI team are always adding sponsors and partners to their list, with the prospect of doubling their impact in the near future seemingly within reach. As 100% of net proceeds already go directly back to the community, Akridge says he can’t imagine what sort of benefit this opportunity may entail.
registration makes it easy for anyone, and fees rise as the event date approaches, so Akridge encourages all interested parties to sign up as soon as they can.
Even though the event takes place once a year, registration is open to the public many months in advance. Online
Akridge hopes the initiative’s impact can soon reach beyond the Golden Isles region. “Everyone here shares a similar
This year marks the 4th annual F.L.O.W. SSI event. It will be held from noon to 5:30 p.m. September 6.
concern. We’re just trying to aggregate the energy that’s already there,” says Akridge. He believes F.L.O.W SSI provides a necessary moment for everyone to come together and make a lasting change. “I’m absolutely humbled,” he says. • For more information on the organization and how to sign up, visit paddlesignup. com and search for FLOW SSI.
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T
o the plain-seeing, observing eye, anyone could easily describe Randy Siegel as a man of many talents. He’s an artist, a writer, a performer, a sculptor, the list goes on and on. But Siegel would tell you something a little different. “All of us have innate gifts. And one of mine is the ability to be able to hold space,” he says. Now, if you’re anything like me, your first thought is, ‘Ok, what does that mean?’ Over the phone, Siegel chuckled as he explained.
Holding Space Randy Siegel creates space of acceptance and unity WORDS BY OLIVIA MARASCALCO | PROVIDED PHOTOS
“To hold space is to visualize the best for people’s circumstances in the world,” he says. “To do that, you create a safe, supportive, and loving space where all feel seen, understood, loved, and celebrated for all that they are.” That’s what he aims to accomplish with his four-part installation at Glynn Visual Arts. Siegel’s exhibition will feature paintings, a sculpture, a conceptual art piece, and a performance. The first part, his paintings, range from a vibrant vase of flowers to an allegorical collage of mythological figures. No matter what it is, Siegel intends for the paintings to act as a portal. “Whatever it might be, my hope is that it signals in folks something that they know and sometimes don’t recognize,” he says optimistically. “The whole goal is that, in some small way, that it is a portal for folks to sense the sacred that’s within us and all around us all the time.” The sculptures that encompass the second part of his exhibit are not what one might expect. They were not chiseled, molded, or carved. They are woven, sewn, and knotted. They are made of fabric, strings, beads, and things Siegel finds in nature. “A lot of times, I don’t know what I’m doing until it’s done,” he says. “For me, the process of art creating is far more important than the product.” Though he didn’t begin crafting the sculptures with any particular goal or message in mind, he still has hopes for what they might represent to viewers and how they might resonate with them.
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“My hope is these bindings kind of hold an emotional tension but at the same time, a tenderness,” he says. “That they’re expressing this yearning for love and compassion through texture and form.” Clearly, one does not attend Siegel’s exhibition solely to examine art. Rather, one attends to examine oneself by way of how the art makes one feel. That’s how Siegel intends to hold space for audiences. This idea might best be displayed in the third part of his installation, the conceptual piece titled “Unanswered Prayers.” “The concept involves a bubble gum machine and an altar, and participants will be invited to write their prayers and put them into the gum machine.” The idea behind this piece lies in the fact that occasionally our prayers go unanswered. So Siegel created a space where anyone can come to an altar, write a prayer, and then put it into the globe of the gumball machine. There, space is being held for them. “So often, we view prayer as a gum machine. We ask whatever we believe for something, we put a coin in there, then expect to receive it,” he diligently explains. “But what happens to those unanswered prayers, and can we, instead of expecting a transaction, look at prayer not being so transactional and instead look at prayer as the ability to hold space?”
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T R E AT YOU R S E L F
The fourth medium that Siegel employs to tie things all together is a performance. It is inspired by Marina Abramovic’s groundbreaking experiential piece, “The Artist is Present.” “There will be a roped-off section with two chairs facing each other, and guests will be invited one at a time to come sit in the chair for however long they want,” he diligently explains. “I will be looking at them in the eyes and I will be visualizing their best selves and their best lives and really looking and appreciating that divine spark within them.” Siegel’s main hope is that people who attend the exhibition leave not only having seen what holding space looks like but also having experienced it and felt it. Glynn Visual Arts has not seen an installation as conceptual as Siegel’s. Kari Morris, executive director of GVA, is looking forward to bringing a new element of art to the Golden Isles.
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“This is a bit outside of the box for us. It’s something you might find in more of a metropolitan area. We’re very happy to offer this experience,” she says. Morris explained that Siegel’s exhibit isn’t just special because of its uniqueness, but also its ability to bring about unity in an era of disunity. “Art transcends differences. It breaks down barriers. People come together over creativity and expression and those things go away. Things like age, race, socioeconomics, all of those things don’t matter when you’re coming together through art,” she says. And that is exactly what Siegel set out to do. “My greatest wish is that, in some way, people will leave this exhibit with a reminder of this unseen thread that really binds us all,” he says.
Loop draws local art lovers downtown WORDS BY OLIVIA MARASCALCO | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HALL
S
hayne Woodard remembers a time when downtown Brunswick was a collection of shuttered shops and empty streets.
“I came through as a FLETC student in ‘04, and like half the town down here was literally boarded in the windows,” Woodard says. Years later, that all changed. “When I got stationed here in 2012, about half of this was coming back to life,” he says. When Woodard opened his antique shop, Black Sheep
Pickers, on Newcastle in 2016, he didn’t realize he was getting a front-row seat to the rapid growth that downtown Brunswick would experience. “In 2021, 2022, it just took off like fire,” he says. Being in the midst of the historic district’s rebirth, Woodard decided that getting his shop involved was in his best interest. He started with the frenetic fun that is First Friday, then jumped into the idyllic First Thursday’s Art Loop. “It’s something different. It’s not the crazy First Friday
SEPTEMB ER/OC TO BE R 2026
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scene. It is a walk around, and it’s calm, and you can look at some art, and go to Hootenanny’s and listen to some music,” Woodard says.
can come in and appreciate a variety of arts. The Brunswick Art Loop has already become a fresh and impactful environment that is boosting Brunswick’s art scene.
Now a year old, the Brunswick Art Loop began as a part of First Friday. A few months into its start, Heather Heath, executive director of Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association, decided that the arts needed a designated day away from the hubbub of First Friday.
“I think that Brunswick has always had a really thriving art scene,” Heath says. “What we’re trying to do is continue and expand that.”
“Visual Arts is a pretty tough business to be in because it’s a solo thing,” she sympathetically explains. “So giving artists the opportunity to showcase their talents, they’re always about that.”
Yolanda Smalls, who has participated in the Art Loop since its beginning, says that she’s seen it gain traction and that she can’t wait for more people to enjoy it the way she has.
Now, on the first Thursday of each month, participating stores and exhibits stay open a little later so that guests
“It is growing because more people participate now. I’m looking forward to more people participating and
G O L D E N I S LES
And expand, it has.
really like having the artist more engaged,” she says. “It’s important because if we don’t show up, then they will stop doing it.” Smalls’ vibrant floral skirt flowed as she carefully examined not only paintings but also china, stunning antique furniture, and old books in Woodard’s shop.
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“Honestly, I feel like any time people do art, it should be on display because it’s your creative brain,” she says. “And when the creative part of your brain goes off, you’re just happier.” Usually, around eight locations — give or take — participate every month, and they all offer a unique experience. Hootenanny’s provides a stage for aspiring musicians to bring their originals, SoGlo Theater and the Ritz Theater host exhibits for those who want to share their artwork, and Black Sheep Pickers has a beautiful collection of unique antiques that anyone can enjoy.
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It’s a wonderful display of how vast the arts are. “It opens people’s eyes to different arts that they wouldn’t have seen,” Smalls says. Experiencing fresh art and innovative creators is part of the reason she’s been a regular attendee of the Art Loop. She has a great appreciation for what she’s been able to see so far that could only be experienced there. “I love that it gives me the opportunity to go places I haven’t been. And I love looking at art,” Smalls says. “Especially, visiting artists.”
