Connect Savannah October 21, 2020

OCT 21-27, 2020 NEWS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM

Lebos Mark Best Personal Trainer, Strong Gym

Kris

Allred

Best Local TV Meteorologist

WSAV

Chaz Ortiz Best Food Truck

Chazito’s Latin Cuisine

Photo by Adriana Iris Boatwright, Best Local Photographer at Congress Street Social Club, Best Downtown Bar

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

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O C T. 2 4 – 3 1 SCAD.EDU/FILMFEST

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Thank you for voting us

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

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R A B N W O NT W O D T S E B !

R A B O I T A BEST P !

R A B E G E L BEST COL

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TO HAVE AN EVENT LISTED IN WEEK AT A GLANCE EMAIL WAG@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. INCLUDE DATES, TIME, LOCATIONS WITH ADDRESSES, COST AND A CONTACT NUMBER. DEADLINE FOR INCLUSION IS 5PM FRIDAY, TO APPEAR IN NEXT WEDNESDAY’S EDITION.

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in October Wormsloe State Historic Site will be holding a spooky scavenger hunt.

It gives families a perfect way to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful natural and cultural resources here at Wormsloe while having some fun.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd.

WEDNESDAY 10.21 GreenDrinks Savannah

GreenDrinks Savannah is a social networking group initiated by local non-profits and businesses to engage community members in an informal setting. Everyone is welcome to attend and meet people interested in a more Sustainable and Greener Savannah.

Check the “GreenDrinks Savannah” facebook page. third Wednesday of every month, 5:30 p.m.

Lone Wolf Lounge, 2429 Lincoln St. Free to attend. Cash bar.

SUNDAY 10.25 1820 House Tour

The Davenport House Museum will stage stories of Savannah as they were being experienced by the city’s only one household and family, the Davenports’ experiences were common to Savannahians of the time. This special program coincides with the Davenport House Museum’s 200th birthday, which is being observed throughout 2020.

1-4 p.m.

Davenport House, 324 East State St. myhsf.org

Virtual cooking class

Come learn how to cook for one or two AND tips for eating healthy from Bronson’s Health Educator and author of the Empty Nest Eats blog, Chris Flood. Hosted by Amy Nichols , this innovative and interactive class is a new partnership between Bronson Wellness Center and the Campus for Creative Aging designed to entertain and encourage healthy eating. Don’t miss out! Once you purchase your FREE ticket, the Zoom link will be emailed to you.

This Class: Plenty of Pumpkin!

There’s good reason to eat more pumpkin.

It’s a superfood for everyone, especially older adults! Learn why you should eat more pumpkin, and watch Isabel and Chris make three healthy, tasty dishes, all made with a humble can of pumpkin.

2-3 p.m.

Virtual Event, Zoom.

THURSDAY 10.22

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Book Signing

Join local photographer Emily Earl in celebrating her recent monograph Late Night Polaroids, published by Ain’t-Bad this past summer. Signed copies by the photographer will be available for purchase, priced at $40 each.

6-9 p.m.

Savoy Society, 102 E. Liberty St. 912-657-1122. emilyearlphoto@gmail.com

The Lafayette Ward Walking Tours

The Lafayette Ward Walking Tours presented by the Andrew Low House Museum; Discover the Heart of Savannah’s Historic District with our Fall Walking Tour Series! Space is limited.

RSVP Andrew Low House, 329 Abercorn St. $26 912.233.1828 ex.4. csergi@andrewlow6 house.com

The Look Back: An On-going Series of Queer Cinema

Hello Neighbor SAV Yard Sign and Video Booth SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 9 AM – 1 PM

Hello Neighbor will be live on site at the Forsyth Farmers Market with HN Yard Signs -- and HN video booth! We will be recording Hello Neighbor video messages to the community to play during our Hello Neighbor Virtual Parade October 25 - November 3. Come stop by and visit - record a message or pick

FRIDAY 10.23 1820 House Tour

The Davenport House Museum will stage stories of Savannah as they were being experienced by the city’s residents 200 years ago. Though only one household and family, the Davenports’ experiences were common to Savannahians of the time. This special program coincides with the Davenport House Museum’s 200th birthday, which is being observed throughout 2020.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Davenport House, 324 East State St. myhsf.org

SATURDAY 10.24

Forsyth Farmers Market

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. Items for sale.

912-484-0279. forsythfarmersmarket.com

Islands Farmers Market

Enhanced social distancing between vendors.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Islands Farmers’ Market, 401 Quarterman Dr. facebook.com/islandsfarmersmarket

Where’s Noble Bones?

Come help us find Noble Jones, he has lost all of his Noble Bones! Every Saturday

The Look Back aims to provide a resource for queer cinema in Savannah by engaging the local community with queer theory and representation on an international level through the exhibition of queer-related moving image works from the past and present. As we learn that not all representation is revolution and look forward to a world of queer futurity, The Look Back posits itself in between the recognition and acknowledgement of how far we’ve come, and how far we have yet to go.

Last Sunday of every month, 7 p.m.

First City Pride Center, 1515 Bull St. Free, donations accepted to the Savannah LGBT center thelookbacksav@gmail.com

MONDAY 10.26

Tybee Island Farmers Market

Featuring a variety of produce, baked goods, honey, eggs, BBQ, sauces and dressings, popsicles, dog treats and natural body products. Artisans are also featured each week. The market is nonsmoking and pet friendly. Located on beautiful Tybee Island, GA at 30 Meddin Drive. We are right behind the Historic Tybee Lighthouse. Visit the website for more info.

4 p.m.

30 Meddin Drive, 30 Meddin Drive. tybeeislandfarmersmarket.com

HELP US KICK a KEG

TO KICK Cancer

Have a DRAFT scofflaw BASEMENT IPA THIS WEEKeND to say FXXX CANCER!

wednesday

Half off Boles of Wine

thursday & Sunday Friday, Saturday and Sunday

$3 Glaes of Rosé

125 West River Street On top of the cotton sail hotel

SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY NOON TO 10 PM* FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NOON TO MIDNIGHT*

www.topdeckbar.com *CLOSING HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Live dj | 6-9 pm | Drink specials

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NEWS & OPINION PUBLISHER’S NOTE Proud Sponsor

Connect Savannah is published every Wednesday by Morris Multimedia, Inc 611 East Bay Street Savannah, GA, 31401 Phone: 912.231.0250 Fax: 912.238.2041 www.connectsavannah.com twitter: @ConnectSavannah Facebook.com/connectsav ADMINISTRATIVE Erica Baskin, Publisher erica@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4378 Wendy Wickham, Business Manager wendy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4373 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Jim Morekis, Rachael Flora, Sean Kelly, Alex Neumann, Chris Sweat, Adriana Iris Boatwright, Brittany Curry, Brandy Simpkins, Jessica Farthing, Brittany Herren, Geoff L. Johnson, Lindy Moody, Jonathan Vasata, Taylor Clayton, Leila Scott ADVERTISING Information: (912) 721-4378 sales@connectsavannah.com

Alternate photo from this year’s cover shoot, with (l-r) Chaz Ortiz (Chazito’s Latin Cuisine) Mark Lebos (Strong Gym), and Kris Allred (WSAV), at Congress Street Social Club.

PHOTO, BY ADRIANNA IRIS BOATWRIGHT

Better late than never

Chris Griffin, Senior Account Executive chris@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4388 Bucky Bryant, Senior Account Executive bucky@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4381 Mandy Younce, Regional Digital Sales Manager mandy@connectsavannah.com (912) 503-0874 DESIGN & PRODUCTION

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Brandon Blatcher, Art Director artdirector@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4379

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Loretta Calhoun, Graphic Designer ads@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4380 DISTRIBUTION Wayne Franklin, Distribution Manager (912) 721-4376 CLASSIFIEDS Call (912) 231-0250

BY ERICA BASKIN

erica@connectsavannah.com

WE HAVE all heard that phrase. This year “Best of Savannah” fits in that category.

We typically produce the “Best of” edition in May. COVID-19 had different plans.

Now as the world creeps to normalcy, we bring you the “Best of Savannah” better late than never edition.

As in the past, readers voted on their favorites in seven main categories: Food and Restaurants; Nightlife and Drink; Music and Culture; Recreation, Health, and Beauty; City Life and Public Affairs; Shopping and Services; and Media.

We list all the winners, and runners -up are also listed. There are also profile stories in each category.

I would personally like to thank

everyone involved in this year’s publication.

Carly Sharec, who did the majority of this work. I’m not sure what we would have done without her. Her efforts truly were “best of”.

Our Art Director/Production Manager Brandon Blatcher and Graphic Designer Loretta Calhoun have the vision and artistic talent that few possess. They went above and beyond to make this edition a visual success.

Our sales team, Chris Griffin, Bucky Bryant and Mandy Younce. It is not easy knocking on doors during a pandemic.

Through it all, they performed with smiles on their face, a positive attitude, and much needed humor.

The distribution is done by the one and only Mayor of The Original Pinkie Masters, Wayne Franklin.

Office Manager Windy Wickham takes on every task and no question ever goes unanswered. Wendy is the go-to girl.

We would also like to thank former editor Jim Morekis and former staff writers

Sean Kelly and Rachael Flora for their contributions to this edition.

We have some terrific contributors that pitched in to make this a special edition too.

Lindy Moody Jessica Farthing Brittany Herren Brandy Simpkins Taylor Clayton Chris Sweat Jonathan Vasata Alex Neumann We also got the “Best Local Photographer” to shoot the cover photo. Adrianna Iris Boatwright did a marvelous job.

We are thankful for Congress Street Social Club for providing the location for the cover shoot too.

Thanks to everyone at the Kehoe Iron Works for hosting the awards ceremony.

We love putting this section together every year. We appreciate everyone who voted. Now it’s time to celebrate!

Cheers!

NEWS & OPINION NEWS OF THE WEIRD Architect Nick Drummond loves to renovate old houses and was told the century-old home he purchased last year in Ames, New York, had been built by a German baron who turned to bootlegging in the 1920s, but he was still surprised to find evidence within the walls on Oct. 9: dozens of bottles labeled Old Smuggler Gaelic Whisky. “We discovered multiple false walls and secret compartments under the floor in our mudroom,” he told Lite 98.7. “The foundation walls and floors in the mudroom are lined with intact cases of 1920s whiskey.” he said. Drummond said auction houses and collectors have contacted him, speculating that the value on the some of the bottles might range between $500 and $1,200.

More Things to Worry About

As many as 9 million wild pigs are roaming the United States -- expanding from 17 states to at least 39 states over the last 30 years and causing $2.5 billion worth of damage each year to crops and domestic livestock, reported The Atlantic in September. Many of the feral swine are hybrids, a mixture of domestic breeds and wild boars called “super pigs,” that multiply so fast “I’ve heard it referred to as a feral swine bomb,” said Dale Nolte, manager of the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In the U.S. and Canada, government organizations are working to control the numbers; Montana has been especially vigilant, with a 24-hour hotline for residents to call when they see the animals.

Right Time, Right Place

Postal carrier Fernando Garcia in Norwalk, California, heard someone calling for help as he walked his route on Oct. 9 and soon found a man lying on the ground, covered in blood. The unnamed victim had cut his arm with a chain saw, so Garcia leaped into action, using his belt as a tourniquet until paramedics arrived. L.A. County Sheriff Lt. Pauline Panis told CBS Los Angeles, “I think we should let everybody know that anyone can make a difference ... it’s a heartwarming story.” The victim’s family says he’s recovering.

Names in the News

As a fun way to get customers involved with the new Ikea store in Valladolid, Spain, the Swedish retailer asked the public to name the street it’s on. The Independent reported that anyone who’s been frustrated trying to assemble items bought from the store will appreciate the winning entry: Calle Me Falta un Tornillo, or I’m Missing a Screw Street. And Ikea’s OK with that: “We wanted to make our arrival here more special ... always with a touch of

humor, which defines our style,” a spokesperson said.

Latest Religious Messages

In Guadalupe, Mexico, pilgrims are flocking to a parking lot, leaving candles and flowers beside a detailed portrait of the Virgin Mary that inexplicably reappeared in early October, having been drawn in chalk by an anonymous artist in 2007.

Oddity Central reported the artist has confirmed that the drawing is the same one he created as part of a local festival, and the area is now blocked with traffic cones and watered periodically to make the image more visible. Said Felix Palomo, director of culture for the municipality, which is part of greater Monterrey, “Whether you believe in miracles or not, the question is how did this image reappear 13 years after its creation?”

she said. “I looked and there was a puddle of pee in the seats!” An off-duty police officer on the flight restrained the unidentified man, described as a well-known pastor from North Carolina, and he was taken into custody upon landing, but has not been charged. Beverly had to sit in her wet clothes for the duration of the trip and is suffering anxiety following the incident.

“Since then I have only gotten four hours of sleep,” she said.

Bright Ideas

William Hubbard, dean of the University of South Carolina School of Law, was thrilled when he saw that 82% of the school’s graduates taking the bar exam had passed, so he shared the happy news in an email to the school’s students. Unfortunately, the email also contained attachments with confidential exam scores for all who took the test -- those who passed and those who failed, The State reported.

“Please delete the message I just sent about bar passage,” Hubbard wrote in his second email. “Please do not open and, if opened, do not reveal any information in that attachment to anyone.” The former president of the American Bar Association appeared devastated by the error in an interview. “I’ve sent a personal email to every one of those students ... I am deeply, profoundly sorry for my mistake,” he said.

-- The Netherlands is home to a new trend in wellness therapy that promises serenity to those who try it: “koe knuffelen” (cow hugging). The BBC reported that a cow’s warmer body temperature and slower heartbeat are thought to increase oxytocin levels in humans, reducing stress and promoting positivity.

The practice began more than a decade ago, and now farms in Switzerland and the U.S. along with the Netherlands offer cowcuddling sessions, which typically begin with a tour of the farm before participants are invited to rest against a cow for up to three hours.

-- The Finnish airline Finnair began selling its business-class airplane food in supermarkets on Oct. 13, in an effort to keep its catering staff employed as well as offer a taste of nostalgia to travelers grounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ready-made “Taste of Finnair” dishes include reindeer meatballs, Artic char and Japanese-style teriyaki beef and cost about $12, The Associated Press reported.

Marika Nieminen, vice president of Finnair Kitchen, said the idea allows the airline to “create new work and employment for our people.” (Associated Press, 10/15/2020]

The Spirit World

Inexplicable

Oops!

The New York Post reported on Oct. 14 that Amethyst Realm, 32, of Bristol, England, announced on British morning television that her planned wedding to Ray, a ghost she met in Australia two years ago, was off because he “kept disappearing” and started hanging around with a sketchy spirit group while they were on vacation in Thailand. “He’d disappear for long periods of time. When he did come back, he’d bring other spirits to the house and they’d just stay around for days,” Realm, said. She said the decision not to marry was mutual. “He just completely changed.”

Ewwwwwww

Alicia Beverly of Detroit was sleeping in the back seat of a red-eye flight home from Las Vegas on Oct. 12 when she felt “something warm” on her side, and woke up to realize a man standing in the aisle was urinating on her, Fox 2 reported. “I screamed and that woke everybody up,”

Customs officials at the Jacksonville (Florida) International Mail Facility came across a package from Hungary on Oct. 14 that contained more than 200 equine bones -- a complete horse skeleton, United Press International reported. Daniel Alonso, acting director of field operations for Customs and Border Protection in Miami, tweeted a photo of the skeleton with the caption: “No horsing around this Halloween.” Because the package did not have a required veterinary services permit, he said it would not be sent to its destination.

Send your weird news items with subject line WEIRD NEWS to WeirdNewsTips@ amuniversal.com.

COPYRIGHT 2020 ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

THANK YOU

readers for voting us the Best Dry Cleaners in Savannah! www.currydrycleaners.com 1310 E. Derenne Ave. • 355.2930 440 Johnny Mercer Blvd. • 897.4595 currydrycleaners@gmail.com

DINE IN

Limited seating from 11-4 each day.

Hours will expand as demand increases.

Call or order online for take out

912.354.8745

5320 Water's Ave.

barnesrestaurant.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Awesome!

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#BOS2020 FOOD & RESTAURANTS

FOOD &

RESTAURANTS

BEST TYBEE RESTAURANT BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

The Crabshack

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Owner Jack Flanigan and friend PHOTOS BY ALEX NEUMANN

SURE, IT FALLS under the “Food & Restaurants” category – but along with its menu, The Crab Shack may be just as known for its casual, laid-back atmosphere as it rests off the water of Chimney Creek on Tybee Island.

“Jack and Belinda (Flanigan) bought this sprawling property back in the 80s, when it was known as Chimney Creek Fishing Camp,” explained Stephanie Hamilton, who handles the marketing for The Crab Shack. They’d run the fishing charters and would cook the fresh catches at the end of each day – most times featuring fat blue crabs and shrimp.

Eventually as more people started showing up, tables were brought in, a liquor license was obtained and a restaurant was born.

“The atmosphere really is unlike anything you will find anywhere else,” Hamilton said. “Care was taken to preserve the natural environment as the restaurant grew.

Today, you can dine under the lights in the live oak trees over the outdoor dining deck and property. And maybe even glimpse the dolphins and otters playing in Chimney Creek.”

They’re also known for the “Gator Lagoon,” where kids in particular always enjoy seeing the baby alligators. There are plenty of photo opportunities all through the restaurant.

But it really is all about the food, with a “signature blend of spices” used to season the seafood served in the traditional Low Country style – which means steamed or boiled with peel-and-eat shrimp and local crabs when available. It also includes corn and potatoes – all together in one pot, bubbling away with The Crab Shack’s signature seasoning.

“You can get fried seafood anywhere,” Hamilton said. “But people love our seafood for the authentic Low Country flavors.”

You also have the “Snow Country” boil which features snow crab. The Captain’s Sampler Platter showcases a little bit of everything – snow crab, rock crab, mussels, crawfish, shrimp, corn, potatoes and sausage.

The stews, deviled crabs and all sides are homemade, as well as the barbeque, jerk and cocktail sauces – and for those who don’t eat seafood, there’s also barbeque and sandwiches on the menu.

Diners still almost feel like it’s really nothing more than that casual meet-up at the end of the day, cooking up the fresh catch – cats roam around, you can get close to the water, and plenty of shade from the draping oak trees – it’s almost like being in a giant tree house.

It is the ample outdoor dining that has made The Crab Shack almost uniquely situated to be a great place for guests during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year has been very tough on the restaurant industry,” Hamilton said. “We’re extremely grateful that our ample space, open-air dining rooms and expansive outdoor deck have allowed us to keep operating in the safest manner possible.”

They have added options like curbside pickup and meal kits – which were being shipped for years before the pandemic, but have certainly increased in popularity as people who aren’t traveling at the moment are hankering for a taste of fresh seafood at home.

“It’s a great way to relive memories of Tybee Island and enjoy our Crab Shack experience at home,” Hamilton said.

They can ship anywhere in the continental U.S., and all meal kits come with everything needed – even the secret spice.

Also via their online store, LoCo To Go, you can purchase many of the dishes, sauces and spices separately, including “Captain Jack’s Secret Spice.”

It has been a rough year, but Hamilton is convinced of The Crab Shack’s longevity when asked where they’ll be in 50 years.

“We’ll still be here,” she said. “On the banks of Chimney Creek, serving up the food you know and love. We look forward to your visit!”

The Crab Shack is at 40 Estill Hammock Rd. and is open noon-8 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays; and noon-9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays.

FOOD & RESTAURANTS

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The Vault PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT BEST STARLAND DISTRICT RESTAURANT

The Vault Kitchen & Market (2112 Bull St.)

Located in a former bank building, The Vault pays tribute to their iconic space with a “rich” and fresh dining experience. The Thai Margarita is a particular favorite, and the Spicy Korean BBQ tacos are out of this world.

Runner-up for Best Overall Restaurant: The Grey (109 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

Runner-up for Best Starland District Restaurant: Bull Street Taco (1608 Bull St.)

BEST NEW RESTAURANT BEST ASIAN FUSION

Flock to the Wok

Thank you for voting us

BEST SEAFOOD & BEST TYBEE RESTAURANT

Connect Savannah readers!

(37 Whitaker St.)

Guests here can enjoy craft cocktails and a modern take on Asian cuisine. Head downstairs to the Peacock Lounge for an upscale, intimate space.

Runner-up for Best New Restaurant: The Fat Radish (36 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

Runner-up for Best Asian Fusion: CO (10 Whitaker St.)

BEST CHEF

Matthew Russ (Wet Willie’s)

Daquiris are always great, but sometimes you just need some good food to go with them. Chef Matthew Russ has developed a menu that reflects Savannah for this chain’s many fans.

Runner-up: Mashama Bailey (The Grey)

Lulu’s Chocolate Bar

(42 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

It’s hard to be too unhappy in such a sweet space, but multiple online reviews deem the wait staff here as “attentive,” “helpful” and “pleasant.” Sounds like a winner to us!

Runner-up for Best Desserts: Better than Sex (410 W. Broughton St.) Runner-up for Best Wait Staff: The Pirates’ House (20 E. Broad St.)

BEST TAKEOUT RESTAURANT

Zunzi’s

(108 E. York St.)

The dishes here will take your tastebuds on a trip ‘round the world. There’s a reason this both a local favorite and the place tourists can’t wait to eat at again.

Runner-up: Sly’s Slider and Fries (1710 Abercorn St.)

BEST

SEAFOOD since 1998!

facebook.com/crabshacktybee

www.thecrabshack.com

40 Estill Hammock Rd • Tybee Island, GA

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST DESSERTS BEST WAIT STAFF

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FOOD & RESTAURANTS

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BEST CATERER

Paul Kennedy Catering 1370 US-80 made

Recognized for its ongoing hospitality and delicious food.

Runner-up: Roy’s Nutz & Buttz (101 E, US-80)

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Moon River Brewing Company (21 W. Bay St.)

Craft beer, good food and dog-friendly beer garden for you to enjoy sitting outside with up to 200 of your closest friends. Sounds good to us!

Runner-up: Bull Street Taco (1608 Bull St.)

MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

The Olde Pink House (23 Abercorn St.)

Snuggle up to your sweetheart in this elegant mansion originally built in 1771. The downstairs The Olde Pink House FILE PHOTO cellar offers some of the most intimate seating, plus live music. And if the date’s not going well, at least the food is delicious – we’re partial to the Crispy Scored Flounder and a slice of Pecan Pie. Runner-up: The Vault Kitchen & Market (2112 Bull St.)

BEST LATE NIGHT RESTAURANT

The Portal Arcade, Café & Bar (408 W. Broughton St.)

Grab your friends for a night of fun with this spot’s vintage arcade games and pool tables. They also have a great selection of sandwiches, quesadillas and hot dogs to satisfy any late-night craving.

Runner-up: The Olde Pink House (23 Abercorn St.)

BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

(150 W. Saint Julian St.)

A “vintage chic” diner with a Southern-inspired menu. They offer classic buttermilk pancakes, along with chocolate chip and blueberry options.

Runner-up: IHOP (1800 E. Victory Dr.)

BEST BREAKFAST

Henry’s Restaurant (28 Drayton St.)

As one online reviewer shared about their breakfast … “strong coffee, eggs, grits, amazing sausage patties and huge fluffy pancakes!” Sounds like a winner to us.

