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Hurricane Irma Updates

Latest Hurricane Irma Update

9.14.2017 5:30 pm

Dear Guest,

Thank you for your patience as we continue to work through the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. We are happy to report our office has begun the process of reopening with a handful of staff able to return today and even more returning tomorrow. While our office is still without power, our generators are running and phone and data communications are working.  This morning Glynn county has opened access for residents to return to their homes and businesses. We are continuing to assess the sitatuon in our vacation rental properties and hope to resume normal operations soon.

The island is still experienceing significant power outages and our water and sewer system is under significant strain and have implemented a strict water conservation plan. The full report from our joint water and sewer commission can be found here.

Due to the utility situation we will not be accepting any incoming reservations or check in’s until at least Sunday, September 17th, 2017.

Please note that this information could change based on updates from our utility providers. We will send updates accordingly.

Thanks so much for your patience during this difficult time.  From all of us at Hodnett Cooper we very much appreciate the calls and emails of concern. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Thank you

9.14.2017 11:00 am

To Our Guests,

Thank you for your patience as we work through the aftermath from Hurricane Irma.  As I am sure you have seen and heard, St Simons had significant impacts. The majority of the island, to include the Hodnett Cooper offices are without power and have limited phone service. Today, staff have been able to return to their homes and some to work, we hope to quickly resume normal operations in the coming days.

As our staff is able to return to work, power and water service restored and property inspections are completed we will begin to resume normal operations. Today we will begin reaching out to impacted guests.

Thanks so much for your patience during this difficult time. From all of us at Hodnett Cooper we very much appreciate the calls and emails of concern. We look forward to seeing you soon.

9.13.2017 6:00 pm

Thursday, 9/14/17 Residents of St. Simons Island will be permitted back on the island starting at 8 am.

9.13.2017 2:25 pm

We are back on the island with a limited staff.  At the present time our office is still closed and without power, we are operating on a generator, but our phones are down . We are working diligently to get our operation up and running.

Once power is restored we will be in touch with each guest individually that is in house or has a reservation this weekend.

9.11.2017 2:00 pm

As of 10:00 am this morning bridges and many roads are still closed. The mandatory evacuation is still in place. As winds begin to deteriorate and water recedes, Glynn County officials will asses the situation and info when it is safe to return to the island. Please see full briefing from Glynn County by following the link below.

https://glynncounty.org/773/Severe-Weather-TS-Hurricane-Updates

9.9.2017 6:00pm

Glynn County is under storm surge watch, flash flood watch, and tropical storm warning. 55-65 mph winds are expected to be felt as soon as tomorrow night. The Sidney Lanier Bridge will be closing tomorrow, Sunday September 10th at 12:00 pm due to weather conditions. We can except to see 8 to 15 inches off rain and up to 4 feet of storm surge.

See latest PSA from Glynn County here.

9.8.2017 3:45pm

As of this afternoon our area continues to be in the three day cone of uncertainty and we would anticipate that tropical storm and/or Hurricane watches and warnings will begin in the next day or so. The current forecast track has shifted the storm to the west and appears that it will be a weakening hurricane or possibly a tropical storm as it moves up through Florida into Georgia.  The latest report from the National Weather Service has a concern about the potential for storm surge, especially if Irma comes through at high tide.

Governor Deal moved up the mandatory evacuation and our county emergency officials began the mandatory evacuation for all of Glynn county beginning at 8am this morning.

9/8/17 Hurricane Irma Briefing from NWS
http://www.weather.gov/media/jax/briefings/nws-jax-briefing.pdf

9.7.2017 6:00 pm

We continue to monitor Hurricane Irma and its potential impact on St Simons Island.  As of this afternoon Governor Deal has placed a mandatory evacuation for our area beginning Saturday.  Our staff is continuing to secure loose furniture on properties and have notified all in house guests of the evacuation order.  All guests are being instructed to depart no later than noon on Saturday.  Reservations scheduled to arrive between today and Wednesday 9/13/17 have been cancelled or moved to a later date.

Based on reports from the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials, Hurricane Irma will be dangerously close to St Simons as a major hurricane beginning late Sunday -Monday. Obviously, any variation in the forecasted track could significantly change the impact on our area.

With the evacuation order, our plan is to close our offices tomorrow afternoon with a limited staff here on Saturday morning to shut down our systems and offices.  **Please note that in all of our managed associations to minimize potential damage all elevators will be sent to the top floor and shut off until power is restored and re-entry to the island is permitted. **

We are expecting widespread power outages, but will be doing the best we can to send daily updates through email as well as posted on our website.

Also, in the event our phones go down we have activated our toll free hurricane line and will post updates as we are able.  The toll free # is 844-383-4758.

