| Rock 'n' roll is here to stay | |
| Date | April 07, 2010 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
The Rolling Stones said best: "It's only rock 'n' roll, but I like it."
The lyric is short, simple and dead-on. Several generations have agreed on
it.
Rock 'n' roll is something that has transcended time and space. It started
with the likes of Buddy Holly and Little Richard.
After them came The Beatles and then Led Zeppelin.
While many think that young adults today don't appreciate their parents'
music, that's simply not the case.
Like many children whose parents came of age with the Woodstock Generation,
Jessica Holloway has a thing for classic rock. It has played a huge role in the
life of the 28-year-old St. Simons Island resident.
"I was raised by a hippie-turned-pastor father, so we had all these great
influences, like The Doors, The Beatles, The Stones," she said.
But that wasn't the only type of music that Holloway picked up at home.
In addition to rock 'n' roll, she listened to gospel and folk music.
"We also listened to John Prine, as well. And other good folk music, like Bob
Dylan. There was just a huge variety," she said.
The mix helped Holloway come into her own as a musician. She plays the
keyboard and sings with the local group Marshland Groove. Her performance style
mimics her musical upbringing. That is, it mixes a little bit of everything.
"The huge variety totally influenced the way I play music. I call it
'eclectic soul.' That's the best way I can describe it. It's my parents kind of
music with a bluesy, Bonnie Raitt-ish feel to it. But I try to take a song and
make it mine," she said.
While she brings her individual style to her work, she thinks that old-school
rock will continue to influence musicians.
"I don't think that classic rock will ever die. It was the first of its kind.
No one had see anything like that before. All of the pop music now is just a
version of a classic," she said.
Jared Kuykendall agrees. The lead singer of the local band Honey Blue says
all music is an evolution.
"No one has come out with a completely new type of music. It all draws from
previous generations. So I would have to say there isn't a gap. The music of
today is just an evolution of our parents'," he said. "Mainstream and
non-mainstream musicians have influences from the generations of artists prior
to them."
He also thinks that pinning down the "music of today" is easier said that
done.
"There are what I would refer to as 'MTV artists,' like Lady Gaga, Kanye
West, and The Black Eyed Peas," he said.
"But there are artists that have a strong following that aren't a part of the
mainstream. Some that I personally listen to are Wilco, The Avett Brothers, and
Blitzen Trapper. Because of the Internet, bands whose sound does not fit in with
those on mainstream radio and television have another way to find an audience."
Kuykendall and Honey Blue have a lot of different influences. They draw from
alt-country acts like Ryan Adams, Wilco, The Old 97's and The Jayhawks.
But the group also relies heavily on the standard classic rock bands like The
Beatles, Rolling Stones and Neil Young.
"The Beatles and Neil Young are the two artists that my parents listened to
that are the biggest influence on me. I can remember listening to 'The White
Album' when I was 7 or 8 years old. At the same time I was listening to more
recent artists, like MC Hammer and Michael Jackson," Kuykendall said.
"The bands of my parents' generation have had a more lasting influence. I
still listen to those albums today. The kind of music that was popular when I
was younger only held my interest for a few years."
| |
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Rock and Roll is Here to Stay
Boomers Reflect on Icon
| Baby boomers contemplate meaning of a rock icon's milestone | |
| Date | June 27, 2012 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
Marcia Marinello was a teenager when she first laid eyes on a baby-faced Paul
McCartney and the rest of the Fab Four. The year was 1964.
Marinello, then growing up in Illinois, went to one of the Beatles' first
American concerts, at the Arie Crown Theater in Chicago. It is still a vivid
memory for the Darien resident.
"There were about 13,000 screaming kids. We were all pretty close to the
stage. That time was fairly early in their career, and it was their first U.S.
tour. Everyone sang the songs with them," she said.
But Marinello had the rare opportunity to see the greatest rock band in
history perform live not just once, but twice. She also took in their show in
1965 at Comiskey Park, then the home of the Chicago White Sox. It was a lucky
thing, as the road-weary group put an end to touring in 1966.
Marinello remembers the show being considerably larger than the first.
"There were probably 50,000 kids or more at that concert. They did have big
screens up, but the screams were so loud, nobody really heard anything. The
atmosphere was so electric, you didn't need to hear very well. We were all so
caught up in the moment," she said.
"I went with a group of girls, and we all baked cakes and brought them to the
concert for the Beatles to eat. We were so naive. I had binoculars with me to
see the stage better, and I remember almost being strangled by my younger cousin
who just had to see Ringo close up."
At the time Marinello and her pals took in the show, all of the Beatles were
in their early 20s. John Lennon and Ringo Starr - the elder members - were both
24 in 1964. McCartney was 22, and George Harrison was 21. Fast forward 48 years,
and two of the Beatles have died. Lennon was murdered in 1980 and Harrison died
of cancer in 2001.
The other two Beatles are now in their 70s. In fact, McCartney just marked
his 70th birthday June 18. Ringo Starr will ring in his 72nd on July 7.
For many baby boomers like Marinello, the fact the Beatles are officially
senior citizens is still a bit surreal. It seems especially hard to accept that
McCartney, who was branded the "cute Beatle," is now an "old man."
"It's hard to believe he is 70, since he looks so good and certainly acts
like a younger person," she said.
It is true McCartney, and Starr, for that matter, have continued to rock well
into what could have been their retirement years. But Marinello feels they are
just shining examples of a generation that refuses to be defined by conventional
stereotypes.
"Growing up in the '60s was such a different experience from what our parents
and grandparents went through. I remember participating in the protests, whether
it was for civil rights, saving the whales, ending the war or equality for
women," she said.
"What sobers me up is when I look back and start counting how many years ago
all that took place. I think most boomers are young at heart. If I don't look in
the mirror, I don't really think about my age. I still have a lot of living to
do."
That is a view shared by many boomers, a demographic of the post-World War II
baby boom between the years 1946 and 1964. Many don't feel or even look their
ages.
Local musician Eddie Pickett is one boomer who thinks staying active is the
best way to outsmart Father Time.
In his case, Pickett says music has kept him young.
"When I actually stop and take time to reflect on my life and actual age in
years, it can be sobering. But in my mind, and especially in terms of my musical
journey, I don't feel like I am really getting older. Â In fact, I actually
become more excited to think of what my next musical experience will entail.
That makes me feel young," he said. Â
He feels the same is likely true for McCartney.
"When I think of his age, in terms of actual years, it is hard to believe.
