JEFF DAVIS Living
A Family Affair
Where Passion is Served With Every Plate
Manna Cafe’ & Eatery’s Award Winning Cuisine
JEFF DAVIS - TITANS OF TEAM SPORTS | WWII VETERAN - ALFRED RAY |PROFILES | ARTS & CULTURE | DAY TRIPS
Showcasing Jeff Davis County’s Personality
Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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Your Community's Personality FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA | 800082221124 Showcasing | IUFCU.ORG |
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ABOUT THE COVER:
Manna Café & Eatery’s Award-Winning Swamp Burger is featured on the cover. Matthew and his Mother, Angie, started the iconic restaurant fourand-a-half years ago and it has become famous for its bistro-style cuisine with a twist. The restaurant is a family affair with all of the immediate family involved in one way or another. (Angie Walker, Hank Walker, Matthew Walker, Phillip Linebarger, Angie's eldest son, with his wife, Lori Linebarger, and their children, Brazz and Brie Linebarger.)
TABLE OF
CONTENTS FEATURES 9
COMMUNITY SECTION
Featuring Information for newcomers, visitors, industrial prospects, and residents.
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TITANS OF TEAM SPORTS
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ALFRED RAY
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A FAMILY AFFAIR – PASSION SERVED WITH EVERY PLATE
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BEES ONLY STING AND CHOCOLATE MILK COMES FROM BROWN COWS
Jeff Davis brings home not one, but two state championships.
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World War II veteran nearly drowns—and lives to tell the tale.
Matthew and Angie Walker’s main ingredient for success at Manna Café & Eatery is passion.
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TALK OF THE TOWN
Highlighting the unique quality of life in Jeff Davis.
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ARTS & CULTURE
From the reconstruction of the Jeff Davis Arts & Entertainment Council to the talent of rising vocal star Kendra Welch—the Art scene is blooming.
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JAMES FARMER - A PLACE TO CALL HOME
In his latest book, A Place To Call Home, James Farmer writes about his love and passion for curating spaces for friends and family.
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DAY TRIPS
Plan a trip to one of these delightful places for a weekend—they’re just a day away!
4-H members learn the truth about agriculture during Ag Awareness Week.
Jeff Davis Living
BANK OF HAZLEHURST Your Hometown Bank for over 100 Years
Main Office: 22 South Tallahassee Street • Hazlehurst, GA 31539
(912) 375-4228
Branch Office: 162 South Tallahassee Street • Hazlehurst, GA 31539
www.bankofhazlehurst.com
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PROFILES 42
DANIEL ELLIS
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AIRPORT GROUNDBREAKING
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BROXTON ROCKS
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UNITED WE STAND
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WALKING A MILE IN THE SHOES OF A COUNTRY DOCTOR
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NO HURDLE TOO HIGH
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KEITH CARTER
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THREE RIVERS SPORTSMAN CLUB
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A chance opportunity brings Daniel Ellis back to the town he and his dad fell in love with.
Hazlehurst Municipal Airport opens new doors for business and commerce in Jeff Davis.
Mother Nature designs breathtaking scenes within the Broxton Rocks Conservation Area.
The story behind the spark that led to the Jeff Davis Veterans Association.
Dr. Craig Padgett brings ailing four-legged friends back to health.
Meet Will Wood - Jeff Davis Middle School’s Championship winning coach turned Athletic Director.
New County Administrator is not new to working with others to promote Jeff Davis.
Teaching kids more than how to hunt.
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The Edwin I. Hatch
Energy Education Center To learn about electricity and the benefits of nuclear power, you are invited to tour Georgia’s first nuclear energy generating plant—visit the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant Energy Education Center today! 800-722-7774 Open Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
11036 Hatch Parkway North Baxley, GA 31513 Located off of US Highway 1
Closed holidays and weekends. Please call in advance to schedule group tours.
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
JEFF DAVIS
Living
Publishers : John F. Riddle & Connie K. Riddle Showcase Publications, Inc. Executive Editor: John F. Riddle Cover Photography : Constance Woodcock Photography Art Director: Stacey Nichols Contributing Writers: Candice McKinley, John Riddle, Mary Ann Anderson, Deborah Clark, Stephanie Reese, Sonya Miller, John Reed, James Farmer
John Riddle, Publisher
Connie Riddle, Publisher
PEOPLE – PURPOSE - PROGRESS
Contributing Photographers: Constance Woodcock, Photography by Nelson & Company Nate Thomas, Mary Ann Anderson Chamber of Commerce Emily Followill Designers: Stacey Nichols , Russ Hutto
We are grateful for the opportunity to publish another issue of Jeff Davis Living highlighting the people, places, events, and businesses in Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County. This community has much to offer and this issue is evidence of that. Through the feature stories, profiles, and special sections, this issue provides insight into the lives of some of the community’s “hometown heroes”, young professionals, and artists who have and are making a real difference in the lives of others. Businesses, organizations, and events are also spotlighted which are enhancing the quality of life for Jeff Davis residents and attracting visitors that help drive the community’s economic engine. We want to thank the Chamber of Commerce and, especially, Bonnie Hulett, who recently retired from the Chamber, for her tireless efforts to promote the community. She originally contacted us about publishing the first Jeff Davis Living magazine and worked hard to make each issue a success and something the community would be proud of and useful for newcomers, visitors, and business and industry contacts. Thanks also to Sonya Miller who has been very instrumental in publishing this issue. And, we look forward to working with Andrea Taylor as the new CEO of the Chamber and IDA. We welcome our new advertisers and thank our renewing advertisers who make every issue possible. Be sure and see the Advertiser’s Index in the back of the magazine for a full list of advertisers. We encourage you to support them and “shop local”. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we have enjoyed publishing it! Sincerely,
John & Connie Riddle
info@showcasepublicationsga.com
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Jeff Davis Living
Content Manager: Candice McKinley
Jeff Davis Living is published by Showcase Publications, Inc. For information on advertising or submitting articles: (912)-559-2045 – P.O. Box 391 Jesup, GA 31598 info@showcasepublicationsga.com 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.
J. Kyle Varnadoe, O.D. M. Lloyd Mason, O.D.
SOUTHERN EYECARE “Keep Your Vision Strong” Comprehensive Eye Examinations • Optical Dispensing • Surgery Co-Management Contact Lenses • Laser Vision Correction • Eye Infections • Eye Injuries • Dry Eyes • Low Vision Eye Glasses • Diagnosis and Treatment of Ocular Disease, Cataracts, Glaucoma, Diabetes
912-375-2516 25 Cross Street Hazlehurst, GA 31539 southerneyecarepc.com Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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Join the Chamber! Expand Your Customer Base Develop Positive Relationships Grow Your Business
912.375.4543 95 E Jarman ST • Hazlehurst, GA 31539 hazlehurstchamberofcommerce.com 8
Jeff Davis Living
Jeff Davis COMMUNITY
HAZLEHURST – DENTON SNIPESVILLE
From long-leaf pines to cotton fields to expanding manufacturing opportunities, Jeff Davis County is a beautiful place with unmatched potential for positive growth. Jeff Davis County is bordered by three of Georgia's major - and most picturesque - rivers: the Ocmulgee, the Oconee, and the mighty Altamaha, which is often referred to "Georgia's Little Amazon." Located within an hour's drive of three of Georgia's major interstates - Interstate 16 running from Savannah to Macon, Interstate 75 running from near Miami to Michigan, and Interstate 95 running from Miami to Maine Jeff Davis County is also at the crossroads of two major federal highways: Highway 341, also known as the "Golden Isles Highway," and Highway 221, which connects Virginia with Florida. With its central location of fewer than 100 miles from some of Georgia's important cities like Savannah, Albany, Valdosta, Macon, and Brunswick, Jeff Davis County enjoys easy connections to the rest of the state and to the entire world. Hazlehurst, GA was first known as Handtown because the first settlers in the area were the Hand family. The small community was established in what was then Appling County. As best as can be determined, only the Hand family and relatives lived in the area until about 1869, when the J.M. Odom family moved to the area. The coming of the railroad changed the structure of that portion of Appling County and would pave the way for the creation of Jeff Davis County.
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Railroad engineer and Civil War veteran George H. Hazlehurst was instrumental in building rail systems throughout the South. Georgia, his home state, was no exception. Colonel Hazlehurst, as he was known, became president of the Macon & Brunswick Railroad in 1865. From Macon, Colonel Hazlehurst and his crew began construction of a line southeastward toward Brunswick. From Brunswick, another of Colonel Hazlehurst's crews began carving a line northwestward. On September 23, 1869, the two crews met and connected the rails halfway between the two cites. The crews celebrated the completion of the rail and christened the spot where the lines met as Mile Post 8-1/2. This would later become Hazlehurst. A depot soon arose, and regularly scheduled train service on the new tracks was placed into operation in 1870. Hazlehurst thus had its very early origins as a rail town.
Photography by Constance Woodcock
Hazlehurst City Hall 28 Latimer Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 912-375-6680 Denton, GA City of Denton 2402 Douglas Hwy.; Denton, GA 31532 (912) 375-3892 Snipesville, GA For more information on Jeff Davis County, contact: Hazlehurst- Jeff Davis Chamber of Commerce 95 E Jarman Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-4543 www.hazlehurstchamberofcommerce.com Jeff Davis-Hazlehurst Board of Tourism Post Office Box 546, Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539. (912) 209-8805 www.jeffdavisjda.com Joint Development Authority www.hazlehurst-jeffdavis.org 95 E. Jarman Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-4543
REALTORS Bateman Realty 26 Quail Run; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 379-9246 www.batemanrealty.com
Turner Realty 53 E Jarman Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-9552 www.turnerrealty.net
T.H. Weatherly Realty & Appraisals 34 W. Williams Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-5566 www.thweatherlyrealty.com
Whitfield Realty 6 Odum Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31593 (912) 375-7765 www.whitfieldrealtyinc.com
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Jeff Davis Living
Welcome to Hazlehurst, located in the heart of historic and peaceful southeast Georgia. If you’re looking for small town charm, a friendly place to spend a day or even a lifetime, great local restaurants and bistros, and gently rolling hills and natural beauty edged by two of Georgia’s greatest and most pristine rivers, the Altamaha and Ocmulgee, then we invite you to our cozy little city.
City Council (L to R): Ward 1 Councilman Dywane Johnson, Ward 2 Councilman John A Ramay, Mayor R. Bayne Stone, Ward 3 Councilman Eric Griffin, Ward 4 Councilman John Bloodworth
Ken Williams - Police Chief
Charles Wasdin - Fire Chief
Back (L to R): Kim Carter, Charles Harrell, Lorrie Williams; Front (L to R): Kenlie Waters, Vernice Lopez, City Clerk
Cody White - Airport Manager
Blan Williams - Supervisor Water Department & Jeff Jones Supervisor Street Department
86 S. Cromartie Street • P.O. Box 519 • Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539 • (912) Personality 375-668011 Showcasing Your Community's
SCHOOLS IN JEFF DAVIS COUNTY Jeff Davis Pre-K 96 West Jefferson Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-5048
EDUCATION
Like any other successful community, the citizens of Jeff Davis County support our students and our schools. Our award-winning system includes six stellar schools, and Jeff Davis High School was named a Title I Reward School for Highest Progress by the State Department of Education for 2014-2015. Our students study in modern facilities and compete on beautiful fields and courts. Our graduates attend colleges both near and far, join branches of the United States Military, and accepts jobs with growing local businesses.
Jeff Davis Primary School 71 Burketts Ferry Road; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-6720 Jeff Davis Middle School 93 Collins Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-6750 Jeff Davis Choices Academy 44 Charles Rogers Blvd.; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-5048
P.O Box 1780 44 Charles Rogers Blvd. | Hazlehurst, GA 31539 Phone: (912)375-6700 | www.jeff-davis.k12.ga.us
Jeff Davis Elementary School 81 Pat Dixon Road; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-6730
MISSION
Jeff Davis High School 156 Collins Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-6760
The mission of the Jeff Davis County School System is to develop successful, productive citizens who make a positive contribution to society.
VISION
Our vision is to maintain a relentless pursuit of excellence as we prepare students for life.
Coastal Pines Technical College 677 Douglas Highway; Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539 (877) 332-8682 | www.coastalpines.edu
C
oastal Pines Technical College (CPTC), a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) was established July 1, 2014, from the merger of Altamaha Technical College (est.1989) and Okefenokee Technical College (est. 1965). The State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia announced the merger August 1, 2013. Coastal Pines Technical College offers associate degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates of credit, as well as continuing education opportunities, economic development services, and adult education courses. The CPTC service delivery area covers 7,431 square miles in the southeastern region of Georgia. In addition to the main campus in Waycross, the College has six other sites, one in each of the following cities: Alma, Baxley, Brunswick, Hazlehurst, Jesup, and Kingsland. Coastal Pines Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, is a multi-campus, two-year college in Southeast Georgia that supports the workforce development and lifelong learning needs of communities, businesses, and industries. Through traditional and distance delivery formats, the learner-centered College offers associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate programs; continuing education opportunities; adult education services; and customized training for economic advancement. 12
Jeff Davis Living
“Here to Serve.” Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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RECREATION Children, young adults and senior citizens can all find plenty to do in Jeff Davis County!