We will continue to monitor the updates this evening and tomorrow morning and will have another update for everyone tomorrow.

9.6.2017 4:00 pm

A State of Emergency has been issued by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal in six coastal counties: Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Glynn, Liberty, and McIntosh counties. There have been no warnings, watches, or evacuations in Georgia at this time but the Governor is encouraging residents to remain “vigilant and prepared”.

9.5.2017 1:30pm

We are continuing to monitor Hurricane Irma and the potential impacts on St. Simons Island. At this time, our area is not under any watches or warnings and the impact to St Simons late this weekend or early next week is unknown. We will update this page as new information becomes available from the National Hurricane Center as well as local authorities.

Irma

 

 

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Hodnett Cooper Joins Berkshire Hathaway

As the GoldenIsles News reports,

The name Hodnett Cooper Real Estate has long been a mainstay in the Golden Isles real estate market. But in the spring that will change.

The company will join Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, part of the HSF Affiliates LLC family of real estate brokerage franchise networks. In the spring, the company will officially begin operating as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett Cooper Real Estate.

The family-owned brokerage, led by broker/owner Pat Hodnett Cooper, the daughter of its founder, operates three offices with more than 50 agents. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is America’s fastest-growing real estate brokerage network with more than 42,350 agents and 1,270 offices admitted to the brand since its founding in September 2013.

When presented with the opportunity to join the firm, Hodnett Cooper said she jumped at the chance.

“Very few times in your life do opportunities present themselves that are life changing; this is certainly one of those times,” she said.

“I am so excited for the future of our real estate company and for what our franchise affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices will mean for our business.”

She feels that aligning the real estate brokerage with a large and recognizable firm like Berkshire Hathaway Inc. will bring good things in the years ahead.

“The name will resonate well with clients in all market segments and with real estate professionals in our area; we’re proud to represent this terrific brand and look forward to growing with the very best,” she said.

With their transition, Hodnett Cooper Real Estate agents will gain access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ Global Network Platform, a powerful tool suite focusing on lead generation, marketing support, social media, video production/distribution and more. The brand also provides national and international marketing support, listing syndication to consumer search sites in 35 countries, professional education and the exclusive Luxury Collection for high-end and resort listings.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CEO Gino Blefari is also optimistic about the move.

“Pat is a well-respected leader throughout the St. Simons Island and Golden Isles marketplace,” he said. “We are thrilled to welcome them to the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices family.”

The company’s new Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices yard signs are expected to populate the Golden Isles this spring. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, Inc., however, will continue operations as the largest vacation rental company on St. Simons Island and will not be part of the franchise affiliation.

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Timeline to Donald Trump’s Presidential Inauguration

Inauguration

Today, Donald Trump will be sworn in at his inauguration, becoming the 45th President of The United States. This is a day full of exciting events for all Americans as they turn their eyes to the US Capitol to watch Donald Trump formally replace President Barack Obama in the White House. Although this is a monumental and historic day for the American People, some of us still have to work… so if you can’t tune in for the duration of the inauguration, we’ve laid out a time line so you can catch the events you don’t want to miss!

FRIDAY 20 JANUARY

  • 9:30am (14:30 GMT)Inauguration ceremony begins with musical performances
  • 11:30am (16:30 GMT) Opening remarks followed by Supreme Court Justice swearing in Mr. Pence
  • 11:45am -Noon (16:45 – 17:00 GMT)President Obama’s term of office ends at precisely noon. Before then, Mr. Trump must recite the oath of office, administered by Chief Justice Roberts. He will then deliver his inaugural address
  • 3pm-5pm (20:00 – 22:00 GMT) Trump and Mr. Pence will embark on a 1.5 mile (2.4km) parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, which will probably be lined with both supporters and protesters
  • 7pm-11pm (00:00-04:00 GMT)  Trump, Mr. Pence and their wives will attend three official inaugural balls

 

It’s safe to say after this long election season many of us would definitely enjoy some down time. Add to the inauguration timeline above and pencil yourself in to book some vacation time!  Why not come to St. Simons Island and enjoy the warmer weather and the salty air?  You can relax, unwind and enjoy some time to yourself after this weekend’s inauguration events!

