Many may not realize the history behind the tradition of blessing the fleets in fishing communities. Centuries ago, European Catholics, would have the local priest speak

his blessing over the boats to ensure a safe and bountiful fishing season. 

 

The City of Brunswick held its first blessing ceremony more than 60 years ago when Portuguese immigrants introduced the practice in their new home. This community of immigrants was mostly Catholic, and still the blessing is tied to the local Catholic Church. The event is held on Mother’s Day weekend as a way to honor Our Lady of Fatima (the patron saint of Portugal) and mothers in the parish. 

 

Darien, just north of Brunswick in neighboring McIntosh County, has held an annual blessing since 1970. Boat owners in both communities spend weeks preparing and decorating their vessels to compete for prizes and trophies. The Darien event has evolved into the largest Shrimp Boat festival on the east coast with many fun activities planned and no doubt a lot of very fine Wild Georgia Shrimp. If you want to read more on their website, go to: www.blessingofthefleet.com

 

Spring is a wonderful time to visit St. Simons and the Golden Isles and I would love to personally share our little bit of heaven with you!

I'm not certain how many of your may have visited Jekyll Island in Southeast GA in the past. The island is a state park with wonderful beaches, golf and bike paths and trails many of which wide enough for a car! The downside is the lodging choices are in need of upgrading to compete with other choices in the region. In years past, conventioneers chose Jekyll as a hot spot to visit, but the amenities have deteriorated and Jekyll does not draw that same trade today.

The demolition of a hotel landmark, the Buccaneer, was started this week. The Buccaneer was built in 1961 and had been doing business most recently as the Clarion Resort Buccaneer. Plans for Jekyll call for a $441 million redevelopment and renovation project which boasts sensitivity in maintaining the natural beauty of the area and attention to environmental issues. Many people have voiced their opposition to these changes and their fears that Georgia's Jewel will be ruined.

I, as an owner of a rental property on Jekyll look forward to Jekyll's revival!

 

Glynn County & the Golden Isles of GA have long been known as a beautiful vacation spot for golfers, beach enthusiasts, fishermen, boaters and history buffs. In the near future our area may gain even more fame as the home of Cap Fendig. Mr. Fendig, a local St. Simons Island businessman and county commissioner, has just made an announcement that he intends to begin his campaign for the Presidency of the US! I don't have a clue if he has a possibility of achieving such a big aspiration; however, I must commend him for his courage in opening up his life to intense scrutiny and for being willing to expend his energies and monies in such a bold attempt to show his love of country. The Fendig families have long resided on St. Simons and are well respected in our area, so prepare yourself to hear more about Cap and his interest in diving into the political waters. 

 

As President Reagan once said:

 

Ronald Reagan (1911-2004)