Jess Shaw and Kevin Ryan will guide participants through an evening of trivia and self discovery at Service Brewing. Test your trivia knowledge while also competing in interactive challenge rounds to gain extra points. The first place team receives a $100 cash prize. 6:30 p.m. Service Brewing Co., 574 Indian St.. servicebrewing.com.
Enjoy the Downtown Design District’s Annual Holiday Walk on December 1, 2022 from 5:308:30 pm. There will be food, fun, and of course, great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Who knows may even get to meet the big guy?! Participating merchants include: Arcanum, Asher + Rye, Brick House Living, Circa Lighting, Custard Boutique, Gaston Crue, Hannah E, Madam Chrysanthemum, Mercer House Carriage Shop, One Fish-Two Fish, Peaches, Stone Lords, The Annex, The Printed Peach.
The Historic Savannah Theatre presents its 20th Annual musical production “A Christmas Tradition” which features a live band, singers, and dancers performing holiday favorites with comedy, aerial artistry and appearances by Frosty and Santa with his dancing reindeer! It’s fun for the whole family. Thursday, Dec 1, at 8pm Friday, Dec 2, at 8pm Saturday, Dec 3, at 3pm & 8pm Sunday, Dec 4, 3pm Tues, Dec 6, at 8pm 222 Bull Street, 912 233-7764 savannahtheatre.com
To have your event considered for inclusion, please send an email to happenings@connectsavannah.com. Include the event name, date, time, location with address, cost, website address for additional information, and a contact number. The submission deadline is 5PM each Friday before the following Wednesday’s edition.
Kick off the holiday season with Telfair’s annual tree lighting celebration. A hot cocoa bar, homemade cookies, and children’s art activities will take place in the Jepson Center’s Richard and Judy Eckburg Atrium. And be sure to pick up holiday gifts in the museum shop—our brilliantly colored Delftware ornaments representing Telfair’s three sites are waiting to go to good homes. The holiday tree will be on view until January 9, 2023. Free 5:30-7 p.m.. telfair.org
Join Elks Lodge for Bingo on Thursdays from 7:30-9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 7-9 p.m. Enjoy great family fun, good food at the snack bar and many chances to win cash. Elks Lodge, 183 Wilshire Blvd.
Join Service Brewing for Bluegrass by the Pint every Friday featuring live bluegrass from local favorites, Swamptooth.6 p.m. Service Brewing Co., 574 Indian St. servicebrewing.com
Starland Yard is the official UGA Savannah Alumni Chapter Game Watching location! Put on your spirited red and black and head to the Savannah chapter’s game watching party to watch the Bulldogs play. The event is free, fun and attended by passionate graduates and fans of the University of Georgia. Kick-off is 4PM against LSU, so get there early for swag!. 2411 De Soto Ave.
Enjoy the Downtown Design District’s Annual Holiday Walk on December 1, 2022 from 5:30-8:30 pm. There will be food, fun, and of course, great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Who knows may even get to meet the big guy?! Participating merchants include: Arcanum, Asher + Rye, Brick House Living, Circa Lighting, Custard Boutique, Gaston Crue, Hannah E, Madam Chrysanthemum, Mercer House Carriage Shop, One Fish-Two Fish, Peaches, Stone Lords, The Annex, The Printed Peach.
The $45 photo package includes two 5x7 prints and all digital proofs via email. Proceeds from this event will benefit Renegade Paws Rescue, which will be on hand with pups still in search of their forever homes. In addition, The Hipster Hound will be collecting pet food for Meals on Wheels. $45 10 a.m.-2 p.m.. The Hipster Hound, 1 Diamond Causeway, Suite 13.
Local and regional produce, honey, meat, dairy, pasta, baked goods and other delights. Rain or shine. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Forsyth Park, Drayton St. & East Park Ave. Free to attend. forsythfarmersmarket.com
Enjoy half off bottles of wine and fire pits in the courtyard. Purchase one of our s’mores kits (marshmallows included) for the ultimate fall experience. 6-9 p.m. Foxy Loxy Cafe, Bull St.
SUNDAY
Wrap up the weekend with a Sunday Funday Sunset Party on the roof. Local DJ Doc Ock, an amazing view, Long Drink and Herradura specials, and $3 Rosé all day. 6 - 9 p.m. Top Deck, 125 W. River St
BINGO
8 p.m., Moodright’s, 2424 Abercorn St.
FARMERS MARKET
Weekly market featuring a variety of locally made and grown items. Pet friendly and no-smoking. Artisans are also featured each week. 4 p.m. 30 Meddin Dr., tybeeislandfarmersmarket.com
COMEDY
The ghost of Savannah’s legendary open mic returns. 8:30-11:45 p.m. Stafford’s Public House, 306 W. Upper Factor’s Walk.
ERICA BASKIN PUBLISHER erica@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4378
wendy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4373
Connect Savannah is a weekly arts, entertainment and news magazine, focused on Savannah and the Coastal Empire life and experience.
We strive to feature stories that impact our community and the people who live here— to educate, entertain, inform and foster conversation.
We appreciate and encourage readers to share news and information with us, and to share any criticism and questions. We want to be your comprehensive source for what happens in our community and beyond. We are here to serve you.
Find us on the following social media platforms or reach out to us at news@connectsavannah.com or 912-721-4378.
(912) 238-2041
Barry Lollis
school serving K-12 students in Chatham County. He is a biologist turned educator who has been working in local schools for nearly a decade. Lollis was a science teacher at Savannah Arts Academy in the early 2000s. He also served as principal at Shuman Middle School for a year. He worked at Jenkins High School for a year before being promoted to principal at Windsor Forest High School.
“I worked nine years in Chatham County total across those. At the time I became principal at Windsor, I think I was the youngest principal ever in Chatham Coun ty. I was 33 at the time,” Lollis recalled.
He left Chatham County to work in Mid dle Georgia for a few years before return ing in 2017 to serve as the CEO of Savan nah Classical Academy, which is the only public K-12 school in the county. Some are unclear about the school and what oppor tunities it presents to potential students, and Lollis strives to provide clarity.
“A lot of people are confused when we say charter school. Some people equate us to a private school where you have to pay tuition and some people don’t know. But a charter school is a public school funded like any other public school in state, and it’s at no cost to parents,” he said..
Savannah Classical Academy is free and open to students in Chatham County, but as a charter school, it differs from other local public schools in management and operations.
“At Savannah Classical, we have our own board and our own leadership. So I would be the leadership and then we have a gov erning board that serves the same function as a school board where they oversee
policy, me and the school . . . The charter school is really like a mini school system of one school. You have your own board, your own leader ship, and you make your own rules, policies and so forth. But in order to get that autonomy that comes with your charter contract, you have to meet certain financial and academic performance goals. . . In short it’s a public school available to families who choose to seek enrollment. It just operates differently than a traditional public school,” he explained.
Established in 2013, Savan nah Classical Academy cur rently serves about 430 K-12 students, and it has earned a reputation for academic excellence.
“They look at your operation from your lunches to your breakfast to the cleanli ness of your building, the materials you have in the building. . . They look at every facet of the school and rate you based on what they see . . .They gave us accredi tation with quality, which is the highest rating we could receive,” Lollis stated.
Lollis credits the school’s academic successes in part to the long-standing relationships fostered between students and faculty.
“I’ve worked in a variety of schools in town and outside of the county, and hands down in Savannah Classical, our faculty will get to know that child better than any other school I’ve been in simply because we’re K-12. We’ve seen them at the very beginning and all the way up through high school, so that’s an advantage that we re
and community,” he expressed.
Lollis also believes the school’s unique house system and core virtues contribute to student success.
“We have six houses [that are] named after the squares, and they all have certain meanings. Each child is in a house until they graduate and they work with other children. . . They get to work together in teams and competitions to build that sense of community,” he began. “We also have our core values. And we talk about one virtue of the month. We reward children for exhibiting virtuous behavior, and they learn about that from Kindergar ten all the way through high school,” he explained.
With a focus on core virtues, a produc tive school culture and a rigorous curricu lum, SCA students deliver excellence in the classroom and the community.
“We have very high expectations for our students, and they meet them. They have good involvement within their schools, and we are very much involved with our community through our service learning projects. The students and teachers work really hard, and they have great academic outcomes,” he explained.