Runner-up: Little Duck Diner (150 W. Saint Julian St.)

BEST BURGER FOR $10 OR LESS

Premier vegan café featuring locally-roasted PERC coffee, Leopold’s coconut cream milkshakes, and more. We really like the cashew cheese garlic bread.

Runner-up: The Sentient Bean (13 E. Park Ave.)

(175 W. Bay St.)

BEST SMALL PLATES RESTAURANT

Five Guys Burgers and Fries A popular fast casual restaurant chain known for its burgers and over-zealous servings of fries.

Runner-up: Green Truck Neighborhood Pub (2430 Habersham St.)

Jazz’d Tapas Bar and Restaurant

BEST VEGGIE BURGER

“Industrial chic” with cocktails and tapas to last you well into the evening of enjoying their live music.

Runner-up: The Corner Grill (111 Jazie Dr. A)

(2430 Habersham St.)

(52 Barnard St.) CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Little Duck Diner

Fox and Fig Café (321 Habersham St.)

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BEST PANCAKES

BEST STEAKHOUSE Ruth’s Chris Steak House (111 W. Bay St.)

An upmarket steakhouse chain that is a fan favorite for its butter-topped beef.

Runner-up: Belford’s (315 W. Saint Julian St.)

Green Truck Neighborhood Pub The homemade veggie pattie can be put in any of Green Truck’s burgers, like the Rustico which includes goat cheese, caramelized onions, roasted red peppers and fresh basil.

Runner-up: B&D Burgers (11108 Abercorn St.)

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Publix

(multiple locations)

Always hot, crispy and ready. Grab an eight-piece and some sides for dinner.

Runner-up: Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room (107 W. Jones St.)

FOOD & RESTAURANTS

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BEST WINGS

Wild Wing Café (27 Barnard St.)

A laid-back chain offering wings in a variety of flavors.

Runner-up: 520 Wings (2705 Bull St.)

BEST BARBEQUE

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (13051 Abercorn St.)

A chain eatery featuring house-smoked meats, stuffed baked potatoes and classic sides.

Runner-up: Sandfly BBQ (8413 Ferguson Ave.)

BEST SUB SHOP

Jimmy John’s (multiple locations)

A sandwich chain offering “freaky fast” delivery.

Runner-up: Firehouse Subs (multiple locations)

BEST SANDWICH SHOP BEST DELI BEST BAGELS

The Midtown Deli & Bagel Shop (7805 Abercorn St.)

Bringing an authentic taste of New York down south.

Runner-up Best Sandwich Shop: Zunzi’s (108 E. York St.) Runner-up Best Deli: Rocky’s NY Deli & Italian Catering (7360 Skidaway Rd.) Runner-up Best Bagels: Big Bon Bodega (2011 Bull St.)

BEST SHRIMP & GRITS BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

The Pirates’ House (20 E. Broad St.)

Their menu describes this as shrimp tossed with “andouille sausage, onions and peppers in a rich cream sauce.” We just say it’s delicious. And the kids will love getting their own pirate hat.

Runner-up for Best Shrimp & Grits: Vic’s on the River (26 E. Bay St.) Runner-up for Best Family Restaurant: Carey Hilliards (3316 Skidaway Rd.)

BEST SALAD

Kayak Kafe

(1 E. Broughton St.)

BEST PIZZERIA BEST DELIVERY PIZZA

Vinnie Van Go-Go’s (317 W. Bryan St.)

The long lines here can’t be wrong … this spot offers up huge slices of delicious pizza.

Be sure to tip the pizza guys!

Runner-up to both: Screamin’ Mimi’s (513 E. Oglethorpe Ave., Ste. P)

BEST BAKERY

Auspicious Baking Company (7360 Skidaway Rd.)

As one online reviewer wrote: “I need a lemon curd loaf for every day of my life!” Same here.

Runner-up: Back in the Day Bakery (2403 Bull St.)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Health-conscious salad options, including the Spinach & Wild GA Shrimp salad and the Vegan Taco Bowl.

Runner-up: Green Truck Neighborhood Pub (2430 Habersham St.)

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BEST MACARON SHOP

Le Macaron French Pastries (204 W. Broughton St.)

These colorful and airy pastries are always a fun treat (not to be confused with macaroons, the American coconut cookie spelled with two “o’s” instead of one).

Runner-up: Marche de Macarons (42 Abercorn St.)

BEST CUPCAKES

Gigi’s Cupcakes

(5521 Abercorn St., Ste. 100)

A bakery chain offering a rotating selection of gourmet cupcakes.

Runner-up: Wicked Cakes (38 Whitaker St.)

BEST ICE CREAM

Leopold’s Ice Cream (212 E. Broughton St.)

The iconic ice cream shop, usually with a line stretching down the street. They may have the original Tutti Frutti flavoring, but we also highly recommend the Rum Bisque.

Runner-up: Ben & Jerry’s (25 E. Broughton St., Ste. 1B)

BEST COFFEEHOUSE

Foxy Loxy Café (1919 Bull St.)

A stylish coffee shop with a Tex-Mex menu. Grab a latte in the morning and come back later for tacos and cheese dip.

Runner-up: The Sentient Bean (13 E. Park Ave.)

BEST LOCAL COFFEE ROASTER

PERC Coffee

(1802 E. Broad St.)

With a mission to “share good times and amazing coffee,” here’s where you can find the perfect cub of java.

Runner-up: Savannah Coffee Roasters (215 W. Liberty St.)

BEST SEAFOOD MARKET

Russo’s Seafood (209 E. 40th St.)

A great place to both grab some lunch and then take some extra seafood back home with you for dinner.

Runner-up: Ambos Seafoods (663 E. 33rd St.)

BEST GROCERY STORE

Kroger CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

(multiple locations)

16

We agree, Kroger’s a pretty great grocery store. And it’s everywhere, so points for consistency.

Runner-up: Publix (multiple locations)

BEST FARMER’S MARKET/FOOD CO-OP

Forsyth Farmers’ Market (13 E. Park Ave.) Thanks for voting us

BEST SOUL FOOD FOR 10 YEARS! 2605 Skidaway Road, Savannah, GA

912.335.2761 • thesistersofthenewsouth.com

You’ll find these vendors under the oak trees in Forsyth Park, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturdays.

Runner-up: Polk’s Fresh Produce Market (12419 White Bluff) CHECK ON THIS

BEST GOURMET FOOD STORE Whole Foods Market (1815 E. Victory Dr., Ste. 101)

An eco-minded chain with natural and organic grocery items, housewares and other products.

Runner-up: Brighter Day Natural Foods Market (1102 Bull St.)

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BEST MIDDLE E T RN S A E

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

Brighter Day Natural Foods Market (1102 Bull St.)

An independent, locally-owned market committed to the promotion of healthy living, service to the community and sustainability for the planet.

Runner-up: Whole Foods Market (1815 E. Victory Dr., Ste. 101)

BEST SPICE SHOP

The Salt Table (51 Barnard St.)

A Savannah-based company offering a gourmet line of salts, spice blends, sugars, teas, dip mixes and other specialty food products.

Runner-up: The Spice & Tea Exchange of Savannah (14 W. Broughton St.)

Thank You Savannah For Voting Us Best Middle Eastern Restaurant!

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Chazito’s Latin Cuisine (2224 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

Chaz Ortiz, owner of Chazito’s Latin Cuisine PHOTO BY ADRIANA IRIS BOATWRIGHT

Offering Puerto Rican food, sangria and draft beer. Don’t forget a side of yuca fries!

Runner-up: Sweet Spice Restaurant (5515 Waters Ave.)

Serving Savannah for 21 years 2311 Habersham St Hours: Mon-Sat 10:30-8:30 912-447-0400 PROUDLY SERV ING H A L A L! Falafel | Hummus | Chicken Curry | Baba Ganoughe

BEST FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Savannah Food Truck Festival (held in Daffin Park)

T H A N K YO U For voting us

BEST SOUTHSIDE RESTAURANT 531 Stephenson Avenue • 912.352.3434 S W E E T P O TAT O E S K I T C H E N . C O M

Thank you to Connect Savannah & the readers who voted us

BEST DELI BEST BAGELS BEST SANDWICH SHOP 7805 Abercorn St #18 Savannah 912.355.8717

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

More than just food, this festival is a day-long celebration of the many flavors that make Savannah the great place it is.

Runner-up: Starland Yard (2411 DeSoto Ave.)

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BEST SOUTHERN FOOD RESTAURANT

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room (107 W. Jones St.)

Who knew Sema Wilkes’ vision of a modest boardinghouse would turn into a true Southern food icon? Still serving up heaping plates of Southern favorites family-style.

Runner-up: Sweet Potatoes Kitchen (531 Stephenson Ave.)

BEST SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT

Sisters of the New South (2605 Skidaway Rd.)

Traditional Southern homestyle favorites that’ll bring you back to Grandma’s table.

You’ve got to try the oxtails and gravy.

Runner-up: Little Kings (1915 Montgomery St.)

BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT

Circa 1875

(48 Whitaker St.)

You’ll be “pret a manger” at this charming French bistro – we know it’ll be tough, but save room for dessert here (we really enjoy the crème brulee).

Runner-up: Le Café Gourmet (53 Montgomery St.)

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Ta Ca Asian Fusion & Sushi Bar (513 E. Oglethorpe Ave.)

A trendy Japanese fusion restaurant with a sushi bar and outdoor patio, plus many beer and sake choices.

Runner-up: Hirano’s (4426 Habersham St.)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT

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Hirano’s

(4426 Habersham St.)

Offering a wide selection of fresh sushi.

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

NaaN on Broughton (114 E. Broughton St.)

A contemporary restaurant serving classic and flavorful Indian fare. We’re fans of the Salmon Tikka.

Runner-up: Namaste Savannah (8 E. Broughton St.)

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BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT

Al Salaam Deli

(2311 Habersham St.)

Authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. The hummus and falafel are delicious, but those with a sweet tooth have got to try the baklava.

Runner-up: Namaste Savannah (8 E. Broughton St.)

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

Great China

(1314 W. Montgomery St.)

Those with a hankering for Chinese food can find the standard menu offerings here, from lo mein to moo goo gai pan.

Runner-up: Flock to the Wok (37 Whitaker St.)

BEST RAMEN

CO

Crowd at a previous Food Truck Festival in Daffin Park FILE PHOTO

(10 Whitaker St.)

Pan-Asian fare with a focus on classic Vietnamese dishes, and multiple menu offerings to satisfy any of your brothy ramen desires.

Runner-up: Flying Monk Noodle Bar (5 W. Broughton St.)

A Bounty of Delicious Food and Rousing Good T imes

S K N A H T

SAVANNAH!

Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Shrimp & Grits

20 E. Broad St. • 912-233-5757 • www.thepirateshouse.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

RGGHHH

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BEST PHO

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

(7054 Hodgson Memorial Dr.)

(10510 Abercorn St., Ste. D)

The Noodle Bowl

Troy Mediterranean

With soup season upon us, a hot bowl of pho (pronounced “fuh”) is just what is needed. Here, you’ll find it made with herb and bone broth, onion and rice noodles.

Runner-up: Flying Monk Noodle Bar (5 W. Broughton St.)

The traditional fare here will make you want to throw plates on the ground and shout “Opa!” (But don’t!)

Runner-up: Olympia Café (5 E. River St.)

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT

(4420 Habersham St.)

(5515 Waters Ave.)

Bella’s Italian Café

Sweet Spice Restaurant

No one does carbs better than the Italians, and Bella’s is no exception. Load up on pasta and pizza here, and save room for a cannoli at the end.

Runner-up: Corleone’s (44 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT BEST BURRITO

Jamaican comfort foods served in a colorful space. We like the beef stew, but definitely don’t forget to order a side of plantains!

Runner-up: Jamaican Soul (2002 W. 52nd St.)

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant (109 Whitaker St.)

Authentic Mexican fare with an upbeat dining experience. Along with your burrito, ask for the tableside guacamole to have your avocados prepared exactly how you want.

Runner-up for both categories: Jalapenos Mexican Grill (7 E. Broughton St.)

BEST TACO

PJ Thai

(147 Abercorn St.)

An extensive menu featuring large portions of authentic Thai cuisine. The Thai Basil Rolls are *chef’s kiss.* Runner-up: Chiriya’s Thai Cuisine (3017 E. Victory Dr.)

BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

Flying Monk Noodle Bar

Bull Street Taco

(5 W. Broughton St.)

(1608 Bull St.)

They serve their multiple taco selections on organic homemade tortillas from local tortilleria Mitla – we love the Baja Fish.

Runner-up: La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant (Oglethorpe Mall location)

Perfectly prepared, freshly cut noodles from various Asian nations, including Vietnam.

Runner-up: Splendid Shabu (9 Mill Creek Circle B.)

2019

BEST OF SAVANNAH

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

• 2014 •

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ING CCEPT NOW A CARDS! CREDIT E ONLIN ORDER ICKUP! FOR P

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Thank you for voting us Best Breakfast Savannah

28 Drayton St. 912.232.6628

BEST FINE DINING

Pooler

208 Grand Central Blvd.

912.988.3365

The Grey PHOTO BY GEOFF L JOHNSON

Elizabeth on 37th

Thanks For Voting Us SAVANNAH

(105 E. 37th St.)

Elegant fare featuring coastal cuisine and seasonal produce with a cozy atmosphere and impeccable hospitality. The authentic Victorian mansion setting means you can spend your entire evening pretending to be a cast member of “Downton Abbey.”

Runner-up: The Grey (109 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

BEST POOLER BAR & BEST BEER ON TAP SELECTION

BEST DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT

The Grey

Featuring 500 Beers From Around The World!!

(109 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

238 Pooler Parkway | 912.348.3079

Modern Southern eats in a refurbished bus depot, with award-winning Chef Mashama Bailey designing seasonal menus using the freshest ingredients.

Runner-up: The Vault Kitchen & Market (2112 Bull St.)

BEST SOUTHSIDE RESTAURANT

Sweet Potatoes Kitchen (531 Stephenson Ave.)

Fresh soul food with “down home flavor,” as described by its website. Multiple online reviews recommend the banana pudding.

Runner-up: Tangerine Fusion & Sushi Bar (11215 Abercorn St., Ste. 10)

.

SAVANNAH OTING

HEY V ANKS FOR TH

The Corner Grill (111 Jazie Dr., Ste. A)

A great place for fresh, homemade burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. Try the Greek fries!

Runner-up: Basils Pizza & Deli (216 Johnny Mercer Blvd.)

BEST RICHMOND HILL RESTAURANT

Himalayan Curry Kitchen (10074 Ford Ave.)

Spiced-to-order Indian and Nepali specialty dining. Online reviews rave that the food is “delicious and fresh,” with “super friendly” service.

Runner-up: The Local on 17 (4040 US-17)

BEST POOLER RESTAURANT

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen (1425 Benton Blvd.)

A family-friendly chain serving American comfort food with a Texas twist.

Runner-up: Chazito’s Latin Cuisine (217 US-80)

BEST TAKEOUT FOOD S H * T

ORDER ONLINE @

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BEST WILMINGTON/WHITEMARSH/TALAHI ISLAND RESTAURANT

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#BOS2020 NIGHTLIFE & DRINK

BEST BRUNCH

BEST PUB FOOD

BEST BLOODY MARY

The Ordinary Pub

PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

AFTER FIVE years in the Savannah culinary scene, The Ordinary Pub is the “best” in multiple categories – Best Brunch, Best Pub Food and – a true jewel in the crown for a city that has multiple drink options – Best Bloody Mary.

The owners, husband-and-wife team Mike and Bee Vaudrin, opened their restaurant after more than a decade of working for other area restaurants and eventually deciding it was time to open their own place.

“We found a closed basement taco joint that no one wanted,” Mike explained. “We spent months refurbishing and building the food and cocktail menus, and opened The Ordinary Pub in June 2015.”

The building itself is the old basement of Savannah’s original Sears & Roebuck building, right on West Broughton Street – patrons should look for the doors leading down to the single door entrance at 217 ½.

Mike, who had spent nearly a decade as the cook, bartender and general manager of The Warehouse Bar and Grille on River Street, was joined by Bee in this new venture.

She handles events, human resources and décor.

“And she puts up with me!” Mike said. “We do this thing together. She is the most amazing partner.”

The goal all along was bringing classic pub dishes with a “culinary twist,” Mike said.

“I wanted an approachable fare … the very first dish we developed in our kitchen at home was the f.g.t. Caprese salad. I’m a big Caprese fan, and the South loves fried green tomatoes. It just seemed they were meant to be together.”

Pub food seems to lend itself to brunch, so it makes sense The Ordinary Pub won 22 in both categories – while nearly everyone knows that the word itself is a mash-up of

breakfast and lunch, the dining experience has turned into the first meal after a night of, shall we say, extravagant drinking. Along with some “hair of the dog” to take the edge off, diners usually end up wanting something hearty and not necessarily the most nutritious option.

The Ordinary Pub answers the call with menu items like the chorizo brunch skillet – which includes potato hash, chorizo and a three-cheese egg scramble. Or, you can try the mimosa poached shrimp tacos, a nod to the popular brunch drink. There’s even the millennial favorite, avocado toast featuring the savory green fruit alongside fresh salsa, greens and feta cheese.

But according to Mike, there’s one menu item that reigns supreme over all.

“The most popular has to be our pork belly donut slides,” he said, giving some hints as to how the home cook may attempt to recreate this iconic dish in their own kitchen. “It’s pork belly slow braised in Dr. Pepper and bourbon with a housemade bacon onion jam on a donut slider, made by Baker’s Pride (a local bakery over on E. DeRenne Ave.).”

It’s definitely true – the menu item is one of the most mentioned across the Internet.

One online review states “the donut pork belly sliders were some of the best bites I’ve had in the history of me eating and tasting things.”

The pork belly donut slides also have a spot on The Ordinary Pub’s dinner menu, alongside items like the duck confit tacos, southern fried bison and a low country mac and cheese which tosses together gouda, cheddar and mozzarella alongside shrimp and Andouille sausage.

Their brunch and dinner menus have accompany cocktail menus (and various wines and beers on tap, as well as 96-ounce “big ass mules”). You can find your traditional

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MUSIC

IN THE SOUNDGARDEN ALL SHOWS START AT 7PM

THANK YOU SAVANNAH FOR VOTING US

BEST SPORTS BAR THU OCT 22

daquiris, mimosas and margaritas here, as well as something other more unique beverages – “The Office” fans will enjoy knowing there’s a Pam Beasley & Jim (PB&J) cocktail, featuring peanut butter fat washed vodka, a grape house cordial and banana liqueur.

Connect Savannah Best Of voters say it’s all about their Bloody Marys, though. And to take tops in that category, Mike says it’s all about the ingredients.

“It all starts with a fresh tomato,” he said. “Our chefs make each Bloody Mary sauce from scratch. Our vodkas are all house-infused by our bartenders. There are no secret ingredients, no tricks. It’s just fresh ingredients, time and effort.

“If you walk into our prep kitchen at any time, you’re almost definitely going to see someone weaving bacon and making Bloody Mary mix.”

Speaking of bacon, there’s a Bacon Bloody Mary on the menu featuring candied bacon and a bacon salt rim. You can change things up with a Spicy Bloody Tommy which uses green tomatillos and a pepper-infused vodka for a real kick. The Mezcal Bloody Mary tops everything off with some Miller High Life and cilantro.

“My favorite, hands down, is the Pickled Bloody,” Mark said. “It’s made with housemade pickling juice.” It also includes that pepper-infused vodka, some hot sauce and a pickle.

It’s no big secret that 2020 has been a rough year for many industries, particularly restaurants. After originally quarantining during the COVID-19 pandemic but before The Ordinary Pub was able to reopen as a restaurant, the Vaudrins and their chefs set up “The Ordinary Butcher Shop” at their sister restaurant, The Common Public House, and started butchering meats.

“We were butchering meats, selling toilet paper, eggs, anything people wanted,” Mike said. “It was an awesome day when we were able to reopen as a restaurant. But the lessons learned in the ‘butcher shop’ era were irreplaceable. We’re a better, more grateful group.

“Every day you wake up with an opportunity to work on your craft and strive to impress the guests is a good one,” he added.

It’s a rare day off for restaurant owners, but when there is some down time Mike and Bee will go thrift shopping to find “weird little things” for their restaurants. They also enjoy Mexican food and grabbing some margaritas in the afternoons before the big dinner rush.

“I wish I had a cooler answer, but that’s a pretty big day off when we get one!” Mike said.

The Ordinary Pub is at 217 ½ W. Broughton St. and is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays.

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bar food • hey•girl•hey

We know its hard to have a Happy Hour right now but Johnny would want us to!

Come on in and grab a drink and a bite to eat and remember the good times you had with Johnny.

He wouldn’t have it any other way.

3-7 • 10-12 savannahbarfood.com 4523 Habersham St. | 912.355.5956

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BEST PUB CRAWL

Harry Potter Pub Crawl (now the Wizard Pub Crawl)

Savannah’s most magical pubs host this award-winning crawl, with themed specials and the opportunity to dress up as your favorite fictional wizard.

Runner-up: The Crawl of the South

BEST BARTENDER

Anita Narcisse

Runner-up: Amanda Barnes

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC

Savannah Smiles Dueling Pianos (314 Williamson St.)

A dueling-piano saloon with rockin’ music played by engaging entertainers. A wide selection of drinks helps to keep the party going into the early morning hours.

BEST STARLAND DISTRICT BAR The Wormhole (2307 Bull St.)

A casual spot bringing together all kinds of people with live concerts, comedy shows and trivia nights.

Runner-up: Water Witch Tiki Bar (2220 Bull St.)

BEST SOUTHSIDE BAR

Tailgate Sports Bar & Grill (11215 Abercorn St., Ste. 2)

A sports-centric neighborhood hub with bar food, ample beer, pool, darts and theme nights.

BEST WILMINGTON/WHITEMARSH/ TALAHI ISLAND BAR

Ellie’s Crow Bar Lounge

(205 Johnny Mercer Blvd., Ste. B) A local watering hole with good food and friendly bartenders.

Runner-up: Molly McGuire’s (216 Johnny Mercer Blvd., Ste. 1)

BEST RIVER STREET BAR

Rocks on the River (102 W. Bay St.)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

This rooftop bar located on top of The Bohemian offers amazing views of the Savannah River.

Runner-up: Wet Willie’s (101 E. River St.)

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BEST CITY MARKET BAR

The Bar Bar

(219 West St., Julian St.) A spacious basement bar with plenty of board games and a fully-stocked bar.

Runner-up: Wet Willie’s (20 Jefferson St.)

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VOTED BEST LIVE MUSIC IN SAVANNAH!!

ALL REQUEST DUELING PIANO SHOW 21+ • FULL BAR • LATE NIGHT FOOD

“Over 20 Years and More Than Two Million SmileS!” PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

Congress Street Social Club KNOWN FOR its live music and extensive bourbon selection, Congress Street Social Club has continued to be one of Savannah’s top picks for good drinks, good vibes and some very popular menu items.

“We have these burgers and they’re like ‘drunk people magnets,’” General Manager Gregg Dietrich said, laughing. “They are really, really good. It’s like watching flies come to the light when they’re on the grill.”

Along with the typical restaurant and bar features, Congress Street Social Club has the unique feature of a large outdoor patio – and in a year when many people are looking for lots of space and fresh air, the establishment has really leaned into promoting this asset .

