Connect Savannah November 11, 2020

NOV 11-17, 2020 NEWS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM

Paul Grassey is right on time

Celebrating a local veteran and hero

Photo by Alex Neumann

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WEDNESDAY 11.11

Chatham County Veterans Day Parade

This year’s Veterans Day Parade moves to Port Wentworth due to the City of Savannah not yet issuing event permits.

Come out and salute our veterans for their service.

10 a.m.

Port Wentworth Elementary School, 507 South Coastal Hwy. facebook.com/savannahveterans/

2020 Savannah Book Festival Virtual Event: An evening with Dave Barry The Savannah Book Festival continues its 2020 virtual season with Pulitzer Prizewinning columnist and bestselling author Dave Barry. Barry will be discussing his latest book, Lessons From Lucy and be in conversation with Harrison Scott Key (SBF 2019), the author of two memoirs, Congratulations, Who Are You Again? and The World’s Largest Man, which won the Thurber Prize for American Humor.

Registration details at savannahbookfestival.org.

7 p.m. savannahbookfestival.org

THURSDAY 11.12

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SATURDAY 11.14

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

Weekly farmers market on Talahi Island highlighting local growers and makers, healthy foods and a positive environment.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Novemberfest - A Marketplace of Crafts for All Seasons

Join the 41st annual Novemberfest - A Marketplace of Crafts for All Seasons.

Start your holiday shopping with gifts for Telfair Museums presents a virtual lecture all. The event promises a great selection

by Mia Bay on her book, “Mary Turner and of accessories, centerpieces, children’s the Memory of Lynching.” The series is items, quilts, garden art, home décor, part of the museum’s multiyear Legacy of kitchen items, pet beds and toys, wreaths Slavery in Savannah initiative, which also and decorated Christmas trees. Be sure to will include a symposium in late 2021, out the TLC Bake Shoppe for homemade exhibitions of contemporary works by goodies from candy to jams and jellies, black artists, community partnerships, and as well as a used book sale and kids craft a related publication from the University area. of Georgia Press. Books are available for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. checkout from Live Oak Public Libraries, Trinity Lutheran Church, 12391 Mercy Blvd. liveoakpl.org, and for purchase through 19129254839. khanovich@hotmail.com The Book Lady Bookstore, 6 E. Liberty St. 6 p.m.

Savannah Comedy Review 11th Free and open to the public Annual Comic Battle telfair.org/los 8 p.m.

Club One, 1 Jefferson St. $10 FRIDAY 11.13 savannahcomedyrevue.com Horizons Savannah Virtual 8th Horizons Savannah is taking its 8th annual Grab a Bag for Kids event virtual with a live and silent purse auction for designer handbags, vacation experiences and more. Proceeds will benefit students needing community support due to COVID-19. Extended school closures are widening the achievement gap for under-resourced students. In response,

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Horizons Savannah has shifted its efforts to distributing laptops, iPads and providing Wi-Fi access to students to ensure connection to virtual learning. Participants may access the auction with a minimum donation of $30.

12:30 p.m. horizonssavannah.org

Virtual Lecture: To Tell the Truth Freely: The Life of Ida B. Wells

Annual Grab a Bag for Kids

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SUNDAY 11.15

Family Promise Outdoor Family Movie Night

Movie lovers can enjoy a show and some quality family time with an outdoor showing of The Adams Family. Attendees can bring chairs, blankets, and snacks or picnics to enjoy while watching the screening. The event is free with dona-

The Long River Home

7th Annual Honoring Our Veterans and First Responders Virtual Film Screening THU-SAT, NOON TO MIDNIGHT

Mountainfilm on Tour - Savannah will host a special virtual screening of documentary films in honor of Veterans Day on November 12-14, 2020, in partnership with Mountainfilm in Telluride, Colorado. Participants will have 48 hours to watch a series of documentary films online. Featured films include: Carving Joy, a documentary about a military veteran who took up carving to help with his post-traumatic stress disorder. The Long River Home, a short film that follows two combat veterans as they guide a blind Navy veteran and avid kayaker through the rapids of the Grand Canyon. Eddy’s World, a documentary showcasing a World War II veteran-turned-famous toy inventor. The Crown, a short film about Will “Akuna” Robinson, the first AfricanAmerican man to complete the Triple Crown of Hiking: the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. All films will be available on-demand from noon on Nov. 12 to noon on Nov. 14. Learn more at mountainfilmsav.org.

Free/Veterans & First Responders; $10/person; $15/family 912-344-1278. leslie@mountainfilmsav.org. mountainfilmsav.org/community-outreach/veterans-day/ tions welcomed to help support Family Promise’s mission of assisting homeless families with children in Chatham, Bryan and Effingham counties.

7 p.m.

Benedictine Military School, 6502 Seawright Dr. Free familypromisesavannah.org/

MONDAY 11.16

Tybee Island Farmers Market

Weekly 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 non-smoking and pet friendly. Located 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

TUESDAY 11.17

Whiskey Tasting Classes

Participate in an educational and exciting whiskey tasting class. Taste and learn differences between six different whiskey varieties. Reservations required.

7:30 p.m.

Congress Street Up, 220 W. Congress St. $53.50 americanprohibitionmuseum.com/ savannah-speakeasy

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

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Glance

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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NEWS FEATURE

Ghost Coast hosts BBQ & Blues to invite back the community

BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

brandy@connectsavannah.com

THE SWEET SOUND of the blues mingled with the aroma of BBQ, on Friday night, as Ghost Coast Distillery hosted a soft grand opening to invite the community back for the first time since mid-March.

The event included a free show, featuring the local favorite, Ben Kaiser Band, and a food truck serving the delicious Bowtie BBQ. “We love Ben Kaiser. He’s a regular musician here. His band’s awesome, so

Ben Kaiser Band

we definitely wanted to have him for our first weekend back. We, also, have a close

relationship with Bowtie so we’re happy to have them here too,” said Kelcie Beausir,

Ghost Coast Marketing Manager.

Ghost Coast’s BBQ & Blues did not act

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

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

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FEATURE

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OUR VALUES

Connect Savannah at its core is focused on arts and entertainment and the happenings in our community.

We are also a news organization with professional journalists who write about community issues and the people who live here.

The public has a right to know, and Connect Savannah is dedicated to keeping readers informed and aware of all that goes on in the community.

The pursuit of truth is a fundamental principal of journalism. But the truth is not always apparent or known immediately.

A professional journalist’s role is to report as completely and impartially as possible verifiable facts so readers can, based on their own knowledge and experience, determine what they believe to be the truth. That is often an ongoing pursuit as journalists work to uncover stories and follow those stories wherever

they lead, regardless of preconceived ideas.

The news that they report is separate from opinions shared in our labeled commentary, special columns, reviews and submitted letters to the editor.

The presentation of both news and opinion is designed to educate, entertain, inform and foster conversation.