In addition to serving the student body, Lollis has accomplished much through the years in education. He earned the Gov ernor’s Platinum and Bronze awards for student achievement. He was also awarded a $2.4 million US Department of Labor grant to support students entering college for critical need careers. He has served on several boards and committees including the Governor’s Education Advisory Board and the Georgia Department of Educa tion’s Charter Advisory Committee. He is also a member of the Georgia Charter Schools Association’s COVID Taskforce.
Outside of education, Lollis enjoys spending time on the water with his wife Lisa and their two sons Jude and Luke.
Savannah Classical Academy is currently accepting lottery applications for the 202324 school year through Jan. 20, 2023. To learn more about SCA, visit savannahclassi calacademy.org
- Chantel Britton is the CEO of Savannah Classical Academy, a public charter
There are a lot of development plans in the works for Savannah, whether they are for new buildings or for repurposing old ones. Here is a summary of some of the latest.
Stay engaged Savannah, Eric Curl
The historic Savannah building that houses the venue made famous by the late Lady Chablis (and her participation in “The Book”) could be getting a makeover.
The Historic District Board of Review recently approved the new owner’s plans to renovate the late 19th-centrury structure where Club One has been hosting drag queen performances since the 1980s.
The building at 301 West Bay St. was constructed in 1893 and the upper floors are in a state of disrepair and have been vacant for many years, according to the project report.
The plan includes adding an event space on the top floor, residential apartments
on the second and third floors, and a food and beverage establishment on the ground level and in the basement. It is the owner’s intention to keep Club One as the com mercial tenant on the lower floors for the foreseeable future, according to General Manager Travis Coles.
The vacant building at 1930 Montgomery St. in Savannah’s Streetcar Historic District (photo at right) could one day serve as a “melting pot” of locals and travelers from around the world, under owner Charlie Crosby’s vision for the site.
That vision entails transforming the
building into affordable lodging accom modations for visitors on a budget who are interested in meeting other people and cre ating experiences around their visit. While the concept is quite popular internationally, the US – particularly the southeast – has been a slower moving market to catch on, Crosby said. The NotSo Hostel in Charles ton and Hostel in the Forest in Brunswick are two similar concepts in the region that Crosby said he intends to align with.
Crosby’s vision took one step forward last week, when the Historic Preservation Com mission approved his plan to renovate the building and add a second story addition on the structure’s east side. The alterations and addition allow for five lodging units with private baths on the second floor, along with commercial space on the ground level.
Crosby said he intends for the ground level to be used as a restaurant and flexible space with varying types of programming –all of which would be open to the public.
“It’s something that doesn’t currently exist in the community here, and I believe the concept would bring a great deal of diversity and engagement opportunity” he said.
The new owner is moving forward with plans to renovate the historic downtown Savannah building that previously housed the 24e Design Co., following the sale of the property last year.
Foram Group recently submitted a building permit application for the project at 24 East Broughton St., which includes al terations and a roof-top addition. The plan involves the removal of the roof structure and reducing the height of the second floor to add the third story rooftop addition, as approved by the Savannah Historic District Board of Review in May.
The first floor will retain its existing re tail use, while the second floor is expected to accommodate office space, according to the plans. A new assembly space is planned
for the new third floor.
Sales records show two limited liability corporations purchased the building in Dec. 2021 for $3.3 million. The building permit application lists the owner as Foram Group, which is the developer behind the planned mixed-use Starland Village in the Streetcar Historic District south of downtown.
Known for unique furniture and home décor, 24e Design is now operating as an online store.
The developer planning to construct an affordable housing development on former city property failed for the second year in a row to obtain state low-income housing tax credits for the downtown Savannah project.
After scoring too low, Pinyan/Procida Development Group’s application was not among the recently announced recipients of the highly competitive tax credits issued annually by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
The credits were being sought to help finance a planned 42-unit affordable apart ment complex at 1700 Drayton St., which the city sold to the development group for $750,000 last year. To support the project, the Savannah City Council authorized a $1.26 million loan to the developer in April that was contingent on the tax credits being awarded.
The failed application was the second attempt to get tax credits for the project following a failed application in 2021.
City spokesperson Keturah Greene-Luck ett said the city was working with the developer to see how they could move the project forward.
Mercy Housing Southeast had better luck obtaining more than $1 million in tax credits for the renovation of the Heritage Place Apartments in Cuyler Brownville, an other city supported project. The national nonprofit’s application was approved with the assistance of the city council, which approved a $560,000 loan to Mercy in May for the project.
DEVELOPER
STARLAND
STARTPhotos by Eric Curl
BY TRAVIS JAUDON Sports Columnist @JaudonSports
There was never a doubt. Well, maybe there was some doubt. No matter, the Georgia Southern Eagles on Sat urday in Statesboro became bowl eligible with a 51-48 double overtime win over rival Appalachian State. Under first-year head coach Clay Helton, Georgia Southern fin ished its regular season with a 6-6 overall record and a 3-5 record within the Sun Belt Conference.
Now granted, that’s not exactly a pristine record. And yes, Southern flirted with disaster by losing three of its final four games. All of that is ancient history now that this team is going bowling. Six wins means bowl eligibility and if Eagle fans were told that they’d be bowl eligible before this season ever began, they would have taken it in a second.
GS fans don’t often celebrate a .500 mark on the football field. But this season is different for so many reasons. A new coach, a new offensive scheme (from option to air raid) and dozens of new players meant a long, rebuilding season for the Eagles. Or so we thought.
Before the season, ESPN gave Georgia Southern a 28% chance of reaching the minimum six-win requirement to become bowl eligible. The Eagles have turned those odds upside down and now they are looking at bowl destina tion possibilities such as the Cure Bowl (in Orlando) or
the Myrtle Beach Bowl. Think this doesn’t matter? Think again.
“We’ve got one opportunity and that’s what I told the team,” Helton said before the App State game. “We’ve got an opportunity to go to the postseason for a lot of players that deserve it. But like I told them, I can’t give it to them; we’ve got to go earn it.”
And earn it they did. GS will be playing in its fifth bowl game since joining the FBS ranks in 2014.
“We get this next time to celebrate a season and a reward to our players,” said Helton after the App State win.
“This is critical.”
Southern joins other Sun Belt teams like Louisiana, Southern Miss, Coastal Carolina, Marshall, South Alabama and Troy in bowl eligibility. Bowls will announce their matchups on Sunday, December 4.
Is it important that Georgia Southern wins its bowl game, wherever it may be? Ehhh. Not really. The mere fact that the Eagles are in a bowl means this season was a success. It means that Georgia Southern is on the right track and the program can sell that for the remainder of the off-sea son, especially so when the transfer portal opens up true chaos in the days ahead.
Going to a bowl is not as easy as one might think. In fact, Georgia Southern is one of only two Peach State teams going bowling (UGA). That means something to recruits considering schools like Georgia State or Georgia Tech. Those teams will be sitting at home while the Eagles get a chance to play a postseason game on national televi sion. So, for anyone left wondering if GS made the right decision in hiring Helton and moving on from the option offense, they can wonder no more.
The Georgia Bulldogs finished the regular season 12-0 for the second straight year, after defeating rival Geor gia Tech 37-14 at home on Saturday. The ‘Dogs move on to take on LSU in the SEC Championship game on Dec. 2. Most consider them to be a virtual lock to make the playoffs for the second year in a row to defend their 2021 National Championship.
The Savannah Ghost Pirates Hockey team is doing well in its inaugural season in the ECHL at Enmarket Arena. The team boasts rather rabid fan support and holds a winning record early in the season. The team will host several upcoming games on Dec. 1, 2, and 8, with Friday’s game featuring “Spongebob Squarepants” on Nickelodeon night. Visit ghostpirateshockey.com for information and tickets.
Our Christmas tree is looking a little bare! Use your crayons, markers, construction paper, glue, glitter, or craft supplies! Decorate the tree so it’s fit for the Christmas Festival! You may even win a gift card to BARNES RESTAURANTS and have your photo featured in Connect Savannah!
You can mail your entry or drop it off at: 611 E. Bay St.
ATTN: Decorate the Tree Contest Savannah, GA 31401
(Do not deliver your entries to Barnes Restaurants)
• All fields on entry form must be completed to be considered valid.