The restaurant had actually been in the process of revamping the outdoor grill area which was finished about a week or two before St. Patrick’s Day this year, Dietrich said – which coincidentally lined up with the COVID-19 pandemic and various lockdowns across the country, including Savannah. When they were able to open back up, the large outdoor space with its revamped grill became just the ticket to bring people in and keep everyone drunk, fed and happy.

“The patio is where it’s at,” Dietrich said. “We were able to just pivot our focus from our inside restaurant and bar – the outdoor dining was almost like an afterthought for a while, but now it’s obviously where most of our business is.”

The restaurant hasn’t entirely re-opened to its full menu; the inside kitchen does remain closed and staff keeps the interior space at a lower capacity through the night.

But diners can still find those delicious cheeseburgers, as well as all-beef hotdogs, smoked pork and sausages, and even a new addition of smoked tofu.

(It should be noted online reviews also rave about the Frito Pie!) They’ve also maintained that wide bourbon selection which has been the main draw of their business since the doors opened in 2011. Even the pickiest bourbon connoisseur can surely find something enjoyable among the 200ish options.

“We’ve got several hand-picked single barrels to offer,” Dietrich explained. “And we’ve got some cocktails, a lot of craft beer.”

It’s also usually the spot to hear some great live music, though it’s been a bit quieter than preferred in 2020.

“It’s something we’d love to get back towards doing,” Dietrich said about the live performances. “But the outdoor space is just great. It’s open to dogs, so people who are out just enjoying the evening can come on in, grab a drink, a burger and sit and relax with some friends.”

He attributes all of the restaurant’s success to the patrons – being in Savannah, they do see a fair share of tourists, but over the years Congress Street Social Club has become a real watering hole for locals.

“I think being here for our local audience is a huge piece of our success,” he said. “This past year, it’s been interesting and encouraging to see how everyone has reacted. It’s encouraging to know that these are the people we’re working with.

“We’ve got some great owners, a great staff and a great environment.”

Congress Street Social Club is at 411 W. Congress St. It’s open 3 p.m.-3 a.m. Mondays through Fridays; noon-3 a.m. Saturdays; and 12:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Sundays.

Runner-up for Best College Bar: Huc-A-Poos Bites & Booze (1213 US-80) Runner-up for Best Outdoor Bar: Moon River Brewing Company (21 W. Bay St.)

314 WILLIAMSON ST • SAVANNAH 912.527.6453 • 7PM -3AM THUR.-SAT.

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BEST DOWNTOWN BAR BEST COLLEGE BAR BEST OUTDOOR BAR

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BEST TYBEE ISLAND BAR

Huc-A-Poos Bites & Booze (1213 US-80)

An unfussy roadhouse offering mixed drinks, beer and specialty pizzas. Online reviews continually raved about the great atmosphere.

Runner-up: Doc’s Bar (10 Tybrisa St.)

BEST POOLER BAR BEST BEER ON TAP SELECTION (238 Pooler Pkwy.)

Offering 500+ global beers and craft drafts. Pair your beer with one of their giant pretzels.

Runner-up for Best Pooler Bar: Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill (110 Towne Center Dr.) Runner-up for Best Beer on Tap Selection: The Distillery

The cocktails and menu here make this a great stop to kick off your evening plans. Try a Champagne Pop if you need to cool off, featuring a King of Pops popsicle.

BEST BLOODY MARY

The Ordinary Pub

(217 1/2 W. Broughton St.)

BEST DIVE BAR BEST BAR TO SPOT A CELEBRITY

You have a few different options here at this place, but we’ve gotta go with the Bacon Bloody Mary, featuring candied bacon and a bacon salt rim.

Runner-up: The Collins Quarter (151 Bull St.)

(318 Drayton St.)

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK

Good drinks with entertaining bartenders brings people back time and again ... including celebrities who are in town and looking for a chill place to relax. Be cool and don’t ruin it for the rest of us!

Runner-up for Best Dive Bar: The Rail Pub (405 W. Congress St., #2410)

(4 W. Broughton St.)

The Original Pinkie Masters

BEST UPSCALE BAR

22 Square Restaurant & Bar

Chive Sea Bar & Lounge They have a great beer and wine list … but yeah, definitely try one of their signature cocktails. We’re partial to the Red Clover signature cocktail, featuring fresh strawberries and honey.

Runner-up: Jen’s & Friends (34 Bull St.)

(14 Barnard St.)

BEST MARGARITA

Inside the Andaz Hotel, this eatery and full-service bar celebrates “the art of the cocktail” – head on in and try one of the hand-crafted drinks.

Runner-up: The Grove (301 W. Congress St.)

(109 Whitaker St.)

Thank YOU CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

With a sophisticated vibe, you’d be forgiven if you thought you were in the Hamptons instead of Savannah.

Runner-up to Best Rooftop Bar: The Alida (412 Williamson St.) Runner-up to Best Hotel Bar: Rocks on the River (102 W. Bay St.)

BEST HAPPY HOUR The Grove (301 W. Congress St.)

World of Beer

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BEST ROOFTOP BAR BEST HOTEL BAR Peregrin (256 E. Perry St.)

for voting us Best British Pub

Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant Few things make us happier than drippy queso and a pitcher of margaritas. For a kick, try their Jalapeno Margarita, with freshly diced peppers.

Runner-up: Lizzy’s Tequila Bar & Grill (417 E. River St.)

Voted Best Cupcakes!

Thanks Savannah!

Fabulous Food | Rooftop Bar | Live Music 13 w. Bay St | (912) 232-8501 | churchillsonbay.com

Over 100 Flavor Varieties!

5521 Abercorn St

912.349.2778

NIGHTLIFE & DRINK

SINCE 2001 – BREWING COFFEE & COMMUNITY

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THE SENTIENT BEAN

Award-Winning Organic Vegetarian Food + Fair-Trade Coffees & Teas

MON - SUN OPEN 7AM–5PM

BEST NEW BAR BEST OVERALL BAR

STARTING a new business is always both an exciting and challenging endeavor, and it was no different for Water Witch Tiki Bar when it opened its doors in January of this year.

And then, almost as suddenly as those doors opened, they were forced to close beginning in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been an extremely long process to get us up and going,” said Brigitte Harley, who owns the space with her husband, Les. “We reopened June 8, so we’ve been trying to push through this ever since that time. And we’re still at it!”

Harley originally moved to Savannah in 2010 after having vacationed in the area and really enjoying the geography and all there is to do. And having a career in law and finance, she has the experience and knowledge needed to run a business, in fact serving as CFO for a local restaurant group prior to this current endeavor.

She says the restaurant industry is unlike any other.

“We sort of had to figure out how to make our niche in Savannah where it’s such an amazing neighborhood that has so many cool things going on and coming soon,” she said about the tiki bar’s location in the Starland District. “I think some people still aren’t aware of all the great things going on in our neighborhood, so it’s our goal to not only increase tourist traffic but also to increase our visibility to the locals, as well.”

The bar gets its name from the USS Water Witch, a Union ship burned off of Savannah’s coast in 1864 after it had been captured by the Confederate Navy earlier that summer. However, apparently sailors had for years been wary of the ship that allegedly met multiple misfortunes during its time asea.

Harley and her team blend together that local history and Savannah’s ties to the ocean and waters with the bright, airy qualities of more tropical locales that are typically associated with tiki. Some might think of Hawaii and its bright flowers, as well as wooden totem poles and bright, fruity drinks with umbrellas sticking out. The style has also become familiar to many as it’s been embraced at various times through the years by artists from interior designers to jewelers. Others may be familiar with “The Enchanted Tiki Room” at various Disney parks, with its animatronic musical performance of “The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room.”

A 21 and up establishment, the Water Witch Tiki Bar is far from Disney, though you may find yourself singing like an animatronic bird after trying out a few of their signature drinks. The most popular one is the USS Water Witch (of course!), which includes rum, whiskey, citrus and ginger beer.

13 E. Park Ave •232.4447

full listings @ sentientbean.com PHOTOS BY ALEX NEUMANN

“It’s just a nice, refreshing cocktail,” Harley said. “And we use the witch mugs to serve that one.”

Another popular drink is the Ring of Fire – which is literally lit on fire – and includes gin, lime, mint syrup and bitters.

Harley is excited about their upcoming menu they plan to unveil by the end of October, featuring new cocktails created by Savannah-based master mixologist Sidney Lance. One of the new drinks is called the Witches Stash, which sounds like it has quite the kick.

“It has jalapeno in it, and gin and some citrus. It’s so tasty, and tastes so fresh,” Harley said, noting its “herbaceous” flavor. “Sidney is so well-known around town, and he’s come in and helped us on some of the more modern, non-tiki cocktails for the menu, too.”

They’ll also be unveiling a slightly modified, updated food menu alongside their new drinks. “Our food has always been really good, and I’m just excited what our new chef is going to bring to the table,” Harley said.

Harley does want customers to know that the experienced bartenders are able to throw pretty much any drink together – there’s no need to stick to the menu or to only expect tropical-inspired drinks when entering the tiki bar.

“Any drinks you want, whether it’s an off-menu cocktail or even something like a gin and tonic,” she said. “Our bartenders are amazing and have a lot of experience under their belts. They’ve been doing this for a long time, and they’re really creative. So come in and check us out.”

Winning in the Best New Bar and Best Overall Bar categories is validation for Harley after a difficult year where they initially opened on target to hit all of their projected numbers, and then not even two months later had to close for a period of time. She does have optimism for the future, not just for Water Witch but for the entire Savannah area and Starland District in particular.

“I’m of the view that the more great businesses we have, the better off it is for everyone,” she said. “I think it only brings more people to this area. I just think this whole area is going to be booming once we recover.”

Water Witch Tiki Bar is located at 2220 Bull Street. It’s open 5 p.m. to midnight, Mondays through Thursdays; and 5 p.m.-2 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays.

Runner-up for Best New Bar: Lizzy’s Tequila Bar & Grill (417 E. River St.)

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Water Witch Tiki Bar

COUNTER SERVICE AND TAKEOUT

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BEST MARTINI

Lulu’s Chocolate Bar

(42 Martin Luther King Blvd.)

The Lulutini features chocolate vodka, chocolate liqeur, crème de cacao and sipping chocolate. Or, if you’re on a health kick, try their White Chocolate Pomegranate Martini.

Runner-up: Jen’s & Friends (34 Bull St.)

BEST SOMMELIER

Jason Restivo Runner-up: Gary Butch

BEST BAR/RESTAURANT WINE SELECTION

The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market (254 E. Perry St.)

An extensive wine selection can satisfy all of your Chardonnay dreams.

BEST LOCAL WINE SHOP BEST RETAIL BEER SELECTION

Habersham Beverage Warehouse (7927 Abercorn St.) PHOTO BY GEOFF L JOHNSON

BEST BURLESQUE DANCER BEST BARTENDER

Rita D’LaVane

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

ONSTAGE or off, Rita D’LaVane knows how to command a room.

As founder and producer of the Savannah Sweet Tease Burlesque Revue, Rita’s been on many of the city’s stages, performing shows for a packed house of adoring fans—or, lately, to a camera.

But you’d never know, just from looking at them, that they suffer from stage anxiety.

“A lot of people don’t know that,” they say.

In fact, Rita originally was interested more in producing than performing. After their first dance in 2004, Rita learned the ropes of the burly business from Jean Thompson, who ran Lucky Doll. Then Rita began the Sweet Tease in 2013, where they preferred to be behind the scenes.

“A lot of that had to do with the fact that I wasn’t confident with my shape yet,” they confide. “I wasn’t comfortable being on stage. When you’re in front of a bunch of people like that, and under lights? That can be really unnerving. But I just told myself, ‘My shape also needs representation.’”

Representation, in fact, is something Rita has been passionate about from day one.

“I pass as a white person, but I have the understanding and experience of what it’s like to be a person of color because I was raised around my culture,” they explain, “so I also use that as a way to make sure there’s representation of black and brown bodies on stage as well.”

Through their success, Rita is able to empower other burlesque dancers, particularly those who haven’t always been represented on stage. And Rita has certainly had success over their career of nearly two decades. Among other accolades, Rita counts a proud moment as being crowned the Duchess of Funk at the What the Funk?! An All POC Burlesque Fest.

“It’s not that I want to snatch up all the titles I possibly can,” explains Rita. “It’s elevating my own platform as a performer, as well as what I’m like as a person. Using that to open more doors for other people is what made me make the decision to compete.”

In just seven years, the Savannah Sweet Tease Burlesque Revue has grown to be a powerhouse of a burlesque troupe. They’ve swept four categories in this year’s contest, with Rita bringing home two of their own.

Ultimately, one of the biggest things Rita did was to believe in their own power and talent.

“Believing in yourself is a good percentage of the work,” they say. “If you don’t believe 28 in what you’re doing, then how is it you’re going to follow through with anything?”

“If they don’t have it, they can probably get it” an online review states about this location’s wide selection.

Runner-up for Best Local Wine Shop: Le Chai (15 E. Park Ave.) Runner-up for Best Retail Beer Selection: White Whale Craft Ales (1207 Bull St.)

BEST BRITISH PUB Churchill’s (13 W. Bay St.)

A British-run tavern serving English draft beers, plus your traditional “pub grub.”

Runner-up: Six Pence Pub (245 Bull St.)

BEST IRISH PUB

O’Connell’s Irish Pub (42 Drayton St.)

A warm local pub pouring a selection of Irish beers and spirits.

Runner-up: McDonough’s Restaurant & Lounge (21 E. McDonough St.)

BEST SCOTTISH PUB

Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill (110 Towne Center Dr.)

An old-school pub with an extensive selection of single-malt scotch, beers and traditional Scottish eats.

Runner-up: Molly McGuire’s (216 Johnny Mercer Blvd. #1)

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

Two Tides Brewing Company (12 W. 41st St.)

Specializing in small-batch craft beers with fun names and better flavors. Also, check out their pinball machines.

Runner-up: Southbound Brewing Company (107 E. Lathrop Ave.)

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BEST LOCAL SPIRITS DISTILLER Ghost Coast Distillery (641 Indian St.) Small batch spirits are found here, Savannah’s first distillery since just before prohibition. We’re fans of Hank and Holly, the distillery doggos.

Runner-up: Daufuskie Island Rum Company (270 Haig Point Rd., SC)

BEST LOCAL OPEN MIC

The Sentient Bean (13 E. Park Ave.)

Musicians, poets and comedians can come work out their new material at this coffee shop.

Runner-up: McDonough’s Restaurant & Lounge (21 E. McDonough St.)

BEST DANCE CLUB BEST GAY BAR/CLUB Club One (1 Jefferson St.) A boisterous, multi-level night club known for its drag shows and basement video bar – the original home of Lady Chablis.

Runner-up for Best Dance Club: Elan (301 Williamson St.)

BEST SPORTS BAR

Coach’s Corner (3016 E. Victory Dr.)

A great atmosphere with an outside beer garden and plenty of TVs to watch your game du jour.

Runner-up: Dub’s Pub (225 W. River St.)

BEST ADULT ENTERTAINMENT

Emperors Gentlemens Club Savannah (12 N. Lathrop Ave.)

Originally known as SCORES, multiple online reviews say the girls are hot and the food is good.

McDonough’s Restaurant & Lounge (21 E. McDonough St.)

If you work hard to get where you are, it feels good in the hot spotlight … this place can make you a big star.

Runner-up: The Rail Pub (405 W. Congress St.)

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT

Mellow Mushroom (11 W. Liberty St.)

Put on your thinkin’ caps and stretchy pants to enjoy a night of pizza, beer and trivia.

Runner-up: World of Beer (238 Pooler Pkwy.)

Best Margarita Best Mexican Restaurant Best Burrito

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST KARAOKE

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#BOS2020 MUSIC & CULTURE

&Culture

MUSIC

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

José Ray

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

“I FEEL bad saying it, but it’s actually been a pretty good year for me,” laughs José Ray. Odd to have one’s best year in 2020, yes, but Ray’s win for Best Visual Artist comes on the upswing of a decidedly positive year for the artist, who’s had solo exhibitions at Sulfur Studios and the Mansion on Forsyth.

Artist, by the way, is never too vague a term to describe Ray: at once a painter, illustrator, DJ, and whatever else, he’s a true creator through and through.

But it’s taken Ray a while to get to this point.

“All through my 20s and early 30s, I was nose to the grindstone, trying to make ends meet, trying to figure out what I was going to do with myself,” he remembers. “Now I’m getting that balance figured out.”

Balance is very important for this Gemini; he’s interested in finding and maintaining balance, especially as we approach a contentious political season. “I think we all need to chill out a little bit,” he confides.

Ray’s work has always been eye-poppingly bright, particularly his latest floral work. He’s taken the time during quarantine to explore other ideas, such as pouring resin over his pieces and working in a darker color palette.

For devoted fans, the moodier pieces may be a jolt, but he’s always been interested in that look.

“I can’t say I’ve ever been a goth kid, but I’ve identified with Dracula and Frankenstein—I love that whole culture,” he raves. “I love walking around the woods or in graveyards—not in a creepy way! It’s a very peaceful and grounding environment and setting to be in.”

Indeed, Ray has gone more into nature lately, kayaking around Savannah’s waterways and taking some time away. After a lifetime of learning balance, he’s putting it into practice.

“I’m always busy,” he admits, “but now I’m finetuning my busyness and putting it all together.”

Runner-up: Panhandle Slim

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PHOTO BY GEOFF L JOHNSON

MUSIC & CULTURE

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BEST CULTURAL EVENT BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL OF 2019

Savannah Music Festival

Last year’s Savannah Music Festival featured greats Pat Metheny and Jeff Tweedy, among other festival staples.

Runner-up, Cultural Event: St. Patrick’s Day Festival Runner-up, Local Festival: Savannah Stopover

BEST FILM FESTIVAL

SCAD Savannah Film Festival

BEST INDIE FILM VENUE

Lucas Theatre for the Arts

Recently purchased by SCAD, the Lucas is an iconic venue that screens films as well as concerts and theater productions.

Runner-up: Sentient Bean

FILE PHOTO

BEST LOCAL JAZZ BAND/ARTIST

Velvet Caravan THERE’S A reason these guys sell out every show they do—they’re probably the single most uniquely phenomenal band we have in town. They feel the love they get from this town right back, of course.

“We want to thank our entire Savannah community and fans and the great staff at Connect for this awesome Best Local Jazz Band in Savannah award,” keyboardist Jared Hall tells Connect.

“There are so many great musicians in our community that deserve this as well and we want to continue to support them. We also ask everyone to support our local restaurants, music venues, taverns, arts organizations and each other! Cheers and thank you Savannah!”

Wood sign workshops to guide your inner DIY! (912) 675 - 4170

boardandbrush.com/savannah

SAV PHIL

PRESENTS

Atlanta Celli

featuring Roger Moss October 29 7:30pm Join us for a unique concert experience hosted by Maestro Keitaro Harada In-person tickets and Livestreaming options available SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC

Visit savannahphilharmonic.org for details and tickets Livestreaming is made possible

by Nancy & Ken Larsen

Presenting Sponsor

Michael & Catherine Thames

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

A beloved fall tradition, last year’s SCAD Savannah Film Festival featured a full roster of amazing films and closed out with a screening of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.

Runner-up: Graveface Film Fest

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Thank you, Savannah!

#BOS2020 MUSIC & CULTURE

Savannah Philharmonic would like to thank you, the Savannah Community, for watching the Picnic in the Park 2020 Broadcast. We’re pleased we could join you in your home and invite you to join us for future concerts.

Thank you to our sponsors for their support in making Picnic in the Park 2020 possible.

Live. Local. Now.

PHOTO BY GEOFF L JOHNSON

BEST LOCAL DRAG QUEEN

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Blair Williams

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SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC KEITARO HARADA Music & Artistic Director

savannahphilharmonic.org

BLAIR WILLIAMS has been performing in drag for over 30 years and has won Miss Gay America, but she’s proudest of the times she gets to connect with her audience.

“When you have an experience where you come off stage and know that you did the best you could do, and someone out there related to what you did,” she raves. “There’s always someone that appreciates that, and when they come and say, ‘I love your performance, that spoke to me,’ it means the world to me.”

As a kid, Blair loved music and dancing, but wasn’t always comfortable on stage.

“I was very shy; I was a heavy kid, very insecure in my body,” she recalls. “Before I had terminology for being gay, I knew that I was different somehow.”

But after seeing her first drag show at the age of 18, Blair was hooked, though she notes it took her years to gain the confidence to get on stage.

Now, she’s a regular performer at Club One and uses her platform to speak out.

“I think sometimes drag is political. Sometimes it’s a social message, and sometimes it’s just a fun escape,” she says. “Our times are crazy right now, so sometimes people want that escape. We try to cater to everyone—we try not to be offensive, but we also try not to censor ourselves where we can’t express our own viewpoints.”

Even through the pandemic, Club One attracts a wide range of visitors, and not everyone is keen on the politicization of drag. Blair notes that sometimes, audience members may be slightly offended by a performer’s message.

“And we’re slightly sorry that you didn’t get what we were doing,” she says with a sugary-sweet smile.

Regardless, drag is inclusive, and Blair wants everyone to come see the show.

“This is kind of a dying breed,” she says of drag shows. “Drag is so readily available; you can sit at home Friday night and turn on VH1 and watch [RuPaul’s] Drag Race. I don’t think that gives you a real taste of seeing it live.”

Runner-up: Treylor Trash

MUSIC & CULTURE

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BEST LOCAL THEATRE PRODUCTION

Violet

BEST LOCAL THEATRE DIRECTOR

Jayme Tinti

BEST LOCAL ACTRESS

McKenna Lyons

Savannah Stage Company had a banner year in 2019, including their production of Violet, a production of a young woman’s journey to fix a facial scar. McKenna Lyons starred in the role, and Jayme Tinti directed.

Runner-up, Theatre Production: MacBeth Runner-up, Director: Travis Spangenburg Runner-up, Actress: Casey Bessette

BEST LOCAL ACTOR

Trey Norris

Thanks for your Support Savannah!

A general manager at Club One, Trey Norris shines on stage while helping others do so as well.

Runner-up: Christopher Soucy

BEST LOCAL AUTHOR

Jessica Leigh Lebos BEST NEW LOCAL BOOK

Savannah Sideways

Based on her long-standing Civil Society column in this paper, Jessica Leigh Lebos’ “Savannah Sideways” is an excellent primer to learning the ins and outs of Savannah.

Runner-up, Author: Jane Fishman Runner-up, Book: Disassembly Required

BEST MUSEUM

Jepson Center for the Arts

The Jepson Center continues to being in exciting exhibitions that provoke thought and inspire awe, from major traveling shows to displays of local artists’ work.

Runner-up: Graveface Museum

BEST ART GALLERY

Sulfur Studios

Sulfur leads the charge in promoting local art. With several satellite galleries in which to show local work, Sulfur remains committed to the cause of giving local artists a platform to show their work.

Runner-up: SCAD Art Museum

BEST ART SHOW OF 2019 Each year, SCAD brings the best in contemporary art to Savannah. 2019’s honoree was Lawrence Weiner, a trailblazing conceptual artist.