We appreciate and encourage readers to share news tips with us, and to share any criticism and questions.

We are your comprehensive local news source for the arts, entertainment, music, and community events. We are here to serve you.

We are blessed to be part of the greatest country in the world and the freedom it bestows on its citizens and its press.

Find us on these platforms or reach out to our newsroom at news@ connectsavannah.com or 912-721-4378.

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

Bowtie BBQ

everything got shut down, so we released it in August instead. The silver lining in that is that our Master Bourbon got an additional summer to age, which was great,” said Beausir.

This year’s BBQ & Blues event was a “miniature second annual” to last year’s Bourbon, BBQ & Blues. Last year’s event was held to celebrate the release of Ghost Coast’s second bourbon which was combined with the 3 other bourbons the distillery curated in 2019 to create their new flagship spirit, the Master Bourbon.

“The first year was one of the biggest events we’ve had with almost 1000 people here. Of course, next year, we won’t be hosting a gigantic event if it’s not safe, but as soon as everyone can safely gather again, hopefully in April, we’ll kick things off with the Master Bourbon Music Festival,” said Beausir.

Overall, it was cheery night for guest and staff, alike. “I loved meeting the people and making them happy with the Bowtie Experience. Hopefully I accomplished that and can’t wait for the next opportunity!” said Frank Bacon, Sr., Bowtie BBQ Food Truck Captain.

It is noteworthy that some changes have occurred in Ghost Coast’s operation to comply with CDC standards. The new business hours are 12-8 PM on Thurs-Sat and 12:30-5 PM Sundays. In addition, masks are required to enter the building, tours are unavailable, and the normal capacity of 220 guests is limited to 75 for the safety of the community.

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EDITORIAL Brandy Simpkins, Community/Events Journalist brandy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4358 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Alex Neumann, Chris Sweat, Adriana Iris Boatwright, Brittany Curry, Jessica Farthing, Brittany Herren, Geoff L. Johnson, Lindy Moody, Jonathan Vasata, Taylor Clayton, Leila Scott

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alone in spicing up that evening on India Street. Service Brewing Co. was also open to provide booze, and everyone welcomed the new apartment complex, The Baxly, to the neighborhood.

Between Ghost Coast, Service Brewing Co., and The Baxly, vendors lined the streets, additional food trucks were present, and there were even street circus performances to get the socially-distanced crowd going. A portion of the proceeds from all goods and services sold went to the Human Society, who had adoption service available for anyone who attended the dog-friendly event!

Though Ghost Coast did not reopen its doors until last weekend, it had not left the community since closing in March due to COVID-19. FDA had released recipe guidelines for hand-sanitizer for craft distilleries to follow, and Ghost Coast began producing it swiftly after.

“We were doing discount pricing for healthcare workers (including staff at Memorial Health University Medical Center), prisons, schools, and the police department, said Beausir. “That’s what we were doing for the whole summer, up until yesterday. People would just pull up for curb-side pick up and get sanitizer and spirits.”

The event also introduced the company’s new flagship bourbon to those who haven’t tried it since its quiet release in August.

“We were supposed to do a grand release party for it in April, but two weeks before the party was supposed to happen is when

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NEWS COMMUNITY

Paul Grassey is right on time

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

BY CHRISTOPER SWEAT

6 Paul at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force (NMOTMEAF)

question before I’m learning about his life, work and passions.

Paul Grassey is a storyteller.

He starts by telling me the history of the AN SUV PULLS up to the front entrance museum, naming names and listing dates. of the venerable National Museum of the “We started this museum over 20 years Mighty Eighth Air Force in Pooler, as if ago,” he notes. “There were around 90 or it could be carrying any major dignitary so volunteers working here and a lot of us to a VIP event. A few seconds later, with a veterans around when we cut the ribbon. little assistance, out steps Paul Grassey, a Every one of them is gone now except for 97-year-old World War II veteran who flew me. I’m the last one.”

13 combat missions for the 446th BombardHe’s proud of this place and what it ment Group, 8th Air Force, and has been a means to him and countless others like volunteer docent at the museum since the him who want future generations to know day it opened. the reasons it even needs to exist, and the As we introduce ourselves with an elbow sacrifices that were made to make us the bump and masked, muffled nation we are today. greetings, his companSoon, a story almost a ion brings around a century in the making walker, and he grabs starts to unfold. it with a mix of conBorn on July sternation and 27, 1923 in Glens acceptance, but Falls, New announces “I York. Grassey only have this graduated because of an from Ridgeincident I had wood High chasing an ice School in 1941 cube across the and attended floor the other Virginia Tech day.”

Military School As we turn to (then VPI) through enter the museum— November 1942 closed to the public on when he enlisted in the day we chose to talk— the Army Air Corps. his voice booms in the “I talk a lot about my giant atrium. The walker 8th Air Army Air Force logo patch buddies. At the time does nothing to minimize the World War started, his stature as he is now just pushing it in we were in high school. We would all get front of him like a toy he doesn’t need. He together at friends’ to discuss what was walks tall, and confidently points out many going on in the country and the world. The of the plaques and memorials of men and war was raging all over the world, at high women who made the museum possible, speed. And we all wanted to get into the as if I’m not there to get to know one of service of our country.

Savannah’s most fascinating individual One Sunday we were in Ridgewood, figures.

NJ. This particular day, there were seven He leads the way to the enormous room of us talking about whether we should that houses scores of military aircraft, enlist or not. The father of two of my budincluding the B-17 Flying Fortress “City dies walked into the room and we asked of Savannah,” for which the museum is him ‘Mr. Dolan, should we enlist?’ And famous for restoring and showcasing. he told us he couldn’t make that decision Someone hits the lights as he enters the for us, but he said ‘Let me show you someroom, and within a few minutes a couple of thing.’ He went upstairs and came back chairs are set up in front of the large windown with pictures of World War I. He had dow. Settling in, I don’t even have to ask a been a member of the famous Lafayette

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Escadrille flying over Germany in World War I. We were really impressed, and hadn’t really known what this one man had done for his country,” he says.

It’s hard not to look around the room as he recounts, and notice the artifacts of war and freedom, imagining the mindset of young men so many years ago, who were willing to give their lives for this cause. A mindset Grassey attributes to character and courage.

“The next Sunday we were in the same house, and my buddies—his two twin stepsons—said, ‘wait till you see the old man.’

And he walked in the room. He had his Captain’s uniform on; he had his pilot’s wings; he had his Captain’s bars. He said ‘I’m leaving Tuesday. You guys can make up your own mind.’ There we were. He was our mentor. We all enlisted.”

But it wasn’t as easy as making a decision right there on the spot.

“My father didn’t want me to do it.

My brother had already enlisted. He had 60 hours of flying time when he was 24-years-old. They called my brother up, and in 90 days he was teaching Navy cadets how to fly an airplane.