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HGTV Dream Home 2017 on St. Simons Island

Have you heard? HGTV 2017 Dream Home is on St. Simons Island! HGTV is no stranger to St. Simons featuring our small but beautiful island on many of their shows throughout the years. St Simons was featured on Island Life, where a couple and their children from California move across country for a slow paced, more relaxed coastal lifestyle. One of Hodnett Cooper’s very own, Lisa Wilson was the Real Estate agent featured on the show to help the lovely couple find their perfect island home. In addition, St. Marys, just a few miles away was also the 2004 HGTV Dream Home. This year, in the heart of the island at Sea Palms subdivision sits the 3,600 square foot Dream Home. The home was originally built in the 1980’s but was completely remolded and turned into a modern day fairy tale. In addition to the lucky winner receiving the beautiful home they also win a Honda Pilot and $250,000 in cash, not bad right?! In previous years they have opened the Dream Homes for public tours and we are keeping our fingers crossed they will do the same this year! The contest starts December 28th and ends February 17th. You can vote twice a day every day, in years past there has never been a winner who did not vote twice a day every day… so make sure you enter daily!!! The winner of the contest will be announced in late February or early March.

HGTV 2017 Dream Home

HGTV 2017 Dream Home

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Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival

The 11th annual Shrimp & Grits Festival, hosted by Southern Living is taking place this weekend on Jekyll Island.

This festival has gained quite the audience over the years attracting visitors from near and far. The Shrimp & Grits festival holds contests for both professional and individual cooks of the dish each year to decide who is the best in the state. Chefs were chosen to participate in the contest by an online voting system among each region. The defending champion, Blackwater Grill of St. Simons Island, will compete this year against some new challengers including American Catch Seafood Exchange, Deano’s Italian, Goin’ Coastal, The National and West Egg Café among others. This year’s competition is at 11 a.m. Sunday, the final day of the festival that starts Friday afternoon.

One new feature this year is the Jekyll Island Experience Pavilion which features education displays and interaction with wildlife from the Georgia Sea Turtle center as well as some of centers in Georgia. There will also be a Craft Brew Fest for all of the beer fanatics which will feature over 50 beverages to sample. Regional musicians will perform live on three stages, and there will be more than 100 art and craft vendors along the walking paths of the historic district where the festival is held.

All events will be held in the island’s National Landmark Historic District on the western side of the state-owned island.

The festival hours are:

Friday September 16th, 4-9 p.m.

Saturday September 17th, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday September 18th, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

General admission to the festival is free, but tickets for admission to the VIP Lounge, DuBignon and Riverfront Lawn lounge options and Craft Brew Fest are available at

 

 

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Best Coastal Small Town

St. Simons Island - Best Coastal Small Town

St. Simons Island – Best Coastal Small Town

The beautiful coastal town of St. Simons has been nominated by USA Today for Best Coastal Small Town 2016. With many local competitors like Fernandina Beach, FL, Beaufort, SC, Tybee Island, GA, competition is stiff. However anyone who has been to St. Simons knows its immaculate beauty that compares to no other place on this earth!

There are 20 nominees from the west coast to the east coast, all with less than 25,000 people. According to USA Today these locations offer uncrowded, unpretentious, and affordable fun for all.

Currently we are in 2nd place, however with our southern hospitality, great food, and beautiful beaches we have nothing to fear. Aside from the beach St. Simons offers so many things that the competition does not, like our oak tree lined roads that are perfect for biking, great local shopping destinations, and most importantly the people of the island that make it so warm and welcoming!

You have until April 25th at noon to vote, votes can be cast every day, one time per day until the poll is closed! Follow the link below to vote!

http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-coastal-small-town-2016/st-simons-island-ga/

 

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St. Simons Island Named Among “Most Romantic Beaches” by USA Today

Couple standing on a sand dune with bicycles

Not long ago, St. Simons Island was ranked #1 among “America’s Most Romantic Towns” in a Travel + Leisure Readers’ Poll. St. Simons “was a hit with readers in romance-friendly categories such as picnicking and charming cafés.”

And now, USA Today seconds the motion!

In an article published on July 10, 2014, USA Today names St. Simons Island among the “Most Romantic beaches in Georgia and the Carolinas.” Here’s what they have to say about St. Simons and our never-ending supply of romance:

Step back in time in St. Simons Island, a picturesque town on the Georgia coast. Hop on a bicycle and explore 30 miles of paths shaded by live oaks, stopping to browse for antiques in the bustling town village. Another great way to see the island is by trolley; tours showcase the historic lighthouse (where you can climb 129 steps to the top), 19th-century church and a nearby Southern plantation.


Now, grab your sweetie and head to St. Simons Island for some Romance with a capital R. Be sure to check with Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals for the perfect accommodations for your getaway!

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Coastal Living Magazine Names St. Simons Island Among America’s Happiest Seaside Towns

Photo: Coastal Living Magazine online

Photo: Coastal Living Magazine online

 

Each year, Coastal Living Magazine starts out with a burning question: what are America’s Happiest Seaside Towns? All seaside towns are happy, right? I mean, they’re sitting right there by the sea!

