Connect Savannah, March 31, 2021 by Connect Savannah

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THIS IS HOW I STAY CONNECTED “Captivating and creative, Connect Savannah keeps up with the local events and happenings in the area every week. With a local perspective, Connect offers an inside guide to all things arts, entertainment and popular news. This is how I stay connected in Savannah.” - Lauren

WE’RE REACHING THE LANDINGS. Connect Savannah recently started mailing every home at the Landings – all 4,600 of them! It’s our way of introducing the exciting new format and contents of Connect, Savannah’s premier News, Arts and Entertainment publication. We want to make it easy for everyone to read Connect! We’ve added new locations all over town – especially out in the fast-growing Westside and Pooler locations! 912.231.0250 | ConnectSavannah.com | 611 East Bay Street | Savannah, Georgia 31401

So many ways to save. Find tools and resources to help save money and energy. Georgia Power has energy-saving tips on everything from controlling airflow to adding weatherstripping. Plus you’ll have access to resources like online energy audits and My Power Usage to learn about your energy consumption. There are hundreds of simple ways for you to save energy – and saving energy means saving money. To learn more, visit georgiapower.com/save. ©2018 Georgia Power. All rights reserved.

SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE April 28th - May 2nd April 28thSavannah - May 2nd Trustees’ Garden, - Georgia Trustees’ Garden, Savannah - Georgia

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AT A GLANCE

HIGHLIGHTED PICKS FROM HOSTESS CITY HAPPENINGS THIS WEEK TO HAVE YOUR EVENT CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION IN WEEK AT A GLANCE, PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO WAG@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. INCLUDE THE EVENT NAME, DATE, TIME, LOCATION WITH ADDRESS, COST, WEBSITE ADDRESS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, AND A CONTACT NUMBER. THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS 5PM EACH FRIDAY BEFORE THE FOLLOWING WEDNESDAY’S EDITION.

WEDNESDAY 3/31

THURSDAY 4/ 1

Drunk Spelling Bee

Bingo! at Elks Lodge

Join El-Rocko Lounge on Wednesdays for an all new drunken scholastic event- Drunk Spelling Bee. Enter by purchasing three drinks at El-Rocko in between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. 10 p.m.-1 a.m. El-Rocko Lounge, 117 Whitaker St.

Kitten Bottle Feeding with HSGS

It’s that time of year again to kitten bottle feed with the Humane Society for Greater Savannah. If you have never bottle fed before this is the perfect class for you. 5:30-7 p.m. Humane Society for Greater Savannah, 7215 Sallie Mood Dr. mtohm@humanesocietysav.org

Tea at the Davenports’

Learn about tea traditions and experience an early 19th-century tea in the historic atmosphere of the Isaiah Davenport House Museum. 5 p.m. Davenport House 324 East State St. $18 adults, $14 children davenporthousemuseum.org/ events-calendar/

Trivia Night with Jess Shaw

Jess Shaw and Kevin Ryan will guide participants through an evening of trivia and self discovery at Service Brewing. Test your trivia knowledge while also competing in interactive challenge rounds to gain extra points. The first place team receives a $100 cash prize. 6:30 p.m. Service Brewing Company, 574 Indian Street. servicebrewing.com

Join Elks Lodge for Bingo on Thursdays and Sundays. Enjoy great family fun, good food at the snack bar and many chances to win cash. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Elks Lodge 183 Wilshire Blvd.

Theatre Workshop: Basics of Improv

Improv Theatre is hosting a theatre workshop- Basics of Improv. Participants will explore the main tenants of improvisation and will have the opportunity take part in an assortment of introductory games to encourage spontaneous creativity. Free registration online at savannahga.gov 7-8 p.m. Online only, none.

Mystery Painting Party

Join us Painting With a Twist for an evening out. Bring your friends, bring your family, or come alone and make friends. Everything supplied & no experience is necessary. This event is for those 18+ and our studio is BYOB. 7-9 p.m. Painting with a Twist, 513 E. Oglethorpe Ave. paintingwithatwist.com/studio/ savannah/event/2704368

FRIDAY 4/ 2 Bluegrass By The Pint with Swamptooth

Join Service Brewing for Bluegrass by the Pint every Friday featuring live bluegrass from favorite local favorite’s, Swamptooth. 6 p.m. Service Brewing Company 574 Indian Street.

Field Day at J.F. Gregory Park

Calling all k-5th grade girls! Little Toughies is hosting a field day at J.F. Gregory Park. Fun includes: 100m run, 200m run, 400m run, Softball throw, Bean Bag toss, and Soccer ball around the cones. 2-4 p.m. J.F. Gregory Park 521 Cedar St.

Neosublime at Sulfur Studios

Sulfur Art Services debuts “Neosublime”- a solo exhibition by Kathy Varadi. The exhibition is on display at The Sentient Bean and will be available for view during the shop’s operating hours. March 3-7 The Sentient Bean 13 E. Park Ave. fb.me/e/20inqdQ78

Oyster Roast on Skidaway Village Walk

Join The Village Bar & Grille for their annual oyster roast/ Enjoy live music, cornhole, lots of oysters, food and drink specials and more. The oyster roast will be held outside, so head out for some fun in the sun with your family and friends. 6 p.m. The Village Bar and Grill, 3 Skidaway Village Walk # A.

“Sculpture Garden” at Big Bon Bodega Big Bon Bodega is having an artist night titled “Sculpture Garden” featuring life size paper mache creatures, and paintings by Phil Musen and Clay Walsh. @bigbonpizza will also be there with a pizza pop. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing. 5:30-8 p.m. Big Bon Bodega, 2011 Bull St.

SATURDAY 4/ 3 Date Night & Stretch

Enjoy 1.5 hours of intimate stretching and breathing techniques with your partner. Strengthening your relationship and overall health. 5-10 p.m. Eb Thirty Eight Social Hall, East 38th Street.

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt

Head to Skidaway Island State Park for an Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt. Each egg will have a QR Code. Scan it with your phone and get the clue to where the next egg is hidden. Find the golden egg at the end and receive a prize bag. First hint: the first egg is where you check in for camping. 10 a.m. Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Cswy. $5 parking fee

Fire & Wine

Enjoy half off bottles of wine and fire pits in the courtyard. Purchase one of our s’mores kits (marshmallows included) for the ultimate fall experience. 6-9 p.m. Foxy Loxy Cafe 1919 Bull St.

First Saturday Hike

This moderately-paced, 3-mile hike will include a talk about the different ecosystems of the park. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water and insect repellant. Parking pass is $5. Visit website for more info. ﬁrst Saturday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Fort McAllister Historic Park 3894 Fort McAllister Rd. $2 912-727-2339

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

WEEK CONNECT SAVANNAH

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SAVANNAH’S PULSE

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 news and the about the people who live here. Connect Savannah is dedicated to keeping readers informed and aware of all that goes on in the community. 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 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.

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EDITORIAL NOELLE WIEHE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF noelle@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4356 BRANDY SIMPKINS COMMUNITY/EVENTS JOURNALIST brandy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4358

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Brittany Herren, Claire McMillan, Lindy Moody, Bunny Ware, Beth Stewart, Lauren Wolverton, Nicole Youngblut

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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

SUNDAY 4/ 4 Bingo! at Elks Lodge

Join Elks Lodge for Bingo on Thursdays and Sundays. Enjoy great family fun, good food at the snack bar and many chances to win cash. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Elks Lodge, 183 Wilshire Blvd.

Easter Dinner Entertainment Cruise

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WEEK

Celebrate Easter on the Savannah River. Join Savannah Riverboat Cruises for their annual Easter Dinner Entertainment Cruise. Boarding begins at 6 p.m., sailing from 7-9 p.m. 6-9 p.m. 9 East River Street. $79.95 per adult, $42.85 per child

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SAVANNAH TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY ALL OF APRIL

BOOK A TAILORED VISITORS’ EXPERIENCE PERFECT FOR SPRING

THE FASHION ISSUE MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2021

CONNECT SAVANNAH IS PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY

Above Ground Diamonds:

Twice the Diamond for half the price.

7300 Abercorn Suite A | 912-650-9757 | harkleroaddiamonds.com

Soul Sister Sunday

Hula + Hips + Healing hosted by the Sankofa House of Savannah. Dress comfortably and light and bright colors if you don’t have all white. Bring water, fruit and a journal. RSVP for address. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sankofa House Savannah, 1119 E 40th Street,. sankofahousesavannah@gmail. com

MONDAY 4/ 5 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 4/ 6 Stafford’s Tuesday Comedy Open Mic

The ghost of Savannah’s legendary open mic returns. Head out to the sequel to the open mic Hannibal Buress called “whack” and “please put that phone down”. All experience levels welcome! Come out and give us your best 5 minutes, or just come and laugh at us, we like it. 8:30-11:45 p.m. Stafford’s Public House, 306 W. Upper Factor’s Walk.

Toddler Tuesday at Oatland Island Wildlife Center

Explore the wonders of nature with all kinds of wild fun for your wee ones. This week’s theme is “Calling All Alligators” Pre-registration required. 10 & 11 a.m. Oatland Island Wildlife Center 711 Sandtown Rd.

NEWS

COMMUNITY

SINCE 2001 – BREWING COFFEE & COMMUNITY

All of April to be Earth Day Savannah 2021 BY NOELLE WIEHE noelle@connectsavannah.com

THE SENTIENT BEAN

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

A moment is captured at a previous year’s Earth Day Festival. PHOTO COURTESY OF EARTH DAY SAVANNAH

a collective of virtual and small, in-person events, including weekly Savannah Tree Foundation tree walks; Ogeechee Audubon Society bird watching in Forsyth Park; and the Forsyth Farmers Market’s Community Spotlight, focusing on Earth Day with Caretta Research Project, Free Little Seed Library and Evergreen Explorers. “We’re going to be taking and showcasing all of what the nonprofits are doing on one platform,” Morton said. Events will be happening throughout Chatham County in this month, including a North Beach Clean-up by Tybee Clean Beach Volunteers; the Children’s Museum’s “Mobile Garden” will be in Garden City and on the east side of Savannah; and the University of Georgia Marine Education Center on Skidaway Island will be hosting free and paid events all month long.

