FOREVER FOLK

“Summer Entertainment on a Roll”

by Hank Weisman

The Savannah Folk Music Society kicked of its 15th year of First Friday for Folk Music on Friday, July 2nd with a show that really sizzled. This monthly showcase of local and touring folk music talent draws 200 folk enthusiasts to First Presbyterian Church at 520 Washington Avenue in Savannah every month. It is wholesome, family entertainment starting at 7:30 PM and for the bargain of a $2 per person recommended donation.

July’s First Friday for Folk Music opened with Roll on Rodney, an eclectic quartet in terms of members and music. The group includes veteran Savannah musician John Powers with his son, Zach, Rob Robertson and Mary Joe Adams. John arranges the group’s unique approach to songs old and new, provides most of the humor and plays a myriad of instruments; Zach plays keyboard and saxophone (yes, a sax in a folk show!); Rob lays down some great guitar riffs and vocals; and Mary Joe does many of the lead vocals and gives the group some much-needed good looks! You can always expect the unexpected when Roll on Rodney rolls onto the stage.

Bill and Eli Perras also made their second visit to First Friday. The many inspired lyrics given to and interpreted by Eli Perras, combined with Bill Perras’s bluesy finger-style guitar playing create a uniquely modern take on true Americana music in its purest form. Receiving recognition for their tightly woven musical creativity, they humbly remain true to their personal values. They speak out with strong heartfelt lyrics accompanied by soulful genuine pentatonic rhythms against social injustices, corporate greed, and daily follies in everyday life. They can grip your heart, search your soul, change a mindset, or softly strike a funny bone, all the while leaving the audience with a sentiment for the common good desired in all mankind.  They have opened for Bill Staines, Steve Gillette & Cindy Mangsen, Michael Smith, John Gorka, Jack Williams, Anne Feeney, Scott Ainslie, Small Potatoes, Emma’s Revolution, Paul Geremia, Panama Red and many more nationally recognized entertainers. They are regulars at the many Florida folk music venues and festivals and frequently travel the country sharing their music beyond the Sunshine State.

Besides the 14th anniversary edition of First Friday for Folk Music which occurred before this issue of Tybee Times hit the stands, there were two other June events sponsored by the Society. On June 12th at the Frank Murray Community Center on Whitemarsh Island, the last Old Time Country Dance of the season took place at 8 PM. Dances will resume in September when its not as brutally hot as it is in July and August. Playing the dance was the Glow in the Dark Stringband and the steps were called by Bob Beatiie and Joyce Murlless.

A Pot Luck Pickin’ Jam was held at 2 PM on June 13th at the home of Bill Morris on Wilmington Island. Bill’s waterfront home has plenty roomy for lots of folks to bring instruments, voices, enthusiasm and of course, their favorite dish to share.

Looking ahead, the Fall will bring more great music. Concerts have already been planned featuring Mark Erelli & Meg Hutchinson, David Jacob-Strain and Phil Minissale. First Fridays will include such notable performers as Dana Cooper and Buddy Mondlock. And the Oct. 8-10 Savannah Folk Music Festival includes Karla Bonoff, Otis Taylor, Sam Pacetti and Carl Jones & Beverly Smith. And one more thing….is your teenager working on an original song to submit by September 1st for the Youth Songwriting Competition??? Keep folkin’ !

For information about SFMS, call Hank Weisman at 912-786-6953. Visit: http://www.savannahfolk.org.

“Jeff Mosley”

by Jackie Richardson

Last month, we celebrated Mothers so this month it is only fitting that we celebrate the boys of summer, Fathers. In the surfing community here on Tybee Island, fathers give the rides to the beach, they coach their children, they pay for contests, food, etc.

However some men, before they become fathers, totally dedicate their lives to the surfing community. At Tybee Island, that person is our surfer of the month, Jeff Mosley. In the past eight years that our family has been involved in the GA Eastern Surfing Association, I have seen Jeff mentor young surfers. If there is a need with one of these kids, Jeff makes sure it is taken care of. I have been up and down the east coast at surfing events and when people find out we are from Georgia, they always say to tell Jeff and Tara hello.