I really was determined to get into the fight, so I signed up, but my father still wouldn’t let me go. I came home for Thanksgiving that year and said to my

Paul (bottom row, second from left) with his B24 crew before departure to England Paul in Basic Flight Training preparing to solo in a BT13

dad ‘Pop, you’re going have to sign these papers, because I’m going to be sworn in Monday morning and you have to have those papers signed. He got mad at me, but

he eventually signed. My father never got past sixth grade, growing up in the Depression, and he was afraid for me to go. I don’t know why. He probably thought I’d go out and get myself killed. But here I am at 97, still kicking around, right?”

Grassey enlisted in the Army Air Corps

to be a pilot—to “fly for his country,” he says. He received his wings at Stutggart, Arkansas, and was assigned to B24s. He received orders for the 446th Bombardment Group, 8th Air Force, Bungay, England, and flew 13 combat missions.

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Paul and Nancy with his poster at Betty Bombers restaurant Paul and Nancy celebrating Paul’s 96th birthday at the Landings Club

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

“I got to fly missions over Germany. You didn’t really know what you were going to run into. As the days went by, we got better and better at our business,” he notes.

He tells of long, hard missions and being in London, England, the day the lights came on after Germany was defeated.

His bio from the museum states that after the war and serving six years in the U.S. Army Air Corps, Grassey decided to return to school, where he graduated in 1948 from Lafayette College in Easton, Pa. Once he received his degree, he worked in the civilian sector with Burroughs Corporation in New York City for more than 20 years.

After retirement, Grassey and his wife, Nancy, relocated to Savannah. A few months after arriving, he was asked to attend meetings at The Mighty Eighth Air Force Historical Society. Grassey loved what the historical society stood for, so he decided to join the organization. As a member, he was able to watch the development of the Heritage Center Museum in Pooler, Ga. The Mighty Eighth Air Force opened their own museum on May 15, 1996, where Grassey served as a volunteer for 18 years and is now a board trustee.

Just last year, the country of France bestowed upon him its highest decoration, the Legion of Honor.

He traveled to France for the 75th anniversary of D-Day. He’s been interviewed by major media outlets all over the world at this point. And there is a message he always tells that he wishes would ring clear.

“I don’t know where we lost it here. But we really wanted to fight for our country, we were thinking we were fighting to 8 save the universe. And that’s part of why I

wrote my book. I wanted young people to understand the mindset we had.”

Paul Grassey is an author.

In his book ‘It’s Character That Counts” Grassey tells more of his story, and of his life before and after the war that shaped the most pivotal points in his century-long timeline.

“I’m going to give you this book. There’s a lot in here that needs to be shared,” he says as he flips through pages showing me photos that bring to life the words he’s been speaking to me for the past hour or so. The book is available at the museum’s gift shop, as well as in local libraries.

“But I want to make sure you see this one quote that I included in here that sums up why we wanted to enlist. It’s from President Franklin Roosevelt.”

As we find the page, he uses his finger to follow along and emphasize the printed words as he reads the quote aloud: There is a mysterious cycle in human events.

To some generations much is given.

Of other generations much is expected.

This generation of Americans has a Rendezvous with Destiny.

“I talked about this exact thing the other day when I was on a radio program with Savannah State University,” says Grassey.

“I’ve had a lot of interviews in my life, but the point I wanted to get across was if we didn’t work together, we wouldn’t be where we are today. We are one country needing to work together, just like we were back then.”

“Speaking of radio,” I add, “I hear you are quite the musician also.” His eyes light up and he lets out a booming laugh that

echoes through the room.

Paul Grassey is a singer.

Andy Steigmeier, a close friend of Grassey and the Executive Board President of The Birthplace Chapter for the Eighth Air Force Historical Society steps over to interject: “He’s always been an entertainer, you know. He was in shows in the war. He was instrumental in putting on shows for the soldiers. Paul will start singing at the drop of a hat,” he says, chuckling.

“At our chapter meetings, I’ll ask Paul to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance, then maybe a song. Without a thought he’ll just stand up and belt out ‘God Bless America,’ the full song. He’s not shy that way for sure. Paul is a one-of-a kind character.”

“I enjoy singing,” Grassey says pointedly. “When I was 90, I made a CD of all my favorite songs. It’s been very successful.

I’ve sold hundreds of them,” he says with a laugh.

He jokes that he’s been on most of the stages built in Savannah at this point, including a few sets with local bands and acts like The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra.

“I didn’t know that I had a voice. I mean, I’ve sung at some real bad places in New York City growing up. But I just enjoy it. I sang in shows when I was in the service.

I’ve just been doing it for so long now, and people keep asking me to, so I do, he adds with a laugh. “Anywhere there’s a piano and a microphone, I’ll go for as long as they’ll let me.”

With that, he sings a few bars of his favorite track on the CD “The White Cliffs of Dover,” made famous in England

by Vera Lynn who, he notes, lived to be 103-years-old.

There’ll be bluebirds over

The white cliffs of Dover Tomorrow, just you wait and see I’ll never forget the people I met Braving those angry skies I remember well as the shadows fell The light of hope in their eyes And though I’m far away I still can hear them say “Thumbs up!”

“He’s one of the last of the Greatest Generation,” says Steigmeier, “and one of the main things that is up to us as members of the next generations to do, is to follow in their steps by not only remembering their sacrifice, but understanding they blazed a trail for us, and now—luckily—we are just having to follow that trail in this great country.”

He glances over to Grassey. “Tell him how you end the song, Paul.”

Grassey pauses in thoughtful reflection.

“I narrate the song. I tell the story of what happened over there,” he says. “Then I finish the song, when it ends, I say ‘We’re home guys.’ And boy… That knocks the daylights out of them.”

As he sings more of the verses like a reverent hymn, I can’t help but look around at the menagerie of artifacts from bygone days and think of everything this song represents to him and others like him who made a life-altering, yet fulfilling choice so long ago.

It’s hard not to realize that this institution where we sit is the literal embodiment of Paul Grassey and his buddies, of the choices and achievements and passion that held a nation together in the toughest of times.

Paul Grassey is a legend. Paul Grassey is home, guys.

NEWS COMMUNITY

Annual Veteran’s Day Parade names Christina Gibson as this year’s Grand Marshal

BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

DESPITE MANY YEARS of dedicated labor proving her worthiness, Christina Gibson was still shocked at the news of being appointed as this year’s Grand Marshal of the Veterans Day Parade being held at 10 AM on, November 11, in Port Wentworth, GA. Each year, the Veteran’s Council of Chatham County is solely responsible for putting together the Veteran’s Day Parade, and this year they chose their organization’s secretary as the honorable leader of the event.

“I was surprised and humbled by the fact that I was even considered, yet alone appointed for this position. I am truly humbled, not to mention excited, about serving as the Grand Marshall this year,” said Gibson.

