Emanuel County Living 2019

EMANUEL COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY WWking ff ALL of Emanuel CCnty

2019 - 2020 | EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING | VOLUME 2

Grandeur Restored

A Historic Home's Emanuel CCnty…the place to www.goemanuel.org

!

(478) 237-6426 • 102 South Main Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401

PR OFIL ES | A RT & CULT URE | TA L K OF TH E TOW N

Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce “To enhance the economic prosperity of our members and promote the free enterprise system in Emanuel County.”

Reaching out for a

Healthier Tomorrow Serving Emanuel County and its families for Member Referrals Insurance Discounts Networking Opportunities Chamber Website Links Free Website Advertisements

Business & Industry Support Services Ribbon Cutting Services Conference Room Availability Vision 2020 Leadership Emanuel

(478) 237-6426 • 102 South Main Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401

over 50 years

117 Kite Road | Swainsboro, GA 30401 | 478-289-1100 www.emanuelmedical.org

TABLE of CONTENTS FEATURES

9

A WRONG TURN LED RANDALL & TANYA BAGWELL TO THE RIGHT HOUSE

Fortuitously, a wrong turn led the Bagwell’s past the stately old mansion they now call home and have lovingly restored to its original grandeur.

20

THE HIDDEN GEM

George L. Smith State Park is Emanuel County’s “hidden gem.” It is a camper’s delight with a 412-acre lake and covered bridge.

26

LIVING ON THE GREEN

Throughout Georgia golf has been a part of almost every small town and community. Emanuel County, which has been lucky enough to have a golf course for nearly 80 years, is no exception. And the annual Pig Pickin’ Golf Tournament is part of its success.

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PARKS AND RECREATION The SECRD has been a vital part of life in Emanuel County, providing sports and recreation activities for youth and adults for over 50 years.

39

LYTEE 2.0 - “THE VISION OF 2020” LYTEE 2.0 is the latest version of what started as VISION 2020.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

ABOUT THE COVER: The Greek Revival mansion on Church Street, which was built in 1907 by A.D. and Nora Coleman, has been one of the most iconic structures in Swainsboro for over 100 years. Randall and Tanya Bagwell have gone to great pains to preserve both the character and integrity of the house, which they found by accident, while restoring it to its original grandeur.

Fortuitously, it was a wrong turn that led them past the stately old mansion they now call home. PHOTO BY MARK WILLIAMS STUDIO.

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THE

KWIK SHOP of

SWAINSBORO

YOUR CONVENIENT ONE STOP SHOP SINCE 2009

There are a lot of reasons to visit The Kwik Shop:

1 2 3 4

FOR BREAKFAST

Only the finest meats for your bread, biscuit, or grits! Add some cheese or throw on an egg for the finest breakfast experience in town.

Sausage, Bacon, Chicken, Pork Chops or Ham on Sandwiches, Breakfast Platters and Breakfast Bowls. Then plan to stop by for lunch!

FOR EATING LUNCH

Lighter appetites opt for a hamburger or hot dog, but other meal options include Clubs, Philly Cheesesteaks, Chicken Sandwiches or Chicken Fingers. Add on fries, tots, onion rings or a side salad to make it a meal. Call for our daily lunch specials.

FOR FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION

We stock the finest firearms on the market, and can get almost anything within a couple of days.

Special orders are no problem. Check out our website www.thekwikshop.com for up to the minute prices and availability. Rifles, Shotguns, Pistols, Optics, Ammunition, and Suppressors.

FOR FISHING

We stock a variety of tackle to meet your fishing needs including a wide selection of lures. Live bait such as crickets and worms are available year-round with seasonal availability for minnows and shiners. If you need a new rod or reel, we have several to choose from and can special order whatever you are looking for.

5 6

FOR CANDY

We have the coolest candy aisle in town. A wide selection of chewing gum, chocolates, sweets or sours. If you have a sweet tooth, stop by and check out the selection.

FOR FUELING YOUR RIDE GAS AND DIESEL

Our Gas is all Ethanol Free. Our Diesel is exceptional. Branded Pure and provided by a local distributor; rest assured your engines, large and small, will like our gas best!

But the best reason of all……

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FOR THE EXPERIENCE CUSTOMER SERVICE

We strive for the best customer service experience around. When you shop at the Kwik Shop, you’re family and a friend. Hang out if you’d like, but if you’re in a hurry we’ll get you out quick!

{

THE KWIK SHOP 351 East Main Street Swainsboro, Georgia 30401

(478) 237-7596

www.thekwikshop.com kwikshop20@gmail.com

}

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71 43

PROFILES

A LESSON IN SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY 43

Lynda Cowart Talmadge knows a thing or two about southern hospitality. She has hosted everything from formal dinners for high-ranking elected officials to tailgates for her beloved Georgia Bulldogs.

ERMA JENKINS - A LIFE OF SERVICE 52

Erma Jenkins is an educator. Not just in a school’s classroom but also in the classroom of life.

55

A TRIBUTE TO H.G. YEOMANS A wonderful life remembered.

EAST GEORGIA STATE COLLEGE 57

Donated to East Georgia State College in 2015

by the Morgan family, The Morgan House has become a fixture of EGSC's mission on bringing the community and college closer together.

EMANUEL ACADEMY 59 DAVID CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

4

From its humble beginnings in 1969, David Emanuel Academy is celebrating 50 years of traditions.

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

LEADING THE WAY TO SUCCESS 60

Larry Calhoun leads the way for Southeastern Technical College.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS 63

For Mitch and Kristin Hall, their hearts are in their hometown of Swainsboro, the one place they thought they’d never live.

A SHOPPER’S PARADISE 67

Locals and visitors from across the country enjoy Swainsboro’s Main Street Market.

HOME GROWN JIM’S MEAT SAUCE 72

The future is bright for this third generation business led by Drake Oglesby, the founder’s grandson.

ART & CULTURE and culture abound in Emanuel County! With 75 Art internationally known song writers like Doug Johnson, to local talent performing Steel Magnolias, to revisiting the glory days of the Nancy Auditorium.

TALK OF THE TOWN Emanuel County’s People, Places, and 84 Showcasing Events.

From the Publisher

Editors and Publishers John F. Riddle & Connie K. Riddle Showcase Publications, Inc.

Art Director Robin Harrison Caffeine Generated Graphics

Content Manager Candice McKinley

Cover Photography Mark Williams Studio

Contributing Writers: Ken Warnock, CEO of Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce & Joint Development Authority, Randall & Tanya Bagwell, Connie & John Riddle

EMANUEL COUNTY

C

A G R E AT C O M M U N I T Y

ommunity is defined as “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.” Emanuel County is a community that represents these attributes as it prospers in so many areas. From economic growth to support of one another, Emanuel County is a great community!

It is our pleasure to publish the second issue of Emanuel County Living. In this issue, we highlight some of Emanuel County’s treasures - George L. Smith State Park, the Swainsboro Golf Course, the Main Street Market, and the expansive recreation department. Also, we share with the readers some of the community’s personalities and leaders, including Lynda Talmadge, Mitch & Kristin Hall, Larry Calhoun, and Erma Jenkins. As in each issue, we enjoy sharing Emanuel County’s homegrown products, and this time it is Jim’s Meat Sauce. In Art & Culture, we take a look back at the Nancy Auditorium and reunite with Swainsboro’s own “music man,” Doug Johnson.

Speaking of treasures, our main feature is the “old Karrh home.” You’ll see how the current owners, Randall and Tanya Bagwell, have renovated one of the most iconic homes in Swainsboro.

We appreciate the support of the wonderful advertisers who make this publication possible. We encourage you to support them and buy local. Thank you to the local writers and photographers who are such a vital part of the magazine and to the Chamber of Commerce for their support.

We encourage you to take time out of your busy schedule to sit down, relax, and enjoy this issue of Emanuel County Living!

John & Connie Riddle info@showcasepublicationga.com

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

Lynn Brinson, Candice McKinley, John Riddle, Connie Riddle, Tony Mangieri, Zac Frye, Matt Donaldson, Ken Warnock, Blake Adams

Photographers Mark Williams Studio Gambrell Photography Cal Avery John Riddle Chamber of Commerce Swainsboro Recreation Department The Office of the Governor

Designers: Robin Harrison, Russ Hutto

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING is published annually by Showcase Publications, Inc. For information on advertising, submitting articles, or subscribing: (912)-559-2045 P.O. Box 391 Jesup, GA 31598 info@showcasepublicationsga.com Website: showcasepublicationsga.com All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors and other changes without notice. The opinions expressed by the writers are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Other magazines published by Showcase Publications: Jeff Davis Living / Okefenokee Living Valdosta Magazine / Wayne County Magazine Traditions Highway Magazine & Travel Guide*Brooks County Living

DOWNTOWN SWAINSBORO EVENTS December 5, 2019 – Swainsboro Christmas Parade January 20, 2020 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade May 1, 2020 – Rhythm & Pines Music Festival May 2, 2020 – 75th Annual Pine Tree Festival June 26, 2020 – Summer Concert at The Boneyard July 31, 2020 – Summer Concert at The Boneyard October 13, 2020 – Downtown Swainsboro Fall Festival November 13 – 14, 2020 – Downtown Swainsboro Holiday Open House December 3, 2020 – Swainsboro Christmas Parade

12,000+ SQUARE FEET 60+ VENDORS MONDAY  SATURDAY 10AM  5PM 215 WEST MAIN STREET

DOWNTOWN SWAINSBORO

FOLLOW US ON

ROOTED IN

Tradition GROWING THROUGH

Service

211 North Main Street Swainsboro, Georgia 30401 (478) 237-6619 www.spiveybank.com

Front: Stephanie Stephens Fagler, President and Tonya Ogletree, Branch Manager Back: Joyce Steptoe, Vice-President, Tracy Mason, Banking Officer, Jimmy May, Vice-President

A WRONG TURN LED

Randall & Tanya Bagwell TO THE RIGHT HOUSE

R

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK WILLIAMS STUDIO

ANDALL AND TANYA BAGWELL might not have ever even realized where Swainsboro is if their daughter hadn’t enrolled at Georgia Southern University. They probably would have never visited if they could’ve found a hotel room in Statesboro the weekend they moved her in. And, they probably would’ve never seen the “Karrh House,” as locals know it, if they hadn’t made a wrong turn from the Edenfield Bed & Breakfast next door as they headed back to Atlanta. Fortuitously, that wrong turn led them past the stately old mansion they now call home.

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

9

"We love Swainsboro.

The people here are so nice".

RANDALL AND TANYA BAGWELL

The Greek Revival mansion on Church Street, which was built in 1907 by A.D. and Nora Coleman, has been one of the most iconic structures in Swainsboro for over 100 years. And, it is still turning heads as it did Randall’s that Sunday morning when he saw a “for sale” sign on the front lawn.

because Tanya is extremely talented and artistic. What she envisions she can bring to life, even if she has to do it herself,” he emphasized. “She has always been interested in historic preservation, and this was an opportunity for her to create a legacy. To pour all of her talents into one project."

"I got online to find out the price," Randall said. “I called the real estate agent who offered to meet us at 1 p.m. that afternoon.” They spent the next 60 days negotiating the price. Less than three months after first seeing the home, they became the new owners in December 2014. Though Randall is an engineer and Tanya is an interior designer, neither had tackled a project quite like this before. They were uncertain as to what was in store for them. But they had vision and passion, and that is what drove them.

They have gone to great pains to preserve both the character and integrity of the house while honoring the place that former families who lived there called home.

PREVIOUS PAGE:

The Greek Revival style home, built in 1907, has been restored to it's original grandeur. The Bagwell's daughter was married on the front lawn before the home's renovation except for some limited structural repair to the columns, porch, and balcony to ensure safety.

10

Randall credits Tanya with bringing the house to life again. “The only reason we’re sitting here today is

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

“Rosemary Coleman Knox, a granddaughter of A.D. and Nora Coleman, lives in Atlanta where we live full time. She invited me to the Marietta Country Club after she heard from relatives in the area that the house had been sold,” Tanya said. “She gave me a photo of her father on the front porch and a watercolor of the house.” Mrs. Knox also gave her an invoice for $100,000 for framing and building

The library is on the right, across the central hall from the living room. The artwork throughout the home reflects the era and things of meaning to the Bagwell’s including some of Tanya’s own artwork like this piece in the library.

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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materials for the home from 1907. Randall explained that, “In today’s money that equates to about $1.1 million.”

Tanya quickly realized that although it was their home now, they were also caretakers of a home that has meant so much to other families over the years. As it turns out, all the families who have lived in the house are related in some way. "Relatives of the previous owners are buried in the Bagwell family cemetery in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where Randall is from.

TOP: The living room, to the left of the front door off the central hall and adjoining the dining room, has a player piano.

BOTTOM: The dining room has the original hand-painted wallpaper from 1910.

The Atlanta Jewish Center in Atlanta has a small museum dedicated to the artist who painted it.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

Though the property is not listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Randall explained, "… all of the work was done to the historic guidelines set forth both by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the National Park Service." All the bathroom fixtures, including the tile, tubs, and sinks, from a remodel in 1932, were kept. “Everything except the toilets,” Randall deadpanned. They even found a machine shop in Northern California to completely restore the Crane bathroom fixtures.

“Crane fixtures haven’t been made since WWII. There are no replacement parts,” Randall explained. “So, we were fortunate to find this place to repair them. Now they are like brand new.”

TOP: The kitchen, which had been added onto twice previously, is Tanya’s favorite place. “It has a timeless look that keeps the authenticity of the house.

It’s where our family sits, where we relax and unwind,” Tanya said.

LEFT & ABOVE: The place where they spend the most time is the former butler's pantry they converted to a cozy den and wine tasting room. This comfortable spot is located between the kitchen and the dining room and serves as a personal place to relax.

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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ABOVE & LEFT: The master bedroom is located downstairs. Of course, the Bagwell's made extensive renovations to accommodate the master bathroom.

Other improvements included replacing the columns. The Capital (top) and Plinth (bottom) of the columns had to be recast to be exact replicas following strict historical guidelines. “One was filled with honeybees. It took two days for the bees to be vacuumed out,” Tanya said. The bees were donated to Georgia Southern University.

The home needed extensive interior work. It was one of the first in Georgia to have electricity and had been a boarding house during the Depression called the Colonial Home. In addition to all new wiring, the upstairs floors, original to the house, were refinished, which was extensive, time-consuming work. "Most of the hardwood floors had been covered with carpet or laminate that had been glued down,” Tanya explained. The downstairs floors, installed in the 1950s, were restored as well.