• Only one entry per person.
• Artwork must be created by name on entry.
• No adult’s work will be accepted.
• Original work only.
• Entries will not be returned.
• The judge’s decision is final.
• All entries become property of Connect Savannah.
• Winners agree to allow publication of their name, and, if necessary, their likeness in Con nect Savannah and connectsavannah.com. Acceptance of any prize indicates acceptance of this clause.
• Employees of Barnes Restaurants, Connect Savannah or Morris Multimedia and their im mediate families are not eligible to win.
If you have a lover of food in your life, then it is probably fair to say that you have, at some point, run into a jam or two when it comes to finding a perfect gift. Especially for a birthday, but most certainly this time of year. I know it happens to me. Quite a bit actually. If they love to cook, they probably own any gadget they really care to have already. It’s not easy to be creative and stick to a particular budget. But is absolutely possible.
Gift cards to their favorite restaurants are the easy route. They are popular and conve
nient. Most restaurants love them. But let’s be honest, if you are trying to wow some one, a gift card to a restaurant carries about as much wow as an airport gift. I need to say I am not dismissing the option, because they are perfect for co-workers and friends. But would I buy my significant other a gift certificate to a restaurant? Probably not. All of that said, here are some other options that might get you an “atta boy” or “atta girl” on Christmas morning.
Leopold’s Ice Cream can be mail ordered and shipped anywhere in America. I have had pints sent to family members who have visited Savannah and absolutely loved the ice cream. It has become not only a treat, but a tradition for one segment of my family to receive a cooler full of ice cream fresh
from Savannah on Christmas Eve. You can find more at leopoldsicecream.com They usually run a holiday special that includes free ice cream.
Adam Turoni’s classic chocolate collec tion: no one does chocolate in Savannah like Adam. His collection of truffles are unique, beautiful and most importantly stunningly delicious. He’s offering a Spiked Eggnog Truffle, Pistachio Christmas Tree, The Melted Snowman and more. Chocolat by Adam will also ship anywhere you need some of the goodies sent. Find them at chocolatat.com
Savannah Bee Company’s Hot Honey line is perfect for that someone who likes it hot. We all know about Savannah Bee and their wonderful selection of delicious honey, but the Hot Honey is new this year and it is delicious. The first time I tried it I immedi ately pictured it on a pepperoni pizza. Yeah, it’s that good. You can find it at any of their locations or online.
Hunter Cattle Company and Ottawa Farms: Our friends at Hunter Cattle Company in Brooklet offer any of their products online, but you can also find creative gift sets for someone this year. Coastal Georgia’s favorite grass fed beef is very much available for sale on-line ORRR, you can get someone you love a gift card to Hunter Cattle and let them shop for the goods themselves. Find them at Huntercat tle.com Meanwhile, the farmhouse store at Bloomingdale’s Ottawa Farms offers a great selection of locally made gifts and edible gifts. I haven’t tried it yet, but I am told the pickled okra at Ottawa Farms is top shelf. Find more about them at ottawafarms.com
Locally Made Savannah is new to our shopping scene in Savannah. It’s a local shop on Broughton Street that features nothing but locally produced goods. Yes, a lot of it is edible. You can find some of the products we’ve already mentioned from Hunter Cattle Company as well, but there is much much more. Local cofffees (we have several in Savannah), candies of course and more. If you haven’t popped into their shop on West Broughton, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. In many ways you could end up with a one stop shop of local food gifts and goodies.
Food or Drink Classes at a cooking school or the Prohibition Museum on Congress Street:
Every year I try to remind everyone that Chef Darin Sehnert is doing a great job with his cooking school and kitchen supply store on Abercorn Street near Victory Drive. If you don’t know about him, you should. He offers cooking classes year round. A perfect opportunity to buy one or more for that special someone. You can find more at chefdarin.com.
On the beverage side, Congress Street Up-the bar located at the Prohibition Museum at Congress and Jefferson Streets offers regular cocktail for $35. You will learn, hands on, how to make some of your favorite drinks like the pros do...and then you get to drink it and like it yourself. Not a bad deal and a perfect gift for someone you know who will be visiting Savannah in 2023. Find more about them at american prohibitionmuseum.com
ENJOY AT: MIRACLE BAR 201 Port St.
MADE WITH:
Vodka, Elderflower, Dry Vermouth, Spiced Cranberry Sauce, Lime, Rosemary, Absinthe Mist
Miracle Bar is a holiday pop-up inside the opulent Thompson Savannah hotel serving up festive cocktails that are perfect to enjoy during the most wonderful time of the year. They offer a variety of themed drinks to get you in the holiday spirit.
One such cocktail is the Christmapolitan. A riff on the classic Cosmopolitan, this cocktail is zingy and tasty. The spiced cranberry sauce captures the Christmastime wonder while the rosemary garnish adds freshness. And the absinthe mist makes it adventurous. Miracle Bar will be open through Dec. 30, so head there soon to try the Christmapolitan.
by Chantel Britton
Little Diddle’s Sweetery is a local food truck delivering delicious desserts throughout the Coastal Empire. They specialize in sweet baked goods and are known for their creativity and taste. Vending a variety of cakes, cookies and cupcakes, Little Diddle’s Sweetery is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Make your holiday season a little sweeter with a festive order. Little Diddle’s Sweetery is currently offering dessert packages that are perfect for the holidays. Enjoy Christmas-themed cookies that are so good, you won’t want to leave them out for Santa. They also have holiday cakes and other baked goods available. Give them a try during Christmastime. You’ll likely become a year-round customer.
There will be food, fun, and of course, great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Who knows may even get to meet the big guy Santa.
Participating merchants include: Arcanum, Asher + Rye, Brick House Living , Circa Lighting, Custard Boutique, Gaston Crue, Hannah E, Madam Chrysanthemum, Mercer House Carriage Shop, One Fish-Two Fish, Peaches, StoneLords, The Annex, and The Printed Peach.
Whitaker Street, Savannah (Retail Merchants Between Charlton and Gordon Street)
By Chantel Britton chantel@connectsavannah.com
The Savannah African Art Museum will be hosting a Kwanzaa Marketplace every Friday in December. Now in its second year, the Kwanzaa Marketplace will feature artists and vendors selling artwork, jewelry and other goods that are either from Africa or inspired by African culture. Orga nizers say the marketplace is a great opportunity to learn about Kwanzaa, shop for unique items and celebrate the cultural diversity of our community.
The museum’s education coordinator Lisa Jackson came up with the idea for the Kwanzaa Marketplace from her own experience putting together similar events in the past.
“I’m from Brooklyn, New York, and I worked with a lot of different groups that do a lot of these cultural events. We would do Kwanzaa events and have different artists and a marketplace, so it was something that I was accustomed to doing. It was something that I suggested we do last year, so we did,” she explained.
Last year, the Kwanzaa Marketplace took place on two days, featuring just two vendors. This year, the museum staff decided to expand the event and feature more artists. Several of the featured artists and vendors participated in the museum’s Juneteenth celebration and are returning for the Kwanzaa Marketplace. For Jackson, fostering relation ships with the artists and vendors is key.
“We have a relationship with several of the artists here at the museum. Some are employees and one is a docent here,” she explained.
Most of the vendors are local to Savannah, making the Kwanzaa Marketplace a great place to discover local art. In addition to the marketplace, guests will be able to tour the museum and make the connection between the items on sale and the artworks on exhibit.
“We have over a thousand pieces of African art from West Africa and Central Africa. So people can come and make
that direct connection,” said Jackson.
She encourages the community to come out and attend the marketplace and learn about Kwanzaa, which is ob served between Dec. 26 and Jan. 1.
“Kwanzaa is an African American holiday based on an African celebration called First Fruits. . . This is a time of harvest, gathering, exchanging of goods and celebration within the community. It’s a cultural celebration . . . People can come out and see what it is connected to and why we’re celebrating it. They’ll learn the different principles of Kwan zaa. This is a good place for people to come and learn more,” she explained.
‘It’s extremely important to celebrate our cultural diver sity because it helps us get to know each other better and to know the history and the culture in order to respect and understand it. And in doing so, hopefully bring about more harmony,” said Jackson.
