Okefenokee Living Magazine Spring 2018

$4.00

Mossy Pond RETRIEVERS

A PASSION RUNS THROUGH IT

WWII VETERAN – AL FUNDERBURK | DANCING WITH THE SOUTHERN STARS | BEAU + LUCI ART & CULTURE, TRAVEL, PROFILES WINTER 2018 O’ROUND THE REGION – UNIQUE PLACES TO DINE, SHOP, PLAY, & STAY

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS REGULAR FEATURES 63 O’ROUND THE REGION Highlighting unique places to dine, shop, play and stay in the Okefenokee Region.

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73 ARTS & CULTURE

Highlighting the region’s unique cultural events and three

of the region’s artists—Master Photographer Tracy Bosworth

Page and Watercolorist Ernie Hendrix, and memorable pho-

tography of the recent snow by Photographer Scott Beahan.

81 TRAVEL

Uncovering fascinating American history sites within and around the Okefenokee region.

87 JAMES FARMER A PLACE TO CALL HOME

In his new book, A Place To Call Home, Framer writes about

his love and passion for curating spaces for friends who have become family.

92 CHIT CHAT

Featuring good news and short takes to highlight social and

business events from around the region, including OL SEENS.

ARTICLES

8 Q&A With Renue Plastic Surgery 39 Sleep – The Golden Chain That Ties Health and our Bodies Together

ABOUT THE COVER:

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Brad and Ellen Arington are living their dream on a piece of dirt that took shape over many years, a lot of hard work, and perseverance.

But one thing is certain – Mossy Pond is more than just a business to them – it’s their passion. Pictured on the cover are Brad and Ellen with their three children Jones (11 months), Hadley (6 - center), and Grayson (8) in front of Mossy Pond Lodge.

At Ace Equipment Company, our experienced team helps farmers and producers stay as productive as possible in the field.

Our employees are highly trained in sales and service, providing our ag community with the latest equipment and parts, fast repairs and trusted customer support.

6348 Timber Lane • Blackshear, GA 31516 912-449-4355 • aceequipment.com

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SPECIAL FEATURES 11 MOSSY POND RETRIEVERS A PASSION RUNS THROUGH IT

Mossy Pond is more than just a business to Brad and Ellen Arington—it’s their passion!

21 PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES

Relive the fun as Thirteen teams danced the night away for the fourth annual charity event Dancing with the Southern Stars.

27 BRAVERY, HUMILITY AND A LEGACY

A heroic portrayal of one soldier narrowly escaping WWII with his life and how those harrowing events shaped his life.

34 THE SWAMP ROCKS!

Since the release of their EP “Fire Dancer,” BEAU + LUCI’s music has taken off like a runaway freight train.

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40 OWNING OCEAN FRONT PROPERTY

Southern Ionics Minerals is providing a new economic boost to the Okefenokee Region.

45 PROFILES 45 LEADERSHIP WAYCROSS Learning to find remedies – not faults.

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50 JASON STRICKLAND

The Pierce County High School Football Coach doesn’t act like anyone but himself.

52 DR. WILLIAM CLARK, III, M.D.

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Dr. William Clark, also known as “The Young Dr. Clark” never wanted to be a doctor but was just recognized for performing his 20,000th surgery.

56 THE HEART AND SOUL OF ALMA

Whether it’s a wedding, bridal shower or holiday party, Blueberry Plantation Inn and Country Club has every amenity to suit even the most discriminating tastes.

60 RICHARD’S MEATS & SEAFOOD

Gregory Calley’s father not only passed down the business, but he also passed down the tradition of fine service and delicious food Greg is still serving in Homerville.

62 COASTAL PINES TECHNICAL COLLEGE – 2017 COLLEGE OF THE YEAR

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Top enrollment growth and highest graduation rate push CPTC over the top.

World Class

ORTHOPAEDICS JESUP | WAYCROSS | HINESVILLE | BAXLEY

ADVANCED BOTOX® THERAPY

USED TO TREAT MIGRAINES AS WELL AS SPASTICITY DUE TO STROKE

Shoulder / ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR LESS INVASIVE PROCEDURES ARTHROSCOPY

ELBOW / JOINT REPAIR

TENNIS ELBOW / BURSECTOMY ARTHROSCOPY

ADVANCED SPINE SURGERY MULTIPLE PROCEDURES COVERING THE ENTIRE NECK AND SPINE

HAND / WRIST REPAIR

MULTIPLE PROCEDURES TRAUMA REPAIR ARTHROSCOPY CARPAL TUNNEL

TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT

ANTERIOR APPROACH IS LESS INVASIVE AND ALLOWS FOR A QUICKER RECOVERY

ELECTRODIAGNOSTICS ADVANCED TESTING PROCEDURES WITH MANY NON SURGICAL TREATMENTS

It is our goal to offer the best possible care to you and your family!

KNEE PROCEDURES

MENISCUS REPAIR TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT ARTHROSCOPY LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION

FOOT / ANKLE

ACHILLES TENDON REPAIR SPRAINS / TRAUMA / ARTHRITIS ARTHROSCOPY BUNIONS

THE BONE & JOINT INSTITUTE OF SOUTH GEORGIA IS HERE TO HELP!

For an appointment, call toll free (866) 806-0800 or (912) 427-0800 | www.BJISG.com | www.Facebook.com/BJISG WINTER 2018 5 J. Lex Kenerly, III, MD • J. Matthew Valosen, MD • Thomas P. Loumeau, MD • Amber Aragon, MD • Monica Carrion-Jones, MD W. Scott Rowell, P.A. • W. Stephen Hutcheson, P.A.-C • Kyle Deuter, P.A.-C

FROM THE PUBLISHER Editor-In-Chief:

John F. Riddle

Publishers:

John F. & Connie K. Riddle Showcase Publications, Inc.

Creative Director: Stacey Nichols

Feature Photographer & Cover Shutterly Perfect Portraiture

Scott Beahan

John Riddle, Publisher

Connie Riddle, Publisher

What began as an idea….

Okefenokee Living magazine began with the goal of publishing a regional magazine that would highlight the best that the Okefenokee region has to offer. Now, with the third issue, we feel confident we’re achieving that goal and building a knowledge base of the region’s people, places, businesses, organizations, and events that made the area so unique.

More businesses see Okefenokee Living as a viable way to establish their brand’s footprint and reach a highly sought-after consumer base in the eight-county area and beyond. More readers are looking forward to the thoughtful stories, profiles, and articles highlighting people they know, the businesses they frequent, and the places they enjoy.

We hope you’re enjoying it too. This issue covers a wide range of topics and highlights a diverse group of people who are living life to the fullest, making a difference in the community, and enriching the region with their service.

Designers: Robert Self

Russ Hutto

Contributing Photographers: Tracy Bosworth Page

Wayne Morgan

Kathy Hendrix, Kathy HH Photos

Emily Followill

Fiona Van Grey

Bayli Helmick

Tina Guess Photography

Mattie Genaux Photography

Conner

Selph Photography

Shan Walker

Dianna Dawn Photography

Contributing Writers: Candice McKinley

Derby Waters

John DuPont

Shan Walker

John F. Riddle

Scott Beahan

Mary Ann Anderson

Tracy Bosworth Page

James Farmer

To keep up with what’s going on in the region between issues visit us on Facebook. For more information on contributing ideas or advertising contact us through our website: showcasepublicationsga.com. We welcome your ideas as we continue to expand the magazine’s reach and we value your input on story ideas.

Always be sure to visit the Index of Advertisers in the back and remember to shop local!

Enjoy!

John & Connie Riddle

info@showcasepublicationsga.com

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Okefenokee Living magazine is a regional lifestyle magazine which highlights the unique communities in the Okefenokee Region through positive stories about home-town heroes, special events, unique places to visit and promoting local businesses! The magazine’s coverage includes the Ware-Pierce County corridor and the surrounding counties of Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, and Coffee counties.

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Content Manager : Candice McKinley

Okefenokee Living is published bi-annually by Showcase Publications, Inc. (912)-424-8772 – P.O. Box 391 | Jesup, GA 31598 www.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.

The nest issue of Okefenokee Living will be published in Summer/Fall 2018. To advertise contact Connie Riddle (912-4248772) or criddle@showcasepublicationsga.com. To ensure you get a copy, purchase a subscription on-line at showcasepublicationsga.com or use the subscription form in the magazine.

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Board Certified by The American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

Featuring Vionic* with Orthaheel Technology.

Sandals, shoes and slippers available in fashionable styles and colors.

MLS THERAPY – The alternative pain management solution to surgery and painkillers.

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Board Certified by The American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

ARCH DISORDERS • BUNIONS CORNS & CALLOUSES • HAMMER TOES HEEL SPURS • INGROWN NAILS • WARTS ANKLE & FOOT DEFORMITIES SPORTS INJURIES • FRACTURES SPRAINS • DIABETIC FOOT CARE TRE LASER TREATMENT FOR FUNGAL NAILS

We accept most all insurance plans.

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A R T I C L E - Q & A W I T H R E N U E P L AST I C S U R G E R Y

Dr. Steve Barr, Dr. Bill Mitchell, Dr. Bradley Easterlin

Renue Plastic Surgery Committed to Serving Waycross Area Renue Plastic Surgery has been a fixture in Waycross for over 12 years. OL Magazine sat down with Dr. Bill Mitchell recently to find out more about their extensive services including CoolSculpting, the newest body contouring procedure.

What made Renue decide to open an office in Waycross?

Our patients in the Waycross area would travel to our Brunswick office, and we kept hearing from them that there was a need for our services in Waycross. In 2005 my partner, Dr. Steve Barr, and I began going to Waycross a couple of days a week. Patients were happy to have us there locally, and doctors in the area were glad to have the option of referring patients to experienced, boardcertified plastic surgeons without sending them out of town.

Doctor and patient referrals grew, so we made a commitment to serving Waycross and the surrounding communities by building an office, the design of which was inspired by Waycross’s rich railroad history. We also added a third physician, Dr. Bradley Easterlin, to accommodate our growing patient base and opened our private, fully credentialed outpatient surgery center.

What makes the patient experience at Renue unique?

What makes us unique is the patient experience including personalized care and access to timely appointments with 8

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experienced board certified plastic surgeons; a caring and professional staff; the convenience of having surgery in a local, privately-owned, fully credentialed surgery center; a results oriented medical spa offering facial rejuvenation treatments, laser treatments, Botox and fillers; and CoolSculpting, a non-surgical option for body contouring.

What is the biggest misconception about plastic surgery?

Patients are surprised to find out that certain plastic surgery procedures are frequently covered by insurance including breast reduction, abdominoplasty, upper eyelid surgery/brow lift, varicose vein surgery, skin cancer surgery, hand surgery, breast reconstruction and scar revision from previous surgery or trauma.

For insurance to cover surgery, the condition being corrected by the procedure must meet the insurance company’s criteria for medical necessity. For example, large breasts commonly cause shoulder grooves from bra straps and neck/back pain. Droopy eyelids can impair vision. Our dedicated precertification specialist advocates on patients’ behalf with insurance companies and has a stellar track record obtaining approval for surgeries.

Sponsored Content

Renue recently started offering CoolSculpting. What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting has received a lot of national and international attention and was ranked “#1 Fat Fighter” for the fourth year in a row

by New Beauty Magazine in 2017. CoolSculpting is a non-surgical option for patients who have areas of stubborn fat on their abdomen, inner or outer thighs, flank/side, or under their chin. CoolSculpting is the only FDA-approved, non-invasive fat-reduction technology that targets and freezes fat cells to eliminate 20-25% of fat in the treated area without surgery or downtime. Most patients resume their normal activities, including going to the gym, immediately after treatment.