Runner-up: Savannah Art Walk

BEST MUSEUM Jepson Center

BEST LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Adriana Iris Boatwright

Whether she’s creating an editorial shoot or capturing a moment, Adriana has a knack for taking striking, recognizable photographs.

Runner-up: Megan Jones

telfair.org | savannah’s historic district

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

SCAD deFINE Art

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#BOS2020 MUSIC & CULTURE

BEST SINGER/ SONGWRITER

BEST ALLAROUND MUSICIAN

AJ Jeanty

FILE PHOTO

AJ JEANTY is a great singer and songwriter, known for his work in the band Drive TFC. He says he’s currently hard at work recording remotely with his group, including among other things a full-length album’s worth of songs.

“I have had a blast getting to know many musicians around Savannah, and I am honored even to have been considered for this award,” he tells Connect of his dual wins.

In addition to working in his band, Jeanty also focuses on teaching

music—something he’s very passionate about.

“Musically speaking, I have been teaching a good amount recently; since I began teaching guitar and piano lessons a couple years ago (LifeMuse Guitar Lessons), it has really made me reflect on what makes a striking composition or arrangement. My students challenge me and help me to expand my comfort zones and how I think about music,” he says.

BEST FASHION EVENT

Junk 2 Funk

Junk 2 Funk is a fashion show put on by students at Savannah Arts Academy.

Revolving around a theme, the creations are unique and impressive, and the show always sells out.

Runner-up: Sundress and Big Hat Brunch

BEST LOCAL CONCERT

BEST LOCAL COMEDIAN/COMEDY TEAM

THE TENTH anniversary of the Savannah Stopover Music Festival took the Best Local Concert category after a smashing line-up over the second weekend of March (as it is every year!).

Savannah’s location makes it the perfect site for traveling musicians to play while on their way to the Austin, Texas SXSW Music Conference – earning the Stopover Music Festival the moniker of “SXSW’s grungy little sister.” The extensive line-up and intimate settings aim to not just connect fans with their favorite bands, but to also find new favorites.

The 2020 weekend featured acts like Shovels & Rope, Motherfolk, The Districts and Tall Tall Trees. Local acts like Clouds & Satellites, Donna Savage, Dustin Price, Early Branch, McLeod, Bero Bero, Damon and the Shitkickers and Reverend Bro Diddley and the Hips also made appearances.

Along with the musical acts themselves, the background of the historic city also takes a starring role. Shows are hosted at venues across the city including Service Brewing Co., The Jinx, El Rocko Lounge, Congress Street Social Club, Club One, Trinity United Methodist Church and The Wayward Bar (Perry Lane Hotel). Connect Savannah’s stage was at the Ships of the Sea Museum.

Passes are affordable (with one-day, three-day and VIP pass options) and all venues are within an easy walk from each other.

More information can be found at savannahstopover.com.

Odd Lot Improv

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Yes, and? Odd Lot Improv delivers quality improv shows that are sure to make every audience member laugh a little, or a lot.

Runner-up: Front Porch Improv

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Shovels & Rope were from Savannah Stopover 2020

BEST LOCAL VOCALIST

Lexi Balaoing

Lexi Balaoing is a great example of the wonderful talent that Savannah has in its midst. She’s truly an amazing singer, and you can catch her all around performing in various productions.

BEST LOCAL COUNTRY BAND/ARTIST

Damon & the Shitkickers

Damon Maitland and his cohorts are a great example of country music done right.

The band has consistently won over audiences for their devotion to the traditions of the genre, and deservedly so.

Savannah Stopover

s l i a t k c o C i k i T c i s s a l C ! y a Exotic & d y r e v e e h t m o r f esacpe CATED

OP

. LO NDAY AT 5PM U S TO Y A D ES EN WEDN

6 CHARLIE’S, 11 ABOVE SORRY

W CONGRESS

ST.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

! s k n i r d d e x i m e s u o H e c i r p 2 / 1 : s y a d s e Wedn

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#BOS2020 MUSIC & CULTURE

BEST LOCAL HIP-HOP/RAP ARTIST

Soco The Khan

THE GREAT Soco the Khan is an incredible artist and writer, as evidenced by his several releases in recent years. Though these days, he’s focusing his energy elsewhere while eyeing an eventual return to music.

“Shout out to my daughter Rocket and her mother Charlene. I’m taking time now to step back from music and focus on being a better man and father so I can eventually contribute something more to my city. Rap is cool and all, but I wanna do more. Also shout out to my Mama, Dope Sandwich, and The Local Legends,” he says. “‘If you’re under educated, work for lower wages, late on all your payments and got dreams of being famous; then this might just be your song.’ - Hokusai.”

FILE PHOTO

E. Shaver, bookseller CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Local & Independent since 1975

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Thank you for voting us best Independent Bookstore!

LIMITED SEATING INSIDE 326 Bull St, Savannah 912.234.7257 | www.eshaverbooks.com

MUSIC & CULTURE

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BEST LOCAL AMERICANA/FOLK/ROOTS BAND/ARTIST BEST LOCAL CLUB DJ

The Train Wrecks

Basik Lee

BEST LOCAL PUNK BAND BEST LOCAL ROCK BAND/ARTIST

BEST LOCAL MUSIC VIDEO

At this point, The Train Wrecks are synonymous with the Savannah music scene.

Jason Bible and company are maybe one of the longest running original bands around, and that’s a wonderful thing. They keep releasing great music, and we’ll keep on listening.

Black Tusk

Black Tusk is one of those bands that you wish was the biggest band in the world.

They’re not necessarily a secret, considering the following they’ve garnered over the years (not to mention the critical praise), but in a mainstream sense they really are Savannah’s little secret. Their records get better and better, too.

BEST LOCAL METAL BAND

Ember City

If you don’t know Ember City, you should change that. These guys know a thing or two about melodic rock and roll. Call it metal or just call it rock; it doesn’t matter too much because people are noticing these guys in a big way.

BEST LOCAL FUNK/R&B/SOUL GROUP/ARTIST

A Nickel Bag of Funk

These guys are consistently one of the best bands around, especially if you’re looking to dance and have a good time. The musicians are off the charts, and there’s really never a dull moment at a Nickel Bag show.

In addition to being one of the most phenomenal MCs this city has ever had, Basik Lee is a fantastic DJ. There was a time, pre-COVID, where you’d run into him at any given event in town and he always played the best and most eclectic music. Simply put, he’s a gift in the Savannah music scene.

Dope KNife: “Name Up”

Dope KNife is one of those artists that I constantly marvel at, and he’s also really great with music videos. It’s no wonder that the readers voted “Name Up” the best video in this year’s poll—it’s a stunning piece of visual work to add to a wonderful catalog of captivating hip-hop music.

BEST LOCAL RECORDING STUDIO

The Garage

The Garage is an incredible recording facility that definitely rivals any big-name studio across the country. They’ve got a gorgeous space and some top-notch gear; what more could you want from a studio? Savannah is lucky to have them.

BEST LOCAL RECORD LABEL

Graveface Records

Who doesn’t love Graveface? The store is one thing, of course, but the label really is doing consistently great things. Ryan Graveface is a true tastemaker, and you never know what comes next from this musical heavyweight.

BEST LOCAL ALBUM OF 2019

Nolan Hogenbloom: Jumping to Conclusions

A great young songwriter with a great album deserves some recognition, so this is a wonderful win for Hogenbloom. If you love alternative rock and a creative spin on pop music, look no further than Jumping to Conclusions.

BEST LOCAL ELECTRONIC/ EDM ARTIST/BAND

THE GREAT Bero Bero never seems to put out music that’s anything less than stellar. They keep pushing the boundaries of synths and electronic instruments, and their latest EP DANCE is an incredible example of that.

“Wow, it’s so cool to be recognized. 2019 was our second year as a band and we released material and played some shows we felt really good about,” the duo’s vocalist Veronica Garcia-Melendez tells Connect.

“We released “DANCE” in early 2020 and were picking up more traction in the South East before Covid hit. Like everyone else, we had to cancel shows and stay home. We realized during quarantine that performing and touring are real motivators for us and it’s been a challenge to keep working on new material during a pandemic. Releasing music into the internet ether isn’t the same as sharing an experience and interacting with people in the flesh. So, that being said, we really appreciate that people voted for us because that’s what it’s all about!”

FILE PHOTO

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Bero Bero

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#BOS2020 RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

RECREATION,

HEALTH & BEAUTY BEST LOCAL SPORTS COACH

Tyler Gillum

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

TYLER GILLUM THRIVES on coaching ‘not-normal’ Bananas It’s good to be top banana, and along with being the Savannah Bananas head coach for the third straight year, Tyler Gillum is also Connect Savannah’s Best Local Sports Coach.

“If I won any coaching award, it’s because we had good players, that’s for sure,” Gillum said. “The first thing is to always recruit good players and get to know them. It’s about caring for people and helping them align their goals with what we’re trying to achieve with the Bananas.

“This summer, we had an unbelievable group of guys who came to us to play during the pandemic – we put together a good plan for them to continue playing baseball and do it safely, as well. A major high five to our players! We had a phenomenal group.”

Gillum is a baseball coach and professor at South Mountain Community College in Arizona; throughout his career, he’s coached baseball every summer in locations across the country. He’s been with the Bananas for three seasons, having joined the team after prior head coach and friend of Gillum’s Sean West left to spend more time with his family.

“Sean called me and said that he thought this would be a good opportunity for me, that they’re looking for someone who can think outside the box and help them build a culture,” Gillum explained.

“So I interviewed with the front office, and just hit it off with our owner, Jesse Cole. And it’s been a happy marriage ever since!”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAVANNAH BANANAS While of course the Bananas want to win (and win, they do) – Gillum also fits right into the culture of Fans First Entertainment.

“So us just being able to get back on that field and play in front of fans … that was one “One of the first thing I heard about the Bananas is the philosophy of if it’s normal, do of the biggest things to happen in sports. We were one of the first teams to actually play a the exact opposite,” he said. “We do a lot of that! We’ve just got to entertain, always. We sporting event in front of fans!” put the fans first. Our thing is, every single night at the ballpark is somebody’s first night, Gillum does plan to be back for the 2021 season, but in the meantime he’s got plenty and we want to create those ‘never forget’ moments.” to keep him busy – along with his day job, he and his wife recently welcomed their first The Bananas also won Best Local Club Sports Team, and the opening game was son to the family. And when not thinking about baseball, he enjoys reading and watching named Best Local Sports Event of the Year. documentaries.

“I think the biggest standout moment of our opener was just the fact that we brought When in Savannah for the Bananas in the summers, he likes to hang out at Tybee back some normalcy to people’s lives this year, including our own as coaches and playIsland as well as try out the many restaurants the city has to offer. ers,” Gillum said. “My example would be – we shut down at my college on March 14 “I just want to thank all of the fans for showing up and supporting us, especially durand weren’t allowed back on campus, so our baseball season ended. For us players and ing a pandemic,” he said. “It was awesome having fans there this summer. It made a huge coaches, that’s what we do every single day, so not having baseball and not being around difference. I can’t wait to get back next summer and have another great year!” our teammates was a big change.

Runner-up: Danny Britt with Benedictine Cadets 38

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BEST RUNNING/WALK EVENT

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

The “Rock ‘n’ Roll” series of races comes to Savannah annually, taking runners through the Historic District and out to Thunderbolt before eventually ending right by Forsyth Park. The 2020 event has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but organizers plan to return Nov. 6-7, 2021.

Runner-up: Savannah Bridge Run

BEST LOCAL SPORTS EVENT OF THE YEAR

Savannah Bananas Opening

Since launching in 2016, the Savannah Bananas have quickly become firmly established as the local team.

Runner-up: Race for the Cure

BEST LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL TEAM

Benedictine Cadets Football

It’s no secret that we love our football in the South … and it’s great when our team wins a lot, too.

Runner-up: Savannah Country Day School Football

BEST LOCAL CLUB SPORTS TEAM

The Savannah Bananas

Is it the rhyming name or the bright yellow wear? We’re just crazy for this team.

Runner-up: The Savannah Derby Devils

BEST LOCAL ATHLETE

PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

Voodoo Jack

A luchador right out of Savannah, he puts a spell on wrestling fans all over.

Runner-up: Beat-A-Trick Kiddo (from the Savannah Derby Devils)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

3307 Waters Ave. | 912.352.0077 | 40volume.com NEW LOCATION COMING FALL 2020!

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Celebrating 12 Years of Business! Thank you for voting us the Best of Savannah.

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RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Mark Lebos

CELEBRATING Strong Gym’s 10 year anniversary, Mark has once again won your vote for Best Personal Trainer. At the corner of Bull and Anderson, Strong Gym is not only a place for strengthening and conditioning under the individual guidance of Lebos and his trained staff. You can access a whole suite of wellness enhancements, such as massage. In an increasingly corporatized world the locally owned Strong Gym (1321 Bull St.) stands out for it’s personal touch.

Runner-up: Natana Flynn

PHOTO BY ADRIANA IRIS BOATWRIGHT

BEST LOCAL COLLEGE SPORTS TEAM

Georgia Southern Eagles

It’s good to be blue with the Eagles leading the way.

Runner-up: Savannah State Tigers

BEST YOGA STUDIO

New Yoga Now (3131A Bull St.)

Offering high-quality yoga and meditation classes to help you loosen up and relaaaaaaax.

Runner-up: Dancing Dogs Yoga (30 W. Broughton St., Unit 300)

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Erin Ferrell CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Runner-up: Kendall Beene

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BEST PILATES STUDIO

The HUB Savannah (4505 Habersham St.)

Helping you improve flexibility, build strength and develop a strong core.

Runner-up: Pure Barre (10 Whitaker St.)

BEST BARRE STUDIO

Pure Barre

(10 Whitaker St.)

Their mission is to bring wellness and vitality to the Savannah community.

Runner-up: The HUB Savannah (4505 Habersham St.)

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BEST TATTOO ARTIST

Lauren Kidder LAUREN KIDDER didn’t begin tattooing until she was 30 years old.

Previously, she’d built furniture and sets for Broadway shows in New York City before moving back to Savannah and getting an apprenticeship at a friend’s tattoo studio.

PHOTO BY GEOFF L JOHNSON She remembers the first few years of apprenticeship terrifying. “You’re so nervous, and you don’t want to mess up,” she recalls.

Now, Kidder is the owner of Riverside Tattoo, which recently celebrated a move to the Starland District. Kidder runs an all-female shop and tattoos alongside fellow artists Josie Johnson, Lydia Schneider, and Hilliary Moore.

That’s remarkable for a largely male-dominated industry. Many times, female artists come up through the ranks in a shop run by men, and Kidder describes being talked down to and pushed aside.

While it wasn’t intentional for Riverside to have women artists, that’s how it shook out, and Kidder is proud for it to be that way. She says that some clients have shared how safe they feel at Riverside, which is the ultimate goal.

“We had an idea and a purpose, and we wanted to do things that created a safe place for women or nonbinary or queer folks,” says Kidder.

In her approach, Kidder is thoughtful and honors the history of tattooing through collaboration with the client.

“I look at where tattooing started on a tribal level,” she explains. “You’d mark someone to show their hierarchy in their community. It should be taken very purposefully—I’m not just here to take your money. I’m here to work with you and collaborate and create art.”

That attitude is what makes customers love coming to Kidder.

“As a tattoo artist, you’re kind of selling this ego,” she says. “For me, I want that ego to show tolerance and acceptance. I want whoever walks through that door, regardless of where you’re coming from or what background you have, we will come to a common ground and create something really beautiful that you’re going to walk out the door and be proud of.”

Runner-up: Scott Althen (39 Montgomery St.)

CLEARLY THE BEST!

UNIQUE EYE CARE & EYE WEAR

Voted Best Vision Center Erika Morrow, M.S., O.D., Optometrist 350 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | 912.483.6600 | FORSIGHTEYE.NET

CHRISTY SIMMONS-ROZLER

BEST HAIR COLORIST! For appointments visit C H R I S T YS IM M ONS ROZLER. GLOSSGEN IUS.COM

@black orchid tattoo

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

THANK YOU FOR VOTING

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THANK YOU

F OR VOTING F OR O UR PHYSICIA NS!

RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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BEST ZUMBA INSTRUCTOR

Sheena Allen

For the fifth year in a row, Sheena takes the top spot for her energy, enthusiasm and infectious beats.

Runner-up: Jojo Ward

BEST CROSSFIT TRAINER

Tracy Garcia

A CrossFit Level 2 trainer, online reviews say she’ll get you into tiptop shape regardless of your starting point.

Runner-up: Brian Nedab

BE S T O RT HO PAEDI S T

BES T O RTH OPAE D IS T

John T. Prather, M.D.

Evan M. Siegall, M.D.

WINNER

RUN N E R U P

BEST FITNESS CLUB

Planet Fitness

(3609 Ogeechee Rd., plus multiple locations)

A chain that offers a “Judgment Free Zone” from first-time visitors to fitness veterans.

Runner-up: Hyperformance Athletics (7805 Abercorn St., Ste. 14E)

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

Ellen Budny with Barnes Family Chiropractic

912.355.6615

ChathamOrtho.com

SAVANNAH · POOLER · RICHMOND HILL · RINCON

(130 Canal St., Ste. 603)

A certified massage therapist, Ellen Budny offers specific massages for many areas of health concerns.

Runner-up: Amanda Baldwin, Aequilibria Massage (116 Oglethorpe Professional Blvd)

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Jon Dorsey (12 Belfair Dr.)

Runner-up: Mark Powers

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER Ledesma Sports Medicine (7010 Hodgson Memorial Dr.)

Offering physical therapy, wellness programs and sport specific training for clients of all ages.

Runner-up: CORA Physical Therapy (22 W. Oglethorpe Ave., plus multiple locations)

BEST PSYCHIATRIST

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Thank you for Voting Us

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BEST VETERINARY CLINIC!

Kevin J. Winders, MD (625 Stephenson Ave.)

Board certified in general psychiatry as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. He specializes in a variety of fields, including ADD and ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders and PTSD (among others).

Runner-up: Chad Brock, MD (1601 Abercorn St.)

BEST PSYCHOLOGIST

Sarah Mello, PsyD (1915 Eisenhower Dr.)

Clinical psychologist based out of Georgia Regional Hospital.

Runner-up: Nancy Eschette, PhD (635 Stephenson Ave.)

BEST LOCAL PHARMACY

912.234.4772 • 2417 Bull St CentralAnimalHospitalSav.com

CVS

(119 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

A pharmacy chain now offering free prescription delivery.

Runner-up: Kroger (311 E. Gwinnett St., plus multiple locations)

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BEST HOSPITAL BEST URGENT CARE

St. Joseph’s/Candler (11705 Mercy Blvd.)

The leading health system in Savannah, offering comprehensive services and state-of-the-art medical technologies.

Runner-up to Best Hospital: Memorial Heath University Medical Center (4700 Waters Ave.) Runner-up to Best Urgent Care: Expercare (318 Mall Blvd., #300B)

BEST OB/GYN

Michael Jackson, MD (5311 Paulsen St.)

We wonder if he has a sparkly glove, because that would be awesome. A compassionate doctor helping women through all stages of life.

Runner-up: Carmella Pettigrew, MD (600 E. 70th St.)

BEST NURSE

Heidi Longenberger, LPN

BEST HOSPICE

A repeat winner in this category, Heidi is the nurse manager at The Midwife Group Women’s Health and Birth Center.

Runner-up: Anna Dove, RN

(1352 Eisenhower Dr.)

BEST WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER

Hospice of Savannah Offering compassionate services to terminally ill patients and their families.

Runner-up: Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital (6510 Seawright Dr.)

BEST PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

Eduard Docu, MD

(4849 Paulsen St., #314)

“Down-to-earth” and “approachable” are two words that often pop up in online reviews about this family medicine specialist.

Runner-up: Kristen A. Updegraff, MD (9 Chatham Center S. Dr., Ste. C)

The Midwife Group Women’s Health & Birth Center (1692 Chatham Pkwy.)

The oldest freestanding midwifery practice for women’s health in Georgia.

Runner-up: Telfair Women’s Health (5353 Reynolds St.)

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Ramon Ramos, MD (460 Mall Blvd.)

Serving Savannah since 1991, he specializes in using integrative approaches to enhance traditional treatments and therapies.

Runner-up: Dudley Stone, MD (2 Wheeler St.)

Thank you for voting us

BEST BARBER SHOP 1610 Bull St. bellbarberco.com By online appointment only

Thank You for voting

Dr, David Oliver Best Allergist in Savannah!

COASTAL EAR • NOSE • THROAT ALLERGY HEARING CENTER

coastal-ent.com

(912) 355-2335 • 322 Commercial Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406 (912) 450-2336 • 200 Blue Moon Crossing, Suite 103, Pooler, GA 31322

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Thanks for vo�ng Travis F. Wiggins, M.D.

BEST

Gastroenterologist!

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Claudia Gaughf, MD (639 Stephenson Ave.)

Patient, professional and attentive – offering the finest in dermatological patient care with cutting-edge treatments.

Runner-up: Lewis Collins, MD (4849 Paulsen St., #300)

BEST ALLERGIST

David S. Oliver, MD (322 Commercial Dr.)

He specializes in many fields for the ear, nose and throat – and has the only endoscopic salivary glands surgery in Savannah. Awesome!

Runner-up: Jack R. Eades, MD (5223 Paulsen St.)

BEST CARDIOLIGIST

Dale P. Daly, MD

(8 Okatie Center Blvd. S.)

Specializing in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology. Will keep your ticker tickin’!

Runner-up: Brett C. Burgess, MD (4700 Waters Ave., #400)

BEST GASTROENTEROLOGIST

Travis F. Wiggins, MD (519 Stephenson Ave.)

Treating all aspects of GI and liver conditions, but his particular interests include advance polyp removal, treatment of GERD and Barrett’s esophagus and treatments for irritable bowel syndrome.

Runner-up: Branden S. Hunter, MD (519 Stephenson Ave.)

BEST ORTHOPEDIST

John T. Prather, MD (4425 Paulsen St.)

Practicing general orthopaedics with a focus on surgery of the foot and ankle.

Runner-up: Evan M. Siegall, M.D. (4425 Paulsen St.)

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Christopher F. Barnes, DC (130 Canal St.)

Part of a family practice dedicated to helping people regain and maintain control of their health through a holistic approach.

Runner-up: Bart Wetherington, DC (114 Canal St.)

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER

The Georgia Institute for Plastic Surgery CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

(5361 Reynolds St.)

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519 Stephenson Ave.

Now Accep�ng New Pa�ents in Savannah, Pooler, Springfield and Richmond Hill

PHONE: 912-354-9447 gastrosav.com

From offering just a little nip and tuck to look a bit younger to working with breast cancer survivors for reconstruction surgery, they provide multiple services for all patients.

Runner-up: Savannah Plastic Surgery (7208 Hodgson Memorial Dr.)

BEST COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Brad Durham, DMD (1317 Abercorn St.)

With 35 years of dental experience, he’ll get you smiling.

Runner-up: Richard Baker, MDB VERIFY

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BEST DENTIST

BEST OPHTHALMOLOGIST

(207 E. 31 St., plus multiple locations)

(836 E. 65th St., #34)

Morrison Dental Associates st

Offering nearly 40 years of comprehensive dental services across the Savannah area.