For the most part, I write these articles but I think Jeff’s answers to my questions are more fitting in his own words, so here are my questions and Jeff’s answers:

Where were you born? El Paso, Texas

When and where was the first time you surfed? Hurricane David swell. I guess that was 1980 or 1981. Robbie Evans gave me an old single fin Atlantis. A couple of days later I rode one over the falls in front of Robbie and my fin poked a hole in his arm. I bet you he was rethinking that whole free board riding again. No surfing mentors. As a kid I always looked up to my two uncles, Woody Waldhour and Bennie Ward.

Where is your favorite place to surf? I know a lot of you will think I’m crazy for this next answer, but its right here at home. It’s where I feel most comfortable. About every four years, it gets good here and when it does there is nothing better. It’s not all out of control, short paddle out, and you know most everyone in the lineup. Oh and my favorite thing is, you can’t see the sharks swimming under your feet here.

Where have you surfed? Everywhere on the east coast from Delaware to Jupiter Inlet, Hawaii, and Panama City in the Gulf. How long have you and Tara been directors of the GA Eastern Surfing Association and how did you get involved? We have been the directors for fourteen years. Jim Reynolds was the director at that time. He was (and still is) in the Coast Guard and was about to be transferred. He asked me to take over the GA district. I was 30 at the time, and Travis Williams, Montee Coursey, Tara, and I were right in the middle of having “The times of our life.” So I don’t know why Jim was asking us to take on such a serious position as District Director. I mean, I could barely “direct” my check to the bank on Fridays much less be responsible for all of the surfing in Georgia. I told Jim I would think about it. During that six months, (because that is how long it takes me to do anything unfortunately), no one stepped up to become the new District director and Tara kept telling me, “I should do it, that it sounded like it would be fun”, and I was like “Shut up woman and fix me something to eat” (just kidding). I didn’t want to see the contests come to an end because everyone seemed to be having a lot of fun doing them. So I told Jim yes and here we are. The best decision Tara ever made for me up until my little girl was born.

What is special about Tybee Island? The fact it is a small community. Everybody knows everybody. You can rarely ride down the road without waving or honking your horn to a friend or acquaintance.

Who are your favorite surfing buddies? You know, I like surfing with everybody that stays out of my way.

What are the best surfing awards you have received? Tara and I were awarded “The Colin J. Couture” award in 2008. It is the highest award given by the ESA (the largest amateur surfing association in the world) for outstanding volunteerism. It is named after “Doc” Couture the founder of the ESA. You are voted in only by previous “Doc Rock” recipients. We received a nice plaque and our names will forever be on the “Doc Rock” which is located in Buxton, NC at the Natural Art Surf Shop.

What is special about being a father?
To see something that is a part of you start to grow and communicate and have her own personality. It’s truly amazing. In closing, I would like to thank the Mayor of Tybee Island, Jason Buelterman, and The City of Tybee Island for all the support they have shown the ESA over the years, but most of all I would like thank my wife, Tara, for giving me a beautiful little girl and putting up with me for the last fifteen years because without her the Jeff and Tara era of the GA ESA District may not have ever existed. I would also like to thank my boss, Steve Brannen of Brannen Construction for allowing me to take the time off work all these years to go and do the things a district director does. Because without him being supportive of the things I like to do, we would have never made it this far. Last, but not least, I would like to thank my district for having fun and embodying the spirit of competitive surfing the way “Doc” envisioned it forty something years ago.

“Your Monthly Bill”

with Bill Gillespie

by Bill Gillespie

Southeast Coast Oil Exploration and Rigs: Not In My Backyard (NIMBY)

I remember the campaign war cries from 2008, “Drill Here, Drill Now.”

Perhaps we thought the oil drilling technology had become safer and that the emergency procedures had been refined making the probability of an accident minimal to nil. Many people rightly thought, “Why would we have all these oil rigs off our coasts if they hadn’t figured it all out?”

It appears the industry, to include BP, lacks the capability to deal with accidents miles below our ocean surfaces. Perhaps it is time to rethink our strategy, and perform the proper short-term and long-term assessments based on our needs, wants and values; especially as they impact our coastal economy, the environment, and our way of life. We all want cheaper energy that pollutes less, or not at all, as well as, an industry that helps to employ Americans. So why don’t we explore all options, especially if they are safer and more costly.

Research shows us that the southeast coast’s oil sources would be extremely costly to tap and would make no significant impact upon supply and cost in the US market. Releasing arrangements would provide the states leasing fess and access royalties, during budget shortfalls. Our politicians tend to think in the short-term, so supporting oil exploration for short-term gain will probably happen. However too many issue become loosey- goosey after the oil reserves are used-up and during problems.