Where did time go? However, when I listen to his musical talent and his timeless
tunes, I lose sense of time. The music never stops. It continues on and still
keeps growing," Pickett said.
It can be argued the power of musical creativity can stave off the aging
process. Many musicians, even very wealthy rockers like members of the Rolling
Stones, the Who and Aerosmith, have chosen to continue to live in the spotlight
rather than fade into obscurity. Pickett can understand that. He feels music
helps to reinvigorate both performers and fans.
"The whole lifestyle of creating, performing, self expression, must have a
positive impact on your life and spirituality. Audiences are typically younger
at larger venues and the exuberance of the crowd has to have an impact on the
performer," he said.
"The crowds are also dotted with baby boomers - who have quite possibly never
grown up. Â The atmosphere relating to music is refreshing and rejuvenating -
downright rejoicing. How could it not make one feel young at heart?"
Sharon Proudfoot, a younger boomer, is another who rarely dwells on her
numerical age. But McCartney's recent birthday did force her to remember it.
"It's hard for me to think of him as 70 because my parents are in their 70s.
I listen to Beatles' and Paul McCartney & Wings' music all of the time.
I guess, unless I am playing it myself, I am finding it on an oldies station.
That should give me a clue," she said.
Staying engaged and active, like McCartney, has helped many of the baby
boomer generation stay fit - both physically and mentally. It's something
Proudfoot says she sees a lot in the Golden Isles.
"We have so many retirees or people who have left big-city life for
resort-community life. They're active and involved. Our community is fortunate
to have these folks," she said.
And it's something she tries to do herself by connecting with youngsters.
"I teach preschool Sunday School and work with children and youth at my
church, First Baptist Church St. Simons Island, and they definitely keep me
young - forcing me to keep up with their interests and language," she said.
Staying busy and active could be the trick that's keeping the children of the
'60s so hip. And it's something Sir Paul McCartney has done with his trademark
style and grace.
"His music is timeless and I think it's helping him stay that way, too,"
Proudfoot said.
| |
Paying Tribute to the Beatles
| Artists inspired for Beatles tribute | |
| Date | September 29, 2011 |
| Section(s) | Our Town |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
Lois Henry remembers that electric night in 1964 when the Beatles debuted on
the Ed Sullivan Show. Ever since, she's been an avid fan.
"I think that we liked their long hair and the fact that our parents didn't
like their long hair," she said.
When Henry had children of her own, she shared the love of the group with
them.
"My children have always been music fans and especially Beatles' fans. I
really like that," she said.
There are many families with the same story. The Fab Four has continued to
captivate audiences of various ages throughout the decades. In fact, it's this
interest that still surrounds the band that intrigued members of the Golden
Isles Arts and Humanities Association. Many of its members are just as
fascinated with the group.
That's why it decided to kick off the 2011-2012 Performing Arts Series with a
big fete honoring the Lads from Liverpool. There will be an art exhibit, titled
the "Magical Mystery Tour," featuring works of artists inspired by the Beatles.
When the association put out a call for artists months ago, Henry couldn't
resist. The owner of Color Me Happy in downtown Brunswick created a plate with
her interpretation of John Lennon's self portrait along with her favorite quote.
"It's my favorite John Lennon quote but also just my overall favorite - 'life
is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans,'" she said. "So I
wrote that on the plate."
Like Henry, Ian Kaszans couldn't wait to create something for the show.
"My dad was a big Beatles fan, so I can remember the upbeat music throughout
my childhood," he said. "As an artist, I am inspired by different opportunities
to create images. The 'Magical Mystery Tour' exhibit allowed me to focus on the
era and message of the Beatles, and to create three different ideas in three
different mediums."
Kaszans has submitted an illustration, a mixed media wood carving and a
watercolor painting. For all three, Kaszans was able to create bold images with
plenty of 1960s-esque inspiration.
In addition to Henry and Kaszans, the exhibit will feature an eclectic array
of more than 30 artistic interpretations by artists of all ages. Rob Nixon
expects a huge variety.
"Local artist Anne Goodstein submitted a collage based on the song 'She's
Leaving Home' from the Sgt. Peppers album, and her company, H2O Creative Group,
is doing a photo reminiscent of the Abbey Road cover," Nixon said.
"Painter Lanny Brewster has created a landscape inspired by 'Lucy in the Sky
with Diamonds.' Athens-based musician Rob McMaken with the group Dromedary,
which has played at the Ritz and elsewhere in Brunswick a number of times,
contributed a photo montage of his 2-year-old son Finnegan, who one day put
together an impromptu shrine to the Beatles in his room."
There will be 10 to 15 pieces from the art class at Brunswick High School, as
well. In fact, Nixon himself felt compelled to get in on the exhibit. He created
a mock-up of a paperback book that is a takeoff on the song "Paperback Writer"
referencing different Beatles songs, either in lyrics or titles.
The exhibit is not the only way GIAHA is paying homage to the biggest band of
all time. On Oct. 7, the same night as the gallery opening, the group will play
host to the tribute band Yesterday.
The response has big huge, he said.
"We've been getting a lot of calls and drop-ins for tickets, even before
publicity has gotten out there very widely. So word of mouth has already caught
on big. It looks like this is going to be a very popular show, so we're advising
people to get their tickets early," he said.
That's because the staying power of the Beatles will likely bring in a huge
crowd eager to celebrate the band's legacy.
"The Beatles remain the most influential and best-known group of all time,
and their appeal cuts across generations. People who were around in the '60s
still love them, and there have been new generations since then who love the
music and everything the Beatles represented," Nixon said. "It's not just
nostalgia - it's music that is still very much alive and fresh for people all
over the world."
Check it out
* Beatles Night in downtown Brunswick will begin with an opening reception
for the Magical Mystery Tour art exhibit from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 7 at the Ritz
Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. The pieces will be on display from 10
a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday through
Oct. 29. Admission to the exhibit is free.
* The celebration continues with Yesterday: A Tribute to The Beatles at 8
p.m. Oct. 7 at the Ritz. Tickets are $15 to $25 adults and $10-$20 seniors,
depending on member status and date of purchase. For those 18 and under tickets
are $5. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 262-6934 or visit
www.goldenislesarts.org.
| |
Will you Still Need Me, Will you Still Feed Me?
| When I'm 64 | |
| Date | September 15, 2010 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
| Paul McCartney was 15 years old when he started playing around with the music
and lyrics to the Beatles' hit "When I'm Sixty-Four." It was meant to be a
salute to his musician father (who was actually only 54 when the song was
written) and his 1920s-era cabaret style.