“We are giving all of the nonprofits an opportunity to share with the community what they actually do,” Morton said. Also a Savannah Artist, Morton’s Community Engagement Project, the M anifesting Mobile,held pop-up events April 1 and April 6 at Center Parc Credit Unions at WalMart in Pooler and on Hwy 17. Morton is partnering with Hello Neighbor and HART Initiative for community popups on Sundays in April. More events are scheduled. “Our goal is to empower people to get involved,” Morton said. “Partnering with the nonprofits, I am able to give action to the community so that we can collaborate because it’s a lot more fun when we work together and easier. And, there is a lot of work to be done.” Information about all of these events can be found at earthdaysavannah.org.

Coastal Care Partners vaccinates over 1,000 SCCPS teachers, staff, over 9,000 residents BY NOELLE WIEHE noelle@connectsavannah.com

COASTAL CARE PARTNERS is making vaccination scheduling more convenient, as COVID-19 vaccines become more readily available. “This week, we have worked with Village Walk Pharmacy to open up more appointments at the Skidaway Clinic and provide Pfizer vaccines to Chatham County residents ages 16 and older,” said Amy and Scott Pierce, co-owners of Coastal Care Partners. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced that Georgia residents ages 16 and older would be eligible for the vaccine beginning last Thursday. “We are now scheduling appointments for Chatham County residents meeting

the Georgia Department of other vaccination sites in Public Health’s criteria at recent weeks, including vachealthyskidaway.com,” Scott cination clinics at several Pierce said. Savannah-Chatham County In addition to offering vacPublic Schools, where they cines at the clinic, My Nurse vaccinated more than 1,000 Now and Coastal Care Partteachers and staff. ners are available to come The company continues to area businesses for onsite to work with Dr. Jason Convaccination clinics. ley, owner of Lo-Cost Phar“We know that schedulmacy and Skidaway Village ing can be a challenge for Pharmacy, on these various Amy Pierce prepares people who work full-time, to administer a vaccine efforts. which is why we offer onsite dose. PHOTO COURTESY OF As of March 23, they visits for local businesses,” COASTAL CARE PARTNERS had administered more Scott Pierce said. than 9,300 COVID-19 Local businesses interested in learning vaccinations. more about an onsite vaccination clinic can contact Scott Pierce at 912-999-1967. For information, visit coastalcarepartners. Coastal Care Partners has traveled to com or mynursenow.com.

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

THE SAVANNAH-CHATHAM Sustainability Coalition has established Earth Day as a monthlong celebration this year. The new tradition to will be titled: “Earth Day Savannah Month.” Joanne Morton, executive director and creative expression strategist with the Earth Day Savannah Team, said this year, since there wasn’t going to be an Earth Day festival, the team put together a calendar of events supporting Earth Day celebrations. “We came up with idea of doing a monthlong calendar and all the nonprofits were ecstatic about it,” Morton said. “We have over 22 nonprofits offering events in the month of April, and most of them are free.” Morton said she got to know representatives of so many nonprofit organizations in the area through running the festival that she knew something could still happen that people would be excited about. “We can’t just ignore all the environmental work that’s being done in the area and also the importance of education,” Morton said. This will be a sustainable and safe way for businesses and environmental nonprofits to connect with the public and strengthen the environmental network in the Savannah community. This monthlong celebration will feature

NEWS

COMMUNITY

Members of the Patel family and representatives of Dewitt Tilton Group, Sharad Patel, left, Damini Patel, Kinnaree Patel, Renuka Patel, Sarmista Patel, Bhupendra Patel, Mukesh Patel, Arvind Patel, Chris Tilton, Mary Kathryn Griffin and Aaron Cradduck break ground on a new Berwick retail building in Savannah. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEWITT TILTON GROUP

Company breaks ground on new Berwick retail location

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

BY CLAIRE MCMILLAN

DEVELOPMENT IN Berwick continues to grow with the groundbreaking of a new project for the Dewitt Tilton Group, a leading commercial construction company in the Southeast. The unique ceremony included a blessing of the ground by Owner Mukesh Patel and members of his family at the site of the new retail location. Chris Tilton, president and co-principal of the Dewitt Tilton Group, was pleased that the sun was shining on their new project. “It was a very special day because we had about 14 straight days of rain and that was the only sunny day,” Tilton said. The new building will be home to two retail outlets standing at 22-feet tall and covering 7,000 square feet. Neighboring the Berwick Marketplace, the new build will have to follow strict guidelines in order to align with the rest of the area. “It is very unique in the fact that it is an outparcel of Kroger on Berwick, so the exterior design is very intricate,” Tilton said. “It’s got stone masonry, brick, stucco, parapet walls; it’s got a drive-thru window and canopies. The exterior is going to look phenomenal, it’s got a lot of steel in it and a bar joist and a TPO roof. It’s got a lot of nice details to it.” Tilton began the Dewitt Tilton Group back in 2014 with co-principal and longtime friend Andrew Dewitt, who he met while attending Benedictine Military School. Their company offers clients assistance and expertise in every aspect of a project from start to finish. “We sell a process,” Tilton said. “Come talk to us and we will design it and we will get your permits for you. We’ll do all that while you go do the things you do every day.”

Outsourcing the design process can prove to be a much longer ordeal for those looking to build and includes hiring an architect and civil, mechanical, structural, plumbing and electrical engineers. “That’s why we do it all in house,” Tilton said. “We can typically crank [the design] out in eight weeks.” Talk of the project between Patel and the Dewitt Tilton Group began back in 2018, but plans had to be postponed due to the pandemic. Now, back on track and about 30 days into building and the steel infrastructure being installed, the project is expected to take about seven more months to complete. Moving into the space will be an owneroccupied liquor store that will be about 5,700 square feet. The other remaining 1,300 square feet will possibly be occupied by an ice cream shop, according to Tilton. “What goes better than liquor and ice cream?” he said. The new retail outlet will be located in a busy area off Ogeechee Rd., surrounded by a Kroger supermarket, Starbucks, Subway, McDonald’s, a UPS Store, Great Clips and more. “There’s a lot of traffic in here and it’s really going to benefit from a retail standpoint for this community,” Tilton said. When asked why he thought the Dewitt Tilton Group was awarded this project Tilton said “We have a reputation for getting it done.” The new Berwick Retail Building will be located at 30 Berwick Blvd. The Dewitt Tilton Group is located at 119 Canal St. Suite 106, Pooler. Visit dewitttiltongroup.com or call 912-777-3404.

NEWS

MILITARY

Above: Lt. Col. Steve Bolton, Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander, addresses members of the media March 19 at Hunter Army Airfield about the significance of aviation in Savanah. PHOTO BY NOELLE WIEHE Left: Members of the U.S. Coast Guard speak about aviation in the area March 19 during a media day on Hunter Army Airfield. PHOTO BY NOELLE WIEHE

From cameras to chinooks Hunter Army Airfield hosts local media to experience aviation firsthand BY NOELLE WIEHE noelle@connectsavannah.com

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Doutrich speaks to media members March 19 during a media day on Hunter Army Airield. PHOTO BY NOELLE WIEHE

lived, thrived and then deployed all over the world,” Bolton said. “Army aviation has really been part in parcel of our military here in Savannah going back over 80 years.” Hunter Army Airfield currently has every force represented, except for the Space Force, Bolton said, making it “… almost a joint base.” “What we wanted to do was showcase some of the varying missions and varying branches of the military on the installation to really give the community an idea of what it is that we do here, specifically focusing on the aviators,” said Daniel Malta, Hunter Army Airfield public affairs representative. Media representatives were broken into teams, where they were assisted by soldiers and Coast Guardsmen as they operated simulated aviation vehicles. Connect Savannah was placed in and trusted to fly a CH-47 F, or cargo chinook simulated aircraft. Other representatives were put into a UH-60, UH-60 L, UH-60 M and an AH-64 E or attack “guardian.” Chief Warrant Officer 2 Katie Petrosky an aviator

pilot with 2nd Battalion, 3rd General Support Aviation Regiment, spearheaded the instruction in the chinook, including reacting to malfunctions her fellow pilot, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Steve Barton, 2-3 GSAR, would put on her aircraft for training purposes. “If we have actual emergencies come up, we address those here as opposed to being surprised the first time we get them in the aircraft,” Barton said. The two spoke of their mission later in the week where their unit would aid in moving buoys back into the ocean for the Coast Guard at a local island. “The nice part of being here in Savannah, especially specifically on the airfield, we have a wide variety of people we can work with,” Barton said. Representatives also met with service members of the Coast Guard to learn about why they joined, what a normal day looks like and see static displays of various aircrafts. “It’s very important to us that we are able to tell our story,” Bolton said. “We are an integrated part of Savannah.”

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

SAVANNAH RESIDENTS ARE surrounded by components of aviation, oftentimes seeing military aircrafts conducting training or aiding in missions within the community. The aviation service members are deeply integrated into air operations necessary for rescues and more regular tasks which make them an integral part of the Coastal Empire. Service members and the public affairs office of Hunter Army Airfield welcomed media representatives from around the Hostess City to participate in a day of experiencing aviation through the instruction and aid of activeduty soldiers and service members. “I appreciate you all taking the time to come find out about our community here,” said Lt. Col. Steve Bolton, garrison commander for Hunter Army Airfield. “We have a number of tenant units on this post that all have a variety of missions.” Hunter Army Airfield, before it was Hunter, was the birthplace of aviation in Savannah. It was named in 1940 for Frank O’Driscoll Hunter, a WWI flying ace and a native of Savannah. “This has been a place where Army aviation has worked,

FOR MY FAMILY I’m COVID vaccinated. “I chose the COVID-19 vaccine because of my family. (My mom) was part of the reason because she was like, ‘OK, I’m going to get mine,’ and they consider me a caretaker, even though she’s 74 and looks like she’s 54 and vibrant and spunky. But I also just wanted to go ahead and get it. I wanted to be proactive in that regard and get it handled.”