Issues like: Who removes the equipment, pipes, and fixes the site areas to their natural condition, and who pays? Usually the tax payer gets stuck with the bills. And what of the “what if” accident! Will the states cap the liability and clean-up damages to entice a big bidder; could on it. Our coast could be forever damaged, and we — at the mercy of the Federal Government for help.

According to a Wall Street Journal online survey taken the week of April 26, more than 65% of the public now oppose offshore drilling. We really need to think about the local and regional impacts. What if South Carolina succeeded in getting and implementing the first oil exploration contract, then while setting up initial wells, they leaked oil down our coastal isles and all over Gray’s Reef. It’s not just a matter of protecting our coastal wetlands and reef; it’s also about preserving the coast’s economy. Georgia’s coast provides billions of dollars in revenue each year from tourism, as well as the region’s thriving shipping, fishing and other related industries. A disaster off our coast like the one unfolding in the Gulf would be crippling for decades.

Why not invest our tax dollars in alternative energy technology that promotes innovative, sustainable ways to use our coastal resources for our communities and future generations, for example. wind, solar, geo-thermal and wave action. There are just as many US and global corporation, as well as small businesses ready to invest in these energy fields. The initial start-up capital is no more than the oil fees; however, the medium (10-15 years) and long range (25-30 year) costs would be significantly cheaper, and with no potential for environmental collapse.

Whatever energy options we choose, we need to avoid significant risks to our treasured resources and future generations. We must insist on thorough and accurate assessments of current conditions and trends, as these reflect the public interest and the region’s future. When information is inadequate to make reliable decisions, we, the public, need to know. We will need consistent, accountable, and fair enforcement of all environmental regulations.

May we choose well, and may BP find a way to stop the leak soon!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

“Out of the Box”

with Mary Anne Street

Mary Anne Street

Think Before You Toss

Recently I visited the UGA Marine Science Center on Skidaway Island. It’s a great little gem, worth a visit especially if children are with you. They have a wonderful set of aquariums, featuring over 200 animals that represent 50 species native to Georgia’s coastal waters, where you can see and study marine life up close and personal, and they have a touch tank where guests can pick up and touch marine animals.

Their displays include a nurse shark, a loggerhead sea turtle and seahorses. They are located on the Intercoastal Waterway, and you can bring a picnic lunch and sit at the picnic tables and lull away an afternoon watching the water. Birds land a take off there, so if you are a bird watcher, it’s great, for that as well. I sat under a pear tree, enjoying the breeze and reading a book while I waited for my group. They do special programs for groups using microscopes, marsh walks and films to illustrate marine life and to teach guests about environmental issues; I was the tour leader for one of those groups.

They have a myriad of posters that are FREE, some of which make wonderful works of art, if framed (Georgia’s Salt Marsh Official Habitat). Some are great for kids rooms (Marine Fishes of Georgia), and they have a great map of the Coast of Georgia. We framed the latter and have it hanging in our rental unit—it always gets interesting comments. We also have a framed copy hanging in the Concierge’s office at Tybee Vacation Rentals.

One particular poster caught my eye.  It was titled “Marine Debris from Land and Sea—In the Environment a Long, Long Time.” I was appalled at the information it provided. It featured a beach and shore, and the shore water had items one might commonly find in the ocean—that is, those things that people toss away–and how long it took for those things to break down.
Did you know that those plastic beverage holders take 400 years to “breakdown” to nothing? Four hundred years!!!!! And people toss these out all of the time. Disposable diapers? 450 years! Glass bottles and jars “undetermined!” That’s incredible.

We need to stop and think about what we are doing to our environment when we just toss something or let it blow around. Even a paper towel takes 2-4 weeks to decompose.