In addition to the marketplace, the Savannah African Art Museum will host a special Kwanzaa workshop on Saturday, Dec. 10. Participants will learn about the cultural obser vance and its significance, and they’ll also create their own Kwanzaa banner. The workshop is the final installment of the museum’s “African Symbols: Past & Present” series, which has been educating the public about African symbols.
“With so much excitement about the two films released this fall, the “Black Panther” sequel and “Woman King,” while people are interested in Africa [we decided] to provide some information in connection to that. . . We did different workshops based on some of the African symbols, some that you might have seen in the two films and others that you might not know about,” Jackson began. “So, Kwanzaa is the last of the series . . . There are symbols that are principles of Kwanzaa. There are certain symbols for each day for those principles. So, this is the wrap up,” she continued.
Each Friday, the museum will host different vendors selling a variety of goods. Up first is local African imports market Diaspora Marketplace, which will offer home decor, clothing and jewelry on Dec. 2. The following week on
Dec. 9, the Kwanzaa Marketplace will feature Viyanca, a fine artist and book illustrator selling printed and original works; Ari’s Handmade Jewelry, a mother daughter duo offering handmade pieces; and Torreah ‘Cookie’ Washing ton, a master quilter and teacher originally from Morocco. Ghana native and fine artist William Kwamena-Poh will be the featured vendor on Dec. 16 with original paintings and prints available. The Kwanzaa Marketplace will conclude on Dec. 23 with Savanna Naturals, which specializes in all-nat ural handmade body care products; Ingrid J Boutique, which vends handmade clothing and accessories; and Obi Nwosisi, a Nigerian-born visual artist with a variety of prints and original works available for purchase.
Both the workshop and the Kwanzaa Marketplace are free and open to the public, however registration is required for the workshop.
For more information, visit savannahafricanartmuseum.org
VIYANCA
TORREAH COOKIE WASHINGTON
OBI NWOSISI
WILLIAM KWAMENA-POH
The story of a man named Gil who walks from New York to Arizona to recover from a failed love. After he arrives, new neighbors move into the glass-walled house next door and his life begins to mesh with theirs. In this warmly textured, drily funny, and philosophical account of Gil’s unexpected devotion to the family, Millet explores the uncanny territory where the self ends and community begins―what one person can do in a world beset by emergencies.
Ramona’s got a bratty boss, a toddler teetering through toilet training, a critical mom who doesn’t mind sharing, and oops—a cheating husband. That’s how a Category Four hurricane bearing down on her life in Savannah becomes just another item on her to-do list. In the next forty-eight hours she’ll add a neighborhood child and the class guinea pig named Clarence Thomas to her entourage as she struggles to evacuate town.
A novel that asks: In the shadow of existential threat, where does hope live?
Ignoring the persistent glow of her minivan’s check engine light, Ramona navigates police check points, bathroom emergencies, demands from her boss, and torrential downpours while fielding calls and apology texts from her cheating husband and longing for the days when her life was like a Prince song, full of sexy creativity and joy.
This is the story of five women . . .
On the streets of Boston, the world is divided into the ordinary Usuals, and the paranormal Unorthodox. And in the Department of Un orthodox Affairs, the Auditors are the magical elite, government-sanctioned witches with spells at their command and all the power and prestige that comes with it. Grimshaw Griswald Grimsby is…not one of those witches.
Meet Rachel Grossman. She’ll stop at nothing to protect her daughter, Aviva, even if it ends up costing her everything.
Meet Jane Young.She’s disrupting a quiet life with her daughter, Ruby, to seek political office for the first time.
Meet Ruby Young.She thinks her mom has a secret. She’s right.
Meet Embeth Levin. She’s made a career of cleaning up her congressman husband’s messes.
Meet Aviva Grossman. The Internet won’t let her or anyone else forget her past transgressions.
After flunking out of the Auditor training program and being dismissed as “not De partment material,” Grimsby tried to resign himself to life as a mediocre witch. But he can’t help hoping he’ll somehow, some way, get another chance to prove his skill. That op portunity comes with a price when his former mentor, aka the most dangerous witch alive, is murdered, and Grimsby becomes the number one suspect.
This is the story of five women and the sex scandal that binds them together.
Rafi Francisco needs a splashy case to put her true-crime podcast on the map. Her plan? Land an interview with Fly Fest headliner River Stone, who rocketed to stardom after his girlfriend’s mysterious disappearance―and expose him as the killer she’s sure he is.
For Regan, people are predictable and tedious, including and perhaps especially herself. She copes with the dreariness of existence by living impulsively, imagining a new, alternate timeline being created in the wake of every rash decision.
To Aldo, the world feels disturbingly chaotic. He gets through his days by erecting a wall of routine: a backbeat of rules and formulas that keep him going. Without them, the entire framework of his existence would collapse.
But when Rafi―and the hordes of influenc ers―arrive at Fly Fest, the dreamy Caribbean getaway they were promised turns out to be a nightmare. Soon, Rafi is fighting for her life against power-hungry beauty gurus and spotty WiFi. And, as she gets closer to River, she discovers that his secrets might have even bigger consequences than she suspected.
For Regan and Aldo, life has been a matter of resigning themselves to the blueprints of inevitabil ity until the two meet. Could six conversations with a stranger be the variable that shakes up the entire simulation?
Cedar House
NOV 30 - DEC 6, 2022 Enjoy a local art show focused on natural forms created with pencils and paint.
“LOOK!”
Sulfur Studios
Through December 17 This show brings together many of Savannah’s local artists under one roof for an unforgettable art experience!
Laney Contemporary Fine Art
through January 14, 2023 Visitors will enjoy a thoughtful drawing exhibition focused on abstract ideas such as time, perception, and thought.
8 Laney Contemporary Fine Art November 4, 2022 through January 14, 2023
Viewers will experience a philosophical contemporary art exhibition created by a group of female artists.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through January 2, 2023 Experience a thoughtful exhibit on the rapidly changing world in the modern age through fascinating sculptural work.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through December 26, Viewers will take in an exhibit focusing on architecture using cyanotype, “an early photographic process and precursor to the blueprint.”
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Dec. 26.
A great exhibition for Savannah’s dog lovers! This art collection focuses on the characteristics of our canine friends in a variety of mediums.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Jan. 2, 2023
Roxy Paine displays her large scale sculptures that dive into topics such as the natural world and human actions.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Dec. 26.
Experience sculpture derived from traditional Brazilian straw weaving techniques combined with other materials including beads, ceramic, and more.
“STUDIES IN FORM”
Seher Shah and Randhir Singh
SCAD Museum of Art Through Dec. 26.
Viewers will take in an exhibit focusing on architecture using cyanotype, “an early photographic process and precursor to the blueprint.”
ANNA PARK: “LAST CALL”
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Jan. 2, 2023
Experience Anna Park’s large scale charcoal drawings that exist in a blended style of abstraction and figuration.
“AARON DOUGLAS: SERMONS”
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Dec. 31.
The exhibition looks at celebrated artist, Aaron Douglas, from the Harlem Renaissance era and displays modern artists’ work alongside his to display his lasting influence.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Jan., 2023
A perfect exhibition for 3D art enthusiasts. The work showcases invented design features and construction of sculptures influenced by the natural world.
SCAD Museum of Art
Through Jan. 16, 2023
A truly unique claymation based exhibition that will fulfill any macabre art lover’s interests.
GOTHIC SOUL: CHARLES MERYON Jepson Center, Through Jan. 8, 2023. Come see the revealing exhibit that focuses on the art and life of Charles Meryon, a French artist who specialized in
To submit an ART PATROL listing, please enter an event at connectsavannah.com
black and white etchings after finding that he was colorblind. This is an amazing opportunity to step back in time and view a celebrated artist of the 19th century.
A group exhibition bringing together an international collection of artists who have disrupted or extended the traditional presentation of still lifes. The artists have appropriated the genre in order to create works within a framework of Black diasporic identities, histories, and collective experiences. Jepson Ctr.
The Drive Thru Art Box at Green Truck Pub. 2430 Habersham St ThroughDecember 8 sulfurstudios.org/drivethruart José Ray is working on transparent plexi-glass with mixed media and light to create an engaged and fantastical landscape.