TOWN’S BLUFF & HERITAGE CENTER This is the perfect place to get "back to nature". The day use area has two paved boat ramps. The RV Park and Primitive campgrounds are located on the Altamaha River and the Bullard Creek Wildlife Management Area five miles north of Hazlehurst of Hwy 221. Picnic shelters and bathroom facilities are also available. www.townsbluffpark.com 54 Riverwood Trl, Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 379-9303
JEFF DAVIS PUBLIC LIBRARY
189 E Jarman St, Hazlehurst, GA 31539 | (912) 375-2386
HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 61 E Coffee Street; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 (912) 370-0943
THE BIG HOUSE
The Big House is an antebellum-style home that overlooks the town like a grand old dame. The beautiful Edwardian mansion was built during the early days of the 1900s. Today, the county government maintains ownership of the building, while the Board of Tourism oversees the facility. Coastal PinesTechnical College operates a culinary school within the Big House. The beautifully restored mansion is a source of pride for the community who worked so diligently to save her and is the center of community activities including weddings, reunions, festivals and much more. (912) 209-8805
SNIPESVILLE SADDLE CLUB 329 John Wilson Rd. Denton GA 31532
JEFF DAVIS RECREATION DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL EVENTS: JANUARY: Snipesville New Year’s Parade MLK Day Activities MARCH: Georgia Great Steak Cook-off Peaches to Beaches MAY: Three Rivers BBQ Festival Memorial Day Ceremony OCTOBER: Downtown Trick-or-Treat Music Festival Hazlehurst Downtown Block Party
Jeff Davis Recreation Department provides a full complement of services for year-round enjoyment and recreation, including active and passive parks, recreation programs, athletic leagues and summer programs.
NOVEMBER: Veteran’s Day Ceremony
• Football • Baseball • Softball
DECEMBER: Christmas Parade Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
• Swimming • Golf • Cheerleading
• Wrestling
83 Buford Rd, Hazlehurst, GA 31539 | (912) 375-6650 | www.jdrec.com 14
Jeff Davis Living
Whether you are just passing through, visiting for the day, or staying for a while, we welcome you to
COME LINGER …LONGER with us in Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County.
Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis County Board of Tourism 25 East Coffee Street Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539
912-209-8805
Hazlehurst-jeffdavis.org
The largest Peaches-to-Beaches Site in Georgia – May 9 & 10, 2018 The Big House
May 4 – 6, 2018 Canoeing on the Altamaha
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BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County is the perfect place for business and industry. Centrally located between three of Georgia's major interstates -Interstate 16 running from Savannah to Macon, Interstate 75 running from near Miami to Michigan, and Interstate 95 running from Miami to Maine. It is also at the crossroads of two major federal highways: Highway 341, also known as the "Golden Isles Highway," and Highway 221, which connects Virginia with Florida.This central location provides easy access to some of Georgia's vitally important cities like Savannah, Albany, Valdosta, Macon, and Brunswick. Jeff Davis County also enjoys easy connections to the rest of the state and the entire world via international airports at Savannah, Jacksonville, and Atlanta and international seaports at Savannah and Brunswick. Despite the small size, Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County have many amenities to offer prospective businesses. A modern hospital with state of the art facilities. A thriving banking and retail community. One of the best school systems in the state. A sense of hometown pride and a low crime rate. Affordable property values and low tax rates. A recreation department with top-notch facilities and comprehensive programs for both youth and adults. The commitment to support business and industry through the Downtown Development Authority; Joint Development Authority of Jeff Davis County, Hazlehurst, and Denton, Georgia; the Southeast Georgia Regional Development Authority (Jeff Davis, Appling, and Bacon Counties); and the Joint Development Authority of Telfair County, Lumber City, and Hazlehurst.
QUALITY OF LIFE - HEALTHCARE JEFF DAVIS HOSPITAL Jeff Davis Hospital offers many services including: Med/Surgery, Endoscopy, 24 hour Emergency Department, CT, Mammography, Ultrasound, Diagnostic Radiology, 24 hour Respiratory Care, Dietary Counseling, ICU, Blood Bank, 24 hour Laboratory coverage, Respite Care, Hospice Care, Telemedicine, Pediatrics, Translation services and Community Outreach for Healthcare. The Medical Staff consists of Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Urology, Cardiology, Ophthalmology, Pathology, Radiology and Emergency Medicine. The Jeff Davis Hospital is dedicated to provide the best quality of care to all and to meet the healthcare needs of the community. 163 South Tallahassee Street Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539 912-375-7781 www.jeffdavishospital.org
LOCAL NURSING HOMES Hazlehurst Court Care and Rehabilitation 180 Burkett Ferry Road; Hazlehurst, GA 31539 912-375-3677 16
Jeff Davis Living
A RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF
Excellence
www.jeff-davis.k12.ga.us Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TITANS OF TEAM SPORTS STORY BY JOHN REED
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Jeff Davis Living
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riday night in the Fall in Hazlehurst means high school football. Like most small towns, the community’s population doubles as the stadium fills to cheer on the home team. The game itself is only a small part of the action: tailgating brings friends and families together before the game, and plenty of socializing and even business deals get done between kickoffs and touchdowns. Football is such an all-encompassing activity, it often eclipses the other sports that the school offers. Even as large crowds flock to the stadium, other, smaller, groups of supporters gather to cheer on other athletes who wear the Yellow Jacket jerseys. In 1972, the law known as Title IX was passed in part to ensure equal access to athletics for girls. In the 45 years since, JDHS has expanded the sports activities to nearly twenty teams, allowing boys and girls to compete in a wide variety of sports. While the football team has had some lean years of late, several other teams have had success at the region and state levels. Last year, the baseball team won the state championship for class AA schools. A perennial contender, the team has regularly won their region and gone deep into the playoffs. Coach Paul Glass, with his assistants Stephen Wilcox, Roger Metts, Brent Bridges, and Sammy Beecher have built a successful program from the ground up. Working with the local Little League players and parents, talent is recognized and developed early. The Dugout Club boosters and parents have worked tirelessly to keep the facility second to none. In fact, the baseball field itself has won its own championship, being deemed one of the finest in the state. Coaches Chris Davis and Stan Rush continue to build the wrestling team, taking numerous boys to the state finals in 2017, placing 8th overall. After years of practicing off-campus in an antiquated gym without heat or air conditioning, they were excited to move into a brand new facility at the high school this Fall. The girls’ softball team has had regular success for years, dating back to the 1990’s with coach Sherry Richards. Under the current staff of Wilcox, Glass, Tonya Parlor, Ashley and Sammy Beecher, the team continues its dominance in the region. Regularly reaching the state playoffs, the team made it to the “Elite 8” in both 2015 and 2016. As an interesting aside, the Beechers are a father/daughter team, with Ashley having played softball for Jeff Davis while a student herself.
Photography by Nelson & Company
The girls’ track and cross-country teams owe their success in no small part to home-town coach Will Wood. While teaching physical education at Jeff Davis Elementary School, he started “running clubs” for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders to participate in before school. Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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The Jeff Davis High School 2016 state AA championship baseball team: front row, from left, coach Roger Metts, hunter Foster, Garrett Baucom, Caleb Leggett, Kendall Sellers, tanner thrash, Hogan White, Cody Ogilvie, josh McEachin, Ryan Sellers, Justin Kight, Jordan Dubberly and coach Paul Glass; Back row, from left, coach Steven Wilcox, Seth Graham, Cristian Torres, Ross Rush, Britt Metts, garrison miles, Ryan Rush, Caleb Parlor, Kameron mcnure, will Moseley, Chandler Davenport, Austin Lewis, Colby Marchant, Alex Sanders, Caleb Chaney, coach Jeff McGowan and coach Sidney Spell
Photography by Nelson & Company
From left, Ryan Sellers, Cody Ogilivie, Josh McEachin, Cristian Torres and Hogan White react after winning the state AA championship. Photography by Nelson & Company
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Jeff Davis Living
The Jeff Davis High School 2016 state AA champions, front row, from left, Girls Assistant Coach Meg Wood, Girls Head Coach Will Wood, Boys Assistant Coach Greg Nail, and Boys Head Coach Chris Davis; players on podium, from left, Justis Conaway, Tania Hall, NaTanya King, Kalli Wilkes, Keiana Littleton, Jenny Haro, Jazmin Johnson, Chaina Cruz, Haylee Hayes, Morgan Carelock, Tristan Herndon, Melissa Jordan, Khaliyah Jenkins, Kendriana McDuffie, Marie Ann Escobar, Brenda Franco, Mariah Gibbs and Riley Walters.
Not only did the kids have fun and take part in a healthy physical activity, Coach Wood was able to identify and encourage talented kids long before they reached middle school. That hard work paid off this year when his team won the state class AA championship. Cross-country is a new addition to the school’s sports lineup. In just their second year of competition, the girls won their region, and placed fifth in the state. Coach Wood, along with coach Dustin Allen, is expecting even better results in coming years. Mary Katherine Kemp is another example of alum-turned-coach. After playing tennis under legendary coach Elliott Carter, she now shares those skills and experiences with the current girls’ tennis team, reaching the “sweet 16” and “elite 8” rounds of the state playoffs. The girls’ basketball team is led by JD alum Niki Perry. Following in the steps of her mentor Hugh McBride, the diminutive Perry is
Photography by Constance Woodcock
Baseball - State Champs: Coach Paul Glass Track & Field - State Champs: Coach Will Wood Cross Country – Region Champs & 5th In State: Coaches Will Wood & Dustin Allen Softball - Elite 8: Coach Steven Wilcox Girls' Tennis - Elite 8: Coach Mary Katherine Kemp Girls' Basketball - Sweet 16: Coach Niki Perry Swim - 5 Swimmers Competed at State: Coach Chuck Crosby Wrestling - 12th In State: Coach Chris Davis
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State Champion in the High Jump, State RunnerUp in the 100m Hurdles, and 3rd in the 300m Hurdles champ, Morgan Carelock performing a high jump.
becoming a giant on the boards, taking her team to the “sweet 16” state playoffs. The swim team is led by Chuck Crosby. Most administrators are too tied up with the details of their job; first as a principal and now as assistant superintendent, he still finds the time to spend endless hours at the pool with his team. Five swimmers qualified for the state meets this year, an impressive record for a
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small South Georgia school. The success of any high school activity depends on the development of a feeder system. Each sport is also offered at Jeff Davis Middle School, and many are even available through the Jeff Davis Recreation Department for even younger ages. The county and school facilities offer many opportunities for children and their families to enjoy time together at the “ball field.”
jeanniewhitfield@bellsouth.net cell # 912-539-0603
Whitfield Butler, P.C. Certified Public Accountants
Harold Whitfield, Deborah Butler, CPA, Kim Breedlove, CPA
P.O. Box 1270 6 E. Odum Street
Hazlehurst, GA 31539 912-375-7734 Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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At 95, Alfred Ray still recalls with crystal clarity the events of June 9, 1944, when his ship was sunk by German E-boat torpedoes. (Photography by Constance Woodcock)
Alfred Ray STORY BY DEBORAH CLARK
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Jeff Davis Living
After the ship went down, German E-boats ventured in amongst the surviving crewmen who were floating in the water. “They shined their search lights on us and I thought they were going to shoot us, but they didn’t,” Ray said. He still wonders why.
USS LST 314 and LST 374 load supplies at Portsmouth, England, in early June, 1944, in preparation for the invasion of Normandy in June 1944. Alfred “Al” Ray, a young sailor from Hazlehurst, was among the crew of the ill-fated LST 314. (U.S. Navy Institute Photo)
W
hen two torpedoes ripped through the hull of his ship in the early hours of June 9, 1944, Alfred “Al” Ray was asleep in his bunk. The concussions from the blasts, within 30 seconds of one another, slammed Ray against the bulkhead, injuring his arm, but he barely noticed the pain. Even though he was jolted from a deep sleep, Ray knew what had happened—the ship had been hit and he needed to get on deck quickly. The two blows had immediately taken out the ship’s engines and lights; the bunk room, unoccupied except for Ray, was completely dark and eerily quiet. Ray’s shipmates were topside on duty and he was alone. Ray scrambled to find his life vest, but it had been dislodged from its hook at the end of the bunk. He located a flotation belt and strapped it on, then began his ascent. As he felt his way along the stairs to the deck, Ray could tell the ship was listing badly. LST 314 was among the amphibious force vessels carrying men and equipment during the Normandy Invasion and was midway across the English Channel on a return trip to France when she became the target of German E-boat torpedoes. Earlier, on June 6, 1944—“D-Day”—the LST 314 launched assault troops and vehicles onto Omaha Beach. Ray, an operator for the LCVP landing craft which shuttled troops to the beach from the LST, recalled the vivid details of that first assault. “Even before we landed we were strafed with enemy fire. Some of the men in the landing craft were killed.”
On the return trip to England, the ship carried casualties from the first wave of the invasion. The LST reloaded at Weymouth with heavy ordnance, drivers, and a few troops and was headed back to French shores June 8 when torpedoes took her down in just 26 minutes. The ship’s commander, Lt. Cmdr. Alvin H. Tutt, in a post-D-Day interview, told Naval authorities that when his ship re-crossed the English Channel on the night of June 8, it was congested with returning convoys. Around 11 p.m., the ship had a report of enemy vessels in the area, and at about midnight, the British destroyer escorting the American convoy began firing star shells to illuminate the area. “[Afterward] everything was quiet,” Tutt said. “We were nearing our beach 18 to 20 miles away” when the first torpedo struck the LST. Another vessel off 314’s stern was also hit. Within seconds a second torpedo tore through 314’s hull. “The ship started to sink very rapidly and after abandoning ship, with only a few left aboard, a third torpedo hit the ship,” Tutt stated. A fourth torpedo zipped by 50 feet away. The skipper remembered that the ship sank completely, then its bow resurfaced, and stayed afloat for about seven minutes before disappearing from the surface of the water. When Ray emerged on deck after the torpedo blasts, a massive fire raged and water poured through the gaping wounds in the hull. He recalled that chaos reigned as sailors obeyed the command to abandon ship. “They were jumping on top of each other in the water. The skipper shouted, ‘Wait! You are going to kill each other!’ He ordered the nets lowered alongside,” Ray Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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said. “I climbed down the nets and went into the water.”
a pretty bad way before being picked up.”