The science behind CoolSculpting is cryolipolysis, a unique cooling technology invented by Harvard scientists and doctors to target and freeze fat cells, breaking down fat cells without harming other surrounding tissues. The broken down fat cells are then eliminated through the body’s normal metabolic processes. Since the number of fat cells in our bodies typically becomes fixed in our teenage years, these eliminated fat cells will not be replaced.

Why should patients choose Renue Plastic Surgery for CoolSculpting?

1905 Tebeau St, Waycross, GA 31501 (912) 285-4366 | www.renuemd.com Brunswick - Jesup - St. Marys - St. Simons Island

Applying our extensive experience in body contouring procedures, our CoolSculpting specialists develop an individualized treatment plan taking into account each patient’s goals and giving a realistic expectation of results. If CoolSculpting alone will not achieve the results a patient is looking for, we can offer other options, such as liposuction or abdominoplasty, or the patient might opt for using CoolSculpting in combination with another procedure. With three “Cool” locations in Brunswick, St. Marys and Waycross, Renue Plastic Surgery is the largest CoolSculpting provider in southeast Georgia.

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ADVERTORIAL

Pierce Timber Company Providing jobs for Pierce and the surrounding counties.

(l to r): Edna Odum, Caroline Morgan, Sherry Harris, Dana Todd

(l to r): Donald Smith, Chris Mock, Jay Lynn, Josh Cave, Chad Nimmer, Randy Dixon, Hugh Thompson(center-President), Loran Tuten, Brian Peacock, Tracy Harris, Jamie Giddens, Ray Carter, Brett Deloach, Trey Thompson

H.M. “Mac� Thompson was born September 20, 1932 in Toombs County, Vidalia, GA. He was the youngest of seven children. Mac graduated high school in 1950 and attended Brewton Parker College.

He served in the Military Service from 1950-1953.

Mac moved to Pierce County in 1955 and in 1962 he bought Pierce Timber Company. Pierce Timber Company has provided many jobs for Pierce County natives and surrounding counties. With Pierce Timber being the mother company, there are ten plus logging crews, land clearing reforestation crew, and many contract producers that help make it a successful company.

The administrative staff includes 13 foresters who work with land owners and mills in purchasing and selling of timber.

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After 48 years of managing Pierce Timber Company, Mac made the decision to step down and sell the company to his son Hugh M. Thompson, Jr. Hugh was born and raised in Blackshear, Georgia. He is married to Kristi Thompson and has three children Trey (24), Tessa (20) and Tristin (13). He and his family attend First Baptist Church in Blackshear, GA.

Hugh graduated from Pierce County High School in 1982, and then furthered his education at Valdosta State University where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1987. After graduation, Hugh returned home and joined his father in the family timber business. He has worked in the business since 1987 and later purchased it in 2010. Within his industry, Hugh has served on the Board of Directors of the Georgia Forestry Association for 3 years and now serves on the Executive Committee. Hugh has also served on the Okefenokee Technical College Foundation Board, the YMCA Board, the Board of Directors of Peoples Bank/Heritage Bank and has been the Chairman of the Pierce County Recreation Department. Hugh is an avid outdoors man. He enjoys deer and bird hunting, as well as playing golf.

2943 Bob Bowen Rd. Blackshear, GA 31516 912-449-6190

Mossy Pond Retrievers – A Passion Runs Through It

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT BEAHAN – SHUTTERLY PERFECT PORTRAITURE

Brad and Ellen Arington are living their dream on a piece of dirt that took shape over many years, a lot of hard work, and perseverance. But one thing is certain Mossy Pond is more than just a business to them- it’s their passion.

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Brad began training dogs in his mother’s backyard. In 2005, he leased a kennel where he could board and train more dogs. Brad’s love of hunting and dogs is the passion behind Mossy Pond Retrievers.

“You’re going to train my dog like yours,” Joe Pete Boatright told Brad Arington as he put down a case of shotgun shells on the tailgate of his truck after a hunt hosted by Ray Stanfield, a local farmer, in 2002. Boatright had been very impressed with how Brad’s dogs performed on the hunt – much better than his own. Brad had no idea that that encounter would lead to a business where folks would pay much more than a case of shells for him to train their dogs. At the time, at age 19, he was just glad to have a whole case of shotgun shells at one time and had no idea what his future held.

In 2005, he leased a kennel from Eddie Bennett where he could board and train more dogs. He was training in the morning in Mershon and driving to Patterson to work on the farm in the afternoons while maintaining his full-time job as an electrician with CSX on the night shift. He and Ellen’s father began discussing the time it was taking for him to travel. So, Ellen’s grandfather, Lewis Stanfield, deeded Brad seven acres of nonfarm land to start a kennel and to train dogs on the farm.

One thing he was certain of was that the farmer’s daughter, Ellen Stanfield, just 17 years old, would be a part of whatever his future held. He certainly could not imagine that on the very piece of land where he stood that day, they, together, would build a business around Brad’s dog training abilities and Ellen’s southern hospitality known as Mossy Pond.

That’s when Brad and Ellen decided for Brad to quit his job with CSX to train his dogs full-time. He also needed time to spend clearing and preparing their newly acquired land for which they had major plans. That seven acres was the start of Mossy Pond and are now the site of the current lodge, kennels, and pro shop.

He eventually built a 40-dog kennel that he thought he would never fill, and hired his first trainer, Lee Howard, who still works with them today as a trainer and manager.

By 2004, Brad was training dogs in his mother’s backyard.

That same year he began working for Ellen’s dad on his farm.

Brad and Ellen were engaged in 2007 and married the next year.

Ellen was still working in the field of nuclear medicine at

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Mossy Pond Team: Jagger Leggett, Lee Howard, Carter Turner, Bill Arthur, Cody Turner, Anwar Padgett, Hunter Strickland, Mack Boatright, Hunter Boatright

Lee Howard, Manager

“Being able to do something that I love is a blessing beyond measure and seeing a dog that knew nothing when I got him become the companion and hunting partner his/her owner always wanted makes it even better. " - Lee Howard

Jacob Weaver, Veterinary Technician

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"I grew up quail hunting with my father, who always had a bird dog, every Saturday and holiday. I worked with pointing dogs for so long while I worked at White Oak Plantation, a private plantation. Then, a friend gave me a lab, still a dog but a new game. That got me into the retriever game. I enjoy working young dogs. Like students in a classroom, all are different.

You as a trainer have to change the way you train so that they understand them. You've always got to have a bag of tricks for each dog." – Mack Boatright

Mack Boatright, one of the trainers, works with a beautiful brown retriever at Mossy Pond Retrievers which currently has 26 dogs running at a Master Hunter (MH) level and / or are Hunting Retriever Champions, taking home 107 ribbons in 2010 and 2011; 257 ribbons in 2012.

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Mossy Pond Lodge has become synonymous with not only professional dog training and hunting, but, also as a wedding venue since the first wedding for Ellen’s sister, Emily Stanfield Hughes, was held there shortly after it opened in 2011. Currently, they host over 30 weddings annually.

Hosanna Hodges manages the retail shop, Mossy Pond Outfitters, which carries a branded line of clothing and other high-end outdoor apparel.

Memorial Health in Waycross. The business was growing, and soon they realized they needed Ellen’s help full-time. “Brad was traveling almost every weekend for field trials,” Ellen explained. “Our growing family needed me. It was always a goal to join the business. We needed more time together. I loved my career, but it was time to invest everything in our family and the business.”

Things were going well. Brad’s reputation was growing as an excellent trainer. But, he noticed that the dogs they trained were not performing as well for their owners once they got back home. That gave Brad an idea. “Owners were picking up their dogs,” he explained, “and when I followed up with the owners, the dogs weren’t where we wanted them to be. We needed a place for clients to stay comfortably overnight so they could hunt their dogs when they picked them up and stay here and

learn to work their dogs.”

They soon began making plans to build a lodge on the property to accommodate field trial competitions, to host dog training seminars, and to lodge customers who were picking up their dogs. In March 2011, they broke ground on the lodge on the same seven acres Ellen’s Dad deeded to Brad to build his first kennel. The future seemed bright.

But, the next month tragedy struck when Ellen’s Dad passed away after a short illness. “It was a big question as to what to do when he got sick,’ Brad said. “Should we sell the land? I had farmed with him the year he passed away. It was just too important to us to let it go. I told him we wouldn’t sell it. He pushed me to do it more than anyone. Even when he got sick, he asked me, ‘Are you still going to build the lodge?’” Ellen agreed, “My WINTER 2018

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Dad was excited and confident that we would be successful. He was comfortable with our plans.”

The lodge was completed later that year, and the experience of a simulated hunt for the owners when they picked up their dogs was a big advantage to training the owners on how to work their dogs and get them to do the things they had been trained to do. The Mossy Pond experience was enhanced even more, and along with it, Brad’s reputation for both highly effective dog training and Ellen’s for highly personalized customer service.

However, soon after the lodge was built in 2011, locals recognized its potential for an entirely different use. When

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Ellen’s sister, Emily Stanfield Hughes, wanted to be married at the lodge in April 2012, they gladly obliged not knowing they were opening the doors to a new use of Mossy Pond that would help diversify its clientele. Soon afterward, the wedding business took hold. “We never dreamed it would be a wedding venue, but it is a beautiful spot for that. Now have upwards of 30 weddings a year between September and May,” Ellen explained. Many dog owners still stay during the week and on weekends when the lodge is available.

In 2013, Brad was looking for “an edge”—a way to take his dog training to the next level. “I was considering contracting with an expert but was afraid it might downplay my own reputation. Then someone said to me, ‘…even Tiger Woods has

a coach.’” Soon, he hired Hugh Arthur who has trained more dogs than anyone which have gone on to win field trials. With Arthur as his mentor, Brad was able to mold the Mossy Pond experience even more. “That’s what made me a great trainer,” Brad explained. Soon they had built a second kennel that could hold up to 90 dogs.

Not ones to rest on their laurels, they have acquired more than 600 acres, contiguous to their current site, on which to build a bigger lodge and to host plantation style hunts, a dream Brad has always had. The pair has already hired three new employees who are preparing the land for the first guided hunts in the Fall of 2018.

With all its success, including a national reputation and playing host to famous clients, Mossy Pond is more than just a business.

It’s home to Brad and Ellen and their family, a place that has special ties to their past.

“It’s a special place to be because we grew up on this farm,” Ellen said. “I lost my Mom when I was 12. Brad and I started dating when I was 15. We were here with Dad all the time – seven days a week. If it was daylight, we were together. It’s all I’ve ever known. As kids, we played in the same dirt that my kids play in now. It feels right. It makes my heart happy at the end of the day.” Brad agrees, “I started coming here at 17. Most of my memories are here too.”

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With all of its success, including a national reputation and playing host to famous clients, Mossy Pond is more than just a business. It's home to Brad and Ellen and their family, a place that has special ties to their past.

They feel that this is exactly where they belong, though they never thought that owning a dog training facility and wedding venue is what they would be doing on this spot. “I would have never thought that this is what we would have here,” Brad said. “We feel blessed and are thankful to God for His blessings.”

However, the business requires constant attention and highly personalized care to their clients, both dogs, and humans.

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“You have to love it and have a passion for it. There are a lot of hard, long hours,” Ellen explained. “We wouldn’t trade it for anything though,” Brad said. “If I won the lottery I would be doing the same thing the next day,” he added.

Brad and Ellen Arrington are living their dream on a piece of dirt that took shape over many years, a lot of hard work, and perseverance. But one thing is certain - Mossy Pond is more than just a business to them- it’s their passion.

• No surgery or little to no downtime • Proven safe and effective • Millions of treatments worldwide

1905 Tebeau Street | Waycross, GA 31501 912.285.4366 Brunswick • Jesup • St. Marys • St. Simons Island

renuemd.com

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Dancing Put on Your

SHOES

STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT BEAHAN PORTRAITURE

T

hirteen teams danced all night during the fourth annual Dancing with the Southern Stars event, benefitting the Magnolia House. The Magnolia House leveraged money raised through Dancing with the Southern Stars, being awarded $750,000 by the Department of Community Affairs to build a Youth Development Center.