The younger "narrator" in the song envisions an idyllic life growing old with
his love. He seeks a long-term promise of commitment and wants reassurance that
she will still "need him" when he's 64. When McCartney penned those now iconic
verses more than four decades ago, 64 seemed far away and a distant expectation.
But time has a way of changing things. McCartney, himself, is now 68, and
even though he's led a charmed life, it certainly hasn't been perfect.
He lost his first wife, Linda, to cancer. Two of his Beatles band mates have
died, one violently. He went through a messy divorce from Heather Mills a few
years back.
Of course, he still has plenty of money and fame. But it just goes to show
that life is never predictable. Even all the wealth in the world can't guarantee
happiness.
Like McCartney, others who grew up with the song are reaching their 64th
years. The oldest of the baby boomers, who were 21 years old when the Beatles
released "When I'm Sixty-Four" in 1967 on their "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts
Club Band" album, this year are, in fact, 64.
Like the former Beatle himself, many have taken twists and turns on the road
of life. Now they have a different take on the classic tune than they did when
they were younger.
Gary Share, owner of City Music is not quite 64, but he is a self-proclaimed
Beatles fanatic. The song has a special meaning for him now.
"I remember when Paul McCartney turned 64. I thought that it was pretty cool.
He's still singing that song. I think it's cool that he's still singing that
song. I'm sure when he wrote it, he never thought he'd be singing it at that
age," Share said.
He's also noticed that his view on the song has changed, too. There is one
line in particular that strikes him differently: "Grandchildren on your knee."
"It's neat the way your views change on things. When, in the song, he's
talking about having the grandchildren on your knee ... I've got seven
grandchildren now and one on the way," he said.
"That's become more important to me. Those are the real gifts in life, much
more important than things. Things change as you get older."
Lanny Grammar, who teaches drums and percussion, feels the same. His daughter
will have his first grandchild in the spring. He thinks that the song is a
timeless testament to the aging process.
"It really is timeless and it transcends all the decades. It's still a great
song and a great message. I mean, let's face it, 'will you still need me when
I'm 64?'"
Doug Lampkin's views on the song have changed since he first heard it in
1967.
"I was 17 or 18 when it came out, and I was living in Virginia. It was a hip
place to be. Virginia Beach was one of the hippest places on the East Coast," he
said.
"I was playing in a rock band, so that song had some weight on me. At the
time, I honestly didn't think I'd live that long."
Lampkin and his wife Patrice own Murphy's Tavern on St. Simons Island. Now he
is 62 and will reach the milestone in just two years.
"It was more light-hearted when I was younger. I loved the song, but I never
related to it back then," he said. "I can definitely relate to it a lot more
now. It gives you a nostalgic look back now."
Think about it
Some lyrics of "When I'm Sixty-Four" to ponder:
* "When I get older losing my hair,/Many years from now./Will you still be
sending me a Valentine/Birthday greetings bottle of wine."
* "... Will you still need me, will you still feed me,/When I'm sixty-four."
* "You'll be older too,/And if you say the word,/I could stay with you."
* "... We shall scrimp and save/Grandchildren on your knee."
| |
Seniors Face Uncertain Future
| Facing an uncertain future | |
| Date | March 24, 2010 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
Like millions of others (or about 25 percent of the nation's population),
she is in foreign territory.
"My parents never worried that Medicare or Social Security would not be there
for them when they reached the age of 65 and older. That's all I think about,"
she said.
Davis is also concerned about her children and grandchildren.
"My father always said that each generation would see a brighter future than
the one before. Today that is not true. I worry terribly for my children and
grandchildren. The debts that have been placed on them by our government are
enormous," Davis said.
There is also the trouble of retirement funds for the boomers themselves.
Many of those persons born between 1946 and 1964 are hoping to exit the work
force in the near future. But a recession-sparked volatile economy has left
Davis questioning whether she and her peers will be able to retire.
"There is little return on the money that we saved for our future and the
future of our children. Instead of being able to enjoy retirement and the
remaining years of our life, we will be living frugally to make sure we will not
become a burden on our children. Right now, it looks as if our children's
generation will be swapping diapers for Depends. What a legacy," she said.
But it is possible to retire in a difficult financial climate. Mike and Joy
Elliott have recently done it. Of course, it took a lot of work.
"Joy and I planned our retirement and saved before the economy went bad. We
were hurt during the initial downturn of the stock market. However, we have
recovered as the market has recovered," Mike Eliliott said.
"We did not do something stupid like pull all our money out. We had some big
losses that will never recover, such as Lehman Brothers. We have worked hard to
be debt free."
But the Elliots have definitely noticed the effect the economy is having on
other baby boomers.
"Many will be working much longer, which will continue to hurt younger
earners and cause the economy to remain stagnate. Older workers will not be
buying goods. They will be eliminating debt. They must recover the value lost in
the (stock) market," he said.
"They will save whatever is not required for subsistence or debt reduction.
If their plan was to have a big house and use real estate appreciation for their
savings, they will not retire for many years."
Boomers across the nation are doing just that.
Ed Van Herik, a spokesperson for the American Association of Retired Persons,
said the organization is seeing a large number of boomers holding off on
retirement or re-entering the work force.
"Retirement investments have suffered heavily, although some have seen it
come back. It was a significant amount (of money) that was lost," he said.
"All of the elements came together to create a series of situations that
caused a number of baby boomers to postpone retirement or rethink what
retirement means.
"It is not uncommon today to hear people say they'll be working longer or
taking a look at other options, like working a part-time job."
| |
Remembering the First Passover
| Passover | |
| Date | March 23, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Religion |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
"This is where you put the matzah. There is a separate plate for the
matzah," she said, gesturing to a square plate. "And on this plate, you have a
boiled egg, a lamb bone, haroseth which is apple and nuts, bitter herbs,
horseradish."
She continued listing the items as she moved around the plate, naming each
item. "Everything has its place and it's all symbolic," Simpson said.
It's all part of the Seder (which means "order" in Hebrew) service which
accompanies one of the most important days in Judaism - Passover. Beginning
Monday, Simpson and Jews around the world will mark the week-long celebration
which commemorates the Hebrews exodus out of Egypt. It will begin at sundown,
with the Passover Seder.
For Simpson and other members of Temple Beth Tefiloh in Brunswick, the meal
will be a time to reflect on the story of their ancestors. The Seder is a ritual
performed by a community or by generations of a family.