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

— Calonda Boyd, Savannahian, Community Advocate

SPREAD THE FACTS NOT THE VIRUS

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EPICURIPEIDA

Cool treats for the summer Finn & Quinn brings artisan ice cream to Savannah BY LINDY MOODY

LAST WEEK BROUGHT the first day of spring and a stereotypical Savannah summer heat wave with it. As all good Savannahians know, cool treats in the summer months are the key to beating the heat in the southeast’s outdoor sauna — the Low Country. From homemade thrill pops on your bicycle to braving long lines downtown for some creamy relief, locals know every trick in the book when it comes to swatting the steamy weather while tickling our sweet tooth. However, in the last few years, Savannah has become much more focused on locally-owned and operated eateries, and the market for “the place where the locals go” for delicious dog-day delights has been kind of bleak. Fortunately for us, the trials and tribulations that went along with COVID-19 and the citywide shutdown — and the boredom that ensued for many — had a drastic impact on the ways that some of our crafty and talented neighbors have spent their time. Like so many others over the last year, Monique Silen was searching for a way to cope with the changing world. Her search resulted in the discovery of a new passion; for Silen, the passion she discovered was her love for frozen cream. She told me, “The end of last year, I bought an ice cream machine and I just got really curious and interested in ice cream. I thought it would be really fun to make homemade ice cream.” Silen said it all really started with her thinking it would be great if Savannah had a small batch ice cream place; a place people can get a good quality ice cream, “ ... local, of course.” The result of her work during the last year was her new artisan ice cream brand: Finn & Quinn. Silen rolled out the red

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

carpet to her new business about a month What is better than a homemade brownie? ago almost as if an omen to the upcoming A homemade brownie paired with refreshsweltering and sticky six-month Savannah ing cold ice cream. That is the concept summer. behind Silen’s creation, she explained. Silen’s very first cream experimenta“For the brownie I wanted to use a tion was classic really good qualvanilla bean. ity chocolate. After getting That was my comfortable whole thing. with her craft, Who doesn’t love and receiving chocolate? As approval from far as brownies, her friend taste I already had a testers, she recipe for a good branched out brownie that we into one of her make. Just like most popular all of my recipes, flavors: Roasted I wanted to make Banana. The sure you taste flavor pays homthe flavor and it age to her roots, is not an extreme “I am originally sweetness.” from Panama, It was no small Central Amerfeat to come up ica. I would say with a vegan that growing up option, Silen says, there, there are I “I did so many don’t know how tests. Vegan ice many ice cream One of Finn & Quinn’s most popular flavors, cream is hard. shops and flavors Roasted Banana . PHOTO BY LINDY MOODY I remember I that you can get. just kept playThat always was in the back of my mind.” ing with it, tweaking stuff, and changBy roasting the bananas, which caraing things here and there. I was making melizes the fruit’s natural sugars, Silen is very classic ones, chocolate, and I made a able to intensify the flavor of the fruit. The strawberry one. From that I would take second thing adding such a buttery fruit what people liked the most.” The base to ice cream does is make it even creamier of her vegan ice cream is created with a than it would be with just milk. The result handmade cashew milk and coconut milk. is a densely flavored and velvet smooth Currently her go to available vegan flaripe banana ice cream. “With the roasted vor is Perc Coffee. The past has included banana, I wanted to make sure it was not vegan options like Peanut Butter and extremely overpoweringly sweet. I wanted Dark Chocolate Flakes. you to taste the banana but still have the The rotating ice cream flavor is where background notes of cream and fresh Silen gets creative. Just this past week she milk,” Silen says. introduced a brand new limited flavor— At any given time, Finn & Quinn carCookie Dough. Previous limited and/or ries four to five variations of ice cream. one-time pint options have included Hale The brand is a small batch, which means Tea Matcha and Salted Caramel. smaller quantities with higher quality. A small ice cream freezer and attenTwo house standards, a vegan option, dance at pop-up events around Savanand unique or new flavor always grace the nah is only the start for Finn & Quinn. As rotating ice cream menu. Silen continues to develop her ice cream Every single pint is made simply and repertoire, she also is working towards with straightforward ingredients. There her ultimate dream of a brick-and-mortar, are no preservative or unnecessary addismall-batch local ice cream destination. tives. You will taste only what you are Until then, stop by Kayak Kafe to grab supposed to with ice cream: milk, sugar, a pint to go, or scoop after a meal. Each and some natural flavorings. Egg yolks scoop gets Finn & Quinn that much closer are what lend the extra creamy texture to to becoming Savannah’s newest top ice Finn & Qinn’s cream. According to Silen, cream parlor. “I want you to taste the freshness of the Currently, you can shop the small batch cream. The whole idea was to taste the ice specialty ice cream at 5002 Paulsen St. cream and say, ‘Oh! I can tell this is homemade.’ I do not add any additives or any For the most up-to-date flavors and where sort of emulsifiers to make it last.” to find Finn & Quinn, visit instagram at The Chocolate Brownie is another sig@finnquinnicecream. nature and steady flavor of Finn & Quinn.

Styled in Savannah

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Photography by Jeremiah Hull + Attic Fire 12

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STYLED IN SAVANNAH For a more structured, masculine style, try a summer suit. This white suit by designer Sabina Musayev pairs great with sandals and a crop top, creating a classic, yet unconventional look. The best part about a summer suit? You can mix and match the pieces. Throw the jacket over a graphic tee and denim shorts, and you’ve got a whole new outfit. Check out Connect Savannah’s full summer style guide, featuring some of our favorite pieces from local stores, on the following pages.

Lauren Wolverton, Lilli Belue and Caitlin Anthony. PHOTOS BY JEREMIAH HULL

Clothes: Stonelords Shoes: The Printed Peach, Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store Clutch: ANA A

IT’S GOING TO BE A HOT SUMMER: SHOP LOCAL AND KEEP YOUR WARDROBE COOL WITH CONNECT SAVANNAH’S SUMMER FASHION GUIDE BY LAUREN WOLVERTON lauren@connectsavannah.com

After a summer of tie-dye lounge sets and oversized T-shirts in 2020, it’s time for a wardrobe refresh. In 2021, we’re going bold with bright colors, mixed textures and tons of confidence. Enter Stonelords in Savannah’s Design District, and

you’ll find all of the above. Owner Roz Morris Jr. offers stunning pieces from designers all over the world that are sure to stand out in a crowd. These Zayan The Label silk dresses are perfect for a Savannah summer because they are breathable and light, but still glamorous and eye-catching. Style a breezy summer dress with sandals, like these gold Lilly Pulitzer pairs from The Printed Peach. If your style is more edgy, try pairing a dress with black combat boots. 13

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Orange Bowtie Joseph’s Clothiers Pink Tie Joseph’s Clothiers Linen Khaki Pants Joseph’s Clothiers

STYLES BY LAUREN WOLVERTON PHOTO BY HUNTER MCCUMBER

Blue Plaid Jacket Joseph’s Clothiers

Linen Khaki Jacket Joseph’s Clothiers

White Button-down Shirt Joseph’s Clothiers

Blue Button-down Shirt Joseph’s Clothiers

STYLED IN SAVANNAH

Earrings Morgan Rae Boutique Orange Heels The Edition Shop Nude Dress Morgan Rae Boutique Neon Lace Dress The Editon Shop Tan Heals Terra Cotta

STYLE TIP: Formal wear doesn’t have to be a little black dress. At your next summer wedding, play around with color. Go with a bold main piece, like this royal blue jacket, or bring the fun with pops of color in your accessories, like these bright orange heels. 15

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CULTURE

STYLE TIP: Whether you keep it simple or go for a crazy print at the beach this summer, choose a swimsuit that makes you feel confident. Make sure to wear an SPF or use sunless tanning lotion to get that summertime glow.

Yellow Sunglasses Mamie Ruth

Denim Shorts The Edition Shop

Swimsuits Sayler Made

Beettan Sunless Tanning Lotion Mamie Ruth

STYLED IN SAVANNAH

Printed Button-Down Shirt Joseph’s Clothiers Leopard Swim Shorts Sayler Made Striped Swim Shorts Joseph’s Clothiers Bigfoot Swim Shorts Joseph’s Clothiers Checkerboard Sneakers Clockwork

CULTURE STYLE TIP: It’s going to be hot this summer, so when you head to the farmer’s market or to a music festival, go for light fabrics. Try a cotton graphic T-shirt paired with funky jewelry or your favorite sneakers. If it’s chilly at night, rock a white denim jacket.

Lavender Geode Necklace M. Liz Jewelry Savannah T-Shirt Mamie Ruth

Turquoise Necklace M. Liz Jewelry

Floral Skirt Mamie Ruth

White Denim Jacket Mamie Ruth

Straw Heels Terra Cotta

Jungle Print Shorts Mamie Ruth

STYLED IN SAVANNAH

Blue Graphic T-Shirt Clockwork White Graphic T-Shirt Clockwork Slip-On Sneakers Clockwork Black Shorts Clockwork Printed Button-Down Shirt Clockwork White Sneakers Clockwork

CULTURE

Green One-Shoulder Top The Editon Shop Rhinestone Top Morgan Rae Boutique Leopard Sandals Morgan Rae Boutique Tie Tank Top The Editon Shop Cream Shorts The Editon Shop

STYLE TIP: Summer nights in Savannah will be slightly cooler than the afternoon sun, so pull out your light blue jeans and pair them with a glitzy tank top. If sparkles aren’t your thing, try a textured top or structured shorts for a chic date night look.

STYLED IN SAVANNAH

STYLE TIP: A dress with statement sleeves will make your brunch selfies totally Insta-worthy. Pair it with sneakers so you can easily walk around with that to-go mimosa!

Green Dress Morgan Rae Boutique

Beaded Bottle Earrings Morgan Rae Boutique

Sneakers Terra Cotta

Beaded Clutch Morgan Rae Boutique

Blue Rope Dress The Edition Shop

White Denim Dress Morgan Rae Boutique

FOOD & DRINK

BARTENDERS, BARS, COCKTAILS

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

BY FRANK RICCI

AMONG THE MANY symbolic meanings of triple 5 is that big change is coming soon. Savannah typically has its last cold spell in March, but as spring arrives warm weather is a big, albeit predictable, change. For the sake of local business, it would be great to see throngs of tourists make their way here. That would be a big change to celebrate. Who doesn’t want a recovery of bachelorette parties and their adorbs matching t-shirts all over downtown? These and more are inexorably tied to perhaps the mightiest of all Savannah institutions, drinking. We do it right here, and we should be proud of it. Additionally, the finding a new friend while having a drink at a Savannah bar is almost as reliable as the impending heat and humidity. The variety of establishments is so broad, you will find one or more that you love, or you just don’t like spending time in bars. To our municipal credit, we even let you walk around vast parts of the city while consuming your delicious adult beverage. Savannah assumes you’re a responsible adult, so why shouldn’t you? As we head into spring, five bartenders at five popular bars share their thoughts on the subject, each offering a cocktail recipe that pairs well with warmer weather, sunny skies and tribes of women in matching t-shirts.

BARTENDER:

Matt Garappolo

Bar: Pinkie Masters, 318 Drayton St.