Through January 29, 2023 This exhibition takes viewers through the entire career of the late painter Phillip J. Hampton. The varied work includes everything from abstract to illustrative realism, many of which were created in Savannah.
Savannah Cultural Arts Center
Through Dec. 3 SOY X SOY (x=como), ‘I Am Who/What I Am,’ is a collective of Latin, Hispanic and Native American creatives working together to curate a variety of experiences through a series of artistic engagements, exhibitions, performance, culinary arts and installations.
The work features whimsical canvases that show cats doing very “un-catlike” things such as riding dragons, fighting with lightsabers, and going on martini dates.
The
for
Friday, December 2
5-9pm
conjunction with First Fridays in Starland. Work can be viewed online at sulfurstudios.org/whiteelephant
If fiber art is more your bag, you will want to stop by the JEA Art Gallery, 5111 Abercorn Street, on Sunday, December 4 between 2 and 4pm when the Fiber Guild of the Sa vannahs presents “In Search of the Golden Fleece.” Fiber Guild members share inspiration and techniques using spinning, weaving, dyeing, quilting, knitting, basketry, rug making, paper manipulation, needle felting, crocheting and more.
The Savannah Gallery of Art located at 304 E. Bryan Street (see my column of November 2022 ) hosts an opening reception, holiday celebration and awards ceremony on Friday, December 9 from 6-8pm. The gallery’s 2nd annual juried exhibit comes with $2,000 in cash prizes, including a $1,000 Crystal Beer parlor Best of Show award.
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, December 13 between 6 and 9pm to check out “Hanging Around: Prelude,” early artwork by sculptor and ceramic artist Derek Larson (see my column of February 2) at 208 Wine Bar, 208 Bay Street The collection of paintings and illustrations was created between 2011 and 2014. Ceramic items priced under $100, prints priced under $50 and custom hand-made frames will be available, with 10% of print purchases being donat ed to three local charities. Work will be on display through January 9.
2011, 6’x4’,
When Savannah’s “great connector” Bunny Ware makes an introduc tion, you pay attention.
By Beth Logan ART COLUMNISTAt Hospice Savannah’s annual Summer Nights party and art auction this year, Bunny connected me with a young woman called Jessie Fream.
We arranged to meet three months later to discuss her first solo show to be held this Friday and Saturday night at Cedar House Gallery.
Formerly a sales rep for a national physical therapy equipment sup plies company and now doing their social media, Fream lives and works in her compact cozy house in the Gordonston neighborhood. She seems to be in a contemplative mood... Her job situation is changing… She is turning forty in January.
“My dad has this quote: ‘every day of your life, you lay down a dot, but only later in life can you look back and connect them.’”
The connecting dots or thread in her life, Fream feels, is her creativi ty. “My soul is just dead if I’m not in a job that is creative. Looking back,
I was drawing a lot, and then being creative in soccer coming up with different passes and plays.”
While she loved art classes, she never considered studying art in college, and because of her phenomenal soccer skills was awarded a sports scholarship to the University of San Francisco. When the coach resigned at the last minute, she ended up attending Georgia Southern for a year before transferring to Kennesaw State where they were just starting their first women’s soccer team.
Fream says, “We lost one game our first year and the next year, 2003, we became the NCAA Division II Women’s Soccer National Champion ship team.” Captaining the Owls for three years is one of her proudest achievements. Today, that would lead to a professional soccer career, but back then, there was no women’s league, and so, armed with a degree in communications and public relations with a minor in market ing, she took a job with a PR agency in Manhattan.
Having grown up in the small town of Hendersonville, Tennessee,
Fream laughs and says, “I had a quarter-life-crisis moving from Kennesaw, Georgia to Manhattan! Right around then was when Oprah was telling everyone to pursue their life’s purpose (I’m still trying to figure that out), and I took it seriously and started on a path of wondering how I could do the most good. I thought I could do it with Nike’s soccer division and took a job with them in Oregon as a blogger and soccer club rep.”
Fream’s dream job of promoting soccer to young girls and women for Nike ended abruptly after an incident in 2008.
To read, or listen, to her whole story titled “Perspec tive,” visit her website JessieFream.com. It begins with the beautiful statement: “A strong woman stands up for herself. A stronger woman stands up for everyone else.”
She says, “I have a dream to help the YMCA in par ticular, but also Boys and Girls Clubs, Special Olympics, and others. I’ve played at the Y, I’ve coached at the Y, and I’ve figured out a way to give people free products based on purchasing. I would love to see all these girls get new uniforms and cleats that are nicer than the guys’ jerseys. I not only want girls to play soccer, but I also want to elevate them. No more making fun of them.”
Despite the circumstances around her leaving her job, “I think there is a possibility one day that Nike will implement my idea.”
Fream explains that, despite the pain of reliving the memories in “Perspective,” something was urging her to tell her story and she likens it to the voice she sometimes hears telling her “to get out, right now, and take this photo. It’s almost a divine thing.”
Fream is referring to the images she feels drawn to take of people and landscapes…
After Portland, she moved back to the south and created the blog project Humans of the Atlanta Beltline (changed for trademark reasons to Humans of the Atlanta Heartline), and now, in Savannah, Humans of Savannah.
The famous Humans of New York blog with more than twenty million followers on social media, grew from creator Brandon Stanton’s initial goal of photo graphing and interviewing 10,000 New Yorkers.
Similarly, Fream says, “I love telling other people’s stories. I’m obsessed with perspective - how you see something is so different from how I see it. I’m making a book right now.”
Fream’s Humans blogs are an ongoing passion, but she categorizes them as distinct from her art: beautiful, large scale color photographs illuminated from within. Hard to label, she says, “I’ve settled on calling myself a Lowcountry photographer and light artist.”
We go outside to Fream’s spacious outdoor yard and garage where her illuminated artwork is assembled and stored. Images of cloudscapes are almost magically lit and can darken or lighten to a warm glow through the turning of a dial.
Similarly, her “Savannah Moments” photographs, which include such iconic images as Wormsloe’s avenue of oaks, a Tybee sunset, and the cobblestones of Factor’s Walk, shift perspective through her use of light.
Explaining why she feels called to work with light, Fream says, “I think looking back I went through a seasonal depression living in Portland. I love the sunlight. That was one of the reasons why I moved here.” Despite two recent melanoma surgeries, she has no regrets about returning to Georgia. By moving from Atlanta to Savannah two years ago, she lowered
her mortgage payment by downsizing, found a slower pace of life, has less travel, created space to make her art, and has more time with Holly, a timid and loveable Chihuahua rescued from a horrendous life as a breed ing bitch in a puppy mill.
To achieve the luminosity in her images, Fream custom builds each piece to order. Patrons choose their image, size, a black or aluminum frame, and the location for the power cord. Dimmable units come with a remote control allowing them to switch off the light altogether or achieve multiple moods with various degrees of lighting. An image of oak trees in Lafayette Square looks like a sepia tone photograph when turned off, but when lit, it glows and almost comes to life. “I’m obsessed with perspective shifts!” she says.
The show at Cedar House is in collaboration with Fream’s friend Matt Woods who will help her vision be realized through a totally immersive experience…
Imagine walking through a downtown square under moss draped oak trees as you view the “Savannah Mo ment” images and picture being on a Savannah rooftop terrace as you view the “Clouds at Sunset” collection. Truly, artwork that comes to life by light.
If you miss this weekend’s show (but please don’t!), four vertical pieces from Fream’s “Savannah Moments” collection will be displayed outside the Chatham Ball room at the Savannah Convention Center throughout 2023.
“Perspective” is on view during First Friday, December 2 from 6-9pm and on Saturday, December 3 from 1-6pm at Cedar House Gallery, 122 E. 36th Street. Find out more at jessiefreamart.com and on Instagram @jessie_fream_art. Follow her Humans of Savannah Instagram account @ humans_of_Savannah
The Savannah Music Festival (SMF) announced its 2023 season, which runs from March 23 through April 8, 2023.
“Our 34th season expands upon what our organization has always championed, creating a compelling musical experience of global scope within Savannah’s Historic Dis trict,” remarks Savannah Music Festival Artistic Director Ryan McMaken. “We welcome audiences and artists into our creative community to enjoy stellar performances in intimate, historic indoor venues as well as expansive outdoor spaces.”