Simpson says that a visiting rabbi, Rabbi Marshal Klaven, and student rabbi
Matt Zerwekh, representatives of the Southern Institute of Jewish Life, will
conduct the service when they arrive in Brunswick as a park of their Passover
pilgrimage.
"They are going throughout the South, visiting temples that don't have a
resident rabbi," she said. "So this year, we will have a community seder."
During the service, they will continue the practice that has been a tradition
dating back thousands of years. And the items involved in the service help to
underscore the history and trials of the Hebrew people.
Simpson says everything used - from the matzah or unleven bread to the
parsley or bitter herbs - has a meaning. Each item is used to reinforce the
story of Moses and the Exodus.
Approximately 3,300 years ago, as told in the first 15 chapters of the Book
of Exodus, Moses was a prince among the Egyptians after being rescued from the
Nile by a princess. He was really the son of a Hebrew slave girl who placed him
in a basket, sending him downstream and hopefully to a better life. Once Moses
grew up, he observed the harsh treatment of the Hebrews under Egyptian rule and
learned of his true origin. Then, Moses decided to join the Hebrew slaves.
God favored Moses and chose him to lead the Hebrews out of bondage. God sent
nine plagues on the land of Egypt. When the Pharaoh still refused to let the
Hebrews leave, God sent the 10th plague - the death of the first born son of all
Egyptians. To avoid falling victim to the Angel of Death, God commanded Moses
and the Hebrews to slaughter and eat a roasted paschal lamb which symbolizes the
Passover sacrifice. God also instructed the Hebrews to spread the blood of the
paschal lamb on the door posts and on the beam above the door of their houses.
This was a signal to the angels to pass over the Hebrews' homes.
Since then, Jews have marked this event at the Passover Seder. For the first
half of the Seder, each participant will only need a plate and a wine glass. At
the head of the table is a Seder plate containing various symbolic foods that
will be eaten or pointed out during the course of the Seder.
Other parts of the meal include dishes of salt water used to represent tears
of the Hebrews. Each member also has a Haggadah, a small book explaining the
course of the dinner. Candles are also used and a door is commonly left open to
welcome in the prophet Elijah.
All of these aspects, Simpson says, help to reinforce the important story of
faith.
"It gives us a chance every year to honor our history and remember where we
came from," she said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about
lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or
at 265-8320, ext. 316.
Breakout:
What's on a seder plate?
* Maror and Chazeret: two types of bitter herbs, symbolizing the bitterness
and harshness of the slavery. For maror, many people use freshly grated
horseradish or whole horseradish root. Chazeret is typically romaine lettuce,
whose roots are bitter-tasting.
* Charoset: This is sweet, brown, pebbly paste of fruits and nuts,
representing the mortar used by the Jewish slaves to build the storehouses of
Egypt.
* Karpas: A vegetable other than bitter herbs, usually parsley but sometimes
something such as celery or cooked potato.
* Zeroa: A roasted lamb or goat bone, symbolizing the korban Pesach (Pesach
sacrifice), which was a lamb's blood used during the 10th plague.
* Beitzah: A hard boiled egg, symbolizing the korban chagigah (festival
sacrifice) that was offered in the Temple in Jerusalem and was then eaten as
part of the meal on Seder night.
| |
What to do When Tragedy Strikes
Culture to be Showcased
| Culture to take center stage | |
| Date | April 04, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Our Town |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
David Loehle isn't afraid to try new things. It's what prompted him to enroll
in a sweetgrass basket making class at Glynn Art on St. Simons Island.
Since that time, creating the coiled works of art has become a passion for
Loehle.
"The class was taught by a woman who lives on Sapelo (Island) and makes them.
It's not really hard, but it's very time consuming," the St. Simons Island
resident said. "I usually compare it to something like knitting. The very small
ones will take two to three hours. But the bigger ones, depending how fancy you
get, can take anywhere to 20 to 30 hours."
In learning how to make the baskets, Loehle was helping to preserve a
tradition that dates back to the 1600s in America, and even longer in Africa.
The basket-weaving or sewing technique was brought to the Colonies by West
African slaves. The baskets were first used to winnow rice and store dry goods
such as vegetables, corn, herbs, dried grain and fish.
Today, these baskets can be artistic and elaborate rather than simply
functional.
It's the kind of basket Loehle sells through his business Barrier Island
Baskets and has displayed at the gallery at Glynn Art.
But on April 12, he will be showcasing his work at another venue - the One
World, Many Faces: International Culture & Food Festival.
The event, to be held at the College of Coastal Georgia, will showcase art,
food and entertainment from a variety of cultures.
Loehle is excited about participating in the event.
"They called me up and invited me. I think it should be really interesting,"
he said.
The baskets won't be the only art on display. There will also be jewelry,
paintings and other crafts.
Debbie Dowdy, owner of Muddy Goat Pottery, will share her pottery during the
event.
Of course, it's familiar territory for her.
"I taught at the college and it's going to be great to be back on campus
after being there for 30 years," she said. "I make these things called bottle
heads and I'm also bringing lidded jars with the Om symbol and peace symbols on
top, as well as some functional pottery."
Like others who are attending, Dowdy likes the idea of cultural unity.
"It sounded like a really fun event," she said.
Tasty treats will be another feature, from Cuban to Greek to Chinese -
something to suit every palette, organizers say.
Vanassa Kinney, owner of Synergy Wellness, will bring something unique -
vegetarian African food. Like last year, Kinney is hoping to share her knowledge
with others.
"Last year, I prepared African inspired dishes and the response was positive.
Many came back for seconds and there was an interest in learning more about the
variety of spices used in African cooking. This year, I will be serving
vegetable and bean dishes common to Senegal and Kenya," she said.
A familiar Southern staple - peanuts - are also on the menu, she says.
"Rice and peanuts, just to name a few, are staples in many African countries.
Coastal Georgia has a history of rice plantations and throughout Georgia peanut
farms can be found. We will not forget Dr. George Washington Carver, who
discovered hundreds of uses for the peanut, or former President Jimmy Carter,
who was a peanut farmer."
For Kinney, sharing similar connections between cultures has always been
important.
"Cultural exchanges are important because during these exchanges we find a
common ground that unites all of humanity," she said.
And sharing this common thread of humanity is the goal of the festival.
Bruce Whitmore, president of Abbott Institute, which spearheaded the event,
and a festival task force member, says the festival is both educational and
celebratory.
Student groups from the college will help stage salsa and other dance
lessons.