With COVID-19 in the way, this year’s parade planning started off as a challenge for the council. Due to safety regulations, the city of Savannah could not issue any permits, so the parade could possibly have been canceled, but Chairman Joe Higgins and the rest of the council was determined for a different outcome.

After reaching out to officials in Port Wentworth, GA, it was decided that the city would accommodate the event. Luckily, the continuation of the annual event meant that it was Gibson’s time to shine as this year’s parade dignitary.

Gibson joined the United States Air Force on her 17th birthday. After completing basic training in San Antonio, in 1977, and scoring high on the mechanical/electrical aptitude, she chose to complete military technical school for Avionics Systems Instrument Training. After completing her training, she began her duties working

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PHOTO BY BUNNY WARE

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

brandy@connectsavannah.com

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Discover the works of art that first introduced Savannah to Impressionism in the early 20th century.

FREE FAMILY WEEKEND NOV.13-15 CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

FREE ADMISSION FOR CHATHAM CO. RESIDENTS

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SAVANNAH’S HISTORIC DISTRICT VISIT TELFAIR.ORG FOR MUSEUM HOURS & GUIDELINES

Left, James A “Jimmy” Ray - Veteran of the year, right Christina Gibson – Grand Marshal PHOTO BY CHRIS GRIFFIN

on F-100 Fighter planes with the Air National Guard in Toledo.

“I served one year with the Ohio Air National Guard and two years in an Air Force Reserve unit in Charleston, SC maintaining avionics instrument systems on aircraft, but my time in the Air Force wasn’t as strong as what I’ve done for veterans since getting out of the military,” said Gibson.

Gibson has served as a member in the Veteran’s Council of Chatham County for over 10 years, and in 2012, she was elected to serve as the council’s secretary.

Chrissy’s dedication to record keeping of the many actions and accomplishments of Council has set a new standard for an organization that has served Chatham County veterans since 1937.

“My time spent in the military gave me a strong sense of discipline and a high regard for teamwork to get the job done,” said Gibson, and this was proven so through her

work ethic.

In addition to her work with the council over the last decade, Gibson has served as a member of many organizations including the American Legion for 19 years, the Adjutant of Post 36 for 5 years, the Catholic War Veterans of Savannah, and, in 2009, Gibson was initiated into the 40 & 8 Honor Society as the first woman member of the Savannah unit.

“Veterans support other veterans and you’ll rarely meet a member in one organization that isn’t a member of at least one other veteran organization,” said Gibson.

Grand Marshal Gibson requests that many people come out and support the hard work and bravery of the veterans while remaining safe! “I’d like to invite everyone to come out to Port Wentworth this year... We want everyone to enjoy the parade responsibly so please wear a mask and bring your hand sanitizer. We look forward to seeing you there!” said Gibson.

NEWS COMMUNITY

Marine turned photographer honors his military roots BEING A MARINE taught Alex Neumann lots of job skills, but it also set him up for success to run his own photography business.

“It gave me the focus and drive that I needed and the discipline to make decisions.”

Neumann’s military career started with an appointment to see an Army recruiter.

After waiting about an hour past his scheduled time, a Marine recruiter stepped in and asked him to just talk a little in his office while he was waiting. After the conversation, Neumann said he was sold on the Marine Corps and enlisted.

His training covered aviation ordinance and he served for nine years, including a deployment to Iraq.

“I worked with bombs, missiles, rockets and all the equipment that went with it.”

Working logistics, Neumann spent most of his time on base, but the Forward Operating Base, or FOB, that he was assigned was the northernmost outpost that the U.S. Military had, located two miles from the Syrian border.

Always a visual person, Neumann said he looked to find the beauty in the area.

“That was the first time I saw the Milky Way,” he said. “There was nothing out there. I woke up in the middle of the night and looked up. I pulled out my camera and tried to take some photos.”

Moving through the area, Neumann was stationed at Al Asad to store ammunition.

He pulled guard duty and befriended a desert fox that came by for food.

Neumann said that every night around midnight, the animal would check in for a snack, eventually getting within two feet of the Marines on duty.

‘Groundhog Day’

Neumann equated deployment as something to be compared to the movie Groundhog Day, getting up and performing the same tasks for 12 hours a day and going to bed, only to do the same thing again when he woke up in the morning.

With only a half day off, the days blurred together.

“I was just doing my job.”

On one occasion, Neuman said he was given the opportunity for leave and a plane ticket wherever he wanted, so he traveled with a friend to Thailand. He said had a whirlwind of experiences, including riding jet skis, seeing a giant golden Buddha,

“That was the first time I saw the Milky Way,” he said. “There was nothing out there. I woke up in the middle of the night and looked up. I pulled out my camera and tried to take some photos.” having an elephant walk over him and holding a baby tiger.

Neumann said he appreciated the order of the military. He said he learned to work within the system and that rules were put in place for a reason. As he neared the end of his military career, he also appreciated

the benefits.

Becoming a photographer

Thinking about moving back into the private sector, Neumann decided he wanted to pursue photography, a lifelong love. The GI Bill even paid for his college.

He said his mother was the first to foster his love of photography. On a trip to Puerto Rico when Neumann was about 12, she gave him his first real camera, he said. He keeps it on his desk to this day.

In middle school, he took pictures for the yearbook. “Everyone knew me as the photo guy.”

High school was more of the same. Neumann took a year-long photography work course and as a senior, became the photo editor of the yearbook. That volume won a national award for photography.

Neumann was stationed near Charleston at the weapons Naval station when he began to apply for college all over the east coast. He ultimately decided on SCAD, appreciating the laid back, easy vibe of Savannah, he said.

The Marines, however, weren’t quite done with Neumann. He received orders to go to Korea and was stationed there for about a year. His last day in the Marines was Dec. 22, 2018 and he started college in

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

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Pohang, South Korea

January 2019.

SCAD proved to be not only an educational opportunity, but set Neumann up with local internships that taught valuable skills, he said.

At Dynacraft, Neumann helped build the photography guidelines for products and he worked in the marketing department at Gulfstream as a photographer. He also started his business, AI Neumann Photography, while still a student.

“I specialize in commercial and advertising photography,” he said. “I do lifestyle photoshoots or work a product on location.”

After graduation, Neumann and a partner opened Real Estate Video Group, which is a photography and videography business focusing on the home market.

They are busy with the expanding sales in the area.

“We can have someone to the listing

in 24-48 hours,” he said. “The photos are done by the next business day. Our goal is to be efficient, low-cost and high quality.”

Neumann said he hasn’t forgotten his military roots. He is a member of the American Legion Post 135 and an inductee to the “Forty and Eight,” a historical service organization open to veterans and currently serving military.

Neumann said he uses his photography skills whenever possible.