Here’s a list:

Foamed plastic cup – 50 years
Wool socks – 1-5 years
Photo-degradable beverage holder – 6 months
Plastic bottle – 450 years
Plastic beverage holder – 400 years
Foamed buoy – 50 years
Plastic grocery bag – 1-20 years
Plywood – 1-3 years
Monofilament fishing line – 600 years
Glass bottles and jars – undetermined
Paper Towel – 2-4 weeks
Newspaper – 6 weeks
Cotton rope – 1-5 months
Apple core – 2 months
Cardboard box – 2 months
Cotton gloves – 1-5 months
Waxed milk carton – 3 months
Disposable diaper – 450 years
Aluminum can – 200 years
Tin can – 50 years

SO THINK before you toss away!
Until next month,
Mary Anne

UGA Marine Education Center & Aquarium 9:00 am – 4:00 pm weekdays;
10:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturdays
Closed Sundays & holidays;
Adults & children 13 & up – $4
Children 3 – 12 $2; under 3 – Free; 912.598.2496

Poster info: scdhec.gov/environment/ocrm/outreach/marine_debris.htm

Mary Anne lives on Tybee with husband The Tybee Handyman. Contact her at: MaryAnne@tybeevacationremtals.com

“Light on the Past” with Sarah Jones

Sarah Jones

FORT SCREVEN – Tybee Island, GA

Few visitors to Tybee Island ever realize that there was once a military base on our small island.

The history of Fort Screven, Georgia is a short one; but one that has left its mark on Tybee with the concrete batteries that remain a permanent fixture on the north end of the island.

Here’s the scoop:

1872 It was announced by the United States government that a new fortification would be built on Tybee Island.

1875 The United States government acquired 205 acres on the north end of Tybee Island for the purpose of protecting Tybee Roads, Calibogue Sound, and the city of Savannah.

1897 The first phase of Fort Screven was begun. Originally called Fort Tybee, the name was changed to Fort Graham in honor of Brigadier General Montrose Graham, Commander of the Atlantic coast defenses. Thomas Lynch was transferred from New Jersey to oversee the repair of Fort Pulaski. Before the job was completed he was transferred to Fort Screven to supervise the building of the new fort.

1898 Six weeks before the United States declared war on Spain Fort Graham was officially named for Brigadier General James Screven, a Revolutionary War hero.

1904 By the early 20th century Fort Screven was in full operation and included six Endicott Period Fourth System batteries, an officers row of housing, headquarters buildings, a fort village which included additional housing and post service buildings, quartermasters area, post hospital, and a regimental parade ground.

1921 It was decided that many of the United States military bases should be closed in an attempt to downsize.  Fort Screven was one of many that was chosen to be deactivated. Shortly after the decision was made all but two officers and thirty men were transferred from Fort Screven and all but three of the big guns were dismantled and sent to other fortifications.

1923 With much fanfare, the 8th Infantry arrived in Savannah. They were the last troops to arrive home from Germany. The Washington Guns were fired; the city’s bells rang; and receptions, parades, and speeches were held all over the city to welcome them home. William Randolph Hearst provided his own private train to transport the men to Fort Screven. The 8th Infantry would stay at Fort Screven until the outbreak of World War II.

1932 Lieutenant George C. Marshall became the commanding officer of Fort Screven. Marshall’s first step as commander of Fort Screven was to build up a relationship between Fort Screven’s soldiers and the citizens of Savannah.  The Mayor of Savannah during this time sent Marshall some crepe myrtles to be planted around the fort.  Some of these can still be seen today around Jaycee Park

1933 The Civilian Conservation Corps  (CCC) came to Fort Screven. Fort Screven was chosen by the government to be the primary location for the CCCs’ training, and used as an administration center for a diving and salvage school. The purpose of the diving and salvage school was to train the Port Repair soldiers on how to make repairs to bridges and structures, and clear sunken ships and ordinances from under the water. Most times this was a very dangerous job with little to no visibility.

1944 In August the United States War Department announced that Fort Screven would be closing. On October 21, 1944, Fort Screven’s deactivation took place. The state of Georgia declined purchasing the fort’s property and on November 27, 1945, the federal government sold Fort Screven to the town of Savannah Beach (now named Tybee Island) for $200,000.

Until next month,

Sarah

If you have a subject you’d like for me to write about email me at:

tybeelighthouse@yahoo.com

by Vicki Lynn Butrym

Vicki Lyn Butrym

Well, summer is officially here.  The island is filled with tourists and lots of traffic. Oh, I hate the traffic.  I can’t believe I used to drive in Boston and now when I drive downtown or when I leave the island I get anxiety.
I love that summer is here, business is good and there are lots of new people to meet.   I am having a good time working with all the women that are working at Waves.  It’s very interesting to meet people from other countries.  We have Victoria from Spain, Ira and Kate from the Ukraine, oh, and of course “V,”a funny man who I love working with.