"Part of the institute's stated mission is to actively support the vision of
racial and religious harmony, as well as social justice, by sponsoring events
throughout the year," Whitmore said. "An annual festival is an ideal opportunity
to foster relationships between peoples of varying multicultural backgrounds.
"Although our first festival last year drew a surprisingly large crowd, we
have worked to expand the international flavor for this year's event."
The festival, which will be set up on the backside of the campus adjacent to
the tennis courts, will offer a perfect setting to take in all the event has to
offer. Visitors will check in to get information about the various activities as
well as purchase tickets for the nearby food court.
"A large dining area will be set up near the main stage so that people can
eat and watch the entertainment at the same time. Nearby is the marketplace
which will feature a wider selection of goods from many lands," Whitmore said.
"On the other side of the pine trees is the recently-completed lake-side
pavilion which will house exhibitors and also provide a second performance
area."
All in all, the day will be one to embrace differences while promoting
understanding.
"Our goal is to expand the festival each year to more fully reflect the
cultural diversity of our area. As people gain a sense of belonging to a rich
and vibrant multicultural community and appreciate how these cultures have
shaped our collective character, our community will become more unified and an
even better place to live," he said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about
lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or
at 265-8320, ext. 316.
Breakout:
The One World, Many Faces: International Culture and Food Festival, will be
held from 2 to 7 p.m. April 12. The event will include an ethnic food court, a
marketplace of artisan wares, performances and an art exhibit.
| |
Parents Make Schedules Click
| Parents find schedules essential | |
| Date | April 03, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
| Kimberly and Karl Burgess are like a lot of other young couples - they are busy people. Between their demanding jobs - she works as an admissions director at College of Coastal Georgia, and he is a program manager with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources - they can barely find a minute to breathe. Then there is Jackson, their 2-year-old. While their son obviously brings immeasurable joy to their lives, extra duties and responsibilities come along, too. Since Jackson was born, everything about the Burgesses' life changed, and they made sure it changed for the better. "Being an active parent is the most important part of my life," Kimberly Burgess said. "Although, I have a job that requires me to travel and work on occasional weekends, I take every opportunity to spend time with my child," she said. "I never want him to look back and wonder where his momma was when he was a child, and I never want to be at work when I could be with him." Even so, the Burgesses, like so many others, have found a way to make room in their jam-packed schedules for everything. The key for them is teamwork. "We make sure we alternate days on who picks Jackson up (from day care). For instance, I pick him up on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, which allows me to go to the gym on Mondays and Wednesdays. The same is true for my husband, who has his time to work out, relax at home, etc., on Tuesdays and Thursdays," Kimberly Burgess said. They also say that having understanding bosses at work helps, because another rule they have created is leaving work at work. This, she says, allows them to give their full attention to their son and to one another. "We don't bring work home. When we are home, we give 100 percent of our time to Jackson until he goes to bed, and then we have time for ourselves. Family time is time you never get back. We can always catch up on work," she said. "On the weekends, we plan for one of the days to be a 100 percent family fun day - we go to the park, beach or the playground." Making the transition from carefree coupledom to practical parenthood isn't easy. And like the Burgesses found, it takes patience, dedication and, perhaps, most of all, devotion to a schedule. "We spend the afternoons watching his favorite shows, eating dinner together, bath time, and then bedtime by 8 p.m.," Kimberly Burgess said. "It is at this time we have time to ourselves to clean, do housework, check emails, or just rest. (Jackson's) routine keeps us busy, but allows us to give 100 percent to him." Clearing time for children doesn't end when the little ones pass their toddler years. It continues throughout their lives, especially when the children are old enough to have interests of their own. For the Brewer Family, parenting for Chris and Debbie Brewer means that involvement and interest is the way to keep everyone close. Chris Brewer, a contractor, says it's the main way that he spends time with their 15-year-old daughter, Ashley. "The biggest challenge is juggling my work schedule, her dance schedule, homework and the regular day-to-day," the Brunswick dad said. "Ashley is a freshman at Glynn Academy and a dancer at Southern Strut Dance Studio. She starts practice for her dance season in the summer - dances three to four days per week, including weekends, until the first ballet in February, then transitions to (out of town) dance competitions until the end of spring ... ending with back-to-back recitals at the beginning of summer." To make sure that Ashley makes all of her practices and events, the Brewers enlist the help of other family members. "We, as parents, have to schedule our off time around her activities, as well as enlist help from her grandmothers, but she loves her dance and we love watching her," Chris Brewer said. Diana Walther, a Brunswick psychologist and a mother of five, says the Brewer Family's approach is right on track. "I believe that extracurricular activities are great for kids, in terms of building self-confidence and keeping them involved in positive activities while parents are at work. Of course, parents should make every effort to attend games, recitals, when children demonstrate the skills they are learning," she said. But parents are also learning along the way. Walther says that sitting down to map out priorities like house work and other chores can help moms and dads stay focused. "While housework is necessary, some things can be put off until later while parents spend time with the kids. It is so true that children grow up quickly, and I don't think parents will ever regret spending time with them," she said. Instead, Walther says, parents can get children involved in the house work. Divvying up duties can have double benefits for children - teaching responsibility while helping parents keep everything under control. While inclusion is important for children, finding adult time is equally critical. Walther says couples should take some guilt-free getaways to help maintain healthy relationships. "They will be happier and more effective parents if they take care of themselves, which includes taking some breaks from work and parenting in order to do something fun and relaxing," she said. "Working parents should not feel guilty for spending some time with each other or spending some time alone. This will help the whole family in the long run." * Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or at 265-8320, ext. 316. | |
Dancers to Groove in Isles
| African step dancing troupe coming to the Isles | |
| Date | February 14, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Our Town |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
The dancers of Step Afrika put on quite a show. And, come Friday, they will
be bringing their moves to the Golden Isles.
Based in Washington, D.C., the professional step dancing group will be
traveling to the College of Coastal Georgia in Brunswick where they have a
performance slated for Friday.
The group's founder and executive director Brian Williams is certainly
looking forward to the trip South, where the dancers hope to entertain as well
as teach.
"Step Afrika is the first professional company of step dancers in the world.
This is our 19th year performing and teaching ... not only by performing and
preserving (step dancing) but also using it as a motivational tool for
students," he said.
Those students come in a variety of ages from the elementary level to
college, where stepping was originated.
"We love bringing our performances to college students and campuses, which
was the place where stepping was born," Williams said. "And a lot of colleges
don't have strong presence from organizations that created step."