Michelle Girtman, Magnolia House Executive Director said she was, “excited to see a 20 year dream come to life!” She thanked the Ware County Board of Commissioners and the supporters of Dancing with the Southern Stars for believing in the project. She went on to say that that the project was, “needed for the many children and teens that come through the shelter program each year."

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The Magnolia House started the hit show Dancing with the Southern Stars four years ago in order to raise money to build the Youth Center. With community support they have been able to purchase the land, hire an architect and develop the plans for the site. However, more was needed to make the center a reality.

1st place winners Ray Cunningham & Opal Taylor

Magnolia House brought the idea before the Ware Board of Commissioners and requested to apply for a Community Development Block Grant. The commissioners reviewed their project plans and determined that there was a need for the project. Ware County then asked Kimberly Hobbs and her team at the South Georgia Rural Development Commission to write the grant. On October 4, 2017, their dreams became reality when The Ware County Board of Commissioners was selected as the 2017-2018 Community Development Block Grant recipient to support the Magnolia House Youth Development Center project.

Magnolia House shelter for the Abused has been in operation since 1984 and serves five counties in South Georgia: Coffee, Bacon, Brantley, Pierce and Ware. If you are a victims of Domestic Violence call 1-800-33-Haven for your nearest shelter.

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2nd place winners Carol Clarke & Richard Sowell

3rd place winners Jenny Starling & Jackson Hobbs

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Maisie Stewart and John Stephens

Len Knowlton and Margaret Ruth Steedley

Kelly Andrews and Scott McCarty

Heather Hall and Josh Lancaster

Kim Mixon and Levi Herrin

Amanda Morris and Taylor Hereford

Yolanda Rivers and Tyrone Harris

Mindee Tindall and Robbie Williams

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Kaitlyn Young and Tommy Sweeney

Kaitlyn Campbell and Alex Bell

Lori McNease, Surrell Ziegler and Michelle Girtman

The Johnathon Day Band

IF YOU ARE BEING ABUSED...

You may feel confused, angry, afraid, trapped and/ or depressed. All of these emotions are normal responses to the abuse. You may also blame yourself for what is happening to you or your children. You should NEVER feel responsible for your abuser's actions and/or language. NO ONE deserves to be a victim of violence.

HOW TO GET HELP Call our 24-Hour Crisis Line and talk to a trained advocate who will LISTEN and provide you with OPTIONS 1-800-33-HAVEN or 912-285-5850 WINTER 2018

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The Historic Strand was built in 1924 in the heyday of cinema. The Strand is a restored Art Deco dinner cinema showing the latest movies and serving quality food.

Every theater features electric leather recliners with personal table.

Menu items include burgers, hotdogs, soups, sandwiches, cold and grilled wraps, Artisan pizza, appetizers, sides, kids meals and traditional movie fare.

Adult Beverages available.

The Historic Strand Dinner Cinema 169 W. Cherry Street • Jesup, Georgia 31545 jesupmovies.com (reserve seating available online) 385-2114 LIVING 26(912) OKEFENOKEE

AL FUNDERBURK BRAVERY, HUMILITY, LEGACY STORY BY SHAN WALKER – PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY AL FUNDERBURK

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agree that World War II Veterans are part of a group coined “the greatest generation” because of their coming of age during the Great Depression and how they bravely volunteered by the hundreds of thousands to fight in World War II. I was raised by one of those WWII Veterans and he was the smartest and most humble gentleman I’ve ever known.

I go out of my way to introduce myself and listen to these men because their stories need to be heard, shared, and remembered. I’m honored to share one story of an incredible 91-year-old WWII Veteran who answered the call and has created an astounding legacy of his own. – Shan Walker

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uring the draft, Aldreth Elvoye Funderburk, “Al,” was an 18-year-old boy that worked in Daytona Beach, Florida and drove home every weekend to Mayo, Florida. Upon a certain arrival home, Al found out that a man in his community had been drafted and had three children at home. Al did not even know the man’s name but said to the draft board, “My goodness, let me go instead and let that man stay at home.”

And they did.

Soon after, Al was sent to Fort McClellan, Alabama for basic training as an Infantryman in the United States Army. He went through grueling training for weeks and then was given just a few days leave before being shipped out to war.

Before he knew it, he and about 1800 other men were boarding the USAT J. W. McAndrew in New York that was setting sail to Europe. As the ship passed by the Statue of Liberty this young farm boy said that he almost cried as he thought, “Oh Lord, I hope I get to come back.”

He had no idea about the tragedy that would occur before they could meet their first destination. During one of their late nights across the Atlantic in March 1945, Al was awakened

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from sleep in his top bunk by a loud crash. The sudden jump from his bed led to his hitting the overhead beam and being knocked unconscious.

Little did he know that on the stormy Atlantic, his ship and a nearby French aircraft carrier, the Béarn, had both lost power and collided. When he finally regained consciousness, he was alone and quickly climbed a flight of stairs to get out of there.

He recalled that the hole in the bow made by the collision was about the size of a locomotive.

Men in the upper hold of the ship were required to remain while men like Al in the lower holds vacated quickly in the event that the lower portion was flooding with water. When he made it to the topside, it was beginning to get daylight and he noticed smaller ships that were retrieving men’s bodies from the water.

Incredibly, Al’s ship didn’t sink or capsize, but over 100 were killed in the bow compartment of the collision while others fell to their deaths on impact. He stood and cried while trumpets were blowing Taps at the somber sea burial. Judging by the look in his eyes as he shared this fateful day, it was as if he were back on that Liberty ship again and slowly said “that was the

Al Funderburk photographed during WWII.

“Can you imagine being in a war… a place like that and never having to kill a man? I would have if I’d had to. But I didn’t have to actually kill a person… and that was a blessing.”

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beginning of my wartime.”

The remaining crew anchored in the harbor of the Azores Islands for several days until a British ship took them to Liverpool. They finally arrived on the shores of France and were sent to a camp on the edge of the woods. After a couple days in the camp, they were marched out, divided down into troops, and given their assignments. Al Funderburk was placed in Company D of the 18th Infantry, 1st Division.

He traveled from France to Belgium before arriving in Germany. There was sadness in his voice as he described the desolation and deaths in Europe. He said, “It was a terrible situation. You can’t imagine what it’s like to pull into a good-sized town and the only thing you could see was a smokestack.”

Immediately upon arriving in Germany, they could hear bullets all over, especially when they ricocheted off the old statues of Hitler and the others that were made of cast iron.

“It was terrifying and made us duck our heads so many times!” he exclaimed.

Al was asked to ride in one of the fuel tankers to the enemy camp of Germans about fifteen miles away. He and the driver would have to ease in under a cover of darkness in hopes of not being a target themselves. He knew it was a very dangerous situation, “like sitting on a time bomb,” he said, “just one bad shell on top of that fuel and we’d be gone.” Al completed the mission anyway and shuddered as he shared, “I was thrilled to death to get off of that thing!”

The next few weeks had him in some very tight places, and he ended up in Czechoslovakia. It was wintertime, so one night at the end of his shift; he climbed up in an empty barn with a lot of hay in it. It looked like a good place to lie down to sleep alone and stay warm.

Al and Margie Funderburk have been married for 71 years.

The next morning he saw two German soldiers walking straight toward him and felt terror rising through his body.

Suddenly the German soldiers lifted their hands in the air with a surrendering motion and Al asked them what was going on.

The soldiers replied, “It’s over. The war is over - all was signed last night.”

“God blessed us so immensely, “Al exclaimed more than once. “The best gift was marrying my wife.”

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The tough parts of the war were not over for Al, however.

The Nuremberg Trials were beginning and he was required the guard the area where former leaders of Nazi Germany were put on trial for crimes committed during the war in Nuremberg, Germany.

Finally he was told that he would have two months of leave to go home. Al is 91-years-old but confidently recalled that he arrived home on December 28th of 1945. He explained that he had no idea what he would find but he was grateful to get home.

“I learned a lot and I seen a lot… and a lot that I hated, but you couldn’t help that. You had to go. You had to be there.” With humility he added, “But look what it’s cost America...in lives lost. I wish that young people today could watch films about World War II - to know what it cost to walk in America. It cost something in order to be here [America].”

Al & Margie Funderburk celebrating their 70th Anniversary in 2016 with their five children & their spouses. (Nancy and Steve Funderburk, Sarah and Bruce Funderburk, Jeff Funderburk, Gail Hancock, Debbi Funderburk and Terry Funderburk.

What he did find right away was a familiar hometown girl that had dated one of his friends. He said he felt as if the Lord was prompting him to stop by Margie’s father’s home and let her know what had happened. Al says that when Margie came out and put her arms around him that he never left her side again. His wife of 71 years insisted on the day of our interview that it was a “friend” hug, but with a sly chuckle, Al declared that it was more than that. They were married less than two months later on February 1st.

On his final thoughts about World War II, he responded with

passion, “I learned a lot and I seen a lot… and a lot that I hated, but you couldn’t help that. You had to go. You had to be there.”

With humility he added, “But look what it’s cost America... in lives lost. I wish that young people today could watch films about World War II - to know what it cost to walk in America. It cost something in order to be here [America].”

“God blessed us so immensely," Al exclaimed more than once.

“The best gift was marrying my wife.” He sat thoughtfully a few more moments and then said, “Can you imagine being in a war… a place like that and never having to kill a man?

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Al Funderburk with four of his great-grandchildren at their school’s Veteran’s Day Breakfast. Maddie Malone, Emma-Kate Kirkland, Dalton Malone, Braydan Kirkland

I would have if I’d had to. But I didn’t have to actually kill a person… and that was a blessing.”

Al’s legacy is undeniable. His two younger brothers signed up for the military when they were old enough.

He and his wife helped to begin a mission church in St. Mary’s where they raised their five children, before moving to Pierce County in 2005. Remarkably, Al and Margie also have 49 grand, great-grand, and great-great-grandchildren.

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One of their sons, Jeff, and two of their grandchildren, Melissa and Kirby, served in the military as well. The members of Al’s family are some of the most genuine and wellloved people in their communities - much like Al himself.

Yes, it is evident that Aldreth “Al” Elvoye Funderburk is one of the “greats” that Tom Brokaw wrote about in his book, “The Greatest Generation.” At eighteen, he bravely left all he knew to fight evil and returned home full of humility to leave quite a legacy.

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Photography by Fiona Von Grey

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The

Swamp Rocks

STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY

BEAU + LUCI Infuse Their Love of the Okefenokee Into Their Swamp Rock Music

T

" he last year has been like a runaway freight train," said emerging musical artists BEAU + LUCI. "We had no idea what 2017 was going to bring, no way of knowing it would be like this." The swamp-rock duo was referring to the exponential success that seemed to accumulate almost overnight. Since the release of their EP "Fire Dancer" in early 2017, the pair could recall having only two weekends off in the past year, amid recording, touring and reaching an international audience by landing on the United Kingdom's Country Radio Top 15 for two months.

Beau and Luci live in the greater Atlanta area now but grew up in Waycross. "We performed our first show at Plant Café," said Beau. She said it was the first time she and Luci had performed, and the first time that Plant Café had had a band perform, as well. In addition, they had their first live stream at the café. "It's very much a family-oriented environment—all of Waycross is," said Luci. The pair said they also love visiting Okefenokee Swamp Park to stay in touch with their roots, expressing their love for the folklore and mysticism the swamp offers.