Tanya’s commitment to historical accuracy shows throughout the home. She chose the Historic Colors of Charleston for the home’s interior. “All of the furniture was purchased at antique auctions and keeps with the character of the home,” Tanya said. That includes a chest

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

ABOVE: Tanya sewed all of the window treatments throughout the home including the canopy cornice teester over one of the beds (above). The blue bedroom (top) has two chairs that are original to the house.

LEFT: All of the original bathrooms have original fixtures that have been restored.

This one also has the same tile from an earlier restoration, and the light fixture is Murano glass purchased by Mrs. Karrh while in Italy and is one of the three remaining that are original to the house. This bathroom is located adjacent to the blue bedroom above.

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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ABOVE: Two of the four bedrooms upstairs have a more masculine style. All of the bedrooms are uniquely decorated. They are filled with period pieces the Bagwell’s have strategically sought after at antique auctions and painstakingly restored.

RIGHT: Another upstairs bathroom has two sinks, a tub, and a shower that is rare for the time this house was built. Tanya used the large horse picture because of the horse races that used to be held along Race Track street on the next block.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

in the foyer from 1790. Tanya restored the woodwork on several pieces and had the upholstery done by someone else. She used 500 yards of fabric to make the window treatments, sewing each one on a sewing table set up that stretched from the dining room through the living room. “This was the biggest sewing project I had ever undertaken."

The attention to detail in the restoration of this house is quite amazing. "Through my company (Enrich Design & Restorations LLC), I’ve performed space planning, chosen paint colors, fabrics, and furniture selection for clients, but never have I undertaken such a longterm project, because this took over four years!”

Tanya explained. Randall summed it up best, “Tanya has put blood, sweat, and tears in this house.”

Of course, a project this large takes help. The Bagwell’s are quick to credit others who significantly helped make this project a reality.

William Coleman, a local painter, was hired for just that originally. But when he noticed other out-oftown workers not doing the job he thought they should be doing, he informed Randall.

LEFT: The sleeping porch on the second floor is Randall's favorite room. "It is probably the room that was most dysfunctional and in need of repair," Randall said. It has been transformed into a place that is open, inviting, and airy. "We especially enjoy it in the evenings.

The high windows provide light but also privacy."

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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Eventually, William was the person in charge of all day-today activities. "He was a godsend for us," said Tanya. "There is no way this house would be what it is today without William. He really acted as our general superintendent.

He found things daily that needed to be corrected that we would have never known about,” Randall explained. Others who they credit include Tim Johnson, who restored the hardwood floors; Russell Thornton built and installed the kitchen cabinets; William Coleman did most of the painting.

"Those three local guys outperformed all the other folks we brought in from out of town,” Randall said with pride.

TOP: Originally the back porch, this space is still being used in a similar way.

Located behind the foyer, it adjoins a hallway that leads past the kitchen and laundry room to another mudroom and back door.

ABOVE: Randall Bagwell is President of Nova Engineering and Environmental, an engineering consulting firm with 400 employees with offices across the southeast. He credits Tanya with bringing the house to life again. "She has always been interested in historic preservation, and this was an opportunity for her to create a legacy. To pour all of her talents into one project."

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

Randall and Tanya have enjoyed getting to know the people of Emanuel County. Though they are not Emanuel County natives, they are part-time residents, they are some of Swainsboro’s most ardent supporters. “We love sharing the home with the people of the community,” Tanya said. They are sad when they leave. “We love this place. The people are so nice.”

A home like this is never fully complete. Randall still has a few of the original doorknobs that are yet to be cleaned and reinstalled. And, Tanya still hasn't found the "perfect" dining room chairs. However, one would never know there was one thing left to do in this house they have lovingly restored to all its original grandeur.

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125 West Main Street • Adrian, GA 31002

478-668-3351 EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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GEM” T

“THE HIDDEN

ST ORY B Y TWIN CITY MAYOR MATT DONALDSON PH OT O G R A PH Y PR OV I DE D B Y GEORGE L. SMITH STATE PARK

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UCKED BETWEEN THE PINES OF EMANUEL COUNTY sits George L. Smith State Park.

The park, which sits in the eastern part of Emanuel County and approximately two miles from Twin City, is a camper’s delight. The park has 1,634 acres, eight cottages, 24 tent, trailer, and RV campsites, four primitive campsites, four picnic shelters, one group shelter, and one pioneer campground. The centerpiece of the park is the 412-acre lake and covered bridge. The acreage and lake were once the site of the Parrish Mill and Pond, which was a grist mill, sawmill, covered bridge and dam built in the 1880s. The lake makes for some of best kayaking in Georgia. Often dubbed as “The Best Pin Ball Kayaking in Georgia”, the lake is full of cypress and tupelo trees. As you paddle deeper into the lake, the cypress and tupelo trees are more plentiful and make for natural obstacles and added fun. In the fall, the tree needles turn a bright orange, which creates a wonderland of fall colors reflecting off the glass-like water on the lake. It is a photographer’s dream and heavily photographed during the fall months. In addition to kayaking, the lake is known for boating and fishing. The local fishermen can tell you all the great spots to fish in the lake. If boating, kayaking, or fishing are not your joys, the park has even more to offer, including seven miles of trails to explore.

While exploring, you may be able to spot the park’s mascot and Georgia’s state reptile – the gopher tortoise.

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

OFTEN DUBBED AS “THE BEST PIN BALL KAYAKING IN GEORGIA”, THE LAKE IS FULL OF CYPRESS AND TUPELO TREES. AS YOU ­PADDLE DEEPER INTO THE LAKE, THE CYPRESS AND ­TUPELO TREES ARE MORE PLENTIFUL AND MAKE FOR ­NATURAL OBSTACLES AND ADDED FUN.

In recent years, the park has undergone an extensive remodel. The park now boasts a new park office and visitors center, a new group shelter and deck overlooking the mill and lake, eight remodeled cabins, new handicapped accessible dock, and new comfort station at the campground.

The new group shelter seats 94 people. It is perfect for any wedding, family reunion, or corporate retreat. The new deck on the back of the group shelter adds a special outdoor reception area for any event. With the recent investments in the park, it is shining brand new for the thousands of visitors who visit her.

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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Economic Impact Sugar Cane Festival Every year on the third Saturday in November, thousands of visitors flock to George L. Smith State Park for the “Sweetest Festival in Georgia” – the Sugar Cane Festival. The park fills up with food and craft vendors, music acts, family-friendly events, and those visitors seeking the famous sugar cane syrup. The Park staff, along with a dedicated group of volunteers, spend the weeks leading up to the festival grinding and boiling the sugar cane to make the syrup, including the day of the festival itself. The visitors can witness the process firsthand and can sample the fresh cane juice and purchase some of the syrup. And, the people that want to purchase syrup had better come early the day-of the festival because the syrup always sells out fast! The syrup has been shipped all over the world by festival attendees. Park cabins and campsites fill up quickly after each festival, so making reservations early for the next year is crucial. It’s an annual event for many dedicated festival attendees. It is a one-of-a-kind festival experience and fun for everyone.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

With all the natural beauty and recreational opportunities state parks provide, some people might forget about their economic impact. Based on a recent study, Georgia’s parks have had visitation from more than 10 million people and created $1 billion in economic impact for Georgia. Our state park system is one of best in the nation, and George L. Smith State Park is a great example. Locally, George L. Smith State Park has a visitation rate of more than 87,000 people annually, with an economic impact of $8.8 million dollars, and supports 85 jobs. In a rural county like Emanuel, an $8.8 million-dollar economic impact is a big driver for the local economy. Not only does George L. Smith State Park provide natural beauty for its citizens, it also provides economic value for our area.

[

OUR STATE PARK SYSTEM IS ONE OF BEST IN THE NATION, AND GEORGE L. SMITH STATE PARK IS A GREAT EXAMPLE.

Friends of the Park The Friends of George L. Smith State Park is a dedicated group of volunteers who help promote and support the park.

The local chapter is part of a larger group – the Friends of Georgia State Park and Historic Sites. The Friends of Georgia State Park and Historic Sites’ mission is very simple – to partner with, promote, and preserve Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites. “The Friends” work to raise awareness of the economic and intrinsic values of the Georgia’s greatest treasures.

The organization works with state and community leaders to ensure the parks’ natural resources are well protected and maintained for all Georgians. Almost all Georgia Parks and Historic Sites have a local chapter of Friends of the Park.

Statewide, volunteers contribute more than

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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[

GEORGE L. SMITH STATE PARK HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. FROM TRAILS, BIKING, AND ­HIKING, TO BIRDING, BOATING, FISHING, AND CAMPING, THERE IS AN ACTIVITY FOR EVERYONE.

75,000 volunteer hours, equal to more than $1.5 million dollars. At the local level, the Friends of George L. Smith State Park volunteered more than 1,300 hours in 2018. The local chapter holds a Fall Festival each year, participates annually in Your State Parks Day, assists with the Sugar Cane Festival, and completes various service projects. In recent years, the local chapter has bought a new park entrance sign, a new flagpole for the visitors’ center, and purchased benches for the visitors’ center. On the horizon for 2020, the local Chapter will be purchasing new interpretative signage and will begin work on replacing a dock near the picnic shelters. The local chapter works with Park management to make George L. Smith an even better place to visit and enjoy.

The Hidden Gem

GEORGE L. SMITH A GREAT GEORGIAN AND NATIVE OF EMANUEL COUNTY The park’s name sake, George L. Smith, II, was a native son to Emanuel County.

George L. Smith was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1944 and served until 1973. During his 30 years in office, he was Speaker of the House of Representatives for 11 years, until his death in 1973. Speaker Smith was known for his legislative skill and was a powerful ally during his years in office. The state of Georgia honored Smith’s long legacy of service to the state by naming the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta in him memory.

The results of his leadership are lasting to this day. During his years of service, he fought to establish kindergartens in every school system and to extend the years required to graduate. Speaker Smith was pivotal in the creation of East Georgia State College, formerly known as Emanuel County Junior College. He is one of the most distinguished citizens of Emanuel County.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

George L. Smith State Park has something for everyone.

From trails, biking, and hiking, to birding, boating, fishing, and camping, there is an activity for everyone.

In addition, guests can visit in the Fall and gaze at beauty of the bright orange needles reflecting off the lake. It’s truly a breath-taking site to behold. Visitors can also come out to enjoy the Sugar Cane Festival, a day full of vendors, music, and the making of the best syrup in Georgia. And, for the history buff, the mill is a great place to explore the history of the 1880s gristmill and sawmill. George L. Smith State Park is truly a hidden gem in the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites system and worth a trip.

Sitting Left to Right: Zachary D. Frye, Vice President/ Swainsboro Branch Manager • Gail S. Curl, Sr. Vice President/Metter Branch Manager Judy Price, Vice President/Loans • Matt W. Donaldson, Assistant Vice President/Controller/Assistant Compliance Officer Standing Left to Right: James O. Cowart, Sr. Vice President/Loan Administration • H. Wade Johnson, Executive Vice President/Chief Lending Officer G. W. Johnson, Jr. , President/CEO • Kirk Rocker, Vice President/Millen Branch Manager • R. Luke Lanier, Vice President/Ag Lending Specialist

Locally Owned, Local Decisions, Your Local Hometown Bank Since 1935.

111 North Railroad Ave. • Twin City • 478-763-2121 | 318 South Main St. • Swainsboro • 478-237-2121 900 South Lewis St. • Metter • 912-685-2265 | 815 Highway 25 North • Millen • 478-249-1221

www.durdenbc.com Convenient ATM locations in Twin City, Swainsboro, Metter, and Millen

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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Green Living on the

Throughout Georgia, S t o r y b y Z AC HA RY F RY E

G o l f C o u r s e P i c t u r e s b y C A L AV E R Y

golf has been a part of almost every small town and community at one time or another.

It is a game revered by many for its beauty and challenge. There are very few sports you can play competitively no matter your age, and even fewer where there is no one to blame when a bad shot is played. It is a sport full of rules, traditions, integrity, and fellowship. It has allowed men and women from various backgrounds an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while also providing a competitive event, longed for by any athlete or sports fan. Emanuel County has been lucky enough to have a golf course for nearly 80 years.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

The course was not built by a professional designer or highprofile grass expert, but rather, the South Georgia way, with farmers and backhoes. The original course included nine holes, which are all still intact today with very few changes or modifications. In 1997, another nine holes were added with assistance from the City of Swainsboro and other private individuals. This investment has proven to be well worth the time, with the course having more than 10,000 rounds played each year.

The course layout is unique, with the older nine holes being shorter with few hazards but proves to be quite challenging due to the small putting surfaces. The "new" nine is longer with much more hazard trouble. The greens are somewhat larger but still small by industry standards. With the combination of length, green size, and hazardous areas, the Par 73 course poses problems for some of the best golfers. In 2016, a large investment was made by the club to replace all 18 greens to provide a more consistent putting surface and more resistant to disease and insect problems.

The Swainsboro Golf and Country Club is located on Old Mcleods Bridge Road near the Recreation Department, Airport, and National Guard Armory. This is not an accident. The course and club were established in 1940 by the City of Swainsboro to provide a leisure and recreation activity for its citizens. The course is still a municipal course, and daily tee times are open to the public. The municipal factor also helps to keep the greens fees affordable for all levels of golfers to enjoy.

A sometimes forgotten aspect of local courses is the benefit of tournaments, whether for charity fundraising, club awareness, or strictly for competition. The Swainsboro Golf and Country Club hosts several outside tournaments throughout the year with a consistent line up of charity events including the Industry Appreciation Tournament hosted by the SwainsboroEmanuel County Chamber of Commerce, the Kevin Hutcheson Tournament hosted by the Jaycees Club, The Pin-Hi Championship, The Shriner Tournament, and the Sheriff 's Youth Home Tournament. The club also hosts two tournaments in addition to the club championship, The Pine Tree and the Pig Pickin’, both of which have been in existence for more than 30 years. All these tournaments are consistently full of golfers eager to play, but the Pig Pickin’ Tournament is by far the most anticipated, and in the most demand of any tournament held at the course, and possibly in Southeast Georgia.

The exact start date is unclear, and how the date was chosen is a mystery, but for over 30 years, the second weekend in July has been dedicated to the Pig Pickin’ Golf Tournament. The tournament is a 2-man scramble event and hosts 120 teams (240 golfers) for two days. The signup date is the 1st Monday of June, EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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and the past three tournaments have filled up in less than 2 hours with 20+ teams on the waiting list. Pro Shop Manager, Charlie Chappell, commented, “we start taking phone calls at 8:00 am, and the phone never stops ringing that day. We also have several teams who prefer to sign up in person, which is fine as well. It takes three people to field the calls and get people signed up and entry fees paid.” Surprisingly only about half the teams are local. The remainder is

The Swainsboro Country Club is ideal for even the youngest golfers

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

from bordering counties, Savannah, South Carolina, and Alabama. When talking with several golfers, the consistent date and the overall atmosphere are repetitive answers as to why they choose to spend this particular weekend in Emanuel County.