Ray remembered, “We tried to swim far enough away from the ship so we would not be carried down by the suction. Some of us grouped together in the water.” After the ship went down, German E-boats ventured in amongst the surviving crewmen who were floating in the water. “They shined their search lights on us and I thought they were going to shoot us, but they didn’t,” Ray said. He still wonders why.
The survivors floated in an area of the Channel that was filled with mine fields. Ray explained, “The mines were magnetized and attracted to metal, so metal ships could not come in after us.” Eventually, English sailors in wooden boats reached the stranded seamen. They were taken to an English base in Portsmouth and treated at the hospital there for hypothermia. “They cut our clothes and shoes off of us,” he said, noting the English Navy loaned the Americans uniforms until they could get back to base. A total of 67 officers and crew were lost in the event which claimed LST 314, but the loss would have been much greater if the ship had been struck on its first crossing when it was fully loaded with troops.
Even though it was June, the Channel was cold. After hours of floating in the water, one of Ray’s crew mates complained that he could not feel his legs. “We realized that none of us could feel our legs,” Ray said. They later learned that exposure to the frigid water and ambient air had resulted in numbing hypothermia. Commander Tutt noted in his interview with the Office of Naval Records and Library that the water temperature was 52 degrees F when the ship sank. He pointed out that crews stayed in the water two to four hours before being rescued, and added, “Several men were lost from exposure. (The survivors) were in
Following the rescue, Ray and his crewmates were re-posted to Plymouth, a survivor’s camp which had been set up prior to the invasion. Awarded a 30-day survivor’s leave, the sailors visited London where they saw first-hand how the German buzz bombs had devastated the city. “What was strange was that among the ruins, people were going about their business, like nothing had happened,” Ray commented.
Joining the Navy at age 21 in 1943, Al Ray was assigned to one of the Navy’s tank landing ships.
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Jeff Davis Living
Photography by Constance Woodcock
The survivors of the torpedoed ship were routed to Fowey, Cornwall, then to Scotland for their return to the United States. After leaving England, Ray was assigned to an LSMR (landing ship, medium), a rocket carrier, for a shake-down cruise. Ray reminisced that at one point, the vessel was stationed off the coast of Florida near Jacksonville and he was a lot closer to home than he had been for quite a while. When he finally came back to his native Hazlehurst, Ray picked up his life where he had left off. Born and raised on a farm in Denton, close to Hazlehurst, Ray was the third child born to Ed and Josie Ray. He was one of nine children—six boys and three girls. He was the only member of his family to serve in the military during World War II, joining the Navy in 1943 at age 21. Three years earlier he had married a local girl, Nora Alice Wood.
LST 314 and LST 374 take on supplies in Portsmouth prior to the D-Day invasion. (US Army Signal Corps Collection in the U.S. National Archives).
Amazingly, Ray’s experience aboard the LST 314 didn’t leave him traumatized; in fact, he said would have rejoined and stayed in the service if not for his family back in Hazlehurst. His World War II experiences earned him not one, but two Purple Hearts. “The Navy messed up. They sent one of my Purple Hearts to my parents before I had a chance to contact them after the ship sunk. You could receive a Purple Heart for being wounded or being killed in action. They didn’t know I was alive until I wrote home.” Ray’s wife passed away in 2007, just one month after the couple celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. The Rays’ only child, daughter Patricia Thomas, and grandson Blake Thomas, live in Pensacola, Florida, and often visit Ray at his home in Hazlehurst.
Alfred Ray and his wife, Nora Alice Wood Ray.
At 96, Ray’s memory is crystal clear and he easily recalls events of that fateful night in 1944 when his ship went down in the English Channel. He likes visiting students in the classroom of his niece, Jeannette Hewlett, in Jeff Davis County where he recounts the story of how he was thrown into harm’s way and lived to tell about it. Despite his military decorations, Ray doesn’t think of himself as a war hero. Like a lot of other young men who went to war, he was proud to fight for his country, and without hesitation would do it all over again.
Ray likes visiting students in his niece’s classroom, Jeannette Hewlett, in Jeff Davis County where he recounts the story of how he was thrown into harm’s way and lived to tell about it.
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30 N. Tallahassee
912-375-3333 www.fbchazlehurst.org
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Jeff Davis Living
The award-winning “Swamp Burger” features an eight-ounce beef patty, pulled pork, pepper jack and American cheese, bacon jam and “swamp” slaw. This burger won the 2016 Atlanta Burger Wars, which qualified the Walkers to go to the World Food Championships last November.
A Family Affair
WHERE PASSION IS SERVED WITH EVERY PLATE Manna Café & Eatery’s Award-Winning Cuisine
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hen Matthew Walker and his mother, Angie, decided to open a restaurant four-and-a half years ago in Hazlehurst they literally took a leap of faith. Matt had just earned a degree in accounting from Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus and Angie had spent the last 20 plus years as a stay-at -home mom, raising her two sons. Neither Matt nor Angie had a background in the culinary arts, but that did not matter. Armed with a love of cooking and a sense of adventure mother and son launched Manna Café & Eatery. Their venture turned out to be more successful than they ever imagined. “We had some friends who started a second step ministry on this property,” Angie said of the site on Georgia Highway 221 outside of Hazlehurst. An expansive warehouse on the property afforded more
room than the ministry needed, so the Walkers decided to lease a portion of the space and act on an idea they had been incubating while Matt was still in college. “We thought about opening a coffee bar,” Angie said. The concept took flight and became much more. Throughout college Matt played music with Christian bands and his parents attended many of his performances. While travelling with the various bands, Matt and his family had numerous opportunities to sample a lot of food and restaurants. Their experiences became the inspiration for the restaurant Matt and Angie would co-own. Matt graduated from college in July 2012; by August of that year, he and his family were into planning full-force, and the café opened in 2013. The café’s name was suggested by Hank, Angie’s husband. “It’s definitely Biblical,” Angie said. They would need faith. “We didn’t have a clue about what Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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At the World Food Championships, the highest stakes food competition in the world, the Walkers competed with the “El Camino Burger.” This designer burger melds pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, pepper bacon and pickled shallots—and, of course, an eight-ounce burger of prime beef.
we were doing. The warehouse was just a big space,” Angie recalled. Her oldest son, Phillip Linebarger, a planning manager at Plant Hatch, drew up the specifications for construction. “Everything fell into place. We prayed about it and everything just lined up. I felt like it was the Lord,” Angie said. In the beginning, friends and family were apprehensive about the restaurant surviving in a small town, but they supported the project anyway. Everyone pitched in to put the family enterprise into operation. “Our original menu came from experiments at home,” Matt explained, noting his close-knit family loves to cook together. They added a dash of “creativity” to come up with a menu which reflected their vision. “There’s a slightly different twist on everything we do,” Matt said of the bistro-style cuisine. Their lunch menu offers a grilled cheese sandwich, but it is house-made pimento cheese with raspberry-chipotle jam on a brioche. Their “Redneck Nachos” feature roasted pork, Manna barbecue sauce, chipotle crema and cheddar cheese. Also on the menu are “Boom-Boom Shrimp Wrap” and “Avocado BLT” with sriracha mayo. Their take on a daily, blue plate special, the “Manna Plate,” provides entrees 30
Jeff Davis Living
like baked spaghetti or parmesan chicken with sides. Each weekday offers a soup du jour and homemade dessert. Fish tacos made with mahi-mahi, pico queso fresco and cilantro lime crema are an original concoction. Their catfish po’ boys are also a hit with customers. Fried or grilled shrimp are menu items on Fridays. The most popular dish on the menu is probably one of the many versions of the Manna Burger, Angie shared. The awardwinning “Swamp Burger” features an eight ounce beef patty, pulled pork, pepper jack and American cheese, bacon jam and “swamp” slaw. This burger won the 2016 Atlanta Burger Wars, which qualified the Walkers to go to the World Food Championships last November. They have qualified again in this year’s Atlanta Burger Wars and on November 10 will be headed back to the World Food Championships, the highest stakes food competition in the world. They will be competing with “The El Camino Burger.” The designer burger, Angie’s favorite, melds pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, pepper bacon and pickled shallots—and, of course, an eight-ounce burger of prime beef. Matt shared that this year’s Atlanta Burger Wars competition had a production company from Los Angeles filming for Food
Matt enjoys creating specialty dishes like the award-winning “Swamp Burger” and can be found everyday in the kitchen at Manna overseeing every dish.
“There’s a slightly different twist on everything we do,” Matt says of the bistro-style cuisine. Their lunch menu offers a grilled cheese sandwich, but it is house-made pimento cheese with raspberry-chipotle jam on a brioche.
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Network. The special on food competitions is scheduled to air the first quarter on 2018. For two people who never set foot in a cooking school, the Walkers certainly have a way with food. What’s their secret? “We inspire each other,” Angie offered. “He (Matt) may think of components and I add to it. Sometimes we fly by the seat of our pants.” Matt emphasized quality in their product. “We don’t compromise on anything we buy.” Their hand-cut beef is fresh, never frozen. Seafood, which is ordered weekly from global markets, includes selections not often available in the area such as swordfish, mahi-mahi, grouper, Atlantic salmon, opah (moonfish) from Hawaii and snapper. On weekends the eatery features seafood specialties including stuffed swordfish and “Scallops Casino.” Matt shared, “We may pin ourselves against the wall profit-wise because we don’t slide by on the quality of the food. People know they will get a quality product but not pay high prices.” All items on the lunch and breakfast menu are moderately priced. “You can eat lunch for $10-$12 tops. At dinner the most expensive item is the eight ounce beef filet at $30,” Matt illustrated. The restaurant is open Mondays through Saturdays from 7 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. “For the first two years, there were no vacations, no days off,” Angie recalled. “We are both hands on,” she said
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of herself and her son. “You have to learn that you can’t do it all.” Now, the two usually work on busy Friday nights and try to take off other evenings during the week. “We’ve gotten some really good workers and have been able to take off more time,” Angie said. The restaurant’s décor changed in July. Walls were painted in soft, neutral colors, and decorated with vintage prints on canvas. The atmosphere is warm and comfortable, which is just what the Walkers intended. Matt related, “When we first opened people thought we were that new place with fancy food. I always shot that down when I heard it.” The Walkers are pleased that their customers include both business people taking their clients to lunch and farmers coming in from the fields. In its early days, Manna’s morning menu offered more “grab and go” fare like biscuits, muffins and cinnamon rolls. “I was rolling out biscuits every morning; but, now we don’t sell biscuits.” The most popular morning request is an omelet, made to order. Coffee is also a specialty. It comes to Manna freshroasted from Thomasville. What’s ahead? “We are in preliminary stages for a second location. By the middle of next year we will be up and running in Lyons,” Matt said. Angie added, “We just opened a party room next door, and we are getting into catering and loving it.”
“Our motivation to do this was that as a family, we have always done everything together. It was an opportunity to work together.” - Angie Walker
Matt Walker and his mother Angie
Another new project is a video production called “Manna Made,” a five-minute cooking show demonstrating how Manna creates some of its unique dishes. The videos will be on YouTube and are linked from the Manna web site: mannacafeandeatery.com. The café also has a Facebook page. Looking back on the past four-and-a-half years, Angie admitted, “My biggest hurdle was that I thought I could come in whatever time I wanted and be home after lunch. That was not the case. I show up early in the morning. The responsibility is always with you even when you are home.” She usually arrives between 6 and 6:30 a.m. and starts serving breakfast at 7. There are two cooks in the kitchen on a regular basis and a serving staff, but the Walkers do a little bit of everything when on deck. Any given morning might find Angie making a café latte or ringing
up a purchase at the register. Matt may be whipping up a dish in the kitchen or hunched over the computer in the office ordering seafood for the upcoming weekend. “Our motivation to do this was that as a family, we have always done everything together. It was an opportunity to work together,” Angie said, emphasizing that her husband, an electrician at Plant Hatch for 30 years, her oldest son, and daughter-in-law Lori Linebarger, have always been involved. Grandchildren Brazz Linebarger, 8, and Bree Linebarger, oneand-a-half, are frequent visitors to the café. Matt considered, “I have no regrets. It’s definitely been a very hard learning curve, starting with zero experience. There’s a lot I would do differently, but I would still do it.” Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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Specializing in Natural Light and Outdoo Photography.
22 Delos Griffin Road • Hazlehurst, GA 31539
912-253-2514 34
Jeff Davis Living
woodcockphotography.com
Dawson Cravey, Maggie Burns, Aryn Sellers, Ivan Chu, Lexi Carver, Madison Griffin, Shelby Moore, Joshua Parker, Marah Williams, Madelyn Glass, Zoie Marchant and Gage Woodcock at the annual Farm Tour.
Bees Only Sting and Chocolate Milk Comes From Brown Cows
Jeff Davis County 4-H Members Learn the Truth About Agriculture During Ag Awareness Week
COMPILED BY CANDICE MCKINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY JEFF DAVIS COUNTY EXTENSION
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Front: Aryn Selllers; Back Row: Joshua Parker, Ivan Chu, Shelby Moore, Madison Griffin, Marah Williams, Maggie Burns, Madelyn Glass, Gage Woodcock, Zoie Marchant, Lexi Carver, Dawson Cravey, James Emory Tate (Jeff Davis Co. Farm Bureau President) stand in front of a cotton picker at the annual Farm Tour.
From left, UGA County Extension Ag Agent for Jeff Davis County Jennifer Miller, Jeff Davis County Farm Bureau Agent Phil Phillips, Joshua Parker, Ivan Chu, Madison Griffin, Maggie Burns, Madelyn Glass and Aryn Sellers talk about peanut growing during Farm Tour.
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Ellie Kate Marchant and Jaci Underwood with a goat during Farm Day.