BEAU + LUCI weave the love of the Okefenokee into their own style of Americana Rock and Blues - named for them by influential music makers as Swamp Rock - greatly influenced by the Allman Brothers and Graham Parsons, who also grew up in and around the region. The duo said that over the last year, they have continued to evolve musically WINTER 2018

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BEAU + LUCI performing at The Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia.. Photography by Bayli Helmick.

into their more saturated Swamp Rock sound, but also drawing influence from Fleetwood Mac, The Allman Brothers, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Arctic Monkeys, and The White Stripes, along with gospels and spirituals they also listened to growing up.

The band's single "Fire Dancer" was released in January of 2017, followed by the EP of the same name in March and BEAU + LUCI have been touring since. Life on the road gave the pair and their “momager,” mother and manager, Allison Taylor Turner, the chance to visit venues all over Georgia and beyond, with a westward tour including Colorado, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, Kansas, Oklahoma, and back again to Georgia to open for BlackBerry Smoke, A Thousand Horses and Muddy Magnolias. In addition, they played at the Legal Food Frenzy in partnership with Feeding America in Tifton GA and will be partnering across the nation with Share Our Strength #No Kid Hungry in 2018.

The two sisters shared the origins and narratives behind some of the songs on Fire Dancer:

Beau and Luci grew up in Waycross and began “performing” at a young age. Photo courtesy of the family.

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"Fire Dancer", the single, is a beautiful and sort of sad story, to us. You see this character, the Fire Dancer, uses an element that is known to cause damage and devastation, but he’s using it to create beauty and art that comforts and brings joy to those who were once so intimidated by it. He is using the pain that he feels to fuel this expression of an inner light. We wrote this

BEAU + LUCI saw their music and swamp rock sound take off in 2017.

Photography by Fiona Von Grey

song based loosely on the character of Dust Finger in Cornelia Funke’s Inkheart trilogy."

We wrote “Muddy Water” while we were in Macon, to see Gregg Allman in concert for the first time. We went a day early, so we could make a pilgrimage of sorts to all the places the Allman Brothers made famous, including The Big House Museum, H & H Soul Food and Rose Hill Cemetery. We visited the graves of Duane Allman and Berry Oakley, then walked down the hillside to the Bond family tomb, which overlooks the railroad tracks and the muddy Ocmulgee River. Macon has always held a sense of magic to us. Some of our favorite bands called it home.

The soul of the town and the legends who lived there inspired us to write Muddy Water, with the hope that we would carry on that legacy in our way, so that song means a lot to us."

"Like A Drum" is a real anthem of holding on for one more day, every day, especially on days when gravity seems more to be forcing you to your knees rather than gently holding you in your

place on Earth. When it feels like everyone and everything is out to get you and the whole world feels like it’s weighing down on your ribcage, it’s a reminder that there’s always more to do, further to go, and you can always face your fears and overcome obstacles, because you are so much stronger than you ever imagine you’d be.

Turning toward the future of their music, BEAU + LUCI have been defining what 2018 will look like and are focused on meetings in New York, New Jersey, and Nashville Tennessee with their new manager, Michael Lehman (Music Manager for Gregg Allman and Run DMC), and team, Lindsay Lehman and Mike Wenger. BEAU + LUCI will release a live concert album early in the 2018 that was recorded at the Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins Colorado featuring The Howling Tongues. Tour dates for 2018 will be announced soon. For more information about BEAU + LUCI, visit their website at www.beauandluci.tv, Join the Family, and connect on social platforms.

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A

Sponsored Content

ARTICLE - SLEEP

Sleep – The Golden Chain That Ties Health and our Bodies Together

BY AL THOMAS, REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST AND OWNER, THE CPAP STORE

S-l-e-e-p. Some people achieve it easily. Some people struggle.

Some people can’t sleep at all. But, without it, our health and body cease to function effectively.

It is in the restful bliss of sleep that the human body provides the mind and body a place to relax, reboot, and recharge. We spend an average of one-third of our lives sleeping. If you live to be 75 years old, you would have slept for 25 years of your life. For some, this spent time can be an adventurous escape from the world or it can be a nightmarish experience full of restlessness and unfulfilled expectations.

How do I know if I have a sleep disorder?

Millions of Americans experience poor sleep on a nightly basis.

You can see them everywhere you go…

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Obstructive Sleep Apnea has been linked to chronic conditions including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and are identified in people with excessive daytime sleepiness, chronic headaches, erectile dysfunction, irritability, and an overall sense of poor health, and chronic loud SNORING, among others.

What causes sleep apnea?

The most common, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), is a sleep disorder in which major pauses in breathing occur during sleep disrupting the normal progression of sleep. The pauses occur because the muscles surrounding the airway relax causing the airway to collapse or close and block the flow of oxygen into the lungs. OSA is not always a result of obesity but rather can also be linked to anatomical anomalies like deviated septum, chronic sinusitis, enlarged tonsils/uvula, and many other anomalies So, how do you treat sleep apnea?

There are several different ways to treat OSA. Mouthpieces, surgical procedures, and weight loss are ways a person may im-

prove their sleep quality. But, the most effective way to guarantee relief from Obstructive Sleep Apnea is through the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device. A CPAP introduces a steady stream of air into your airway that stops the muscles around your airway from collapsing and blocking the flow of air.

It is used in conjunction with a face mask that gently allows you to breathe easily and deeply throughout your sleep time.

What can I expect from using a CPAP? I know a 45-year-old man who had been suffering for a long time with anxiety attacks that occurred during sleep, hypertension, poor energy level, and depression. He would come home at the end of the day and collapse in his recliner. His wife complained excessively about the little help she was getting with the home chores. He snored very loudly at night and was threatened to be kicked out of the bed if he didn’t do something about his snoring. So, he obtained a CPAP device and began to use it. His energy level improved. His anxiety and depression improved to the point he didn’t need medication any longer. His snoring ceased. That man is me. After seven months of use, I feel the best I have felt in 20 years.

But, I tried CPAP and I wasn’t successful. What now?

Now, I know you have had or heard horror stories of CPAP. And, unfortunately, some of the stories are true. Some medical equipment companies do a poor job at educating, fitting, and following the progression of therapy on their patients. A company that takes time to make sure the patient feels comfortable with the device and understands why the device is important has a successful and satisfied patient.

If you have tried a CPAP in the past and had a negative experience, try again! Find the medical equipment provider that will take time with you and walk with you through the process. You deserve another chance to make your life better. You won’t be sorry.

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How Does It Feel To Own

Ocean-Front Property?

Old Beaches Providing New Economic Boost to the Okefenokee Region STORY BY DERBY WATERS

Y

ou might have never thought of it, but chances are if you live in South Georgia, you live on ocean-front property. It’s just that the ocean was here millions of years ago. And while you may not see the surf rolling in, that sandy soil left beneath you may still be very valuable.

You see, for millions of years, the Appalachian Mountains have been wearing down. And all those tons that have been carved out of those higher elevations have washed down to create the land we live on. There on those beaches of eons ago, the soils and minerals from the highlands were deposited along what was then the coastline. As the oceans rose and receded, the beaches moved and finally moved to where they are today.

And some of what was left in the sands along those stretches of

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ancient beach is really valuable today.

That’s where Southern Ionics Minerals (SIM) comes into the story.

Because the wet mill removes only about two percent of the sand, the process generally restores the land to its original elevations. Ponds or lakes can be created when the landowner requests them.

From its facilities in Southeast Georgia, Southern Ionics Minerals, LLC (SIM) mines and processes titanium and zirconium mineral sands that were left on those long-ago beaches. Since 2014 SIM has been operating in this part of the state. The company moved its headquarters from Jacksonville, Florida to Offerman, a tiny hamlet of 441 residents in Pierce County. And it operates its Mission Mine in Charlton County.

So why are those old deposits so valuable? Both titanium and zirconium are used in a wide variety of products from aircraft engines to paint to welding rods. But first, these minerals have to be mined and processed. It just so happens that the deposits that were laid down in this part of the state contain some of the largest and most valuable concentrations of these minerals.

When mining comes to mind, most of us would think of the destructive processes most often associated with the industry such as in coal mining. That is not the case with SIM and its mineral mining process. Using modern technology, deposits are pinpointed, the minerals are removed and the land is returned to the same condition as before the mining.

In fact, the original topsoil is even put back in place.

THE MINERALS Both titanium and zircon, the source of zirconium, are often mined together because both are heavy minerals sands often associated with former beaches, though both are found throughout many geographical formations and locations. Only when the concentrations of these sands is sufficient is it economically feasible to mine them.

Titanium--is a heavy mineral that is resistant to corrosion even in sea water and many chemicals. Because of its light weight and tensil strength, it is combined with other metals and used for jet engines, missiles and spacecraft. There are many industrial and commercial uses from the automotive industry to orthopedic implants to cellular telephones. It is also found in many paints.

Zirconium--is a heavy metal that, like titanium, is resistant to corrosion. Its uses are many and many instances the same as titanium such as in jet engines, spacecraft and equipment exposed to high heat. It is also use for orthopedic implants and dental procedures.

HOW DOES IT ALL WORK?

OTHER MINERALS

Although the deposits of titanium, zirconium and other valuable minerals are widespread throughout this area of the state, it isn’t feasible to just set up a mine anywhere and begin to dig for these deposits. SIM uses a drilling rig in areas considered for possible mining. If the samples reveal the desired minerals in the needed grades and in sufficient quantity, the company will seek to lease the mineral rights from the landowner.

Other minerals that are extracted along with the zircon and titanium are also valuable for commercial usages.

Among those mined by SIM are:

The next step is to see what else is on the property. En-

Monazite and Xenotime--Both are sources of rare-earth elements used in the manufacture of magnets, lasers, and other high-tech applications Staurolite--is used as a sand-blasting agent WINTER 2018

41

vironmental considerations such as streams, wetlands, rare plants and animals, and archeological finds are all located and assessed. SIM makes every effort to avoid these sensitive areas. Rare species are avoided or are removed to similar environmental areas. Once it has been established where the actual mining will take place, the mineral rights are leased from the landowner. The Mission Mine in Charlton County is located on land being used to commercially grow pine trees, for instance. After erosion and sedimentation controls have been put into place, the trees are harvested. Then the topsoil is scooped off and set aside in a stockpile so that after the mining is completed, the topsoil can be put back into place.

Excavators are used to remove the sands down to a depth of 20 to 30 feet. These sands are loaded onto trucks and taken to ore stockpiles. The sand is mixed with water and carried to an technologically innovative wet mill where the valuable sands are removed from the quartz sands. This is accomplished through a series of devices that separate the heavier zirconium and titanium minerals from the lighter quartz. The mine pits that are excavated can be as large as 140 acres.

They are mined then filled with soil removed from the next mine area and prepared for the topsoil to be replaced. The entire process is normally completed in about 15 months.

Because the wet mill removes only about two percent of the sand, the process generally restores the land to its original elevations. Ponds or lakes can be created when the landowner requests them.

The topsoil that was stockpiled is returned to the area from which it was removed and is filled with roots and seeds that allow for a quick regeneration of a cover crop. If the landowner wants pine trees planted, SIM plants the trees in the previously mined area.

From the wet mill at the mine in Charlton County, the valuable sands are trucked to the Mineral Separation Plant at Offerman, where once separated, the minerals are ready for shipment to customers across the nation.

SIM INVESTS IN THE COMMUNITY Offerman Mayor Brenda Denison said the company has made an immediate and positive impact locally. “I’m proud to have a company here like SIM that is conscientious about our community, cares about its employees and plans for the future,” she said. “SIM brought good-paying jobs to Offerman, and also made it possible for people to live and work here, making our community stronger,” the mayor said.

Customer Service Manager Kelli Echols loves working for Southern Ionics Minerals and is thrilled to be able to work only a few miles from her home in Patterson, with more time to spend with her family.

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OKEFENOKEE LIVING

This is an employer that is looking ahead and offering people here a future. That means they are here to stay.” – Matt Carter

Executive Director of Pierce County Development Authority Matt Carter and Southern Ionics Minerals' Plant Manager Tim McKeon

Researchers from the University of Georgia capture gopher tortoises on land to be mined by SIM. These tortoises are then moved to a new home during spring roundup to protect the endangered species.