Interestingly, no one can remember the tournament ever being rained out or canceled. With July rain showers and hot, humid conditions, this is truly amazing.

The course superintendent focuses on maintenance as well as specific course projects around the tournament. When asked, Mark Jordan commented, “We try to have the course in as good of condition as possible at least two weeks before the tournament. We have a major influx of play before the tournament. It is one of the busiest weeks and weekends for the course, and my crew takes pride in showcasing what you can do with hard work and limited resources. Small and municipal courses are always strapped for resources, but Swainsboro Golf and Country Club continues to make improvements and enhancements, with some of that funding coming from the proceeds of this tournament.”

PHOTO BY JOHN RIDDLE

ABOVE: Pig Pickin' Tournament leaders Lee Stewart, Judy Hendrix, and 2019 Chairman Eric Wheeler.

Jordan commented, "It is important to reinvest profits and proceeds into the course. The course is any golf club’s largest and most attractive asset."

In 2019, the Pig Pikin’ was held the weekend of July 13th and 14th. The schedule of events for the tournament includes a practice round on Friday followed by a "One Club Challenge" and an evening cocktail party. Saturday begins with shotgun tee times starting at 8:00 am and 1:30 pm. Saturday night features a true Pig Picking prepared by competition barbeque team Down South BBQ, feeding approximately 300 golfers and guests. Scoring and flights are announced during the evening festivities.

Sunday morning comes early for the four nonchampionship flights at 8:00 am. The four lower flights begin at 1:30 pm, featuring teams posting lower scores. This year's champions were Joey Pittman and Chad Roberts, posting a Saturday score of 57 and a Sunday score of 62 to win by one stroke.

The tournament has taken on an identity as an enjoyable and fun atmosphere. Tournament chairman Eric Wheeler commented, “The Pig Pickin’ has been billed by so many over the years as a quality, well-run tournament. We have tried to create an atmosphere where golfers can enjoy themselves while knowing everything behind the scene and on

LEFT: Joey Pittman and Chad Roberts (Pig Pickin' Champions).

the course is being taken care of. We strive for the tournament to be as competitive as possible and still want everyone to have fun and enjoy the social aspects golf can provide.”

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At first glance, one notices golfers on the driving range, putting green, filling up coolers, or talking to someone they see once a year, but at second glance, one can see the volunteers and manpower it takes to host a large tournament like this. Small town courses are not afforded the luxury of having a 20 or 30 person staff. Instead, they rely heavily on volunteers from the community and the club. One constant

volunteer is Judy Hendrix. She has been involved with this tournament for more than 20 years, and any golfer who has played in prior years knows her and how important she is to the tournament's success.

She has the difficult task of scoring and flighting the teams, in addition to Sunday payouts. “Without Judy, I’m not sure we could pull this tournament off,” says Wheeler. There is also Lee Stewart, who is part of the tournament committee and a constant volunteer within the community. Lee works tirelessly to help with scoring, provide traditional handwritten scoreboards, help with carts, and anything extra needed at the club during that weekend. "We have a great club, and this is one small way I can help give back and keep us financially viable for a future generation of golfers. I love seeing young people play and enjoy the game of golf," Lee said. And countless others help that weekend to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.

In 2020, the tournament will be held July 11th & 12th, and sign up will begin June 2nd.

Golf Tips

BY BLAKE ADAMS, Retired PGA Golf Pro

G

OLF IS THE HARDEST GAME in the world. It revolves around a ball and an uneven surface...good luck!!!

It cannot be perfected or mastered. It is relentless and doesn't show favoritism. The game doesn't care how old you are, how much money you have, or your skill level.

It will test you to the limits and it demands excellence. However, that is why we love it.

Perfection is unobtainable but the pursuit of it is what keeps a player coming back over and over again.

Throughout my 19-year professional golf career, my goal has been simple. All I want

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to do is simplify the game. This game is hard and at times it seems impossible. However, if we slow down and think our way around the golf course, our scores will improve. One of the fastest way to shave strokes off our score is to improve on the greens. Too often, I see players of all caliber waste shots on the green due to a lack of concentration or focus.

Putting shouldn't be as hard as most players make it seem.

So how do we improve and shave strokes?

It's simple...focus on speed and speed only.

Speed is definitely “KING” on the greens.

Sure, stroke, green reading, aim, etc. are very

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

important but these things don't compare to the importance of speed. Be an athlete and visualize yourself rolling the ball to the hole with your hand. Once you are setup and aligned correctly, think SPEED. Remember golf is a game and your goal is to have a stress free and enjoyable round of golf with your friends or family. Take advantage of being away from the office or school and outside for once, enjoying the sunshine and fellowship. I promise you that if you improve your speed on the greens, your scores will lower along with your blood pressure!

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Swainsboro-Emanuel County

PARKS AND RECREATION PROVIDED BY TONY MANGIERI PHOTO BY CONNIE RIDDLE

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HE SWAINSBORO-EMANUEL COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT (SECRD) has been a vital part of life in Emanuel County, providing sports and recreation activities for youth and adults for over 50 years. During that time, the recreation department has expanded its offerings considerably, while growing its leagues and parks.

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Youth Sports & Youth Teams: As a member of the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association, the largest organized sports organization in Georgia, the SECRD offers multiple youth sports programs including basketball, track and field, girls softball, t-ball, baseball, junior baseball, tot soccer, soccer, cheerleading, flag football, and tackle football.

Additionally, all-star play is offered in basketball, girl's softball, baseball, track and field, and football.

PHOTO BY CONNIE RIDDLE

SECRD CHAMPIONS: • 10 baseball state championships • 2 girls softball state championships • 4 basketball state championships • Countless district championships • Dozens of track and field athletes who have medaled at state meets

Tony Mangieri, Recreation Director, and Jerry Lawson, Assistant Director, oversee the SECRD.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

PHOTO BY CONNIE RIDDLE

Parks & Greenspaces If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind in the quiet, you’ve got plenty of places to choose from. The SECRD manages in excess of 100 acres of parks in Emanuel County.

Harmon Park, situated off Highway 1 South in Swainsboro, is the crown jewel of parks, boasting approximately 50 acres of green space, a lighted walking trail, four fishing ponds, four tennis courts, a well-kept playground, clean restrooms, a gazebo with a spectacular view, and several covered areas for picnicking.

PHOTO BY CONNIE RIDDLE

Vann Park, located in the heart of Swainsboro on West Main, offers two playgrounds, a picnic shelter, and the Vann Community House, popular for hosting family dinners and reunions, parties, meetings, and other social events.

Neighborhood parks include DeAlva Park, Fowler Park, and Yam Grande Park. These gathering spots provide playgrounds and picnic areas for residents.

BELOW: Pinebrook Park, also known

as Veterans Park, sits at the crossroads of Highway 80 and Highway 57. This natural setting is a perfect getaway for reflection and tranquility as several monuments are there to recognize members of the armed forces and the fallen from 9/11.

PHOTO BY CONNIE RIDDLE

ABOVE: The Boneyard, behind the Chamber of Commerce, is the place

to be on Saturday mornings for a huge yard-sale. It is also the site of numerous community events throughout the year, including the everpopular farmer's markets.

In addition to its sports leagues and complexes, the SECRD manages over 100 acres of parks in Emanuel County, providing recreational opportunities for all ages. Billy C. Carmichael Park, for example, hosts the annual Jaycees Fourth of July Fireworks Show, where hundreds of folks gather for a night of fun and fireworks.

One of the newest parks is “Bark in the Boro,” a dog park located at the end of Harmon Park.

Opened in 2017, it provides an area to walk and play with your dog, while unleashed, in a safe environment. Most of the parks are available at no charge for neighborhood, social, and community events by obtaining permits through the Recreation Department.

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Father-Daughter Dance In addition to the myriad of sports activities, the SECRD hosts an annual Father-Daughter Dance in February around Valentine's Day.

it. "Splash-N- Sports" is open daily during the summer and available for private parties.

In addition to outside spaces, the SECRD also manages the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Auditorium, with a 975-seat capacity facility available to rent for large events like pageants, concerts, and funerals. It has theatre seating, a sound and lighting system, a piano, and a large stage.

Water Park The “Splash-N-Sports” splash pad has 14 features, including "the bucket," a giant bucket that dumps 50 gallons of water at a time on the kids waiting eagerly below it. It is open daily during the summer and available for private parties. The splash pad is located at Billy C. Carmichael Recreation Complex

A kid’s favorite, “Splash-N-Sports,” is located at the Billy C. Carmichael Recreation Complex. The splash pad has fourteen features, including "the bucket," a giant bucket that dumps 50 gallons of water on the kids waiting eagerly below

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

The Swainsboro-Emanuel County Parks and Recreation Department will continue to offer new and innovative programs, activities, and facilities for all the citizens of Emanuel County.

To learn more about programs, registrations, or download forms, go to our website at www.secrd. org or go to our Facebook page under SwainsboroEmanuel County Parks and Recreation and “like us” to stay connected.

At DANIELS CHEVROLET in Swainsboro, we have been a family owned and operated new and pre-owned dealership in Emanuel County since 1926. We have a large selection of new & pre-owned vehicles for you to choose from and our team is dedicated to providing an exceptional customer service experience to those in Statesboro, Waynesboro, and the surrounding areas. We provide excellent certiied used vehicles that have undergone many quality checks.

These vehicles also come with warranty and certiied history. We believe that cus customer is king and thus customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal.

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LYTEE

2.0 “THE VISION OF 2020” STORY & PHOTOS B Y K E N WA R N O C K

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YTEE 2.0 is the latest version of what started as VISION 2020, a workforce initiative created by a collaborative of the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce, the Emanuel County Development Authority and the Emanuel County Schools System. VISION 2020 addressed attendance, workplace attire, workplace etiquette, entry level skill sets, and soft skills lacked by entry-level employees as identified by industry partners. What began as routine industry visits in the fall of 2014 quickly became much more.

Ken Warnock, CEO of the SwainsboroEmanuel County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority noticed a common theme among all the industries visited that fall. Industries in

1

JAYLEN CARSWELL / America Knits

Emanuel County were having problems finding qualified, responsible, and motivated employees.

Over the next several months, meetings were held between the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce, the Emanuel County Schools, industry representatives, and the Emanuel County Development Authority. It was decided that this group would address the workforce issue, and out of those series of meetings, VISION 2020 was created.

Counselors at Swainsboro High School and Emanuel County Institute were contacted to identify students that

could potentially fit a rubric created by the Great Promise Partnership, a state initiative to address students at risk of not graduating on time or even dropping out. “The issue we were having in Emanuel County was happening in virtually every community within our state,” Warnock stated. “The kids we were trying to identify were not the top ten percent of their graduating class, but those of the remaining 90 percent of the student body that are sometimes overlooked because of challenges they face not only at school, but also at home.”

The program started with 68 applicants, who were interviewed, scored, and EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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4 5

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2. LEANNE WRIGHT / America Knits

4. SIERRA LANDAVERDE / America Knits

3. JAVARIUS TAYLOR / R&F Marketing

5. A.J. KINGSBERRY / America Knits

ranked by the original six industry partners. Crider Foods, Nordson, Advanced Metal Components, American Steel Product, HotSet, and Interfor sent company representatives to meet the applicants as they participated in a oneday career interview blitz. Southeastern Technical College and East Georgia State College also participated, and then became the seventh and eighth partners after the interview process.

In the summer of 2019, the SwainsboroEmanuel County Chamber of Commerce, the Emanuel County

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Development Authority, and the Emanuel County Schools made the decision to revise and “re-brand” the VISION 2020 program into LYTEE 2.0., Leading Youth Through Education and Experience. The new program brought with it a new coordinator and system representative. Many other changes were made to scheduling, soft skill sessions, and more of an emphasis was made on the student’s individual preparedness, not only for the workplace but for life challenges as well.

The original two week “boot camp” has

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

6. CHASE EDENFIELD Southeastern Technical College

been upgraded to a five week “essential skills” program. The program consists of units on personal financial planning, workplace etiquette, resume building, workplace communication, safety and personal appearance in the workplace as well as social media responsibilities. In addition to the essential skills program, the students also visited six of the industry partner locations representative of the jobs available for the participants.

LYTEE 2.0 brought on a new community partner in 2019. The Swainsboro Rotary Club is providing mentoring for each

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11 12

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7. ALEXIS GLADIN / Hot Set

9. KANE BELL / Advance Metal

11. CAMERON MACK / Advance Metal

8. JAQUON CUYLER / R&F Marketing

10. BRANT PAGE / Crider

12. BRYSTON AKRIDGE / Crider

student in the program. Participating members of the club completed mentor training, underwent a background check and committed time out of their schedules to provide students with a different prospective on what the students may see as “life challenges” for the next school year. Each student will have a Rotary Club member assigned to them to communicate with regularly about challenges, program progress while continuing essential skills reinforcement. Kristin Hall, current president of the Swainsboro Rotary Club said, “Our members are committed to

improving our community, and we are excited to be involved with the school system, development authority and the chamber of commerce in the LYTEE 2.0 program. Many of our members are current or retired business owners who have a wealth of knowledge and life experience to contribute to the youth in the program. We are proud to be able to provide mentoring for the LYTEE 2.0 participants."

the state, as well as Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas, Florida and the Carolinas just to mention a few. We are very pleased with the outcome of all the partners' efforts and will continue to strive to make the program stronger, touching even more young lives in our community. The program strives to give our young people meaning and purpose which has proven to increase a person’s self-worth and will allow them the opportunity to give back to a community that gave them a chance.

The program has been a huge success.

In fact, the model here in Swainsboro is being copied by several communities in

Attendance is up dramatically, and unexcused absences are virtually a thing EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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14 13. TOMMY PORTER / Recreation Center 14. ADRIANNA FIELDS / City Hall

of the past with this group of students.

Grade point averages have increased an average of 1.8 points since the programs start in 2015. This program is a winwin-win for the entire community.

Young people are graduating that may not have otherwise, companies are getting a better trained workforce, and young citizens are paying into the system, giving them a sense of value and self-worth, rather than being forced to live off a system that is already strained.

The program, since its inception in 2015, has seen over 120 young people participate with a 100 percent graduation rate among those finishing the program. The 2019 fall semester had 19 participants at nine of the industry partner locations. Positions range from welders and forklift operations, to production technicians and logistics personnel. These and other positions at the partner industries give the students invaluable experience that can help

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them in their career choices for the rest of their lives.