Called “one of the Southeast’s most creative cross-cul tural musical events” by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the 17-day festival has been raising the bar each year by showcasing an exceptional cross section of award-winning icons, trailblazing contemporaries and dynamic newcom ers. SMF 2023 features a series of outdoor performances at Trustees’ Garden, including two nights showcasing living legend and blues pioneer Buddy Guy on his “Damn Right Farewell” tour with special guests Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Eric Gales, King Solomon Hicks and Jontavious Willis. The Tedeschi Trucks Band returns after a four-year hiatus, and New Orleans jam favorites Galactic teams up with funk maestro Cory Wong and the jazz, R&B and pop fusion of Nate Smith + KINFOLK for a special performance.
Classical highlights include the Philip Dukes & Friends chamber music series, led by the world-renowned vio la player and SMF Associate Artistic Director Dukes. A
concert by the Zurich Chamber Orchestra, also with Dukes and former SMF Artistic Director Daniel Hope, represents a symbolic passing of the baton from Hope to Dukes. Ad ditionally, the esteemed chamber ensemble the Emerson String Quartet makes a stop in Savannah on their final tour, the Dover Quartet performs with Savannah’s own Jo seph Conyers, and acclaimed emerging pianists Alexander Malofeev and Drew Petersen give recitals.
Also known for unique artist collaborations, the 2023 festival will offer a number of one-time-only programs and special double bills. Melding world music with Ameri cana, Malian master of the ngoni (precursor to the banjo) Bassekou Kouyate shares a bill with Jake Blount, scholar/ performer of the Black string band tradition, appearing with Nic Gareiss and Laurel Premo. Master old-time and bluegrass practitioners Bruce Molsky, Tony Trischka and Michael Daves share the stage with The Onlies, which finds the mentors alongside a young, award-winning string band. Newgrass pioneers Sam Bush and Jerry Douglas share the stage, with Bush’s set featuring the inimitable music of the late John Hartford. Acclaimed jazz violinist Regina Carter offers “Gone in a Phrase of Air,” an origi nal music and multimedia performance that explores the effects of the urban renewal of the 1950s and 1960s. Kenny Barron, Dave Holland and Johnathan Blake celebrate Barron’s 80th birthday, Terence Blanchard & E-Collec tive perform with the Turtle Island Quartet, and Grammy
Award-nominated jazz singer Cécile McLorin Salvant shares the stage with vocal sextet San Salvador.
Always exceeding expectations for festival goers who are eager to discover new favorites, 2023 debut artists include Terence Blanchard, Patty Griffin, St. Paul & the Broken Bones, Leo Kottke, Regina Carter, Sona Jobarteh, Natu Camara, Stanton Moore Trio, Los Lobos, The Alt with Oisin McAuley, Téada, S.G. Goodman, Harold Lopez-Nussa’s “Timba a la Americana” and more. Additional highlights include a Zydeco Dance Party featuring Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, a Latin Dance Party with Eddie Palmieri’s Latin Jazz Band, as well as a Cajun Dance Party featuring The Lost Bayou Ramblers.
In addition to excellence in musical presentations, SMF is also committed to supporting music education in the Savannah community, with programs inside and outside of the classroom. Musical Explorers, now in its ninth year, is a year-round education program for K-2 students which reaches over 10,000 children locally. SMF Jazz Academy is a free after-school program for students in grades 5-12, offering instruments, private lessons, public performances and more for in-depth, immersive learning experiences.
Tickets start at $31 and can be purchased online at savan nahmusicfestival.org, by phone at 912.525.5050 or in person at the Savannah Box Office, located at 216 E. Broughton St.
TUESDAY, MARCH 21
Pink Martini feat. China Forbes (pre-festival concert)
THURSDAY, MARCH 23
Noon30: Christian Sands, piano
Christian Sands High Wire Trio*
Aaron Lee Tasjan / S.G. Goodman
Zurich Chamber Orchestra feat. Daniel Hope & Philip Dukes
FRIDAY, MARCH 24
Sona Jobarteh / Natu Camara*
Alexander Malofeev, piano
The Infamous Stringdusters / Sierra Hull
SATURDAY, MARCH 25
KODO: Tsuzumi
Buddy Guy “Damn Right Farewell” Day One w/ Eric Gales & King Solomon Hicks
SUNDAY, MARCH 26
Philip Dukes & Friends I: Schubertiade
Buddy Guy “Damn Right Farewell” Day One w/ Christone “Kingfish” Ingram & Jontavious Willis
TUESDAY, MARCH 28
Anna Tilbrook & Friends
Charles McPherson Quintet feat. Sean Jones /Joe Alterman Trio with Houston Person*
Maeve Gilchrist: The Harpweaver
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29
Noon30: Charles McPherson Quintet feat. Sean Jones
Philip Dukes & Friends II: Purcell, Mozart, Beethoven
Tedeschi Trucks Band / Eddie 9V opens
THURSDAY, MARCH 30
Noon30: Bruce Molsky & Maeve Gilchrist
Eddie Palmieri Latin Jazz Band (Dance Party)*
Bruce Molsky, Tony Trischka & Michael Daves / The Onlies St. Paul & The Broken Bones
FRIDAY, MARCH 31
Noon30: Bruce Molsky
Jack Liebeck, violin & Sebastian Knauer, piano
Vivian Leva & Riley Calcagno / The Foreign Landers*
Cajun Dance Party: The Lost Bayou Ramblers*
Terence Blanchard feat. the E-Collective & Turtle Island Quartet
SATURDAY, APRIL 1
Noon30: Pasquale Grasso Trio
Alexa Tarantino Quartet / Pasquale Grasso Trio*
Stanton Moore Trio / Roosevelt Collier*
Philip Dukes & Friends III: Dohnanyi’s Delight Los Lobos
SUNDAY, APRIL 2
Galactic / Cory Wong / Nate Smith
TUESDAY, APRIL 4
Philip Dukes & Friends IV: The Finale
GER Mandolin Orchestra, Mike Marshall, Music Director
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5
Regina Carter: Gone in a Phrase of Air
Sam Bush Plays John Hartford / The Jerry Douglas Band
THURSDAY, APRIL 6
Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba / Jake Blount, Nic Gareiss & Laurel Premo*
Dover Quartet with Joseph Conyers
Leo Kottke
FRIDAY, APRIL 7
The Alt with Oisín McAuley / Téada*
Kenny Barron & Dave Holland Trio with Johnathan Blake*
Emerson String Quartet
Patty Griffin
The Alt with Oisín McAuley / Téada
SATURDAY, APRIL 8
Noon30: Téada
Etienne Charles: Traces feat. Vincent Ségal, Jorge Glem & Or Bareket / Harold López-Nussa: Timba a la Americana feat. Gregoire Maret, Luques Curtis & Ruy
Adrian López-Nussa*
Zydeco Dance Party: Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys*
Drew Petersen, piano
Cecile McLorin Salvant / San Salvador
(*denotes multiple concert times)
Payne Bridges may have arrived in Sa vannah over a decade ago with no musical knowledge, but she is now an artist with a unique style and voice that can be found playing at some of the city’s most popular live music hubs.
Growing up in Southwest Georgia, traditional Motown Country Music was a staple in her house. This is the sound that sparked the imagination of Payne and made her fall in love with music.
At age 22, she decided that music was her path and began self teaching herself guitar.
“I just got online and started looking up where to put my fingers, chord sheets, and stuff like that,” she says. Today, her guitar skills are a key part of her musical career along with her lyrics and vocals.
As with most people, her appreciation of music expanded with age.
“I grew to love pop, rap… honestly there really isn’t a genre I don’t like.”
This open minded view of music is apparent in her work, as she notably blends multiple styles into something all her own.
“I would describe my style as country pop with blues influence and soulful vocals.”
Like many of the blues and Motown country artists before her, Payne loves to harness emotion to fuel her music. But unlike these artists of the past who relied mostly on the sad human experience, Payne likes to shed light on the brighter experiences of life, as well.
She explains, “I have a song called ‘Spins’ that I am very proud of and it hits on the positive feelings of love.”
From unexpected beginnings, Payne is now a well known figure in the Savannah music scene, a scene she holds in high regard.