“
ees only sting and chocolate milk comes from brown cows” is a typical response from children even in rural Georgia. While most people do realize that bees also make honey and chocolate milk doesn’t come from a cow at all – many are typically unaware of the influence of agriculture on their daily lives.
where local 4-H members assembled fifty goody bags for farmers filled with everyday items and candy donated by local Agri-businesses and individuals. 4-H members and Extension staff distributed bags to farmers and local stakeholders. Events also included Ag Literacy Day, Georgia Grown Day, and a Farm Day to help youth make the connection between farm and fork.
In collaboration with the Jeff Davis County Farm Bureau and Jeff Davis County Schools, Jeff Davis County Extension hosted its annual Ag Awareness Week in 2017, a week set aside to celebrate Georgia’s agricultural industry. Activities coincided with events planned across the state to connect farmers with schools, to support local food banks, and to celebrate eating local.
AG LITERACY DAY
The week’s activities began with Homegrown Heroes Day 36
Jeff Davis Living
In observance of Ag Literacy Day, 4-H member Jordan Dubberly built a barn shaped bookcase. In collaboration with Jeff Davis Farm Bureau, the Extension staff, and 4-H officers presented sixty-three agriculture related books and the barn bookcase to the elementary school media center. This permanent addition to the school will give the students access
Ag Literacy Day participants, in front, Bentlee Metts, Megan Williams, Jenna Miles and Jaci Underwood; second row, from left, Cindy Woodcock (4-H Program Assistant), Sheila Marchant (UGA County Extension Coordinator), Duke Stone, Anna Smith (with Farm Bureau), , Demi Rush, Noel Munoz, Marleigh Mills, Jquan Adams, Dulce Rubio, Fernando Vega, Pierce Parlor, Valarie Mason (Jeff Davis County Farm Bureau Agent) and Joyce Daniels (UGA Extension Secretary); back row, Jordan Dubberly, Donna Wilcox (Jeff Davis Elementary School Principal), Eva Hiers (Jeff Davis Elementary Media Center), James Emory Tate (Jeff Davis Farm Bureau President), Jennifer Miller (UGA Extension Agent), Susie Taylor (Jeff Davis Elementary School Media Specialist), Carter Mullis and Anna from Farm Bureau.
Jordan Dubberly, Zoie Marchant, and Chanleigh Underwood at Farm Day.
Bentlee Metts, Madelyn Glass and Madison Griffin with Smokey the Bear at Farm Day.
Extension Staff at GA Grown Day Jordan Dubberly, Sheila Marchant and Jennifer Miller.
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to a wealth of information on agriculture, Jeff Davis County’s number one industry. GEORGIA GROWN DAY
In front, Cassie Bryant, Peyton Thigpen; back row, from left,Emily Varnadoe, Sharie Shuemake, Drew Bullock, Hannah Dubberly, Maggie Burns, Morgan Yearty and Mia Conaway with Smokey the Bear at Farm Day.
Extension Agents collaborated with the elementary school cafeteria staff to celebrate Georgia Grown Day. The lunch for the day contained foods grown in Georgia, including pork, cabbage, squash, and onions. Also, the lunch included fresh strawberries from a nearby grower. In addition, Extension Agents conducted a Georgia Grown presentation for students in third, fourth and fifth grade (approximately 700 students). An interactive display was utilized with student volunteers to demonstrate where in Georgia certain commodities are grown. Students selected a picture of a commodity and placed it on a Georgia map to indicate the prominent growing region for production of that commodity. Ag facts for each commodity were presented as it related to the state and to Jeff Davis County. The Georgia Blueberry Growers donated dried blueberries, and each student, teacher and staff member received a sample. FARM DAY
Summer Anderson, Corir Mims, Ellie Kate Marchant, Ava Coleman, and Jordan Dubberly at Georgia Grown Day.
4-H participants from the Farm Tour applied the knowledge gained to help conduct the one-day agriculture educational event (Farm Day). Over 800 students in kindergarten through second grade attended the event. Middle and High school 4-H members conducted workshops and exhibits. Primary school students visited the stations and participated in hands-on activities focusing on each of these areas. Some exhibits included peanuts, cotton, Ag Careers, poultry, swine, beef, and Georgia Grown products. One of the more popular stations was the bee station where students learned the importance of bees in agriculture and got to sample honey. By the Numbers - Agriculture contributes approximately $74.35 billion annually to Georgia’s economy -2016 Jeff Davis County Farm Gate Value was $79 million - In Jeff Davis County, 70% of students stated they developed a better understanding of agriculture in the community - Over 800 students in Jeff Davis County attended the Farm Day Tour
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Jeff Davis Living
MAN’S BEST FRIEND AT WORK AND PLAY! 560 Lumber City Highway • Hazlehurst, GA 31539 912-375-3038 • ocmulgeeoutdoorsinc.com
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30 N. Tallahassee
912-375-3333 www.fbchazlehurst.org
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Jeff Davis Living
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PROFILES Hazlehurst is bustling with unique shops like Corner Market Trading Company, located at 5 East Coffee Street, offering antiques,home dĂŠcor, gifts, clothing and more! Just one of the many reasons to "shop at home" and support all of the local merchants. Photography by Constance Woodcock
YO U R GUIDE TO PEOPLE, PLACE S , AND BU S I NE SS E S I N JE F F DAV I S CO U NTY Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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Daniel and Nikki Ellis with their two daughters, Cadence and Kennedy. Their business is a “family affair” with Nikki working as the office manager.
What Goes Around Comes Back Around STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONSTANCE WOODCOCK
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ever in a million years, did I think Hazlehurst would be an option,” said Daniel Ellis about having the opportunity to live and work in the beloved town where his father had had his family medical practice. Daniel knew God had been looking out for his family. He knew that moving to Hazlehurst from Atlanta to start his own business was an opportunity handed down from above.
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Daniel’s father, Dr. David J. Ellis, ran Hazlehurst Family Medical Practice and Daniel remembered enjoying spending time fishing and hunting with his dad in Hazlehurst. “I fell in love with this small town,” he said. Daniel grew up in Conyers, not far from the bustling metropolis of Atlanta, where his father had a family practice. At the time of his graduation from high school, Daniel thought he would play baseball professionally, first matriculating to Gordon University in Barnesville, followed by another college in Florida where he 42
Jeff Davis Living
was a “walk on” in the baseball program. Baseball was not to be his calling, however. After an ACL injury, Daniel changed course, enrolling in a physical therapy program at his Florida College of choice. In 2008, while Daniel was attending school, his father was recruited to Hazlehurst as a family practitioner. Daniel saw this as an opportunity to dive deeper into the medical field and learn from the best teacher he could—his father. Daniel transferred to Valdosta State University, enrolled in premed and began shadowing his father’s practice on the weekends in Hazlehurst. He also fell in love with and married his now wife, Nikki. In 2010, David began having complaints of back pain. He travelled to Savannah for testing and the Ellis family received a severe blow—David was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer
B U S I N E SS
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“We knew Daniel’s family when they lived in Hazlehurst when he was young. His father was a great medical doctor and a great person. We are glad to get Daniel back in our community and look forward to watching his and Nikki’s family grow up here and wish them all the best in their new endeavor!” - Harold and Jeannie Whitfield
Daniel and Nikki with Jeannie and Harold Whitfield who are old family friends who knew Daniel and his family when they lived in Hazlehurst.
Daniel Ellis, with his family and members from the Jeff Davis community, at the official ribbon cutting of his new State Farm office in Hazlehurst.
around Thanksgiving. David J. Ellis passed away Dec. 9, 2010.
location to open a business.
After his father’s death, Daniel dropped out of the pre-med program at VSU. His father did not have life insurance and the Ellis family lost their home. Tough decisions had to be made and the Ellis’ decided to move back to the Atlanta area. Daniel found his way into the insurance industry, got a job in insurance mitigation and met Todd Shambo, a State Farm agent, who told him, “you’re in the wrong business.” He convinced Daniel to come to State Farm and learn the ropes of life insurance.
“I knew it was God,” he said. “Our family had been praying—I got really emotional.”
“I knew first-hand what happens to a family without life insurance after the death of a loved one,” he said, and knew this way of helping others was something near to his heart—something he could put stake in. In November 2015, Daniel was in the interview process with State Farm when the name “Hazlehurst” was brought up as a potential
Even though moving back Hazlehurst was a blessing for Daniel’s family, it was important to him not to step on the toes of the veteran agents already operating in the town. “I have great respect for the small town atmosphere,” he said. After much thought and prayer, and encouragement from his close friends already in Hazlehurst, Daniel’s family made the decision to pursue the opportunity in late 2016. In August of this year, Daniel had a soft opening of his State Farm office and the official opening took place in October. “Hazlehurst never left my heart,” Daniel said. “I’m happy to be back in the town that my dad and I loved so much.” Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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ECO N O M I C D E V E LO P M E N T
BREAKING NEW GROUND
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Business, community and dignitary leaders gather for Hazlehurst’s Municipal Airport groundbreaking.
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STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEFF DAVIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
f there is one thing that the 21st century has brought to Hazlehurst Municipal Airport, it is plenty of air traffic, ranging from single engines to twins to small multi-engine corporate jets. On any given day, the apron, the place where airplanes park to refuel or board passengers, may be scattered with locally-owned and visiting Cessnas, Pipers, and Beechcraft. Sometimes a Gulfstream, Dassault, and even an occasional helicopter flies in for refueling. Hazlehurst Municipal Airport, with the call letters of KAZE and under the direction of Manager Cody White, is now a 125acre fully operational public complex located just northwest of Hazlehurst on Burketts Ferry Road. According to public records of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 23 single engine aircraft are registered at the airport, as are two multi-engine and one jet. That’s 26 total aircraft, an astounding number for a relatively small airport and community. The busy little airport first opened in 1963, and part of its origins can be traced to the late General Curtis LeMay, the highly decorated four-star general and former Air Force chief of staff who the New York Times called “an architect of strategic air power.” General LeMay was a friend and close hunting pal with the late Claude Cook, one of Hazlehurst’s first industrialists, and he would sometimes visit to hunt the verdant pine forests of South Georgia. “General LeMay would visit Claude, but he would have to fly into Vidalia,” says Buddy Spann, Hazlehurst’s former mayor and friend of both Cook and LeMay. “He told Claude that if he kept coming to see him, that he would have to build an airport.” Cook became the “architect” of the airport, so to speak, calling on not only Hazlehurst’s businesses for donations to build the facility, but also storied – and monied – corporations including U.S. Steel and General Motors. To make the dream of Hazlehurst’s airport come true, Cook also donated from his vast acreage the land on which the airfield would be built. When the calendar flipped into the 21st century, Hazlehurst’s industry grew even more, which in turn brought additional
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air traffic. Since then, a thoroughly modern new terminal was added, as well as runway extensions to take it to 5,012 feet from its previous 4,508 feet, and complete fencing to prevent aircraftwildlife accidents since the airport is surrounded by thick pine forests teeming with deer, racoon, and turkey. The terminal is complemented by weather computers, Internet access, restrooms, and a generous seating area. But the airport would outgrow itself once again. In the spring of 2017, current Hazlehurst Mayor Bayne Stone led off groundbreaking ceremonies at the airport for a $2.8 million expansion that will include a full-length parallel taxiway and upgraded lighting, projects that should be completed in 2018. “This is indeed for Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County a substantial project,” says Stone, lauding the efforts of the Airport Authority, whose members include, in addition to Stone, Dr. David Turfler, Zachary Marchant, Travis Woodcock, Sharon Rothwell, Jay Woolsey, and City Clerk Vernice Lopez. The small airport, Stone pointed out, has become so busy since those first days in the mid-1960s, that it has no available space for additional hangars for aircraft to be housed. After the taxiway and lighting projects are complete, plans call for those vitally important new hangars to be installed. “We have a viable airport, and our industry is utilizing it,” Stone adds. “A lot of people don’t realize that, but our airport is as busy as, or perhaps busier, than Vidalia, Douglas, Alma, and Baxley. Business is going on here and our corporate people are utilizing it.” The project, well over four years in the planning stages, had plenty of hurdles to jump, including taking down dozens of trees around the airport as mandated by the FAA before it could go forward with the next step of adding the taxiway and improved lighting. With Stone lauding the enhancements as an “asset to the community,” the City of Hazlehurst should continue to see development and growth from the upgrades.
Antiques, HHe Décc, Gifts, Clothing & MMe!
912.551.9408 5 East Coffee Street
Hazlehurst, GA 31539
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N AT U R E
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Broxton Rocks! Unraveling the Mystique of Broxton Rocks Nature Preserve STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE THOMAS
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own Old River Road near Broxton are rolling farmlands mingling with pastures crowded with cattle and horses. Soon the road hopscotches from asphalt to gravel, then snakes off on a dusty road of red clay, and finally to a twopath trail. After a nearly mile-long walk on the trail, one surrounded by plump palmetto juxtaposing against the tallest of pines, tangled vines of wild muscadines and blackberry brambles, and scrubs of gall berries forming a natural fortress between woods and road, the fabled Broxton Rocks opens up in all its geological, biological, topographical, and geographical wonder. The secluded Broxton Rocks Preserve, at about 1,650 acres, is part of the larger Broxton Rocks Conservation Area that stretches through Coffee County and spills over into Jeff Davis County. The best way to describe Broxton Rocks is that it is a series of cave-like recesses, fractured rock outcroppings, and dramatic overhangs that would seem more suited to the North Georgia mountains than the Coastal Plain. A journey to the Broxton Rocks begins with the waterfall. When Mother Nature is benevolent, she produces rain and the waterfall is thunderous. When she’s unkind, the waterfall is mostly silent, with only a few trickles spilling into its dark pools of water. No matter, for it is
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Jeff Davis Living
A view of Broxton Rocks Falls
still a spectacular sight to behold. From the top of the falls and down into the thickly canopied forest floor striated with caves, creeks, and recesses, the temperature drops sometimes as much as 20 degrees. It is here the Rocks become a natural treasure chest filled with some of the most uncommon gems of flora and fauna. In the vast yet extremely fragile wild kingdom of the Broxton Rocks, more than 525 plant species exist, some of which grow here and almost no place else on Earth. The grit portulaca is a good example, a Cuban species found only in three Georgia counties and whose seed probably blew in with the winds of a tropical system. Other rare finds include the exotic green fly orchid, silky creeping morning glory, the Georgia plume and the shoestring fern. Too, the longleaf pine is slowly being reintroduced into the ecosystem after it was nearly decimated by having been, to quote American botanist B.W. Wells, “rooted out by hogs, mutilated by turpentining, cut down in lumbering or burned up through negligence.” For fans of unusual nature, it’s worth sidestepping a few snakes and briars to see this place where The Nature Conservancy is taking positive measures so that its spectacular flora and fauna won’t have to become extinct.