Emanuel County was designated a Marquise Community by Great Promise Partnership during the spring 2018 semester. A Marquise Community is one that demonstrates a strong public/ private, industry partnership. The Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority, the City of Swainsboro, and the Emanuel County School System, working together, have created a stronger workforce through education, determination, essential skill building and life skill training, creating a better trained and motivated entry-level worker for tomorrow’s industry needs.

“We'd like to extend a special thank you to the Mill Creek Foundation for financially supporting the VISION 2020 program, for without them, the program would not be as special or successful as it has grown to the lives of over 120

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

young people in our county. Also, thank you to Dr. Kevin Judy and the board of the Emanuel County School System for their support and commitment to the program. But most of all, thank you to the industry partners; Advance Metal Components, American Steel Products, Crider Foods, East Georgia State College, HotSet, Interfor, Nordson, R&F Marketing, and Southeastern Technical College, Twin City Precision Metals, Emanuel Medical Center, East Georgia Healthcare, City of Swainsboro, the Swainsboro Rotary Club and the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Recreation Department for their trust and commitment to our community’s LYTEE 2.0 program,” said Warnock.

If you are interested in supporting or learning more about LYTEE 2.0 for your company, contact Ken Warnock at the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority for more information.

Open for lunch from 11:00 – 2:30 | Dinner from 5:00 until – Tuesday - Saturday | Community Breakfast on Saturdays from 7:00-10:30 a.m. | Full Bar An Open-Air Venue Offers Live Music Saturday Nights It also is available for weddings and special events

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P PROFILES

YOUR GUIDE TO EMANUEL COUNTY’S PEOPLE, PLACES, AND BUSINESSES Lynda has greeted the young to the young-atheart in her home in Twin City.

Southern Hospitality A LESSON IN

S T O R Y B Y LY N N B R I N S O N / / A B O V E P H O T O B Y M A R K W I L L I A M S S T U D I O

Lynda Cowart Talmadge knows a thing or two about southern hospitality. She has hosted

everything from formal dinners for high-ranking elected officials to tailgates for her beloved Georgia Bulldogs.

Inspired by her mother, Emanuel County UGA Extension Home Economist Louise Cowart, Mrs. Talmadge left the family farm to pursue her degree in Home Economics Education from the University of Georgia. After graduating, she quickly put her passion for teaching and helping others to work as UGA Extension Home Economist in Johnson County. Mrs. Talmadge firmly believes education is the key to changing lives for the better.

She continues to teach when a teachable moment arises, acknowledging the importance of being a change agent.

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ABOVE: Lynda purchased the “Miss Higginbotham House,” as it was

known locally, and dedicated two years to an extensive renovation that preserved the historic character of the Victorian home.

joined the U.S. Army as a Chaplain, she frequently entertained Military personnel from all ranks in the Army. As military wife, she volunteered with a number of organizations such as the Red Cross, thrift shops, Protestant Women of the Chapel, and served as president or vice president of the Officers’ Wives Clubs in most of the communities where they were stationed. Her contributions even earned her the title “Military Wife of the Year,” while the couple was stationed at Fort Gordon.

ABOVE: Lynda is

known for hosting scores of dinner parties, teas, and other events for family, friends, and organizations in the area.

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“I like to say that my mother and I had both a vertical relationship and a horizontal relationship,” Mrs. Talmadge said. “It was vertical in the sense of parent to child, but our horizontal relationship was due to the overlap in our careers. We worked closely together and it was rewarding for us both.”

Shortly after welcoming their son, David, Chaplain Pierce was assigned to his second tour of Vietnam.

Mrs. Talmadge returned to Wrightsville with their infant son, where she resumed her role as UGA Extension Home Economist in Johnson County. As a military wife, Mrs. Talmadge moved more than 20 times to locations stretching from Denver, Colorado to West Germany, where the family lived for four years.

Mrs. Talmadge put her training and education to work in many ways beyond her professional career.

As the wife of a Methodist minister who later

Mrs. Talmadge enjoyed her travels, especially Germany/Europe, but it was her time in Staten Island, New York where she really experienced culture shock.

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I N S P I R AT I O N

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BELOW: Inspired by her mother, Emanuel County

UGA Extension Home Economist Louise Cowart, Mrs. Talmadge left the family farm to pursue her degree in Home Economics Education from the University of Georgia.

ABOVE: Lynda with her son David Pierce, her daughter-in-law Christine, and her grandsons D.C. and Sam

at one of the many University of Georgia games she has attended.

“They were not accustomed to parents who were involved in their children’s schools and studies, or who baked brownies for the class, but I did not let that stop me. Those New Yorkers needed to know a little bit about southern hospitality,” she chuckled.

After returning to Georgia and taking a position as UGA Extension Home Economist with DeKalb County Extension Service, Mrs. Talmadge’s marriage to Chaplain Pierce ended.

“I realized then, what a blessing my education and experiences were,” Mrs. Talmadge said. “And I knew that as a single parent, the best thing I could do was to extend my education.”

Upon entering graduate school at The University of Georgia, College of Family and Consumer Science (formerly College of Home Economics), Mrs. Talmadge accepted a position as the UGA Home Economics Coordinator with the Gwinnett County Extension Service. It was in this role that she attended a March 1984 meeting of the Atlanta Farmers Club where she met the featured speaker, former Georgia Governor and U.S. Senator, Herman Talmadge.

“After his speech, he asked a mutual friend to introduce us,” she recalls. In other words, he spotted her in the audience and sent after her! “We exchanged business cards and he called me the next day to ask me out for lunch. That was the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in my life.”

After a whirlwind romance, the couple married later that year. Adjusting to life as the wife of a prominent politician, Mrs. Talmadge joined her husband in support of his political career, often accompanying him on speaking engagements and entertaining his colleagues. In their off time, they enjoyed a quiet life together at their home on Lake Talmadge in Henry County.

ABOVE: Herman

and Lynda on their wedding day.

“I was able to meet a lot of people who I would have never been able to meet before,” Mrs. Talmadge said.

“Just after we were married, I accompanied Sen. Talmadge to a Democratic Party fundraiser. It was my EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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I N S P I R AT I O N

P

“We have many skilled people in this area that can do amazing things,” she said.

The grand home has become the perfect location for Mrs. Talmadge to carry on her love for people and entertaining. She has hosted scores of dinner parties, teas, and other events for family, friends, and organizations in the area.

“As a hostess she has entertained politicians, the rich and famous, and everyday people,” said long-time friend, Kathy Palmer “Lynda always adds a good dose of her unique sense of humor and style to be sure that everyone enjoys themselves.”

The two have teamed to host a number of events to support the fundraising efforts of nonprofit organizations such as Relay for Life and the Wounded Warrior Project.

ABOVE: Judge

Kathy Palmer and Lynda are long-time friends.

‘debut’ to his colleagues – so-to-speak – approaching them was somewhat intimidating, but I soon found out right then that they were just genuine, normal people.”

At that same event, she met astronaut and Senator John Glenn. “It takes a lot to ‘wow’ me, but I was almost speechless. It was such an honor,” she added.

After about 15 years of marriage, Sen. Talmadge’s health began to decline. During that time, Mrs. Talmadge put to use her organizational skills to coordinate his daily care. “He was a fighter,” she said.

“And through those years, our love for each other grew much deeper.”

A few years after Sen. Talmadge’s death in 2002, Mrs. Talmadge, with the encouragement of her son, sister, and especially her brother, made the decision to move back home to Twin City. She purchased the “Miss Higginbotham House,” as it was known locally, and dedicated two years to an extensive renovation that preserved the historic character of the Victorian home. A particular point of pride for Mrs. Talmadge is that all work on the home was completed by craftsmen located within 20-25 mile area of Twin City.

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Since returning home, Mrs. Talmadge has worked to simplify her day-to-day activities - though she remains engaged in the community through church activities; inviting school groups into her home for class field trips; as a consummate reader, she participates in the Ida Belle Williams Book Club; she maintains the Louise E. Cowart 4-H Scholarship for local high school 4-H members; and serves as a Trustee of the East Georgia State College Foundation.

She is active at the University of Georgia, working with the Herman E. Talmadge Chair of Law and developing relationships with recipients of the Talmadge Law Scholarship, as well as serving as president of the College of Family and Consumer Sciences Alumni Association. She was a recipient of the One of 100 Alumni during The Family and Consumer Sciences Centennial Celebration, and she was honored with the title “Gracious Lady of Georgia” in 2004.

Palmer says of her close friend, “She is the consummate Southern hostess with all the charm, beauty, and charisma of storybook heroines and cinematic stars. She never stops trying to educate and help others. Lynda is indeed a gracious lady with poise and elegance.”

THE TALMADGE LEGACY

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HE TALMADGE POLITICAL LEGACY IN GEORGIA began with Eugene Talmadge, who served as the state’s Agriculture Commissioner from 1927-1933. He became the 67th Governor of Georgia, serving two terms from 1933-1937, and a third term from 1941-1943. After an unopposed race, he was elected to a fourth term in 1946.

Just weeks before beginning his fourth term, Talmadge died, leaving the seat vacant with no clear successor. Outgoing Governor Ellis Arnall and newly-elected Lieutenant Governor Melvin E. Thompson both laid claim to the Governorship. However, the General Assembly convened and elected Herman Talmadge, son of Eugene, to fill the role due to a number of writein votes during the 1946 election that earned him second place in the race.

After much controversy, the Georgia Supreme Court ruled the General Assembly’s move unconstitutional and declared in March 1947 that Thompson should serve as Governor until the next general election in 1948.

While campaigning for the upcoming election, Thompson, a native of nearby Millen and former teacher at Emanuel County Institute, and Talmadge met and shook hands in Swainsboro at the 1948 Pine Tree Festival. It was the only known face-to-face meeting of the two on the campaign trail.

The controversy surrounding the Governor’s seat was finally laid to rest when Herman Talmadge won the 1948 Special Election, becoming Georgia’s 71st Governor. After completing his second term in the role, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, where he served until 1981.

Between Eugene Talmadge and Herman Talmadge, a Talmadge held statewide office for about 50 years. This produced the “Talmadge Dynasty” who governed the State of Georgia.

This length of service has never been emulated again in the history of the state. Their influence still resonates throughout the halls of government today.

PHOTOGRAPH OF PORTRAIT BY MARK WILLIAMS STUDIO

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Recipes by Lynda Talmadge This was a favorite of my late husband….. Herman E Talmadge

STUFFED BEEF TENDERLOIN One(1) 3 pound center cut beef tenderloin ½ small onion, finely chopped ½ cup finely chopped celery 1 4 oz. can sliced mushrooms ¼ cup butter 1 ½ cups soft bread crumbs Hot water or beef bouillon Salt and pepper to taste 4 slices bacon • Have the tenderloin butterflyed at the butcher… that means split and flattened, opened like a butterfly!!!

• Lightly brown onions in butter, add celery, mushrooms, bread crumbs, add enough hot water or beef bouillon to moisten.

• Season with salt and pepper.

• Spread mixture over half of the meat.

• Bring second half of the meat over and tie together with baking twine at 1 ½” intervals. Season.

• Place bacon slices over top of meat.

• Roast, uncovered in 325 degree oven for 45 minutes to an hour.

Or until inside temperature registers 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit on meat thermometer for medium rare meat.

• Let rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.

• Makes 6 to 8 servings.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

I have made this red velvet cake recipe for each one of my son’s fifty birthdays….AND…. for his Groom’s cake, 10 recipes worth!!!

RED VELVET CAKE Ingredients: 1 cup butter…room temperature 2 cups sugar 2 eggs…room temperature 2 ½ cups cake flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup butter milk 1 teaspoon real vanilla 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder 1 Tablespoon white vinegar 4 oz. red food coloring

Method: Cream butter and sugar until light a fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each one.

Make a paste of the vinegar and cocoa powder, add this to the first mixture, beat well.

Sift, flour, soda and salt together. Begin to add the flour alternately with the buttermilk… beginning and ending with flour. Stir in the food coloring and vanilla. Mix well. Pour mixture into 3 nine (9) inch pans that have been lined with parchment paper. Bake at 325 Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes. Cake will pull away from sides of pans. Do not over bake! Turn out on cake racks and let cool completely. Frost with following recipe.

CAKE FROSTING

8 oz. cream cheese ½ cup granulated sugar 1 cup 4XXXX sugar 12 oz. extra creamy cool whip topping • Mix together cream cheese and ½ cup sugar. Beat until well blended. Add the 4XXXX sugar gradually while still beating. Mix until smooth.

• Fold in the creamy cool whip until thoroughly mixed.

• Place a cake layer on a serving plate, spread about 1/3 of the frosting across the top and down the sides of the first layer, repeat with the other two layers making sure you have covered the entire cake. Refrigeration makes the cake easier to slice. Also, this cake be frozen • Serve and enjoy.

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SE RV IC E

Erma Jenkins A LIFE OF SERVICE STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE

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RMA JENKINS IS AN EDUCATOR. Not just in a school’s classroom but also in the classroom of life. Her teaching goes beyond academics. It includes lessons for life such as perseverance, selflessness, and caring, which she teaches by example. As the daughter of a Methodist minister, she is, no doubt, practicing what she learned from her father.

While she is proud of having been the first African American Superintendent of Emanuel County, she’s more interested in using it as an example for young people of what one can accomplish. “I take this blessing very seriously because I want young folks in Emanuel County to know that regardless of what you look like or where you came from, you just need to set your goals high and work hard to achieve them, and they will come true,” she emphasizes.

She considers her greatest accomplishment, “…staying in education 40 years doing what I enjoyed.” Seeing former students whose lives she has touched is very rewarding to her. “To see the wonder of a child when they get it is a feeling that is so very hard to describe.

It is so rewarding when former students come back to tell you what a difference you made in their lives.

As superintendent, when former students came back looking for a job because I inspired them to go into education was an awesome feeling,” she said.

Apart from seeing the joy on a child’s face, one of the things she is most proud of accomplishing while superintendent is enhancing the safety of students in the wake of the Sandy Hook school shooting. “I couldn’t rest until I visited all of our schools as our students were entering to see if they were safe. That tragic incident disturbed our community as if it happened right here in Swainsboro,” she recalled. In

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

PHOTO BY JOHN RIDDLE

the wake of that tragedy, the system developed a plan to secure all school buildings with a locked entrance to protect our staff and students. “When I visit our Emanuel County Schools now and have to check-in at the office first, I thank God for the opportunity to have been a part of that effort.” Adding to that, the beginning of the partnership with the Sheriff ’s office that now provides five resource officers in the schools.