BARTENDER:

Jules Houghton

Bar: El Rocko, 117 Whitaker St. “Springtime day drinking means I might lose my job,” Houghton laughs. “Walking around with a cocktail, great grub everywhere and no bugs yet.” She sums up the onset of roadie culture simply: “it means freedom.” Splitting her time between the El Rocko and the legendary Pinkie Masters, Jules knows the Savannah scene better than most. She’s excited that Atlanta’s New Realm Brewing Company is opening a distillery and bar across the street from El Rocko at the former scene of the Savannah Spirits Chophouse catastrophe. “It would be great to get that back-and-forth energy The Jinx and Hang Fire had,” she said. Two of her favorite bars in town are O’Connell’s Irish Pub, 42 Drayton St., “the ultimate hole in the wall;” and Six Pence Pub, 245 Bull St., “such a beautiful bar, and the food is great.” A 20-minute drive from El Rocko lands you at Houghton’s favorite recent discovery and a perfect location for spring drinks, Bubba Gumbo’s, 1 Old US Hwy 80, on Tybee Island’s Lazaretto Creek. It has “local fish right off the boat, cheap drinks and a cast of characters,” Houghton said.

After five years running one of America’s iconic dive bars, fixing problems from the previous owner that you don’t even want to know about, Matt has a focused take on what drinking in the spring means. “Gin … gin and tonics, ice cold light beers and Mexican beers,” is his prescription. Before taking the reins at Pinkie’s, Matt won awards for world-class Old Fashioned preparations while running the bar at the dearly departed Sapphire, one of Savannah’s best fine dining restaurants whose quality standards were astronomical. What’s new at Pinkie’s these days? “The new thing is everything’s the same. We’re open every moment we can be,” he said. On his way home, Garappolo likes to stop at Lone Wolf Lounge, 2429 Lincoln St., a pitch-perfect recreation of the “Wisconsin grandpa bar” the owners envisioned. He also lauded the recently opened Common Thread, 122 E. 37th St., for their interesting cocktails and excellent food. “Try the small plates, they’re all great,” he said. On the Southside, Garappolo offers a yingyang recommendation: Jerry’s Lounge, 1209 E. Montgomery Cross Rd. This bar offers pool, darts, incredible value and the best cheeky sign messages in town. The old school lounge vibe contrasts well with the lively dive scene at Captain’s Lounge, 8414 Waters Ave., a fiveminute stroll away.

THE RECIPE:

Coochie Cutter THE RECIPE:

Goombay Smash Two parts white or gold rum One part coconut rum Splash of orange juice and a squeeze of fresh lime Top with grenadine Shake and serve over ice

1 oz. 1970 vodka – local brand ½ oz. orange juice over ice Top with Eastcider Blood Orange cider A trend develops here as Garappolo’s Coochie Cutter includes a clear spirit, citrus and ice, similar to Houghton’s offering. If her Goombay Smash sounds intriguing, Pinkie’s usually has a slushie version of it. As with all Pinkie’s slushies, go slow or have bail money ready.

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BARTENDER:

Kellyé West

Bar: Artillery, 307 Bull St. To Kellyé West of the emphatically upscale Artillery, drinking in the spring conjures thoughts of cocktails that are “light and effervescent, with a floral profile and a nice balance of sweet and citrus.” Her nearly poetic observation matches the gorgeous interior of Artillery. It’s definitely the fanciest bar on this list — and possibly in the entire city — but it’s as welcoming and friendly as Savannah itself. This is where you come to break up the monotony of whatever kind of dive, neighborhood, sports or karaoke bar funk you might find yourself in. When you do, be sure to dress for the occasion. Artillery has an upcoming spring cocktail menu that West is putting her mark on. One libation features lychee tea, while others are still being tested and refined. “I created them to match the season,” she said. Like Houghton, Kellyé also extols the virtues of daytime drinking. “There’s no rush to do things before it’s too hot out, it’s an easygoing season,” she said. She’s a regular at Savoy Society, 102 E. Liberty. “That’s my go-to, for sure. I also love the Lone Wolf.”

THE RECIPE:

Artillery Negroni 1 ½ oz. London dry gin 1 oz. Cocchi Americano ¾ oz. Bruto Americano Orange twist Served on the rocks “It’s like a Negroni without the sweet red, instead it has a floral profile,” West explains. For beer-shot-highball zealots, Cocchi Americano is a quinine-flavored aperitif wine and Bruto Americano is a domestic bitter liqueur rich in herbs and botanicals.

“Anything with mezcal is a spring cocktail for me,” said John Stuart of the tiki-themed Water Witch in the Starland District. As the more complicated agave-based liquor grows in popularity, John is doing his part to spread the good word. Once dismissed as simply “smoky” tequila, he is finding new and interesting ways to get it into your belly. Water Witch recently added Josh’s latest cocktail, the Banana Spliff, to the menu. While the name may emphasize smoke, the flavor is unexpected. It blends mezcal, banana liqueur, bourbon and bitters, served like an Old Fashioned over a large cube. Protecting trade secrets keeps Josh from revealing the proportions, but my assessment concludes it’s two parts delicious and one part awesome. You’ll enjoy watching it being made as a combination of hickory, chicory, alder and cherry wood are smoked at the bar before infusing it in the liquid. If you’re not yet tired of hearing about it, Stuart also loves Lone Wolf Lounge. Other favorites are Savoy Society and Moodright’s. He makes special note of Blade and Bull, an indoor axe-throwing range on location at Southbound Brewery, 107 E. Lathrop Ave., where you can “get a pitcher and throw some axes.” How this isn’t already the most popular thing in Savannah remains a mystery.

THE RECIPE:

Smoke Show 1 ½ oz. Slane Irish whiskey ½ oz. Banhez mescal ¾ oz. lemon juice ¾ oz. simple syrup Shake and pour over ice Top with Barritt’s Ginger Beer Spring has arrived, and whether you’re up to the task of mixing up any of these ﬁne cocktails at home or content to have a happiness delivery professional make one for you, we Savannahians are fortunate to have such options. The establishments mentioned here just scratch the surface of this big cocktail party that doubles as a city, and it takes effort to get out there and not ﬁnd yourself a good time. It’s easygoing season, so take advantage.

BARTENDER:

Anthony Mastropolo Bar: Sea Wolf, 106 S Campbell, Tybee Island

The drive to Tybee Island from the middle of downtown Savannah is an easy, breezy 25 minutes. Visually, it’s a world away, but beach towns have a bar culture of their own. A newer addition to Tybee is Sea Wolf, the unexpectedly ambitious beach bum cousin of the exceedingly popular Lone Wolf Lounge. Drinks in the spring mean “crushing a really refreshing white wine or gin cocktail on a patio; maybe tequila and some citrus,” to bartender Anthony Mastropolo. Besides the location, the other major difference is Sea Wolf offers a surprising menu of very interesting selections. “Oysters, champagne and hot dogs is a new and interesting concept,” he said. “We did a Pepsi challenge to pick the hot dog. It’s wagyu beef from a Texas supplier.” It also may be the best hot dog in the area, and a great excuse to cruise out there and have one of their excellent cocktails. Back in civilization, Mastropolo is also a fan of – you guessed it – Lone Wolf Lounge. And at this point, who isn’t? He’s also a fan of The Wyld, 2740 Livingston Ave., a perfect locale to enjoy “a frozen painkiller while watching dolphins, weather permitting.” A review of historical meteorological data confirms that spring weather in Savannah typically permits. Anthony also cites Common Thread as “my new favorite for fine dining,” and heaps praise upon Cotton and Rye, 1801 Habersham St. “Zach [Shultz] is a great owner,” he said. “Both are reliable spots for great drinks, food and service.”

THE RECIPE:

Mezcal Last Word Equal parts: Mezcal Green chartreuse Luxardo Marachino - plus a LM cherry Lime juice Served up in a coupe

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Josh Stuart

Bar: Water Witch, 2220 Bull St.

FOOD & DRINK

SPRING

A group makes a toast on the beach over a picnic set up by The Confetti Experience. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CONFETTI EXPERIENCE

Natalie Jones, owner of The Confetti Experience, sets up a picnic in a garden off E. Broad St. Her company offers weekend experiences catored to their desired theme. PHOTO BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

CUSTOM EXPERIENCE, COMING RIGHT UP

Confetti Experience cultivates tailormade weekend experiences for visitors BY BRANDY SIMPKINS BRANDY@CONNECTSAVANNAH

FOR SUCH A small city, there’s so much for visitors and locals alike to explore in Savannah, but who has time to find it all? Whether you’re an out-of-towner or a local Savannahian looking to have a memorable weekend in the city, The Confetti Experience has got you covered. “Our whole business is to create custom and unique experiences that feature local businesses, that’s our main thing,” said Natalie Jones, owner of The Confetti Experience. Jones moved to Savannah from southern California in 2017. She said that as a Cali24 fornian, she knew nothing about the East Coast, but one of the first things she noticed

Natalie Jones, owner of The Confetti Experience, sets up a picnic in a garden off E. Broad St. PHOTO BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

shortly after she arrived, roughly two days after her own wedding, was the amount of bachelorette groups that make their way through the city. Early in 2020, Jones decided that she wanted to help curate experiences for those groups that come to have a good time in the hostess city. Jones said that she was aware of the stress that is put on both Brides and Bridesmaids to put together an amazing experience before that special day. “I’ve been in 10 weddings and I’ve been a bride, so I know,” Jones said. “If it’s your bachelorette party, don’t worry about anything.” Like most recently established businesses, Jones experienced the difficulties of starting a business in a COVID-19 pandemic world, but as many restrictions are lifted and the weather warms up, Jones is cranking it up a notch to provide some fun Savannah experiences this spring, including an upcoming partnership with the Alida Hotel. The Confetti Experience offers many flexible options to make sure the weekend is tailor-made for each specific group. Jones said she starts by asking the groups what type of experience they would like to have. Casual? Exquisite? Nightlight? She also inquires about the number of people in the group and the budget per person so that each group gets exactly what they’re looking for. Jones not only suggests local eateries, but she also offers local event planners and photographers to meet with the groups and capture their experience. “Patronizing local businesses is one of our values,” Jones said. A key feature of The Confetti Experience weekend, which is often offered as a standalone experience, are the picnics. Jones sets up picnics, rain or shine, at Tybee Island Beach, at Forsyth, in backyards, or even in-home if requested. She says that every set up is differently designed, based upon what patrons would like to see. Jones said each picnic is catered and delivered by the local businesses and she provides complimentary fruit and mineral water. The groups only have to show up. Jones said she found out about many of the hole-in-the-wall dining spots from local foodies who have explored the city extensively to find the best spots which don’t usually pop up on billboards. “Hanging out with people who weren’t originally from here that have started exploring extensively was eye-opening,” Jones said. Jones said based on her past work experiences, which involved managing large groups, she knew that she was a talented event coordinator. It was the feedback from groups she had catered to that confirmed she was on the right track. “We had a group in August that had no idea of anything to do,” she said. “After the weekend was over, they said ‘We had so much fun. There’s no way we could have planned this ourselves.’ When they expressed how grateful they were, that’s when we knew planning these experiences was something we needed to focus on.” Vist The Confetti Experience’s Instagram, @theconfettiexp_sav for details or to book.