IF YOU GO: Broxton Rocks is open for guided tours by appointment only, with a few exceptions. The mile-long trail is open to the public from June through August. It is also open to the public on Easter Sunday and for select tour and work party dates. The Rocks are not stroller-friendly or ADAaccessible. There are no facilities of any kind, including restrooms. For information and schedules of tours, contact The Nature Conservancy by phone at 404-8736946 or visit www.nature.org and search for “Broxton Rocks.”
FALES FURNITURE COMPANY
The Little Big Stte 19 Hinson St • Hazlehurst, GA 31539 • 912-375-2388
Since 1963 Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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SMITH & BENNETT
A small firm with 40 years of BIG experience!
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Ken w. smith Emory School of Law Retired State Court Judge Retired Juvenile Judge Registered Neutral Mediator
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912-375-7797 48
Jeff Davis Living
53 south Tallahassee street
From left, Glenn Harris, Troy Shuman Wilton Miles, Donnie Leggett, Mayor Bayne Stone, JDCVA President Roy Anderson, Brian Newell, Bill Ryle and Tracy Page mark the day Jeff Davis became a "Purple Heart City."
UNITED We Stand STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONSTANCE WOODCOCK
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chance conversation between two friends, one who had served in the Army during the Vietnam conflict and the other a Marine who also was in Vietnam, led to the formation of the Jeff Davis County Veterans Association. The idea was the brainchild of the late Richard Stone, the softspoken Marine, and Phil Merritt, his close friend for many years, a determined duo whose dream was to see a veterans’ memorial come to fruition in Jeff Davis County. The story to honor Jeff Davis County’s veterans actually begins quite innocuously in 2005. The students and teachers at Jeff Davis Elementary School, under the direction of thenPrincipal Chuck Crosby, organized a Veterans Day program for local veterans., with maybe a dozen or so showing up for the celebration. Not to be deterred by the small number, the program was revived for Veterans Day in 2006, but this time nearly two dozen veterans made the trek to the school for the observances.
Hazlehurst was declared a Purple Heart City in February of this year.
The next year more than 50 veterans showed up for the program. As they marched the hallways of the school, they found them lined by excited students and teachers who held banners and flags while enthusiastically shouting, “USA, USA, USA!” On that day, it seemed everyone from veterans to students to teachers were bursting with patriotism, and few, if any, remained dry-eyed for the event. After that, Merritt and Stone decided it was time to get Jeff Davis County’s veterans together to build a memorial that would be a lasting tribute for all time. Early the next year, on January 29, 2008, several veterans met at a local barbecue restaurant to discuss the idea. The sign-up sheet for that meeting included 25 Jeff Davis County veterans who had served from peacetime and wartime, from World War II to Korea to Vietnam to Desert Storm and finally from Enduring Freedom to Iraq. Stone was elected as the organization’s first president, with its initial mission to begin a campaign to build a Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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VETERANS monument to honor Jeff Davis County’s 32 veterans who were killed in action during these conflicts. A design committee, spearheaded by Merritt, began planning the memorial to not only honor those men who died defending America’s freedoms, but also it would be inscribed with all the names of Jeff Davis County’s veterans from World War I through current military affairs. For Stone and Merritt, with the help of their fellow veterans and scores of nonveterans alike, their dream came true on Memorial Day in 2009, a late spring day that dawned with clear skies, low humidity, and warm but bearable temperatures in the high 80s. Probably close to a thousand spectators witnessed the unveiling of the honor wall, one that is carved of black granite so smooth that it reflects images with mirror-perfect clarity. On that day, the honor wall was inscribed with not only the names of the 32 men who were killed in action, which was the original intention of the memorial, but also the names of 10 men who were held as prisoners of war during America’s overseas conflicts. An initial number of 826 names of Jeff Davis County’s veterans were placed on the memorial under the era in which they served, with hundreds more since added during Veterans Day ceremonies in each year since. The mission of the Veterans Association, which eventually became incorporated, and also a 501(c) (3) nonprofit, includes both the promotion and preservation of Memorial Day and Veterans Day, as well as Vietnam Veterans Day and other national holidays. Additionally, the veterans are responsible for the landscaping and upkeep of the memorial at Veterans Square, and they place flags along the streets of Hazlehurst for major holidays – among them Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, September 11, Veterans Day, and Pearl Harbor Day – to help foster and maintain the patriotic spirit of the community. In recent years, the organization has been awarding scholarships for high school seniors who are related to a veteran and who achieve academic excellence.
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A soldier cast in bronze stands as a reminder of all who have served the U.S.A.
The Veterans Honor Wall is located in Veterans Square in Hazlehurst.
In February of 2017, the park where the memorial is located was formally named Veterans Square Park by the Jeff Davis County Commissioners, and then in September of 2017, members of the Veterans Association sought to have the City of Hazlehurst named a Purple Heart City, a move that was solidified by proclamation signed by Mayor R. Bayne Stone. The Jeff Davis County Veterans Association, now led by President Roy Anders, extends a warm welcome and encourages new members to join them in keeping patriotism alive and thriving in Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County. 50
Jeff Davis Living
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Walking
a Mile in the
Shoes of a Country
Doctor STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON
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or nearly a quarter of a century, veterinarian Craig Padgett has been doctoring sick cats and dogs, horses and cows, the occasional water buffalo, and any other four-legged critters that might come limping, leaping, hopping, or hobbling along. Since 1993 when he first opened Padgett Veterinary Services in Alma, and then eventually a satellite office in Hazlehurst, Padgett has become perhaps one of the best-known veterinarians in the area. Padgett says that growing up, he was always interested in veterinary medicine. “I was raised on a farm,” he explains of his career choice. “And on a farm in South Georgia, if you have any livestock, you try to treat everything you can without having to call a veterinarian. I thought it was the neatest thing when we actually had a veterinarian come out to help us get a cow up or pull a calf, or anything along those lines. Even when I was small, I was right up under them trying to learn anything that I could. So, you could say, I have been practicing homemade veterinary medicine for a while.”
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Padgett is married to the former Donia Sapp, and they have two children, daughter Morgan, who will graduate from Appling County High School in 2018, and son Bryce, who began his freshman year in the fall of 2017. Donia, who has a Master’s degree in psychology and who previously worked at Pineland Behavioral Health in Baxley, is at the moment a stay-at-home mom. The family is, as you might guess, rounded out by rescues, a dog named Jackson and a kitty named Jenny, plus a few horses and cows that make up the menagerie befitting of a rural veterinarian who lives, as Padgett says, “in the middle of a 13-acre field” in the Appling County countryside near Lake Mayers. “It’s on my family’s original farm from back in the 1800s,” Padgett says. “I live on the same stretch of dirt on the old family homeplace.” After Padgett graduated from high school in Appling County, he attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton for two years. “Veterinary school is like medical school,” he says. “You can
A N I M A L H E A LT H actually get in without a four-year degree as long as you have your required courses. I got into veterinary school after two years, although I couldn’t decide if I wanted to go to medical school or vet school.” Instead his life took another turn when he joined the Marine Corps, something he had always wanted to do, eventually serving in the Middle East during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. He was still on active reserve when he was accepted to veterinary school, choosing animal medicine over human medicine.
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Humans do make mistakes in raising their animals, he points out. The number one no-no is that humans feed their pets from the table, a practice that doesn’t give their pets the proper nutrition they need. Padgett says that’s something he sees in his offices “day in and day out” because people spoil their pets the way they spoil their children. As a result, he sees metabolic issues such as diabetes, pancreatitis, and liver issues. And, he adds, there are quite a few misconceptions about veterinary medicine.
“I like medicine but I don’t like hospitals,” he says of his choice. “I don’t like being indoors all the time. Financially, I probably would have been much better off if I had gone into human medicine. In some ways, too, it would be nice to practice human medicine and be able to run the tests that you need to run. In veterinary medicine, you are limited by what you can do because of the financial practicalities of any given situation.” Since the time he graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, he knew he wanted to come back to South Georgia to practice.
“It’s not fluffy, cuddly puppies and kittens all the time,” he says. “Sometimes you have to make hard decisions. I would say that a bigger portion of veterinary medicine is actually working and communicating with the owner as much as it is practicing medicine and performing animal health procedures. It’s as much about helping the people as it is helping the animals.”
He explains, “We have many more options than we did in 1993 when I first started for preventing and treating heartworms and different things. We have much better options now. I think that people definitely are more pet-oriented than when I grew up in the 1970s and 80s, and probably the fact that they are more oriented to their pets means they are willing to spend more money on products for their animals. The drug companies, therefore, have developed more products than they otherwise would have.”
Even with crazy hours, missed family meals and outings, and untold numbers of emergencies from farm animals to beloved pets and everything in between – except, possibly, for snakes – Padgett, the Georgia Bulldogs-loving, Marine Corps capwearing true country veterinarian simply concludes, “The best thing about this job is helping people and helping animals, and that’s basically it.”
And he’s quick to tell you there’s little time off for a rural veterinarian for things he would like to do in his spare time.
“Georgia football has always been “The number one no-no is “Dr. Esco Hall was already a hobby,” he says. “My daughter that humans feed their established in Baxley, and he was plays softball, and my son plays a friend of mine” says Padgett. football, and I like to follow the pets from the table, a “I didn’t want to open an office kids from ballfield to ballfield. They practice that doesn’t give in competition with him, so I always have some kind of activity their pets the proper decided to go to Alma. Hazlehurst going on. I miss a lot of that. Plus, I nutrition they need.” already had a veterinarian at that can pretty much guarantee you that time. A veterinarian had never if you go to church, sit down to eat, really made it in Alma before, so or have something planned, you’ll I was a little nervous and apprehensive, but I did it, and it’s been have an emergency.” working ever since.” Over the next few months, Padgett will have a new office on In these past couple of decades, he’s seen plenty of changes in Highway 1 just north of Alma and will close the one on Market veterinary medicine, especially when it comes to treating dogs Street. The Hazlehurst office will remain open in its same with heart failure. location on Coffee Street.
There is almost – almost – no animal off-limits that he won’t doctor, even at the expense of his health. “If it’s got hair, I’ll work on it,” he says, and then laughs and takes on a lighter tone, “I’m not a snake person or an exotic person. I don’t do snakes unless someone wants it euthanized with a grubbing hoe. I have been bitten, stomped, kicked, run over, you name it. I have a bad back, bad shoulders, bad knees, and have ruptured both biceps tendons. I’ve had plenty of injuries.”
Bryce, Donia, Morgan, and Craig Padgett. “Georgia football has always been a hobby,” says Padgett.
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SPORTS PERSONALITY
No
Hurdle to
P
High
STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONSTANCE WOODCOCK
T
he law of harvest says that one will reap more than one sows. That’s what Hazlehurst native Will Wood achieved when he began the Jeff Davis Middle School running program in 2012. The girls who began training in seventh grade have now, five years later, come home with the state track & field class AA championship title. Will graduated from Jeff Davis in 2000 and attended GardnerWebb University in North Carolina after receiving a scholarship to run track (he was a hurdler). However, after sustaining several injuries, Will stopped competing at the collegiate level, focusing his efforts instead on coaching others. He graduated from GardnerWeb in 2004 and began his coaching career in Pierce County High School. Will coached Girls Track & Field and was assistant coach to the Girls Basketball team and the Football team, where he worked under his own Jeff Davis High School football coach, Tom Hybl, now head coach at Pierce County. “He’s kind of a legend in these parts,” said Will. “It was a great opportunity to be able to work with him.” After two years at Pierce County, Will took a coaching position within the Pelham City School System before learning about an opportunity to return home to Jeff Davis. Since 2007, Will has been coaching a myriad of sports teams throughout the school system. In addition to the middle school running program, Will started running clubs at Jeff Davis Elementary School and has helped bring those talented runners up through high school. “The boys [Track & Field] team won state in 2008,” Will said. “That helped generate interest. I think was the first time in maybe 50 years the boys had won a state title.” He added that before this 2017 state title, the girls last state championship title was in 1961 (women’s basketball). Following the successful season, Will was offered the position of Athletic Director for Jeff David Middle School, which he accepted at the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year. He can often still be found on the field, mentoring new students in hurdles or pole vaulting. 54
Jeff Davis Living
L-R: Van Williams, Brian Dover, Christina Beasley, Diana Vardnadoe, Kadie Robbins, Cindy Graham, Kristin Smith, Cindy Hall, Michelle Wadley, Amy Walls, Pam Mitchell
Hazlehurst Court Care & Rehab S K I L L E D N U R S I N G A N D R E H A B I L I TAT I O N FA C I L I T Y
Our home provides family quality care and support for Short and Long Term care while specializing in Short Stay Rehab including:
Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapies. Our daily activities and monthly events keep our residents active, engaged, and entertained. We are available for tours and answers to all your questions or concerns anytime.