Also, during her tenure, the community passed the 1% education sales tax (ESPLOST), which allowed the school system to clear all indebtedness and complete the construction of the Pre-K Center, the last building project for Emanuel County Schools.

A music major from Fort Valley State College, she plays the piano for her home church and First African Baptist Church in Stillmore. The annual community choir for the Martin Luther King, Jr. program is one of the things she enjoys most. “It is such a tremendous joy for my husband and me because we get to work

Erma Jenkins, Emanuel County’s first African American Superintendent of Schools.

Erma with players from Emanuel County Institute’s State Single A Football Team during ECI’s Day at the Capital with State Representative Butch Parrish, Principal Barry Joiner, Coach Chris Kearson, and Speaker of the House David Ralston.

with voices across the county to present an array of gospel music.”

Though she is retired from education and facing a health problem that limits her verbal communication, it has not slowed her down. “I am still very interested in seeing our community thrive and be the haven we all want it to be for all of our citizens, but especially for our children and older citizens,” she said.

To that end, she serves as the Chair of the Emanuel County Hospital Authority because, as a two-time breast cancer survivor, she realizes the importance of having excellent healthcare close to home. “This is very personal for me,” she emphasized. “If not for the excellent mammogram equipment in our local hospital, my breast cancer might not have been identified as quickly, which allowed me to get the medical assistance I needed in both cases.”

She also serves on the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Recreation Authority, has served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Southeastern Technical College Board, and is a very active member of the Nu Upsilon Omega Chamber of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. In 2013, she was recognized as the 2013 Person of the Year for outstanding service by the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce.

She is also a very active member of Community Action for Youth whose mission is to provide a safe haven for children after school with homework help, social skills, and recreational activities. The

organization is renovating the old school gym on Gumlog Road that is almost complete. One of their signature programs is a summer program for girls called “Minding Your Manners.” A week-long program in conjunction with The Edenfield House, they provide two sessions a day for different ages teaching young girls manners and social etiquette.

Of course, of all the things she is involved in, her family is the most important. She and her husband of 47 years, also a career educator and former principal, have certainly raised their children well.

Their daughter, Dorna Taylor, is a lawyer. She and her husband also own a construction company, and they have two children (Ashlee and William IV). One son, Donald Kenny Jenkins, II, is also a lawyer. He and his wife and daughter (Kai) live in Mableton, Georgia.

Their third child, Robert has one son, Kayden, lives in Swainsboro with his wife and son (Darius) and works for Price Fibres in Collins, Georgia.

She still finds time for hobbies. She has recently taken up crafting, which she loves. Of course, music remains a constant in her life but, perhaps her biggest joy comes from being a grandmother. “Most of all I enjoy being with my grandchildren,” she said. “Spoiling them and sending them home to their parents is the best part.”

Erma Jenkins is and will remain an educator. And, for a woman who has trouble communicating verbally due to her medical condition, she still speaks volumes about who she is, what she cares about, and the example she sets through volunteering.

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For more about our training programs, visit interfor.com/employeedevelopment Interfor is one of the largest, most diverse lumber companies in the world and we’re growing in exciting directions. Join our Swainsboro Division.

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INTERFOR AT A GLANCE 50+ 50 + YEARS YEARS SERVING SERVING GLOBAL GLOBAL MARKETS

MARKETS

3,100 3,100

EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES USA: 1900+

USA: 1900+ CANADA: 1100+ CANADA: 1100+

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MILLS

4

DISTINCT MANUFACTURING REGIONS BC INTERIOR BC COAST US NORTHWEST US SOUTH

REMEMBERING

tribute

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HE EMANUEL COUNTY COMMUNITY was saddened on April 12, 2019 when Herman Grady Yeomans, III (H.G.) passed away. He started Yeomans Wood and Timber Company in 1979, a wood procurement organization. Over the next 40 years, he worked to expand Yeoman’s Wood & Timber to include several logging crews and a log yard that are all operating today.

A community growth advocate, he served on the Emanuel County Board of Commissioners, Swainsboro/Emanuel County Development Authority, Emanuel County Hospital Authority, Citizens Review Panel for Transportation Investment Act, and the Forestry Advisory Board for Swainsboro Technical College. H.G. was also involved in youth activities, serving as coach and Vice President for Dixie Youth Baseball for many years.

The son of a former Emanuel County Sheriff and Georgia State Trooper, H.G. learned the desire to serve his state, as well. He was elected by his peers, to serve on the Georgia Forestry Association Board of Directors and was appointed

by Governor Purdue to serve on the board of the Georgia Forestry Commission.

An avid hunter, H.G. loved to take hunting trips both locally and nationwide. His most special times however, were

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to H. G. Yeomans teaching his kids and grandkids a love for the outdoors. He absolutely loved being a part of his children’s lives and lived to watch the grandkids play ball, dance, hunt and fish. For all his earthly accomplishments, his wife, kids, and precious grandchildren were his proudest blessings.

Carol Free Yeomans, wife of H.G. for over 47 years, and their children Russ Yeomans and Beth Adams, expressed to their community in a thank you note that appeared in the local paper. They stated, “H.G. loved this community so much and his community loved him back. What was most important to him was investing back into this community. He did through his support of growth and development, and by pouring himself into the next generations of Emanuel Countians. He always wanted a place where his kids and grandkids could find a job, earn a respectable living and raise families in a community where love was prevalent. Our sincere hope is that his memory will live on as we support Emanuel County through economic development and by loving and investing time in all our kids. That is what will keep Emanuel strong.

This is where love and prosperity will abide. That is what H.G. would do and that is what his family will do.”

May we all have a heart and selflessness of H.G. Yeomans to help Emanuel County continue to thrive and be a wonderful community for future generations.

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FAMILY PRACTICE Swainsboro Healthcare James Clifton, DO Mary Jo Greenway, FNP 305 Kite Road • Swainsboro 478-237-2144

INTERNAL MEDICINE Swainsboro Internal Medicine Anthony Howard, MD Anna Williams, PA 131 A Victory Drve • Swainsboro 478-237-8342

Ray Medical Clinic James Ray, MD Thomas J. Ferrari, MD Michael Edenneld, FNP-C Gabrielle Story, PA 401 W. Main Street • Swainsboro 478-237-9928

South Georgia Internal Medicine Vjitha Prasad, MD Megan Knight, NP Pamela Love, NP 544 W.Church Steet • Swainsboro 478-237-2527

Porter Medical Clinic Cedric Porter, MD Amanda S. Jarriel, FNP-C 124 Victory Drive • Swainsboro 478-237-5506 Twin City Family Medical Clinic Michael Wheelis, MD Clai Claire Ault, NP 115 Gillikin Street • Twin City 478-763-3036 Smith Clinic Anthony Howard, MD Mason Smith, PA-C Wilder Smith, PA Jenie Jeniece Cromartie, NP 114 South Jefferson Street • Swainsboro 478-237-7517 Emanuel Healthcare Center Michael Wheelis, MD Jodi Gilmer, PA 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro (On the second oor) 478-289-1240

OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY Benjamin Oldham, MD Chelsea Jones Mikell, MD Shannon Hall PC-A 125 B Victory Drve • Swainsboro 478-419-1250 SURGERY Emanuel Surgical Associates William Brad Headley, MD, General Surgery H. Dorsey Flanders, MD, General Surgery Roberto Barja, MD, Orthopedic Surgery Phillip Boatright, Jr. PA-C General & Orthopedic Ankur Goel, MD Colon & Rectal Surgery Mark Mudano, MD, Orthopedic Surgery 120A Victory Drve • Swainsboro 478-237-3291

AFTER HOURS CARE Emanuel Medical Center – Second Floor Urgent Care Weekend Clinic Non-Emergency Conditions 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro Mondays 5:00 – 8:00 pm Thursdays 5:00 – 8:00 pm Saturday 10am – 6:00pm Sunday 1:00pm- 6pm 478-289-1240 WOUND CARE Emanuel Wound Care Center Anthony Davis, MD Nick Luecke, NP-C 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro (On the second oor) 478-289-1126 HOSPITAL Emanuel Medical Center 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro 478-289-1100 NURSING HOME Our Home at Emanuel Medical Center 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro 478-237-1334

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Senior Behavioral Health Center David P. Samuels, DO Rhonda Stanneld, NP 117 Kite Road • Swainsboro 478-289-1169

Emanuel Medical Center provides families in the Emanuel County area and surrounding communities with quality care that is close to home.

We are dedicated to delivering exceptional advanced medical attention in a respectful and caring environment.

www.emanuelmedical.org

COMMUNITY

BRINGING CAMPUS

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to the Community at

THE MORGAN HOUSE STORY AND PHOTO PROVIDED BY E A S T G E O R G I A S TAT E C O L L E G E

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N THE FIRST FRIDAY of every month, Swainsboro residents traveling on West Moring Street are treated to the sight of the former home of Jimmy and Jean Morgan lit up and full of fun and laughter. Cars line the streets, and the East Georgia State College Bobcat Express picks up and drops off students throughout the evening.

Donated to East Georgia State College in 2015 by the Morgan family, The Morgan House has become a fixture in EGSC’s continuing focus on bringing the community and college closer together.

In addition to the monthly First Friday events, which are hosted by different campus groups and feature music and art as well as refreshments, The Morgan House also functions as a place for groups to hold meetings or retreats, couples to stage wedding photos, and more.

Jimmy and Jean Morgan were involved in the life of East Georgia State College for many years. Mrs. Morgan served as the first Chair of the EGSC Foundation and founded the Vision Series to help bring musical events, well-known speakers, authors, and other dignitaries to the campus for the benefit of the students, faculty, staff, and the community. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan were a fixture at events on campus and were regular donors to the Foundation. The Student Activities Center at the EGSCSwainsboro campus was named for

Mrs. Morgan because of her hard work assuring the center would be built. It is now affectionately referred to as the JAM Center (for Jean Anderson Morgan).

The philanthropy of the Morgan’s and their willingness to serve their community is reflected in their gift of The Morgan House, and East Georgia State College continues to uphold their commitment to furthering the community through their use of the home.

"Every town has its special houses, and I don't want to make anybody mad, but we don't all live in special houses. This is a special house," said Swainsboro Mayor Charles Schwabe at the Open House in May of 2015. "Dr. Boehmer and I have had many conversations about how to bring the community and the college closer together because it is a win-win.

For this wonderful family to make this wonderful gesture puts us out ahead in the race.”

Gay Fournier, daughter of the Morgan’s, said at the event, “Today is what I see as a pivotal point as the house goes from being our family center to us having a bigger family that embraces all of you.”

EGSC has tried to live up to the incredible legacy left behind by the

Morgans. Mr. Morgan passed away in 2014, and Mrs. Morgan in 2019. Their home continues to uphold their legacy of community service and has held almost 90 events since the official opening in the summer of 2015.

The community is encouraged to join us at The Morgan House on the first Friday of each month and keep an eye out for other opportunities to enjoy this extraordinary gift.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES AT THE MORGAN HOUSE: • First Friday at The Morgan House • Mill Creek Foundation Meetings • EGSC’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Induction Ceremonies • Non-Agenda Club Luncheons • Daughters of the American Revolution Meetings • Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours • EGSC Cabinet Strategic Planning Retreats • First United Methodist Church Pre-K Easter Egg Hunt • EGSC’s Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society Induction Ceremony • Staff Leadership Development Program • EGSC Department Christmas Gatherings • EGSC Art Department Semester Finals • EGSC Student Government Association Workshop • Morgan House Yard Sale • Work-Day at The Morgan House

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Voted Best Florist

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E D U C AT I O N

David Emanuel Academy Celebrates

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50 Years!

STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y D AV I D E M A N U E L A C A D E M Y

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ince the Fall of 1969, David Emanuel Academy, DEA, has grown to encompass pre-k through twelfth-grade students. This year, the school celebrated 50 years of traditions and strong academic curricula, and its faculty, students and alumni are looking forward to the next 50 years!

DEA has seen many changes over the years, not least of which are the advances in technology. “We are in a very fastpaced world,” said Haylee Folk-Free, DEA’s head of school.

“Information is so INSTANT! The number of communication methods are endless. DEA uses text messaging, email, and social media to spread information fast! DEA has a Student Information Software, Sycamore, to bridge the gap between parents, students, and teachers. The software is used for financials, grades, and calendars. Policies have definitely changed over the course of time—as it is critical to keep up with the ever-changing times.”

Free began her work with DEA as a part-time elementary Bible teacher, Over the next seven years, she would serve as an elementary computer teacher, elementary Spanish teacher, and high school SAT prep teacher. Her role then grew to full-time Director of Development, then Interim Head of School, and in May of 2018, she was named Head of School. Free’s family is tied to DEA as well. Her husband, Bill, received all of his formative schooling at DEA, and his father, Jim Free, served on the Board of Trustees for many years. “Bill’s family has deep roots in and tremendous love for DEA,” Haylee said.

In addition to the Frees’ history with DEA, Dana DaughtryDurden, the school’s most tenured educator, has spent her entire career, since 1990, as a first-grade teacher. Durden herself went to DEA, where her mother was also an educator. After graduating from Georgia Southern College, Durden came home to teach at her alma mater. “[Dana] has been a loyal student, alumna, and staff member of DEA,” said Free. There is a rich pattern of growth at DEA, from its students and teachers to its educational model.

According to the school’s website, “In its first year of operation the school was directed by local business owner and parent, Mrs. Virginia Snell, and originally consisted of only grades first

David Emanuel Academy alumna, Malia Newsome

through eighth. Within the next year, under the supervision of Mr. David Beecher, the school’s enrollment increased to encompass twelve grades. It was during his tenure that the school expanded its faculty and extracurricular offerings to help guide DEA into becoming the school it is today.

“David Emanuel Academy currently draws students from 7 surrounding counties and has consistently produced both athletic and literary graduates who succeed in continuing with their advanced education. It continues to be a cornerstone of success by nurturing a family atmosphere, providing strong academic curriculum, encouraging athletic involvement, and spiritually connecting them all together.”

“It is always our goal to have continuous improvement across the board,” said Free. “We also want to stay true to our mission—always making decisions in line with Christian principles. As a leader of DEA, it is important to me to teach the children the "bigger picture" in every situation, keeping true to Christian values.” Our motto for the last year has been #teamDEA. This motto is so true of our village, and it does take a village to keep DEA strong within our communities. Working together as a team, we strive to keep making changes that will better our school and better us as followers of the Lord.

DEA Head of School Haylee Folk Free EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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LEADERSHIP

LEADING THE WAY TO SUCCESS STORY AND PHOTO BY CONNIE K. RIDDLE

As great leaders do, Calhoun credited his entire team for making this possible.