Matt Carter is the executive director of the Pierce County Industrial Development Authority, and he is high on the prospects for Pierce County. And with all the county has going for it, it is no wonder Carter feels this way. “Pierce County is fortunate to host a diverse industrial base from Stewart Distribution [peppermint candy] to Southern Ionics Minerals,” he says.

The $55 million investment by SIM to build its separation mill in Offerman is the largest investment in the county in recent years.

“Everyone worked together to recruit SIM—the cities, the county, the business community. Now, just over two years since the mill opened, the effects are widespread and evident. Drive down Highway 84 at lunchtime and see a new restaurant with a full parking lot,” he says with a smile.

This is an employer that is looking ahead and offering people here a future,” Carter notes. “That means they are here to stay.”

In just a few short years Southern Ionics has established itself as an environmentally-friendly company that is providing a much-needed economic boost for Southeast Georgia. With nearly 150 employees, the company is committed to a longtime presence here. Founder and owner of Southern Ionics Minerals and Southern Ionics Inc. Milton Sunbeck has been recognized by a member of the Satilla Riverkeepers Board of Directors for his commitment to operating his business with unusual sensitivity and care for the environment.

An image of titanium soil processed at Southern Ionics Minerals’ wet mill.

“Not only does SIM contribute to our tax digest, but the company has given new opportunity and new optimism to people who live here by offering good, stable jobs with benefits.

“This fellow I know is middle-age and has never had a paid vacation day. Now he’s getting benefits working for a company that respects its people.” SIM has impressed the community leadership and folks like Carter who points out that the company is already planning how it will build its workforce 20 years from now.

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YO U R G U I D E TO P E O P L E , P L A C E S , A N D B U S I N E SS E S I N T H E R E G I O N

Profiles One of the over-night trips during the Leadership Waycross experience is State Government Day where participants travel to the state capitol and meet with government leaders, economic development agencies, and learn more about how to promote their community. (front row) State Representative Jason Shaw, Joey San Nicolas, Oneida Oliver-Sanders, Viva Steed, Melba Fiveash, Lauralee Tison, Governor Nathan

Deal, Tracey Sapp, Cassie Clemons, Julie Dinkins, Michael-Angelo James, Jimmy Brown, State Senator Tyler Harper. (back row) Jamie Boyett, Stanley Sinkfield, Toni Nelson, Guy Harris, Elena Ryals, Jana Dyke, Terrell Murphy, Angela Murray, Jerry Carver Not Pictured: Teretha Scott

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P

LEADERSHIP

Regional Impact Day at Fort Stewart (back row) Elena Ryals, Joey San Nicholas, Michael-Angelo James, Terrell J. Murphy, Sr., Tracey Sapp, Oneida Oliver Sanders, Stanley Sinkfield, Lauralee Tison, Jamie Boyette, Jana Dyke, Angela Murray, Benji Hersey, Gregory Young

Leadership Waycross Learning To Find Remedies – Not Faults

Leadership Waycross is coordinated by the Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce. Applications for the next class are available beginning in August. The program runs January through November.

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE – PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY LARRY GATTIS

J

ohn F. Kennedy said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” We are always learning, but few of us take time to learn more about our community, it’s success, failures, and opportunities for the sole purpose of trying to make it better. But, that’s just what the recent graduates of the 2017 class of Leadership Waycross have been doing for the past year. Now, they hope to make the community better for everyone.

One important aspect of leading is building relationships and learning about people and understanding different perspectives on the same issue. That is one of the most important aspects of Leadership Waycross and the associated programs in many

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communities across the region.

"During the year we spent together, it was interesting to learn about our community through the eyes of our classmates, and those people involved in teaching us about the different sectors of Waycross and Ware County. Leadership Waycross helped me better understand the community that I was born and raised in, as well as making lasting connections with my classmates who I can now call friends," explained Lauralee Tison, a recent graduate and marketing director for Elite Primary Care.

The program is designed to provide interactive, experiential, hands-on educational programs over a nine-month period in a

Local Government Day with (right) Waycross Mayor John Knox, (far left) City Manager Raphel Maddox, (seated) Jamie Boyett, Angela Murray, Stanley Sinkfield, Michael-Angelo James, Lauralee Tison

series of one-day sessions. Emphasis is placed on panel discussions, site visits, interaction, and building relationships with fellow class members and future leaders.

“Leadership Waycross is unlike any leadership program I have participated in. The friendships I gained from this program made relocating to a new community so much easier. I had immediate friends. I would encourage anyone to participate in the program if the opportunity presents itself, especially new members of the community,” said Jana Dyke, the new executive director of the Waycross-Ware County Development Authority.

One of America’s best innovators and business leaders, Henry Ford, said, “Don’t find fault, find a remedy.” Leadership Waycross is producing future leaders by facilitating an environment in which they can learn about the community, how to work together, and how to solve problems. With that combination, remedies can be found, and future leaders like these can find them.

Tracey Sapp, Jana Dyke, Angela Murray, Elena Ryals, Jimmy Brown, Jr., Teretha Scott during team building exercises at the Bonding Retreat

Jerry Carver and Jamie Boyett at Business and Industry Day

State Government Day with State Representative John Corbett, Jerry Carver

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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 - EMANUEL COUNTY LIVING

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.

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Distribution: Mailed to subscribers (certain magazines); delivered to advertisers and local, state, and federal elected officials; placed in professional and medical offices, civic clubs, retail shops, hotels, hospital waiting rooms, restaurants, chambers of commerce, tourism and visitor centers, and more.

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Connie Riddle 912-424-8772

John Riddle 912-424-3027

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SPORTS

“Jason’s got the perfect coach’s wife. Michelle completely understands the life of a football coach and that makes all the difference in the world. Pierce County is extremely lucky to have them,” says Charlton County High head football coach Rich McWhorter of Michelle Strickland and Jason. Michelle also teaches at PCHS.

JASON STRICKLAND - CHAMPIONSHIP COACH HELPING PCHS REBUILD Story by John DuPont – Photography by Scott Beahan, Shutterly Perfect Portraiture

J

ason Strickland took a leap of faith when he traded purple for blue. After leading the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes to state title berths two consecutive seasons, he was poised for more success there but instead chose to head up a rebuilding program at Pierce County High School. Heading into the final regular season game in 2017, his Bears were vying for the school’s first region title in five years.

tapped as head coach at Lamar County in 2008.

“I love the guy. He’s like my brother,” says Charlton County High head football coach Rich McWhorter of the new top Bear.

“He’s also got the perfect coach’s wife. Michelle completely understands the life of a football coach and that makes all the difference in the world. Pierce County is extremely lucky to have them.”

“The big thing that brought us here was the vision of what the future was going to look like,” says the veteran coach, who arrived in March. “What you’re hoping for with any stop is great administrative support and great community support. I don’t know that we’ve been any place where that has been stronger than right here in Pierce County.”

One might say the Stricklands were a match made in gridiron heaven. Jason, a Clinch County High graduate, worked early in his career as an assistant to Jeff Lee at Jones County High School in middle Georgia. At that same time, Michelle, a Burke County High alumna, was completing her student teaching under Lee’s wife. Thanks to some matchmaking by the Lees, their protégée’s met on a blind date one Friday night after a football game.

Wife Michelle joined him at PCHS in August to start the new school year. Having served most recently as an assistant principal at Ben Hill Primary School in Fitzgerald, she now teaches Introduction to Education at PCHS through Coastal Pines Technical College. Neither of the Stricklands are strangers to the Okefenokee area. Their last stop on the assistant coaching trail was a tour of duty at Charlton County prior to Jason being 50

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“After about six months of begging her to stop stalking me, I finally surrendered and we agreed to get married,” laughs Jason.

Now we’ve been married 17 years as of July.”

Though there are many intangibles that set her husband apart

Jason Strickland, former coach of two Fitzgerald Hurricanes statechampionship teams became Pierce County High School’s Head Football Coach last year.

“The big thing that brought us here was the vision of what the future was going to look like. What you’re hoping for with any stop is great administrative support and great community support. I don’t know that we’ve been any place where that has been stronger than right here in Pierce County.” - Jason Strickland

as a coach, Michelle says one thing that stands out most.

“Jason's deep voice can fill a room,” she says. “He can command a room immediately with his passion. One of his players at Lamar County said he went into the weight room to meet the new coach and at first he couldn't see Jason. He said he was amazed that such a voice came from this 5'7" guy because he imagined Jason would be a big dude.”

Life on the Strickland home front - which includes dogs Levi and Lacy - also includes ample time away from football.

“We’re beach folks. I think Jimmy Buffett and I probably traveled somewhere together long ago and I got left behind,” says Jason. “After football season over Christmas break, we usually vacation with Coach McWhorter’s family in Clearwater Beach.

We’ll go down there and spend six or seven days. Then during the summer Michelle and I usually pick a beach that we’ve never gone to. We do that every summer.”

Life isn’t always a beach in the coaching ranks, but those who best know the new top man at PCHS reiterate his qualifications for the role.

“Kids can tell who is authentic and Jason doesn’t act like anyone else but himself. Kids are drawn to that,” says McWhorter.

“Jason is going to bring a work ethic, discipline, and a demand for character and the kids are going to see a better version of themselves through that. I think everyone appreciates a guy who is not going to compromise. When he is done coaching high school football, Jason will be one of our state’s best coaches ever.”

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MEDICAL

“My father taught me to give back.”

- Dr. William Clark III, M.D.

Dr. William Clark III, M.D. pictured with a painting of his father, Dr. William Clark, Jr., in his office in Waycross that his father built in 1956.

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The “Young Dr. Clark” Recognized for Surgery Milestone Dr. William Clark moved back to Waycross in 1984 to practice with his father, Dr. Bill Clark, whose patients quickly dubbed him the “Young Dr. Clark” – a niche he is still glad to fill – even after 20,000 surgeries.

Story by John F. Riddle - Photography by Scott Beahan – Shutterly Perfect Portraiture

D

r. William Clark III was honored by Memorial Satilla Health in 2017 for performing his 20,000th surgery in the hospital’s operating room. Quite an accomplishment for any physician - but even more so for a physician who never intended to practice medicine in the first place - especially Ophthalmology – and who never had any intention of moving back home to Waycross. Yet, here he is, a celebrated physician with a thriving Ophthalmology practice in his hometown of Waycross.

So, just how did that happen?

Dr. William Clark knew his father had always hoped his son would become a physician. However, he wasn’t sure that would make him happy. “I didn’t know much about what I was going to be when I was a young man, but, I didn’t think I would be a physician. I, for sure, did not want to be an Ophthalmologist. And, I never intended to move back to Waycross,” he explained.

But after missing the deadline for the LSAT, a pre-entrance exam for law school, he took the MCAT, an entrance exam for medical school, and did so well he decided to go to medical school. He had always admired his Dad, Dr. William Clark, Sr., as a physician – he just wasn’t sure he could measure up. “My dad was a great doctor. I lived in the shadow of a giant and did not want to be ‘Dr. Clark’s son, the doctor,” he said. Even so,

he entered medical school at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and become a doctor.

During his clinical rotations, he took various general services in medicine and decided to take an ophthalmology elective. He had a litmus test he applied to each day of every rotation he served in to help ensure he chose the right one for him. “When I walked into each rotation, I asked myself, ‘is this what I want to do every day for the rest of my life?’ By the second day of ophthalmology, I felt excited about it and everything I learned,” he recalled.