FOOD & DRINK

COMMUNITY

Chamacos Tacos and Surf is reopened with more retail and room for live music. PHOTO BY NOELLE WIEHE

CHASING THAT ‘VIBE’ The veggie taco and carnitas taco are two of several traditional mexican tacos offered on the menu at Chamacos Tacos and Surf. PHOTOS BY NOELLE WIEHE

Chamacos Tacos and Surf expands within Butler Ave. location BY NOELLE WIEHE

Chamacos Tacos and Surf will sell their hot The recently renovated restaurant will feature expanded retail including surf gear and sauces with their expanded retail. Chamacos merchandise and activities for kids inside the business.

If you tried to walk into the taco joint on Tybee Island in the past few weeks, you may have left sans taco and met a closed door. No one called in sick and there was not a fire, although you could clearly see there was some wreckage inside. Chamacos Tacos and Surf on Butler Ave. received some big-time renovations at the hands of its owner and his family and business partners, according to Clay Culver, the “surf” contributing owner of the retail store and taco resturant. “We’ll be growing the games and the outdoor setting,” Culver said. The restaurant opened in 2019 under the three partners: Frank Bucci who is behind the tacos, Culver who brought the surf portion of the business, and their “silent partner,” Mike Hall. Now, Chamacos Tacos and

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

noelle@connectsavannah.com

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COMMUNITY ‘TACOS’ CONT.. FROM PAGE 25

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Surf is taking off and giving these men something to be proud of on the small beachside community of Tybee Island. “We all came into this with our own expertise,” Culver said. The team envisioned a playground for kids inside, while their adult parents could

partake in margarita sipping and enjoy live music outside. The inside space features a model skate park complete with skateboard ramps and a tiny skateboard for kids to play with, a projection screen to play movies and a chalkboard for kids to sketch creatively on the wall. Culver said he features movies which are

family friendly, but nostalgic to his childhood, such as “The Goonies,” “The Princess Bride” and the occasional surf movie such as “Endless Summer” and “The North Shore.” The restaurant has also expanded their retail to allow their customers, local or tourist, to leave with a little piece of their beloved Tybee taco and surf place. They will sell

their mild, medium, hot and extra hot sauces in bottles, logoed Chamacos merchandise, gift sets, and surf gear, including locallymade boards –Step brand and Underground Boardworks. The shop is the only one to offer locallymade surfboards, crafted by Jim Stephens who lives just off the island, Culver said. “I’ve got a board shaper, he’s been shaping in this area for 25 years,” Culver said, noting Stephens, now of Wilmington Island, had also shaped in Maui for a number of years. “He’s really, really good.” Chamacos serves authentic tacos, while also serving up a little something extra on their weekly specials. Those can be found on the dry-erase-board portion of the menu, as it rotates at least weekly. Clay recommends the carnitas, but said he does favor the veggie taco. Stuffed with zuchinni and topped with an optional heaping topping of feta cheese, there is good reason. “Good drinks, cold beer, good tacos; just simple, simple, simple,” Bucci said. Bucci began and now still owns a successful taquaria in Tamarindo, Costa Rica he started in 2017, now run by his brother-in-law. “I always wanted to live and work on a beach, ever since I was 18,” Bucci said. He came into Chamacos with a menu and a playlist. The owners are open to suggestions on what to add to their menu, but when asked if he took suggestions on songs to add to his playlist, Bucci replied: “Never.” Bucci said he came here with a playlist of about 600 songs he insisted would play at the restaurant. The playlist consisted of ska, punk rock, punk rock covers, reggae and things you wouldn’t imagine, he said, adding that the songs were the “vibe” he wanted while cooking in the restaurant. “It’s just the music that I like,” Bucci said. Live music at Chamacos Tacos and Suf starts on Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. and they hosted their first movie night, where they showed “The Fabulous Mr. Fox,” this past Friday. Culver predicts the retail and inside activity center should be completed in the next three weeks. “We’re just having fun,” he said. In the weeks to follow, he intends to bring in local small businesses to set up shop on site, such as vintage clothing, potted plants, or produce trucks as pop-ups on some weekends. “It’ll support another small business and it’ll create almost like a little marketplace here,” Culver said. “We’re trying to go off the vibe, you know?” Chamacos Tacos and Surf is located at 1311 Butle r Ave. For events and details, visit them on Instagram @chamacostacos.

MUSIC

The four-piece ensemble DOTS has been playing together, in varying capacities, since 2015. PHOTO COURTESY OF DOTS

DOTS spotted in Savannah: Popular indie-pop band to make live, post-pandemic debut with new music Artists coped with the pandemic in a variety of ways. In Savannah, we saw many bands use the downtime to write and record, while some prioritized solo IT WASN’T JUST massive music festivals projects. Others opted for a semi-permaand big-scale tours that were impacted by nent – we hope – hiatus to reflect and posthe coronavirus pandemic. As cities began sibly adapt and transform. In the case of to take the necessary steps to contain the Atlanta-based, indie-pop band DOTS, forspread of the virus, smaller acts began merly stylized as DOT.S, the pandemic put to experience the changing landscape the brakes on a year that was meant to be of live music amid postponements and spent touring. However, despite the drascancellations. tic change in plans, DOTS never stopped BY BRITTANY HERREN

spinning their wheels. “Practicing, recording and writing never stopped,” said DOTS bandleader Ryan James. “We’ve been practicing this entire time.” DOTS hasn’t played a live show in over a year. Their last performance was at Savannah Stopover in March 2020. So, to be returning to Savannah 13 months later for a show on, April 6 at Victory North is quite apropos for the group’s first, postpandemic debut.

“It’s the longest I’ve ever gone without playing live in my lifetime,” explained James. “It’s going to be a year’s worth of energy in one show.” It’s energy that Savannah is thirsting for and if history is any indication, DOTS will deliver. After all, they are frequently dubbed one of Atlanta’s best live acts and according to James, the show is going to be an expo of mostly new music that has yet to be “tested” in front of a live audience. “Normally, we test all of the new music out in front of strangers and that didn’t happen this time around,” James said on the impact of the pandemic. According to James, every live show with DOTS is a new experience because they really take in the reception of each song and finetune the music and the show based on its reception. Tuesday’s show will be an experiment of sorts, which is fitting considering the band’s brand of Depeche Mode-esque synth-pop, which is empirical in nature anyway. DOTS has spent the last year recording several-albums worth of new material that, based on released videos of new cuts recorded at Standard Electric Recorders Co. in Decatur, continues to be danceable, kinetic rhythms and melancholic melodies that are ambitious and imaginative. While the videos don’t come close to matching the energy of the group’s live acts, which are as intimate as they are full of fanfare, according to James, it was their best effort at getting as close to live as they could amidst the circumstances. “You can do live sound performance from a living room on an iMac, that’s fine, but it’s not what we wanted to do,” James explained of his vision for the series of videos that you can watch by clicking on the link in their Instagram bio @dotsmusics or on their Facebook page at @dotsmusic. Multiple new songs are showcased via the video series, but for James, of the batch, his favorite is “Being Born.” As a listener, there’s an obvious progression from the band’s usual dreamy tones. “Being Born” is strewn with indiscriminate sounds that while alone may be aimless, land just right under James’ vocals that carry the song. Lyrically, and through the sonics that resonate a gloomier than usual energy for the group, it’s a song that stands out as a possible new direction that takes on feelings of melancholy, pushing previous directions of effervescent bliss into uncomfortable, yet welcomed new places.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

FEATURE

Judge for yourself on April 6 at Victory North. Doors open at 7 p.m. and admission is $10. Capacity will be limited in light of social distancing efforts and masks will be required. As a bonus, Savannah favorite 27 Donna Savage will be opening.

CONNECT SAVANNAH MUSIC

SOUNDBOARD

WHO IS PLAYING WHERE THIS WEEK WEDNESDAY 3/31 LIVE MUSIC

Driftaway Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m. The Wormhole Open Jam, 9 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

El-Rocko Lounge Trivia with Jules and Chris Grimmett, 9-11:30 p.m. Service Brewing Company Trivia Night with Jess Shaw, 6:30 p.m. Starland Yard Music Bingo, 7 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

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

THURSDAY 4/ 1 LIVE MUSIC

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

SUN/

TRIVIA & GAMES Bar Food Trivia Night, 8 p.m. McDonough’s Family Feud, 7 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Karaoke Night, 8 p.m. The Wormhole Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

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

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Club 51 Degrees DJ B-Rad, 9 p.m. Top Deck Sunset Deck Party, 6 p.m. VICE Lounge + Mojito Bar Latin Night with DL Cesar, first Thursday of every month, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY 4/ 2 LIVE MUSIC

Churchill’s Pub Chip Staley, 6 p.m.; Jon Lee’s Apparitions, 9:30 p.m. Coach’s Corner An Evening with Jason Courtenay & Jared Wade, 7 p.m. Congress Street Social Club Three Star Revival, 10 p.m. Jazz’d Tapas Bar Paul Kempkes, 7:30 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m. River House Stan Ray, 6 p.m. Service Brewing Company Bluegrass By The Pint with Swamptooth, 6 p.m. The Shrimp Factory Thomas Claxton, 6 p.m. Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m. The Warehouse At Sundown, 6 p.m. Wild Wing Cafe Andrew Gill, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

PS Tavern Beer Pong Tournament, 10 p.m.

KARAOKE

Bay Street Blues Karaoke, 8 p.m. Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Karaoke Night, 9 p.m. Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

EMBER CITY @COLLINS QUARTER AT FORSYTH, 2 P.M.

Club 51 Degrees DJ Fer, DJ Emalo, DJ Lil G, DJ BRad, 9 p.m. VICE Lounge + Mojito Bar DJ Primal, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m.