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Perhaps the most inspiring thing the Art Loop accomplishes is its ability to build community. Art lovers, enthusiasts, or just people out for a fun time can come together on common ground to celebrate and appreciate the art around them. “This is about focusing on the arts and the artist and giving them the chance to be front and center,” Heath says. “We don’t want it to be overwhelmed or not have people come in to appreciate it.” • The Brunswick Art Loop is held from 5 to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month. 912-638-5161 • seaislandproperties.com 351 Sea Island Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 SEPTEMB ER/OC TO BE R 2026
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Q Around
the Town September
September 3 The Brunswick Art Loop will return from 5 to 7 p.m. along Newcastle and surrounding streets downtown. At the Ritz Theatre’s Wilcox Gallery, there will be an exhibition featuring the work of artist Catherine Durrett of Georgia. It will be on display through September 25. Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday. For details, visit goldenislesarts.org. September 4 The Brunswick Downtown Development Authority will host First Friday, a monthly block party in downtown Brunswick. It will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. along Newcastle and surrounding streets. Shops, galleries, and restaurants will stay open later, host entertainment, and offer specials. Jekyll Island Club Resort will host Paint and Sip, a step-bystep instructional painting class that offers your choice of beverage. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Prices begin at $70 per canvas. For details, visit jekyllclub.com. September 5 Sea Island will host its annual Southern Grown Festival, sponsored by Garden & Gun. The multi-day event will feature exclusive events for resort guests. There will also be a public concert featuring country music star Wynonna Judd at 7 p.m. at the Sea Island Beach Club on Sea Island. General admission tickets are $95 per person. VIP tickets are $350 per person. For details, visit seaisland.com
Light and can be bought at the Lighthouse Museum. Cash will not be accepted upon entry. For further questions, visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org. September 12 The Miracle League will hold a 5K and Fun Run to fund an adaptive baseball field that offers inclusive recreation for children and adults of all mental and physical abilities. The 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. at the North Glynn Recreation Complex, 1001 Mansfield Street, Brunswick. Admission for the 5K is $30, and the Fun Run is $15. For details, visit miracleleague.com. Jekyll Island Club Resort will hold a Candle Making Workshop where attendees will create custom scented candles and learn about the art of fragrance. The workshop will go from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Prices begin at $65 per candle. For more details, visit jekyllclub.com. Grateful Cats and Canines Allies and Supporters (GCAS) will host Shelter Sip & Stroll from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. along Newcastle Street in downtown Brunswick. Various restaurants will participate. A wristband is $30, which allows access to food and drink specials. Check in and wristband pickup will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Proceeds benefit Glynn County Animal Services. For details, visit gcasallies.networkforgood.com. September 18 Golden Isles Live! will host a concert featuring Piano Men at 7:30 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. The father-son duo, Terry and Nick Davies, will perform covers of Billy Joel and Elton John. Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for students and children. For more information, visit goldenisleslive.org. The American Cancer Society’s Victory Board will host its annual Gala Royale from 6 to 10 p.m. at Frederica Golf Club on St. Simons Island. There will be silent and live auctions, a live painter, and entertainment. Individual tickets are $200 each. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit acsvictoryboard.org. September 19 Glynn County will hold an open house and tour of the Selden Park Headmaster’s Home, 323 Old Jesup Rd., Brunswick. Tour time is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and admission is free. For more information, visit glynncounty.org.
September 5 and 6 The St. Simons Antique Show and Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Postell Park on St. Simons Island. There will be a variety of items available.
September 26 and 27 Glynn Visual Arts will host its 57th Annual Under the Oaks Art Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Postell Park, near the Pier Village on St. Simons Island. Regional artists and artisans will display and sell a wide range of items. It is free. For more information, visit glynnvisualarts.org.
September 6 The Coastal Georgia Historical Society is hosting The Sensational Sounds of Motown as part of its Little Light Music Concert series. The concert will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the oceanfront lawn beneath the lighthouse, 610 Beachview Drive., St. Simons Island. Tickets are $20 for adults and free for children under 12 and Keepers of the
The Island Players will stage “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” at 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; and at 3:30 p.m. Sundays. All performances will be held at the St. Simons Theatre at the Casino, 530 Beachview Dr., St Simons Island. Season tickets and individual show tickets can be purchased online at theislandplayers.com
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OCtober Through October The Live Oaks Garden Club is hosting its 27th annual Poinsettia Sale. The club is offering red, white, and pink poinsettias and jingle bells plants in 8-inch foil pots. The cost is $20. The sale begins October 2 and runs through November 14th. The plants must be picked up from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 4 at Community Church, 2700 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. Orders may be placed on the website at logcpoinsettias.square.site. October 1 The Brunswick Art Loop will return from 5 to 7 p.m. along Newcastle and surrounding streets downtown. At the Ritz Theatre’s Wilcox Gallery, there will be an exhibition featuring the Contemporary Arts Alliance of Georgia. It will be on display through Nov. 20. Golden Isles Arts and Humanities will host the Six One Five Collective, a band that shares music in the spirit of Little Big Town, Old Dominion, and Fleetwood Mac, at 7:30 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre in Brunswick. For tickets or to learn more, visit goldenislesarts.org. October 2 The Brunswick Downtown Development Authority will host First Friday, a monthly block party in downtown Brunswick. It will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. along Newcastle and surrounding streets. Shops, galleries, and restaurants will stay open later, host entertainment, and offer specials. Jekyll Island Club Resort will host Paint and Sip, a step-bystep instructional painting class that offers a choice of beverage. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Prices begin at $70 per canvas. For details, visit jekyllclub.com.
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October 2 to 4 The Island Players will stage “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” at 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; and at 3:30 p.m. Sundays. All performances will be held at the St. Simons Theatre at the Casino, 530 Beachview Dr., St Simons Island. Season tickets and individual show tickets can be purchased online, theislandplayers.com. October 3 The Southeast Georgia Hospital Foundation will host the 4th Annual SMASH Breast Cancer Triples Tennis Tournament from 9 a.m. to noon followed by a bake sale and raffle/ silent auction, held from noon to 2 p.m. at the American Legion building in Gasgoigne Bluff on St. Simons Island. There will also be food trucks. October 10 Jekyll Island Club Resort will hold a Candle Making Workshop where attendees will create custom scented candles and
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learn about the art of fragrance. The workshop will go from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Prices begin at $65 per candle. For more details, visit jekyllclub.com. October 17 Glynn County will hold an open house and tour of the Selden Park Headmaster’s Home, 323 Old Jesup Road, Brunswick. Tour time is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free. For more information, visit glynncounty.org. October 22 to 25 Golden Isles Film Festival will be held at the Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. There will be film showings, panels, and vendors. Ticket prices range from $20 to $500, depending on your selected package. For more details, visit goldenislesfilmfestival.org. October 23 and 24 Glynn Visual Arts will host its Wine Festival at the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, 201 Arnold Street, St. Simons Island, and at the McKinnon-St. Simons Airport at the Posh Carts Hangar, 130 Gary L. Moore Ct., St. Simons Island. There will be a VIP wine tasting and auction from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the King and Prince on October 23. Tickets are $150 per person. On October 24, the grand tasting event will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the McKinnon-St. Simons Airport. The cost is $100. For more information, visit ssiwinefestival.com or glynnvisualarts.org.
Precision in Every Detail. Scan the QR code or call to learn more. (912) 274-3388
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The Jekyll Island Authority will hold its annual Shrimp and Grits Festival in the Jekyll Island historic District. There will be food, craft vendors, and entertainment. It is free, but the island’s parking fee increases by $5 over the weekend. For more information, visit jekyllisland.com. October 24 Helping Hugs for Haiti will host its annual Fête for Haiti from 6 to 9 p.m in the parish hall of St. William Parish, 2300 Frederica Rd., St. Simons Island. There will be a dinner and a silent auction. For details and tickets, visit helpinghugsinc.org. MorningStar will hold its Dinner Under the Stars fundraiser from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at 1 Youth Estate, Brunswick. Tickets are $150 per person. For details or to purchase tickets, visit morningstarcfs.org.
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Facts
J U ST T H E
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WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON AND KARI MORRIS | PROVIDED PHOTOS
The St. Simons Wine Festival G
lynn Visual Arts (GVA) has been a community hub for more than 70 years. And while it’s always been a home to experts in various mediums — painting, pottery, and sketching — it’s recently added a new and unfamiliar category: the art of the wine tasting.
The wine festival boasts 70 Vino Volunteers each year. They work hard to transform the 10,000 square foot airport hangar for the event.
For the past two years, GVA has hosted the St. Simons Island Wine Festival. The event, returning October 23 and 24, is held at both the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort and at the McKinnon-St. Simons Airport. Ticket packages vary and are available at ssiwinefestival.com/buy-tickets. To learn more about the numerical side of the event, read on:
$128,000 $128,000 — That’s how much the event has raised in the past two years. All of the proceeds from the event are allocated to arts and education in the Golden Isles, including Glynn Visual Arts, The Betty Oliver Scholarship, and the College of Coastal Georgia Foundation.
50-60
That is correct temperature
red wine. The festiº tovalserve keeps theirs on ice.
40%
In 2026, GVA’s education beneficiary is Golden Isles College and Career Academy Foundation (GICCA). Roughly 40% of Glynn County public high school students engage with GICCA for workforce development during their high school experience.
17,681
That’s the number steps per person, per day for two days of setting up and hosting the Grand Tasting. That’s about 8 miles per day – an unexpected healthy side effect of tasting wine.
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11
There will be 11 artists providing live art demos for entertainment.
2
Unbelievably, only two of the official SSI Wine Glasses were broken from 575 used.
28
GVA’s wine festival is aided by 28 financial sponsors, from area business owners to individuals.
300
More than 300 wine labels, which hail from all over the world, will be available. The bottles are produced on five continents and in 15 countries including Italy, France, Lebanon, Greece, and Slovenia.
$32,250
What are you celebrating this season?
The festival’s 65 auction lots total $32,250. Items up for grabs include rare wines, original fine art, travel excursions, local golf, dining, and recreation.
3,000 More than 3,000 small plates of food were consumed at the 2025 Grand Tasting, highlighting nine local culinary leaders. From beef short ribs with red wine sauce to truffle popcorn, these salty and savory bites accentuate the wines.
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DUE SOUTH nalism career as a sports writer. A few know that I am the only woman to cover SEC football full-time. Occasionally, another woman popped in to write a feature but that didn’t happen often. At Coach Dooley’s funeral, recently-retired assistant AD of Sports Information (and school historian), Claude Felton, told me in front of Tink and a couple of others, “You’re still the only woman to cover SEC football full-time.”
I was stunned. That was 35 years ago. When I regained my speech, I asked, “You mean I hold the record?”