“We are a community of brothers and sisters. We stick together. That philosophy of watching each other’s back is still true within the military veteran community.” https://aineumann.com https://www.alpost135.com https://www.worldwar1centennial.org/california-offices-and-organizations-rememberingww1/4097-the-40-and-8-boxcar.html

CULTURE VISUAL ARTS

Jewelry by Kathryn Riechert

Gallery 209 honors 2-D, 3-D Artists of the Month Kathryn Riechert

Riechert has been a partner with Gallery 209 for 12 years now.

She was raised on a farm in Florida and moved to Savannah to attend SCAD, where ALONGSIDE THE cobble-stoned River she completed a BFA in the Metals and Street, nestled snugly between a gourmet Jewelry Program in 2002. Riechert began candy store and a festive holiday shop, lies making and selling her own jewelry as the co-op, Gallery 209 – a provider of local soon as she graduated from SCAD. fine art in Savannah for the past 45 years.

After years of working in City Market Gallery 209 is just one of several estabCafé, while simultaneously teaching jewlishments that is part of the refurbished, elry-making classes at the City of Savanhistoric cotton warehouse of the 1820s. nah’s Department of Cultural Affairs, she The gallery has featured fine art, jewelry, now makes a living on selling her art alone. pottery and other crafts of local artists Riechert says that she makes her pieces since 1975. affordable so the joy they bring is easily Each month one artist from each catwidespread. egory of 2-D and 3-D art is recognized as Riechert’s upbringing influences many Artist of the Month. In this cheer-filled of the pieces she makes today. Her “slight month of November, Sue Nichols and obsession,” as she says, with cats and Kathryn Riechert are the talented artists chickens transfers to colorful, whimsical honored and recognized. pieces, with occasional moving parts, that The beauty of the 31-artist-owned, co-op aim to put smiles on speculating faces. gallery lies in the impeccable variety of the Hand-stamped lettering and messages can artists’ styles. often be found on the jewelry, inspired by The 2-D Artist of the Month, Sue Nichthe artist’s daily walks, and messages from ols, is an oil painter who often creates the news or radio that pull on her heart. highly textured and detailed art images of “My inspiration comes from everyday flowers and landscapes found in the Low life, as I seek to transform the beauty I find Country. The 3-D Artist of the Month is into the permanence of metal and stone.

Kathryn Riechert, who works predomiMy designs are often uplifting with posinantly with sterling silver, using traditive messages in the hopes that they can tional metalsmithing tools and techniques make the world a little bit brighter.” to create whimsical enameled jewelry.

Riechert’s process involves creating Contrary to the complete differences in enameled pieces by using powder glass process and product, both women crefused to copper and kiln. The enamel is ate brilliant art with vibrant colors that applied in layers and a variety of techconveys the joy of the artists to their niques is used to create the finished suraudiences. faces of the jewelry.

Occasionally, Riechert adds stones and

BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

brandy@connectsavannah.com

pearls, which she regards simply as colors, and the thin silver linings of wire are her pencil, forming permanent drawings to be worn and enjoyed.

Sue Nichols

Sue Nichols has been studying art relentlessly since the age of 16. With no formal education in art, the natural talent spent decades studying everything, and became a full time artist in 2003. Nichols has been a resident of the Southeast, moving back and forth from North Georgia to Miami, for the last 37 years. During that time, Nichols has painted and sold many art pieces in galleries and shows. Her work has settled in galleries in Savannah’s City Market since 2005.

“As long I can recall, I have had artistic abilities. By world standards, I am a selftaught artist, by my standards, I have been blessed by God,” Nichols said.

Many of her pieces include the beautiful, raw landscapes of the Low Country, which are quite popular in Savannah. Other pieces also include butterflies or birds hidden amongst the wisteria and flowers. She is inspired by everything, she said.

“The light, the beauty of the objects— it’s [Savannah] is just a wonderful place to live. It’s a beautiful place, and there’s inspiration all around.”

Nichols detailed, textured pieces attract viewers, enticing them to touch (though

they should resist the urge!). The artist said that her technique involves the use of a palette knife to create the raised texture.

Nichols often works on multiple pieces at once, focusing on one particular piece until it is finished. A 16x20” piece is usually complete in about 10-16 hours, which she breaks roughly into three hour increments to avoid weariness and ensure quality art.

At times, Nichols does Plein air painting, deriving from the French word meaning “outside,” while creating her landscapes or other portraits. When Nichols is not painting on site, she paints in her studio, challenging herself to recall scenes from her memory. She also paints from reference photos when necessary.

Nichols said she appreciates Artists of the Month because it provides the artists the opportunity to display their varying art styles, as well as the opportunity for increased sale – a bonus for any full-time artist.

Both of November’s honorable Artists of the Month seek to spread joy in their works, making the world a better place, through art.

“Painting is spiritual to me, it touches my being, it brings me joy and my desire is to share this with the viewer. As your eyes view the delights of my heart, may you experience a positive response,” Nichols said.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

Painting by Sue Nichols

13

CULTURE VISUAL ARTS

Human behavior, cross-cultural belief systems,

Peach face jug

and the color of yellow

BY NICOLE YOUNGBLUT

Charleston, South Carolina. Jiha Moon is currently being represented by Laney Contemporary. “I’ve been a fan of Jiha’s work for a while so we’re really excited to be representing Jiha now.,” says, director Susan Laney.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

LANEY CONTEMPORARY AND Atlanta-based artist, Jiha Moon invite you to mirror a pop-cultural artist introspective, Lucid Yellow—with more than thirty pieces—of exciting and colorful gestural paintings, prints, ceramics, and mask installations on display from Nov. 13 to Jan. 23 2021. A socially-distant, artist opening reception will be held on the lawn Nov. 13 from 4-9 p.m.

“My work is always influenced by my life. I feel like my life and my art cannot be separated. In this exhibition, you will see a lot of those emotions coming through.

With my techniques, color choices, I try to communicate with the viewers often, you can see metaphors in the work. I’m hoping to provide an opportunity to experience that,” says Moon.

As a Korean-American, Moon’s ideation of Lucid Yellow explores bold cultural stereotypes of the color yellow in America, and what it means to be an American.

“There are underlying themes that I am always interested in. How do we define Americans? So, when people talk about Americans, am I included or not? And that Olijug has been an ongoing conversation for a long time, my entire art career is (kind-of) based on that since I came to the US. I have my family here. My life and art are here, and it’s inseparable to me,” adds Moon.

Human behavior and cross-cultural belief systems such as religion, talisman, shaman rituals, and cultural symbols allude in her work. The newest addition to her collection of iconic imagery, among signature peaches and Twitter birds, is the evil eye.

“I want people to make eye contact with my work and the work is looking back at you. This is really the evil eye concept. You know, the evil eye is so evil you could be cursed but you could also protect yourself with evil eyes. I like that idea that has both meanings of protection, and dangerous curses, and mythology,” she explains.