We look forward to
welcoming
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(912) 375-3677
180 Burketts Ferry Rd, Hazlehurst, GA 31539 Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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LEADERSHIP
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JEFF DAVIS COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
KEITH CARTER
STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE
Keith Carter is the new County Administrator for Jeff Davis County as of June 2017. Keith, a Jeff Davis County native, and his wife, Beverly, have one son, Kevin.
K
eith Carter comes well prepared for his new position as Jeff Davis County Administrator due to his varied professional experience and innate skills that seem tailor-made for the job. Keith is a native son who retired from Hazlehurst Mills in 2008 before becoming Executive Director of the Joint Development Authority. In 2013, he joined Williams Brothers Trucking overseeing their vast real estate holding among other responsibilities. In June 2017, he became County Administrator. “I feel my experience has prepared me for this job in a unique way,” Keith stated, referring to his corporate role with Amoco Fabrics and Fibers Company, which owned Hazlehurst Mills, to public service with the development authority, and then back into the business sector with WBT. “I am used to working with the various government entities, so I know most of the leadership. Working together is very important. Mutual respect and an understanding of people is critical. It takes a team effort to make a community successful,” Keith explained. County Commission Chair, Jerry Wooten, agrees, “I think he’s as good as we’ve ever had. We’re going to be able to move the county forward more quickly under his leadership. Most people don’t know how much it costs to run a county. He’s very conservative, but he wants to do everything he can for our citizens.” However, Chairman Wooten is as impressed with Keith’s people skills as much as he is with his professional experience. “He knows how to work with people, and that’s 56
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important as a county administrator.” Keith’s ability to develop relationships with people of all walks, including regional and statewide economic development leaders, paid off during his tenure with the JDA. New projects such as Hazlehurst Wood Pellets, EPAmercian Footwear, one of the largest non-branded shoe suppliers in the world, and the donation of Basford Warehouses, some 300,000 square feet of warehouse space on 18 acres donated to the IDA, are a testament to that. His success, along with his character, has earned him a great deal of respect from the business community that will serve him well in this new position. Daryl Beasley, of Beasley Forest Products, was Chairman of the Joint Development Authority when Keith was hired as the director. “Keith did an exceptional job managing the affairs of the authority. I think his experience in economic development will serve him well as county administrator. As a local business owner I look forward to working with him in this new role,” he said. Keith sees this new opportunity as just that - a chance to continue improving the quality of life for the people in Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County by working with everyone interested in moving the community forward. “I like the interaction with people at all levels from citizens, elected leaders, and business owners. I want to help create harmony and an environment where we can all pull together. That is the most important aspect of this job,” Keith explained. “I want to see our community continue to prosper. I would like to think I can help that happen using my experience and love for our community.”
MANNA CAFE & EATERY IS A BISTRO TYPE RESTAURANT OFFERING BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER, AS WELL AS A FULL-SERVICE COFFEE BAR. THE MENU IS MADE UP OF FAMILIAR ITEMS, BUT WITH AN EXCITING TWIST. EX SANDWICHES, SALADS, BURGERS, SOUPS, DESSERTS, AND A FEW OTHER SPECIALTIES ARE ALL FOCUSED ON USING THE FRESHEST, MOST DELICIOUS INGREDIENTS INGREDIEN POSSIBLE. MANNA IS OWNED AND OPERATED BY ANGIE AND MATTHEW WALKER.
Manna Café & Eatery 260 Douglas Hwy • Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539 (912) 551-9058 • mannacafeandeatery.com Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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YO U T H & O U T DO O R S
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Three Rivers Sportsman Club Teaching Kids More Than How To Hunt STORY BY JOHN REED
H
unting is almost a religion in South Georgia. Bows and arrows, old-time muskets, and modern weapons all get into the act at different times of the year as hunters seek out deer, doves, turkeys, boars, and many other kinds of wild game. Most of the time, hunting is a solitary activity; there’s one group that’s working to make it a family affair. In 2008, several local men founded the Three Rivers Sportsman Club. They had known each other while members of a turkey hunting organization, and when it folded, they decided to start a new group. Their interest was not simply hunting. Their mission was to involve kids in outdoor activities of all kinds, teaching them how to be responsible stewards of the land.
The 3RSC has grown to over a dozen members and meet monthly. They sponsor fishing, hiking, and yes, hunting events for children and adults. In February each year, they put together a large-scale banquet to raise money, which in turn goes to local charities and a scholarship fund. More than $42,000 has been raised for scholarships, and $24,000 has been donated to the God in the Hunt ministry, as well as the HUSH program. The latter group, run by Southside Baptist Church provides deer meat for needy and hungry families. Mike Williams, leader of the 3RSC, points out that all their activities, spending, and donations involve only local businesses and groups. He credits Steve and Phyllis Johnson for providing the bulk of the land the group uses for its activities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO GET INVOLVED CONTACT: Three Rivers Sportsman Club Mike Williams: 912-253-0927 God In The Hunt Ministries Rev. Van McCall: 912-222-2840 HUSH Program, Southside Baptist Church Rev. Deek Dubberly: 912-375-3315 Brian Reagin,Tyler Williams, Mike Williams, Trevor Williams, David Googe.
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F r i e n d s o f To w n s B l u ff P a r k & M u s e u m
Where getting
back to nature is easy. 912-379-9303 • 45 Riverwood Trail • PO Box 609 Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539 • townsbluffpark.com
Towns Bluff Park and Heritage Center is located on the Altamaha River and the Bullard Creek Wildlife Management Area just eight miles north of Hazlehurst, Georgia on Hwy. 221 N. e campground has 24 leveled, spacious sites, a bathhouse, repit, and is located near the Altamaha River. ere are also nature trails throughout the park that present visitors with beautiful views of the river and nature. e Heritage Center has a playground, a museum museum, as well as a meeting room that can be rented.
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TALK OF THETOWN 2017 Winners of Great Steak Cook-Off Oscar Hulett, David Nelson, Garrett Harrison, Lee Ann Harrison, Dustin Sanders.
Winner Oscar Hulett
Georgia Great Steak Cook-Off Beef Challenge winner Brad Mason.
GEORGIA GREAT STEAK COOKOFF
Garrett and Lee Ann Harrison. The couple competed against each other in Cook-off.
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The 2017 Georgia Great Steak Cook-Off was the largest ever with 65 teams competing for cash and prizes totaling over $6000. Teams were from Hazlehurst, Alma, Denton, Snipesville, Broxton, Baxley, Lumber City, Milledgeville, Eatonton, Reidsville, Douglas, McRae, Statesboro, Magnolia, Arkansas, and Terrell, Texas. The top 5 teams received cash and trophies, while the next 5 received a framed certificate. The chief cooks were also entered in a drawing for four lawn mowers provided by Husqvarna. The winners of all activities during the 11th Annual Georgia Great Steak Cook-off are shown on the Home Page of the website.
STONE’S MACHINE SHOP, INC. ACCU-WAYS, INC.
Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TALK OF THETOWN
Jeff Davis High School "locked in" to making a Difference!
The Emojis from Hazlehurst Court Care & Rehabilitation Center.
Nikki Ellis as Flo from Progressive, Autumn Vitiritti as Hurricane Irma, and Daniel Ellis as Jake from State Farm.
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Jeff Davis Living
The M&M’s of the Jeff Davis Tax Commissioner’s Office: Tax Commissioner Susie Kersey, Ann Reynolds, Morgan Hutto.
The Wizard of Oz gang from the Jeff Davis Health Department.
First place was awarded to Sue’s House of Flowers, including, front row, from left, Sarah Wilcox, Angelica Alejo, Tammy Wilson and Kathy Duncan; back row, from left, Tammy Sharp, Jan Morris and Linda Kerns.
The runner-up for the Halloween contest was Ramay Law Firm, including Constance Woodcock, Andy Ramay and Lori Moy.
Judges Mandy Britt, from Senator Blake Tillery’s office, and Renee Bolden, Director of the Waycross Chamber.
CHAMBER BUSINESS COSTUME CONTEST
Seven Dwarfs from Renasant Bank: Sherry Beck, Sha Cravey, Kisha West, Sharon Brown, Courtney Clements, Jennifer White, Mandy Powell
The 8th Annual Business Halloween Costume Contest sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce was once again successful. There were ten businesses entered in the contest with 59 individuals in costumes plus the two out-of-town judges. This year’s winner was Sue’s House of Flowers. Ramay Law Firm was the first runner-up. All contestants are invited to meet for lunch at a local restaurant and show off their costumes. The winner is presented with a Certificate to be displayed at the business, and all members of the winning group are treated to lunch the following week. Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TALK OF THETOWN Go “Glamping” Offered in Towns Bluff Park ANDREA TAYLOR NAMED CEO OF CHAMBER AND JOINT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Andrea Taylor was recently announced as the newest leader for the Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis County Chamber of Commerce & Joint Development Authority (JDA). Andrea grew up in Coffee County, Georgia before attending college at Valdosta State University, achieving a degree in English and Art. She then attended The University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa where she received a graduate teaching assistantship while completing her Master’s Degree in Art History, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Most recently, Andrea served as Vice-President then President and Executive Director of the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Authority for seven years. Andrea has completed all economic development certification courses from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). She has also completed three of the four years to be certified as a Chamber executive in the US Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Orga64
Jeff Davis Living
nization Management (IOM). “I am so excited to be working with the leadership of Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County,” states Taylor. “I look forward to working with local, state and federal officials to help grow the community. The people here have been so welcoming. There are many good things to come for our community!” Grant Gainer, Chairman of the JDA, commented, “Andrea’s background and experience have prepared her well for her new role. Her vision for the community will no doubt support the economic growth Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis County.” Andrea has served as the Chairperson for the Rural Development Shared Interest Group for Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) and the Membership Committee Chairperson. She is currently a member of the GEDA Board of Directors. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE).
Towns Bluff Park now has yurts offering those who want to camp without "roughing it" a chance to experience the great outdoors. The term "glamping," for glamour camping, has become popular to describe the experience in renting a yurt. The yurts have air conditioning and heating and a ceiling fan below a plexiglass dome that opens for fresh air. Each yurt can sleep 6 with a queen size bed, a single size sleeper sofa, and a set of bunk beds with a single bed over a double bed. Each yurt site is surrounded by a wooden deck and has a picnic table and fire pit. The interior has lights and electrical outlets. Water is available on each site with an outdoor sink. The yurts are available for rent on a daily or weekly basis.
Deek Dubberly, Ross Strickland, Jeffery Spell, Perry Brown, Denise Cox, and Hal Cox.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS LUNCHEON 2017 Administrative Professional Luncheon. Terry Stone and employees of Colonial Flower and Gift The Administrative Professional Luncheon was held on April 26, 2017. Denise Cox of Southside Baptist Church was awarded Annual Chamber Administrative Professional of the Year for 2017. She was nominated by Pastor Deek Dubberly of Southside Baptist Church.
The Joint Development Authority of Hazlehurst, Denton and Jeff Davis County is proud to promote the economic growth of the entire county through business partnerships and memberships in regional and statewide economic development organizations. Two of the most important assets in Jeff Davis County are the Norfolk Southern rail service and the location of the community within an hour's drive of three of Georgia's major interstates – I-16 running from Savannah to Macon, I-75, and I-95. Jeff Davis is also at the crossroads of two major federal highways: Highway 341 known as the "Golden Isles Highway" and Highway 221 that connects Virginia with Florida. Whether it’s food processing, the forestry and wood product industry, metal fabrication or advanced manufacturing, we have a site to suit your company’s needs. Build your business in this thriving rural community with one of the best school systems in the state, a sense of hometown pride, aggressive incentives, low crime rate, modern healthcare facilities, and affordable property values! Contact Andrea Taylor for more information on available properties and why you should locate your business in Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis County, Georgia.
Andrea Taylor, CEO Joint Development Authority of Jeff Davis County-Hazlehurst & Denton, Georgia
ataylor@jeffdavisjda.com • jeffdavisjda.com • 912.327.0830
SCHEDULE: Sundays: 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship 6:00 p.m. Evening Worship
Wednesdays: 5:30 p.m. Supper 6:00 p.m. Programs for All Ages
hazlehurstmethodist.org • (912) 375-4555 41 S Tallahassee Street, Hazlehurst, GA 31539
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TALK OF THETOWN Taylor Waters, Grace Gibbs, Faith Gibbs, and Jennifer Erwin of Interstate Credit Union
Deborah Herndon, Ashley Googe, and Donnie Shumans.
Greg and Shannon Kight
Marsha McCoy
Keith and Joan Herrington
Bonnie Hulett and Sonya Miller
DENIM AND DIAMONDS The 52nd Annual Chamber of Commerce Banquet was held February 27th at Twisted Pines Golf Course. The theme was “Denim & Diamonds” as the Chamber celebrated and honored “diamonds” from the community. Dr. Stan Rentz introduced the STAR Student, Madelyn Herrington, and STAR Teacher, Mrs. Marsha McCoy, and he presented each with a certificate from the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE). Mrs. Edna Hughes recognized Dr. Kirk Munsayac as the 2016 Citizen of the Year, and Mr. Ashley Tyree recognized David 66
Jeff Davis Living
Miller as the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and each recipient was given a beautiful beveled edge crystal trophy as a memento of the occasion. Musical entertainment was provided by another diamond from our community, Christopher Lynch. Attendees were invited to a western theme prop photo session in the room adjoining the dining area. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts Wiggins, Jr., owners of Huddle House and Dick’s Wings, donated the $100 door prize and the lucky winner was Aleesia Crawford.
Join us for hand-crafted pizza made with homemade dough and only the freshest ingredients, or try our salads, sandwiches, wings and more. Our warm, inviting atmosphere makes Hardware Pizza the best place to be for family fun and a great dining experience. Check our schedule for live music events and monthly group specials. Hours Tuesday-Thursday 11a.m. - 9p.m. Friday-Saturday 11a.m.-10p.m.