When the Best Team Loses
R
WORDS BY RONDA RICH
memorable games. Claude would take the sports reporters to the sideline in home: the South. He heard us talk about SEC football so long that he believed we exaggerated about everyone wearing their school colors and moving in droves toward the stadium, faces grim, while many stumbled from too many beers at the tailgate.
hear someone mention the Geor-
was speechless. Coach Dooley and
gia-Florida game. Once, a friend said,
Barbara Dooley invited us to their suite
“My daughter is getting married and
for a Georgia game. Barbara, always
the groom’s parents are insisting on the
beloved, was being waved through the
weekend of the Georgia-Florida game.
parking road to her special space — 30
I’m to my wits’ end. I can’t make his
feet from the gate. The guard greeted
mother understand.”
her cheerfully and waved us to her spot. I had to go back for Tink who was still staring at the sea of red and black.
pered, “They’re Yankees.”
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G O L D E N I S LES
a dress as usual, I was standing 40 feet from kicker Kevin Butler who had been brought in to make an impossible field goal. Clemson was number 2 in the nation and a recent national champion. The Tigers were leading by two points
courageous. He had seen Kevin kick the ball 60 yards in practice but never in a game. Standing close, I watched Dooley call Kevin over and speak seriously. Kevin tightly smiled, put on his helmet, and ran out to participate in the last play of the game. Sanford Stadium grew strangely quiet and Clemson’s coach Danny Ford watched grimly, shaking his head and pacing. No one thought he could make it except for Kevin Butler and Vince
“I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said.
Yankee who stopped off in Los Angeles for 35 years before coming to his real
the fourth quarter. Wearing heels and
with 11 seconds to go. Vince Dooley was Then, with his own eyes, he saw. He
I instantly understood. My husband is a
hold it.”
During those couple of years, I saw
Rarely am I on the islands that I don’t
She leaned across the table and whis-
He grinned. “You set the record and you
Dooley. Kevin’s foot came for the ball, connected, and the football sailed high
Many of you know I started my jour-
across the blue sky, all the players look-
ing upward while women covered their
Those Texas players towered over Georgia
mouths and some men covered their eyes.
and outweighed them by a couple of
That kick didn’t just barely make it over the
Longhorn cattle. There was no chance
That day I shall remember always: The
goalpost. It made it so good that it was
that Georgia could win, so we were all
best doesn’t always win. I now go into a
really 61 yards. It remains the longest kick
prepared for it.
situation or to pitch a project thinking that I
in Bulldog history, helping to earn Butler an
playoffs were instituted).
could possibly outwit the best. Sometimes,
eventual draft call to join the champion
The first major lesson I learned from sports
Chicago Bears.
happened that icy cold day in Dallas. Nei-
my competition stumbles.
ther team could manage a touchdown.
And, just like Georgia on that remarkably
The other game that I will carry with me
For three and a half quarters, all scores
cold day in Texas, I win.
always is the 1984 Cotton Bowl when the
came from field goals. Texas fumbled a
seventh-ranked Bulldogs met with the
punt while Georgia’s Gary Moss recovered
number-two ranked Texas Longhorns. I was
it then tossed it to quarterback John Last-
in Dallas for a week, wearing seven new
inger, who ran 17 yards for a touchdown.
beautiful outfits that Mama had sewn for me, each with matching heels and bags.
Georgia won. Dooley was once again a
Every morning at 11 a.m., we had a press
hero. Fred Akers was fired, because if the
conference with the coaches — Dooley
Longhorns had won, they would have
and Texas’ well-dressed, mannerly Fred
captured the national championship
Akers. Each coach brought in one of their
since number-one ranked Nebraska lost
key players, oh, my.
to Miami, handing the Hurricanes their first national championship (this was before the
Ronda Rich
Welcome Home.
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N AT U R E C O N N E CT I O N
Marsh to the Future Part IV
I
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY SAM GHIOTO
*Editor’s note: This is the fourth installment of a multi-part series.
In the months following Dad’s passing in late 2019, I thought the way forward was to push through. I began taking on any opportunity that presented itself to me at the College of Coastal Georgia. In the spring semester of 2020, I completely burned out. Everything slowed, and all those feelings that I pushed away came back violently. During March and April 2020, my chest swelled, and I became incredibly lost. I found myself in the midst of a crisis: do I follow
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G O L D E N I S LES
the call to go to graduate school for
dered what they all looked like.
psychology, or do I pursue my dream of owning a photography and filmmaking
A DETOUR
business?
Dad’s passing and COVID shifted my plans away from transferring colleges. I
Yet, I had no clue how to come out of
stayed locally and felt like I was missing
the depths of the darkness I faced. I
something. I began traveling more. I
began procrastinating on schoolwork.
hiked in the mountains in North Georgia,
Everything pointed me toward being
searched for surf in North Florida, and
outside. That summer, I bought a surf-
visited some friends near Glacier Na-
board and taught myself how to surf.
tional Park in Montana. While in Glacier,
My friend, Reid, and I would walk and
I camped at Two Medicine, and one
paddle across the Gould’s Inlet sandbar
evening, a Blackfeet woman gave a
and surf the south side of Sea Island.
beautiful talk to a small group of folks at
The waves were small, but large pods of
the campground.
bottlenose dolphins would pass southward close to us. On the way back, as
“The Blackfeet men would go on vision
the tide filled the shallow expanse be-
quests — they’d spend days at a time
tween St. Simons and us, blacktip sharks
in the rigor of the mountains, and God
would come too close for comfort.
would give them some wisdom they’d bring back to the tribe,” she said.
Later that year, I bought a yellow P&H Quest – a 17-foot fiberglass touring
KAYAKING THE GEORGIA COAST
kayak. I’d look at maps of the Georgia
Georgia has 14 barrier islands. Four
coast, and I thought about paddling to
have bridges going out to them. The
each of the remote islands and won-
remaining 10 are practically remote
and require a vessel of some sort. I made it
thought about anything else except the
We are lucky to have this coast in its
my mission to kayak to every island on the
next paddle stroke. Right, left, right, left. I
current state of conservation, but with
remote Georgia coast.
remembered the proper paddling tech-
relative sea level rise at 6mm per year and
nique — keep your arms straight and twist
the innumerable seemingly small-in-scope
your core.
human projects that are detrimentally
On one of these first trips, Mark Gibbs,
affecting the marsh, it’s a possible reality
Chris Nicolas, Hunter Jackson, and I circumnavigated Little Cumberland Island.
Unprompted words came to me from out
that we will lose the salt marsh too. If we
After we launched from Jekyll Island in
of nowhere:
don’t wake up to this possible reality and if we take for granted all the life around
the early morning, we found the Saint Andrews Sound to be as calm as could be
When you’re young, you think your parents
us, one day the books will say, “We didn’t
before passing through Christmas Creek
are going to live forever. They’re all you
do our part for this life-giving force of the
on the backside of Little Cumberland. The
have ever known. When you get older,
saltwater marsh.”
outgoing tide sucked us around the island,
you learn about mortality. It’s the most
and on the front side of Little Cumberland,
inevitable feature of life.
dolphins jumped out of waves, and a big, black, formidable squall headed our way
Most people push the idea of death away.
from the Atlantic Ocean. Thunder roared
That’s the problem.
in the distance, and we needed to hunker down for a bit. When the storm passed,
The place around us, too, is always chang-
the time came to cross the Saint Andrews
ing, and in the last 50 to 100 years, the
back to Jekyll. The wind blew strongly, and
world has shifted so swiftly that ecosys-
the tide pushed strongly into the sound.
tems and habitats are being destroyed all around the world, but what we see now
The two-mile paddle back stiffened my
just seems so normal. It’s called shifting
shoulder and back, and the pain from
baselines.
paddling spread to my neck. I no longer
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with a knowledgeable local team.
copper, premium architectural shingles, and intricate clay and concrete tile
Founded in Athens, Georgia, MLW
roofs, the team offers expertise that ex-
Roofing has remained family-owned
tends well beyond standard residential
and operated for nearly 30 years. The
roofing. One of the company’s current
Brunswick branch, which opened more
coastal projects — a large custom tile
than five years ago in a small office
roof — demonstrates the precision and
near the St. Simons Island Airport, has
craftsmanship required for specialty
grown into a full-service operation
roofing systems. Tile roofing is among
serving homeowners and commercial
the most demanding applications in the
clients throughout Coastal Georgia. The
industry, requiring proper engineering,
MLW Roofing has settled into its home
local leadership team includes General
underlayment, and installation to deliv-
at 2717 Glynn Avenue in Brunswick, and
Manager Derek Fountain, Project Man-
er lasting beauty and performance.
the renovation that once had the office
ager Mitch Weber, and Sales Manager
in transition is now complete. What was
Dylan Freeman, who work closely with
That expertise has also made MLW a
once a work in progress is now a fully
owner Marty Whitehead and the Athens
trusted partner for homeowners asso-
established showroom and headquar-
headquarters to ensure every project
ciations, condominium communities,
ters, reflecting the same craftsmanship
reflects the company’s commitment to
and large residential neighborhoods.
the company brings to every project.
quality, integrity, and customer service.
Multi-building reroofing projects require
Designed as both a workspace and an
detailed scheduling, communication
educational resource, the new location
MLW has earned a reputation for
with residents, coordination with HOA
allows homeowners, builders, architects,
tackling complex and highly specialized
boards and property managers, and
40
G O L D E N I S LES
experienced crews capable of keeping
an opportunity to better understand those
architectural integrity is just as important
projects on schedule while minimizing
options before making an investment. A
as protecting the structure itself. A memo-
disruption. Backed by the resources of
display wall showcases a variety of roofing
rable example was the Reynolds Mansion
its Athens headquarters, MLW has the
materials under specialized lighting that
on Sapelo Island, where the team discov-
capacity to manage projects ranging
simulates different times of day, helping
ered a rare roofing material from the late
from custom homes to entire communities
customers visualize colors and textures
1800s that laboratory testing identified as
without compromising quality.
on their homes. Replica roof assemblies,
“slag,” a compressed mixture of horse-
flashing demonstrations, and product
hair and mud. Projects like these require
The Georgia coast presents unique chal-
samples simplify technical details, while
patience, research, and respect for history
lenges for every roof. Salt air, humidity,
large-screen drone imagery allows project
— qualities that have become hallmarks
intense sunlight, and coastal weather all
managers to identify issues that may not
of the company.
accelerate wear when the wrong ma-
be visible from the ground.
terials or installation methods are used.