“A great leader possesses a clear vision, is courageous, has integrity, honesty, humility, and clear focus. ... Great leaders help people reach their goals, are not afraid to hire people that might be better than them, and take pride in the accomplishments of those they help along the way.” - Unknown

When speaking with Larry, you immediately feel his passion for Southeastern Technical College, its students, the instructors, and the overall success of the college. He knows every statistic, program offering, challenge, opportunity, plans for the future, and every other detail one would need to know.

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ARRY CALHOUN is the ultimate example of a great leader. With 30 years of service as a member of the United States Air Force in a variety of flying, staff, and leadership positions, he had a long and distinguished career with fourteen assignments, including time in Southeast Asia, a stint at the Pentagon, and as a flying squadron commander. He has more than 7,000 combined military and civilian flight hours. His military decorations include the Air Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Calhoun could have comfortably retired after his service to our country, but instead, he chose to continue being a leader. This time, his service was in the classroom at the former Georgia Aviation Technical College in Eastman.

While there, he was a classroom instructor, chief flight instructor, academic program chair, and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs.

Though he never saw himself in the educational field, in October 2015, Larry was named President of Southeastern

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Technical College, where he had served as Provost from 2009 – 2015. Before that, he was President of Swainsboro Technical College from 2007 – 2009 when the two schools merged.

Upon recommending Calhoun as president in 2015, Commissioner Gretchen Corbin said, “Larry Calhoun is an exceptional administrator who has proven through his past leadership roles that he is an excellent choice to be the next president of Southeastern Technical College. He has devoted his career to serving students, from being a classroom instructor to the president of a technical college, and he fully comprehends the educational needs of our students as well as the business and industry needs in the community.”

That decision has served the school well.

In 2016, Southeastern Technical College was named Technical College of the Year.

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

He loves his job. “The people are what I enjoy most. I work with great people who care and are motivated. I truly look forward to going to work every day,” he emphasized. “We have 140 full-time employees, and there is not a single one that I wish would leave. The best thing a leader can do is to develop the people working with him, test them, give them challenges, encourage them, and support them. I am confident that when the time comes, there will be qualified people to fill my shoes.”

Calhoun is very involved in the Swainsboro community. He currently serves on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is in line to be Chairman.

Calhoun sees Southeastern Technical College, and the Technical College System of Georgia, as an incredible resource to educate, employ and train the pool of talent in our communities.

“Through collaborations with industries, providing adult education, helping high school students earn college credit

through Dual Enrollment, and helping the non-traditional student find that skill to gain viable employment, our technical colleges are having a huge impact on our communities,” he explained.

Calhoun was born in Vidalia, grew up in Tarrytown, Georgia, and is a graduate of Montgomery County High School in Mt. Vernon, Georgia. He has a B.S. degree in Zoology from the University of Georgia, a Masters of Public Administration from Golden Gate University, and an Education Specialist Degree in Occupational Studies from the University of Georgia.

He is married to the former Debbie Morrison of Vidalia. They have three daughters, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

SOUTHEASTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

BY THE NUMBERS: • APPROXIMATELY 2,500 STUDENTS SERVED THROUGH CREDIT PROGRAMS, 1,000 THROUGH ADULT EDUCATION AND 16,000 THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION EACH YEAR • 15 ASSOCIATE DEGREES, 23 DIPLOMAS, AND OVER 60 CERTIFICATES OFFERED • 27 PROGRAM AREAS AND HUNDREDS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS Counties served include Candler, Emanuel, Jenkins, Johnson, Montgomery, Tattnall, Toombs & Treutlen • 92% JOB PLACEMENT RATE IN FIELD OF STUDY AND 99% JOB PLACEMENT FOR ALL THAT GRADUATE • #1 REGISTERED NURSE PROGRAM IN THE STATE IN 2017

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Yeoman’s & Aociates, Inc. Independent Agent Serving Emanuel County for over 25 years.

Providing all lines of insurance: • Auto • Home

478-237-3109

• Business • Life

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm 109 S. Circle Drive • Swainsboro, GA 30401 • yeoassoc@bellsouth.net

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home

IS WHERE YOUR HEART IS For Mitch and Kristin Hall – Their Hearts are in Swainsboro STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE / PHOTO BY JOHN RIDDLE

THE ONE PLACE MITCH AND KRISTIN HALL NEVER THOUGHT THEY’D LIVE WAS THEIR HOMETOWN OF SWAINSBORO. BUT THEY DIDN’T HESITATE AFTER THE ONE THING THAT MITCH THOUGHT WOULD BE THE ONLY REASON HE’D MOVE BACK, BECAME A POSSIBILITY.

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HOME

back to school that weekend, and Mitch stayed in Swainsboro to make arrangements on Monday to purchase the store,” Kristin explained. By December 31, they were the new owners, had moved back and opened the store under new ownership in January 2009.

“I had spent many years trying to figure out what to do in business for myself. I always liked the store.

When we left Swainsboro, I told Kristin the only reason we’d ever go back is if we bought that store,” Mitch explained. “It’s best when you can come back on your terms. That’s what we were able to do. We had talked about moving back. When we decided to buy the store, we sold our house in two weeks. There is no way we could have planned it.”

Owning and operating a convenience store was not new to Kristin. Her grandmother owns three in Millen, Georgia. One, she runs herself at 89 years old.

And, she feels it is a natural fit for Mitch. “He can sell ice to an Eskimo,” she said with a laugh.

PHOTO BY KELLIE CANNADY

Mitch and Kristin with their three children, Camden (9), Brooks (5), and Ivy (3).

They agree that Swainsboro is a great place to raise a family.

Though they are natives of Swainsboro and both attended Swainsboro High School, they didn’t know each other well. “I knew her from being an ‘overachiever’ in high school,” Mitch deadpanned.

They did meet when she was a senior. Mitch had already graduated. They ended up both being in Athens – Kristin to attend the University of Georgia, Mitch, for work. That’s where they started dating and were married in 2007 a year before she graduated.

They moved home in 2009.

But what precipitated such a “kwik” decision after having no desire to ever move back? The place Mitch worked seven days a week when he was 16 years old.

The place the former owner says Mitch told him he would buy one day. One of the few places you can fill up your car, purchase a gun, and get breakfast all in one place — the chance to own the Kwik Shop.

“We stopped by while home on Thanksgiving break in 2008. The owner told Mitch it was for sale. I went

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

The store has a personality and character that are unique. Though they are the #1 independent retailer of Coca-Cola in their region, none of Coca-Cola’s studies support any of the Kwik Shop’s tactics. The store is diverse. “It’s not quite a general store. We have guns to grease (for cooking), which makes it hard to renew insurance each year,” Mitch explained.

Biscuits and club sandwiches are their leading sellers.

Customers can stop for breakfast and get gas, beer, ammo, snacks, and yes – a coke – all on the same trip.

Kristin worked with Mitch at the Kwik Shop with not much thought of what she would do next. Two years later, the incumbent Clerk of Court announced he was retiring just before the last day of qualifying.

“There was one week between qualifying and when the former clerk announced he was retiring. In five days, I went from never thinking about running for any office to paying a qualifying fee to run for Clerk of Court,” she said. “I had always had thought about being a lawyer, so at least this was in the legal environment.”

She won the election without a run-off in a field of three candidates. In July 2012, she was elected the Clerk of Court for Emanuel County.

Kristin was elected as Clerk of Court for Emanuel County in 2012.

“IN FIVE DAYS, I WENT FROM NEVER THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR ANY OFFICE TO PAYING A QUALIFYING FEE TO RUN FOR CLERK OF COURT.” – Kristin Halll

“It was a ‘God thing,’” Kristin says, referring to how everything seemed to line up for her eligibility to run. One of the requirements to qualify for that office is to have lived in the county for two years. “Two years earlier, we had moved home after deciding to purchase the Kwik Shop in a matter of a few days.

Our house in Athens sold in two weeks, so we moved immediately. We were back in Swainsboro for two years when I decided to qualify for office. It all lined up perfectly.”

PHOTO BY JOHN RIDDLE

Kristin is proud of what has been accomplished since she was elected in 2012, including the move to digital records. “This not only helps in everyday use but also for historic preservation. We’ve also updated software and streamlined processes for the sake of efficiency.

We are one person less than when I took office,” she explained.

Mitch and Kristin have certainly settled in well to their lives back home. They agree it is a great place to raise a family. “I can’t imagine raising my kids in a big city. The small-town environment of raising kids - knowing your neighbors, the support of family and friends, is a tremendous help,” Kristin said.

Kristin’s parents, Wayne and Judy Cannady, Mitch’s Dad, Dave Hall, along with all of their siblings, live in Swainsboro. Mitch’s Mom and her husband, Mary and David Lawson, live out of town but visit twice a month and for all school functions.

They also feel it is a great place to own a business.

“The support among the business community makes it better to own a business. You feel like everybody’s in it together,” Kristin said. And, they are involved in helping make it that way.

Kristin is the president of the Rotary Club, secretary of the hospital foundation, and past president of the Chamber of Commerce. She is also a co-chair of the historic theater at the Karrh Center. Mitch is a member of the hospital authority and supports multiple organizations in their fundraising efforts, including schools and churches, Wounded Warriors, Shriners Hospitals, Ducks Unlimited, Wild Turkey Federation, and others. They are also active members at First Baptist Swainsboro, where Kristin leads a children’s choir and where Mitch has served on the board of trustees.

PHOTO BY KELLIE CANNADY

In addition to their children, Camden (9), Brooks (5), and Ivy (3), they’re seeking to make a difference in the lives of the children around them. Kristin works with a mentoring program for middle school girls. Mitch interacts with the kids who frequent the Kwik Shop, which is more than just a business to them. “They come by in the mornings with their Dads. It’s more than a store…it’s an experience to them,” Mitch said.

Kristin agreed, “Mitch works to make it that way – not just for repeat business – but because he sees it as an outreach.”

Mitch behind the counter at the Kwik Shop.

“WHEN WE LEFT SWAINSBORO, I TOLD HER THE ONLY REASON WE’D EVER GO BACK IS IF WE BOUGHT THAT STORE.” – Mitch Hall

“It is famously quoted that ‘home is where your heart is.’ Swainsboro is that for both of us. Our home is here, we are raising our children here, we are running a business here, and serving the citizens here. We are blessed with the best customers, and family, and friends. When we look back over the past fifteen years, everything points to Swainsboro and Emanuel County. Our hearts are here, and we are proud to call it home.”

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SHOPPING

A Shopper’s

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Paradise

Story by LYNN BRINSON | Photography by GAMBRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

NESTLED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN SWAINSBORO, the Main Street Market is a shopper’s paradise. With a variety of antiques, arts, crafts, and unique gifts filling an expansive 12,000 square foot facility, the market offers a one-of-akind shopping experience that brings visitors back time and time again.

A project of the Downtown Development Authority of Swainsboro (DDA), the Main Street Market was opened in 2011 as a creative solution to some of the Great Recession’s effects on the community.

With high commercial vacancy rates, a need for more local retail outlets, and a lack of display and merchandising space for the area’s thriving arts community, the DDA, with the help of a Tourism Product Development Grant from the Georgia Department of Economic Development, worked to renovate the vacant space into a vibrant retail anchor.

Structured like an antique mall, the Main Street Market rents small blocks of retail space to individual dealers who stock their spaces with EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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ABOVE: Lynn Brinson, Director of Downtown Development; Michael Bright, Manager of Main Street Market; and Mary Ann Smith have worked together to make the Main Street Market a major draw for tourists.

inventory. Opening with just 14 vendors, the business has continued to thrive, now featuring more than 60 vendor booths. Each booth boasts its own unique identity, ranging from fine antiques, to home décor, to collectible glassware, to “mantiques,” a term used to describe antique tools, vintage sports memorabilia, and the like.

Due to its convenient location, the Main Street Market is a popular rest stop for travelers making their way along US Highway 1, US Highway 80, or I-16. It’s the friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and variety of inventory; however, that have made the market a destination of its own, drawing visitors from around the globe.

“In the last few years, our guest book has been signed by visitors from all 50 states and 16 countries,” said Michael Bright, manager of the Main Street Market. “The top comment that we get is how clean and organized the store is, and that is something I take great pride in,” he continued.

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SHOPPING

Bright is no stranger to the business, having owned and operated a number of antique and craft malls over the years. He first pursued his passion as an antiques dealer in Charleston, SC, operating one of the largest antique malls in the area and opening the first craft mall in the state. Having achieved international success as a Southern Gospel recording artist, Bright planted his roots in Swainsboro and opened a local antique shop. He later joined the Main Street Market as its manager in 2014 and has continuously expanded the business since.

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ABOVE: While shopping at the Main Street Market, customers often encounter the friendly face of Mary Ann Smith, a local historian who works at the market. In addition to assisting guests, she is also the co-author of many local history books published by the Emanuel County Historic Preservation Society and sold in the shop. “Miss Mary Ann,” as she is known to regulars, is always eager to share interesting stories and local history, and it is not uncommon for visitors to leave the Main Street Market with a newly discovered connection to Emanuel County after a conversation with her.

With new merchandise arriving daily, customers are treated to a fresh, new shopping experience with each visit. For many, the market provides a walk down memory lane as they point out items reminiscent of their childhoods, such as the “penny candy” jars that held their favorite treats, or the china patterns used by their grandmothers. For others, the Main Street Market is the perfect place to buy a unique wedding gift, repurposed furniture, or seasonal décor.

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SHOPPING

ABOVE: Along with the local history books available for purchase at the Main Street Market, the shop also features an area dedicated to goods handcrafted in Emanuel County. The “locally made” booth is the perfect place to purchase one-of-akind souvenirs and gifts, including art, jewelry, pottery, music recorded by local musicians, and books written by local authors.

Joyce Allen considers the Main Street Market to be a tremendous asset to the community. “I just love the place,” she said. “There is always something interesting and exciting there.”

In addition to the climate controlled atmosphere and easy maneuverability of the market, vendor Cheryl Cox notes the staff as the key that sets the Main Street Market apart from the rest.

“The people here are so friendly and helpful,” she said. “Even with thousands of different items in the store, if you are looking for something specific, they can take you right to it.”

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The Main Street Market is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. It is located at 215 West Main Street in downtown Swainsboro, and its rear entrance from The Boneyard offers ample parking that can accommodate large vehicles such as busses and RVs. The market also features a rest area, where customers can enjoy a cool drink and complimentary WiFi. To keep up with news from the Main Street Market, including new merchandise, follow along on Facebook @ MainStreetMarketSwainsboro.