118 Azalea Road Suite 6 • Baxley, GA 31513 • 912-705-3336 131 SW Broad Street • Lyons GA 30436 • 912-403-3336 hardwarepizza.com Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TALK OF THETOWN
Ashley Tyre, David Miller, Velma Livingston
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – DAVID MILLER David Miller is the 2016 Lifetime Achievement award winner. Although he helps anyone in need, David’s main focus is among the poor, homeless or suffering children. He and his wife, Gail, use their mission store to help others by providing food, clothing and other necessities at an affordable price. They also respond to natural disasters by sending food and clothing. Jeff Davis residents know that when disaster strikes they can always receive help from Mr. Miller. He coordinates with Samaritan’s Purse to fill shoeboxes with supplies and gifts for children around the world. In 2016, more than 6,000 shoeboxes were collected and distributed to needy children. Also, he and Gail host a Christmas party for needy children every year.
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He sings for the children, and each of them leaves with Christmas gifts. Without this effort, many children would not receive anything for Christmas. David also works with those who are homeless in Savannah by providing necessities to those with little to nothing. In addition, he works with local law enforcement, firefighters and first responders who are at a high risk of developing PTSD. He goes to the scene of accidents to work with both these men and the victims to offer counseling. David is a humble man and does not talk about his accomplishments—many of which travel only by word of mouth. He serves others who are poor, hungry or helpless, and he does so simply because he cares about others. He is a warrior for those in need.
“If it doesn't say SOUTH, it's not us.” Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TALK OF THETOWN
Danny Sparks, Bobby Sears, Sonya Miller, Lynn Lewis, Greg Nelms, David Cartwright, Chris Baumann
FLAT TUB WMA ACQUIRES NEW HUNTING LAND The Georgia Department of Natural Resources recently purchased a tract of land that will greatly enhance the Flat Tub Wildlife Management Area. The 505-acre acquisition is due, in part, to National Wild Turkey Federation’s $25,000 donation. Acquiring this tract filled a gap within the WMA which will greatly improve its use for hunters. It is also important for conservation, particularly for the gopher tortoise, which is a candidate to be listed under the Endangered Species Act. These tracts provide important upland and bottomland hard-
wood connectivity within the existing Flat Tub WMA. Flat Tub WMA is part of a larger block of conservation lands composed of GA DNR’s Horse Creek WMA, The Nature Conservancy Broxton Rocks Preserve, GA Forestry Commission and Orianne Society Preserve lands which collectively total over 19,100 acres. The property will be managed by GA DNR as part of the Flat Tub WMA, in partnership with TNC and the Orianne Society who all work closely to burn all of these lands.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – DR. KIRK MUNSAYAC Dr. Kirk Munsayac was named Citizen of the Year for 2016. As a Family Practice specialist, Kirk is always a compassionate doctor, whether a patient is seen in the office or on the sidelines of a Jeff Davis football game. He is regularly seen on the sidelines to cheer for, encourage and help care for the team members. He is also readily available when any of the coaches are concerned about the welfare of one of their players. Kirk and his wife, Heather, have four sons who are active in sports and he is always available to help with coaching, whether it be baseball, football, basketball or soccer. This includes all ages—from little league to varsity. Kirk’s service and dedication to his family, his job and his country are above and beyond expectation. He is active in his church and sits on several boards throughout Jeff Davis. He believes in supporting hometown businesses as well as the hospital. He is a frequent patron of many local small businesses, including Manna and Evergreen Florist. He is always happy to speak to both public and private groups when possible and has a wealth of knowledge that he uses to better the community. 70
Jeff Davis Living
John Spence, MD
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Practicing since 1979 Real Estate Personal Injury Corporate & Business Law Estate Planning Criminal & Civil
912-375-3681 7 Jeff Davis Street Hazlehurst, GA 31539 Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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TALK OF THETOWN
First Baptist Church Ladies’ Gourmet Dinner The First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst hosted the annual Ladies’ Gourmet Dinner for ladies of the church and community. Ladies of the church serve as hostesses, decorate tables and use their personal china to serve a delicious meal. The dinner is an outreach ministry of the 72
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church. The speaker was Brittney Price, a young widow with three children under the age of three years told. Brittney spoke on “Lifelines for Suffering, Pain & Grief”. For more information about the 2018 dinner, contact the church office at 912-375-3333.
The
Show Must Go On!
STORY BY JOHN REED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SONYA MILLER
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Arts
& CULTURE
ike many rural areas, Jeff Davis County is a long way from centers of fine art and music. Situated roughly in the middle of a 100-mile-radius circle around Macon, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and Savannah, residents must drive hours to attend concerts or museum exhibitions. In an effort to “bring the arts home,” the Jeff Davis Arts and Entertainment Council was formed in the 1990’s to promote local artisans and attract performers from elsewhere to come here. The council was successful in generating local interest by developing homegrown dramatic and music productions. Talent shows allowed area musicians to showcase their talents, and the play “Mama’s Quilt” played to sold-out audiences for several years. Over the course of time, membership in the council waned, and by 2012 its activities came to a virtual standstill. In the summer of 2017, an effort to jump-start the group was spearheaded by John Reed, a local retired music educator. With the help of other like-minded community members, Reed initiated a series of meetings to gauge interest and evaluate where things stood with the nearly defunct group. The decision was made to get the word out to the community about reinvigorating the group in the most appropriate manner: sponsoring a music event. After consulting with others, the group hosted a live street concert, the first in Hazlehurst in many years. Local singer Kendra Welch performed, along with a local country band and a oldies cover group, entertaining hundreds of onlookers in a downtown parking lot on Halloween night. Moving forward, the Arts and Entertainment Council plans to host a quilt and hand-made arts exhibition in early 2018. For more information, follow Jeff Davis Arts and Entertainment Council on Facebook.
Butch Coleman and the Double Eagle Band performing in downtown Hazlehurst.
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Arts
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Kendra Welch
LOCAL MUSICIAN NAMED 2017 GEORGIA FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR STORY BY STEPHANIE REESE | PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY KENDRA WELCH
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hen singer-songwriter Kendra Welch first visited Nashville as a teenager, she already knew that she wanted to devote her life to music. Now, winner of the 2017 Georgia Country Awards Female Artist of the Year, the Hazlehurst native is achieving her dream. Kendra says her “country southern rock” style was influenced by both country and classic rock. “Artists like The Allman Brothers and Chris Stapleton influenced me to go outside the box,” Kendra shared. “I want to catch people’s attention by being different.” And she’s done just that, building a fan base that voted her not only in to the top six female artists in Georgia, but also for her to be the only female artist performing
at the November awards show. “I am very thankful to my family and fans for their support,” Kendra said. Determined and driven, Kendra works full time in addition to performing a dozen shows each month statewide. “I practice after work, prepare set lists and equipment, maintain social media, and spend a lot of time traveling,” she explained. “It takes balance.” Still, she says she wouldn’t give it up; eventually she wants to return to Nashville and perform full time, which she hopes winning in the Georgia Country Awards will help her achieve. “I truly enjoy it,” she added. “You can’t get a feeling like it from anything else, especially when people are singing along to songs you wrote.”
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Arts
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Members of the Three Rivers Symphony Winds
Three Rivers Symphony Winds Three Rivers Jazz Ensemble
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love of music and an opportunity to play their instruments brought together a group of South Georgians to form the Three Rivers Symphony Winds and its sister group, Three Rivers Jazz Ensemble. Conductor John Reed of Hazlehurst describes the volunteer organization as a “true concert band modeled after the Saturday afternoon in the park groups of a century ago.” The retired high school band director elaborated, “We play light music like medleys from Broadway shows, patriotic tunes, marches, hymns, movie and big band music.” The band is made up of musicians ranging in age from 15 to 80 and the number of musicians performing fluctuates from 15 to 40. “It’s kind of like a church choir. We never have everybody on the roll show up at the same time,” Reed quipped. The group truly represents the three rivers
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region (defined by the Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha rivers), with members hailing from Hazlehurst, Savannah, Douglas, Fitzgerald, Tifton, and Nahunta. The band formed in 2011 and has grown through word of mouth. ““We have very few actual full-time musicians,” Reed said. “The prime reason for the band’s existence is to give people a chance to keep playing their instruments. After high school and college there aren’t many outlets for adults who are professional to keep playing. Several of our people had actually put the horn down for 20 years and picked it back up to play with us.” Recently, the band added a vocalist, Allison Adcock, who has a background in musical theater. Check their Facebook page (Three Rivers Symphony Winds) for more information.
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A PLACE TO CALL
HOME STORY BY JAMES FARMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY FOLLOWILL
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nterior design to Southerners is as personal as a silver pattern, a mother’s maiden name and a football team – personal in the fact that these are near and dear to our hearts, but impersonal in the sense that we often don’t choose them for ourselves. Our mamas and grandmamas might have chosen the silver and your granddaddy might have told you what school he’d pay for, and, thus, who you cheered for on fall football Saturdays.
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I
nterior design to Southerners is as personal as a silver pattern, a mother’s maiden name and a football team – personal in the fact that these are near and dear to our hearts, but impersonal in the sense that we often don’t choose them for ourselves. Our mamas and grandmamas might have chosen the silver and your granddaddy might have told you what school he’d pay for, and, thus, who you cheered for on fall football Saturdays. We may have a sideboard that we have to use, lest our greataunt may haunt us. Maybe it’s a rug, a mirror or bed – whatever the piece may be – but we Southerners love our heirlooms. If we don’t love them, we stare at them with guilt as they anchor walls in our homes. I sometimes tell clients that an “instant ancestor” can explain a newly purchased antique when MawMaw’s chifforobe finally bites the dust and makes its way out the door. “She had terrible taste anyways…” one client sashayed back and we giggled as we made up a fantastic story about the “new” antique now residing in the home. Southerners inherit great things from our families – not only genetic traits but style too. We love to pay homage to our heritage but also like expressing our style and contemporary tastes. After all, Grandmama probably didn’t have Instagram, Amazon or Uber.
What I love to provide for clients is the opportunity to make their houses into homes. That involves layers of comfort and aesthetics too. Old and new, treasures found and items purposefully ordered, fine silver and china but great everyday serving pieces too, sisal rugs with Oushaks placed atop – this is the “look” we Southerners crave and create. As an interior designer, it is of the utmost importance to me to provide my clients a dwelling with a sense of place and provenance – whether the home is new or old, large or small, beach or mountains, lake or river house – a place after everything is said and done, simply “feels” right. The intangible “feel” of a place is the most important layer in a home’s aesthetic. Lassoing that intangible bronco is one of the most difficult challenges in a project. When a client trusts me and allows the natural visions to shape the project, that “lassoing” more so becomes a gentle trail ride rather than a rodeo. Same with other professions too! I’d hate for my plumber to hang the wallpaper, but y’all get the drift. Design professionals worth their grits will guide you and the project, and a sense of place for you to call home will undoubtedly take shape. I hope that is conveyed in the book – and thus the title of this new book’s emphasis and inspiration. A Place to Call Home – may we all long to be there and seek to create it! Y’all come on in! Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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“Home - the difference between a home and a house is the tug of heartstrings and the longing to dwell there.
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n James Farmer’s latest book, A Place to Call Home, he writes about his love and passion for curating spaces for friends who have become family. The book takes a reader on a journey through eleven homes across the country. Although all of the homes come in all different shapes and sizes, they all, now, have the elegant, yet cozy feel, that is the James Farmer style. Whether your home is in the city or on the coast or in the country, A Place to Call Home will bring inspiration for the beginners or for those who are ready for a change as well as nostalgia to the seasoned decorators.
We love and live in our homes – decorate them and fill them with our collections – physical and emotional ones. The longing is to always be there – to be in A Place to Call Home.” – James Farmer A Place to Call Home has over 200 pages of beautiful photos, stories and advice. This is the perfect book for any collection! With the topics of his previous books ranging from cooking to planting to creating, A Place to Call Home focuses on interior design and entertaining making James the ultimate lifestyle expert- Southern style, of course Release September 1. Preorder a signed copy of A Place to Call Home by calling 478.988.9494 or by visiting the James Farmer shop at www.jamesfarmer.com.
About James Farmer
Southern born and bred, James Farmer is a professional garden, floral and interior designer; cook; author and lifestyle expert. He is a frequent guest on television and radio shows. In addition, James Farmer is the author of the Wall Street Journal best-selling garden book, A Time To Plant; Sip & Savor; Porch Living; Wreaths For All Seasons; A Time To Cook, Dinner on the Grounds, A Time to Celebrate and A Place to Call Home.
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Short Journeys, Long on Adventure:
Quick Escapes and Day Trips from Hazlehurst STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON
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s much as we love our hometown, day trips and quick escapes are your answer to experience a sampling of all our amazing state has to offer. The cities and countryside around Hazlehurst offer a rich variety of culture, history, and adventure all melded together with nostalgia, food, and family fun. When you’re ready to live it up and get out of town for a day, there’s plenty to do within a three-hour drive.
FOR THE CULTURED: Raise your glass and toast Watermelon Creek Vineyard, a family-owned winery that gently slopes over 15 acres of Georgia countryside. Verdant vineyards of muscadines and aromatic, flavor-filled blueberries produce award-winning whites and reds, from honied and crisp, to floral and spicy, and from very dry to very sweet. The winery, an anomaly in the heart of Georgia’s sweet onion country, is a jewel on Tattnall County’s landscape. The Padgett family first settled this lovely spot on the banks of Watermelon Creek in 1812. More than 200 years and nine generations later, the one-time sawmill, gristmill, and general store, among other endeavors, has metamorphosed into the beautiful small winery it is today, with its current owners, Charles and Deborah Tillman, at the helm. It’s more than a winery, though. Having taken grape growing to an art, the Tillmans have transformed the full-service Georgia Farm Winery into an agritourism destination with plenty to do, see, drink, and eat with homemade jellies, jams, preserves, and sauces all made with family recipes from hand-harvested fruit and berries. When you visit, take time to visit the Tasting Room Eatery, the winery’s cozy restaurant, to try their delectable homemade salads, grilled pimento cheese paninis, or chicken salad wraps with lemon-roasted chicken. Pair your meal with a Watermelon Creek red or white vino or even a wine slushy as you listen to the natural orchestra of songbirds as their voices rise from the trees.