Whether installing a custom tile roof, restor-
Rather than simply replacing roofs, MLW
Technology has become an important
ing a historic landmark, managing a large
works closely with homeowners, builders,
part of MLW’s customer experience,
HOA reroofing project, or helping a home-
architects, and designers to recommend
particularly for clients who own multiple
owner choose the right roofing system for
roofing systems that complement each
homes or live outside the area. Drone
coastal living, MLW Roofing approaches
property’s architecture while stand-
inspections provide comprehensive docu-
every project with the same attention to
ing up to the demands of the coastal
mentation, while virtual consultations allow
detail and commitment to excellence
environment. The company’s focus is
homeowners to review findings, discuss
that have defined the company for nearly
on long-term value, ensuring every roof
recommendations, and make informed
three decades.
is designed to protect the home for
decisions from anywhere.
decades.
• MLW Roofing is located at 2717 Glynn
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MLW’s craftsmanship also extends to his-
Avenue in Brunswick. For more information,
toric restoration projects, where preserving
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LIVING WELL standing or sitting. Those measures can help manage symptoms, but they don’t correct the underlying problem.” The root cause lies within the veins themselves. Healthy leg veins contain one-way valves that keep blood flowing upward toward the heart. Over time, these valves can weaken or become damaged. “When the vein walls stretch and the valves no longer close properly, blood can flow backward and pool in the legs,” says Kitchen. “That increased pressure causes fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, leading to swelling, discomfort, aching, and fatigue.”
Procedure allows patients to end pain
M WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON
Most people would agree that aging comes with very few perks. While many point to the wisdom that comes with experience, the list of benefits is often short. Arthritis, wrinkles, and aching joints tend to dominate the conversation. However, one condition often blamed on aging is not actually a normal part of growing older: vein disease. “Many people assume vein problems
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G O L D E N I S LES
are simply part of getting older, but that’s not necessarily true,” says Dr. Stephen Kitchen, a board-certified surgeon in Brunswick. “In many cases, heredity plays a much larger role than age itself.” Known medically as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), vein disease occurs when the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart. Common symptoms include varicose veins, leg pain, swelling, heaviness, fatigue, skin discoloration, and in advanced cases, chronic skin ulcers. Dr. Kitchen has treated patients with venous disease for decades and has witnessed remarkable advances in treatment options during his career. “Years ago, when patients came in with vein problems, we treated them very conservatively,” he explains. “We recommended compression stockings, leg elevation, and avoiding prolonged
If left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can progressively worsen. Patients may develop significant swelling, skin changes, inflammation, and difficult-to-heal venous ulcers. The condition may also increase the risk of superficial blood clots and, in some patients, contribute to more serious venous complications. Fortunately, advances in technology have transformed the treatment of vein disease. Several years ago, Dr. Kitchen was introduced to a new treatment that was already gaining international attention and prominence at major surgical meetings in the United States. “A company approached me about this technology for treating chronic venous insufficiency,” he recalls. “They presented the data at a meeting of the American College of Surgeons, and it was clear that this procedure had the potential to improve the lives of many patients.” That prediction proved accurate. Today, one of the most effective treatments available is the ClosureFast™ procedure, a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to close diseased veins.
The procedure is performed in the physician’s office under local anesthesia. Using ultrasound guidance, the physician identifies the abnormal vein and inserts a small catheter through a tiny puncture in the skin. Controlled radiofrequency energy is then delivered to the vein wall, causing the vein to collapse and seal shut.
The ClosureFast™ procedure represents a significant improvement over older surgical techniques. For many years, the standard treatment was vein stripping, a procedure requiring incisions in the groin and lower leg. A specialized device was threaded through the vein, which was then surgically removed.
Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is naturally redirected through nearby healthy veins, restoring more efficient circulation.
While vein stripping was considered effective at the time, modern, minimally-invasive treatments have largely replaced it because they offer less discomfort, smaller incisions, and faster recovery.
Following the procedure, a small bandage is applied, and patients typically wear compression stockings for a short period during recovery. Most patients are able to walk immediately after treatment and return to normal activities within a day. “There’s very little downtime,” says Kitchen. “Patients walk out of the office and are usually back to their normal routines very quickly.”
According to Dr. Kitchen, one of the biggest challenges today is simply educating patients about the effective treatment options available. “Many people don’t realize that vein disease can be treated,” he says. “The technology has advanced tremendously, and in most cases these procedures are covered by insurance when medically indicated.”
The improvement in quality of life can be dramatic. “We frequently hear patients tell us how much better their legs feel after treatment,” Kitchen says. “When the swelling improves and the pressure is relieved, many patients notice a significant difference in their comfort and ability to stay active.” While treatment may not eliminate every leg symptom a patient experiences, many report reduced aching, heaviness, fatigue, and swelling, allowing them to enjoy a more active lifestyle. “The good news is that we now have excellent treatment options for vein disease,” says Kitchen. “People don’t have to simply live with the symptoms anymore.” • Dr. Stephen Kitchen is a board-certified surgeon. His office is located at 3226 Hampton Avenue, Suite B, Brunswick. For details, visit stephenkitchenmd.com.
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43
M O N E Y TA L K S ST. SIMONS ISLAND Median single home price — $960,000 Number of single-family homes on market — 180 Highest residential sales price —$10,850,000 Health of market: Good (not great)
Exploring the health of local markets
T
WORDS BY AL BROWN | PROVIDED PHOTOS
The diversity of Glynn County real estate is a fascinating topic. An analysis of our area, in general terms, reveals five segments of the market: Brunswick (county), the City of Brunswick, St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Sea Island. The limited scope of this article leads us to take a macro approach. A little background on my real estate career: In the mid-1970s, I was with Parker Kaufman Realtors on Altama Avenue. Most of my customers were young couples, Black and White, wanting to buy
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G O L D E N I S LES
their first home. Most of my sales were under $20,000, and some were under $10,000. In 1978, I transferred to Parker Kaufman’s St. Simons office. At the time, a $60,000 sale was a big deal. In 1982, I was recruited by Sea Island
Challenges: Traffic and zoning. St. Simons has lost some of its appeal. Congestion on the roadways is causing many to move off the island or seriously consider it. Unless the traffic issues are addressed, the quality of life and its enjoyment will decline. The amount of R-6 zoning (minimum lot size of 6,000 square feet [50’x120) is resulting in extremely high-density building in areas of the Island that are neither compatible with nor ever intended for massive influxes of people or housing. The infrastructure (roads, sewer, utilities) and natural beauty of the island are suffering the consequences. BRUNSWICK (CITY) Median home price — $185,000 Number of single-family homes on market — 82 Highest residential sales price — $1,865,000 Health of market: Strong
Co., where initially most home sales ranged from $250,000 to $450,000. In 2013, I founded Al Brown Co., focusing on what I knew best at the time: Sea Island and the communities Sea Island created during my 30-plus years there. The one thing I have learned is that, whether selling a home for $20,000 or $20 million, buyers are people with a need or a want — just sincere people who need help with a decision. Sometimes the decision I help them make is
Challenges: The city has made great strides in combating crime and homelessness. These efforts must continue. The rebirth and revitalization of downtown and Old Town, where the median sales price is $367,000, has been a joy to see. I applaud the pride of ownership and dedication to the Port City. Outsiders are taking note, too, and buying real estate there. BRUNSWICK (COUNTY)
to buy, sometimes not to buy. That’s the subject of a future article. For now, let’s look at Glynn County real estate as of June 3, 2026, breaking down its characteristics and challenges. The strongest market will surprise you.
Median home price — $325,000 Number of single-family homes on market — 226 Highest residential sales price — $1.6 million Health of the market: Soft
Challenges: Long-term mortgage rates; employment opportunities. Brunswick residential real estate is more rate-sensitive, hindering many transactions. The shortage of good-paying jobs reflects limited new employment opportunities. But price points, much lower than those of the Islands, are putting homes within the reach of many more buyers.
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JEKYLL ISLAND Median home price — $730,500 Number of single-family homes on market — 8 Highest residential sales price — $2,681,000 Health of the market: Soft Challenges: Jekyll faces include living on an island that is a state park, managed by the Jekyll Island Authority. This co-existence is not always smooth when it comes to decisions about commercial development and vendors. Leasing your land from the state is different from owning outright. The leases are extended until 2088 with lease rates tied to land values. Jekyll Island continues to draw buyers from around the country for its beauty, slower pace, beaches, and golf courses. Current inventory levels indicate a price range of $995,000 to $2,799,000. Inventory in the mid-price range will return this market to its normal active status.
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SEA ISLAND Median home price — $5.8 million Number of single-family homes on market — 20 Highest single residential sales price — $27.5 million Health of market: Fair * The Portman property sold for $30 million and included two residences. At first glance, this market appears very strong, primarily due to oceanfront sales. A closer look reveals longer days on the market and more price reductions than usual. Translation: It’s a better time to buy rather than sell. Sea Island’s international presence and reputation, combined with the Anschutz family’s care and control, bode well for the future and health of the resort and real estate.