Those organizations were the African-American fraternities and sororities,
which popularized the stepping in the mid-20th century. These young men and
women used their bodies as an instrument for creating intricate rhythms and
sounds. The dancers employ a combination of footsteps, claps and spoken word in
their routines. All of these elements came together to form the dance.
But Williams says the troupe takes it one "step" further.
"The cool thing about Step Afrika is that - not only do we show the
traditional style of stepping - but we merge the female and male traditions into
one. We play with stepping and use the whole body. We use really complex
rhythms," Williams said. "We also like to highlight other traditional dances
like the gumboot dance used by miners in the South Africa and the traditional
Zulu dance."
Step Afrika has taken these talents all around the globe. They have performed
on many stages in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Stateside, the group
frequently partners with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and
the Washington Performing Arts Society. These dancers have graced some of
America's most prestigious stages from the White House to the Lincoln Center in
New York City.
For her part, Heidi Leming, vice president of Student Affairs with the
College of Coastal Georgia in Brunswick, is excited to have such a prestigious
group make an appearance.
"We are trying to start a new tradition at the college where we bring in
different signature entertainers for Black History Month. We were looking to
bring performers and I had brought in Step Afrika at another organization that I
was working with," she said.
Being familiar with the group, Leming could attest to their performing
prowess. And since the local college has no African-American sororities or
fraternities to perform their own step shows, she feels that it will be a great
benefit to the students.
"We don't have those groups, who would be naturally doing the step shows,
here. So we have two goals with bringing them here - one is to promote the
cultural and historical background of stepping. The other is to expose our
students to a different kind of opportunity that they wouldn't have otherwise,"
she said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about
lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or
at 265-8320, ext. 316.
Breakout:
Step Afrika will perform at 8 p.m. Friday at the Coffin Gym at the College of
Coastal Georgia in Brunswick. The $10 general admission tickets are available at
the Lighthouse Bookstore in the Campus Center. Details: 279.5972.
| |
Preparing for Lent
| A sign of repentance | |
| Date | February 09, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Religion |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
Like many Christians, the Rev. Alan Akridge is preparing for the arrival of
Lent. As rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Brunswick, it's a special time
for him and his congregation, as well as faithful around the world.
"For liturgical Christians, the season of Epiphany is followed by Lent, which
recalls Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness, when we fast and focus on the
penitential aspects of our faith. Over time, in order to prepare for this
season, Christians celebrated on advance of this season because they needed to
rid their homes of the temptations inside," he said.
In earlier times, removing these temptations resulted in Fat Tuesday or Mardi
Gras, an event that's still marked today.
"(It) resulted from so many of us ridding our homes of sweet things - pancake
suppers - and alcohol, etc., which got in the way of the discipline of Lent,"
Akridge said.
Lent will begin this week, with Ash Wednesday. Akridge says that it's a
pivotal time in the Lenten season.
"On Ash Wednesday, we draw the sign of the cross in ashes - gained from the
burning of palms from the precious Palm Sunday - on the foreheads of our ranks
and add the words, 'Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,'"
he said.
The passage comes from Genesis 3:19. The Rev. John Stephens, senior minister
at Wesley United Methodist Church at Frederica, says the passage often reminds
Christians of their mortality.
"For me, Lent is important, because we all need to prepare fully for the
message of resurrection in our lives. We can't really appreciate the need for
resurrection if we don't spend time reflecting on our fallen nature and our
mortality. This reflection is best accomplished through practices of self-denial
and prayer," he said.
Ash Wednesday has been an observed in Roman Catholic rituals since the fifth
century.
As groups broke away from the Catholic Church, some added the rite to their
services. Stephens says that Methodists did this early on.
"United Methodists have observed Ash Wednesday since our beginning. Some
Protestant churches have not participated in seasons of preparation, like Lent
and Advent, because they think it somehow identifies them too closely to Roman
Catholicism," he said.
"The practices of self-denial, fasting, prayer and penance are scriptural
principles, not Roman Catholic principles. It is unfortunate that so many
Protestants don't practice these holy seasons and disciplines simply because
they don't want to be associated too closely with other traditions of
Christianity."
Wesley United Methodist Church will have an Ash Wednesday service at 6:30
p.m. Wednesday. Like many other churches, it will be a solemn occasion.
"At Wesley, we will gather at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary with solemn music,
time for prayer and reflection, and the marking of foreheads with ashes. Some
will commit to a fast for the 40 days leading up to Easter," he said.
Like Stephens, the Rev. Bert Cramer has observed Ash Wednesday for many
years. The pastor of Altama Presbyterian Church in Brunswick says that it's an
important step in preparation of Easter.
"It's the beginning of Lent, and it helps ups get ready. It's good to use Ash
Wednesday to pause and look at where we are," Cramer said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about
lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or
at 265-8320, ext. 316.
| |
Where there's a will ...
| Bands give support to fellow musicians | |
| Date | January 31, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Our Town |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
|
The day in early January started off as many others had. Jessica Holloway was
driving to meet her friend and Soul Gravy band-mate, Will Gore. But before she
arrived at Gore's recording studio, she received an upsetting phone call.
"I was actually driving to meet Will to lay down some vocals when he called
to say, 'Don't bother coming, because someone had broken into the studio and
stolen all of the recording equipment,'" said Holloway, the band's singer and
key board player. "Of course, I went anyway, for moral support."
What she discovered was that about $10,000 worth of equipment the band was
using to create its first album had been taken from the studio in McIntosh
County. Gore, who provides vocals and lead guitar for Soul Gravy, is also
responsible for the mixing and mastering the group's original songs.
Both Holloway and Gore were, understandably, devastated. But after the
initial disappointment, Holloway decided to turn the negative into something
positive.
"Of course, we were upset and depressed. But then you start thinking about
it, and, you're like, 'OK how can I make this better?'" she said. That was when
the idea surfaced to have a concert to raise money to replace some of the
uninsured equipment.
"It was actually Josh Nunn of (the band) Defunk who came up with the idea to
host a small music festival" she said. "So, at the beginning, it was like
planning a trip - you get your dates, place and go from there."
Holloway named the benefit "Where There's a Will, There's a Way." The date
she chose for it - Saturday - is almost at hand. Lining up donations and talent
came next.
"I really didn't have to do anything. I just had to tell people that I wanted
to do it and when. Then all of these people wanted to help," she said. "It was
really overwhelming."