“Here it seems like the mentality is ‘if one person wins, we all win’ so I really love that. I love the collaborative aspect. There are a lot of people who play in multiple bands and it is viewed as a good thing.”
This music community shines through in Payne’s recorded work. Payne has one recording project completed called “GA Flame LA Burn.”
The EP is a self created project that also
includes a variety of local artists from the area.
Fans of her music can catch Payne play ing at a variety of locations around town.
“I really love playing at The Wyld just because of the beautiful scenery. It just gives me that ‘pinch myself’ feeling, play ing right down by the water. I also really love playing at Foxy Loxy. It is just a really special and intimate space,” she explains.
Foxy Loxy is just one of the locations where Payne has a scheduled upcoming performance.
Though she has made waves within the Savannah music community, Payne isn’t planning on slowing down anytime soon. She has her eyes set on expanding outside of Savannah with her art, as well.
“I have always dreamed and will truly make it happen one day, to do an east
coast tour from New Hampshire down to Florida.”
In addition to this, Payne wants to expand her recorded music resumé.
She explains, “I’d love to do another recording project. I’m trying to get all of the songs and content together and get the right people in the room for that, but it is for sure a goal of mine.”
For locals looking to catch a Payne Bridges show, she is scheduled regularly around town in the city’s favorite live mu sic spots such as Service Brewing, Edgars Proof & Provisions, Foxy Loxy, the Wyld, and more.
And for fans wanting to end the year with great ambiance and even better mu sic, Payne is scheduled to perform on the Foxy Loxy patio on Dec. 30.
The ladies of DD have fun with burlesque, adding more comedy and audience participation than usual. It’s neo, but rests on a solid foundation of flirtatious striptease from a talented troupe of pros respectfully expanding the art form.
FRI DEC 2 | 9:30 PM
By Frank Ricci
Anders Thomsen is an absolute shredder on the six string, conjuring up a miraculous sonic stew reminiscent of Chet Atkins stumbling over Dick Dale who just walked into a pole staring at Dolly Parton while lost at a rodeo.
THU DEC 1 | 6 PM
Cleveland native Christian Smith turned down an athletic scholarship to Kent State to pursue music, and EDM fans have rejoiced since. He’d been making music as Crankdat since high school, but broke out with a remix of Fetty Wap’s “Trap Queen.” Countless successful original tracks and remixes later, he’s a young veteran with loads of cred.
SAT DEC 3 | 10 PM
You can’t be sure what you’ll get, but you can be sure it’ll make you laugh. Knight can perform clean or not even close, telling stories and making observations you didn’t think of because you’re not a professional comic. The T.I. beef is allegedly squashed, but might be good for some residual laughs. Only one way to find out.
SAT DEC 3 | 8 PM
Cohen’s Retreat
Midtown Pickers, 6 p.m. Driftaway Cafe
Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m.
McDonough’s Blues with Eric Culberson, 9 p.m.
Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m. Oak 36 Bar + Kitchen
OAK 36 LIVE MUSIC
WEDNESDAY, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
TRIVIA & GAMES
Moodright’s
Duckpin Bowling League Night, 8 p.m.
Service Brewing Company
Trivia Night with Jess Shaw, 6:30 p.m.
The Wormhole Bingo, 10 p.m.
KARAOKE Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.
COMEDY
Totally Awesome Bar Savannah Comedy Underground, 9 p.m.
THURSDAY
LIVE MUSIC
Cohen’s Retreat
Munchies & Music, 5-9 p.m. Jazz’d Tapas Bar Anders Thomsen Trio
TRIVIA & GAMES Bar Food
Trivia Night, 8 p.m.
McDonough’s Family Feud, 7 p.m.
The Wormhole Trivia, 10 p.m.
KARAOKE
Bay Street Blues
Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.
McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.
COMEDY
Totally Awesome Bar
Open Mic Comedy, 8:30 p.m.
DJ Club 51 Degrees
DJ B-Rad, 9 p.m.
Top Deck
Sunset Deck Party, 6 p.m.
VICE Lounge + Mojito Bar
Latin Night with DL Cesar, first Thursday of every month, 9 p.m.
BAR & CLUB EVENTS
Service Brewing Company
Service Brewing Run Club, 6:30 p.m.
LIVE MUSIC
Coffee Bluff Marina LAX, 6 p.m.
Jazz’d Tapas Bar Tiz and Jane Band
Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant
JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Service Brewing Company
Bluegrass By The Pint with Swamptooth, 6 p.m.
Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m.
Tybee Post Theater
Still Standing: A Tribute to Elton John 2022
TRIVIA & GAMES
PS Tavern Beer Pong Tournament, 10 p.m.
KARAOKE
Bay Street Blues
Karaoke
Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.
McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Karaoke Night, 9 p.m.
The Hive Repertory Theatre LLC
Adult Night Out - Karaoke!, 8 p.m.
Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.
DJ
Club 51 Degrees
DJ Fer, DJ Emalo, DJ Lil G, DJ BRad, 9 p.m.
Congress Street Social Club DJ Square One, 10 p.m.
BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m.
Rock House Music & Dance, 10 p.m.
SATURDAY 12/ 3
LIVE MUSIC
Coffee Bluff Marina Gary Strickland, 6 p.m. El Rocko Lounge Klept, Challenger Deep,
Lobstrosity, 8-11:30 p.m. Enmarket Arena 90’S KICKBACK STARRING MONICA
Jazz’d Tapas Bar Voodoo Soup
Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant
JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m.
Tybee Post Theater
An Old Fashioned Christmas
TRIVIA & GAMES
Blueberry Hill Pool Tournament, 2 p.m.
KARAOKE
Bar Food
Karaoke Night, 10 p.m.
Bay Street Blues Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.
McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.
Rock House
Karaoke, 9 p.m.
Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.
Front Porch Improv Adult Drop-in IMPROV Class, 10 a.m.
DJ
Congress Street Social Club
DJ Kut Daily, 10 p.m.
BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One
Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m.
Over Yonder
Honky Tonk Saturdays
Collins Quarter at Forsyth Ember City, 2 p.m.
Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m.
Jazz’d Tapas Bar Ray Lundy
Myrtle & Rose, Rooftop Garden Plant Riverside
Live Jazz Sunday Brunch
Featuring the Howard Paul Jazz Trio, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Roy Swindell, 7 p.m.
Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m. Tubby’s Tank House (Thunderbolt)
Bucky and Barry, 1 p.m. TRIVIA & GAMES Moon River Brewing Co. Trivia, 6 p.m.
Bay Street Blues
Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.
LIVE MUSIC
Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m. The Wormhole Open Mic, 6 p.m.-2 a.m.
TRIVIA & GAMES Club One Super Gay Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Moodright’s BINGO, 8 p.m. Starland Yard Music Bingo, 7 p.m.
Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.
BAR & CLUB EVENTS
Fia Rua Irish Pub Family Movie Night, 8 p.m.
LIVE MUSIC
McDonough’s Open Mic/Jam, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Roy Swindell, 7 p.m. Over Yonder
First Tuesdays Bluegrass with Swamptooth, first Tuesday of every month
Savannah Spotlight Hosts Open Mic Night at Totally Awesome Bar, 9 a.m.-noon
TRIVIA & GAMES
Basil’s Pizza and Deli Trivia, 7 p.m.
Fia Rua Irish Pub Trivia, 7 p.m.
McDonough’s Trivia Tuesday, 7 p.m. Oak 36 Bar + Kitchen
OAK 36 TRIVIA TUESDAY, 6:30 p.m.; Trivia Tuesday, 9 p.m. Savannah Taphouse Trivia, 7 p.m.
Starland Yard Trivia with Chris Grimmett, 6:30 p.m.
KARAOKE
Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One
By Frank Ricci
By Frank Ricci
The Savannah-based trombonist would appear to be on a roll. After earning an undergraduate degree at Oberlin and a Master’s at Queens College, Murchison toured with the Skatalites and played in both the Count Basie and Duke Ellington bands. Now joined with Delbert Felix on bass and Xavier Breaker on drums, his band is headlining his hometown’s top jazz spot.
Get your Halloween weekend going with four bands that rock. The headliners play a strange mix of post-punk, shoegaze and roots. BAS Music uses two drummers to reach new psychedelic heights. The Maxines are grungy hard rock bordering on punk, and Xuluprohpet jam funk, reggae and rock. Like a pillowcase full of candy from strangers, there’s something for everyone.