Last December, Laney Contemporary presented Moon in a solo booth at NADA/ Miami 2019. Other notable shows this year include State of the Art 2020, at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas, and a group show (featuring important Lucid yellow 14 southern artists) at Halsey Institute in

Jiha Moon’s opening reception will be held on the Lawn at Laney Contemporary Fine Art Nov. 13, from 4-9 p.m., on display through Jan. 23, 2021, 1810 Mills B. Lane Blvd. Museum hours, Tuesday through Friday 11a.m. -5 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

For more on the artist, visit http://jihamoon. com/ @moonjiha For gallery information, visit laneycontemporary.com @laneycontemporary

MUSIC

Soundboard

SOUNDBOARD IS A FREE SERVICE - TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE SEND YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY TO SOUNDBOARD@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. DEADLINE IS NOON MONDAY, TO APPEAR IN WEDNESDAY’S EDITION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.

WEDNESDAY 11.11

LIVE MUSIC IN THE SOUNDGARDEN

LIVE MUSIC

Driftaway Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m.

Oak 36 Bar + Kitchen CC Witt, 7 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Starland Yard Whiskey & Wine, 6-9 p.m.

The Wormhole Open Jam, 9 p.m.

THU, NOV 12

TRIVIA & GAMES

Service Brewing Company Trivia Night with Daniel, 6:30 p.m.

THE ALTERNATORS

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Totally Awesome Bar Savannah Comedy Underground, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

Two Tides Brewing Company Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, second Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY 11.12

FRI, NOV 13

LIVE MUSIC

Coach’s Corner The Alternators, 7 p.m.

Cohen’s Retreat Munchies & Music, 5-9 p.m.

The Perch at Local 11 ten Cory Chambers, 5:30 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

MORGAN MYLES Morgan Myles @COACH’S CORNER

TRIVIA & GAMES

McDonough’s Family Fued, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG 11, 7 P.M.

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

The Wormhole Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Totally Awesome Bar Open Mic Comedy, 8:30 p.m.

DJ

Club 51 Degrees DJ B-Rad, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY 11.13 LIVE MUSIC

Barrelhouse South Groovetown Assault, 9 p.m.

Churchill’s Pub Jon Lee, 9:30 p.m.

Coach’s Corner Morgan Myles, 7 p.m.

Driftaway Cafe Gordon Perry, 6 p.m.

Island Breeze JAGGED EDGE, 7 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Brady Adams Duo featuring Andres Thomsen, 7:30-11 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Lyn Avenue, 7-9 p.m., Kenny Munshaw, 5-9 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Jody Jazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

River House Josephine Johnson, 7-9 p.m.

Saddle Bags Savannah Jimmie Allen, 8 p.m.

Service Brewing Company Bluegrass

By The Pint w/ Swamptooth, 6 p.m.

The Shrimp Factory Chip Staley, 7-9 p.m.

The Warehouse Kyle Shiver, 8 p.m.

Wild Wing Cafe Hunter Price, 7-10 p.m.

The Wormhole Xuluprophet w/ Special Guest Guns to Gallows, 8 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, 9 p.m.

Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

DJ

Churchill’s Pub Basik Lee, 6 p.m.

Club 51 Degrees DJ Fer, DJ Emalo, DJ Lil G, DJ BRad, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY 11.14 LIVE MUSIC

Barrelhouse South Groovetown Assault, 9 p.m.

Churchill’s Pub Oisin Daly, 6 p.m., Tony Brown, 9:30 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Laiken Love & The Fellowship of Love, 7 p.m.

Driftaway Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m.

Elan Savannah Subdocta at Elan Savannah (Sat, Nov 14th), 9 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar FreeSpirits, 7:3011 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Draucker, 7-9 p.m., Eric Brack, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Jody Jazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

River House Ricky Standard, 7-9 p.m.

The Shrimp Factory Stan Ray, 7-9 p.m.

The Warehouse Kyle Yardley, 8 p.m.

Wild Wing Cafe Eric Clark, 3-6 p.m., The Positions, 7-10 p.m.

KARAOKE

MONDAY 11.16 LIVE MUSIC

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Eric Britt, 7-9 p.m.

Bay Street Blues Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

Club One Super Gay Bingo, 5:30 p.m.

COMEDY

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY 11.15

Fia Rua Irish Pub Family Movie Night, 8 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC

TUESDAY 11.17

Club One Savannah Comedy Review 11th Annual Comic Battle, 8 p.m.

Collins Quarter at Forsyth Live Music, 3 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m., Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m.

The Perch at Local 11 ten Mary Kenyon, 5:30 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Kenny Munshaw, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Fabulous Equinox Krewe, 12-3 p.m.

Starland Yard evenpete, 6-9 p.m.

Wild Wing Cafe Ray Tomasino, 1-4 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Moon River Brewing Co. Trivia, 6 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES KARAOKE

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SAT, NOV 21

TRIBUTE-A CELEBRATION OF THE ALLMAN BROTHERS’ BAND

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

LIVE MUSIC

Barrelhouse South Emerald Empire, 9 p.m.

Plant Riverside District Aaron Lehrian, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Basil’s Pizza and Deli Trivia, 7 p.m.

Fia Rua Irish Pub Trivia, 7:30 p.m.

McDonough’s Trivia Tuesday, 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.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

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KARAOKE

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Robert Taylor played solo and with the Rhinelanders

BOOKED AND BRAVE

We Honor Veteran & Musician, Robert Taylor

BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

brandy@connectsavannah.com

VETERAN ROBERT TAYLOR served his country in more ways than one. As a soldier in the United States Army, not only did he serve his county, but he also served fellow soldiers by sharing his gift of music.

Taylor gives thanks to God and his mother, who made him play for an hour every day, for his musical talent and abilities. At the age of seven, he started accordion lessons, and the rest was history.

In 1967, Taylor enlisted in the army after auditioning for the 3rd United States Army Band in Atlanta. He began playing with combo at the NCO club with his new Cordovox Accordion, and he’s been playing it ever since. Since then, he has played in multiple settings within the military.

“While in basic training at Fort Gordon, Augusta, GA, I was placed in the 3rd Training Brigade Band, which was the only one in the Army, and played drums for my own graduation ceremony. On Nov. 3, 1968, I left for Vietnam. I played with the 1st Infantry Division Band for 9 months, and 3 months with the 1st Cavalry Division Band.”

Though Taylor thoroughly enjoyed playing music for his colleagues, that’s not all he accomplished while in Vietnam. Being

a soldier, of course, requires courage, commitment, and support to other battles.

“While in the 1st Infantry Division Band in Vietnam, I and another band member volunteered to fly door gunner on a huey helicopter because the gunners were getting very little rest. On our second flight, we came under heavy small arms fire and rocket fire, sustaining over 14 hits to the bottom of the helicopter. The pilot was wounded. Three crewmen received the Distinguished Flying Cross and me and my band buddy received the Air Medal for Valor.”