SATURDAY 4/ 3 LIVE MUSIC

Churchill’s Pub The Mandrakes, 6 p.m.; Hitman Blues Band, 9:30 p.m. Coach’s Corner Bad Company Experience, 7 p.m. Congress Street Social Club Bottles and Cans, 7 p.m. Ghost Coast Distillery Jacob Evans, 1 p.m.; Jacob Evans, 1 p.m. Jazz’d Tapas Bar Whiskey & Wine, 7:30 p.m. Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m. River House Ricky Standard, 6 p.m. Service Brewing Company Eric Culberson Blues Band, 6 p.m. The Shrimp Factory Austin Neal, 6 p.m.

Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m. The Warehouse Jason Bible, 2 p.m.; Anders Thomsen trio, 6 p.m. Wild Wing Cafe The Positions, Heavy Honey, 1 & 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Blueberry Hill Pool Tournament, 2 p.m.

KARAOKE

Bar Food Karaoke Night, 10 p.m. Bay Street Blues Karaoke, 8 p.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m.

SUNDAY 4/ 4 LIVE MUSIC

Collins Quarter at Forsyth Ember City, 2 p.m. Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m

Ghost Coast Distillery Logan Thomas, 2 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Roy Swindell, 7 p.m. Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m. Tubby’s Tank House (Thunderbolt) Bucky & Barry, 1 p.m. The Warehouse Thomas Claxton, 6:30 p.m. Wild Wing Cafe The Free Spirits, 1 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.

MONDAY 4/ 5 LIVE MUSIC

Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

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

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS Fia Rua Irish Pub Family Movie Night, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY 4/ 6 LIVE MUSIC

Nickie’s 1971 Roy Swindell, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Basil’s Pizza and Deli Trivia, 7 p.m. Fia Rua Irish Pub Trivia, 7 p.m. McDonough’s Trivia Tuesday, 7 p.m. Oak 36 Bar + Kitchen Trivia Tuesday, 9 p.m. Savannah Taphouse Trivia, 7 p.m. Starland Yard Trivia with Chris Grimmett, 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE

Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Stafford’s Public House Comedy Open Mic, 8:30p.m.

SOUNDBOARD AND BAND PAGE ARE FREE SERVICES - TO BE CONSIDERED, PLEASE SEND YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY TO SOUNDBOARD@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. DEADLINE IS NOON FRIDAY, TO APPEAR IN WEDNESDAY’S EDITION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.

THE BAND PAGE

JACOB EVANS @ GHOST COAST DISTILLERY

Local singer/songwriter Jacob Evans, known as a member of Lulu The Giant and most recently as a solo artist in his own right, will be playing his special blend of indie soul and folk Saturday at the equally legendary Ghost Coast Distillery. Evans has nearly 600 monthly listeners on Spotify and while he’s only been in the Savannah music scene for a short time – in comparison to some tried and true regulars – he’s proven to be a leading talent. SATURDAY, APRIL 3 | 1 PM

OPEN JAM @ THE WORMHOLE

DR. K @ JAZZ’D

Local singer, songwriter, composer and bassist Paul Kempkes, otherwise known as Dr. K, will be bringing his big band sound, small combo, chant music to Jazz’d Tapas Bar on Friday night. You’ll likely be able to catch a few songs from his new album, “The Fundus Among Us.” FRIDAY, APRIL 2 | 7:30 PM

VOODOO SOUP @ CONGRESS STREET SOCIAL CLUB

Round out your weekend with a dose of Voodoo Soup on Sunday night at Congress Street Social Club. Lead by legendary bassist Eric “Big E” Moore, their fusion of funk, jazz, soul and rock is full of contagious energy and they are undoubtedly one of the best live music experiences in the city. SUNDAY, APRIL 4 | 10 PM

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Be the first to hear up-and-coming, local musicians at Wormhole’s locally famous open jam. Whether you are a solo act, or a full-piece band, the stage is yours to showcase your chops. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31 | 9 PM

FOOD & DRINK

The outdoor beer garden at Silver Bluff Brewing Company make the brewery a great day-trip destination for Savannah beer fans. PHOTOS COURTESTY OF SILVER BLUFF BREWING

Silver Bluff Brewing Company offers craft beer, community fun in Brunswick

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

BY BETH STEWART

The doors at Silver Bluff Brewing Co. in

30 Brunswick.

A beer is poured for a patron at Silver Bluff Brewing Co. in Brunswick.

IF YOU’RE A craft-beer lover with a day trip or a short jaunt down I-95 in your future plans, you may want to set your sights on historic downtown Brunswick’s newest awardwinning gem, Silver Bluff Brewing Company. Just about an hour away from Savannah, Silver Bluff features a taproom, brewery and outdoor beer garden. They host a First Friday event every month with live music, food trucks and block-party fun making them a prime destination for a day-trip from Savannah. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. and incorporate everyone. “Anytime we have a big event, we include all the local businesses, restaurants and bars and we close down the street to include the community,” said Ally Moline, co-founder of Silver Bluff Brewing Co. When choosing the location, Moline explained they wanted to embrace the existing buildings in the historic area and revitalize local businesses. “Historic downtown has been on the verge of a renaissance for the last 25 years and we knew it would take something big to push that through,” Moline said. “It’s so beautiful and so quaint, and we felt drawn to it.” Local resident and craft beer enthusiast, Joshua Hickman said he looks forward to attending more events at Silver Bluff Brewing Company. “The First Friday event has local vendors in the beer garden along with food trucks and pop ups,” he said. “It’s important to know Silver Bluff takes pride in community and community involvement. They’ve helped a lot of restaurants and businesses by inviting them to participate in events like First Friday. It’s been a catalyst in the growth of downtown Brunswick.”

FEATURE

SOUNDGARDEN EVENTS

FRI., APR. 2

PHOTO COURTESY OF SILVER BLUFF BREWING COMPANY

With brothers Jeff and Kevin Coyle, Moline and her husband Chris co-founded Silver Bluff Brewing Company. They focused on staying local while embracing the support offered through the craft beer industry, and a partnership with the Savannah Distributing Company felt like a perfect fit. “We specifically chose them because they are not only amazing people who specialize in craft beer, but they are local to coastal Georgia,” Moline said. With over 12 craft beers to choose from and seasonal hard seltzers, one of the best sellers is already standing out nationally. Silver Bluff Mexican Lager put them on the craft brew map last year, winning the silver medal for International Style Pilsner at the 2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship. “While making hop-bursting pale ales, hard seltzers and hazy IPAs allows our brewing team to flex their creative muscles and gives our customers lots of diversity, two of our top selling beers are the most traditional: the Hefeweizen and Mexian Lager,” said Head Brewer Brodie Pierce. He attributes their popularity to the approachable and flavorful profiles. Silver Bluff Brewing Company offers large indoor and outdoor areas to enjoy all of the diverse brewed options with friends and friends, even those of the furry variety. The beer garden, fashioned after traditional Bavarian biergartens, offers community tables, cornhole and areas for children to play. Patrons are also able to bring food in to enjoy while socializing, savoring a pint or catching a game on TV. Local flavors can also be taken home directly from the brewery. “What’s really nice about Silver Bluff is their outdoor space,” Hickman said. “It doesn’t feel cramped and everything is spread out. I take my Golden Retriever Remi with me all time and it’s a great place to socialize.” Brewery tours will soon be available and events are always being added to the calendar. “Our next big event will be April 2 – (First Friday) – and we will have a food truck from Skipper’s Fish Camp from Darien and an amazing five-piece band with R&B and funk from Jacksonville,” Moline said. “We always have live music, food trucks and sometimes local vendors.” Silvery Bluff Brewing Co. is located at 1325 New Castle St, Brunswick. Visit silverbluff.com.

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Silver Bluff Brewing Company offers over 12 craft beers in their taproom.

AN EVENING WITH JASON COURTENAY & JARED WADE

FOOD & DRINK

COMMUNITY The Chocolate Martini Bar in Pooler offers dessert martinis as well as food such as cheesecakes and dinner entrees. PHOTO BY BRANDY SIMPKINS

‘Help more kids, eat more chocolate’

New restaurant in Pooler sells tasty treats and benefits family foster charity BY BRANDY SIMPKINS brandy@connectsavannah.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

DID SOMEBODY say chocolate? At 1 N. Godley Station Blvd. stands The Chocolate Martini Bar, a new restaurant serving chocolate-infused food and drinks, all while serving the community in more ways than one. The franchise owner, Maurice Gilliard, describes the restaurant’s food as all-American style cuisine. Though many people think “dessert” when they come across the place, the eatery serves appetizers and entrees including steaks, pecan chicken, pastas, sandwiches, and salads, just to name a few. “The unique thing about The Chocolate Bar is that a majority of things have a chocolate twist to them,” Gilliard said. “We offer the Chocolate Bar Pasta, which is 32 a white chocolate alfredo sauce mixed with

bow-tie pasta.” The owner said franchisor Bill Panzica, who opened the first franchise in Buffalo, New York, was a pastry chef for 30 years, so he has an extensive understanding of pairing pastry tastes with entrees and more. “In the bar specifically, we have 32 martinis, all of which are engineered to taste exactly as they are described to be,” Gilliard said. “So, a chocolate martini would taste nothing short of liquid chocolate infused with vodka. The S’mores Martini is a beautiful mellow-chocolate color with flamed marshmallows on a skewer.” The restaurant owner said that brunch is a new feature to the restaurant and it has an exclusive menu that was cultivated by the head chef of the pooler location. Gilliard said that the exclusive menu is a testament to the trusted relationship between the new Pooler location and the original franchisor.