Whitney Farmer, Owner

119 Roger Shaw Street | Swainsboro, GA 30401

478-268-4762

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Jim’s Meat Sauce The Future is Bright for this Third Generation Business

STORY BY CONNIE RIDDLE P H O T O G R A P H Y P R O V I D E D B Y J I M’ S M E AT S A U C E

produced in a shed in the backyard until Jimmy passed away in 2001.

A family friend, Bobby Dixon from Girard, Georgia, carried on the operations of Jim’s Meat Sauce before Jamey Oglesby and his wife, Rhonda, took back the family reigns.

Jamey and Rhonda built a commercial kitchen in Swainsboro and incorporated the business. They expanded the products and created new versions of the sauce. One of the most popular, a hot sauce, was created by Rhonda. With the help of their three children, Drake, Dilan, and Madison, Jim’s Meat Sauce became a household product in Southeast Georgia and thrived from 2006 to 2012. During those years, the children helped by stirring the sauce (which must be continuously stirred while it’s cooking), labeling bottles, and capping the sauce. This type of attention to detail continues today.

Drake Oglesby, Jamey & Rhonda’s oldest child, is known for his drive and success. His resume is quite impressive and includes being a former radio personality, digital media producer, and culinary arts student. He and wife Elizabeth also co-own OglesbyNoles Productions, a multi-entertainment and event company.

Drake Oglesby became the owner and CEO of Jim’s Meat Sauce in 2014.

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HE STATISTICS MAY VARY on how many third-generation businesses survive. Some say only 13% will survive, and others say less.

Fortunately, it looks like the future for Jim’s Meat Sauce is much brighter.

In 2014, while employed at Georgia Southern University, Drake thought to continue the legacy Jimmy Oglesby had started. At age 24, Drake returned home to the kitchen he had worked in as a teenager, and took over Jim's Meat Sauce. So, now add to his resume, owner & CEO of Jim’s Meat Sauce.

Started by Jimmy Oglesby in 1985, Jim’s Meat Sauce came about as a way for Jimmy to sell more meat.

Jimmy was a butcher and thought if there were a great sauce to accompany the meat, he would increase his sales. It turned out, however, that Jimmy ended up selling more sauce than meat. The sauce was

A lot of things remain the same with the business, but a lot has changed as well. The same attention to detail and customer service is a top priority. They still hand label and hand-cap each bottle of sauce. It is common at their busiest times for Drake’s parents and siblings to be in the kitchen helping… just like the old days.

SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

The same attention to detail and customer service is a top priority.

They still hand label and hand-cap each bottle of sauce.

Jim’s Meat Sauce

The Future is Bring for this Third Generation Business Story by Connie Riddle / Photography Provided by Jim’s Meat Sauce

Today, they sell approximate 6000 bottles of Jim's Meat Sauce each year.

New to Jim’s Meat Sauce is the co-packing side of the business. Co-packing is geared toward individuals or restaurants who want to sell their sauces or spices commercially. Drake takes their recipes and bottles them. They take care of production, manufacturing, and certification of the product to meet state guidelines. The venture has been successful because he has found a niche catering to customers who are interested in small scale production.

LEFT: Drake with

his granddad, Jimmy Oglesby.

Jimmy produced his meat sauce in a shed in his backyard until he died in 2001.

The company has gained a tremendous amount of momentum since April 2019 and has added a new client each month with even more lined up.

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Grown

LEFT: Drake is increasing sales with mobile carts making Jim’s Meat Sauce accessible to more customers.

When asked his greatest challenge, Drake replies, “Growth is our biggest challenge and how to manage it effectively and efficiently without losing the personal touch we have with our customers.” That is not an easy challenge when the company staff includes Drake and two part-time employees. These three do everything from making and bottling the sauces, labeling and capping the bottles, delivering to suppliers, generating new sales, and managing the business. All of this, in addition to another company he runs.

The future is bright for Jim’s Meat Sauce under the direction of Drake Oglesby. He is “enjoying the ride” of carrying on the third-generation family business and keeping the legacy alive.

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

Arts

& CULTURE

FOR THE

Love of Music

DOUG JOHNSON HAS BECOME VERY SUCCESSFUL FOLLOWING HIS LOVE OF MUSIC, BUT HE HAS NEVER FORGOTTEN HIS ROOTS

D

oug Johnson has had a 30-plus year career as a songwriter, including seven number-one hits and ten “Top 10’s” by everyone from Bertie Higgins and Alicia Bridges to George Strait, Rascal Flatts, Trace Adkins, Wynonna, Clay Walker, Don Williams, Kenny Rogers, and Randy Travis. He even made history when he broke a country music record with the hit, Love Like Crazy, recorded by artist Lee Brice, which spent an amazing 56 weeks on the charts and was Billboard’s Song of the Year. But, no matter how far up the ladder of success he goes, he credits his family, especially his Dad, for introducing him to the love of music. And, he never forgets the people and events that helped him along the way, including the community he grew up in, Swainsboro, Georgia.

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DOUG JOHNSON

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ABOVE: Playing the Bluebird Cafe with Abby Anderson. “Always a fun place to

play.” – Doug

ABOVE: With Bobby Bones (blue t-shirt) top country radio talent in the world.

He also won “Dancing With the Stars.”

Doug’s youth was not unlike most other teens in Swainsboro in the 1980s. Except “…there was music everywhere,” he recalls.

“My dad was a great piano player and a good singer. My mom, sister, and I would sing with him. You couldn’t marry, have a BBQ, or celebrate a holiday without ending up around a piano,” Doug recalled. “As far as entertaining, I couldn’t ‘tie his shoestrings,’” he said. “Walter Chance and Daddy were good friends, and nobody could entertain like them.”

He played guitar, piano, and sang in local bands and remembers local musicians his age who influenced him as well. “Phil Wilson was a really good drummer and singer, an incredible entertainer. And, Jack Whitehead was a great guitarist. I initially started thinking about writing songs because I knew I couldn’t play guitar like that,” he explained. He even credits his cousin, Wayne Sammons, for having the “best record collection” that influenced him as well. A turning point was a youth revival at Hillcrest Baptist Church. After that, he started writing and playing Christian music as well.

One thing that he realized during that influential time in his life was, "If you played good songs and had fun, you could entertain people," he said. So, a week after high school, he was off to Opry Land, USA, to audition to be an entertainer for the Summer.

But he arrived too late and was offered a job as a busboy instead in one of the park's restaurants. However, soon they had him in the corner playing guitar instead of busing tables. "Then, there was an opening in the show, and I was asked to join," he said.

Always looking to learn from his experiences, he recalled, "I learned how you could take good talent and, done right, could be great entertainment.”

He moved home to attend junior college and went back to Opryland the following Summer. The next year he went to River

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ABOVE: With Kelsea Ballerini, John Marks (Spotify), Gordon Kerr (CEO Black

River Ent), and Kellie Pickler.

Street in Savannah, where he was, "…making good money, cash, playing in a club with a restaurant where they would feed me.” He was only 19 then and was doing pretty good for a struggling young musician trying to make a name for himself.

In his time off, he’d go hear a songwriter and musician who was 49 years old playing in a local bar. "One Sunday he called me and said, 'Doug, I'm 49, and I can't do anything else but this.

All my people are coming to see you and Herb,’” Doug recalled.

Herb was his best friend, banjo player, and “coolest guy in the world,” from Millen, Georiga. "That night, I dreamed I was a 49-year-old musician calling a 20-year-old aspiring musician."

That was all he needed to make up his mind on his next move.

He called his Dad and talked over his plan to move to Atlanta.

He landed a scholarship to attend Georgia State University and had an internship with The Lowery Group. Soon, he was hired as a recording engineer at Southern Tracks recording studio.

LEFT: Kelsea Ballerini, Abby

Anderson, Jacob Davis and a few Black River staff at CRS Radio Convention.

Arts

& CULTURE

LEFT: Doug and his wife,

Lisa, at the Country Music Awards where Doug’s song, Three Wooden Crosses, won CMA, ACM, CGMA, DOVA, NSAI, Billboard and Grammy Awards.

In his spare time, he kept writing songs. Eventually, he made his way to Nashville, Tennessee, with encouragement from friends in the industry. His first break came when Christy Lane recorded a song he wrote that made it to the “Top 10.” “That kept me from starving to death,” he recalled.

He moved back to Atlanta. While he kept one foot in the recording studio, he was spending more time writing and producing. The Burch Sisters, from Wayne County, Georgia, asked him to produce their first album. Soon, he was working with major stars like Dolly Parton, Ricky Scaggs, and others in the studio. In October 1991, he became Vice President of Artists & Repertoire for Epic Records. Currently, he is Vice President of A&R for Blackriver Entertainment, home of country star Kelsea Ballerini. “I’ve worked for four different record labels within 100 yards of each other in Nashville. It really is a small town,” he explained.

Through the years, he's gotten to know major stars and finds them to be down to earth and very likable… much like we would hope they would be. Hank Williams, Jr., whose album was the first one Doug ever bought, Patty Lovelace, Wynonna, are all artists he's been in the recording studio with. He signed Blake Shelton, who he says is, "… the same person you see on television."

In 2005, he was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

His song Three Wooden Crosses, which he wrote with his best friend Kim Williams, was “Song of the Year” in 2004. “That song won every Song of the Year award a song could win in country music,” he said.

These days, he is still working at BlackRiver Entertainment, searching for new talent and helping established talent navigate their often-new-found stardom. "I am constantly looking for new artists and songs for artists. Getting them in the room with

songwriters I think are a good fit and work with them on their live shows," he explains. He also helps ensure they maintain a good life balance. "It's not easy being an artist and especially a famous artist."

After work, he picks up writing. "I become a songwriter about six o'clock every day," he said. “My sweet wife, Lisa, is a publisher, so she understands." Collaborating with others is an integral part of his writing too. “I write with a lot of young writers as well as Pat Bunch, who is an angel and 80 years young,” he explained.

Of all the songs he’s written and helped others record, other than the songs for his wife and children, he does have a favorite, Til the Last Shot’s Fired. It was recorded by Trace Atkins and the West Point Choir and has been used on Wounded Warriors commercials for ten years, free of charge. His most poignant memory of the song was when he was asked to play it for WWII veterans with some of the children who were once on a train bound for a Nazi death camp.

And he has favorite moments throughout his career, such as, “… seeing young kids come to Nashville with a dream thinking they can change the world and then seeing that come to fruition.”

Doug Johnson has come a long way from his young days in Swainsboro dreaming of “changing the world” with a song. He feels very fortunate. “I get to do what I love and make a living at it,” he explains. But he never gets too far from his roots and those who introduced him to the world of music. “I talk to my dad in my heart every day and thank him for getting us all around the piano.” And, he’s thankful for the community where he was raised. “I’m very thankful that Swainsboro is where the Lord saw fit for me to grow up.”

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Rhythm & Pines Music Festival featuring Swingin’ Medallions • Knotty Pine Road Race The Grand Parade • Car Show • Antique Tractor Show • Arts & Crafts • Grill-Off Jurassic Kingdom Dinosaur Show • Xtreme Team Basketball Dunk Team • Kids’ Zone Green Jacket Banquet • Tennis Tournament • Flower Show • Beauty Pageants • And much, much more!

Arts

& CULTURE

EMANUEL ART S C OUNCIL PRESENT S ROBERT HARLING'S

Steel ‘ Magnolias’ E

MANUEL ARTS COUNCIL will present Robert Harling’s timeless classic ‘Steel Magnolias’ at East Georgia State College on Saturday, December 7 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 8 at 3:00 p.m. Both performances will be in the Luck F. Gambrell Auditorium.

Tickets are $10 each, $5 for students, and may be purchased at the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce or at the door.

The Emanuel Arts Council, Inc. (EAC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to empower and grow the community through cultural programs in all areas of the arts.

ABOVE: From L to R: Donna Haddock as Truvy, Dena Walden as Annelle, Cole Smith as Shelby, Kay Farner as M’Lynn, Pam Baggett as Clairee, and Dedra Shuman as Ouiser.

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! Local, Convenient & Affordable, With 4 Locations: Swainsboro 455 E Main St (478) 237-4061

Vidalia 311 McNatt St (912) 538-1200

Statesboro 128 N Main St (912) 764-4444

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

Sandersville 638 S Harris St (478) 552-3005

THE NANCY AUDITORIUM

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Arts

& CULTURE

Information provided by EDDIE LEWIS AND RICK PAUL Photography by THE LATE MRS. PATSY SHORT, DAUGHTER OF MRS. NANCY THOMPSON

ot many communities can boast about having big-name entertainers coming to their town to perform and certainly not small, rural areas. In the 1950s and ’60s, however, Emanuel County was known for being the gateway to the Grand Ole Opry and then on to stardom.

engineer/announcer Jack Wisely opened the mike and announced, “Good morning, you are tuned to radio station WJAT, Swainsboro, Georgia!” Al Evans, first station manager, introduced Mr. and Mrs. Thompson to an awed radio audience, after which, radio station WJAT and its studios were dedicated.

Much of the credit for the wonderful entertainment that came to Emanuel County can be given to Jack A. Thompson who started the local radio stationWJAT. On the morning of January 8, 1950, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson began greeting guests to their brand new radio station at 8:30. At the stroke of 9:00 a.m.,

A few years after the debut of WJAT Radio, station owners Jack and Nancy Thompson developed a plan for an auditorium to be used for gospel sings and other special events. The Thompsons got the idea for an auditorium after attending a big gospel show over in Washington County. They were so impressed by

The Happy Goodmans were just one of the many gospel groups that got their start at the Nancy Auditorium and eventually went on to achieve international fame.

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earlier, soon after WJAT went on the air with live gospel shows presented on radio. The shows were a big hit and Mr. Thompson believed they could attract big crowds in concert, as well, as he had seen in neighboring counties.

the enthusiasm of the audience; they just knew that type of entertainment would be a hit in Swainsboro.

And it was!

The Nancy Auditorium opened in April, 1954.

Swainsboro’s remarkable entertainment history is the result of several interesting factors, all beginning in 1956 when Mr. Jack Thompson hired Johnnie Bailes as an announcer on WJAT and as manager of the Nancy Auditorium. This single event is the key to events that would follow and eventually lead to the sale of WJAT to Webb Pierce and Jim Denny.

The magical formula of Bailes, Denny, and Pierce all associated with the same radio station, WJAT, and its Nancy Auditorium was somewhat like having three planets collide in your backyard; it was bound to make noise, and it was, arguably, the most historically significant entertainment occurrence in this part of the Southeast since the invention of the radio.

The very beginning of the “era” however, started

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TOP: Eddie Lewis

worked in the concession stand at the Nancy Auditorium.

Prices were reasonable as well as the admission-93 cents.

