Thanks for your interest in Jekyll and your very fair piece. Objectivity is a rare commodity in today’s journalism.

A couple of years ago, Governor Perdue asked me to head the Jekyll Authority and get the developed, rundown portion of the island back to a status all Georgians can be proud of. I am enjoying the challenge and we are making great progress in the revitalization of this wonderful state treasure. In a few years, Jekyll will be among the prettiest, most desirable and most environmentally-friendly destinations in the country, and we’ll all be proud of “Georgia’s Jewel.”

We chose as our private partner a great group of Georgians to join with the Jekyll Island Authority in the redevelpment of Jekyll’s rundown retail village and convention center. Linger Longer has received great input from a large number of citizens. The evolving plans are “green” and beautiful, and the result will provide our visitors with a great island vacation and convention experience. As the result of the revitalization initiative, other island facilities are upgrading or rebuilding to modernize their accomodations. A wide variety of facilities will be available, in all price ranges. Jekyll will again become Georgia’s favorite vacation and convention destination.

Most of the opposition to the revitalization plans has come from a relatively small group who, for one reason or another, don’t want Jekyll to change. They tend to forget that this natural wonderland and vacation venue is managed, and protected, for the benefit and enjoyment of nine million Georgians and an abundance of wildlife.

I hope you will visit Jekyll soon. Check the website. I think you’ll like what you see.

Ben Porter