“Brunch here is beautiful,” said Gilliard. “It’s a big deal.” Some favorites on the brunch menu include Avocado Toast, Georgia Shrimp and Grits, Gumbo and, of course, bottomless mimosas. Though the owner is satisfied with the growth of the restaurant after opening only a few months ago in December 2020, establishing The Chocolate Martini Bar was not as smooth as the taste of their signature Chocolate Martini. Though the restaurant had its soft opening in December, the owner said his journey with the franchise initially began in 2013 while he was in Kentucky as an active-duty military soldier. Gilliard said a friend approached him about the great idea of opening The Chocolate Bar franchise after having a positive experience at the original restaurant’s location. Gilliard hopped on board along with a group

of friends and they all invested in the new franchise with hopes of opening in Washington, D.C. For the new entrepreneurs, the venture was not the success that they had hoped for. “Long story short, everything fell apart and the group pot of money was squandered,” Gilliard said. “We had nothing left but the rights to the franchise and that began our business journey to where we stand as we’ve developed here.” Almost a decade later, Gilliard said he and his current partners did not give up on the idea and he eventually met the right realtor, the right developer, and the right lending institution, and now the business is becoming quite popular in its current location. He said that his years in the military developed within him a stick-with-it attitude. “Establishing this restaurant was a testament of business and professional development within myself and my partners, saying that we stick to something that we put our minds to between 2013 to now,” he said. “Did I ever envision myself being a restaurateur? Not quite, but I also didn’t envision myself being the president of a charity, so I like the challenges.” Gilliard and his wife, Whitney Gilliard, are the founders of G&Co., a facility that aids teens as they transfer out of the foster care system. Gilliard says his family charity, G&Co, began operation five months before The Chocolate Martini Bar. “G stands for Gilliard,” he said. “We specifically focus on young adults that are aging out of the foster care system at the age of 18. So, we provide them housing, they receive mentoring, life skills, financial literacy training and more from us.” The owner shared the family’s personal motivation for starting their charity. “My wife was in foster care for seven years and she actually aged out,” the owner said. “Her experiences in life and what she’s been through led us to giving back.” As the second quarter of business begins for the new restaurant, The Chocolate Bar will work hand-in-hand with the charity, donating a portion of their proceeds to G&Co. “The community support is much appreciated and much needed,” Gilliard said. “And by supporting our restaurant you’re supporting our family foundation, so we always say ‘Help more kids and eat more chocolate.’” The Chocolate Martinia Bar is loacted at 1 N. Godley Station Blvd., Pooler. Visit them online at thechocolatebar.com.

CONNECT SAVANNAH

WEDNESDAY 3/31

Art Patrol

EXHIBITS CONTINUING EXHIBITS

CorkHouse Studio Gallery - Call for Submissions

CorkHouse Gallery is pleased to announce a call for the May/June Exhibition - REAWAKENING: OPENING EYES EMBRACING NEW VISION! T. No entry fee, but those selected will pay a $30 fee ($20 for a two month membership fee, and $10 for a two month exhibition fee). Free 912-677-3456. community@jelinek.com. CorkHouse Gallery, 230 West Bay Street.

‘Count Down’ by Rose Simpson

In Countdown, a major commission of new works by Rose B. Simpson, the artist surpasses the signature human scale typical of her figurative sculptures, bringing bodily forms to an unprecedented totemic stature. $10 general admission June 26. scadmoa.org/. SCAD Museum of Art, 601 Turner Blvd.

‘Star Tap’ by Emily Furr

‘Star Tap’ by Emily Furr. Furr paints celestial visions that place cool, hard-edged objects within weightless, star-filled voids. Furr’s artwork plays with a codex of motifs, exploring their potential formations through a process of repetition. The artist’s serialized tropes take the shape of tongues laden with hallucinogenic sugar cubes, sloping conveyor belts adorned with

astral points, rocket engines with acutely sharp, almost erotic edges, tubes, chains, and myriad metal hardware. $10 general admission May 9. scadmoa.org/. SCAD Museum of Art, 601 Turner Blvd.

Faces of 2020 by Elise Aleman Elise Aleman’s Faces of 2020 is on display at Gallery Espresso through the end of March. galleryespresso.com/. The Gallery Espresso, 234 Bull Street.

Todd Schroeder: X Rated

Schroeder’s X paintings manifest his ongoing romance with paradox ‘X - Rated’ is on view from Feb. 12th to April 10th. Free admission April 10. 912.438.4442. info@laneycontemporary.com. Laney Contemporary, 1810 Mills B. Lane Blvd.

Youthful Adventures: Growing Up in Photography

Youthful Adventures: Growing Up in Photography seeks to celebrate and complicate views of childhood as a universal stage in life, but one that varies broadly in experience. This exhibition is grounded in photographs from the permanent collection of Telfair Museums and speaks to the growing collection. April 18. telfair. org. telfair.org/jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts, 207 West York St. ONGOING

American Gullah Collection

The “American Gullah Collection” by Sonja Griffin Evans is a traveling exhibit that depicts the unsung pioneers of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and of America. The story behind this culture’s creation is compelling. The Gullahs are descendants of West Africans who were forced to the colony through the trans-Atlantic slave trade. ongoing. regus.com. Regus, 100 Bull Street, Suite 200.

Caribbean, Latin American, and African Art from the 1980s and 1990s

Featuring some of the best known Haitian artists of the day, including Denis Smith, Fortuné Gérard, and Prospère Pierre-Louis. “Hoppin’” John Martin Taylor is offering part of his collection of folk art as he prepares to move overseas again. ongoing. PW Short, 414 Whitaker St.

Complex Uncertainties: Artists in Postwar America

Complex Uncertainties: Artists in Postwar America is an evolving exhibition grounded by works in Telfair’s modern and contemporary collection. This presentation brings forth undercurrents that permeate artmaking from the global eruption of World War II until today— events that challenge artists to explore unknowns, react to power, and construct narratives. ongoing. telfair.org/jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts, 207 West York St.

NETWORKING AND NONPROFIT EVENTS If These Walls Could Talk: 200 Years of William Jay Architecture In a time when many Americans sought to distance themselves from European influence and develop a national character of their own, a few, including Richard Richardson, Alexander Telfair, William Scarbrough, and Archibald Stobo Bulloch, still sought the classical elegance of the popular English Regency style. telfair.org. Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, 121 Barnard St.

Interregnum by Daniel E. Smith

This is a series of new works by longtime Savannah artist Daniel E. Smith that seek to define the transitive relationship of change. Gallery profits from show are donated to Savannah LGBT Center ongoing. Location Gallery at Savannah LGBT Center, 1515 Bull St.

Jean Claude Roy

Jean Claude Roy was born in Rochefort-sur-Mer on the west coast of France in 1948. He knew from the age of seven that he wanted to be an artist, and was encouraged by his grandfather, a farmer of modest means who occasionally bought paintings at auctions. grandbohemiangallery.com/. The Grand Bohemian Gallery, 700 Drayton St.

Savannah Eclectic and More

The art presented by Marty Fall will include an eclectic group of popular local area artists, includ-

ing watercolors, pastels, acrylics, prints, and more. La Terra Natural Oils, 1520 Bull St. CLASSES ONGOING

Art Classes and Lessons

Drawing and painting classes and private lessons offered by artist Karen Bradley. Call or email for details. 912-507-7138. kbillustration@mac.com.

Art Classes on Tybee

Tybee Arts Association offers a variety of art classes every week: acrylics, oils, watercolors, stained glass, mosaics, jewelry-making tybeearts.org. Tybee Arts Center, 7 Cedarwood Dr.

Couples Band Workshop

Make your wedding bands extra special by creating them together! Choose from our textural designs, hand-stamping tools, and various widths to make your rings uniquely represent your personalities. 2-3 hours Ongoing please contact Christina to schedule Varies ongoing. 912-289-8337. christina@ dreamcatstudio.com. dreamcat studio, Hover Creek RD.

Open Pottery Studio at Savannah’s Clay Spot

For potters with experience who want time in the studio. Choose from 4-hour time slots. Registrations based on monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly commitment. ongoing. 912-509-4647. savannahsclayspot.com. Savannah’s Clay Spot, 1305 Barnard St.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

ART PATROL

VISUAL ARTS

Tori Tinsley’s first solo exhibition ‘HUGS’ at Laney Contemporary

STONELORDS NYC/SAV

CULTURE

“HUGS” is a playful exploration of the role of caring for another from the artist’s colorful perspective on view at Laney Contemporary through April 10 lush and painterly realms, a place which the artist refers to as ‘hug island.’ “The dark humor I feel in a lot of the works helps explore the darker side of those ATLANTA-BASED ARTIST Tori Tinsley, experiences. The color helps explore the Master of Fine Arts and master’s degree joys of being in that relationship,” Tinsley in Art Therapy, debuts her first solo exhiexplained. Predominately on display bition, “HUGS” at Laney in the mirror room is a fullContemporary. dimension donkey sculpture “HUGS” is a colorful in a Pop palette. Tinley’s fasexploration of human concination with donkeys comes nectivity and the role of from a historic herd of wild caregivers. Her work illusdonkeys, some of which had trates the power of touch a brain disease, which roams and a lack of physical conon Ossabaw Island. Tinsley’s nection that so many have affinity for using donkeys in experienced during the her work came from a weekpandemic. long trip to the barrier island “So many people are havoff the coast of Savannah. ing to live with little to no “I feel like I’m not even physical contact, and it begs choosing the color. My paintthe question if we can’t brush will just go to the physically connect with one color on my palette that feels another, are there other right. It’s very automatic for ways we can show up for and Hug Classic by Tori Tinsme, and I almost feel like I’m care for each other?” Tinsley ley in the solo exhibition, “HUGS.” PHOTO COURTESY a vessel for my paintings. noted. OF TORI TINSLEY Like I’m not even creating The artist’s whimsical them, they’re just flowing color choices and gestural through me,” artist Tori Tinsley. paint strokes in her series, “There Will be “HUGS” is on view at Laney ContempoSacrifices Along the Way” (completed in rary until Apr 10 is a tribute to the artist’s May 2020) depict an intimate process of exhaustion, caring, and loss from being the vulnerable journey of the many emotions caretaker for her mother, from the perspec- that accompany caring, living, loving and loss. “HUGS” serves as a gentle reminder tive of the artist as both a daughter and a from artist Tinsley to “smile through the mother. difficulties.” “This [collection] stems originally from To quote Tinsley: “It can be tough work, my relationship with my mother, who sufhaving such deep and purposeful connecfered from a degenerative brain disease tions, but the end results far outweigh the called FTP. And the work is in response to that. And trying to physically hold onto her burdens we may temporarily carry. As Deswhile mentally she was slipping away,” Tin- mond Tutu once wrote, ‘Nothing is too much trouble for love.’” sley said. Tinley’s playful and energetic two-figure Find out more about the exhibition at characters called “hugs” express varied laneycontemporary.com/exhibitions/toriinterchangeable emotions. A mix of emotinsleyhugs. For more about the artist, visit tions ranging from both happy to worried toritinsley.com or find her on Instagram or saddened. Hugs — and wild donkeys — 34 are featured in settings of imaginatively @tori.tinsley. CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

BY NICOLE YOUNGBLUT

ART • APPAREL• DESIGN STUDIO 415 WHITAKER STREET | DOWNTOWN DESIGN DISTRICT

S T O N E LO R D S . C O M

CULTURE

VISUAL ARTS

Art by Brooke Lancaster can be seen at several upcoming shows, while her jewelry can be found at September’s Closet in Plant Riverside. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BROOKE LANCASTER