Runner-up: Howard Family Dental (533 Stephenson Ave., plus multiple locations)

BEST PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Charles L. Harris, MD An accomplished retinal specialist, he’s also Georgia’s medical director for the United States Eye Injury Registry to increase awareness and prevention of eye injuries.

Runner-up: David D. Kim, MD (4720 Waters Ave.)

Cara C. DeLeon, DDS

BEST VISION CENTER

From that first tooth through adolescence, childhood is vital in setting up positive dental health for life.

Runner-up: Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry (4849 Paulsen St., Ste. 101)

(350 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

(310 Eisenhower Dr., #6)

ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Inspired by the beauty of Savannah, ForSight provides unique eyewear options to check out after your thorough eye exam.

Runner-up: Low Country Eye Care (1000 Towne Center Blvd., #502, plus multiple locations)

Vaught Orthodontics (7650 Waters Ave.)

Offering expert orthodontic care to straighten out your teeth and bite.

Runner-up: Broderick, Dusek and DeLeon Orthodontics (500 Eisenhower Dr.)

BEST SLEEP SPECIALIST

James A. Daly III, MD (340 Hodgson Ct., Ste. 2)

BEST OPTOMETRIST

We all need a good night’s sleep after 2020 … Dr. Daly has multiple board certifications to help us get there.

Runner-up: Carlton R. Kemp Jr., MD (4700 Waters Ave.)

(350 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

BEST VETERINARIAN

Erika M. Morrow, MS, OD Offering thorough, comprehensive eye exams and care along with luxury eye wear.

Runner-up: William J. Degenhart, MD (4720 Waters Ave., #2)

Melanie Bevere, DVM

(1201 E. Montgomery Cross Rd.)

Frankly, our fur babies deserve better care than we do, and Dr. Bevere is here for that need.

Runner-up: Cara Ann Hammons, DVM (2417 Bull St.)

Thank You Savannah!

(912) 355-1111 | 5311 Paulsen Street | www.jacksonobgynsavannah.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Congratulations to Dr. Michael Jackson for being voted Best OBGYN!

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THANK YOU SAVANNAH! EDUARD DOCU, MD

VOTED BEST PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

Our patients are the heart of our practice. We are dedicated to providing you and your family with expert care through the most up-to-date medical treatment in addition to providing compassionate and informative patient education and counseling.

RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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BEST VETERINARY CLINIC

Central Animal Hospital (2417 Bull St.)

Providing the very best veterinary care to your pets with a philosophy of caring for all pets as if they were their own.

Runner-up: Crossroad Animal Hospital (1201 E. Montgomery Cross Rd.)

BEST BARBER SHOP

Bell Barber Co. (1610 Bull St.)

Whether you just need a trim or you’ve been growing everything out since the beginning of 2020, Bell Barber Co. will get you looking good and feeling fresh.

Runner-up: Sports Clips (7929 Abercorn St., #400, plus multiple locations)

BEST HAIR SALON

40 Volume Salon & Spa (3307 Waters Ave.)

An upscale salon and spa offering multiple beauty services including cuts and color, hair extensions, waxing, eyelash extensions and lash tinting, among others.

Runner-up: Chapel Hair (219 E. Broad St.)

BEST HAIR STYLIST

Hannah Mills

(5521 Abercorn St.)

The owner of Hustle and Blow Dry Bar, Hannah gets rave reviews and has been featured in multiple magazines.

Runner-up: Jennifer Taylor (219 E. Broad St.)

BEST HAIR COLORIST

Christy Simmons-Rozler

(7135 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Unit C)

Remember earlier in 2020 when we had to let our roots grow out? Let’s never speak of that again. Christy can get you back to all your full hair color glory.

Runner-up: Nic Gorlesky (219 E. Broad St.)

BEST NAIL SALON

LUSH Spa + Nail Salon (5525 Abercorn St., Ste. 80)

Offering top-of-the-line manicures and pedicures from experienced professionals.

BEST MEDICAL SPA

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

“Please give us the opportunity to help you and your family feel and live better.” - Dr. Eduard Docu

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Vitali Medspa

(130 Canal St., #403)

Enhance your natural beauty, whether it’s through a facial and massage or injectables and laser treatments.

Runner-up: Glow Medical Spa (415 Eisenhower Dr., #6, plus multiple locations)

BEST WEIGHT LOSS CENTER

Docu Family Medicine Center

340 Eisenhower Dr. •• Suite Suite 910 4849 Paulsen St. 314 Savannah •• 912.354.3363 912.354.3363 Savannah DOCUFAMILYMEDICINE.COM DOCUFAMILYMEDICINE.COM

Curves

(7720 Waters Ave.)

A chain of gyms designed for women to complete a 30-minute workout and weight management program. Do a little too much baking at the beginning of quarantine?

Here’s where you can curb in the carbs.

Runner-up: Weight Watchers (7400 Abercorn St., Ste. 185)

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BEST DAY SPA

Spa Bleu (101 Bull St.)

Treat yourself with everything from organic facials to a massage to a Savannah Bee Honey & Mango Enzyme Wrap … you’ll leave here relaxed and refreshed.

BEST WAXING SALON

Wax and Wane Waxing (1917 Bull St.)

Brows a little bushy? Lip a tad hairy? Bikini line lookin’ like a Sasquatch? Here’s where you can get silky smooth skin.

Runner-up: Sweet Water Spa (311 W. Broughton St.)

BEST TANNING SALON

BEETTAN Organic Sunless Tanning (307 W. Congress St.)

Get that bronze glow with no smearing, streaking or smudging … just a natural-looking tan for all skin types.

BEST PIERCING STUDIO

Coven Piercing (305 W. Harris St.)

Offering a safe, clean experience and fine jewelry to anyone ready to get pierced.

Runner-up: Planet 3 Piercing (1702 Abercorn St.)

BEST PIERCING ARTIST

Rheannon Frette (305 W. Harris St.)

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR VOTES! BEST WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER & BEST NURSE WELL WOMAN & GYNECOLOGY CARE Intimate wellness Contraception and family planning Menopause care and management PREGNANCY AND BIRTH Water birth • Birth center birth Herbal and natural remedies Pain management during labor Lactation services 912.629.6262 | 1692 Chatham Parkway, Savannah, GA 31405 WWW.THEMIDWIFEGROUP.COM

A frequent name seen in this category, Rheannon has an extensive (and growing) list of loyal customers.

Runner-up: Mason Smith (1702 Abercorn St.)

BEST TATTOO SHOP

Black Orchid Tattoo (118 W. Victory Dr.)

BEST GOLF COURSE

Bacon Park Golf Course (1 Shorty Cooper Rd.)

Not a park of bacon … but Savannah’s premier golf course with 18-holes for everyone from the most experienced to the most enthusiastic.

Runner-up: Crosswinds Golf Club (232 James B. Blackburn Dr.)

BEST MARINA

Isle of Hope Marina (50 W. Bluff Dr.)

Offering plenty of dockage and storage space as well as event spaces, this small community is nestled right by the gorgeous Wormsloe Historic Site.

Runner-up: Hogan’s Marina (36 Wilmington Island Rd.)

Thank you for voting Dr.Cara BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST Cara C. DeLeon, DMD Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistr y 310 Eisenhower Dr. Building #6 Savannah, GA 31406 (912) 349-4021 Email: info@pds-kids.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Whether you’re going for a full sleeve or just a tiny heart that says “Mom,” get inked by any of this shop’s experienced artists.

Runner-up: The Butcher (19 E. Bay St.)

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SCAD SAVANNAH FILM FESTIVAL IS GOING VIRTUAL The 2020 SCAD Savannah Film Festival returns in its 23rd year as an all-virtual presentation Oct. 24-31, 2020. Connect with cinephiles worldwide as you watch live film premieres and unique, interactive programming from the comfort and safety of your home!

As the largest university-run film festival in the U.S., this annual, eight-day celebration of cinematic excellence honors both professional and emerging student filmmakers.

The 2020 virtual festival includes gala premiere screenings, spotlights, competitions, event series, and forums, as well as exclusive video messages from filmmakers, live Q&A events, and other original content.

SCAD has prepared talented students for professional careers in the entertainment industry for more than 40 years and enrolls more than 5,000 students in top-ranked, nationally celebrated entertainment-related degree programs.

SCAD students and alumni contribute to huge blockbusters, celebrated indies, and major studio films that receive top honors.

At the 2020 Academy Awards, 230 SCAD alumni and students were recognized for their contributions to 21 nominated films, including A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Joker, Marriage Story, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, The Irishman, and The Lighthouse. Fifty-seven SCAD alumni worked as artists, animators, and compositors on the

Marvel blockbuster Avengers: Endgame, which was nominated for the 2020 Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Sixty-one SCAD alumni were honored for their work on films nominated for Best Animated Feature, including How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, Missing Link, and Toy Story 4.

More information on this year’s festival can be found at filmfest.scad.edu, including ticket pricing and honoree schedules.

2020 HONOREE SAMUEL L. JACKSON

MONDAY | OCT. 26, 2020

WEDNESDAY | OCT. 28, 2020

THURSDAY | OCT. 29, 2020

11 a.m.

8 a.m.

8 a.m.

Shorts Spotlight: Pride Parade

8 a.m.

9 a.m.

Free Color

9 a.m.

The Seeker

11 a.m.

Global Shorts Forum: Black Voices

2 p.m.

Be Water

5 p.m.

Chuck Leavell: The Tree Man

9 a.m.

Student Shorts Block A: Live Action Shorts

12 p.m.

The Way I See It

5 p.m.

My Brother’s Keeper

12 p.m.

State of the Industry

TUESDAY | OCT. 27, 2020

6 p.m.

In Conversation with Samuel L. Jackson

2 p.m.

In Conversation with Glen Keane

8 a.m.

Global Shorts Forum: HER Story

2 p.m.

Below the Line: Casting

9 a.m.

Student Shorts Block B: Animated Shorts

11 a.m.

Boys State

1 p.m.

That’s Wild

7:30 p.m. I’m Your Woman

3:30 p.m. Wonder Women: Producers 4:30 p.m. Dick Johnson Is Dead Q&A

SUNDAY | OCT. 25, 2020 10 a.m. Southern Voices

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The Human Factor

12 p.m.

Farewell Amor

2 p.m.

The Truffle Hunters

3 p.m.

5 p.m.

5 p.m.

A Glimpse

5 p.m.

The Old Guard Creative Spotlight Conversation

11:30 a.m. Skywatch

1 p.m.

2 p.m.

The Heart Still Hums Wonder Women: Directors

Wonder Women: Below the Line

Francesco

5 p.m.

Small Town Wisconsin

The Outside Story

5 p.m.

Sky West and Crooked

6 p.m.

In Conversation with Ethan Hawke

Dawn in the Dark

6 p.m.

Docs to Watch: Directors Roundtable Uncle Frank

7:30 p.m. Minari

7:30 p.m. I Carry You With Me (Te Llevo Conmigo) 7:30 p.m. The Good Lord Bird

9 a.m.

Kusasa

9 a.m.

Alina

SCAD Production Design and Themed Entertainment Design Info Session

11 a.m.

Animated Shorts

11 a.m.

MLK/FBI

1 p.m.

Killing Eleanor

SATURDAY | OCT. 31, 2020

FRIDAY | OCT. 30, 2020 9 a.m.

9:30 a.m. Global Shorts Forum: One Planet 12 p.m.

Welcome to Chechnya

1 p.m.

New Realities of Representation for Actors, Writers, and Directors

2 p.m.

The Dissident

2 p.m.

SCAD Film and Television and Sound Design Info Session

Below the Line: Costume Design

1 p.m.

Sitting

3 p.m.

Time

2 p.m.

Chuck Connelly Into the Light

3 p.m.

Herself

2 p.m.

Master Maggie

5 p.m.

Below the Line: Production Design

3 p.m.

SCAD Performing Arts and Casting Info Session

3 p.m.

Documentary Features: Directors Roundtable

6 p.m.

In Conversation with Millie Bobby Brown

3 p.m.

In Conversation with Tessa Thompson

3 p.m.

Women of Blumhouse: Shaping Genre Storytelling at the Iconic House of Horror

7:30 p.m. Nine Days

3:30 p.m. Below the Line: Cinematography

5 p.m.

Black Bear

9 p.m.

5 p.m.

In Conversation with Richard King

5 p.m.

6 p.m.

In Conversation with Jennifer Hudson

Professional Shorts: Directors Roundtable

6 p.m.

Entertainment Weekly’s Women Who Kick Ass Panel

Spell

7:30 p.m. Sylvie’s Love 8 p.m.

Wander Darkly

11 a.m.

Wolfwalkers

1 p.m.

Stardust

1 p.m.

Entertainment Weekly’s Breaking Big Panel and Awards

3 p.m.

In Conversation with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

6 p.m.

In Conversation with Delroy Lindo

Shorts Spotlight: Trigger Warnings

2 p.m.

3:30 p.m. SCAD Alumni Panel 4 p.m.

5 p.m.

8 p.m.

Electric Jesus

2020 HONORE JENNIFER HUDSON

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

11 a.m.

5 p.m.

11:30 a.m. Dramarama

1 p.m.

Shorts Spotlight: Animated Gems

9:30 a.m. Shorts Spotlight: Overcoming Obstacles

2020 HONORE GLEN KEANE

1:45 p.m. Crip Camp Q&A

Global Shorts Forum: Far from Home

2020 HONOREE ETHAN HAWKE

The Father

7:30 p.m. Sound of Metal

7:30 p.m. One Night in Miami

2020 HONORES MILLIE BOBBIE BROWN AND STEVEN YEUN

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

SATURDAY | OCT. 24, 2020

2020 HONORES DELROY LINDO AND RACHEL BROSNAHAN

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE:

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#BOS2020 CITY LIFE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS

BEST SAVANNAHIAN BEST LOCAL LIBERAL

Travis Coles

His day gig – uh, night gig? – is as manager of Club One. But Travis Coles also serves on the Metropolitan Planning Commission and is deeply involved in the ins and outs of local policy and policy reform.

Runner-up, Liberal: Van Johnson

BEST NEW CITY INITIATIVE

Expanding the To-Go Cup Area

Over the summer, City Council passed a pilot program extending Savannah’s fable to-go cup area. The new zone extends along the Bull Street corridor from Anderson lane south to Victory Drive, to include Starland Yard. In a year of major challenges, a little bit of expanded enjoyment went a long way, and fit into social distancing measures as well. Perhaps as early as this week, City Council will vote on making the pilot program permanent.

Runner-up: Shutting Down for COVID-19

BEST NEW BUILDING

Plant Riverside

Technically not a new building of course, but Richard Kessler’s massive $350 million makeover of the old Savannah Electric powerplant on west River Street is a new concept not only in Savannah, but getting national attention as well. From the repurposing of the plant into a JW Marriott complete with replica dinosaurs, to an extended new riverwalk area for dining and nightlife, the Plant Riverside District is a major new chapter in local tourism and hospitality.

Runner-up: Starland Yard

BEST DOG PARK

Herty Pines

Right next to Grayson Stadium sits a very actively used dog park, notable chiefly for its extraordinary shade trees, as indicated by the name.

Runner-up: Windsor Forest

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP

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Compassion Christian Church BEST PASTOR/PRIEST/RABBI

Cam Huxford

Pastor Cam shepherds the growing flock at Compassion Christian Church, which has expanded into multiple campuses from downtown to Statesboro.

Runner-up, Worship: Asbury Memorial Church Runner-up, Priest: Guillermo Arboleda

BEST CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

Van R. Johnson II

YEP, IN SAVANNAH the Mayor is one member out of nine on City Council. But what a year Mayor Johnson has had, along with the rest of us. Inaugurated in January with much fanfare, within a few weeks almost every ambitious agenda item took a back seat to COVID-19. Since then Johnson has been at the forefront of best practices in fighting the pandemic, including a long public struggle with Ga. Gov. Brian Kemp over mask mandates and other issues of local control. In facing Savannah’s many challenges in 2020, Johnson took a no-win situation for most any politician and managed to eke out a political victory.

Runner-up: Nick Palumbo

CITY LIFE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Calvary Day School

One of Savannah’s oldest private academies educates over 700 students.

Runner-up: Savannah Country Day

Komen Run For The Cure

The 11th annual edition of this important event happened this month.

Runner-up: Fire Ball

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST

BEST PRINCIPAL

This indefatigable community presence works for social justice through a myriad of organizations and is a perennial winner in this category.

Runner-up: Clinton Edminster

Savannah Arts Academy

Coco Papy

Gif Lockley

Perennial winners in this category, Savannah Arts with Gif Lockley at the helm constantly sets new standards for public school excellence in Chatham County.

Runner-up, School: Charles Ellis Montessori Runner-up, Headmaster: Kelly Waldron, St. Andrew’s

BEST PHILANTHROPIST

Bonnie Walden

Over the years Bonnie and her crew have worked closely with and raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Center, multiple sclerosis, breast cancer awareness. “For the past couple of years we’ve worked with Elizabeth Myers and raise money for breast cancer awareness and worked with the Central precinct doing candy for the kids at Halloween, and our huge fundraiser is Toys for Shots, where we provided thousands of dollars worth of toys for needy children in the Central Precinct,” Bonnie says. “We also did a back to school backpack drive this year providing school supplies and backpacks for needy children.”

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Loop It Up Savannah

Molly Lieberman’s labor of love combines arts and crafts with community and youth outreach into one of the most unique nonprofits around. Beginning as a children’s knitting and crochet class at the West Broad Street YMCA, Loop It Up now offers weekly classes for children and adults throughout Savannah’s urban neighborhoods.

Runner-up: Coastal Pet Rescue

BEST COUNTY COMMISSION MEMBER

Dean Kicklighter

A perennial strong winner in this category for years, Kicklighter is the longtime representative of West Chatham on the County Commission. He gets points from constituents for his outspoken advocacy for the area.

Runner-up: Helen Stone

The Savannah Council on World Affairs

Contemporary Antisemitism in Europe Livestream Presentation by Dr. Günther Jikeli 7PM - October 29, 2020 | Register at SAVANNAHCWA.ORG

Hosted in partnership with Wunderbar Together and the World Affairs Councils of America, and sponsored by Critz Auto Group and AHAS

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Presents, Free to All:

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Drayton Hotel

52

WINNER OF BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM

Architecture | Planning | Preservation www.lyncharch.com

CITY LIFE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO BY GEOFF JOHNSON

BEST HISTORIC BUILDING

City Hall

SAVANNAH’S DOWNTOWN skyline is not complete without City Hall’s gold dome towering over the busy residents and curious tourists making their ways up and down Bay Street.

The four-story building that stands today was built in the early 1900s and stands on the same site of the original City Exchange structure which was from 1799. It opened to the public in January 1906, and has served as the center for Savannah’s municipal government to this very day.

The distinctive gold dome was once entirely copper, but was gilded with 23-karat gold leaf in 1987. Inside, you’ll see the dome lined with its gorgeous stained glass windows (and if you climb up to the fourth floor, you’ll see they are now lined with protective panes – though you can still see the ornate detailing). Those who do peek inside will see such details like the mosaic floor and ceiling in the vestibule or the original elevator shaft.

Staff also maintains a rotating art exhibit in the second floor City Council Chambers, which depending on staff availability, you can also look through on your way through City Hall.

The City of Savannah offers a free guided tour the first Tuesday of every month, which you can sign up for on their website, savannahga.gov/firsttuesdaytours. (Space is limited, so book early.)

Runner-up: First African Baptist Church

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST SAVANNAH-CHATHAM COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

Joe Buck

It’s back to the future as Dr. Buck retains this title, a win common for him during his first tenure as School Board President, from 2007-2015.

Runner-up: Julie M. Wade

BEST CONSERVATIVE SAVANNAHIAN

Bill Edwards

This longtime local talk radio veteran is a beacon of conservative thought on WTKS. Runner-up: Bill Miltiades

BEST CITY OF SAVANNAH EMPLOYEE

Chip Colley

If you’re out for an early morning walk or jog through the streets of Savannah, you may just bump into Chip Colley.

“Every morning when I get up, I go walking and I just love walking past all the beauty and history,” Colley said. “Just seeing the moss and the trees … I walk here, and think ‘There are people who go on vacation here, and this is where I live!’”

Colley moved to Savannah a few years ago from New York City to be closer to his mother and to also enjoy a different pace of life. He joined the City of Savannah’s Real Estate Services department as a real estate specialist in 2018.

“It was nice coming here after doing residential real estate,” he said. “My clients were wonderful and I loved them, but this was an opportunity to really get involved and learn about commercial real estates, which has been fantastic.”

Colley is Connect Savannah’s Best City of Savannah Employee for 2020.

“I just really enjoy doing what I do,” he said. “I love real estate. A lot of times, people come to the city looking for answers, and being able to actively help them and find what they’re looking for is a great feeling.”

It’s not usually top of mind for most people as they make their way through the city, but there’s a lot of upkeep and maintenance needed to keep some of the most loved buildings running – everything from City Hall to Bonaventure Cemetery, both of which the Real Estate Services department oversees. One of the first projects Colley worked on with Savannah was the sale of the former Broughton Municipal Building at the corner of Broughton and Abercorn. The property itself has a rich history dating back to the 1700s, while the building as it stands today opened in 1961 and was first acquired by the city in 1991 to convert into municipal space. It will now soon take on its new life as a hotel and restaurant space.

Real estate sales have slowed down in 2020 due to the pandemic, but Colley stays busy overseeing building and property maintenance, a part of the job he takes great pride in.

“I just want the city of Savannah to present itself as well as possible to the people who live here, work here and visit here,” he said.

“I love this job. I really enjoy coming to this job every day. I love what I do.”

Outside of work, he’s the president of his neighborhood’s homeowner’s association, and also serves on the board of directors of First City Pride Center, an organization actively working to meet the needs for safety, empowerment, education and wellbeing of Greater Savannah’s LGBTQIA+ community.

“I just love the whole vibe of Savannah … and the food,” he said, laughing. “There’s so much good food here, which is why I have to go walking in the mornings!

“I also love the fact that I can get in the car and be at the beach in 25 minutes. Even though I loved NYC, no one goes to the beach there. Savannah’s a very chill town.”

Runner-up: Sean Brandon

BEST CHATHAM COUNTY EMPLOYEE

Steven Meyer

Working hard for the public good!

BEST LOCAL FIREFIGHTER

Matt Caples

This Marine veteran is currently a firefighter with the Air National Guard.

Runner-up: Jack Borders

BEST LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Cpl. Barry Lewis

Helping to keep the streets of Savannah safe, thank you!

Runner-up: Rufus Brown

BEST CELEBRITY SIGHTING IN TOWN

Trixie Mattel

Former winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Allstars.

Runner-up: Bette Midler

MOST CRUSHWORTHY SAVANNAHIAN

Frank Streiff

What happens in Savannah, stays in Savannah.

Runner-up: Lady Von Luft

RIP: LOCAL PERSON YOU’LL MISS MOST

Scott Waldrup

Scott was killed in 2017 when a vehicle chase went horribly awry near City Market.

He died at Bay and Jefferson trying to save others from the onrushing vehicles. The man accused of his murder, Jerry Chambers, was convicted for the crime in March of this year.

Runner-up: Craig Harney

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CITY LIFE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Shopping Services

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BEST NEW STORE

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE

Neighborhood Comics

GROWING UP, Lee Heidel dreamed of access to a wide variety of comic books – not just the general, supermarket stories he could more easily find in his small town.