Also, we have Cansu from Turkey. and lot’s more.  I can’t wait to back pack across Europe and go from couch to couch. In a few years it’s my plan to go and visit all my new friends.  Come to Waves and meet them or the Rock house on 16th Street.  By the way, the Rock House once again has the best Burgers in town.. Yummy….

In case you don’t know, Tybee now has a “belly-dance” instructor.  “Cybelle” has started teaching lessons here on Tybee on Monday nights at the Tybee Arts Association.  Lately her students are having a good time learning to “shimmy.”  Sherri Simmons, Jennifer Palmer, Annette and Amanda Jandura, Cansu and Victoria are paricipating. It is a real good core exercise and very elegant… Come out and join us one night.  I’ve asked Cybell to take over my column this month to introduce herself…

MESSAGE FROM CYBELL… “Belly Dancing!”

My name is Cybelle.  I am a Belly Dancer and a Belly Dance teacher. I’ve danced for over a decade, and have taught many others my art throughout the years.  Why would I choose Belly dancing, you ask? It is simple, empowerment.

Yes, I have tried physical activities that would help me achieve my goals, such as weight loss, body toning, attaining proper core strength, and health maintenance, but I realized that Delly Dance gave me these things and so much more.  Not only did I achieve all of the above, I also found a renewed sense of self.  This was only the beginning.

I shall never forget the experience of entering my first class; the intoxicating smell of incense, the beautiful tapestries covering the ceilings and walls and other items from foreign lands, carrying me off to another place in time.  As I looked around, I saw women of all shapes and sizes and wondered why they were here. Then the music came on and I knew why…it filled my spirit.

These students were not worried about how they looked or whether they had felt self-conscious coming in; they were enjoying what was given to them at that moment – a safe space in which to turn, move, feel and express themselves.  They were given an hour of peace, shutting out day to day worries to give something back to themselves. Many had come carrying different “baggage”, and were able to leave it at the door, and let go…. and dance.

Much healing goes on in my class now.  Belly Dance is such an ancient dance; it cannot be accurately traced back to its beginnings.  All there is to understand is that the dance itself was originally women dancing for women, for joy, to practice for childbirth, to release anguish and pain, which they could not discuss with anyone.When dancers begin to learn a move, they discover their bodies, the beauty if their stride, angles, and curves.  The muscles being trained are not used in most other forms of exercise, so it is exciting to feel a region of your body you never knew you had.

One learns how beneficial it is, not only for one’s body, but for one’s mind and spirit, as well.  It enables a dancer to enjoy the journey that will ultimately bring them to their end goal.

The physical benefits are so many; it makes it easier to open the hips for childbirth; it aids with weight loss, digestion, aches and pains, and also helps to increase flexibility and bone density.  Belly Dance infuses the student with good feelings, happy thoughts, serenity, and most of all, a greater sense of self.  Our bodies can serve us as no gym can, we use our own body weight and gravity to gently find our place within a position, and that power is undeniable.

I open my class with gentle warm up, breathing exercises and talk of the tradition, history, and reason behind the dance moves I am about to teach. Regardless of any physical issue or ailment one may have, the student and I find ways to overcome it, so they may participate at their own capacity.  My strong knowledge of anatomy and exercise Kinesiology enables the dancer to trust my guidance, and feel physically safe.  We laugh and smile, heads held high, we dance… just to dance.  I end my class with cool down, stretching, and breathing deeply, assisting the heart rate to calm and return to normal…then we close with a form of ancient yogic energy sharing…and, finally…Namaste (Hindi for “thank you”)….

You are never too big or small, klutzy or shy, to Belly Dance…. just dance as if no one is watching.

Shimmy! Cybelle

Cybelle can be reached at: cybelle_3@yahoo.com, and her website is  cybelleworldfusionbellydance.wordpress.com.

Please feel free to email any questions you may have.  She’s teaching in mid Savannah as well as The Arts Association on Tybee Island, where all are welcome to stop by any Monday at 6pm!  Check prior to attending any class, as schedules may sometimes change.

If you want more information on the class please contact Vicki Lyn Butrym’s Fitness Boot Camp Class is offered to all on Monday – Friday, “In Loving Memory of Paul W. Butrym.”