After returning from Vietnam, stationed with the 283rd Army band at Fort Benning, GA, Taylor played accordion with a combo at the Officers and NCO clubs. One of the main jobs of the marching band was to play for Officer Candidate School Graduation which turned out a big class of new 2nd Lieutenants every other week for Vietnam. “I felt bad every time we played those guys, knowing that a lot of them would not come back alive.”

Taylor had many more experiences playing with many other combos in the military, but soldiers were not the only ones that have been able to experience Taylor’s years of polished talent and bravery.

In 1970, Taylor moved to Savannah and joined the police department for several months before transferring to the Chatham County Police Department, which he

retired from after 20 years.

During that time and prior, Taylor continuously showed the southeast a good time. He did some solo shows, but he did many more shows with his bands, The Velvetones and The Rhinelanders, at bars and breweries, restaurants, parties, festivals, and more!

“While playing accordion at The Hofbrauhaus in Hilton Head, SC for 13 years, I had requests to play German musik for Oktoberfest events while we had The Velvetones, and were playing at Johnny Harris (for 15 years). I had a friend make a German Musik book for me 25 years ago and the Rhinelanders were born. One of our first Oktoberfest jobs was at Fort Stewart.

So the band was the Velvetones and the Rhinelanders at the same time. Of course, the band wears Lederhosen for German jobs,” said Taylor.

The Rhinelanders, played for over 25 years during the Oktoberfests in Savannah, SC, and Jacksonville, FL, bringing joy to many, during the festive season, for decades.

“My experiences as a musician taught me not to take talent for granted. The Lord gave me the talent to play beautiful music.

My mom who made me practice for one hour every day, made me perfect that talent. I am eternally grateful to both. My military experience taught me that if you want something bad enough you can do it.”

MUSIC THE BAND PAGE

EVENPETE @ STARLAND YARD

JIMMIE ALLEN @SADDLEBAGS

Rising country superstar, Jimmie Allen, returns to Saddle Bags Savannah on Friday, November 13. Jimmie’s current single, “This Is Us” featuring Noah Cyrus, is currently climbing the country music charts.

This show is for ages 21 and over. General admission tickets available at saddlebagsbar.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 | 8 PM

XULUPROPHET WITH SPECIALS GUEST GUNS TO GALLOWS @THE WORMHOLE

Come enjoy a wild evening at The Wormhole with two Savannah bands as Guns To Gallows opens the night with hot metal set. Then XuluProphet brings the psychedelic rock/ funk/ reggae vibes to finish off the show.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 | 8 PM.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

Party band favorite evenpete throws down Alt-rock, classic rock and country covers from the Black Keys, Cage the Elephant, ZZ Top, The Police, 3 Doors Down and others.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 | 6 PM - 9 PM

17

NEWS COMMUNITY

Scenes from annual Veterans Day banquet PHOTOS BY BUNNY WARE

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

THIS PAST SUNDAY veterans from over 25 organizations met for the annual Veterans Day at the American Legion 184 in Thunderbolt. A number of local leaders were in attendance, including Congressman Buddy Carter. Christina Gibson, the grand marshal for this year’s Veterans Day Parade, recieved a special honor from the House of Representatives, which was presented by Congressman Carter.

18

FOOD & DRINK EPICUROPEDIA

BLACK RIFLE COFFEE HONORS VETERANS, MILITARY WITH GREAT ROASTS

BY LINDY MOODY WITH IT BEING an election year that has been full of pandemic woes, it is often easy to lose track of what makes this country so

great – our veterans and the people whose rights they fought to ensure. The best way to celebrate such an important holiday like Veterans Day is to support local veteran owned businesses.

Chatham County has a plethora of businesses that are backed by our military veterans. Service Brewery, Brew Abey, Silver Line Productions and Black Rifle Coffee Company are just a few.

Black Rifle Coffee Company is a

premium small-batch specialty coffee roasting business that is focused out of Tennessee and Utah.

The company was founded to combine a love of coffee with a love of supporting our nation and its troops. For every cup or bag of coffee purchased, the veteran owned company gives back to our veterans.

As an everyday coffee drinker, I find there is no better or more convenient way to support those who served our country than buying from them. It is especially easy for Savannahians to drink coffee as a means of backing our troops because Black Rifle has two coffee shops in Savannah – one on River Street and one on Fort Argyle Road.

“Black Rifle Coffee Company opened up their first coffee shop here at Nine Line where we offer free coffee to all veterans, and active duty military. They also have expanded to Boerne, TX and Salt Lake City,” Kaila Donaldson, the content manager for Nine Line Apparel, told me.

For the coffee shops themselves, you will

conveniently find them attached to a Nine Line Apparel store. Customers can sit and enjoy their hot cup of brew or browse the store while they sip it.

For Black Rifle, the roasting process is just as important as supporting the military.

Donaldson explained, “They roast five days a week at their facilities in Manchester Tennessee, and Salt Lake City.”

As for sourcing the beans, she elaborated, “BRCC’s high-quality coffee beans are sourced from Colombia and Brazil.”

For serious coffee drinkers, like me, it is likely you know your roast, bean, and flavor preferences. If you are just getting started, go online to blackriflecoffee.com and take their easy coffee match quiz. The website breaks down the type of coffee that is ideal for how you brew it at home to how much caffeine you prefer.

My Black Rifle Coffee of choice is the Just Black Coffee Roast. It is nothing crazy.

Drinkers will find a well-balanced classic

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

The Nine Line store and staff. PHOTO BY NINE LINE PHOTOGRAPHER “MIGUEL MIGHTYGOODRIDGE”

CONTINUES ON P. 20 19

EPICUROPEDIA

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Black Rifle Coffe Shop. PHOTO BY NINE LINE PHOTOGRAPHER “MIGUEL MIGHTYGOODRIDGE”

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

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coffee flavor, not the cheap stuff from the supermarket, with a few notes of vanilla and cocoa.

On the more adventurous side is roasts like the Five Alarm, Fit Fuel and Murdered Out. Dark chocolate, cherry, molasses and a hint of smoke are the flavors featured in the Five Alarm Coffee Roast. For the Murdered Out, the name comes from its roast.

It is the deepest, darkest roast available from Black Rifle.

Fit Fuel is an ideal blend for a morning workout. The coffee is high in caffeine and mild in flavor that finishes with a bit of malt.

Light roasts include Gunship and Silencer Smooth. By applying a super precise roasting method, Black Rifle is able to achieve a smooth citrus backed Silencer Smooth coffee that goes down easy. Gunship blends Colombian and Central American coffee beans that are perfectly lightly roasted to achieve n velvety cup of brew.

There is decaf, cold brew and even espresso. The company has thought of everything. The list is long and only grows with each season. Currently, Black Rifle has a limited Basic Batch Coffee Roast that features this season’s favorite flavor – pumpkin.