“I would pick up whatever I could find, but most of it was mainstream, like Batman or Superman,” he said. “And those were great, but being in a small town where there wasn’t much demand, I couldn’t pick up a story and follow it through from month to month.”

That all changed when he attended the University of Georgia’s Athens campus for college as an art education major – and soon had the opportunity to explore the college town’s multiple brickand-mortar comic book stores. It was then that the seed was planted for him to eventually open up a comic book store of his own.

“I became a customer, and then a fan of the culture that goes behind the comics,” he said. “The physical space that’s an area for people to come in and talk about the things they’re passionate about. I was able to frequent several different types of stores and see different takes on what a comic book store can be, from something really clean and sleek to maybe some of the more stereotypical looks.”

As life tends to happen, Heidel took his degree and put it to use as a web developer and designer. But he continued to be a fan of the comic book artform, and the idea of starting his own

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

“I became a customer, and then a fan of the culture that goes behind the comics...I was able to frequent several different types of stores and see different takes on what a comic book store can be, from something really clean and sleek to maybe some of the more stereotypical looks.” store was never far from his mind.

“As I traveled around with my wife and daughter, we continued to visit comic book stores all over,” he said. “And we found that Savannah could benefit from the type of store that we ultimately opened.”

That store is now Neighborhood Comics, which opened its brick-and-mortar doors in 2019 after months of Heidel and his team making convention and conference appearances, doing pop-up shops and assembling inventory.

“Opening day was on Star Wars Day …

May the Fourth,” Heidel said, laughing.

And in 2019, that was also Free Comic Book Day, which is a promotional effort by comic book stores across the United States to bring in customers outside of their normal reach.

“Once we opened our doors … it was really obvious to us early on that we were going to have a focus on the real storytelling side of comics, from the perspectives of both artists and writers,” he continued.

“Savannah has a wonderful community of not only currently working comic book professionals, but also future ones as well, especially with SCAD being right here. So, being able to tap into these communities

meant we really found this specific niche for ourselves that I initially didn’t anticipate.”

Heidel says that the great thing about retail, and especially the comic industry, is each store can have its own different take on things and reach entirely different segments of people. Neighborhood Comics continues to develop as a real home for independent artists and writers, both professional and more amateur.

Alongside the books themselves, shoppers can also find art supplies – the tools needed to create their own stories.

He still enjoys those DC comic superheroes he first loved as a kid, but now Heidel also enjoys supporting independently published, creator-owned stories.

He gave a shout-out to “Dryad” which is illustrated by Savannah artist Justin Osterling.

“It’s a fantastic book that combines traditional high fantasy with science fiction.

It’s a really fun read and the art is gorgeous. So whenever I can support someone like that who is literally our neighbor doing professional, high-grade art and storytelling, I want to do so.”

There’s something about holding a physical item in your hands. Heidel

attributes that experience to the seeming resurgence of many places that originally may have seemed like relics of the past – from comic book stores to record shops.

“We’ve got everything from being able to stream your favorite song to not even purchasing music at this point; you’re kind of renting it (from something like Spotify),” he said. “Same for books, same for comics. You can have access to almost everything, which is great, but the other side of that is you don’t have the physical media.”

He at first thought it was due to older generations feeling nostalgic, but he now thinks there will always be a place for these types of stores and experiences.

“I look at screens all day long,” Heidel said. “It’s nice to be able to go home, pull the album out of the sleeve, physically turn the pages, to actually hold the item.

And the other part of it is the community.

It’s going into a physical space and asking someone for a recommendation. And you’re having that conversation not just with the shop clerk, but maybe another customer in the space hears your conversation and chimes in with their own recommendations.

“I think that’s a really big important part of why we’ve been successful,” he added. “There’s a comic book for everybody. You may not have found it yet, but there is a title that will speak to you! We work really hard to help people find it.

And sometimes it’s just one book that’ll change their perception.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a challenge to all of retail, with Neighborhood Comics not being an

exception. However, it’s also presented some opportunities. “The reality is we have to continue to be flexible,” Heidel said. “We’ve had to pivot to do a lot more online … but that’s also good because it’s increased our scope. We are now regularly shipping books all over the southeast and really, the country. We have a regular in Colorado!”

He also sees a shift in consumer habits.

“There are people who, because of the pandemic, have thought to themselves that they want places like comic book stores to exist after all of this,” Heidel explained. “So they know and see the importance of continuing to support their local community stores.”

And he is hopeful that the trend will continue, even as COVID-19 becomes a blip in the rearview window of history.

“I thought being voted as Best New Store … it’s a real testament that perhaps we are what we’re trying to be, which is a place for everyone and where everyone can feel welcome,” Heidel said. “And I think it’s a real testament to how wonderful our staff has been. They are people who love comics and who love sharing that with people, and they work really hard to create a welcoming atmosphere.”

Neighborhood Comics is located at 1205 Bull Street (next to White Whale Craft Ales).

They’re open 1-5 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays. Visit them online at neighborhoodcomics.com.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

SHOPPING & SERVICES

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SHOPPING & SERVICES

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST WINDOW DISPLAY

BEST FURNITURE STORE

(36 W. Broughton St.)

(24 E. Broughton St.)

The Paris Market and Brocante A wonderful store to find the perfect gift for both a friend and yourself … the window displays change with the seasons and feature charming themes.

Runner-up: 24e Design Co. (24 E. Broughton St.)

BEST INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE

E. Shaver Booksellers (326 Bull St.)

Absolute peak cozy bookstore, complete with the fluffy cats. Along with a wide book selection, this is a great spot to pick up gifts.

Runner-up: The Book Lady Bookstore (6 E. Liberty St.)

BEST CBD STORE

Mary Jane’s CBD Dispensary (302 W. Victory Dr.)

Take the edge off with a wide variety of CBD products, as well as tobacco and highquality vapes.

Runner-up: Your CBD Store (multiple locations)

BEST CIGAR/TOBACCO SHOP BEST SMOKE SHOP

(7650 Abercorn St.)

(130 E. Bay St.)

A family business going back to 1910, current owner Jerry Portman has since opened other locations in south Georgia featuring instruments and accessories.

Runner-up: All Star Music & Sounds (2220 Bull St.)

BEST RECORD SHOP

Graveface Records & Curiosities (5 W. 40th St.)

A funky destination for records and cassettes as well as some other “spooky” items (as described by an online review) … we could spend hours browsing through the selection here.

Runner-up: Rody’s Records (1401 Habersham St.)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

High-end furniture pieces and décor to freshen up any living space.

Runner-up: Savannah Comfort (5501 Abercorn St., Ste. G)

BEST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

Portman’s Music Superstore

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24e Design Co.

Ye Ole Tobacco Shop

You’ll find your perfect cigar here, with more than 200 open boxes in each humidor.

Runner-up for Best Cigar/Tobacco Shop: City Market Tobacco (219 W. Bryan St.) Runner-up for Best Smoke Shop: Gallery Smoke (123 E. Congress St.)

SHOPPING & SERVICES

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST VAPE SHOP

Smoke City

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Offering a wide selection with friendly, knowledgeable employees who can help you make the right choice for you.

Runner-up: The Vape Loft (11155 Abercorn St.)

(4406 Waters Ave.)

(412 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

BEST LAWN & GARDEN STORE

Hester & Zipperer (6719 Skidaway Rd.)

A full lawn and garden center, with healthy plants to spruce up your home.

Runner-up: Lowe’s Home Improvement (11114 Abercorn St.)

BEST MOTORCYCLE DEALER

Savannah Harley-Davidson

Integrity Auto Repair There’s nothing quite like driving down the road and hearing a “clunk” or smelling something weird. Get some peace of mind with the quality service here.

Runner-up: Savannah Tire (101 E. Anderson St.)

BEST PLACE FOR TIRES

Savannah Tire

(101 E. Anderson St.)

Drive smoothly after a visit to this full-service tire shop.

Runner-up: Sam’s Club (1975 E. Montgomery Cross Rd.)

BEST CAR WASH

(1 Fort Argyle Rd.)

Savannah Car Wash

BEST SCOOTER DEALER

Rub-a-dub-dub, time to get your car scrubbed. Customers rave about how quick the service is here.

Runner-up: Car Spa (1803 Barnard St.)

Get your motor runnin’ at this brand’s chain store.

Runner-up: Indian Motorcycle Savannah (6 Gateway Blvd. W.)

Hawg Scooters

(2431 Habersham St., Ste. A)

Buy or rent these affordable transportation options here.

Runner-up: Savannah Scooter Company (5901 Ogeechee Rd.)

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Savannah on Wheels (106 W. Gwinnett St., Unit 1C)

Sales and rentals for this healthy, environmentally-friendly modes of transportation.

Runner-up: Perry Rubber Bike Shop (240 Bull St.)

BEST PLACE TO BUY A USED CAR BEST PLACE TO BUY A NEW CAR

Grainger Honda

(multiple locations)

BEST CONVENIENCE MARKET/GAS STATION

Parker’s Market (222 Drayton St.)

This is not your typical gas station. Fuel up your car, then head inside to fuel yourself up on a made-from-scratch Southern food buffet, fresh salads and sandwiches (the pimiento cheese is our fave), a selection of wine and beers and much more.

Runner-up: Enmarket (405 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, plus multiple locations)

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY

Enterprise Rent-A-Car (multiple locations)

A national car rental agency with flexible and convenient service.

Runner-up: Hertz (multiple locations)

(1596 Chatham Pkwy.)

Voted the Best Bed & Breakfast/Inn

912.236.6080 • WWW.AZALEAINN.COM

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

A Honda dealer with online reviews raving about the exceptional customer service, from sales to maintenance.

Runner-up for Best Place to Buy a Used Car: CarMax (8989 Abercorn St.) Runner-up for Best Place to Buy a New Car: Chatham Parkway Lexus (1120 Chatham Pkwy.)

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THANK YOU! Voted Best Women’s Clothing Store & Best Clothing Boutique

SHOPPING & SERVICES

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO VOTED!

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST DAYCARE

Bible Baptist Day Care (4606 Skidaway Rd.)

Caring for children from 6-weeks-old through 3-years. Online reviews rave about the caregivers and teachers.

Runner-up: Calvary Day School

BEST ART SUPPLY STORE BEST FRAME SHOP

Blick Art Materials (318 E. Broughton St.)

A chain store stocking an extensive selection of art supplies including sketchbooks, paints and canvases.

Runner-up for Best Art Supply Store: Starlandia Art Supply (2438 Bull St.) Runner-up for Best Frame Shop: Cindy’s Custom Framing & Antique Art (10070 Ford Ave.)

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Red Clover Boutique (244 Bull St.)

244 Bull Street • Savannah, GA

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A charming boutique with unique, stylish and affordable clothes.

Runner-up for Best Women’s Clothing Store: Maurices (200 Tanger Outlets Blvd., #365) Runner-up for Best Clothing Boutique: Spartina 449 (317 W. Broughton St., plus multiple locations)

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

J. Parker Ltd.

(20 W. Broughton St.)

High-quality classic apparel, outerwear and shoes with friendly, knowledgeable sales staff.

Runner-up: Kohl’s (7939 Abercorn St.)

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE

sara jane children’s boutique (202 E. 37th St.)

A quaint boutique with a wide selection of children’s apparel and accessories.

Runner-up: Kohl’s (7939 Abercorn St.)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

o f f e r i ng e x per t h ealth advi ce sinc e 1978

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BEST LOCAL CLOTHING DESIGNER

Kathi Rich Clothing (2515 Abercorn St.)

A boutique offering one-of-a-kind outfits and accessories, for both everyday and special occasions.

Runner-up: Red Clover Boutique (244 Bull St.)

BEST THRIFT/VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE

BEST ADULT TOY STORE BEST LINGERIE STORE

Sunset Novelties (9307 Abercorn St.)

A helpful staff and a large selection of everything you need for a good time.

Runner-up for Best Adult Toy Store: Joker Novelties (111 W. Derenne Ave.) Runner-up for Best Lingerie Store: Soma Intimates (5525 Abercorn St.)

Goodwill

BEST LOCAL BATH PRODUCTS STORE

A nonprofit retailer offering business solutions and employment opportunities/staffing services.

Runner-up: Civvies (14 E. Broughton St.)

(202 W. Broughton St., plus multiple locations)

(1900 E. Victory Dr., plus multiple locations)

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

Nourish

Natural, handmade bath products so you can create a spa experience right in the comfort of your own home.

Runner-up: Bed, Bath & Beyond (7400 Abercorn St.)

Civvies

BEST GIFT STORE

A secondhand shop buying and selling vintage apparel, footwear and accessories with an eclectic vibe.

Runner-up: Cherry Picked Consignments (120 E. Jones St.)

(104 W. Broughton St., plus multiple locations)

(14 E. Broughton St.)

BEST SHOE STORE

Savannah Bee Company

Now found nationally, there’s still something about going in one of their original locations. Body care, bath supplies, makeup, even mead … and, oh yeah, delicious honey.

Runner-up: Soma Intimates (5525 Abercorn St.)

Globe Shoe Company

BEST ANTIQUE SHOP

A great selection of men and women’s shoes. Narrow or wide? Flat or high arch? A weird giant big toe? The friendly staff here will make sure you leave with the perfect fit in a stylish shoe.

Runner-up: DSW (7804 Abercorn St., Space #1)

(217 E. 41st St.)

(17 E. Broughton St.)

BEST BEAD STORE

Epiphany Bead & Jewelry Studio (104 E. 40th St.)

You better “bead-lieve” this is where to go for all of your bead needs. Multiple online reviews say this is the only place they’ll go, with one writing they drove all the way from Jacksonville, FL just for this store.

Runner-up: Cornerstone Minerals (36 Whitaker St.)

BEST JEWELRY STORE

ZIA Couture Jewelry (106 E. Taylor St.)

A chic boutique featuring exotic handmade jewelry, accessories and gifts from around the world.

Runner-up: 13 Secrets Jewelry Gallery (426 E. Oglethorpe Ave.)

BEST LOCAL JEWELRY DESIGNER

Zia Sachedina Runner-up: Kristen Baird

Picker Joe’s Antique Mall & Vintage Market A veritable treasure trove of antique finds … there’s something new to see during every visit.

Runner-up: Wright Square Vintage and Retro Mall (14 W. State St.)

BEST DRY CLEANER

Curry Dry Cleaners

(1310 E. Derenne Ave., #2017)

A family owned and operated company that’s been cleaning Savannah’s clothes for more than 70 years.

Runner-up: Savannah Dry Cleaners (4110 Waters Ave.)

BEST PEST CONTROL

Yates-Astro

(1030 Lynes Ave.)

Expert pest and termite control for all that bugs ya.

Runner-up: Bee Green Pest Solutions (5710 Ogeechee Rd., #200)

BEST OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS

Half-Moon Outfitters (15 E. Broughton St.)

BEST COSTUME STORE

You want to get in the great outdoors, and they want to outfit you. Find men’s and women’s outdoor clothing, footwear and supplies for your next big adventure.

Runner-up: Bass Pro Shops (14045 Abercorn St.)

(8108 Abercorn Extension)

BEST LIGHTING STORE

Party City

A retail chain stocking a wide range of costume selections. Our 2020 pick is the “Adult Tiger Lover” costume, which is just the legal way of saying it’s a Joe Exotic costume.

Pace Lighting

(7 Southern Oaks Ct.)

Edison didn’t invent the light bulb for you to sit around in bad lighting. Pace Lighting offers services from design to installation.

Runner-up: Circa Lighting (405 Whitaker St., plus multiple locations)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

SHOPPING & SERVICES

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BEST REALTOR

Chelsea Phillips BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY BEST PLACE TO WORK

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Six Bricks Realty

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A NAME FAMILIAR to continual “Best Of” readers, Chelsea Phillips once again takes the top spot of Best Realtor for Savannah in 2020.

“I love making people’s lives better,” she said emphatically. “If I weren’t in real estate, I’d probably work for a nonprofit. I just think at the end of the day, it’s about how much did we contribute and add to people’s lives? And for me, real estate is my way of doing that at a very significant level.”

It’s easy to see how Phillips has become a fixture in the Savannah real estate market, having been voted as Connect Savannah’s Best Realtor since 2013. She has a great sense of humor and is very likable – but there’s also quite a bit of steel in this magnolia. She’s smart and detailed and knows exactly what sells.

On the surface, real estate seems like it was her destiny – both of her parents are also real estate brokers, and her uncle was a broker in the Savannah area, as well.

She attended the University of Georgia for a degree in marketing and real estate, and knew there was one place she wanted to make her home and grow her career.

“We used to come down here to Savannah every weekend when I was little, and it was the only place I wanted to live,” she said. “I know everything down here really well, and also love how walkable the city itself is. I do know the area which I think helps me be of true benefit to my clients.”

Phillips rattles off a list of names of both former and current home buyers and sellers who she now counts as personal friends – this is a woman who has gone weeks without a couch in her own living room as she gave it up to set the perfect stage in a home she was trying to sell. She’s ended up hiring one of her former clients. Her and her fellow realtors and agents at Six Brick Realty end up getting invited to major life events, like baby showers and weddings.

“What fills my cup up is our clients,” she said. “It hurts a little bit on closing day when they don’t need you anymore! But it’s so great being able to be a part of their lives.

“Life’s too short to work with people who don’t appreciate you, and there are also so many people out there who do need help,” she continued. “So we just have clients who are energetic, who have vision and who are willing to listen to advice and suggestions.”

Phillips is also a foster dog mom – and at times, that part of her life has merged with real estate when she pairs the perfect home and perfect dog with the perfect owners.

“I’m a part of their journey,” she declared. “I do get super involved with who these people are. This is a relationship, and it should be! It’s not just a transaction. This is your home. It’s super personal. It’s also a financial asset that’s going to appreciate and have a big effect on where you are in a few years.”

That is something Phillips continually emphasized – a home purchase is one of the quickest ways to create wealth and to change someone’s life.

“I do not take it lightly,” she said. “This is shaping someone’s fiscal future. You can set someone up for life or ruin it. I think it’s a huge responsibility … I’ve had clients who’ve been able to adopt children from third-world countries because of their real estate. I truly believe you can make a huge difference in someone’s wellbeing.”

The Savannah market is currently doing pretty well, she said. There have been a few blips – for example, the local college campuses delaying classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic has had an effect; but she also continues to see many people coming in from outside the area, drawn to the location’s charm and geography.

HGTV fans will also like knowing Phillips has served as a consultant for the network’s popular program “Property Virgins,” which takes first-time homebuyers through the process of selecting and purchasing their first home.

“HGTV loves Savannah, and I just always have the best clients,” she said. “They love a charming Savannah house, and we all love a story of a person making a great investment!”

There wasn’t too much she could share about what goes into making a successful house-based TV show, but there was one tip: “Get a pig,” she said, laughing. “The clients who had a pig were the most popular. So get a pig if you want to be on TV!” (For those who are curious, it’s in Season 15 and appropriately titled “This Little Piggy Went to Market.”)

Continually take the spot of Best Realtor is something that Phillips doesn’t take for granted … but it also makes a lot of sense considering her absolute passion for the profession.

“Real estate is my life,” she said in a serious tone. “So I’m super thankful that people would think of me and vote for me as Savannah’s best realtor. It means a lot, because I really do care.

“All I like doing is hanging out with clients and negotiating their packages and best rates,” Phillips added. “That’s my area of expertise!”

Phillips can be found online at chelseaphillipshomes.com.

THANK YOU! for voting Chelsea Phillips

Savannah’s

Savannah’s

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Company

BEST

BEST OF SAVANNAH

2019

• 2014 •

Your biggest asset deserves the BEST. Let us know how we can help TODAY!

ChelseaSold@gmail.com 912.506.0522 SixBricksRealty.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST

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BEST FLOORING STORE

BEST PET DAYCARE

(1800 E. Victory Dr.)

(107 Horizon Park Dr.)

Floor and Décor

A chain store with a variety of flooring so you’ll never have to walk on the actual ground if you so desire.

Runner-up: Georgia Flooring Direct (15004 Abercorn St.)

BEST BED & BREAKFAST/INN

(2206 Price St.)

(217 E. Huntingdon St.)

Life is just better with reliable air conditioning. Customers rave about the outstanding service Old Coast provides.

Runner-up: Byrd Heating & Air Conditioning (4131 Ogeechee Rd., #131)

BEST MAID SERVICE

Merry Maids of Savannah

Azalea Inn & Villas

A quaint, romantic getaway where you’ll feel like part of the family.

Runner-up (a tie): The Inn on West Liberty (109 W. Liberty St.) Runner-up (a tie): Ballastone Inn (14 E. Oglethorpe Ave.)

BEST HOTEL BEST NEW HOTEL

(merrymaids.com/savannah)

Perry Lane

BEST MALL/SHOPPING CENTER

A true gem in Savannah with one online reviewer calling it “the ultimate in casual luxury.”

Runner-up for Best Hotel: The Drayton Hotel (7 Drayton St.) Runner-up for Best New Hotel: The Alida Hotel (412 Williamson St.)

Professional cleaners that will make you want to eat off the floors! (But don’t.) Now offering enhanced disinfection services.

Runner-up: MaidPro (1105 East Highway 80 B)

Oglethorpe Mall

(7804 Abercorn Extension)

Featuring multiple stores and restaurants including that mall classic, a food court.

Online reviews rave about the variety of stores and how clean the interior is.

Runner-up: Tanger Outlets (200 Tanger Outlets Blvd.)

BEST FLORIST

John Davis Florist (2430 Abercorn St.)

Whether it’s for a special event, a solemn occasion, or you’re just in the doghouse, John Davis is ready to help you find the perfect arrangement.

Runner-up: Ivory & Beau (2111 Price St.)

(256 E. Perry St.)

BEST ESCAPE ROOM

Escape Savannah (905 Abercorn St.)

We all need a little escape sometimes, right? Escape Savannah offers this live action escape game with a variety of themes.

Runner-up: The Escape Company (30 Montgomery St.)

BEST LOCAL ATTORNEY

Joel K. Gerber (22 E. 34th St.)

BEST PAWN SHOP

A partner with Brannen, Searcy & Smith, LLP, Gerber specializes in residential and commercial real estate as well as corporate law, estate planning and asset protection, probate and estate administration and construction law.

Runner-up: Barbara B. Braziel (6555 Abercorn St., Ste. 105)

(3200 Skidaway Rd., plus multiple locations)

BEST LAW FIRM

Welsh Pawn

If you need a ring for your wedding (or if the wedding didn’t work out), check out one of Welsh Pawn’s locations. Locally owned and operated since 1913, they also provide cash loans.

Runner-up: Gold Mine Loan & Jewelry (8110 White Bluff Rd., Ste. A)

BEST PET SUPPLY STORE

PetSmart

(11132 Abercorn St., plus multiple locations) CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

A premier dog daycare providing a fun, safe and upscale environment for their “Clubsters.”

Runner-up: The Hipster Hound (115 Echols Ave.)

BEST HEATING & AIR SERVICE

Old Coast Heating & Air Conditioning

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Club Fido and Friends

Chain store offering essential pet supplies like food, treats and more from top brands.

Runner-up: Woof Gang Bakery (1601 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

Brannen, Searcy & Smith, LLP (22 E. 34th St.)