Contact Vicki Lyn at 912-598-3009,

by Bill Gillespie

Every spring, I look forward to buying my annual Fort Pulaski National Monument pass for the great locals’ price of $10. What a deal! Ft. Pulaski is open all year-round. I always appreciate my time in the park and I learn something new every time I go. I am writing this article with hope that others can experience the same pleasures of discovering, or rediscovering Fort Pulaski’s great dog friendly trails, bike paths, open spaces, wildlife, birds, kayaking, the Fort and the history. Every time we go, we do something completely different. All these great things to do, and just a 5 minute drive from Tybee.

The history of the Fort is truly amazing. Prior to the Civil War, brick forts were America’s main defense against overseas enemies. This Fort was quickly seized and held by Confederate troops after the secession of the southern states. This fort would play a crucial role in defending the access to the port of Savannah. However, in one two-day battle on April 10-11, 1862, the new weapons technology proved its superiority to brick forts. The Union forces used newly rifled cannons to compel a surrender by Confederates inside Fort Pulaski, for their commander feared the Fort’s power storage room could be hit, explode, and kill everyone defending. No one ever built a brick fort again after the battle. Guided tours are offered daily, and the interpretive program includes musket firings, expanded living history programs, and cannon demonstrations.

The outdoor enthusiast will really enjoy exploring the nature trails throughout the park. Selected trails include: North Pier, Lighthouse Overlook, Historic Dike System, and McQueens Island Rails to Trails. The North Pier Trail takes you through a scenic wood, passes the remnants of early fort buildings, and ends at the shore Battery Hambright and pier. The Lighthouse Overlook Trail guides visitors along open marsh as well as a coastal vegetated environment offering great views of the Savannah River, and Tybee Island. The short trail also offers the island’s best views of the historic 19th century Cockspur Island Lighthouse. You can even walk out to the Lighthouse at low tide. The Dike System Trail shows the handy work of Lt. Robert E. Lee, who designed the dike system, which allowed for tide control and drainage, and aided the construction of Fort Pulaski. This longer trail circles the Fort, and offers visitors unparalleled views of Cockspur Island and the Savannah River. Lastly, the McQueens Island Rails to Trails located on McQueens Island at the entrance to the park is my favorite. This six-mile trail follows the path of the old Tybee rail line that once connected Savannah to the beaches of Tybee Island. The packed-gravel trail is open to bikers, runners, walkers, and is the only trail where leashed dogs are not allowed.

For nature lovers, the park supports many species of birds and wildlife. While visiting, you may catch a glimpse of one of the many protected species that have been identified at the park. Large populations of both resident and migratory birds are present. The salt marshes and upland areas of Fort Pulaski National Monument support many species of wildlife, including an abundance of White Tail Deer and Raccoons. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one of the 11 protected species that have been identified at the park. These are: American oystercatcher, bald eagle, gull-billed tern, least tern, loggerhead sea turtle, manatee, peregrine falcon, piping plover, swallow-tailed kite, Wilson’s plover and woodstork.

Don’t forget to plan your trip wisely, and wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks or lunch, plenty of insect repellent and plenty of water, especially in the summer months. Last visit my dog loved the trails and playing on the river’s edge. And what I learned on this visit of a historical nature, I hope never repeats itself – and that was that the spring 1881 storm was 23 feet above sea level totally flooded the Lighthouse!

For Tybee residents, I think the annual pass is a great deal and must have.

Again, I wish you great discoveries and rediscoveries at the Fort!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

For more information, please check-out the Park Service site: http://www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm.
(3 Photos compliments of Fort Pulaski National Park)

(Photo close-up of Cockspur Lighthouse by Cynthia Kinkel, copyright 2010, The Tybee Times)

“Light on the Past”

with Sarah Jones

Sarah Jones

Today’s Tybrisa Street (known by the locals as 16th Street) was named after the old pier and pavilion that was built on Tybee following the hurricanes of 1881, 1883, 1886, and 1889. After these hurricanes the majority of businesses moved to the south end of the island due to the damages that occurred on the north end.

In 1900, to encourage people to come to the island, The Central of Georgia Railroad built a large pavilion called Tybrisa. The pavilion was the largest on Tybee and featured verandas with rocking chairs, a bandstand, men’s and women’s bathhouses, a dining room, a café, and a bar.  All of this was located directly behind the pavilion on 16th Street making Tybrisa the center of Tybee for the next 60 years.