If you go: Watermelon Creek Vineyard is located 2977 Mt. Zion Church Road in Glennville (the entrance is on Georgia Highway 169). Call 912-654-0107 or visit www.watermeloncreekvineyard.com for more information. Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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FOR THE EXPLORER – THE TREE SPIRITS OF ST. SIMONS ISLAND: Call them odd. Or mysterious. Or maybe even just plain fun. They are the watchers of St. Simons Island, one of the deeply shaded barrier islands that guards the Georgia coast. The Tree Spirits of St. Simons, the creation of North Carolina sculptor Keith Jennings, are faces carved into the dark, gnarled bark of Spanish moss-drizzled live oaks, some of the trees hundreds of years old. With their sage-like, wizened expressions, Jennings believes the carvings draw out the soul of the trees so that one is completely different from another. Legend holds that tree spirits rule over forests and all things natural, and if you chance upon one, it’s supposed to bring you good fortune
and possibly great wealth. The Celtics believed tree spirits kept away evil, while the medieval villagers of Old-World Europe are said to have gone on regular quests to find them to bring luck to the village itself. But you don’t have to travel all the way to Europe to ward off evil spirits or seek good luck. Instead, just visit St. Simons for an otherworldly treasure hunt. When you’re ready to go on this quirky quest, the island holds some 20 unique tree spirits, and while most are on private property, there are several public places where you can see these cool ghouls, among them the Golden Isles Welcome Center, the baseball field and basketball court at Mallery Park, Redfern Village, Magnolia Manor, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, and Gascoigne Bluff Park.
Visit Brunswick and the Golden Isles Convention and Bureau at www.GoldenIsles. com or call toll-free 1-800-933-COAST (2627).
FOR THE FAMILY – LITTLE OCMULGEE STATE PARK IN McRAE: If there is one thing you’ll notice as you drive into the gate at Little Ocmulgee State Park near McRae, it is the park’s natural beauty. In the spring, azaleas and dogwoods explode into a surreal painting of soft pink, bold fuchsia, and dazzling white blossoms set against the deep green of the pines. Autumn brings magical colors that swirl into patterns of brilliant gold, burgundy, and carmine. A litany of activities awaits at Little Ocmulgee. Plenty of picnic tables abound for those familystyle outdoor feasts. The tennis courts are lighted, the swimming pool inviting, and the white sand beach along the beautiful lake awaits kids of all ages. Up to hiking? The 2.6-mile Oak Ridge Nature Trail is just the ticket for staying in shape or unwinding after a long day, or you might want to swing into things at the 18-hole Wallace Adams Golf Course. After a day of fun and activities, the Fairway Grill Restaurant, overlooking portions of the golf course, is perfect for a family dinner. With Southern classics like fried chicken and fresh vegetables, the restaurant draws not only locals, but also folks from all around Georgia. The park, with room enough for everyone at nearly 1,400 acres, is on the banks of the Little Ocmulgee River. Bring your rod and reel or your cane pole and cast away the cares of the day. 84
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If you go: Little Ocmulgee State Park and Lodge is located on Highway 441, just north of McRae. Call 1-229-868-7474 for more information or visit www.LittleOcmulgeeLodge.com.
FOR THE NOSTALGIC – LAUREL AND HARDY MUSEUM OF HARLEM: If these words sound familiar – “Now here’s another fine mess you’ve gotten yourself into” – then you might be old enough to remember the comic duo of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Nearly everything you ever wanted to know about the two and their ageless slapstick brand of comedy is in the Laurel and Hardy Museum in Harlem, a small community near Augusta. Oliver Hardy, the younger of the pair, was born in Harlem as Norvell Hardy in 1892. He also has deep roots in several Georgia towns, having lived at one time or another in Madison, Covington, Athens, and Milledgeville. When he turned 18 years old he changed his name to Oliver Norvell Hardy. After he teamed up with Stan Laurel in the late ’teens and early 1920s, the two worked together, always garbed in dark suits, bowler hats, and Laurel’s bowties and Hardy’s ties, until Hardy’s death in 1957. The museum’s collection includes photographs, movies, toys, books, and original theater posters. There’s even an Oliver Hardy Festival each fall with look-alike contests, parades, live entertainment, Ollie and Stan skits, arts and crafts, and lots of good southern barbecue.
If You Go: Laurel and Hardy Museum of Harlem, 250 N. Louisville Street, Harlem. Telephone 1-706-556-0401 or visit www.laurelandhardymuseum.org or www.harlemga.org.
If you’re a diehard Laurel and Hardy fan, then you might want to cross the Atlantic and visit the Laurel and Hardy Museum in Ulverston, England, Stan Laurel’s birthplace. Ulverston is Harlem’s sister city and the two museums often exchange items so that fans see a good mix of memorabilia.
FOR THE HISTORIAN – DARIEN AND MCINTOSH COUNTY: The historic, legendary U.S. Highway 17, the federal highway that hugs the Atlantic coast from Winchester, Virginia, to Punta Gorda, Florida, traipses through McIntosh County to connect a mélange of narrow two-lane blacktops shaded by forests of grand oaks, fragrant mimosa, and lofty pines. These roads take you past old rice plantations, through important shrimping communities and fish camps saturated with the scent of the sea, and then to postage stamp-sized communities brimming with one-of-a-kind restaurants like Clay’s Sapelo Station, Pelican Point, and Skipper’s Fish Camp. Darien, the largest of the McIntosh County communities, is the heart and soul of the Altamaha River delta. It is Georgia’s second oldest planned city, only after Savannah, and in its heyday was one of the state’s leading seaports. Settled by Scottish Highlanders in 1736 on the banks of the Darien River, the town is home to Fort King George, the first fort built by the English on Georgia soil; the made-from-tabby St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church; and the First African Baptist Church, first built in 1834 as a religious center for freed slaves. Spending a day along Darien’s waterfront embodies the poetic romance of Georgia’s low country. Here you can watch shrimp boats as they steadily chug their way from the docks out to sea, enjoy the fiery lightshow of a sunset across the marsh, or simply ramble the town among the historic buildings that give the town its singularity.
If You Go: Visit Darien and McIntosh County Chamber and Visitor Center at www.visitdarien.com or call 912-437-6684. Showcasing Your Community's Personality
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FOR THE FUN FOOD TRAVELER: “Oh, what I wouldn't give for a plate of fried green tomatoes like we used to have at the café! Um-umm!” Ninny Threadgoode (Jessica Tandy) tells her friend, Evelyn Couch (Kathy Bates), as she reminisces about life in Whistle Stop, Alabama. The line is one of the more memorable from the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café.” Granted, both the movie and Fannie Flagg’s book, upon which the film is based, are set in Alabama and not Georgia. And Alabama is where the original Whistle Stop Café, now the Irondale Café in the town of Irondale, is located now. But the movie was filmed in Juliette, near Macon in the heart of Georgia, and helped to put the tiny town on the map. The Whistle Stop Café, originally built as a general store in 1927, is the centerpiece of Juliette, a onetime railroad and mill town that sprang up in the late 1800s. The town gained notoriety again when “Fried Green Tomatoes” was filmed
there in 1991. Even now, with more than a quarter of a century having passed since the filming of the movie, Juliette and the café still lure tourists from around the world to sample its famous fare of fried green tomatoes, which are hand-cut, lightly battered, and then deliciously fried to a golden brown and served with a creamy yet spicy sauce. Other menu items include Bennett’s Barbecue (“The secret’s in the sauce!”), chicken dishes of Yard Bird Filet and Biddie Nuggets, and even a Fried Green Tomato Salad topped with chunks of fried green tomatoes and Sweet Vidalia Onion dressing. For sides, country cooking rules. Think: zipper peas, macaroni-andcheese, and biscuits so rich that you won’t have to bother with the butter. There’s more to the Whistle Stop Café than fried green tomatoes and country cooking. With its hardwood floors, antiques, and movie memorabilia adorning the walls, the café is a must on anyone’s bucket list for unique Georgia dining destinations.
If You Go: The Whistle Stop Café is in Juliette, about an hour’s drive south of Atlanta. Call 478-992-8886 or visit www.TheWhistleStopCafe.com.
FOR THE ADVENTUROUS – THE OKEFENOKEE: One of the most extraordinary facets of the Okefenokee Swamp is its utter quietness, or so you might think. Then sound by sound, you realize it’s not really quiet at all. Like a perfectly composed symphony of nature, the refuge comes alive with myriad sounds of cardinals and brown thrashers trilling in the distance, squirrels excitedly chattering at some secret discovery, crickets chirping in the dense underbrush, bullfrogs croaking their strange songs, the soft fwip-fwipping of gators diving for some underwater treasure, and the powerful whisper of the wind sighing through the tallest of pines.
If you go: The North Entrance is at Okefenokee Swamp Park near Waycross and is privately owned. Visit www.OkeSwamp.com or call (912) 283-0583. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is at the East Entrance at Folkston and is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; visit http://www.fws.gov/okefenokee or call (912) 496-7836. The West Entrance is at Stephen C. Foster State Park; visit www. GaStateParks.org or call (912) 637-5274. 86
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The Okefenokee – the word comes from the Native Americans and means “Land of the Trembling Earth” – sweeps across more than 700 square miles of South Georgia, cutting a wide swath of wetlands, uplands, islands, and pine forests. The vast peat bog is home to hundreds of plant and bird species including blue herons and egrets, mammals including black bear and whitetail deer, and reptiles, snakes, and amphibians. More than 20,000 American alligators live in the swamp. Visiting the Okefenokee is an unforgettable experience that’s tantamount to stepping back to the days of dinosaurs. There is no other place like it on Earth it for wilderness canoeing, nature photography, birding, boating, hiking, catching glimpses of endangered species, and fishing for warmouth, bass, bream and catfish.
Small Town – Big Business Showcase Publications, Inc. is a family-owned publishing business specializing in lifestyle magazines that showcase a community's spirit through positive stories about hometown heroes, special events, unique places, arts and culture, and more. Our community magazines are used to promote local businesses, help recruit new businesses & professionals, and for tourism marketing. SUMMER 2017
Wayne County MAGAZINE
WAYNE COUNTY MAGAZINE
WCHS BASEBALL Class AAAAA State Runner-Up
The Strand once again brightens Cherry Street
Showcasing Wayne County’s Personality Where It All Comes Together
Coming Soon - Traditions Highway 15 Magazine & Travel Guide
Targeted Local Advertising We provide businesses the opportunity to reach consumers in a 14-county area through local and regional high-quality, perfect bound magazines. We print over 46,000 magazines annually with an estimated readership of 3. 5 readers per copy. •Magazines are much more trusted, inspiring, and influential than any other media. •Magazines are #1 in advertising engagement and in reaching super influential consumers than any other media. •91% of all adults read magazine media. •61% of magazine ads prompt readers to take action. (Source: The Association of Magazine Media (magazine.org) and the Magazine Media 360 Brand Management Report)
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Connie Riddle 912-424-8772
John Riddle 912-424-3027
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Index of Advertisers 88
3 51 11 BC 45 5 47 28,40 65 59 67 67 55 15 8 69 1 13 17 65 59 71 57 82 71 39 82 61 69 82 48 7 IFC 61 77 77 82 23 23 IBC 34 77
Bank of Hazlehurst Chip's Discount Drugs City of Hazlehurst Coastal Pines Technical College Corner Market Trading Company Edwin I. Hatch Plant Fales Furniture First Baptist Church First United Methodist Church of Hazlehurst Friends of Towns Bluff Park & Museum Hardies Drug Store Hardware Pizza Hazlehurst Court Care & Rehab Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis Board of Tourism Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis Chamber of Commerce Hospice of South Georgia Interstate Credit Union Jeff Davis County Commissioners Jeff Davis County Schools Joint Development Authority of Jeff Davis County, Hazlehurst, & Denton Johnson Office Solutions Lamar A. Elder, Jr. Manna Café & Eatery McClendon-Reynolds Insurance Agency, Inc. Meadows Advanced Wound Care Center Ocmulgee Outdoors Pallet One Photography by Nelson & Company Renasant Bank SEGA Services Smith & Bennett Southern Eye Care State Farm-Daniel Ellis, Agent Stone's Machine Shop The Bankruptcy Group, LLC The Diamond Gallery Village Pizza Whitfield and Butler, PC Whitfield Realty Williams Brothers Trucking Woodcock Photography Worth Monument
bankofhazlehurst.com hazlehurstga.gov coastalpines.edu southerncompany.com falesfurniturestore.com fbchazlehurst.org hazlehurstmethodist.weebly.com townsbluffpark.com hardwarepizza.com hazlehurst-jeffdavis.org/board-of-tourism hazlehurst-jeffdavis.org hospicesoga.org iufcu.org jeffdaviscounty.org jeff-davis.k12.ga.us jeffdavisjda.com shop.op247.com/7210?GrpID=JOSI-HAZLEHURST
mclendonreynoldsinsuranceagency.com meadowsregional.org/physicians/list/wound-care ocmulgeeoutdoorsinc.com palletone.com photographybynelson.net renasantbank.com srblawpc.com southerneyecarepc.com myagentdanielellis.com stones-machine-shop.com bankruptcygroup.net
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Jeff Davis Living
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