Artist Brooke Lancaster paints life in full color BY BRITTANY HERREN

WHAT MAKES A piece of art special? In Brook Lancaster’s case, it’s her. When I spoke to the artist her from her home studio in the Savannah-area, I was immediately struck by the fact that she sounded exactly how her art looked: vibrant. What surprised me was her story, that over the course of a year or so, has unraveled like a fairytale. By trade, Lancaster was a hair stylist and makeup artist. When the coronavirus pandemic forced her into quarantine, like many women around the country, she found herself dropping her profession for stay-at-home motherhood. As the mother of a 5-year old and almost 2-year old, she could have easily become a woman entrenched in the trials, albeit joy, of being a caretaker of little ones. Instead, she found balance and became an artist. Lancaster had dabbled in art throughout her life, making pieces for family

and friends, but she never pursued it on a professional level. When she began to paint more seriously, she drew inspiration from things that were familiar to her: chairs gifted to her from her grandfather, memories of helping her grandmother hang clothes to dry on the clothesline and the female form. As she would paint, like many artists, she piled up paint on wooden painter’s pallets. Unlike many artists, she kept the pallets. “I thought they were too pretty to throw away,” admitted Lancaster with a cheerful laugh. Initially, she framed a few pallets in shadow boxes to display in her home. When the pallets began to grow in number, she turned her thoughts to more functional uses and decided to turn them into jewelry. “I cut the pendants that I will use directly from the pallet and coat them in resin,” she explained. The pendants become bracelets,

Artist Brooke Lancaster holds her paintbrushes for a personality photo. PHOTO COURTESY OF BROOKE LANCASTER

Lancaster’s talent is as natural as her subjects and her instinctive ability to transform everyday objects and also create sustainable fashion leaves little room to wonder why she has become an overnight success. Quite simply, she just has “it” and that “it” factor has been recognized by buyers and galleries locally and beyond in Texas, Washington, D.C., and even Canada. “It just happened in the blink of an eye,” she recalled.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

‘Nothing in My World Looks Neutral’:

earrings and necklaces, sometimes surrounded by beads that she specifically orders from women-owned, environmentally sustainable companies. “Every single piece is so different,” said Lancaster. “When you own one, it’s not the same as anyone else’s.” Lancaster’s painted canvases are equally as unique. Despite being an artistin-bloom, she has found a style that is notably hers. “I have found that my style is my colorful work and I have found comfort in that,” she said. Whether Lancaster is painting a piece of furniture with a shadow, a swimsuit draped on a clothesline or a landscape of row crops, there’s a congruency that exists that makes every piece a part of a larger body of work that simply represents her, her femininity and her zest for life. In just a year, she has honed a characteristically unique style of bright colors, bold and confident strokes, and abstractly geometric shapes that are sophisticated, yet casual. “I once tried to paint with neutral colors and I can’t,” said Lancaster. “Nothing in my world looks neutral.” Lancaster’s almost fearless use of color evokes a sense of wonder, but also makes you feel like you are looking at an old, black and white photograph that has been painted from memory in color. Her work’s aesthetic is welcoming, with a context that is simple, which is refreshing by comparison amidst an art scene that can often feel abstruse. “I genuinely love and have come to appreciate simpler times; I feel like everything is getting really complicated and sensitive,” said Lancaster of the inspiration for her style that one can interpret as a juxtaposition for her work’s uncomplicated nature.

You can own a Brooke Lancaster original by purchasing from her website, BrookeLancaster.com. Her jewelry is also available at September’s Closet at Plant Riverside in Savannah, and her art can be found by visiting The Scouted Studio in Charleston, South Carolina; Gild and Ash in Richmond, Virginia; and at the Pretentious Collector’s 35 show, May 13-15 in Suwanee.

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FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1938

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

ACROSS

1 46 was his veep 6 Gridlock problem 9 Abacus counters 14 “Go ___!” 15 “Dangerous Liaisons” name 16 “Don’t do that!” 17 T, A, or Fiesta, e.g. 19 Drops in the mailbox 20 Hydroxyl-bearing compound 21 Fort ___, N.J. 22 As a maximum 23 Go back in a stream, maybe 25 Nonprofit that now focuses on ages 50 and older 26 Certain caretaker of children 32 City regulator 35 Like some fails 36 “No Ordinary Love” singer 37 “My hands ___ tied” 38 Season with heavy rainfall 41 Address ender 42 Do no better 44 Asian country with no coastline 45 “Now I get it!” 47 Film that’s probably subtitled 50 “___ said ...” 51 Menlo Park name 55 Twelfth zodiacal sign 58 Pre-weekend day, for short 60 Smoke detector?

61 “The Oracle of ___” (Warren Buffett nickname) 62 Trait of trashy talking, perhaps 64 Madagascar mammal 65 “___ making sense?” 66 Super-___ 67 Expert 68 “___ voyage!” 69 “All I Want for Christmas ___”

DOWN

1 Bid 2 Kentucky frontiersman Daniel 3 Elevator button symbol 4 Time for a crisis 5 Convenience store device 6 Dame ___ Dench 7 “Don’t leave home without it” card, briefly 8 “Honi soit qui ___ y pense” 9 Casual eatery 10 Gives immunity to 11 Part of A.D. 12 Root beer brand 13 Pt. of GPS 18 Betting probabilities 22 Transmission repair company with a “beep beep” in its ads 24 “Cheers” regular 25 Short melodic solo 27 Rent payer 28 Salts source 29 Like some IPAs 30 Actress Falco 31 Sales agents

32 ___ Dingbats (picturebased font) 33 Double Stuf cookie 34 Handy 39 Gymnast Korbut and comedian Koch, for two 40 Old Domino’s mascot to “avoid” 43 Condiment in a packet 46 Really abominable 48 Words directly before “Radio” or “Media” 49 Bridal cover 52 Comedian Sales 53 “Bony” prefix 54 Beatles’ jacket style 55 Actress Negri of silent movies 56 Chatted online 57 Equivalent 58 Exclusionary anxiety acronym, and a hint to the four theme answers 59 Archaeological dig site 62 “Groovy” 63 1,501, to Nero CROSSWORD ANSWERS

tuesday Wine wednesday SIppin TEa Monday tree-fifty all beer, titos, RBV, $3 Truly Tea $13 Buckets

jameson: $3.50

thursdays & Sunday Live dj | 6-9 pm Drink specials

Half off Bottles

125 West River Street On top of the cotton sail hotel SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 11AM TO 11 PM* FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 11AM TO 1AM*

www.topdeckbar.com *CLOSING HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Photos by Bunny Ware

PHOTOS FROM LOCAL EVENTS

View more photos online at connectsavannah.com/connected

FANS SHOW OUT AS SAVANNAH BANANAS TAKE ON PARTY ANIMALS Fun-loving Savannah baseball fans populate Grayson Stadium March 20 as the Savannah Bananas premier team plays the Party Animals. The sold-out game featured the ofﬁcial Man-Nanas, the dancing Banana Nanas, plenty of crowd cheers and taunts and much more planned by the yellow-tux-sporting owner, Jesse Cole. The team played two games in Savannah and two the following week in Mobile, Alabama, as part of their One-City World Tour.

Man-Nanas Marty Jones and Mike Williams ﬂex their moves March 20 at Grayson Stadium.

Shane Groves, Brendan Beans and James Groves watch the Savannah Bananas face off against the Party Animals March 20 at Grayson Stadium.

Officer Benjamin Abbassi and Noelle Manelis enjoy the game March 20 at Grayson Stadium.

Becca Nelson and Devon Ashton man the ID booth outside Grayson Stadium.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Kat Clark, Mary Beth Kennedy, Rebecca Strawn and Elizabeth Summerall with the Junior League of Savannah greet fans prior to the game. Robin Leske enjoys the game alongside the Savannah Banana.

Howard Kempf and Mike Thompson take in the game March 20 from their seats in historic Grayson Stadium.

38 Saliya King, Ames Wright, Saadig and Rashida King enjoy the Bananas game March 20.

Tatiana Castro, Kate O’Donnell and Chloe Parsemain pose with the van.

PHOTOS FROM LOCAL EVENTS

Photos by Bunny Ware

View more photos online at connectsavannah.com/connected

GLAMPING ADVENTURES TRIO, FILMING CREW GENERATE BUZZ AT PREVIEW PARTY The Glamping Adventures trio of Chris “Tina” Waters, Nicole “Turbo” Casino and Arra “Tornado” Riggs visit with guests March 21 at Coach’s Corner during their Glamping Adventures TV Show Preview Party. The Anders Thomsen Trio performed live music, the Pegasus Riding Academy Savannah rafﬂed off relics and a riding experience and fans were treated to a teaser of the trio’s upcoming YouTube TV Show.

Renee Montague and Tee Jay mingle before the showing.

Gabby, Dana, Krissy and Bella Williams enjoy refreshments prior to the preview showing.

Lauren Aiken-Howell and Kristen Harkleroad enjoy live music before the preview.

Adele Henderson, Kenny Johnson and Joann Ethridge work to keep guests happy at Coach’s Corner during the preview party.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | MAR 31 - APR 6, 2021

Chris Waters, Nicole Casino and Arra Riggs visit with attendees as they hype up their upcoming show. The three adventurists make up the Glamping Adventures girls who travel in their 31-foot RV, “Minnie Winnie.”

Greg Lard and Becca Rivera await the show at Coach’s Corner in Thunderbolt.

Randy and Elizabeth Brown snag a poster of the Glamping Adventures girls.

Glamping Adventures supporters, along with the storied trio, pose at Coach’s Corner. 39

When Elizabeth found out she was pregnant with twins she was ecstatic x2. But she was worried about the increased birth risks. She was referred to Dr. Carmela Pettigrew and the dedicated team at the Mary Telfair Women’s Hospital.

DELIVERING GOOD NEWS IN TWOS. Elizabeth Bremer - Savannah, GA

The OR team at the Telfair BirthPlace knew Elizabeth was high risk, so their attentive nature was comforting to Elizabeth during her delivery. “The staff at Mary Telfair Women’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s/Candler were very welcoming, professional and forthcoming, which I very much appreciated. They kept me calm and relaxed when the twins came four weeks early!”

THAT’S WHY I CHOOSE ST. JOSEPH’S/CANDLER Carmela Pettigrew, M.D. - OB/GYN

SJCHS.ORG