In store, the Black Rifle Coffee Shop takes the premium coffee beans and turns them into something even better. There are signature sips such as the Betsy Ross, a mocha and raspberry latte that can be ordered hot or cold, or the Old Glory, a white mocha and blackberry latte.

A part of the menu is deemed “Next Level” with drinks like an Espresso Mule,

which may be my favorite specialty way to order Black Rifle, and a Honey Latte.

By combining freshly roasted and brewed express and refreshing and bubbly ginger beer, Black Rifle Coffee Shop is able to turn coffee into a light and crisp drink.

As a way to support another local cause, Savannah Bee, the coffee shop combines its signature espresso with steamed milk and the local honey. Accordingly Black Rifle dubbed it the Honey Latte.

Maybe navigating the crowds of River Street is not your thing. Black Rifle still has your back with their Coffee Club membership which gets you coffee delivered right to your door.

Donaldson broke it down, “Coffee Club membership guarantees discounts off retail pricing, free shipping on all coffee club orders, brewing at home instead of buying from those hipster coffee shops only increases your savings, exclusive deals from companies like Vortex, Camburg Racing, Sig Sauer, Kryptek, Federal -Premium, and Eberlestock. It’s convenient – fresh coffee delivered right to your door as often as you need it, so you never run out. Our dual roasting facilities in Utah and Tennessee mean you always get the freshest coffee -possible, no matter where you live in America, no cancellation or early termination fees, shipping frequency is easily adjusted, and veteran & service member support.”

During the holidays, for every bag of Black Rifle coffee purchases, a bag of the Holiday Roast will be sent to a service member.

EXCHANGE BUY. SELL. CONNECT. CALL 238-2040 BUSINESS RATES ADS RECEIVED BY 5PM FRIDAY WILL APPEAR IN THE WEDNESDAY ISSUE OF THE NEXT WEEK.

Announcements For Your Information Chimney Doctor Chimney Sweep Service, Patrick Johnson. Professionally trained chimney sweep. 30+ years’ experience. Serving Southeast Georgia. Wood stoves and Fireplaces. 912-865-2834

U-Pick Sweet Potatoes

Jobs Employment Wanted

$8 per 5-gallon bucket.

Bring Containers.

Randy DeLoach (912)739-4124 Evenings (912)282-4300 Days

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Duck Donuts Savannah is Hiring!

Fun, rewarding position available with the best donut shop in town! We are looking for friendly, energetic, smiling faces to join our team. Weekend and early morning availability are a must.

Must be 18 or older. Please direct all inquiries and/or resumes to Jonny Loa, cell: 646-301-8301 or e-mail: jloa@duckdonuts.com

Georgia Southern University invites applicants for the following vacancies on the Armstrong campus:

Food Service Worker - Armstrong-Galley JOB ID 221593 Production Chef - Armstrong-Galley JOB ID 221638 Maintenance Worker - Facilities Services JOB ID 221611 Staff Assistant - School of Nursing JOB ID 221613 Library Technical Assistant - Lane Library JOB ID 221353 Please visit the Georgia Southern University employment website and complete the application process at http://apptrkr.com/2053674

If You’re Reading This, So Are Thousands Of Potential Customers.

Call 912-721-4350 and Place your Classified Ad Today!

connect savannah

classifieds Reach Over 45,000 Readers Every Week!

• Real Estate • Vehicles

• Pets • Employment

• Miscellaneous • Garage Sales

Basic RatEs Real Estate Employment services announcements Garage sales Miscellaneous

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION NEWS, MUSIC, ART & EVENTS… EVENTS CALENDAR MUSIC AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS PHOTO GALLERIES BLOGS VIDEO CURRENT & ARCHIVE STORIES CONTESTS

CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM

$12 per week $14 per week $12 per week $10 per week $10 per week $10 per week

HOW tO PlacE an ad • call our classifieds department at 912-231-0250 • ads Must Be Placed By 11am On Monday Prior to Publication • all ads Must be PrePaid (credit cards accepted) • Basic rate includes up to 25 words.

VIEW ALL THESE ADS ONLINE Thousands of ads, available from your computer, any time, day or night. Don’t wait, get online today and find what you’re looking for! www.ConnectSavannah.com

The application process must be completed by the deadline to be considered. Georgia is an open records state. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodations under the ADA to participate in the search process should notify Human Resources: (912) 478-6947.

Georgia Southern University is an EEO/AA/ADA/Veteran employer.

GRAPHIC HELP WANTED DESIGNER Connect Savannah is seeking an amazing graphic designer with awesome print design and production skills with a healthy knowledge of web design. You’ll be responsible for working with several sales reps across a couple of newspapers to create fantastic ads in various sizes and formats (mostly for print and some for web), while logging and checking out ads. In addition, you’ll be lending your golden touch to editorial layout and design and various seasonal promotions.

Finally, you’ll be topping all that off by outputting print ready CMYK PDFs that don’t result in 2am calls from the printer, all while keeping a sane and calm approach to everything that comes your way.

Qualifications: At least a year’s experience with graphic design and print production, preferably in newspaper or magazine production. Top notch proofing skills. It’s a requirement and this sentence should be making you groan! An incredible ability to organize and prioritize multiple projects. Folders! You love organizing stuff in folders for future reference. Live in or near Savannah. You can’t phone (telecommute) this in! Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite 6. Familiarity with the print production process including working in CMYK color space. Attention to detail with knowledge of design fundamentals. Excellent communication skills.

You know how to explain technical issues to the non-technical and clearly express why certain design decisions makes sense. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Sometimes you gotta take direction and sometimes you gotta come up with great ideas and you know which is which. Proficiency in Windows.

Availability in early November 2020. Bachelor’s Degree (Preferred).

401 (K) • 401 (K) matching • Dental insurance Health insurance • Paid time off • Vision insurance Send cover letter, resume, at least 10 sample pieces in print ready PDF format, and at least three references to humanresources@morrismultimedia.com

Connect Savannah • Human Resources • MorrisMultimedia.com 27 Abercorn St., Savannah, Georgia 31401

COMMUNITY PHOTOS

PHOTOS BY RENEE LASALLE

200 Club Golf Tournament

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

TEAMS, SPONSORS, AND VOLUNTEERS gathered this past Thursday for a day of fun with a cause! All of the proceeds from this benefit went to the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire and its mission of supporting the families of our fallen first responders.

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COMMUNITY PHOTOS

PHOTOS BY RENEE LASALLE

Raising Spirits Benefit

CONNECT SAVANNAH | NOV 11-17, 2020

LOCAL SPIRITS company Ghost Coast Distillery and Athens-based Creature Comforts Brewing Company hosted “Raising Spirits” this past Saturday at The Gardens at Ships of the Sea Museum.

Music was provided by Of Good Nature and Little Strangers as people came out to this free benefit concert to help the local community struggling with COVID-19.

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wednesday Half off Boles of Wine thursday & Sunday Live dj | 6-9 pm Drink specials

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