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A word of advice: If you are in the market, you can see beautiful homes anywhere. First, check out the area and see if you like it and if it “fits” your needs. And remember to make it fun. • Al Brown has been in real estate for more than 50 years. Prior to forming his own firm, Al was Senior Vice President of Real Estate for Sea Island Acquisitions. His office is located at 60 Cinema Lane, Suite 120, St. Simons Island. His number is 912-268-2671. The website is albrowncompany.com.
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GAME CHANGERS entered. Riding high, he turned his sights to the PGA Champions Tour. Like its sister competitive circuit, the PGA Tour, the Champions division boasts hefty entry requirements. First and foremost, players must be 50 years old or older. Second, they have to either qualify via a tournament (also known as Q-School) or by advancing during play at a Monday or Tuesday pre-qualifier. “They’ve canceled the Q-School. So, I have to do it the hard way. Now, I try to qualify on Monday for all the events that allow it. There will probably be 14 events that I can do,” he says. “It’s constant practicing, playing, working out, staying on top of everything. I probably walk 18 to 20 miles a week,” he says. The final way to join the tour is by applying for a career exemption. Players who have already earned a place on the PGA Tour are offered these spots.
Kevin Durkin
A
WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HALL
A lot has changed since Kevin Durkin, now 52, first stepped on the greens as a teenager growing up in Florida. There are, however, some habits that have stood the test of time. “My mom would drop me off at the golf course with a PB&J packed in a bag. And I still have those in my bag now,” he says with a laugh. His dedication to the sport has also re-
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G O L D E N I S LES
mained consistent. Over the years, he’s reaped the rewards of decades of drive and determination. “I played competitively on the PGA Tour and the Nationwide Tour from 2001 to 2007. We had our first kid in 2009, so things changed a little bit. Then, we had twins in 2012,” he says. “So, I was teaching golf and doing real estate. Then, I got my amateur card back. I started playing pretty well a couple of years ago.” That success streak inspired Durkin to consider his options. “I thought, ‘You know what, I’m still young and healthy,’ so I played in a bunch of Georgia Senior stuff. I played pretty well in those too,” he says. That “pretty well” actually translates to Durkin winning all five competitions he
Durkin has a few local friends who are involved or looking to join soon. “I’m good friends with Zach Johnson. He just turned 50 and won his first event (on the Champions Tour). Of course, he has a different route to it than I do. He’d never have to qualify,” he says. “To watch him do what he did in the first tournament he played in is very impressive.” Another pro golfer and friend of Durkin’s, Jonathan Byrd, is also looking to make Champions Tour moves. “He’s going to be 50 in a couple of years. He won’t have to qualify either, obviously,” he says. Like his professional cohorts, Durkin also spends a lot of time on the course itself, as well as on the driving range and practice facilities. His game is based at Sanctuary Championship Golf Club, located off Exit 26 in Camden County. “When I first came out here to Sanctuary, it was not what it is now. It was very overgrown and unattended to, but (owner Steve) Dawson came out here
and did what he did, and now it’s great,” he says. The course, which originally opened in 2006, was developed by local celebrity golfer Davis Love III and Fred Couples. After a $4 million renovation in 2020, improvements to the course coupled with the growth of the gated neighborhood helped spark more interest in the location. Durkin and his family were certainly attracted. The family of five moved to the community for several years before relocating back to St. Simons Island. Even so, Durkin still spends many hours at Sanctuary. “I commute now,” he says with a laugh. “I play with a men’s group out here. That’s great because they’re all good, fun guys. They hold you to account if you hit a bad shot, so you have some pressure on you.” While these games aren’t make-or-break the way the qualifiers are, they still help Durkin get in the proper mindset. “You have to compartmentalize to play good golf. You have to be able to block things out,” he says. Another important skill to have is adaptability. Durkin, who has qualified for the remaining events of 2026, still has to go play unfamiliar courses without ever knowing how plans will shake out. “I told my wife, ‘I get one shot of this for one year or maybe two.’ But it’s really hard,” he admits. Even so, Durkin isn’t giving up. He’s going to continue to see where his golf game leads him. And he hopes others, in particular young players, will do the same. “I think the sport of golf is the best thing kids can do. It can teach them so many things in life. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true … honesty, integrity, manners, being held accountable to a schedule, timing, building friendships,” he lists. These are the timeless tenets of the game that hold true whether one is an aspiring tour champion like Durkin or a complete newbie just starting out. “I think that the difficulty is the attraction and what makes it so much fun. You’re always chasing perfection … which you’ll never get,” he says. “You have the first hole and the 18th hole, and then you gotta do your best in between.”
SEPTEMB ER/OC TO BE R 2026
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THE DISH “We like to think of ourselves as a vibier version of a barbecue joint,” she says. All the cocktail syrups lined up behind the counter are house-made, which is a running theme throughout the business. “Our core themes are quality and consistency,” she says.
Hootenanny’s serves up Southern fare
T
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY TAYLOR COOPER
There’s a lot you can say about the heat in our lovely corner of the South. It’s sticky, it’s cloying, it’s oppressive, it’s heavy — you can feel it weighing on your shoulders when you walk outside. One of the most common sayings I hear around here actually tries to take some of the heat off. You’ve all heard it. Something to the effect of, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” Who cares, I say. When it feels like 108 degrees (so the weather forecast said that day), that’s hot. Whatever it is you’re putting off because of “the humidity,” you wouldn’t be doing it in 108-degree dry heat, either. Let’s be honest. I have simply accepted the fact that I’m going to sweat when I go outside. Nothing’s going to change. It’s going to continue being hot, and I’m not going to stop loving this place despite it. I could say the same of my wife. I love her, in spite of being a Yankee. Much like my wife, Hootenanny’s at the Yard owner Kelly Hnatt is an example that
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G O L D E N I S LES
even Yankees can understand what’s great about the South. She might also be an honorary Yankee, having spent much of her early career in the Big Apple — although she hails originally from the Midwest. Hootenanny’s is among the best barbecue restaurants in the Isles. This piece is not an ad, but you can consider it an endorsement from the author. I’m a big fan of the stuff, and what Hootenanny’s offers ranks up there with the best of the South, not just the Golden Isles. There’s a good reason for that, and it’s not complicated or an industry insider secret. Hnatt and her staff — a smallish group of well-trained and skilled professionals — build a culinary foundation of quality ingredients first and cultivate a good menu and great recipes on top of that. The restaurant is situated in a historic house on an attractive stretch of Ellis Street, across from the Old Glynn County Courthouse and resting under the shade of a couple of lush live oaks. Looking up and down Ellis, similar oaks stretch out, taking the brunt of the sunshine off the pavement and structures below their moss-draped limbs. But when Hnatt arrived for her interview with GIM, she was on foot — her home is only a short walk away down the block — and eager to get into the 70-or-so-degree confines of her establishment. So we move into the restaurant’s seating area. Homey vibes permeate the classic Southern home’s interior. The seating area is comfy and easy to relax and converse in. A small bar tucked into one corner of one room offers another cozy little spot to hang out if you’re solo.
What better way to ensure quality than to make everything yourself, to your own exacting standards? And it’s more than a motto — it’s practically her entire business model. She goes out of her way to buy high-quality proteins, eschewing the established distributors in favor of experimenting to find which distributor provides the product that will make the best dish, given her cooking conditions (two almost-identical Lang BBQ smokers, if you’re interested). Most restaurateurs are more concerned with how the food gets from the kitchen to the table and focus their efforts on perfecting that transition. Hnatt is as concerned, almost more so, with the transition from distributor to kitchen. “For example, our brisket comes from select branches in, basically, a 400mile circumference of ranches on the Montana-Canada border. That ensures the briskets that are getting to cook are being raised by the same ranchers and handled in the same way every week before they get to us,” she says. “Our other proteins, the same thing. We tried various versions of our chicken thighs, our turkey, our ribs, or whatever it is we’re cooking. When we find the one that handles best under our cooking circumstances. That’s how we choose the ones we stick with.” That doesn’t always come cheap, but Hnatt thinks that diners are coming to realize, with the advent of healthy eating trends now favoring whole and minimally processed food, that good food doesn’t come cheap, and it shouldn’t. If the food you’re paying someone else to prepare is cheap, it’s an indication that the quality isn’t what it could be. Not to say that’s a bad thing, by any stretch. Cheap food has its place, and dining out should be accessible to everyone who wants to partake. But Hnatt believes diners who want truly good, nutritious, and expertly prepared food will pay the requisite cost. It’s not a blind gamble, either. Her customers have come to understand and appreciate it. “There’s nothing that we’re not making from scratch. For every single menu item, there’s nothing pre-purchased. I won’t
even let it happen,” she says. “… I’m not going to make ketchup from scratch, or mustard from scratch, but if I’m making a salad dressing, I’m squeezing the lemon and adding the honey and olive oil and salt and pepper and whatever else. That really is how we cook.” That segues neatly into the featured dish for this edition, Hoot Jambalaya. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s perfect for any time of year, but especially the fall and winter. The ingredients intersect perfectly with most barbecue dishes. If you’ve got anything left over from your last cookout, toss it in the pot.
Hoot Jambalaya (Serves 4-5 as a main dish and 8-10 as a side dish)
Ingredients
½ sweet onion, diced 1 green pepper, diced 1 red pepper, diced 1 stalk celery, diced 1-2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 15 oz crushed tomatoes 1 Tbsp. tomato paste 1.5 Tbsp. Creole seasoning (Hootenanny’s uses Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning) Cayenne pepper to taste 1 ½ pounds cooked meat: pork/ sausage/chicken/shrimp/turkey/ rib meat Sliced green onions/hot sauce to garnish
Directions
Prep one and a half cups of rice (we use basmati) according to directions in chicken broth. Sauté vegetables in a stockpot with two tablespoons of canola oil until soft. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and Creole seasoning to the stockpot and cook for 8-10 minutes, until tomatoes cook down slightly. Add cayenne pepper to taste. If preparing meat for the jambalaya, season with salt and pepper and prep to the appropriate temperature/doneness for the specific protein. Slice sausage into thin rounds, and chop other proteins into bite-sized pieces. If reheating previously cooked proteins, cut proteins first and then quickly brown meat in the pan on the cooktop in canola oil to the appropriate temperature. Add the cooked rice and proteins to the stockpot and stir thoroughly to warm through. Taste for heat and salt, and season further as necessary. Top with green onions, additional proteins, or hot sauce as desired.