Unbeknownst to his Dad, he contacted one of his Dad’s friends who had become a world re-knowned ophthalmologist in Miami, Florida at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. He did an internship with him. After that, he was hooked. So, he decided to practice Ophthalmology. He was accepted at Bascom Palmer for a three-year residency and served a one-year fellowship at Emory in Atlanta After realizing that medicine was actually the profession for him and that Ophthalmology was the field of medicine he enjoyed most, he began establishing himself in Atlanta as a new hot-shot surgeon where he intended to stay and build a successful practice. But, fate had a different plan.

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Memorial Satilla Health recognized Dr. Clark in August 2017 for reaching the milestone of performing his 20,000th surgery since he moved back home to Waycross in 1984 to practice with his dad.

In 1983, his father developed some weakness in his right hand and asked his son to come down to Waycross to perform surgeries with him. By this time, he thought, “why not.” “I knew my father could teach me how to care for patients and not just treat them. I knew I could also learn the business side of managing a practice,” he said. So, he moved home to Waycross.

“You can be the smartest doctor in the world, but if you can’t communicate so that the patient can understand, then it doesn’t matter much,” he explained. “Medicine is complicated enough even when you make it extremely simple. Sometimes I have to deliver bad news, but I always try to deliver it with hope and encouragement.”

They practiced together for twenty years before his father died in 2003. They have been the only father-son team to be elected as presidents of the Medical Association of Georgia, and also be awarded its Distinguished Physician Award.

He learned other things from his Dad beside being a great physician. “My father taught me to give back,” he explained.

He has followed in his father’s footsteps with a long list of honors, appointments, and positions including a seat on the Georgia Chamber’s board of directors, a participant and past board member of Leadership Georgia, past president of the Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce and his current duel roles as chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Okefenokee Swamp Park and chairman of the Waycross-Ware County Development Authority. He has also been recognized in numerous ways from a myriad of professional organizations, including being listed as one of The Best Doctors in the United States since 1996. He currently serves as the chairman of the Southeastern Delegation to the American Medical Association (AMA), leading a group pf physician leaders who represent more than 20 percent of all delegates who determine health policy for the AMA.

There are times from those early days he remembers vividly.

“One day early on, I walked into the exam room and proceeded to give the patient a very thorough eye exam. Finally, the patient asked, ‘Who are you?’. I said, ‘I’m Dr. Clark.’ The patient replied, ‘Oh, you must be the young Dr. Clark. I’m here to see the real Dr. Clark.’ I learned several things from that moment including that I hadn’t even taken time to introduce myself properly,” he said. He realized something else that day – he had become what he thought he had once never intended to be—"Dr. Clark’s son, the doctor”—and he proudly embraced it.

From that day on he knew his place. There was “The Real Dr. Clark” and “The Young Dr. Clark”. He presented his father with matching plaques with those inscriptions on Father’s Day that year, one for each of their office doors. His still hangs on his office door. “I became the young Dr. Clark instead of Dr. Clark’s son, the doctor. That was a niche I was glad to fill,” he said.

He learned a lot observing his father including an increased ability to communicate with patients. “I probably speak five different variations of the ‘eye surgery language,’” he jokes.

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So, that’s how Dr. William Clark became a physician, chose the field of Ophthalmology and decided to move home to Waycross - where he still practices in the same office his father built in 1956. Currently, he is the only full-time Ophthalmologist in Waycross and Ware County.

Of all the titles he has had, one that stuck—at least in some circles—and one he enjoys most, is that of “The Young Dr. Clark”… a niche he is still glad to fill.

918 South First Street Jesup, GA 31545 Across from Wayne Memorial Hospital

912-385-2490 BOC Accredited

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. (1 John 4:7)

All of your medical equipment needs: Oxygen • CPAP/BIPAP • Power Chairs Life Chairs • Scooters

Accepts: Medicare Medicaid • Humana Tri-Care • Other Private Insurance Bi-lingual Staff Locally Owned & Operated WINTER 2018

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LO DG I N G

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here are some corners of Georgia so pretty and scenic that it’s easy to succumb to the dynamic forces of nature, and Blueberry Plantation Inn and Country Club in Alma is one of those places.

Long considered the heart and soul of hospitality in Alma and Bacon County, the architecture of the inn is inviting with its wide, sweeping verandah, manicured grounds, and a tapestry of muted colors – subtle greens blended with whites and blacks – that seamlessly meld into its natural surroundings that include cathedrals of pine forests. Blueberry Plantation, within shouting distance of hundreds if not thousands of acres of fragrant blueberry fields, has all the amenities of a large-scale resort – warm and inviting accommodations, a renowned restaurant and cozy bar, an 18-hole golf course, and event planning – but best of all, it en-

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joys a sense of isolation with its small-town location.

Here you’ll find distinct touches that make it a stand-out destination in South Georgia, with its oversized fireplaces, ornate hardwood flooring, and elegant dormer windows that allow plenty of sunlight to fill its nooks and crannies. When you’re ready to book a getaway, play a day on the links, savor a superb meal, hold that special event, or just enjoy a glass of iced tea on the verandah, the warm and friendly staff of Blueberry Inn is set to welcome you with open arms.

THE INN

You’ll have no shortage of space in the large and well-appointed lodgings that include selections of two

THE

Heart Soul AND

OF ALMA

STORY BY MARY ANN ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANNA DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY

suites, two junior suites, or almost two dozen standard guestrooms. Butter-soft linens in flattering colors and textures combine for understated luxury and comfort in every room.

A perfect night’s sleep should come easily in this place where quietness reigns and where the only sounds you hear may be the melodic serenade of whippoorwills, bobwhite quail, or mourning doves, all feathered residents of the soaring pine forests that surround the inn. Enjoy travel with your four-legged friends? The inn is pet-friendly for your convenience. With extras including tiled bathrooms, complimentary Internet services, and a continental breakfast, you’ll want to stay here again and again.

THE RESTAURANT

Whether you want just a simple night out or a celebratory

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meal for that milestone anniversary, birthday, or other important life event, look no further than Blueberry Plantation. Alma and Bacon County are the heart of blueberry country in Georgia, and you’ll love the decidedly blueberry-focused and myriad Southern specialties that the restaurant is known for, including delectable cuisine such as fried pickles, an utterly unique salad of blueberry and seasoned salmon, the Plantation Club or Grilled Mac and Cheese sandwich offerings, or the wide range of burgers and sumptuous chicken, seafood, pasta, or beef selections that provide something for every palate. Enjoy a selection of wine or iced tea with your meal, but be sure to end your dining experience with the inn’s signature blueberry margarita or homemade blueberry cobbler.

EVENTS

THE GOLF COURSE

Blueberry Plantation Inn and Country Club is located at 174 Plantation Drive in the verdant Bacon County countryside near Alma.

Visit www.blueberryplantation.com, or call (912) 632-3000.

Since it first opened in 1993, the 18-hole golf course became the must-play for South Georgia’s golfers. When refurbishing began more than a dozen years ago by new owner Ted Murray, it was designed to resemble Augusta National in many ways, down to the similar angular sand in the bunkers. The challenging course, carved from the fertile soils of Bacon County, measures 6,720 yards from the longest tees. The course is rolling and landscaped amid the natural beauty of Bacon County, with its towering pines and hardwoods offering vivid color in every season, and it’s not unusual to see deer, raccoons, and ‘possums share the links with duffers. Sapphire blue lakes and grass of emerald green only add to its remarkable beauty and serenity.

With paved cart paths, small yet exciting greens that can test the skill of even experienced golfers, and a full-service clubhouse, it is a dream course for those who enjoy the game.

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Make your next event unforgettable. Whether it’s a wedding or bridal shower, family reunion, class reunion, holiday party, business meeting, or a simple get-together of friends, Blueberry Plantation has everything you need to make your function fabulous and fun. From necessities like high speed Internet for those corporate get-togethers to a charming gazebo for a bride and groom to say their “I do’s,” and then to specialized and custom catering with the freshest of ingredients, a full range of event planning is available.

THE DETAILS

CUSTOMER CARE CENTER

Proudly offering big city bells and whistles with an abundance of

ITM

TEXT ALERTS

SMALL TOWN CHARM. MOBILE DEPOSITS

COMPETITIVE LOAN RATES MAIN OFFICE 501 Tebeau St. (912)283–0001

ITM LOCATION CUSTOMER CARE CENTER 1731 Knight Ave. (912)584–6101 WaycrossBankAndTrust.com

#518624

McKinney Medical Center McKinney Cares 4 Every BODY!

McKinney Medical Center, Inc. was founded in 1995 with the vision of creating a medical practice that treats every patient with dignity and first-rate care. The nurses and office staff at MMC are highly-trained and exceptionally friendly. We understand that for many, visiting a doctor can be a stressful experience. Our comfortable surroundings and compassionate medical professionals will ease your fears.

McKinney Medical Center provides preventive healthcare for adults, adolescents, children, and infants and offers family medicine, adult medicine, pediatrics, women's health, dental care, immunizations, health checks, and sports physicals. With offices in Waycross, Folkston, Nahunta, Kingsland, and Alma, MMC stands ready to meet the healthcare needs of the uninsured, under-insured, and insured alike.

Visit us online at www.mckinneymedicalcenter.com to learn more about our services and locations.

Meet Our Providers

Dr. Earl Martin Family Medicine

Dr. Mary Lott Pediatrician

Dr. Krupa Maramreddy Pediatrician

Neal Griffis Clinical Supervisor

Courtney Herndon Family Nurse Practitioner

Charles W. Klein Physician Assistant

Hannah Roberts Physician Assistant

Dr. Allen Vergen Dentist

Dr. Elizabeth Viruet Dentist

Dr. Lathonia Bennett Dentist

Heather Klein Nurse Practitioner

Photo Not Available: Dr. Dan Lott, OB/GYN; Dr. Joshua McCarthy, Family Medicine

MAIN CAMPUS 218 Quarterman St Waycross, GA 31501 912.287.9140 — Tel 912.287.1059 — Fax WINTER 2018

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B U S I N E SS

Gregory Calley Richard’s Meats & Seafood

Gregory Calley, owner of Richard’s Meats & Seafood in Homerville

Family recipes, catering and in-house specialties await at Richard’s in Homerville STORY BY DERBY WATERS

R

ichard’s Meats & Seafood is the name that Gregory Calley’s father began with some 40 years ago, but the family-owned business in Homerville has become known for more than premier meats and seafood.

The home of its widely known Richard’s BBQ Sauce, the business has developed a following for its fresh, in-house-made hog’s head cheese. Add to that other in-house specialties such as pimento cheese, Brunswick stew, broccoli salad and baked potato topping. And that famous BBQ sauce? Richard’s is made in South Georgia style—nice and spicy.

“It’s made with a secret recipe passed down through the family for more than four decades, and it can be bought in a regular mustard or a hot blend,” Gregory said. It’s so good it was named a Finalist in the 2014 Flavors of Georgia competition.

get-together, Richards’s catering service is ready to serve. In fact, Richard’s will even prepare a single meal.

As the name suggests, Richard’s can provide fresh seafood, and with its specialty old-time butcher shop, customers can have their meats custom cut. All the meats are fresh, and only the finest selections of pork or beef are good enough for Richard’s customers—like their special Angus, choice ribeye steaks.

Richard’s is conveniently located at 14 W. Plant Ave. in Homerville. Or give them a call for orders for their famous sauces or their catering service at 912-487-5822.

The reputation of good food has a way of spreading, and maybe that is why once again this year, as for the past 20 years, Richard’s is the caterer for the Okefenokee Occasion. With crowds as large as from 600 to 800 hungry folks, the Occasion is just that—and Richard’s catering service can handle it right on up to barbequing a whole hog.

And for smaller occasions—anything from weddings to reunions to a special-made meal for a neighborhood or family 60

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Richard’s catering service can include barbeque a whole hog in addition to other full-service catering services.

John Spence, MD

Specialized care for diabetic wounds, pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, venous & arterial ulcers, trauma wounds, vasculitis, and other complex or nonhealing wounds. Hypebaric Oxygen Therapy available.