Because Tybrisa was less expensive than some other locations on Tybee it became the most popular with the day trippers who had to watch the money they spent. Up until the 1920s the young people visiting Tybee Island were very proper. However, during the Roaring 20s this all changed and evenings out became more carefree. Every night there were dances held at the pavilions. The most popular way to travel was still the train even though there were groups that would pool their money for gas so that they didn’t have to rush to catch the last train. The most popular spot to go dancing on Tybee was the Tybrisa Pier. Tybrisa had a crystal ball that would reflect light off of glass panels.

Of course with a popular place like Tybrisa people had to get to the pier so the walkway that led from the train to the strand was traveled by most people coming to the island.  island.  So many people chose this way to get to the beach that it became known as “the entrance to the ocean.”  Eventually the walkway became 16th Street.

16th Street developed quickly due to the high volume of people moving through the area.  All kinds of eateries, hotels and boardinghouses popped up in the area to serve the people moving through. Tybee was trying to accommodate as many travelers to the island as possible by hard surfacing Tybee Road from 14th through 18th streets, from the railroad to the Strand and this included parking for 3,000 automobiles, 1,000 of which would have an ocean view parking space.  At the opening of the 1932 season Tybee was the only resort north of Florida that offered ocean-front parking.

Despite the two devastating fires of 1931 Tybee had very high hopes for the 1932 season. Two of the major hotels that had been lost were planning to rebuild even bigger and better than before.

By 1937 many of the lots that had previously been destroyed had been built on again, creating a new commercial center for Tybee. This one had strict fire codes and many of the buildings were built out of concrete block.

Between the years of 1932 and 1937 many new businesses opened on Tybee. A bus station and new post office were added and Chu’s Department Store was built. This rebuilding helped Savannah Beach’s year-round community develop a stronger population.

In 1967 one of the defining features of Tybee Island, the Tybrisa Pier, was burned down under suspicious circumstances and due to the unchecked growth during the following decades and lack of planning or control of the growth, The Strand and the South End district of Tybee Island became a shadow of its former glory.

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Recently the City and Citizens of Tybee Island have worked hard to make 16th Street, or Tybrisa Street as it is known today, a wonderful example of how a community can reclaim is heritage and re-energize its citizens and economy.

Until next month,
Sarah

by Vicki Lyn Butrym

I’d like to dedicate this month’s article to my late husband Paul William Butrym (June 7, 1958 – May 14, 2008).

Back in March of 2006 thanks to Tiffany Dennis, Paul’s Boot Camp became a new adventure on this little island.  I remember the very first morning of class I was 70 lbs heavier than I am today.   We had a very good turn out and the group became a team after just a few weeks.  We worked out every morning and each class started with a morning prayer.  We met every morning as we do now from 6am to 7am and for 3 years I had Paul yelling “kick it in, Vicki Lyn”.  I am so thankful that his group got started and changed my life.  I remember laying down the minute I got there and just thought about how I wanted to go back to bed.  It was hard, I will admit that.  I hated every minute of it. I could not run, I could not do a sit up, a push up… nothing and man did I cry at times.

It took time and a lot of dedication to get me where I am today and that is because Paul had a way with him when it came to motivating people.  He would make you feel good about yourself and always encourage you to do just a little more.  Paul had a lot of people he trained and they all loved him.  Paul is dearly missed on this island and he touched a lot of lives.  Paul was all about fitness from the time he got up in the morning, till the time he went to bed at night.  He was always doing something to keep him healthy and fit. And as most of you know this is the reason I keep this class going in his memory and collect donations only.  I am trying to give that motivation and inspiration to someone else and see how a little exercise can change your life as it did mine.

I lost Paul two years ago to a bad disease called alcoholism.  No matter how healthy he was this disease still took him at a young age.  No matter how strong and fit you are the bottle will win if you have that alcoholism gene.  My father died the say way Paul did also at a young age and it is a horrible death.  In the past few years people here on Tybee others have also died from drugs or alcohol and it is sad to see it happen.  For me drinking is not an option in my life anymore.  I have had my days of drinking and a lot of good ones.   But I also have to know my limits and my limit is none today.   Unfortunately Paul could not stay sober for long periods of time and one day it killed him on a very short bender.    God rest his soul and may peace be with him in a happier place.

Life was very hard in the beginning after his death and it took almost a year before I felt normal again.  As time has gone on you realize that you will be fine.  I know in my heart that keeping his morning class going and helping other people has made me a stronger person today.  I was able to continue his legacy and 2 years later I am still continuing this adventure.  I ask for donations only and these donations now go toward volunteer vacations with the National Hiking Society.  It really gives me something to look forward to and gives me a goal.  I am nowhere at the level Paul was in fitness but from the little bit I know from his teachings I have been able to pass on to a few more lives.  Everything happens for a reason they say and I honestly believe our paths crossed for a reason and I will continue on life’s journey.