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Jennifer Foster
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WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON | PHOTOS BY ENNI ER OSTER NICOLET TE TOLOMEO GERMAIN KYLE MORGAN STEVE KENDALL CATHERINE SCHWART AND IM S IRES
Shoot Moon the
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efore the first formation of civilizations, humanity’s eyes were drawn to the skies. There, an ancient orb heralded the passage of time and the changing of the seasons.
The moon has always been a part of life on Earth. But even after tens of thousands of years, we’re only beginning to uncover its secrets. NASA has been studying our nearest satellite since the organization was formed in 1958. Artists, however, have been capturing it since prehistoric times in the form of lunar calendars chiseled on cave walls.
As technology progressed throughout the centuries, so too did depictions of the moon. Its first photograph was taken in 1840 by the French artist Louis Daguerre as a daguerreotype. Modern-day images have come a long way since those days. And with the advent of digital photography, there are plenty of ways to shoot the moon. Read on to discover some local photographers’ tips and tricks:
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Kyle Morgan photos
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Kyle Morgan Those familiar with photography in the Golden Isles undoubtedly recognize the name Kyle Morgan. Known for his bold, vibrant landscapes, he’s become a bit of a social media sensation. His Facebook account has more than 27,000 followers. But it may come as a surprise that he hasn’t been at it all that long.
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“I’ve been doing it for at least four years, since the pandemic,” he says. But his father, Wayne Morgan, another celebrated local photographer, has enjoyed the hobby much longer. With that experience came an extensive collection of equipment, and Kyle used some of it to further develop his talent. And one of the areas he explored was night photography. Naturally, the moon was an early favorite among subjects. “My dad had the telephoto lens, and that’s kind of what drew me to getting the moon photos. That’s the long lens,” he says. Morgan also uses an app called Photo Pills. That helps him pinpoint the best location to capture the moon rise. “It really helps with everything … planning the moon phases, moonrise locations, and timing. But I’ve kind of been doing it for so many years. I’ve kind of developed a pretty good feel for when things happen, like, for example, a full moon,” he says.
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“It rises and sets opposite the sun, so it just becomes finding a location and watching the forecast … hoping the conditions line up.” He also looks for architectural features, landmarks, and other interesting elements to include in the photo. “I’ve done shrimp boats before … that’s definitely my favorite. I wasn’t expecting it. I was on Jekyll, and I was waiting for the full moon to rise, and I saw a shrimp boat … way out there. I had to drive like miles trying to get the location right for it to line up,” he says.
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“Then, I had to run about another 1-1.5 miles to get to the perfect spot and then set it up. But everything just came together with that one. I love that one.”
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Nicolette Tolomeo Germain For as long as Nicolette Tolomeo Germain can remember, she’s had a camera in hand — or at the very least, nearby. “… since I was a teenager. I’ve been like documenting my life. I love nature and landscapes. I love being outdoors,” she says. “I have a lifetime of images … all the places that I’ve been, mostly Georgia, Florida, Marblehead, Ohio, and then Pennsylvania, which is where I’m from.” In more recent years, she and her husband have wintered in the Golden Isles. Germain’s love of the area has called her back time and time again. “We have been coming down there for maybe 15 years. It used to be our stopover on our way to Florida, and then, this past year, we just decided to make it our permanent winter spot,” she says.
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“I love Jekyll. I love the marshland. I love the changing tides. My soul connects with all of that down there. It’s beautiful.” Once she was established in her second home, she started a quest for “her people.” That’s how Germain discovered the Coastal Photographers Guild. “I was down there all by myself and didn’t know anyone. I met the folks at Goodyear Cottage, and they were great. I have some of my photography there,” she says. “So I was just looking around for a photographers’ group and just came across them on Facebook. I applied to become a member and went to my first meeting up on St. Simons. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I love these people.’”
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Nicolette Tolomeo Germain photos
The Guild engages members’ curiosity with monthly meetings and photography assignments. One of the things they touched on is nighttime photography with a single focus — the moon. “Shooting the moon is like shooting the sun as far as settings go. But every day is different … you really never know what you’re going to get,” she says. For these particular shots, she set out in the early evening with her trusty tripod. And from there, Germain relies on her reflexes. “It’s quick once it starts coming up. You have to start shooting,” she says. “It’s an art for sure. It’s an art form because you are capturing a moment in time that’s never gonna happen again, right?”
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Catherine Schwartz Schwartz has been drawn to photography since her college days. Over the years, it’s become an artistic passion that has fueled thousands of photographs. “I took a photography class at Davidson College in North Carolina. But it was really just a kind of club,” she says. “I learned the darkroom process and continued with digital photography. I just fell in love with it.” The Charlotte, North Carolina, native has kept her camera close ever since. Schwartz has refined her skills, snapping athletes on the field and birds in mid-flight. And when she moved to the Golden Isles in 2017, she was thrilled to find an organization where she could share her work — the Coastal Photographers Guild. “I was just interested in going out and taking pictures with other photographers and learning from them. I found the guild right when I moved to town,” she says. “It’s grown and changed since then. We do the Big Photo Show every year, which has been fun. It really has gotten me to print a lot more of my work than I would otherwise.” The group often assigns certain topics to members, who then go out and shoot thematic images. They share their work at the next meeting. “There’s a wide range of interest, and it’s just a great opportunity to learn, even if it’s just your iPhone,” she says. “It’s also a great opportunity to make a new friend.” One of the subjects that has been floated — the moon. Schwartz says that photographing it was certainly a challenge, but one she readily accepted. “It’s a new area of photography for me. I’m working on capturing the
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Catherine Schwartz
Milky Way and the moon. These shots I took on the pier and I expected it to rise over the St. Simons Island lighthouse,” she says. She mounted her camera on her tripod and selected a suitable lens for the job. “I had more of a telephoto lens. You need a high enough shutter speed to avoid camera shake. Then, you have a low aperture, and your ISO just depends. You really shouldn’t have to worry about it since you’re on a tripod,” she says.
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As with her other subjects, Schwartz finds magic in preserving these distinct moments in time. It’s something that continues to feed her creativity. “I love walking around, even if it’s just in my backyard or around the Golden Isles, and finding something beautiful and capturing it. It’s great to be able to look back … you might see a beautiful sunset, or a beautiful bird flying across your camera lens. To be able to capture that moment and save it for others to see is just a great gift.”
Steve Kendall
Catherine Schwartz
Jennifer Foster
Jennifer Foster
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WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON | PHOTOS BY ARIC SPARMANN
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W
ith practiced ease, Gary Grace slipped into a suit jacket, bowtie, and top hat.
“Now, if you’re a fashion designer, you have to dress like it,” he says with a smile and a nod. Grace is in the fashion biz, but that’s definitely not the only “hat” he wears. He’s also a painter, songwriter, drummer, and photographer. “I’ve been called Hat Cat when I was in a band … then it was Sombrero Gato and now it’s Gato which is the name I use for my art,” he says. The list is practically endless, but it’s pretty clear that his favorite moniker — “the husband of Tracy Grace.” “I love to brag on my wife … got to plug my wife. That’s what we do for each other,” he says, his missus beaming nearby. “She keeps me straight.” The couple has had quite the journey in their two decades together. It began in Philadelphia, where Gary grew up and got his first spark of creative inspiration. In fact, he didn’t have to look far.
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“My mother was an interior designer and upholsterer. When she was going to school for it, she would bring home her projects — her fabric patterns and renderings. I always admired them,” he says. “There were five of us, but I was the only son who took a liking to helping my mother with her upholstery.” It was the spark that lit the flame of his artistic life. He learned to sew and create patterns. Of course, that was spawned out of necessity. “So this was back in in ‘78 or ‘79 … but there were several of us in my neighborhood, and we’d go to the vintage clothing stores. We really admired GQ, Gentlemen’s Quarterly,” he says. “I was the one who would alter my clothes. In fact, there was a group that would call me GQ … just a small group of guys that wanted to dress to impress. Not every day, of course, because that got expensive.” It went deeper than dressing sharply. Gary enrolled at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1981, then, went on to a specialized design school. “I studied to become a fashion illustrator,” he says. “I’d also taken classes at Clarissa’s School of Fashion for sewing and pattern making.” He put those skills to good use, too. With financial backing and supporters, Gary established a clothing line called Posse. “It still exists in Australia, but we do not own it anymore,” he says. While his creative quest would diverge from fashion, art was always a major part of his life. He continued to paint and eventually opened a gallery of his own in 1997. “There was a large hiatus with raising kids and all,” Gary says with a laugh. “But the second gallery I opened was in 2016. That was in a house, and I outgrew it in one year due to my large-scale paintings.” By this time, the Graces were living outside of Atlanta and had been for a good while.