No Referral Necessary

912-277-2077 • www.meadowsregional.org 101 Harris Industrial Blvd., Suite E, Vidalia Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Local, skilled craftsmen making monuments for your family for

over 100 years.

Keith Hawthorne

Your premier Monument Specialist serving South Georgia & North Florida 912-283-8454 Valdosta, Douglas, Jesup, Tifton & Waycross WINTER 2018

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E D U C AT I O N

Dr. Glenn Deibert, President of Coastal Pines Technical College accepts the 2017 College of the Year Award from Matt Arthur, Deputy Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG); Dr. Glenn Deibert; Gretchen Corbin, Commissioner of TCSG; and Joe Yarbrough, TCSG State Board Chair.

COASTAL PINES NAMED TECHNICAL COLLEGE OF THE YEAR

S

Top enrollment growth and highest graduation rate cited as success factors

outh Georgia communities may take pride in knowing that the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) has selected Coastal Pines Technical College as this year’s recipient of the Sonny Perdue Award for the TCSG Technical College of the Year. Each December, the TCSG board chooses the award winner from among the system’s 22 technical colleges. Colleges are evaluated against various performance criteria in the areas of technical education, adult education, economic development, resource development and administration.

“Coastal Pines’ consistent focus on excellence reflects its commitment to serving its students and its community,” said Gretchen Corbin, a TCSG commissioner. “The college not only continues to enroll a growing number of new students,

but also has instituted effective measures to support their success, providing students with greater career opportunities and the college’s region with a pipeline to a talented and ready workforce.”

Thirteen counties in Georgia are served by Coastal Pines and the faculty and staff within each college have encouraged and created success and opportunities for their students. “I’m extremely proud to accept this award on behalf of the board, faculty, staff and students of Coastal Pines Technical College, as well as the communities we serve,” said President Glenn Deibert. “This award is a testament to their dedication to higher education and a symbol of the college’s contributions to growth opportunities for our students and our companies.”

HIGHLIGHTS FROM COASTAL PINES TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S 2017 ACADEMIC YEAR INCLUDE: - The highest graduation rate (87 percent) in Georgia’s public technical college system. Coastal Pines graduated 1,278 students in 2017 and has exceeded its Complete College Georgia degree production goals for nine consecutive years.

- The highest enrollment growth in the Georgia technical college system, increasing student Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) by 14 percent over 2016.

- The largest increase in high school dual enrollment system-wide. Coastal Pines had 1,806 high school students enrolled in its credit courses during 2017, representing seven percent of all public high school students in the college’s service delivery area.

- The most improvement in operational efficiency. Coastal Pines reduced its cost-per-FTE by 11.3 percent in 2017, more than any other college in Georgia’s technical college system.

- Superb licensure pass rates, with 95 percent of graduates passing their licensure exams.

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' Round

THE REGION

WHERE TO DINE, SHOP, PL AY & STAY IN THE REGION

COMPILED BY SHAN WALKER AND CANDICE MCKINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

N

ot far from the beaten path is the Historic Strand Theater in Downtown Jesup. The Strand is a dinner cinema with made-toorder menu items and first-rate service delivered right to your seat. Adult beverages are also available. Every seat in The Strand’s 1920s Art Deco-style three-screen theater has an electric leather

recliner with a personal table and seven-foot spacing between aisles.

For more information and to reserve seats for the latest showings visit their website at jesupmovies. com or look for them on facebook: Historic Strand Cinema.

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O 'ROUND THE REGION

Photography by Scott Beahan, Shutterly Perfect Portraiture

Merle Norman & Tuscan Sky Salon

M

erle Norman & Tuscan Sky Salon in Waycross offers a full-service salon, make-up services, skin care products, waxing, eye-lash extensions, and manicures and pedicures. Their Homerville location also offers a salon, cosmetics and skin care.

Both stores have boutiques offering the latest fashions, jewelry, and accessories. Their licensed cosmetologists can also help you and your wedding party with hair and make-up when you’re preparing for that special day.

Visit them at 2540 Memorial Drive in Waycross or at 17 E. Plant Avenue in Homerville.

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We’ve “goat” this!

Jason and Kara Jarrard and their four sons are living life to the fullest on a small dairy goat farm in Alma, Georgia. Their farm is called 5J since each parent and all three boy names begin with a “J” and they work the farm as a team. Jason Jarrard usually handles all the big jobs like taking care of the pastures and barns, while the three teenage boys and Kara handle the everyday feeding and such. Each spring season, it is a group effort to milk all of their dairy goats and package their products.

The Goat Milk Soap is made with all natural ingredients like raw Goat milk, Olive oil, Coconut oil, Palm oil, Sunflower oil, Castor oil, Shea Butter, and Sweet Almond oil. The goat milk in our soap is FRESH goat milk, not powdered milk, and it is not diluted with water. So, you get the full benefit of raw, fresh goat milk that is packed full of essential nutrients and vitamins like vitamin D, C, B1, B6, B12, and E. It also contains alpha-hydroxy acids which help remove dead skin cells.

For the Jarrard family, something that started out as a necessity for them has become a delight to many shoppers in the Okefenokee region and beyond. They now create fabulous goat milk soaps and lotions that are all-natural and made with fresh goat milk. Initially these served as a natural alternative to chemical-laden, store bought soaps that Kara became concerned with.

Another reason was the enormous supply of goat milk that needed to be used up somehow!

Things are kept as natural as possible all around the farm where the Jarrads have sold purebred Nubians goats that are fully registered with the ADGA. These fortunate goats only eat whole oats, alfalfa pellets, black oil sunflower seeds, perennial peanut hay and Bermuda grass hay.

For more information visit: 5jfarm.weebly.com or Facebook: 5J WINTER 2018

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Main Street Blackshear Presents:

Friday, May 4, 2018

Blackshear City Park • Downtown Blackshear • 8:00 - 10:00 pm Bring a lawn chair & picnic basket • No tents or pets will be allowed in the park during the event • Smoking and vaping in designated areas only

In their 10th year together, DEPARTURE is the most respected Journey tribute band in the nation.

DEPARTURE replicates the look, sound and feel of the original 80’s rock super group. All five DEPARTURE band members are from the original line-up and have been together from the very beginning. These veteran musicians love what they do and have developed an

on-stage chemistry and pride themselves on giving their audience an incredible high-energy, qualitative stage show from start to finish. DEPARTURE lead vocalist, Brian Williams, has an amazing singing voice flawlessly matching Steve Perry’s vocal range and on-stage movements, exactly. For more information visit Main Street Blackshear on Facebook.

Presented by Main Street Blackshear and these Proud Sponsors:

Chad Nimmer, State Rep • Friendly Express Georgia Physicians South • Hart Funeral Home • Hodges Plumbing Mike Burch Ford • Pierce County Graphics • Pierce Timber Prime South Bank • Shane Watson - Country Financial Compass Realty • Farmers & Builders • Heritage Bank Bennett, Bennett, & Johnson Insurance • Crossway Realty • Dan Bennett, Attny • Huddle House Larry Giant Subs • Satilla Foot & Ankle • Satilla REMC • Howard Meadows State Farm Larry’s Harris & Company • Gibson-McDonald • The Speech Clinic • Okefenokee Living Magazine

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Southern Home Vintage Market: Douglas - March 2 & 3 – 9:00 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Mark those calendars for a very special shopping experience in Downtown Douglas! Residents and visitors alike adore the Southern Home Vintage Market that occurs twice a year in the community.

Shoppers will find vintage and antique items like vintage Pyrex, old pottery bowls, vintage kitchenware and furniture, old doors and repurposed wood!

For two days, there will be plenty of food vendors, baked goods, vintage jewelry, coins, collector pocket knives and primitive antiques. More than 70 vintage vendors from the Southeast will be present.

Admission prices may vary depending upon time of market. The Southern Home Vintage Market will be located at 200 N. Madison Ave. at the Central Square Complex in Douglas. For more information, find them on Facebook at Southern Home Vintage Market.

The Blueberry Barn - All Things Blueberry Blueberries are what Alma, Georgia is famous for and a wonderful representation of that is a delightful little shop called The Blueberry Barn. While Ann Wildes and her husband were working their jobs and their 40-acre blueberry farm, God was growing a desire in Ann’s heart to begin her own business upon her retirement as a Business Education teacher. She devoted 30 years to middle and high school students through UGA Cooperative Extension and 4H programs. The dream in her heart and her experiences with blueberry farming and agricultural programs led her to desire a store that would be “all things blueberry.”

If traveling down US Highway 1 through Alma, stop by and visit the staff known for their genuine Southern hospitality and famous blueberry ice cream. Visit during the blueberry season from May until July and experience a Farmers Market with fresh Georgia blueberries straight from the Wilde’s farm. Find more details about The Blueberry Barn online at TheBlueBerryBarn.com and on Facebook.

Beach Village Sidewalk Sales Jekyll Island Beach Village – March 16-18 In this new gathering space between the Jekyll Island Convention Center and The Westin, numerous family-friendly events take place throughout the year. Take advantage of special offers from Beach Village merchants throughout the year.

For More Information: visit Facebook. com/Jekyll Island WINTER 2018

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O 'ROUND THE REGION

Photography by Conner Selph Photography

OKEFENOKEE GETS ACTIVE Whether it’s outdoor hikes, festivals, tours, shows, or marathons, the Okefenokee region will afford many opportunities to get active this Winter and Spring. There’s a little bit of every type of activity for the whole family, regardless of age. Time to get active!

Okefenokee Color Run March 31 – Waycross – 8:00 a.m.

The Okefenokee Heritage Center will host its annual Color Run to help support Kids Art Camp beginning with a 5k run at 8 a.m. and 1-mile run/walk at 9 a.m. To register, email okeheritage@gmail.com. For more information or to become a sponsorship partner, call (912) 285-4260.

Heart to Heart Run & Walk February 17 - Douglas – 8:00 a.m.

Course begins and ends in front of Coffee Regional Medical Center. Scenic route with slightly rolling hills. $150 Grand Prize to Overall Male and Female Winners of both 10k and 5k events. Medals for all 10k participants. 5k Medals awarded in 5-year age divisions male and female based on Georgia Grand Prix. Tons of giveaways for all registered participants (must be present to win). Races include: 10k (run only), 5k, 3-mile walk, and 1-mile Fun Run (kids ages 5-10 only) starts at 7:30 a.m. For more information: correeregional.org.

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Twilight Easter Egg Hunt March 31 – Laura S. Walker State Park - 7:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Bring your Easter baskets, and, oh, yeah, flashlights! It’s an Easter Egg hunt in the dark at Laura S. Walker State Park!

There will be a hunt for smaller kids that are ages 0-5 that will start at 7:30 p.m., and meet at the park interpretive center.

There will be a second hunt for children that are ages 6-12 that will start at 8:30 p.m., and meet at the park visitor center.

This program is lovingly sponsored by the Friends of Laura S. Walker State Park organization.

Gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp Home of the Folkston Funnel where 50 - 60 trains pass daily!

Shop Play Stay Golf Shops Dining Canoeing Historical Sites Unique Lodging mo And more!

www.folkston.com | Visitor’s Center: 912-496-2536 | 3795 Main St. • Folkston, GA 31537

Summer in the City May 4 – 5 – Blackshear This Summer festival will begin on Friday night with one of the best Journey Tribute Bands in the country, “Departure.”

Saturday’s family fun day will be community centric and full of excitement. All activities take place in Blackshear City Park located in Downtown Blackshear. For more information visit their website: visitblackshear.com.

Shakespeare in the Park Festival April 19-22 – Waycross Join friends and family at the Okefenokee Heritage Center in April for the 1st Annual Shakespeare in the Park Festival. Be sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair and prepare to be amazed at the talent of the local troop of actors of Purlie Productions. There will be refreshments on-site, served by local food trucks.