One of the leading law firms in the coastal region, serving the community for more than 80 years.

Runner-up: Oliver Maner, LLP (218 W. State St.)

BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT

Catherine Clark Lynch Runner-up: Jerry Bogus (406 W. US-80)

BEST PET GROOMING SHOP

BEST LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL FIRM

(1601 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

(409 E. Liberty)

Woof Gang Bakery

Get Fido all bathed and trimmed up, and then reward him with a nice treat after!

Runner-up: Barka Barkstar

Lynch Associates Architects Residential and commercial designs that are both inventive and timeless.

Runner-up: Hansen Associates Architecture & Design (24 Drayton St., #900)

2019

SAVANNAH OFFICE 22 East 34th Street Savannah, GA 31401

P: 912.234.8875

•

F: 912.232.1792

RICHMOND HILL OFFICE 405 Harris Trail Road, Unit A Richmond Hill, GA 31324 •

C: 912.484.1996

JGERBER@BRANNENLAW.COM • SAVANNAHREALESTATELAWYER.COM

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

VOTED BEST LOCAL ATTORNEY

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BEST PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

Savannah Glamour (308 E. Bay St.)

This luxury portrait experience will help you feel beautiful with quality makeup and hair styling for your glamour shots, boudoir pics or pin-up photography.

Runner-up: Wen McNally Photography (wenmcnally.com)

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Megan Jones

(itsmeganjones.com)

Whether you’re having a small elopement in a Savannah square or a large wedding plus reception, Megan can capture your special moment.

Runner-up: Wen McNally (wenmcnally.com)

BEST BRIDAL SHOP

Ivory & Beau (2111 Price St.)

Your one-stop shop – buy your dress, design your floral arrangements and book a wedding planner to handle all other details.

Savannah Glamour portrait PHOTO BY MEGAN JONES

CONSOLIDATED PLUMBING, MECHANICAL & ENGINEERING

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Plumbing, Mechanical, and Engineering contractor in Savannah with over 75 yrs experience in residential, commercial, and industrial repairs.

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VOTED BEST PLUMBER THANK YOU CONNECT SAVANNAH READERS! 10094 Ferguson Ave., Savannah | (912) 354 –6898 | info@consolidated-us.com

SHOPPING & SERVICES

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BEST LOCAL MOVING COMPANY

BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY

(savannahandsons.com)

(310 Surrey Rd.)

Savannah & Sons Moving Company

Once you find the perfect home, you’ll have to move your stuff into it. Let professionals handle it.

Runner-up: Two Men & a Truck (121 Eason Dr.)

BEST SELF STORAGE

Barrett Landscaping

Founded in 2009 by Hobie Barrett, the company now serves hundreds of residential and commercial clients in the Savannah market.

Runner-up (a tie): Larry Lee (???)

Runner-up (a tie): Victory Gardens (2500 Tennessee Ave.)

BEST COMPUTER REPAIR

Savannah Self Storage

Computer Advantage

Runner-up: SecurCare Self Storage

(8108 Abercorn St., #315)

BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY

Offering walk-in service and on-demand consulting.

Runner-up: Best Buy Geek Squad (7929 Abercorn St., Bldg. 5)

Mariner Grove

(2010 E. President St.)

Experience a VIP lifestyle with these apartments that give off an urban vibe and offers amenities galore.

Runner-up: Colonial Village at Greentree (10725 Abercorn Extension)

BEST LOCAL HOMEBUILDER

Proper Construction & Design (222 E. Park Ave.)

Ready to sit down with you and turn your dream home into a reality.

Runner-up: Mungo Homes (138 Canal St., Ste. 203)

BEST BANK

SunTrust Bank

(33 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

Now known as Truist after merging with BB&T, you can keep your coins here.

Runner-up: Wells Fargo (136 Bull St., plus multiple locations)

BEST CREDIT UNION

Core Credit Union

(100 W. Oglethorpe Ave.)

A nonprofit financial institution where you can also keep your coins.

Runner-up: Navy Federal Credit Union (7921 Abercorn St.)

BEST PLUMBER

Consolidated Plumbing

BEST TOUR COMPANY

(10094 Ferguson Ave.)

Sometimes, pipes get clogged. You want true professionals to get things flowing quickly again!

Runner-up: American Plumbing Company (2106 Sunset Blvd.)

BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITY

Savannah Quarters

Old Town Trolley Tours

(301 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

The iconic orange-red and green trolleys offer hop-on, hop-off services throughout the Historic District.

Runner-up: Old Savannah Trolley Tours (250 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

(100 Blue Moon Crossing, Ste. 114)

A premier master-planned community just minutes from the Historic District.

Runner-up: Teal Lake

Miguel Calderon

It’s truly “shocking” how many people voted for Miguel.

Runner-up: Mr. Electric (2134 Shell Rd.)

Savannah’s Best

202 EAST 37TH ST. SAVANNAH 912-234-5266 • SARAJANEKIDS.COM

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE

10 CONSECUTIVE YEARS!

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU TONS FOR CHOOSING US FOR YOUR LITTLE ONES!

Thank you everyone for making us #1!

MASTER ELECTRIC Miguel Calderon • 912.659.7888 masterelectric1226@yahoo.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST ELECTRICIAN

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BEST GIFT STORE

Savannah Bee Company

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

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For voting us Best Place to Buy & New & Used Car 11 Years in a Row!

2019

1596 Chatham Pkwy | 912.790.5444 | graingerhonda.com

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A HONEYBEE colony must work together in coordinated interactions and engagements – the survival of the entire group is dependent on every bee playing its part.

Ted Dennard, owner and founder of Savannah Bee Company, views his business the exact same way.

“The honeybee can’t live on its own; it has to go back in the hive, it has to be a part of it,” he said. “It’s kind of like our overall vision. We can’t do without anybody. Everybody on our team is integral to keeping this thing going.”

There’s no question of Dennard being a savvy businessman – from selling honey in a few different stores across the country in 1999 to now having multiple brick-and-mortar retail locations and an expanding wholesale business, a company does not grow by the leaps and bounds Savannah Bee Company has over the course of two decades without a competent leader at the helm. But while Dennard of course recognizes the importance of the business side of things, for him, it all comes back to the bee.

“I think the reason we won Best Gift Store and have been able to grow so much is the experience you get in our stores,” he said. “You get an education when you walk inside.

You learn about the different types of honey, about the mead, the body products – ‘Wow, that royal jelly is what the queen bee eats that turns her from a worker into the queen, and it also helps your skin have more elasticity and produce more collagen’ – you get that whole education. Our people are passionate and charismatic and that carries over to the customer who then walks out, and even if they’re not carrying a bag, hopefully they’re walking out with the inspiration and knowledge about honeybees.”

Savannah Bee Company was named Best Gift Store of 2020 by Connect Savannah readers – along with crediting the stellar customer service and team he’s put in place over the years, Dennard points to the popularity of the stores’ mead selections (mead is fermented honey and the world’s oldest alcoholic drink), the royal jelly body butter and – for 2020 – the honey hand soaps, which have enjoyed a boost in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. (The honey formula also doesn’t dry out your hands – an added bonus during these days of frequent handwashing!)

The stores collaborate with artists local to their areas, so you’re likely to find some variations of items in each different store. For example, in Savannah, they’ve teamed up with local chocolatier Adam Turoni to produce deliciously sweet treats that are almost too pretty to eat.

Dennard shared his excitement over new product Tupelo Honey Hot Sauce, which won the 2020 Bronze SOFI award for the best and most innovative product in the barbeque and hot sauce category from the Specialty Food Association. It’s a combination of his favorites –Tupelo Honey and Jamaican scotch bonnet peppers. (Dennard spent time in Jamaica during a stint with the Peace Corps.)

“I put our hot sauce on everything,” he raved, promising when all is said and done, it’s not THAT hot. “It is pretty spicy, but when you put it on sandwiches, pizzas, even salad and eggs, whatever … it’s just yummy, and you get this perfumey, salty heat with the sweet, soft Tupelo Honey. They just compliment each other really well.”

And of course, the honey itself is the star of the show, with Tupelo being the most popular variety. The stores offer multiple flavors of honey, including their signature whipped honeys which feature cacao, cinnamon and lemon flavors.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a challenge to the business, but Dennard sees many reasons to be hopeful and optimistic about the future. The newest brickand-mortar store opens by early November in Greenville, SC. While retail has faltered throughout the year, he said that the wholesale side of the business continues to grow, and as might be expected their online business has doubled.

It could also be noted that Savannah Bee Company is no stranger to tough times – while Dennard officially started the business in 2002 in wholesale, the first store opened on Broughton Street in 2008, which most can probably recall as not a particularly good year for the economy.

“It’s not always successful,” he said, frankly. “There’s a financial side of success, and there’s a mission success goal post, and we love it the most when both of those are high.”

The mission of Savannah Bee Company seems like it can best be summed up in just two words: Bee Love.

For Dennard, who has been beekeeping for more than 40 years by this point, he’s focused on a legacy of creating beekeepers and bee fans to carry the survival of the insect into the future. When opening the Charleston store in 2011, in trying to create awareness in the community, Dennard and his team connected with a local elementary school and ended up placing an educational glass beehive in the school library.

“The kids loved it, the teachers loved it … the media specialist did not want it there at all,” he said, laughing. “But then she ended up loving it, too! And it was exactly what we wanted, which was to raise awareness about how important and amazing honeybees are.”

After installing hives in two other schools, the nonprofit Bee Cause was born with a goal of putting hives in 1,000 schools “so we can raise a whole generation who will love

Thank you Savannah for voting us "Best Car Wash" VISIT OUR 4 LOCATIONS: Savannah: 10509 Abercorn | (912) 961-9274 Pooler: 420 Pooler Pkwy | (912) 748-8225 Berwick: 5702 Ogeechee Rd | (912) 335-1048 Richmond Hill: 8990 Ford Ave | (912) 445-2942

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE!!!

84 Years

7650 Abercorn St. (Just north of Oglethorpe Mall) 912.354.1500 | portmansmusic.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

PHOTO BY ALEX NEUMANN

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and protect honeybees.” As of today, more than 600 schools across all 50 states and into Canada, Haiti, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas have hives.

“It’s so fun and cool,” Dennard said. “Again, trying to raise awareness is our mission.

And the bigger we can grow, the more profitable we can become, and then the more awareness we can raise.”

And awareness is important to the ultimate fate of bees, as they face quite a few different adversities – other invasive species, pesticides and climate change to name some of their threats. According to a National Geographic February 2020 article, North Americans are 50 percent less likely to see a bumblebee in any given area today than prior to 1974. The bee is essential for many flowering plants, including much of what makes our food supply hum along.

“Bees are kind of that canary in a coal mine,” Dennard said. “I feel like the bees are always under a threat. There’s always something coming. That’s the bad news.

“The good news is beekeepers love their bees, and they’re going to keep them going.

They’re interwoven into the fabric of our world. You gotta have bees.”

After 40 years of beekeeping, Dennard is a testament to beekeepers loving their bees … even if it seems like they might not always love him back. He estimates he’s been stung “thousands” of times in his career, including one incident during his time in Jamaica where he walked away with around 200 welts.

But even then, Dennard sees a long future between him and the bumblebee.

“I always will have bees. I can’t not.”

And there’s also a long future for Savannah Bee Company.

“My vision for the company is to continue what we’re doing … using that beehive as a business role model,” Dennard said. “We do want to grow the company; I’m sure we’ll grow our product offerings. We want everything to be good for the consumer – whether they eat it, drink it, put it on their skin, we want them to be benefited just like a bee benefits that flower. And then our customers support us and the beekeepers, who support the bees and the whole planet! It’s a big win-win circle where everybody’s benefited.

“That’s an ambiguous vision of the future,” he said with a laugh. “But the goal is to continue growing!”

Savannah Bee Company’s flagship store is at 104 W. Broughton St. and is open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. every day. There’s also a location at 1 West River St., and the Wilmington Island Showroom at 211 Johnny Mercer Blvd. (Check their website at savannahbee.com for varying open times.)

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BEST WALKING TOUR

Savannah Dan Tours & Entertainment (Johnson Square)

Take a leisurely stroll with a true Southern gentleman … Savannah Dan can show you anywhere around town.

Runner-up: Savannah Walking Tours (savannahwalks.com)

BEST LIMO SERVICE

Limo Savannah and Executive Transportation

(463 Johnny Mercer Blvd. B7, #280)

When you need luxury transportation, this would be where you go.

BEST CATEGORY WE MISSED

Best Lighting Repair – Re-Enlighten (re-enlighten.net)

With more than 40 years of “tinkering” experience, owner Bryan Dasher can help you with repairs, custom work and chandelier cleaning.

STORE OR BUSINESS YOU’RE MOST SORRY TO SEE CLOSE

Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub

We miss the cold beer and the fish and chips. What a great location, too – and you could always count on the live music.

Runner-up: Lucky’s Market

Kevin Barry’s, gone but not forgotten FILE PHOTO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN KULLA

AUTUMN KULLAAUTUMN PHOTOGRAPHY KULLA PHOTOGRAPHY

THANK YOU

Connect Savannah readers for your votes!

CHRISTOPHER F. BARNES DC

HOTOGRAPHYPHOTOGRAPHY

BY ALLISON PEDIGO

BY ALLISON PEDIGO PHOTOGRAPHYPHOTOGRAPHY

BY ALLISON PEDIGO

BY ALLISON PEDIGO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON PEDIGO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON PEDIGO

APT B PHOTOGRAPHY APT B PHOTOGRAPHY APT B PHOTOGRAPHY APT B PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY APT B

PHOTOGRAPHY BY APT B

COMECOME VISIT SAVANNAH'S VISIT SAVANNAH'S ONLYONLY ONE-STOP ONE-STOP BRIDAL BRIDAL SHOP!SHOP! Bridal Shop Bridal•Shop Wedding • Wedding Planning Planning • Floral•Design Floral Design (912) 200-4794 (912) 200-4794 | ivoryandbeau.com | ivoryandbeau.com 2111 Price 2111St.Price Savannah, St. Savannah, GA 31401 GA 31401 Follow us Follow on instagram us on instagram - @ivoryandbeau - @ivoryandbeau

Best Chiropractor ELLEN BUDNY

Best Massage Therapist 130 Canal St., Suite 603 Pooler, GA | (912) 748-3755

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST BRIDAL SHOP!

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#BOS2020 MEDIA

MOST IMPORTANT LOCAL NEWS STORY OF 2019

Media

Local Elections

In the most transformative election of modern Savannah history, a wave of reform in 2019 swept out nearly every incumbent on City Council, elevating one, longtime Alderman Van Johnson, to the Mayor’s position. (Estella Shabazz of the 5th District is the only remaining holdover.) While the mayoral race between Johnson and former Mayor Eddie DeLoach went to a runoff as is so often the case in Savannah, the contest was never really that close, and in the end Johnson won a convincing victory. However, the top votegetter that election wasn’t Johnson, but instead an At-Large Alderwoman victor, Alicia Blakely. The resulting Council is the first in Savannah history with a majority of African American women.

BEST LOCAL TV NEWS ANCHOR

Mike Cihla

Now marking 20 years in Savannah, this Minnesota native has worked his way up the anchor ranks at market leader WTOC. Runner-up: Tiny Tyus-Shaw

BEST LOCAL TV SPORTS ANCHOR

Lyndsey Gough

This Kentucky native enthusiastically covers all aspects of the local and regional sports scene. She made it through getting COVID-19 over the summer, after your votes were tallied. Glad you’re feeling better, Lyndsey!

Runner-up: Frank Sulkowski

BEST LOCAL INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

Andrew Davis

Marking 15 years in the Savannah market, this WSAV watchdog has covered numerous award-winning local and regional investigative reports. In addition, his previous experience at a Mobile, Alabama station brings him expertise when it’s time to cover hurricanes!

Runner-up: JoAnn Merrigan

BEST LOCAL WEBSITE

City of Savannah

Don’t laugh, they’ve upgraded it! There’s even a wealth of local history research freely available, in addition to much added functionality.

Runner-up: Connect Savannah

BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST

Jim Morekis

He’s been covering the local news and keeping politicans honest for over two decades.

Runner-up: Bill Dawers

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

BEST LOCAL METEOROLOGIST

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Kris Allred COMING ON board WSAV in 2007, Kris became the first woman chief meteorologist in Savannah broadcast history. She says she wanted to be a meteorologist since high school.

Runner-up: Cutter Martin

PHOTO BY ADRIANA IRIS BOATWRIGHT

BEST LOCAL FACEBOOK PAGE BEST LOCAL INSTAGRAM FEED BEST SOCIAL MEDIA TO FOLLOW

Savannah Sweet Tease

The local burlesque troupe offers a wide range of social media activity, which has taken on a life of its own as an important cultural resource in and of itself.

Runner-up, Facebook: Stone Stairs of Death Runner-up, Insta: @casa_de_car

STONELORDS NYC/SAV

#BOS2020 MEDIA

BEST LOCAL TWITTER FEED

WTOC

From weather to traffic to breaking news, they’re a must-follow.

Runner-up: WRUU

BEST LOCAL PODCAST

End of Watch with Bootsy and Sal

This project combines 40 years of law enforcement experience of two veteran cops, Kevin Grogan (Bootsy), who many readers will know as winner of Best Local Author in these pages, and Lou Valoze (Sal).

Runner-up: WRUU

BEST LOCAL RADIO STATION

WRHQ 105.3 FM

“Quality Rock” is the byword for this perennial top finisher in this category.

Runner-up: WFXH 106.1 FM

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

Kotter

The Host with the Most at Rock 106.1, a longtime reader favorite.

BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW

Bill Edwards

Bill’s conservative talk holds it down at WTKS. Runner-up: Kid Kraddick

BEST TALK RADIO STATION

ART AND APPAREL “THE SEASON OF THE WITCH”

Local community radio with a wide range of topical news and discussion shows.

Runner-up: WTKS

BEST LOCAL TV COMMERCIAL

Mike Hostilo

It’s never a ‘Quiet Moment’ when Mike’s around, amirite?

Local and international designers and artists. Featuring Brooklyn artist Benn Fennell Located in the Downtown Design District 415 Whitaker Street, Savannah Wed - Sat 11AM - 5:30PM By appointment only on Tuesdays

W W W.S T ONE L OR D S .C OM

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

WRUU 105.7 FM

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CULTURE HISTORY

A Lightning Rod of Provocation: Savannah’s Civil War Memorial

BY AARON BRADFORD

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

WHAT WAS the original motivation for Savannah’s Civil War Memorial in Forsyth Park?

Following a fatal clash between protestors in 2017 over the removal of a monument of Robert E. Lee in Charlottesville, Virginia, the towering 48-foot monument adorned with a Confederate soldier became a lightning rod for controversy. In response, the City of Savannah changed the name from the Confederate Memorial to the Civil War Memorial to honor all those who fought. Yet, calls continue for removal. Who commissioned this structure to be built?

In 1875, the Civil War was a painful, 10-year-old memory. Close to 700,000 Americans died during the Civil War. This is the equivalent to over 6 million Americans today!

In the South, nearly 40% of those who

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served lost their life or a limb. A lament in the South was, “A rich man’s war and a poor man’s fight.” Mourning widows wore all black for two years; mothers for one year, and sisters for six months.

As Anya Jabour describes, “Progressing from the all-black head-to-toe ensembles of ‘heavy mourning’ through the black gowns and white gloves and collars of ‘full mourning’ and finally to the greys and purples of ‘half mourning,’ white southern women announced their grief through their clothing.”

In the ideal “good death,” loved ones surrounded by family peacefully passed on their deathbed to Heaven. The heartbreaking reality was that fathers, husbands, sons and brothers marched off to war to be lost in unmarked graves in distant fields.

In 1875, the Ladies Memorial Association commissioned a memorial to remember Savannah’s Confederate dead. The cost was $21,250, which is the equivalent to $502,813.64 today. The pedestal was carved in Canada and shipped down the coast. The somber statues named “Silence” and “Judgement” were replaced with a bronze anonymous Confederate soldier standing at rest. A poem upon it reads, “Blow from the four winds, o breath, and breathe upon these slain that they might live.”

After the war, a bitter Confederate widow asked Robert E. Lee how she was to raise her children. He replied, “… bring up your sons to be Americans.”

A sign at a recent protest at the Civil War Memorial on October 11 read, “Tell the whole story.”

Is this Memorial not an essential of remembering the cost of freedom for all Americans? May we work together to tell the stories of all Savannahians who endured such a terrible chapter in Savannah and American history.

The ending of slavery, preservation of the Union, and defense of homes and Constitutional principles came at a terrible cost. The Memorial is powerful reminder of a bloody conflict that resulted from a breakdown in dialogue. May we be inspired by the sacrifice made by the widows and orphans to remember loved ones, regardless of the political causes.

MUSIC

Soundboard

SOUNDBOARD IS A FREE SERVICE - TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE SEND YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY TO SOUNDBOARD@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. DEADLINE FOR INCLUSION IS NOON MONDAY, TO APPEAR IN WEDNESDAY’S EDITION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.

Draucker Trio @WILD WING CAFE SAT., OCT 24, 7 P.M.

Totally Awesome Bar Standup Comedy Open Mic, 8 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC

B & D Burgers Pop Culture Trivia, 7:30 p.m.

McDonough’s Trivia, 7 p.m.

Southbound Brewing Horror Movie Trivia, 7-9 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.

The Wormhole Open Jam, 9 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Service Brewing Company Trivia Night with Daniel, 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY 10.22 LIVE MUSIC

Coach’s Corner Eric Culberson, 7-10 p.m.

Cohen’s Retreat Munchies and Music, 5-9 p.m.

The Perch at Local 11 ten Levi Moore, 5:30 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m., Joe Alterman, 1 p.m., Joe Alterman, 5 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Gypsy Jazz, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

The Wormhole Karaoke, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY 10.23 LIVE MUSIC

Barrelhouse South Mainstream Band, 9 p.m.

Churchill’s Pub Oisin Daly Band, 9:30-1 a.m., Oisin Daly Solo, 6-9 p.m.

Coach’s Corner Junkyard Angel, 7-10 p.m., Junkyard Angel, 7 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Jacob Evans Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m., Joe Alterman, 5 p.m., Howard Paul, 7 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Live Jazz Music, 6:30 p.m.

Service Brewing Company Bluegrass By The Pint w/

Swamptooth, 6 p.m.

The Shrimp Factory Chris Staley, 6-9 p.m.

The Warehouse Tony Brown, 8 p.m.midnight Wild Wing Cafe The Positions, 7-10 p.m.

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, Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

River House Ford Natirboff, 6-9 p.m.

SATURDAY 10.24 LIVE MUSIC

The 5 Spot Live at the 5 featuring: Eric Britt, 6-9 p.m.

Barrelhouse South Mainstream Band, 9 p.m.

Churchill’s Pub Phantom Wingo, 9:30-1 a.m., Jake King, 6-9 p.m.

Coach’s Corner Toxic Oscar, 7-10 p.m., Toxic Oscar, 7 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Basik

Lee, 7 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar FreeSpirits Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m., Joe Alterman, 5 p.m., Lafaye & The Fellows, 7 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Live Jazz Music, 6:30 p.m.

River House Stan Ray, 6-9 p.m.

The Shrimp Factory Ricky Standard, 6 p.m.