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“… since 1995, when the Olympics were there. We knew it would be better for us because there was a lot of suffering from the steel mills closing. We called it ‘the steel mill blues,’” Gary says. But after living in Georgia comfortably for years, Tracy felt something was missing. That’s when the two discovered the Golden Isles and bought a vacation property in the area. “We wanted a better quality of life, so we invested in a vacation home here in 2020,” she says. Gary opened a small gallery and storefront along Newcastle Street. Eventually, they bought other properties for a gallery and workspace in downtown Brunswick. “I started working on him back then,” Tracy says with a laugh. “I wanted to move here full-time.” And what Mrs. Grace wants — Mrs. Grace gets. The couple sold their Johns Creek home and relocated permanently.
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Of course, they’re not stationary for long. “We travel a lot for my wife’s business; she has a tech company,” he says. Still, they’ve been in their new home long enough to get plugged into the arts community. Gary has exhibited at Glynn Visual Arts, Jittery Joe’s, and the Southeast Georgia Health System’s hospital. “Driftwood Wine and Cocktails, too,” Tracy adds. “He will have a show at A Moveable Feast, too.” Gary has also joined the local artist group — the Contemporary Art Alliance of Georgia (CAAGA) — which brings together abstract artists. Tracy says that she feels her husband’s versatility has helped him acclimate to his new life on the coast. “I always felt that he would do well here because he does so many different mediums,” she says. “He never wants to be boxed in.” It doesn’t seem like there’s much of a chance of that. Gary continues to explore his large-scale abstract pieces, detailed portraits, and even pop art. Most recently, he’s returned to his fashion roots. Gary will roll out an exclusive scarf and silk-tie line, which officially drops this fall. “We’re starting with four concept scarves. The names are all in French … the bird, the flower, the giraffe, and signature scarf,” Tracy says. “We’re starting with the long scarves and will branch out.” A key element of the design is his iconic GG — Gary Grace — maison logo, which has become a staple of his work. Going forward, Gary intends to continue to play off his multiple talents, interweaving different mediums into all areas of his work. “Basically, it’s fine fashion and abstract. It’s a fashion piece mixed with metallic and latex paint … oil, metallic and latex,” he says. “But altogether, I have about 25 styles.” • To follow Gary “Gato” Grace’s work, visit atlantanorthart.com. SEPTEMB ER/OC TO BE R 2026
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WORDS BY OLIVIA MARASCALCO PHOTOS BY MICHELLE HOLTON
Loom
Life Jekyll weavers share ancient tradition
T
he old floors of the Goodyear Cottage creaked as three ladies gathered around to help
Deb Walton with her loom. Starting a project is always the hardest part. If you start wrong, the whole weave will be off. On the other side of the room and across the hall, the treadles of the looms create a steady rhythm as the women use their feet to push them down. It’s a surprisingly physical activity. For the number of happenings on the second floor, there is still a presence of quiet and calm. It’s eclectic, familiar, almost like being in your grandmother’s house.
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“The house is fabulous,” says Janet Shaw, a student in the advanced weaving class. “It’s so peaceful.” It’s not at all a shock that the Cottage Weavers have been there since Kate Rumbaugh planted her loom there in 1977. Following suit was Betty Smith. When Smith discovered Rumbaugh in 2000, she, too, moved her loom to Goodyear Cottage, and the two began weaving together. They would eventually go on to teach others and grow the movement. “During the art festivals, I used to go onto Kate’s loom and just weave away, and she’d say ‘Stop, this is for everybody to weave on,’” laughs Kate Hamer, who is now a teacher for the Cottage Weavers. “Betty worked with me on my second project, and I’ve been here ever since.”
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What started as two women coming together to weave has now grown into a community. Formal classes began in 2004 through the Jekyll Island Arts Association and are now carried on by Tricia Bowman, Betty Smith’s daughter. The guild now has 32 members, four of whom keep their personal looms at Goodyear Cottage. There are now many more than just two weavers, but they are still able to maintain a pleasantly unique environment of unity. Even though each woman’s weaving is crafted through personal decisions about color and stitching patterns, it still involves a lot of teamwork. “I think that our camaraderie and how we get together and help each other is what makes this place special,” Hamer says.
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This seems to be the general consensus among the weavers. Shaw, who hails from Savannah, reports that her friends at home think she’s crazy for making the drive there and back for a weaving class. But she would tell you that the community alone makes it totally worth it. “I’m only here one day a week,” she chuckles. “I love coming down here because if I get into trouble, I can just yell for help, and I’ll have four people come.” Shaw’s blue-dyed hands moved meticulously over her loom and her weave. She had been working with turquoise the night before on Tybee Island. Even though the sun was shining and the birds were chirping this morning, she had been caught in a rough thunderstorm while on Tybee. She may be exhausted, but that doesn’t keep her from being present with the women around her. She realizes an adjustment needs to be made to her eight-harness loom. “This loom seems to have a sweet spot,” she says with a smile. “All of these looms have their own personalities.” Hamer, to the rescue, helps from the back of the loom while Shaw makes the necessary adjustments in the front. Even though Shaw has been weaving since high school, it’s always ideal to have a teacher who understands what you need, when you need it.
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“Once I started, I couldn’t quit,” says Hamer about teaching weaving classes.
Hamer says she’s undoubtedly built lasting memories and friendships here. The Cottage Weavers have become a community that she knows she can rely on for anything. Through her teaching, she has done the same for those around her. “It’s become like another family to me,” she says.
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It doesn’t matter if she’s teaching a beginner class or an advanced one; she says her favorite part remains the same. “When we finish a class and I see all their work and they’re proud of themselves, that’s my favorite part,” she says sincerely. “Just seeing their faces when they took their scarves off the loom. I will never forget that.”
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• To learn more about the Cottage Weavers, visit jekyllartists.com.
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The Creative
Cartwrights
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F
or many homeowners, finding that perfect piece of art to adorn their walls can prove elusive. But that’s never been a problem for the Cartwrights.
The family of four has two in-house artists who’ve produced a steady stream of canvases for years. “These two pieces are Marden Harden, but the kids did everything else,” their mother, Cherise, explains. Those kids — the home’s artists-in-residence — are Olivia Jane, 13, and Dawson, 17. While both are decidedly young, their artistic interests were sparked even earlier. Both were initially inspired by art classes while living in Macon. Since then, their skills and commitment to their craft have continued to grow. “I remember, it was summer, and my mom signed me up for classes at A Creative Alternative,” Dawson says, seated next to his sister. “I was inspired by graphic design and comic books, actually.” From there, Dawson branched out, exploring painting, which led to his love of watercolors.
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“That’s my primary medium now,” he says. While it’s common to associate the soft shades with a whimsical flow, Dawson’s use of the style is something entirely his own. The recent Frederica Academy graduate uses it to recreate cityscapes and architectural designs. “I grew up in downtown Macon with a lot of historic architecture, and I also lived in Savannah, Georgia, which also has a lot of historical architecture,” he says. “So that was a big inspiration for me.” Of course, creating life-like urban landscapes takes a good bit of skill. But Dawson upped the ante — he paints them on the inside of oyster shells. “I started making oyster shell art when I was 13. My parents had seen people making decoupage oyster shells on Pinterest, where decorative napkins are glued to shells,” he says. “We all did some decoupage oyster shell Christmas ornaments after an oyster roast one year. That inspired me to create my own oyster shells using my original designs.” Like her brother’s, Olivia Jane’s artistic interests were sparked several years ago. Unlike Dawson, however, she is often drawn to abstract styles.
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FOR IMME IMMEDIATE RELEASE Communities In Schools of Glynn and McIntosh Counties Announces Communit Executive Leadership Transition Brunswick, Ga. — Communities In Schools (CIS) of Glynn and McIntosh Counties is pleased Brunsw announce the appointment of Earlene Dickson as its next Executive Director, to an effective January 1, 2027. eff fe ff Dickson will succeed Lynn Love, who will retire in December 2026 after 14 years of dedicated leadership and service to the organization. To ensure a seamless transition, de Dickson will work alongside Love throughout the remainder of the year before officially Di as assuming the role at the start of the new year. Earlene is without question the best fit to lead CIS moving forward,” said Andrew Ruberti, E Chair of the CIS Board of Directors. “Not only is Earlene intimately familiar with how CIS works inside and out, she has a passion for what CIS is all about – helping our students become the best version of themselves. We are incredibly confident in her commitment to our students and ability to lead CIS into the future.” As Executive Director, Dickson will oversee the organization's efforts to surround students with the support they need to stay in school and achieve success in life. CIS works closely with local schools, community partners, and volunteers to remove barriers to learning and provide students with the resources they need to thrive. Dickson shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue the organization's mission. “I'm honored to transition into this role and build on the incredible work Lynn and the team have accomplished, as I enter my 12th school year with the organization,” Dickson shared. “I believe every child deserves to feel safe and to know that people in the community, many of whom they may not even know, want to support their dreams and their future. That support gives them the encouragement to push ahead, even when things feel unknown or intimidating. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our staff, board members, school partners, and community supporters to allow every student to succeed.” Love's retirement marks the close of a remarkable chapter for the organization. During her tenure, she helped expand the reach and impact of Communities In Schools, strengthening partnerships and enhancing services for students and families throughout Glynn and McIntosh counties. “While we are of course excited to have Earlene in this new role, I would be remiss if I failed to mention how much Lynn Love has meant to CIS and students in Glynn and McIntosh Counties,” said Ruberti. “One only needs to look to our former students who have grown up to be successful young men and women to see the kind of impact Lynn has had. We are grateful for her service and the foundation she has built for our organization and future generations of students.” Communities In Schools of Glynn and McIntosh Counties remains committed to empowering students to stay in school, graduate, and achieve success through the support of caring adults, community partnerships, and evidence-based programs. About Communities In Schools of Glynn and McIntosh Counties Communities In Schools is the nation's leading organization dedicated to surrounding students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Serving Glynn and McIntosh counties, the organization works directly inside schools to connect students and families with essential resources, helping remove barriers to academic success and creating brighter futures for the communities it serves. To learn more about CIS, please visit www.cisofglynn.org . Media Contact: Taylor Wilson Tailer Communities In Schools of Glynn and McIntosh Counties taylor@darlinmedia.com
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“I’ve pretty much been into painting and making things since I was younger. Once we got onto the island, my mom signed me up for art classes. That’s where I got into acrylic, then abstract and realism,” she says. Her brother, who is five years older, has always played a role, though. Olivia Jane says she kept a keen eye on Dawson’s endeavors as they expanded. “I watched him do different art styles. At one point, I’d have different things he made in my room, so it made me want to do it,” she says. Dawson also found his little sister’s work impressive. “She started taking lessons, and she’s gotten very good at painting,” he says. “I think we influence each other in indirect ways.” Often, Dawson adds, the work takes on a life of its own. Every blank canvas provides endless possibilities. “I just start … it’s that first stroke of a paintbrush or line from a pencil that directs itself. I just go on from there,” he says. “Sometimes I’ll start doing a drawing, and then you think, ‘No, let’s scratch that and start over.’” Olivia Jane knows what that’s like. The difference for her is that abstract work is typically more forgiving.