Holloway was able to line up several bands to perform, beginning at 1 p.m
Saturday in the courtyard at Golden Isles Marina. Holloway also brought in Jeff
Montaigne, owner of Coastal Kitchen at the marina, to help.
"These guys are my friends, and, as a musician, I've played with them for a
while," Montaigne said. "I have a lot of experience in hosting events and
festivals, so I wanted to help. It's great to be able to help out."
Several bands will lend their talents. The schedule begins at 1 p.m. with
Jeff & Brooke from Live Bottom Groove. At 1:30 p.m., DeFunk will take
the stage, followed by Ambrosious at 2:50 p.m. The Matt Williams Trio will start
at 4:10 p.m., and Soul Gravy will perform at 5:30 p.m.
In addition to the performers' time, Holloway received gift card donations
from more than 20 restaurants for a raffle.
SBlt Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes
about lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on
Facebook or at 265-8320, ext. 316.
If you go
"Where There's a Will There's a Way" will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday in the
courtyard of Golden Isles Marina, on Lanier Island at the F.J. Torras Causeway
and the Frederica River. Five bands will play until 7 p.m. Admission is $10 per
person. All admission proceeds and a portion of drink sales will go toward
helping the band Soul Gravy replace equipment taken in a burglary.
| |
Passing on lessons
| Author passes along family heritage through lessons | |
| Date | February 06, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Generations |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISON The Brunswick News |
| Gayle Bowman has always worked to instill a sense of history in her children, but it hasn't always been easy. As an African-American, there are many pieces of her family's collective past that aren't pretty. Even so, it was important for her to share all of these stories with her daughters -- Sterling Bowman-Randall, 22, and Carmen Bowman-Randall, 18. It was a practice she started when the girls were very young. "Carmen once asked me why she and I were white and Sterling and Daddy were black. I told her that we were all black, and that God makes people in all shades of colors," she said. "It was at that time that I told them about our family's -- their paternal grandfather's side mixed heritage, and also about slavery and the civil rights struggle. I guess they were about 6 and 10 when we had our first serious discussion of any significance." As they got older, Bowman continued to discuss more age-appropriate topics dealing with history -- especially black history. "Sterling even met Rosa Parks when she was a baby," she said. Starting the conversation when the children were young was crucial, but, at the same time, she didn't want to frighten or upset her children. That's why Bowman, who is also a children's author with a book about African-American inventors, was very selective about what she told her girls and when. Above all, though, she was always honest with her girls. "It's important that they understand what happened during slavery and the Civil Rights particularly on those whose shoulders we all stand, those who made sometimes life-threatening sacrifices for the sake of freedom, peace, basic human rights and equality," she said. To teach them these stories, Bowman started a basic black history course in her own home. That included books and movies -- though she says that she always encouraged reading more than watching television. And she made sure the messages was getting through. "If I felt my children weren't paying attention to a book or historical movie I made them watch, they would have to write a paragraph about what they learned. It's hard to push reading in middle or high school. That influence needs to come early," she said. It is also displaying photographs, some of which were disturbing. "I purchased two signs with my daughters in mind: A light switch plate that says, 'If you think you have it tough, think about the work Harriet Tubman had to do,' and an authentic Jim Crow era sign that reads, 'Colored Served By Carry Out Only,'" she said. "There are also pictures of slaves, a whip and a trough that the slave children ate from like pigs on the floor. I have also told them stories my parents told me about segregation in the South." The family has traced their history back even farther. Bowman's great-uncle has gone as far as the last generation in slavery and she's making sure that her children will keep their heritage alive. "I'm helping him fill in the gaps. My sister traced my father's side back to the 1700s. It's important for children and adults to learn their family history as well as that of other notables in their own races. This type of research fosters an appreciation of lineage and provides information to pass on to the future generations," she said. "One of my sisters and I have kept, and have passed on our father's last name to our children in order to keep the Bowman name alive," she said. "My generation -- and there are no males with Bowman as a last name -- is the last of the Bowmans. I believe that if children have something to be proud of, perhaps something or someone positive to align themselves with, they will be in a better position to have a higher level of self-esteem and a desire to set challenging goals for themselves." This is why Bowman hopes other African-American families will take the time to teach their children about the past. But they are not alone. It's important, she says, for everyone to appreciate the struggles and accomplishments of one's fellow man. "It's important that parents teach their children about all races and cultures in addition to their own. Doing so, I believe, minimizes the belief and perpetuation of negative stereotypes and racists thoughts/remarks. It's important to share our history, not just for black children's sake, but for all children," she said. * Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or at 265-8320, ext. 316. | |
Friday, April 5, 2013
Elvis mania
| 'Elvis' is back, to fans' delight | |
| Date | March 15, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Local News |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISONThe Brunswick News |
Vickie May stood in the evening sunlight, in a crowd gathered at Mary Ross Waterfront Park in downtown Brunswick.
Clad in a bright red jacket with the face of Elvis Presley emblazoned in glitter, she fit right in.
Like so many others, May traveled to Brunswick for one reason: to celebrate the King of Rock and Roll at the Georgia ElvisFestival.
"I'm from Tampa, Fla., and I try not to miss any of the Elvis festivals. I'm the president and founder of the Tampa Bay Elvis Fan Club and I have my own Elvis festival there," she said.
May was right at home with the other Elvis faithful who gathered to kick off the four-day contest that lasts through Sunday. Dressed in a variety of Elvis gear - hats, shirts and jackets - the chill in the air did little to dampen the fiery mood as the festival got off to a rousing start.
Fans converged on Mary Ross Waterfront Park at Gloucester and Bay streets for a free concert by two of the festival headliners - Cliff Wright and Ted Torres - and the master of ceremonies, Irv Cass.
Several of the other tribute artists - complete with jet black hair, long sideburns and trademark tans - milled about the crowd. The audience sang and danced while Wright, Torres and Cass belted out some of Presley's most popular songs.
And there's more to come. Throughout the weekend, more than 30 Elvis Presley tribute artists will be performing at the Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St. in downtown Brunswick, and various pocket parks.
Both professional and non-professional performers will take to the stage at the Ritz Theatre to compete for a chance to compete in the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in August in Memphis, Tenn.
Standing in the crowd Thursday were a few of the judges who will be making that selection. Though they have a challenge ahead, Janette DiRenzo of New Jersey, Nereida How of New York and JoAnn Cruz of Tennessee were excited to get the ball rolling.
"We volunteer to do this. We fly across the country," Cruz said. "And we're really glad to be here. Every one has been so nice."