ABOVE: It was very common

for the Nancy Auditorium to be sold out for each performance.

Eddie Lewis’ mother, Doris Lewis, worked at the Radio Station for 44 years. Eddie and his four sisters worked at the station and the Nancy Auditorium.

Eddie worked in the concession stand and got a chance to see what would become very famous entertainers. Eddie recalls Loretta Lynn, Ferlin Husky, The Big Bopper, Bill Anderson, Merle Haggard, Lester Flat and Earl Scruggs, Jerry Clower, Minnie Pearl, Jim Ed Brown, Roy Acuff, Ray Price, Brenda Lee, Webb Pierce, Jerry Lee Lewis, Mel Tillis, The Lewis Family and Ernest Tubb all performing at the Nancy Auditorium. Hank Williams Jr. played his first concert, at age eight, singing “Lovesick Blues.”

From a sleepy little farm community to top country music concert site in just a few short years, Swainsboro struggled to keep pace with the times, as the Nancy Auditorium created an environment for unparalleled growth. The number of restaurants and motels in town, including the beloved Sam’s Drive-In, more than tripled during this period of the community’s history.

Times do change and around the mid 1960s the music industry shifted towards Rock and Roll when the Beatles came to America. Gospel and country music became less popular. However, Emanuel County will always be able to boast about the incredible entertainment that graced the stage of the Nancy Auditorium.

Crider Foods family has been

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Our purpose is to help patients live life to eir fu potential.

Dr. David J. Davis, III 120 Jackson Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401

478-268-9011 centralgeorgiaclinic.com

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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TALK OF THE TOWN Showcasing emanuel County’s People and Events

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

“The Place to Grr” 101 North Main Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401 478-237-3881 • For More Information on Emanuel County visit: emanuelco-ga.gov

Last year, we welcomed over one hundred eighty five new citizens, two new major manufacturing employers, and ten new businesses to Swainsboro.

What are you waiting for?

This is yr “Welce” to Swainsbo, Gegia!

www.cityofswainsboro.org 101 W Main Street

478.237.7025

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TALK OF THE TOWN MISS EMANUEL COUNTY & MISS SOUTHEAST GEORGIA

scholarship competition

PHOTOS BY GAMBRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

O

Board Members Shelli Smith and Anna Gambrell, Miss Emanuel County’s Outstanding Teen: Kylin Miller; Miss Southeast Georgia’s Outstanding Teen: Addie Freeman; Miss Emanuel County: Allie Griffis; Miss Southeast Georgia: Gabrielle D’Alessandro; Board Members Donna Haddock and Jim Roberts

MISS WINNERS: 1st runner up: Sydney Hillman (Evening Wear/Social Impact Statement Award), Miss Emanuel County: Allie Griffis (Talent Award, Alyssa Beasley Overall Talent Award, Congeniality Award), Miss Southeast Georgia: Gabrielle D’Alessandro, 2nd runner up: Ansleigh Williams

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N SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019, the 42nd Annual Miss Emanuel County and Miss Southeast Georgia Scholarship Competition was held at the Swainsboro City Auditorium. Fourteen contestants from around the state competed for the respective titles. At the end of the evening, Allie Griffis was crowned Miss Emanuel County, Gabrielle D’Alessandro was crowned Miss Southeast Georgia, Kylin Miller was crowned Miss Emanuel County’s Outstanding Teen, and Addie Freeman was crowned Miss Southeast Georgia’s Outstanding Teen. These ladies will now go on to represent Emanuel County at the Miss Georgia Competition held in Columbus each June. To learn more about the pageants, visit missemanuelsoutheast.com.

OUTSTANDING TEEN WINNERS: 1st runner up: Sydney Smith (Talent Award), Miss Emanuel County’s Outstanding Teen: Kylin Miller (Evening Wear/ On-Stage Question Award),Southeast Georgia’s Outstanding Teen: Addie Freeman (Bob Ritchie Photogenic Award), 2nd runner up: Kaitlyn Frisk

Pinetucky

COUNTRY MEATS

FRESH COUNTRY-STYLE MEATS Do you love tender, savory meat? Country style? Well then Pinetucky Country Meats is the place for you.

We like to keep things traditional so that's why our butcher hand cuts his meat to order---just like in the old days.

And trust us when we say you can taste a difference in the quality.

Some of our specialty meats include t-bones, sirloins, smoked ribs, sausages and other food items like jellies and spices!

Two Locations to Serve You:

224 W MAIN STREET SWAINSBORO,GA 30401 (478) 419-1230

1053 2ND STREET SOPERTON, GA 30457 (912) 529-3434

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TALK OF THE TOWN 1

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WOUNDED WARRIORS Sportsman’s Banquet and Auction

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he Wounded Warriors held its eighth Annual Sportsman’s Banquet and Auction at Beaver Creek Plantation in Twin City on Thursday, September 26. The event is organized by the Swainsboro Rotary Club and the Emanuel County Sportsman’s Club and raises funds to support wounded military veterans and their families through hunting and fishing events.

Wounded Warriors Retreat is a Georgia non-profit 501-C3 organization and sponsors over 20 outdoor events each year. The group’s mission statement is: “To make a difference in the lives of wounded warriors by mentoring, promoting, supporting and encouraging spiritual healing for wounded warriors and their families while participants enjoy the many outdoor activities offered by the private hunting retreat.”

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SHOWCASING YOUR COMMUNITY’S PERSONALITY

PHOTOS BY JOHN RIDDLE

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11 1. ROTC Students from Swainsboro High School 2. Taylor Webb & Rusty Lane 3. Wade Johnson, Kristin Hall, John Allen Bailey, Milton Gray & Guy Singletary 4. Debbie Hudson & Greg Dubberly 5. Jeb Web, Jerry Webb, & Taylor Webb 6. Richard McNeely & Kurt Anderson 7. Milton Gray & Terry Reynolds

8. Scotty Bell, Greg Mercer, Allen Rigdon, Ethan Conway 9. Judy McWhorter, Lisa Bertoc, Jodi Reynolds, Anna Kate Willoughby & Ann Rogers 10. Billy & Ann Crider 11. Larry Bell & Cindy Willis 12. Donna Nasworthy & Sandra Wright

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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HANDIHOUSES THEY’RE PORTABLE!

Handi-House is the oldest PORTABLE BUILDING manufacturer in the Southeast; manufacturing and striving for excellence since 1966. We stand behind what we sell.

STORAGE BUILDINGS CARPORTS & GARAGES GREENHOUSES PLAY HOUSES SCREEN HOUSES

Steel or Wood Frame Styles • Aluminum, Fiberglass or Wood Siding Sizes from 4’x8’ to 12’x50’ • Roll-Up Doors Also Available

We Finance What We Sell

478-237-6708 • Handihouse.com

METAL ROOFING MANUFACTURING AVAILABLE IN 16 COLORS 912-562-3767 jabometals.com 268 Broad Hollow Road • Swainsboro, GA 30401

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Southeast Cabinets

Call for a FREE ESTIMATE!

LANDSCAPING • LAWN CARE PRESSURE WASHING • LAND CLEARING BULLDOZING & HANDIMAN SERVICES TIN ROOF CLEANING & LIMB/TREE REMOVAL WITH A BOOM LIFT

TIM JOHNSON • MOBILE: 682-9417 169 Johnson Rd. | Midville, GA 30441 EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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TALK OF THE TOWN PICTURES PROVIDED BY OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

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Governor Visits Emanuel County 2

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long with local and state economic development leaders in Swainsboro at Faircloth Forest Products, Governor Brian Kemp announced the creation of a rural strike team to focus on bringing jobs, investment, and economic development to all corners of the Peach State.

“To keep rural Georgia strong and remain the top state for business, I am laser-focused on bringing projects of regional significance to communities wanting to grow,” said Governor Kemp. “By partnering with elected officials and economic developers, we can highlight the incredible people, places, and resources that exist outside of major metro areas. We can make sure that industry leaders have Georgia on their minds.

“The hardworking Georgians on this strike team will raise the visibility of regional economic development assets - specifically, large industrial sites outside of metro-Atlanta - and unite communities to market those sites to potential prospects.”

In Swainsboro, Governor Kemp also announced a statewide “Georgia Made” tour to raise awareness and show support for local businesses and manufacturers providing jobs and opportunity to communities across Georgia.

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7 1. Governor Brian Kemp celebrated the thriving industry in Emanuel County on his recent visit 2. Governor Brian Kemp and Swainsboro Mayor Charles Schwabe 3. Jeremey & Jessica Faircloth with daughter Robin Ann, Danny Wayne & Karen Faircloth, Rayleigh (Jeremy's Daughter), Governor & Mrs. Brian Kemp, Shanda, Jaycee, Logan, Racyn, and Ben Faircloth 4. Mrs. Marty Kemp with Arahm Shah, Georgia 4-H State President & Governor Brian Kemp 5. Trey Chapman, Governor Brian Kemp, Nix Hooks, & Josie Peeples 6. Representative from Dept. of Economic Development; Amy Carter, Deputy Commissioner, Rural Georgia Initiatives; Jeremy Faircloth; Danny Wayne Faircloth; Governor & Mrs. Brian Kemp; Pat Wilson, Commissioner of Economic Development; Bert Brantley, Chief Operating Officer; Mary Shaw, Department of Economic Development, Ken Warnock, Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority 7. Governor & Mrs. Kemp greeted everyone who attended the event EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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PROVIDING OUR COMMUNITIES WITH SAFE, RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY SINCE 1936.

CARING FOR EMANUEL COUNTY!

Volunteers • Chaplaincy • Social Work Nursing Services • Certified Nursing Assistants

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION:

478-237-7798 Services provided regardless of patient’s ability to pay

912-526-8181 • www.altamahaemc.com

Guided kayak tours on the paddling trails of George L. Smith State Park's 412-acre mill pond. The calm blackwater trails are the perfect venue for novice kayakers of all ages, and the scenic vistas make for a relaxing day enjoying the

great outdoors.

Wesley Hendley

478-299-6616 millpondkayak.com millpondkayak@gmail.com P.O. Box 576 | Twin City

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Hospice

667 South Main Street Swainsboro www.pruitthealth.com License #053-109H

TALK OF THE TOWN Green Jacket Dinner

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he 6th Annual Green Jacket Dinner was held in May 2019 at the Cadle Barn. After a social hour and dinner, the highlight of the evening came when Dr. Tim Goodman was awarded the coveted green jacket. Dr. Goodman has served on the Pine Tree Festival Foundation for many years.

Dr. Goodman is a dedicated serviceman of the community. He is a long-time Swainsboro Kiwanis Club member and has been integral in the organization and publication of the annual Pine Tree Festival tabloid ahead of the festival each year.

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1. Charles Schwabe, Daisy Reeves, Dr. Tim Goodman, 2019 Green Jacket recipient, Mack Griffin, and Milton Gray 2. Jerry Cadle, Cheryl Goodman, Diana Wedincamp, Dr. Jimmy Wedincamp & Dr. Tim Goodman 3. Dr. Mark Haddock, Patti Hendley, Jay Hendley, Zac Frye, Larry Calhoun & Gary Mason 4. Wayne Foskey, Milton Gray, Richard McNeely & Jerry Cadle 5. Donna Haddock, Madelyn Meeks & Eliza Noles 6. Yonna Bailey, Paula Cadle, Peggy Key, Daisy Reeves & Debbie Calhoun 7. Teen Miss Pinetree Festival Lily Womack, Queen Miss Pinetree Festival Madison Taylor, and Little Miss Pinetree Festival Jolie Coxwell

EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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ADVERTISER’s INDEX PHOTO BY MARK WILLIAMS STUDIO

94 Altamaha EMC 43 Berni's on Main 80 Central Fence Company 83 Central Georgia Clinic of Chiropractic 32 Citizens Bank 85 City of Swainsboro 44 City of Twin City 91 Coleman's Painting 38 Community Hospice 83 Crider Foods 37 Daniels Chevrolet Buick-GMC 7 Downtown Development Authority 25 Durden Banking Company 71 Durden-Hudson Funeral Directors 5 East Georgia State College 85 Emanuel County Commissioners BC Emanuel County Development Authority 56, IBC Emanuel Medical Center 31 Gambrell Photography 87 Georgia Dermatology Associates 90 Handi-House Mfg.Company 54 Interfor 90 Jab-O Metals 91 Johnson's Hardwood Floors 3 Kwik Shop 1 Mark Williams Studio 94 Mill Pond Kayak 19 Parrish Pest Management 94 Pineland Telephone Company 87 Pinetucky Country Meats 78 Pine Tree Festival 94 Pruitt Health Hospice 91 Red Roof Lawn Care & More 91 Southeast Cabinets, LLC 90 Southeastern Technical College 58 Southern Traditions Floral & Gifts 8 Spivey State Bank IFC Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce 71 Wren's Southern Ladies & Gents 62 Yeoman's & Associates 66 Yoder Metals

altamahaem.com centralfenceco.com centralgeorgiaclinic.com cbs-lc.om cityofswainsboro.org twincityga.com commhospice.com criderfoods.com danielschev.com cityofswainsboro.org durdenbc.com durden-hudsonfunderaldirectors.com ega.edu emanuelco-ga.gov emanuelchamber.org emanuelmedical.org gambrellphotography.com gaderm.com handihouse.com interfor.com jabometals.com kwikshop.com markwilliamsstudio.com millpondkayak.com pineland.net pinetuckycountrymeats.com pruitthealth.com

southeasterntech.edu southerntraditionfloral.com personsbankingcompany.com emanuelchamber.org

PLEASE THANK THESE ADVERTISERS FOR MAKING THIS PUBLICATION POSSIBLE! SUPPORT THESE BUSINESSES AND BUY LOCAL.

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Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce “To enhance the economic prosperity of our members and promote the free enterprise system in Emanuel County.”

Reaching out for a

Healthier Tomorrow Serving Emanuel County and its families for Member Referrals Insurance Discounts Networking Opportunities Chamber Website Links Free Website Advertisements

Business & Industry Support Services Ribbon Cutting Services Conference Room Availability Vision 2020 Leadership Emanuel

(478) 237-6426 • 102 South Main Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401

over 50 years

117 Kite Road | Swainsboro, GA 30401 | 478-289-1100 www.emanuelmedical.org

EMANUEL COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY WWking ff ALL of Emanuel CCnty

2019 - 2020 | EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING | VOLUME 2

Grandeur Restored

A Historic Home's Emanuel CCnty…the place to www.goemanuel.org

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(478) 237-6426 • 102 South Main Street • Swainsboro, GA 30401

PR OFIL ES | A RT & CULT URE | TA L K OF TH E TOW N