It has been a long cold winter and it just is not the same without the warmth of the morning sun and the dolphins, but a few of us have continued on through the winter.  It seems to be easier to get out of bed now that it is not so cold, but summer warmth has not touched us in the mornings as I would like.  I crawl into my Jeep every morning and manage to keep going.  We managed to skip a few weeks this past month and felt so sluggish and tired all the time, but once we started back up again it was like a re-charge on my old battery.  I feel so much better now that we are back in the routine.  Believe me you, I try to think of an excuse every morning but when people are counting on you it makes you a little more responsible.  I still have a long way to go in the fitness career, but the little bit I do and the people that I meet makes me want to continue on this fitness journey.  Please call me or email me for more information and everyone is welcome to this class.  I am looking forward to meeting new people that are here on vacation that join us during these summer months.

We have also started a Belly Dancing class on Monday nights at the Tybee Arts Association from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  It is really fun, and it’s a great core work out.  I am enjoying the benefits of posture and hip motions.  I still don’t get how someone can move ½ their body one way, and the other ½ another, but that is why I am there so I can learn this.

If you want more information on the class please contact ddraqs@yahoo.com.

“Out of the Box”

with Mary Anne Street

Now that Miley has brought Tybee to the movie scene people are abuzz with ideas. John Potter and Eric Thomas were sitting around Huc-a-poos, throwing out ideas about movies they could make, and finally they decided to take action rather than just talk about it. They officially set up the 1st Annual Savannah Beach Film Festival and Awards Show taking place on Saturday, October 2, 2010. They also decided that they wanted the money to go to a good cause, and they chose the Savannah Beach/Oceanside Nursing Home. The proceeds will go toward getting a gazebo built on the Home grounds.

John Potter used to work on movies in California, mostly for Universal Studios, and has some experience about their production and promotion.

“Now that film making is relatively easy with computers and such, I thought it might be feasible for locals to just do their own movies,” Potter said. “In fact, I have a couple of scripts ready and will do two films myself; one an animated cartoon and one a foreign ‘artsy’ film.” Potter said that one person is doing a surfing movie about surfers on Tybee, another is doing one about a bank heist, and yet another is doing one about a lighthouse.

Award-winning actress Kathy Bates is scheduled to come, and Potter is contacting several other stars and TV personalities to see if they will appear. Potter said that many famous people like to see independent films and are interested in attending small film festivals, so he thinks we’ll get some response. So far he’s sent an invitation to David Letterman, among others, and believes it’s just interesting enough to get Letterman to appear or send his sidekick. “Letterman likes these kinds of things, so we’re hopeful,” he said.

Huc-a-poos is the central location for information, tickets and questions about the films.

If you think that you are the next Spielberg, you can prove it by making a short film and entering it. Proceeds will go to the Oceanside/Savannah Beach Nursing Homes, and who knows, a Hollywood producer may see your work and whisk you away to Tinsel Town.

The rules are easy.

• No Porn! Keep it PG-13.
• Start Date is April 1st and all films must be in by September 1st. The awards show is Saturday, October 2nd at 8:00 at Huc-A-Poos. (The Tybee Times will soon have more on this.)
• Film length is not to exceed 20 min.
• Fill out the application form. There is a $20.00 entry fee for each production (includes 2 free seats).
• Festival tickets are $5.00. Reserve your seats now!
• The judges have the right to limit the number of films entered and it’s first come, first served. In the event your film won’t or can’t be screened, a refund will be issued.
• There will be movie stars and production people attending.
• Audience members will vote for the best films and who knows, you may win a “Pabstie” award.
• There will be Pabst Blue Ribbon blue carpet interviews.
• We are here to make movies, help out some of our neighbors and have a fun time.
• Application forms, tickets and information available at Huc-A-Poos, 912.786.5900.
• Festival Seat Tickets can be purchased anytime at the Ticket-Tron Vending Machine in Huc-A-Poos.

Until next month,
Mary Anne

Mary Anne lives on Tybee with husband The Tybee Handyman. Contact her at: MaryAnne@tybeevacationremtals.com