FRI-SAT DEC 2-3 | 8 PM
FRI OCT 28 | 8 PM
The reigning queen of blues rock guitar is worthy of the early notice here, since she has sold out Victory North before. That show was absolutely smoking, as was her Sav Music Fest appearance last year. She seems to love playing Savannah, and gives no reason to complain. She just kills it.
THU DEC 8 | 8 PM
Lots of bands, so note the decidedly un-spooky daylight start time. Hard rockers Kamenar (pictured) headline with support from Kill the Sound, The Dood, Once Kings, Hassleinone, and Losing Daylight. That’s six!…six!!…six!!! live bands to rock that ass on a Halloween weekend night. $300 in cash prizes for best costumes, so get creative and go home with the munny.
SAT OCT 29 | 6:30 PM
The Athens indie rock band has been at it for nearly 15 years, building up a solid fan base playing what they call “music to make friends with.” It’s a noble calling, and it fits. With elements of psychedelia, country rock and Americana, their Venn diagram overlaps plenty of sounds you already like.
FRI DEC 2 | 8 PM
The Pittsburgh-based metalcore act headlines the loudest Halloween party in Savannah. Bang your head bloody with these yinzers and fellow metalcore madmen Circle Back (Charleston) and If Only (Augusta). Local beatdown specialists Omenkiller get the carnage splattering early. Finish your trick-or-
Experimental music isn’t often this compelling, but if you’ve seen Klept live, you may have also noticed they have something extra. Whatever it is, it works and are getting better at bringing the noise and making it music. Atlanta’s instrumental alchemists Challenger Deep and Savannah’s heavy crustaceans Lobstrosity tear it open.
SAT DEC 3 | 8 PM
The hardest working man in indie pop returns to Savannah for the fourth time in the last 12 months. As cliché as it sounds, the shows keep getting better. If you’ve seen the relentless Freeze and his band in action, you already know this. If you’ve managed to miss the last three, prepare for Friday Night Rectification. A guaranteed monster show.
FRI OCT 28 | 9 PM
ACROSS 1. Andruw Jones and Mike Trout, for two (abbr.) 4. “Very much yes,” in the Yucatan 8. Salon stuff 14. Lab tubes for measurement 16. Yellow-flowered plant used medicinally 17. Upscale deli section, maybe 18. The sweet stuff 19. French schools 20. Salamander added to Minecraft in 2021 21. Class
“Down on the Corner” band, briefly 24. Pick up 25. Qty. 26. Some barn noises 28. They involve a lot of prediction 35. Sweepers and others 37. Panel show featuring David Mitchell and Lee Mack 38. Like some calculators 39. Aftermath Records founder, familiarly 40. Type of bath salts 45. Grandma, in Gloucester 46. Certain steakhouse orders 48. Festival purchase with perks
Hypothetical words
Cosmo cohort
Stoop 55. “Save it!”
Pat to the max
Takes a turn? 58. Treaty co-signer 59. ___-Julie, Que.
DOWN 1. Navy noncom 2. 1966 Tom and Jerry short involving a goldfish 3. Folded snack with some heat 4. Ancient Roman burial stone 5. Words after let or could 6. Extinct marine arthropods 7. Neighbor of Leb. 8. Short-haired cat breed 9. Cookies that have a gluten-free variety 10. Phil, to Will, on TV 11. Delay, in a way 12. Emulates Al Jarreau
Three-time Grammy winner Steve
Frozen meal brand touting carbon neutrality
Substratal water source
Coping mechanisms?
It surpassed the Beetle in 1997 as best-selling
Zebra groups
One who snoops
Sch. of the Horned Frogs
Norse underworld goddess
First National Leaguer with 500 homers
Summer Olympics host after London
December donation events
Zero-interest deal?
Goes to court
Set consisting of every integer doubled
First in a series
Onrush
Say what you think
Wayne, e.g.
Offered for feedback
First leg in a journey, maybe
Finalizes, with “up”
Hard water?
Queens hub, on tix
Travel plan abbr.
BUNNY IN THE CITY
By Bunny Ware
When Arra Riggs and I arrived at D. Paul Graham’s “Rev’s and Redlines: eMotion in Motion” at Cedar House Gallery on November 11, we walk in to find Paul smiling at his lady-love Lee Ann Polonus. Before I take their pic and make a lap around to see his large-format photos, let me tell you a little bit about Canada’s greatest export.
Paul’s Facebook profile gives you a brief description: “unabashed deal junkie, traveler, car-nut, inspired by light and life”. But what it doesn’t give you is how sincerely polite this native Canadian is, always with the best manners. This isn’t the only thing that stands out when you meet Paul, it’s his world famous, never-been-shaved handlebar mustache.
Many moons ago I would run across Paul at events and chat about cars, cameras and travel. Fast forward to early 2017 when I made a call to “South” Magazine to tell publisher Michael Brooks that I had the best present ever–an introduction to one of the best photographers in town. This may be my best connection in a lifetime of introducing people to who they need to know.
Okay, no more Paul praising, but a photo instead, with him and his girlfriend Lee Ann. The naturally curly haired brunette then asks for a pic with her daughter Emily, a wellness counselor with a love of yoga, essential oils and health. I then head over to hug long-last-seen Ann Carroll. Tybee Island’s yoga queen is obviously anti-aging because Ann looks younger than she did the last time I saw her!
As Ann volunteers to serve spirits and snacks, I chat with a new face, Zi “Sonic” Zhu, the owner of Sonic Motorsports at Roebling Road Raceway.
Ann Carroll, Emily Polonus Kim Gil D. “Paul” Graham, Lee Ann PolonusLearning that he designs, repairs, services and manufactures all types of race cars, I ask how he met Paul. “I followed him on Instagram and through Speedbourne / Ferrari where I am a crew member and Paul handles the photography and social media/marketing,” shares the Savannah College of Art & Design industrial design grad.
After a pic of him with his eight year old son Mach, I head into the Cedar House Gallery office area to meet Sam Williams. The gallery director is also a photographer and artist, aka Sam Cole, has wicked cool art on the wall behind her and is absolutely gorgeous!
Arriving next is Amazon bigwig Eilis Murphy and her equally photogenic friend Amy Growe, smiling couple Samuel and Berta Adams and one of the most fascinating dudes in town, Michael Shortt. From cars, film, building anything, to politics and collecting toys with Oglethorpe Driving Club, you can always count on Michael for a spirited opinion on any topic!
Up next is my Step One Automotive Group “other brother” Jon Oppenheimer. Equally as talented as Paul, Jon wins the award for best overall beard and gets a little bashful when I praise his videography talents to Tamra Lee and Arra. Telling Arra to get video tips from Jon for her new reel passion project, I head over to the front door to snap pics of new arrivals.
Yes! Walking through the door is wine and travel aficionado Meg Pace and her chill husband Tom. A fan since day one of a lady that loves her animals, taking photos of her first grandson and keeping us updated on the weather, I grab her for a long hug then pose her with Tom and Paul. Walking with her over to my favorite photo, we admire “Racing in the Rain”, a monochromatic limited edition print taken in a torrential downpour during a Sunday race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Finally! Paul has a few minutes to chat about tonight’s uber successful first photo showing. Answering my question of what prompted him to get out from behind the camera, Paul responds, “I turned 60 years old this month and just wanted to share my passion for automobiles and lifestyle images from here and abroad. My mom gave me my first camera at 13 and I wanted to give a contribution to our local Alzheimer’s chapter in her memory.”
As I walk past image after image on framed metallic paper, glass and aluminum, I recall Paul’s comments about each photo, “Every image is like a child to me. Each one evokes a memory of where I was and what I was experiencing at the time.” For me, photos give me a snapshot of life, they make memories immortal and they are the reason I love my life in Savannah so much. And like Paul, we document history, whether personal or professional and are privileged to see this city from behind the lens!
Tom and Meg Pace, D. “Paul”Graham Tamra Lee, Jon Oppenheimer, Arra Riggs Mach and Sonic Zhu Sam Williams Amy Growe, Eilis MurphyMake plans to celebrate the season with sand between your toes when you visit Tybee Island this winter.