With a scientific approach, Coastal Living begins with empirical evidence including reader nominations and editors’ assessment of each town’s “coastal vibe.” Then they cross reference the data with measurable evidence including Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index categories including percentage of sunny days, healthiness of beaches, commute times, crime ratings, walkability, standard of living and financial well-being of locals. The top 10 contenders were announced in March, 2014, then America voted for the Happiest Seaside Towns.

Of course, it is an honor to be among the Top 10, but even a greater honor to rank #6 on the final list. Here is what Coastal Living Magazine had to say about St. Simons Island, Georgia:

“St. Simons is the largest of Georgia’s resplendent Golden Isles, an idyllic Southern enclave midway between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida. The century-old resort community of 13,381 residents occupies an 18-square-mile island where the winding streets and bike paths are lined with moss-draped oaks, and the two public beaches are among the most unspoiled in the region. Its marshes and woodlands, once the setting of colonial exploration and rice cultivation, now make safe haven for the more than 300 species of birds that pass through.

Fishermen migrate here, too, to drop their lines right at the pier or to fish offshore in the plentiful waters for fresh catch ranging from grouper and snapper to flounder, tarpon, and king mackerel. Golfers pack their clubs for a chance to tee off at any of the island’s 99 holes of superb golf. And walkers love the John Gilbert Nature Trail in Frederica Marsh, which features a breathtakingly huge live oak in the heart of this lovely island.”

We are honored (and happy!) to be among this year’s Happiest Seaside Towns.

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St. Simons Island Ranks #1 in “America’s Most Romantic Towns” by Travel + Leisure Readers

Photo: James Schwabel / Alamy

Photo: James Schwabel / Alamy

You may remember the “America’s Favorite Towns” survey where St. Simons Island, Georgia ranked #3 for our beautiful natural setting, miles of sandy beaches, sprawling oaks, golf and historic sites.

As part of the “America’s Favorite Towns” poll, Travel + Leisure readers also scored towns on their romantic appeal for the “America’s Most Romantic Towns” list. To calculate the most romantic towns, Travel + Leisure looked at brunch spots, bakeries, wine scenes, scenic picnic-friendly parks and romantic hotels.

Based on these categories, we are pleased to report that St. Simons Island ranked as the #1 Most Romantic Town! We’ll just quote T+L directly:

“America’s top town for romance strikes the right balance between seclusion and accessibility. Located on one of Georgia’s Golden Isles, this southern-style beach town has both white sands and live oaks, and was a hit with readers in romance-friendly categories such as picnicking and charming cafés. You can rent bicycles, browse antique shops, and check out another undeniable marker of romantic destinations: the local lighthouse.”

As a bonus to those who are considering a romantic getaway, another top romantic town is just across the bridge—a quick 12-minute drive from St. Simons Island. Neighboring Brunswick, Georgia ranked #20 among Travel + Leisure readers:

“Established by the British in 1771, this romantic coastal spot is one of the few American towns that kept its colonial street names—a nod to longevity any couple can appreciate. Aside from quirky appeal to history buffs, Brunswick was ranked highly for its festivals, such as autumn’s Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee, where competitors cook up tomatoey pots of stew. Come December, a plethora of twinkly lights is a seasonal enchantment (even on the water, during the Christmas Boat Parade of Lights).”

Turns out, Coastal Georgia is for lovers! Take a look at the Hodnett Cooper St. Simons Island and Brunswick Area Guide for all sorts of activity ideas. For the romantic, a horseback ride on the beach, picnic at oceanfront Neptune Park, a long walk on the beach or a Tree Spirit treasure hunt.

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St. Simons Island, Georgia featured in USA Today Travel

St Simons Island_USA Today

(Photo: Golden Isles CVB)

Allison Entrekin, an award-winning travel writer and editor living in Atlanta wrote a piece on St. Simons Island for USA Today. The three-part piece features an overview of the island, what to do and where to stay.

Entrekin conveys the natural beauty of St. Simons, the unique shops and restaurants in the village area and the sensible development along the beaches. She also touches on some of the distinctive features of the Island—the roped off areas of the dunes protecting loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season and the abundance of bicycles parked on the paths leading to the beach.

In the “What to do” section, St. Simons Island is deemed a “cyclist’s paradise” because of the miles and miles of picturesque bike paths all over the Island. Biking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and of course, golf, are among the favored activities.

And “Where to stay,” Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals is named best choice for family, budget and luxury travelers.

For the complete articles, click the links below:

USA Today: Experience St. Simons Island, Georgia

USA Today: What do to on St. Simons Island, Georgia

USA Today: Where to stay on St. Simons Island, Georgia

 

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