Jason Sherry, festival producer, agreed, saying, "We've never had a place that's given us the reception that we've gotten here. It's been great.
"I've already gotten the Ritz on hold, tentatively for March 2014, so we can come back and do it again."
The festival has been highly anticipated. Excited chatter and fliers announcing its arrival began circulating a few months ago.
The excitement grew when several of the performers made appearances at Tipsy McSway's, 1414 Newcastle St., downtown Brunswick, in the days leading up to the festival, much to the delight of locals as much as those who traveled to attend the festival.
James Laurens was one of those who caught a sneak peak at the tribute artists.
"I'm not going to be able to go to a lot of it, but I'm excited about this very different event for the area," Laurens said.
As a casual Elvis fan, the St. Simons Island resident appreciates the music and is glad to see this type of event come to the area.
"I'm really excited that it's going to be a fun event here, and the potential other things that could come from it," he said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or at 265-8320, ext. 316.
The festival
The Georgia Elvis Festival includes:
* Today - Round 1 of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., downtown. Tickets $20 to $30. Free "Elvis in Old Town" performances from 4 to 7 p.m. in downtown squares. "Raised on Rock" concert at 8 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre with headliners Ted Torres, Cliff Wright, Irv Cass and the Change of Habit band. Tickets $49 to $89.
* Saturday - Elvis classic car parade at 9 a.m. begins at the Ritz Theatre. Round 2 of the contest from 10 a.m. to at 4 p.m. Tickets $20 to $30. Free "Elvis in Old Town" performances from 4 to 7 p.m. in downtown squares. "One Night ... Remembered," a celebration of the of the 45th anniversary of Elvis' 1968 comeback special, at 8 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre. Tickets $49 to $89.
* Sunday - Free Elvis gospel contest from 9 to 11 a.m. at Mary Ross Waterfront Park. Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest finals from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre. Tickets from $25 to $35.
Tickets are available at 888-406-5885 or online at georgiaelvisfestival.com.
| |
Elvis is in the building
| 'The King' rules the city | |
| Date | March 16, 2013 |
| Section(s) | Local News |
| Byline | By LINDSEY ADKISONThe Brunswick News |
The darkened theater erupted in applause Friday as GaryElvis Britt hit the final note of "How Great Though Art."
"Thank ya, thank ya very much," he told the crowd in trademark Elvis Presley tones as he exited the stage.
As Britt, who legally changed his first name to GaryElvis years ago, walked through the Ritz Theatre, he stopped to chat with the other tribute artists preparing to take the stage for the Georgia Elvis Festival. After performing in more than 200 similar contests, Britt says he has established deep bonds with some of his competitors.
"It's like a fraternity. We're like brothers," he said.
The bond the artists share is strengthened by their love of the King and paying homage to his music. Like Britt, many of the other tribute artists discovered their ability to imitate Presley's voice and mannerisms years ago.
Britt's journey began when he was a youngster, growing up in Mobile, Ala.
"My mother was a big Elvis fan, and she told me that I should become an Elvis impersonator. But I didn't think that I deserved to represent him," he said.
Fate had other plans, and Britt began portraying the King 13 years ago. He hasn't looked back since, performing concerts everywhere from Las Vegas to Hawaii. Now, he's in Brunswick, hoping to walk away with the title of champion of the GeorgiaElvis Festival.
Britt, along with the other ETAs (that is, Elvis Tribute Artists), put their best foot forward in the first round of the contest Friday. They will continue throughout the weekend, with the final round of performances to take place Sunday. The performers will also give free shows in the pocket parks around downtown Brunswick, from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday.
While the focus is squarely on celebrating the music of Elvis Presley, local merchants are hoping the event will buoy business as well. To help reel in customers, many have been offering up Elvis-centric items or themed windows.
Peggy Parrish, co-owner of Ned Cash Jewelers, 1418 Newcastle St., has even upped the ante. She and her co-workers donnedElvis costumes for their extended hours Friday.
"It's a lot of fun. We've even got some jewelry, like Elvis Boulevard and teddy bear charms for charm bracelets," Parrish said. "We've just really been trying to welcome them. We hope that it will help to bring people downtown, maybe some new people, so that they can experience the magic of downtown Brunswick."
Parrish wasn't the only business woman who was excited to see the Elvis invasion. Susan Bates, owner of Tipsy McSway's Neighborhood Bar & Grill, 1414 Newcastle St., was also thrilled. The restaurant played host to several of the festival's after-performance parties and many impromptu performances taking place there the past few days.
Bates says she is loving having the additional guests.
"I'm surprised by how many people there are from out of town. Everyone in Glynn County should really be thanking these organizers. There are people here from all over the world - Brazil, Qatar, Canada," she said. "The economic impact is solid."
To cater to the taste buds of the King's fans, Bates and her staff have added some appropriate items to the menu. Among the weekend additions were fried dill pickles (the King was a huge pickle fan, as well as an advocate for anything fried) and Blue Hawaiian cocktails (named after his 1961 movie, "Blue Hawaii").
Like Parrish and Bates, Pamela Taylor, owner of Pam Pam's Cupcakes, 1514 Newcastle St., was also looking to satisfy the Elvisfans.
"I'm a big Elvis fan, and I have Elvis here every day," she said, pointing to a tray of cupcakes. "This is my Elvis cupcake. It is a banana cake with a shot of peanut butter, hot fudge sauce and another shot of peanut butter."
Like the other merchants, Taylor had seen a few costumed Elvises and their guests trickle in to sample some of her wares.
"They are everywhere. And we're really glad to have them," Taylor said.
* Lifestyle Editor Lindsey Adkison writes about lifestyle topics. Contact her at ladkison@thebrunswicknews.com, on Facebook or at 265-8320, ext. 316.
The festival
The Georgia Elvis Festival continues this weekend:
* Saturday - Elvis classic car parade begins at 9 a.m. at the Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St. Round 2 of the contest is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the theater. Tickets are $20 to $30. Free "Elvis in Old Town" performances are from 4 to 7 p.m. in downtown squares. "One Night ... Remembered," a celebration of the of the 45th anniversary of Elvis' 1968 comeback special, is at 8 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre. Tickets are $49 to $89.
* Sunday - A free Elvis gospel contest is from 9 to 11 a.m. at Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay at Gloucester streets, downtown. The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest finals are from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Ritz. Tickets are $25 to $35.
Tickets are available at the Ritz box office or online at georgiaelvisfestival.com.
| |
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