The Warehouse Hitman, 8 p.m.midnight Wild Wing Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 3-6 p.m., Draucker Duo, 7-10 p.m.

Voodoo Soup, 10:30 p.m., Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m.

The Perch at Local 11 ten Ford Natirboff, 5:30 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Eric Jones, 11 a.m., Fabulous Equinox Krewe, 9 p.m.

Wild Wing Cafe Jason Courtenay, 1-4 p.m.

9 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m., Scott Giddens, 5 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

Bay Street Blues Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Moon River Brewing Co. Trivia, 6 p.m.

KARAOKE

MONDAY 10.26 LIVE MUSIC

The Wormhole Neighborhood Pub & Music Venue WOW: A Really Good Comedy Show (Socially Distanced), 8 p.m.

Club One Super Gay Bingo, 5:30 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m., Scott Giddens, 5 p.m.

SUNDAY 10.25

The Flying Fish Trivia Night, 7-9 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC

Collins Quarter at Forsyth Live Music, 3 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club

TRIVIA & GAMES KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing,

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

Fia Rua Irish Pub Family Movie Night, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY 10.27 LIVE MUSIC

TRIVIA & GAMES

Basil’s Pizza and Deli Trivia, 7 p.m.

Coach’s Corner Texas Hold ‘Em, 7 p.m.

CoCo’s Sunset Grille Trivia, 7 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Trivia, 10 p.m.

Fia Rua Irish Pub Trivia, 7:30 p.m.

McDonough’s Bingo, 7 p.m.

Savannah Taphouse Trivia, 7 p.m.

KARAOKE

Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.3 a.m.

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, ongoing, 9 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

WEDNESDAY 10.21

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MUSIC THE BAND PAGE

BY BUCKY BRYANT

LAFAYETTE @STARLAND YARD

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Band mates Ethan Stewart and Susanna Kennedy make up the eclectic, Savannah based band known as “Lafayette.” The band combines violin, guitar and vocals in a country meets post-rock combination. Both were raised playing music and singing in the church - a fact that has undoubtedly shaped their style and approach to playing music. They approach their covers, which range anywhere from Alison Krauss to Drake to Bruce Springsteen, with a unique and fresh perspective.

SUNDAY, OCT. 25, 6-9PM

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PHANTOM WINGO @CHURCHILL’S PUB

VOODOO SOUP @CONGRESS STREET SOCIAL CLUB

Top off the weekend with the master of funk, Big E (Eric Moore) and his band Voodoo Soup. If you can sit still through one set, you aint breathing!

SUNDAY, OCT. 25, 10PM

Enjoy an eclectic mix of old home blues, with a more laid back feel for this venue. A must see for southern blues fans.

SATURDAY, OCT. 24, 9:30PM

CULTURE FILM

NEWS & OPINION CITY NOTEBOOK

BY TAYLOR CLAYTON THE 2020 SCAD Savannah Film Festival will stream all its events virtually this year, opening the door for new possibilities.

For the first time in the 23-year history of the event, the Savannah College of Art and Design will virtually host the SCAD Savannah Film Festival. Over the course of eight days, from October 24-31, students and film-fanatics alike will experience all the festivities that the largest university-ran film festival in the nation has been accustomed to presenting, only this time it will be via online digital platforms.

The 2020 festival will include events and screenings such as Docs to Watch, gala and signature screenings, professional competition films, student films, the Animation Corner, shorts, forums, and much more. Honored Guests include Samuel L. Jackson, Millie Bobby Brown, Ethan Hawke, Tessa Thompson, Jennifer Hudson, Delroy Lindo, Rachel Brosnahan, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Steven Yeun, and Glen Keane, many of whom will be available to speak to audience members immediately after their award presentation.

“Something that was extremely important to us was engagement,” said Christina Routhier, Executive Director of the SCAD Film Festival. “We don’t want to lose that, even if we’re virtual.”

Routhier and her team aim to replicate a normal discussion to the best of their ability, with live stream forums that allow an open discussion between viewers during and after the scheduled event.

“You can actually—during the conversation or part of the conversation—chat with each other, and everyone can see people chatting with each other, while not taking up the entire screen. Then when it comes time for the Q&A, you can enter your questions in, everyone can see your questions, and then they will select questions from the audience to answer.”

Adapting to the pandemic has been hard on everyone, but it does have its blessings in disguise. Many of the virtual aspects of the festival available to guests this year plan on being a mainstay for festivals to come, as Routhier is pleasantly pleased

with the number of people they will be able to reach online.

“These incredible ‘in conversations’ that we’re having this year with people like Samuel L. Jackson, Millie Bobby Brown, Jennifer Hudson, Ethan Hawke, and all the others, are one of a kind,” said Routhier. “Those usually would have been in person, of course in Savannah, but now so many more people are able to join in on these ‘in conversations’ because they are virtual.

To be able to offer it to four times as many people, to watch and experience, is very exciting to us.”

The films available to attendees this year will be at a premium, as the festival will screen 148 films, 17 documentary films and 111 shorts. This includes 14 world premieres, four U.S. premieres, and four North American premieres. The SCAD Savannah Film Festival is considered a key stop on the Academy Award festival circuit, and many of the films featured are already gaining steam.

“We have screened the Academy Awardwinning best documentary five years in a row and the Academy Award-winning best feature five years in a row as well,” said Routhier.

“We’re excited about all the amazing films we have this year. We have the North American premiere of ‘Francesco’ which is a documentary about Pope Francis and we are having an exclusive conversation from the Vatican, that was filmed at the Vatican.”

The festival is also an important place for aspiring film students at SCAD to educate themselves and make connections in the entertainment industry.

“The SCAD Savannah Film Festival helps our students launch their careers,” said Andra Reeve-Rabb, Dean of the School of Entertainment Arts. “A virtual festival will give all of our students a front-row seat to engage with the talented honorees and brilliant filmmakers during panel discussions and master classes. It’s connections like those which have helped our students secure hundreds of above and below the line jobs in Georgia’s film and television history this year alone.”

Event and film screening schedules can be found on their website. For available tickets and passes, visit filmfest.scad.edu

AFTER MONTHS of lovingly restoring the historic Bryson building on Chippewa Square, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Cora Bett Thomas Realty is moving into its new Georgia corporate headquarters located at 5 East Perry Street.

Local designer Jerome Elder, CEO of J. Elder Studio, was selected by Bay Street Realty Group and Cora Bett Thomas Realty to oversee both the design and construction of this project. Elder has been recognized regionally for his historic preservation and design work at several of Savannah’s most beautiful and eclectic homes and restaurants, including Ele Tran Cuisine’s Little Duck Diner, Flock to the Wok, and Coco & Moss. Elder selected Heritage Construction as the project contractor.

Working alongside longtime Savannah real estate maven Cora Bett Thomas, known for her pioneer efforts in redeveloping historic Savannah, Elder strove to preserve the building’s original architectural details including the scrolling ironwork that climbs the curved staircase and trims the mezzanine railing, the geometric plaster molding that covers the walls, beams and columns and the coffered tin ceiling. Thomas reimagined the space as a charming and elegant Savannah home parlor, recalling the space’s fine architectural details, with respect to the building’s heralded local history and now it’s next chapter as home to the largest real estate company in the region.

“From the moment I heard we were able to get this remarkable building for our new headquarters, I knew it would be the perfect setting to showcase what our area is all about – preserving the beauty of a bygone age while incorporating an eclectic mix of fresh and new elements,” Thomas said.

Originally built in 1904, the Bryson building first housed the TA Bryson Automobile Garage, the name is still inscribed in distinctive Art Nouveau copper lettering on the building’s red brick façade. As the first dealership in

the south and one of the first in the country, Thomas Archer Bryson paved his way into Savannah’s history by selling luxury Packard automobiles to Savannah’s elite. The space was transformed into the upscale women’s clothing store, Town & Country, in the 1960s and ’70s before becoming a wedding and reception center known as Bryson Hall.

To update the space, Elder started with a clean, soft white coat of paint to accentuate the plaster details and the tin ceiling and installed black and white cross pattern tile floor inspired by the original damaged flooring found during demolition.

“This downtown landmark has enjoyed many lives in its 116-year history,” Elder said. “The imperfections are part of what tells its unique story.”

Part of that story is original woodframed swivel windows discovered behind a layer of drywall during demolition. Elder repurposed the windows on the mezzanine level to overlook the grand entry space.

The windows are enhanced with glass wall partitioned offices on the first floor giving the area both scale and proportion.

The floor-to-mezzanine plantation shutters separate the grand entry from the interior meeting rooms while the floor to ceiling palms connect the interior to the natural beauty just steps away on Chippewa Square.

“We’re happy to start this new chapter of our growing company in a historically restored space that offers all the great modern conveniences,” said Will Thurman, the broker in charge of Bay Street Realty Group and Cora Bett Thomas Realty.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

The SCAD Savannah Film Festival Cora Bett Thomas Realty Reaches New Heights moves into new headquarters

For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Cora Bett Thomas Realty, visit their website at baystreetrealtygroup.com.

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MUSIC FEATURE

YOU ARE THE BEST!

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

THANK YOU BEST OF SAVANNAH 2020 WINNERS PARTY FOOD SPONSORS

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‘The Vagabonds’ Rock Southbound Brewing Company

BY JONATHAN VASATA SOUTHERN-ROCK ICONS “The Vagabonds” will be back in town celebrating the release of their fifth album entitled “V” with a stop at Southbound Brewing Company on Friday at 7 p.m. The Alabamaborn, Tennessee-bred quintet are excited to bring their unique sound, characterized by an eclectic mix of southern rock and country to the stage in Savannah for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

With blistering guitar riffs and earnest song-writing, The Vagabonds have been drawing crowds and selling-out shows since their inception in 2009. Since then, they’ve toured Europe three times, travelled every corner of the United States and rocked major festivals such as the Peach Festival, Sweetwater 420, Magnolia Fest, Sunfest and Taste of Randolph.

With powerhouse performances and memorable lyrics, The Vagabonds have endeared fans worldwide to their authentic and original hits such as “Georgia Fire” and “Shaky Hands.” Integrating musical

complexities that draw from multiple genres, their newer material deals with heartfelt themes that touch on the everyday struggles of men and women navigating an increasingly complex landscape of politics, work, life and love.

The energetic musicianship they’ve been known to bring to each performance has earned them prestigious gigs opening for both Lynyrd Skynyrd and the late Gregg Allman. On being back on the road, lead vocalist and songwriter Daniel Allen said, “We can’t wait to be back in Savannah playing live music! We’re bringing new music and a good time, so come join in!”

SouthBound Brewing Company is located at 107 E. Lathrop Avenue in Savannah. Tickets prices range from $12.50 for the ‘Early-Bird 2-pack’ up to $200 for a VIP table of eight guests and can be purchased through Eventbrite at either their Facebook page or on their website at: www. thevegabonds.com/tour For more information, call Southbound Brewing Company at (912) 335-1737 or go to: www. southboundbrewingco.com

The Cold Case of Anthony Minor They had been caught by video surveillance at a gas station across the street from the ATM. It was the only camera available to police at the time. A surveillance camera was put in place at the ATM three days after Anthony’s murder.

According to Larry, detectives were able to locate one of the men, whom they interviewed and determined was not involved

BY BRITTANY HERREN in the incident. The second man was never located or even identified. Understandably, all that was known of the potential witness LARRY SMITH CAN recall the moment he was what could be seen in a grainy surveillearned of his little brother’s death with lance photo. His identity was the provervivid detail, even with the distance of ten bial needle in a haystack. years.

Days, months and now years have Freshly cooked fish and shrimp released passed since Anthony’s death and while a circuitous course of steam filling the time is the medium by which we all live, kitchen with an aroma that suggested for Larry, it has become an axis by which dinner-time was near. Larry was looking he measures this unfathomable loss that forward to sliding into his usual dining he is left to explain with terrible phanchair; a welcome norm after returning tasms that only further begs the question: home from a somber trip to “Why?” An internal inquiry Louisiana where he had just that with each passing day has accompanied his wife to lay become more of a semantic her brother to rest. Howsatiation, morphed into a plea ever, before he could settle to God. “Why?” in, a sudden succession of When asked if he thinks the shrill rings cut the beckoncase will ever be solved after ing aroma of supper. It was all this time, Larry pauses. one of Larry’s sisters.

“No,” he says as he exhales.

“The first call was that “I just keep hoping and Anthony was being taken to praying.” the hospital,” he recalled.

A truly humble answer for a “Then, the second call came big brother who reaches out to about two hours later. He Crime Stoppers every, single had passed.” year to request Anthony Minor press on his brothwas shot and er’s case and to give killed at an ATM a check to Anthoon Waters Ave. in ny’s reward fund.

Savannah, not far It is up to $10,500 from the Bank of now, and while America Branch $5,000 was a donaon November 6, tion from Bank of 2010 around 7:30 America, $5,500 is p.m. He was just from Larry’s own 49-years-old. When pocket. police and paraLarry’s hope Surveillance video from a gas station across medics arrived on is that the press, the scene, Anthony’s the street from the ATM in combination truck was still runwith the large ning with the lights on. His debit card was cash reward (that will include an addistill inside the ATM and he didn’t have a tional award from Crime Stoppers of up chance to complete his cash withdrawal to $2,500), will compel someone, anyone before he was ambushed by an unknown to come forward with information about gunman. His body was sprawled motionthe night Anthony was killed. Maybe that less across the pavement. second, potential witness saw the person In the days following the murder, detec- who did it. Maybe the interviewed witness tives with the Savannah Police Departsaw more than they told to police. Maybe ment were on the search for two men who the killer is already in a jail cell for another they believed to be potential witnesses. crime and eaten up with guilt. Too many

JONESIN’ CROSSWORD

BY MATT JONES ©2012, 2020 Answers on page 79

“STRETCH THOSE QUADS!” A HARDCORE FREESTYLE WORKOUT. [#570, MAY 2012].

ACROSS

1 Last half of a ball game?

5 Used (to) 15 She uses a bird to sweep the house 17 Computer overhaul 18 Gridiron measurements (abbr.)

19 Little bite 20 Gold, to Guatemalans 21 “Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire?” network 22 Bodybuilder’s units 24 Word before Earth or City, in computer games 27 Drab shade 29 She was Dorothy on “The Golden Girls” 30 Org. that listens for alien signals 31 It’s obsolete 35 Jovial question from someone eager to help 36 It covers Miami, Montpelier and Montreal 37 SOPA subject 38 Opera follower?

39 New Year’s, in Hanoi 40 Mandolin relative 41 Robin Meade’s network 42 Southwest sch. whose mascot is King Triton 44 Daily grind 45 Guy to say “’Sup?” to 46 “___ Ho” (Best Original Song Oscar winner of 2009)

47 The D in OED 50 Easy lunch to prepare 56 Insider’s knowledge 57 Viktor Bout or Adnan Khashoggi 58 Dark form of quartz

DOWN

1 Off-kilter 2 Messed with the facts 3 World Series precursor, for short 4 “As I see it,” in chatrooms 5 Tack on 6 Shorten nails 7 Smoke 8 Palindromic prime minister of the 1940s-60s 9 Leather sharpener used in old-timey barber shops 10 Old rulers 11 Chemist Hahn 12 “Excusez-___ ...”

13 Roxy Music name 14 Room for board games, perhaps 16 Person with a booming voice, often 21 Donut shop option 22 Upgraded 23 Fail spectacularly, like a skateboarder 24 ___ Saga (David Feintuch series of sci-fi novels) 25 “No need to pay” 26 Bishops’ wear 27 Grain alcohol

28 Put someone in their place 29 Some hats worn on The Oregon Trail 30 Lose your composure, in junior high-speak 31 “Anchors ___” 32 Senator Jake who flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery 33 Heart location?

34 Ophthalmologist’s concerns 42 Implored 43 Richard who played Don Barzini in “The Godfather” 44 Vacation time, in slang 45 ___ the Younger (Arthurian knight) 46 Director Campion 47 Zoologist Fossey 48 Disgusting 49 Cereal with gluten-free varieties 50 Org. that bestows merit badges 51 “Love, Reign ___ Me” (The Who) 52 420, for 20 and 21 (abbr.)

53 “Just as I suspected!”

54 “On the Road” protagonist ___ Paradise 55 “Never heard of her”.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

NEWS & OPINION CRIME

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CRIME

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

maybes to list.

With all the maybes, there are a few certainties, and the biggest one is that Anthony is not forgotten in the least.

Larry loves to brag about Anthony, affectionately called “Kenny”, and their time together in the U.S. Army. The two went to Iraq together in 1990 to serve in Desert Storm and were even stationed together in

Ft. Bliss, Texas and Mannheim, Germany.

Anthony also has seven living siblings, two daughters and a son who still reside in Savannah and four grandchildren, but only got to meet one before his death.

If you have any information regarding the death of Anthony Minor, you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously 24/7 at 912234-2020 or you can submit a tip online

at SavannahChathamCrimeStoppers.org.

A quick aside before this column’s conclusion, Lt. David Barefield with the Savannah Police Department is on the Board of Directors for Crime Stoppers of Savannah-Chatham County and was one of the first detectives to work Anthony’s case. Coincidentally, this case is the first I learned about and went through when

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Reed Galen is an American political consultant who has worked long and hard for conservative causes. But in next week’s election, he opposes conservative Donald Trump, whom he regards as an authoritarian tyrant. He writes, “Democracy is on the ballot. It’s a binary choice between good/ bad, honorable/dishonorable, healthy/ sick, forward/backward. There has been nothing like this in our lifetimes.” If you’ve read my words for a while, you know I’m a connoisseur of ambiguity and uncertainty. I try to see all sides of every story.

But now I’m departing from my tradition: I agree with Reed Galen’s assessment.

The American electorate really does face a binary choice between good and bad. I also suspect, Aries, that you may be dealing with a binary choice in your personal life.

Don’t underestimate how important it is that you side with the forces of good.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCTOBER 21-27, 2020

Taurus politician Dan Coats has belonged to the conservative Republican Party all his adult life. He served in the US Congress for 24 years, and later as President Donald Trump’s Director of National Intelligence. Since leaving that office, Coats has criticized his ex-boss. He has said, “Trump doesn’t know the difference between the truth and a lie.” In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to be fiercely non-Trump-like in the coming weeks. It’s crucial to the welfare of you and yours that you tell the whole truth.

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GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Many stories that were popular long ago are still studied today. One example is the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, originally told during the first century BC. Another is Homer’s epic tale the *Odyssey*, which harkens back to the sixth century BC. I have no problem with learning from old tales like these. It’s important to know how people of previous eras experienced life. But for you in the coming months, I think it will be crucial to find and tell new stories—tales that illuminate the unique circumstances that you are

living through right now.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

I’m surprised when I hear that fans of Donald Trump enjoy my horoscopes. My political views, which are deeply aligned with my spiritual philosophy, have always been very progressive. And I’ve never hidden that fact. How can someone who appreciates my ideas also like Trump, a vile bully who has unleashed enormous cruelty and chaos? If you yourself are a Trump fan, I understand that after reading the preceding words, you may never read my words again. But I need to follow my own astrological advice for us Cancerians, which is: Be bold and clear in expressing your devotion to the ideals you hold precious. For me that means supporting Joe Biden, an imperfect candidate who will nevertheless be a far more compassionate and intelligent and fair-minded leader than Trump.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Dionysus was the ancient Greek god of drunkenness and ecstasy and madness.

His followers were inclined to immerse themselves in those states. Yet as historian Robert Parker points out, Dionysus himself “was seldom drunk, seldom mad.” His relationship with his consort Ariadne was “dignified and restrained,” and “smiling tranquility” was his common mood. I recommend that in the coming weeks you act more like Dionysus than his followers—no matter how unruly the world around you may become. The rest of us need you to be a bastion of calmness and strength.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Virgo military expert Jim Mattis enlisted in the US Marine Corps when he was 19 years old. Forty-three years later, having been a Marine all his adult life and a general for six years, he retired. Later, he served under President Donald Trump as the US Secretary of Defense. After leaving that position, Mattis testified that Trump was “dangerous” and “unfit,” adding that Trump “has no moral compass.” Be inspired by Mattis, Virgo. Do your part to

I was hired in October of last year. To say the least, this one is personal for quite a few of us and I cannot emphasize enough that no piece of information is too insignificant or too small. In a case like this, it’s often the obscure details that tend to bring it all together.

BY ROB BREZSNY

beautyandtruth@freewillastrology.com

resist the harmful and unethical actions of powerful people who affect you. Be extra strong and clear in standing up for integrity.

omens, I invite you to meditate on how you could reduce any and all of your own personal suffering. The time is right. Be ingenious! Be proactive!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

“Feeling too much is a hell of a lot better than feeling nothing,” declares Libran author Nora Roberts. I trust you will see the wisdom of that perspective in the coming weeks. On the downside, there might be some prickly, disorienting feelings arriving along with the rich flood of splendor. But I’m convinced that most of the surge will be interesting, invigorating, and restorative—although it may take a while for the full effects to ripen. And even the prickly, disorienting stuff may ultimately turn out to be unexpectedly nurturing for your soul.

Scorpio politician Joe Biden wasn’t my first choice for President of the United States. During the selection process, I championed his opponents Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders. But now I support Biden wholeheartedly. He has several policies I don’t agree with, but on the other hand I know it’s critical that we Americans ensure he replaces the appalling, corrupt, incompetent Trump. In the coming days, I advise you Scorpios to also consider the value of wise and pragmatic compromise in your own sphere. Don’t allow a longing for impossible perfection to derail your commitment to doing what’s right.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

The United States has suffered terribly from COVID-19. Of all the world’s countries, it has had more cases and more deaths. Why? One major reason is President Donald Trump. He has consistently downplayed the seriousness of the disease, has advocated many unscientific cures, and has been lax and erratic in supporting the therapeutic measures that virtually all epidemiological experts have recommended.

It’s no exaggeration to assert that Americans will reduce their coronavirus misery by electing Joe Biden as president. In this spirit, and in accordance with astrological

“By my love and hope I beseech you,” pleaded philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche.

“Do not cast away the hero in your soul!

Hold holy your highest hope!” That’s always good advice, but it’s extra crucial for you now. You will generate good fortune for yourself by being in close connection with the part of you that is bravest and wisest. The people whose lives you touch will have a special need for you to express the vitalizing power of intelligent hopefulness.

More than maybe ever before, you will be inspired to cultivate your heroic qualities.

I’ve been writing my horoscope column for a long time, and it has evolved dramatically. One aspect that hasn’t changed is that every four years, I’ve endorsed a candidate for the president of my home country, the United States. Another unchanging aspect is that I regularly reveal my progressive views about political matters. Some people who have only recently discovered my writing express dismay about this. “I don’t want politics with my horoscopes!” they complain. But the fact is, politics have permeated my horoscopes since the beginning. Now I urge you to do what I just did, Aquarius, but in your own sphere: If there are people who are not clear about who you really are, educate them.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

“The worse the state of the world grows, the more intensely I try for inner perfection and power,” wrote Piscean author Anais Nin during World War II. “I fight for a small world of humanity and tenderness.”

I encourage you to adopt that perspective for the rest of 2020. It’s an excellent time to respond boldly to the outer chaos by building up your inner beauty. I also suggest this addition to Nin’s formula: Call on your resourceful compassion to bolster the resilience of your closest allies.

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