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“It’s really fun to do abstract because I start somewhere and it just goes and goes,” she says with a laugh. Both of them have created plenty of “keepers.” In fact, the Cartwright kids put their talents on public display in 2025. The two shared an exhibition opening at the Brunswick library as part of a summer art loop. “It was really fun to let other people see what I’ve made,” Olivia Jane says. The duo also enjoyed sharing it together. Their proud parents were on hand as art lovers and well-wishers dropped by the library to take in their work. That’s especially true of the younger crowd. Dawson and Olivia Jane feel that their devotion to art helps quiet some of the noise that comes with being teenagers. First and foremost, it can help with stepping back from social media scrolling. “I think it can honestly help anyone. It gives you something else to do,” Dawson says.
There are no current plans for another exhibit at the moment, as Dawson prepares to start at Georgia Tech in Atlanta this fall. Their art will certainly continue to embrace creativity and realism. “I work with Etch A Sketch a lot. I actually talked about it in my college essay because with that, you can’t just erase a line. You have to shake it and erase everything or figure out how to go back and fix what you’ve done,” Dawson says. “You have to rework it. It’s a philosophy I have for making mistakes.” His sister’s thoughts are equally profound. For Olivia Jane, art has taught her about appreciating the beauty of the world around her. “In painting, I’ve realized all of the beauty in the different colors,” she says. “In mixing them, it really helps me realize the beauty in the world and in nature. Seeing everything around you gives a different perspective.”
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my Lee picked up the respirator, its filters capped in hot pink — a decidedly feminine flourish for such a device. in one swift move, she affixes it to her head and bows over her tiny cauldron.
“You figure out how to make the different shapes,” she says, drizzling — and sometimes flinging — the molten pewter onto the board. Lee takes a few steps back to admire the emerging patterns.
Slowly, the shiny bar of pewter starts to melt. Lee watches, carefully stirring as it liquifies.
“It takes some time for them to cool … the bigger pieces especially,” she says, lightly touching a hardening swirl.
“It’s really pretty,” she says, peering again into the cast iron skillet. This is just the first step on her artistic sojourn. After the metal dissolves, it’s time for the next phase. Gingerly picking up the tiny pot, Lee turns to an awaiting slice of cardboard strategically placed on a garage tabletop.
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Once they’re finished, Lee’s work will really begin. The British-born artist, who first moved to New York City, and more recently, to Coastal Georgia, has watched her interests change over the years. “I’ve always been a curious person … my whole life. I went to art
and design school, but they always tell artists that we won’t be able to make a living, so I went the interior design route,” she says. Lee’s family immigrated to the United States in the early 1990s. She landed in the bustling art scene of New York City. And there, her curiosity persisted. Her metal-making effort is a testament to that. “I don’t want to say I invented it … but I did kind of come up with it. I’m always making things, so I was making a candleholder,” she explains. “I found a beautiful piece of walnut, and I was thinking, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool to do a metal reveal?’” While she was already a seasoned artist, Lee had no experience with metal. To rectify that, she started reading everything she could about melting and shaping metal. “I also watched YouTube videos, and I discovered how to get metal to stay inside of wood,” she says. “But, while I was watching the metal melt, I was like, ‘That is so interesting.’” Over time, she began experimenting with using metallic pieces as the basis of her work. Lee found that different ways of pouring the pewter resulted in varying lengths and shapes.
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“I use pewter because it has a lower melting point,” she says. “I’ve honed it now. I know now how to get long pieces, dots, or splashes. It’s all about how you throw it.” It seems as if nature itself takes a part in Lee’s art. As the pewter cools into circles, dots, and squiggles, her imagination begins to envision storylines. “Sometimes, I just see it. Like this is a lobster and an octopus,” she says, shifting loose pieces on the canvas. Sometimes she paints the background. Other times, she leaves it a stark white that presents a striking juxtaposition to the shiny silver. “I move them around until I figure out where I want to place it, and then once I love it, I photograph it,” she says. “Then, I take everything off, and I adhere it with a metal adhesive. It takes about three to four hours to cure.” While the end product is Lee’s own vision, she doesn’t expect others to share her interpretation. Part of the excitement of art, she feels, is allowing space for viewers’ own experience.
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“I don’t care what other people see in it. It’s not about the subject for me. I’m about the person looking at it and seeing what they see,” she says. Interpretations of the shapes may differ, but reactions to Lee’s work are fairly uniform. “The first thing is, ‘I’ve never seen this before,’” she says with a laugh. “What I love is that people feel familiar with it, but they don’t know why … and they want to touch it. It’s tactile.” Lee invites art lovers to get hands on with her work. She encounters many of them at events and festivals hosted by local organizations, including Glynn Visual Arts and the Jekyll Island Arts Association. “Since my artwork is creatively unique, in process and style, it is such a great conversation starter. People are always so intrigued by the process and want to know more,” she says. “I create … because it’s something I need to do for myself, but seeing how curious it makes people is everything to me. When people view it for the first time, I can see their imagination is activated, and they start to see things within the shapes, and they want to touch it. That curiosity brings me so much joy.” • To follow Amy Lee’s journey, visit amylouiselee.com/art.
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NOISEMAKERS
WORDS BY MICHAEL ARRIS R PHOTOS BY MICHELLE HOLTON
THE RIDER BAND
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It was a match made in heaven. He was recently back
and know that heavily featuring cover music allows
in Waycross after a stint in Atlanta. She was trying to find
them to work as full-time musicians in the area. The way
her way out of Jacksonville with eyes on New York. Her
Chris puts it, “As long as we’re making someone in the
sister introduced the two of them, and Chris Rider knew
audience have a better day because we’re part of
he found the missing piece he needed in a female sing-
it, that’s okay with me.” And, every now and then in
er. And a year after starting the band, Chris and Laurie tied the knot and began their journey to becoming one of the most prominent bands in the Golden Isles. On just about any night, there’s a good chance you’ll run into Chris and Laurie in the background, putting their own twist on a well-known tune. “You might as well put your own spin on a song,” says Laurie. “We still keep it where people can sing along, but at the same time, still try to not sound exactly like the artist.” “A compliment that I enjoy is when someone comes up and says, ‘I love your version of that song,’” she adds. The Riders have embraced their identity as entertainers
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the setlist, they’ll sprinkle in their own originals, which is where their musical passion truly lies. Back in the early days in Waycross, Chris knew deep down he wanted to make music, and he drew heavy inspiration by Gram Parsons and the intricate harmonies he weaved with Emmylou Harris. Laurie said she began her singing career at two weeks old when her mother held her onstage as a worship director, and after going through her wonder years singing and being on stage, she began to develop a resistance to her calling. It took some convincing and a lot of work (especially in a day and age without a cellphone to easily access lyrics), but over time, Chris convinced Laurie to get on board.
They performed in various bands like The Traveling River-
melody, and finally landing on the lyrics. Laurie starts with
side Band and Haymakers, and along the way, they col-
words — words she sees in an article, hears on TV, or finds
lected Rider Band mainstays like Matthew Starling (bass)
just stuck in her head.
and Michael Alongi (drums), but the evolution into the outfit they are now wasn’t without growing pains.
“One of the songs that I wrote, a lyric came from Bill Maher,” Laurie says with a laugh. “I had one line left to write
“I thought when I was young that you just wrote songs, put
in this song, but I just could not figure it out. And we were
a band together, got a van, and rode around and played,”
watching him one night, and he said something, and I
says Chris. “And then, I realized it was a lot harder than that.”
thought, ‘Oh my God, that’s the line. There it is.’”
Eventually, life brought them to the coast, and in 2020,
And now, The Rider Band is releasing a new EP album,
while the COVID pandemic forced Laurie to reconsider
titled “Long Way,” which includes updated recordings of
her life as a bartender, Chris played over 200 solo gigs,
songs Chris and Laurie have written over the years. “I want
prompting the conversation of them both becoming full-
to make sure that I have good recordings that I’m proud
time musicians. They have since added Pete Jock to com-
of that represent the song,” Chris says. “It doesn’t matter if
plete the core band. Even though the gigging life kept
they have to be re-recorded and re-released. I’d rather do
them busy, they still found time to exercise their creative
that than have regrets.”
muscles and write or refine their originals. The Riders admit that it’s difficult to be a musician now, Each of them has their own way of writing music. For Chris,
but they love what they do, and they encourage any
it starts with strumming chords and riffs, then finding the
aspiring artists to stick with it if you truly love the process.
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