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O 'ROUND THE REGION

OKEFENOKEE GETS FESTIVE

Swampfest April 6 & 7 – Downtown Waycross It’s time for the 15th annual Swampfest celebration! With the host of Waycross Main Street, join the crowds for the amazing food, arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, and much more. Activities will include a 300-ft. zip line, a rock wall, a bungee jump and a train ride, to name just a few. There are too many activities to list that will keep both kids and adults happy during this two-day festival. For more information, visit Swampfest.us.!

Blessing of the Fleet Festival - April 13-15 - Darien Be sure to show up to Darien’s Waterfront Park on 105 Fort King George Drive for the annual three-day Blessing of the Fleet Festival that is full of activities, including a classic car show and a juried art show that draws talent from across the Southeast.

All of the fun begins on Friday afternoon at 5 p.m. There will be arts and crafts booths, live entertainment and more. On Saturday at 6 p.m., the fun starts again with Art in the Park, the YMCA 5K River Run, the Darien Lion's Club Street Parade, and the annual Classic Car Show.

There will be live entertainment Saturday night as well on the Waterfront Stage. Sunday’s fun includes more Art in the Park and the music starts at 11 a.m. The shrimp parade begins at 2 p.m. and the infamous blessing for the coming year of fishing as each boat approaches the Darien Bridge will soon follow. Visit BlessingoftheFleet.com for additional information.

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Georgia Blueberry Festival June 1 & 2 – Alma The Georgia Blueberry Festival will begin June 1 and will feature parades, beauty contests, senior beauty contests, cooking contests, local entertainment, bands, rides and games for the children, and vendors from throughout the area and neighboring states. In addition, the festival incorporates recognition of Veterans and those who have served their country as an integral part of The Blueberry Festival. Also, for the last few years, the festival has included Civil War re-enactors who set up camps and enact a dame scene to give festival goers a glimpse of what life was like in the 1860’s. The festival is located in Goldwasser Park in Alma near West 12th Street. For more information visit: georgiablueberryfestival.org.

Waycross

& the Okefenokee Swamp

Come experience the “Land of the Trembling Earth” and explore the swamp lands of the Okefenokee.

Okefenokee Swamp Park  Laura Walker State Park  Southern Forest World  Historic Walking Tours 

Okefenokee Heritage Center  The Lakes at Laura Walker Golf  Obediah’s Okefenok  Trembling Earth Rec. Complex 

You may need to stay a while For more info visit

www.waycrosstourism.com or call: 912.287.2969 WINTER 2018

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Arts

& CULTURE

Sharing a Fairytale T

STORY AND ART BY MASTER PHOTOGRAPHER TRACY BOSWORTH PAGE

here is a special relationship between siblings that begs to be captured. Those moments when they are quietly together, engaged with each other. The moments that will make you forget the bickering. Those are the moments when they seem to share their own language or just glances that knowingly understand each other. The threads that will bind them throughout their entire lives and become the fabric of their lifelong relationship.

These two special girls, Skylar and Ariel Jones from Atlanta, children of Tara and Waylon Jones, are just far enough in age that the eldest enjoys teaching the youngest. We were able to capture it for this moment frozen in time by just waiting for it to happen.

The title of this piece is “Sharing A Fairytale� and it was accepted into the General Collection of the PPA International Print Competition, and earned a Seal of Approval from the Southeastern Professional Photographers Association.

Tracy Bosworth Page is the portraitist behind Katherine Page Portraits. Tracy is a Master Photographer, a Craftsmen Photographer and is a Certified Professional Photographer. She specializes in fine art and portraits.

She is also an Ambassador for Zeiss Camera Lenses. She and her family live in Douglas, GA and she splits her time between her Douglas studio and Atlanta studio. For more information, visit tracybosworthpage.com.

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Arts

& CULTURE

Jekyll Island Arts Festival Each March the smell of oil paints and potter's dust is in the air and Jekyll Island's Historic District is abuzz with creative energies. The dates of our 2018 Festival on the grounds of Goodyear Cottage will be March 9, 10 & 11. This free annual event is a three-day extravaganza highlighting the works of many of the association's over 400 members coming from all over North America. It is also a shopper’s delight for all art lovers. Nearly forty-five years ago, the annual Arts Festival took flight as a way for the Jekyll Island Arts Association's members to submit their art for judging and present an exhibit to the public. This festival has evolved into an unequaled event consisting of a committee of 35 people, nearly three hundred volunteers and attracting over 3,000 visitors yearly.

Painting by local artist Rachel Settle

IF YOU GO:

Where: Goodyear Cottage Riverview Drive on Jekyll Island Dates: March 9, 10 & 11 For More Information: visit jekyllartsassociation.org/ annualfestival.html

Waycross Community Theatre Waycross Area Community Theatre is back at it again at the Historic Ritz Theatre in Waycross. Plan ahead to buy tickets for these two performances in the Spring: THE ADDAMS FAMILY – “A creepy and kooky musical comedy that is sure to make you smile!”

March 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 2018 at 8:00 p.m. and March 4 & 11, 2018, at 2:30 p.m.

THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER – “A beloved classic filled with uproarious adventures and shenanigans!”

May 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 2018, at 8:00 p.m. and May 6, 2018, at 2:30 p.m.

Albany Symphony Presents: Paul Peach Masterworks Albany Georgia has truly talented musicians and composers that will be featured in a night of masterpiece this February. Attend the Albany Symphony Concert: Paul Peach Masterworks on February 17 7:30 p.m.

– 9:30 p.m. It will be the third concert of the season and is guaranteed to impress. The concert will be at the Albany Municipal Auditorium at 200 N. Jackson St., in Albany.

Get ready for Hannah White, an inspiring 17-year-old violin virtuoso and T.J. Cole, a Georgia native and composer. General Admission tickets are $25 and Reserved Seats are $35 Student/Child $10.

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IF YOU GO:

Where: Albany Municipal Auditorium Date: February 17 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets: General admission: $25 / Reserved: $35 / Children: $10

‘Celtic Woman’ Performing in Jacksonville

IF YOU GO:

Who knew that in Dublin, Ireland many years ago, there was an idea to create a musical show showcasing exceptional talent from Irish female musicians in the country? That describes the beginnings of Celtic Woman, a world-renowned group that many across the world have fallen in love with.

Celtic Woman will be performing March 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Jacksonville Florida’s Times Unions Center for the Performing Arts. The concert is entitled, “Celtic Woman, Homecoming” and ticket prices vary. Call 904-633-6110 for more information.

29th Annual Savannah Music Festival Join the community of Savannah Georgia along the Coast for the 29th Annual Savannah Music Festival March 29 though April 14 at the Trustees’ Garden. The Savannah Music Festival is known for presenting world-class celebrations of the musical arts by creating timeless and adventurous productions that stimulate arts education, foster economic growth and unite artists and audiences in Savannah.

This Spring festival is Georgia’s largest musical arts event, featuring more than 100 productions, bringing more than 500 of the world’s finest musical artists to Savannah annually. The all-day festival finale will showcase continuous live music on three stages with vendors of food and refreshments the whole time.

Where: Times Union Center for the Performing Arts in Jacksonville, FL Date: March 13 @ 7:30 p.m.

For More Information: call (904) 633-6110

Wiregrass Children’s Art Show The Wiregrass Children's Art Show will once again share creative activities, demonstrations, and introduce the Wiregrass Artists Guild Artist of the Year in March 2018. Come enjoy this free event and support Coffee County's Student Art Show for grades K-12. Show up at the Central Square Complex at the Coffee County Parks & Recreation Department at 200 Madison Ave S, Douglas, Georgia. Call 912- 3837332 for more information.

The Charlestones Come to Eagle Station Come enjoy an evening with The Charlestones in concert at Eagle Station in Patterson March 17 at 7 p.m. The Charlestones are an a cappella quartet including, Todd Monsell (bass), Brink Norton (tenor), William Purcell (lead), and Stephen Spaulding (baritone). They have quickly made a name for themselves with their trademark flawless intonation, rocksteady camaraderie, and wide variety of vocal styles. Tickets for the event are $30 individually or $250 for a table. For more information, visit http://thecityofpatterson.com/eagle-station/.

IF YOU GO: Where: Eagle Station in Patterson Date: March 17 @ 7 p.m.

Tickets: Individually: $30 / Table: $250 For More Information: thecityofpatterson.com/eagle-station WINTER 2018

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Arts

“Resting” Ernie Hendrix’s painting “Resting” won First Place at the Artist Guild of Northwest Georgia show.

& CULTURE

Uncovering Hidden Talent STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY

E

rnie Hendrix, 74, has been interested in art all her life, but it had to take a back seat to living day-to-day life and marriage responsibilities. She worked at a large downtown Atlanta law firm and once she retired, she decided it was time to try something different.

She and a friend had both wanted to learn how to paint and thought learning together would be twice the fun so they scheduled play dates with paint. The very first object that Ernie painted was a “rusty ol’ 76

car door,” she laughed. “I really love to paint rust. Painting just clicked for me.”

First medium was acrylic, thinned down to the fluidity of watercolor paints. She thought if she was this close to watercolor, why not take the small step and invest in some watercolors. She transitioned into watercolors preferring still life paintings of decorative antique items and patinaed surfaces.

“Tailfin,” Ernie’s most recent painting, is the tailfin of a ’58 Plymouth Fury, and won First Place in the “Professional Di-

OKEFENOKEE LIVING

Artist Ernie Hendrix began winning awards for her paintings only a short time after she took up the brush for the first time.

She is a member of the Douglas County Art Guild and the Greater Atlanta Polymer Clay Guild. Her work can be found m.imagekind.com/art/stunning/ernie-hendrix/artwork-on/ fine-art-prints.

“Tailfin” won First Place in the Professional Division at the Georgia National Fair.

“Headlight on Blue Car” won Honorable Mentions at both NOVAS 2015 and Art in the Armory.

vision” at the Georgia National Fair. “I don’t consider myself a ‘professional,’” she said, “so that was very encouraging to me.” In addition, she won First Place at the Artist Guild of Northwest Georgia show. Other awards include: First Place in the Amateur Division - Georgia National Fair; Sponsor's Award at the Artist Guild of Northwest Georgia show; an Honorable Mention at NOVAS 2015; and an Honorable Mention at Art in the Armory.

“For me, it isn’t so much the awards that I like as the affirmation that I feel when someone else appreciates what I’m doing,” she said. “Sometimes I feel like I’m just finding my way in the dark, so other people’s appreciation for my work keeps me moving.”

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Arts

& CULTURE

Nature’s Stillness STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT BEAHAN OF SHUTTERLY PERFECT PORTRAITURE

I

n 1985, Scott Beahan moved to Jacksonville, Florida from the Midwest and found his passion for creating images. Now in Blackshear with his wife, Robbie, Scott has opened a studio and gallery in the downtown area. Although his primary discipline is portraiture he has begun to find a place in the fine art arena. The record snowfall in January 2018 provided Scott and Robbie with the opportunity to go for a drive and enjoy the snow, while also allowing Scott to capture these beautiful photos. The snowfall was ranked sixth on the all-time record list and the most snow South Georgia had seen in nearly 30 years, since December, 1989.

He takes great personal pleasure in landscape photography. When creating an image of God’s creation he is ever mindful of his place before the creator of the universe, and it moves him to praise. He has photographed slices of the earth such as Colorado's Garden of the Gods, The Grand Tetons, Yellowstone National Park, Mount Rushmore, lighthouses in the northeast USA, grist mills throughout the Eastern united states, Florida’s beaches and, closer to home, Georgia’s Okefenokee swamp. His favorite image is the next one he creates.

Scott is the president of the Okefenokee Heritage Center Photography Guild in Waycross and welcomes visitors to his studio. His life’s verse is 2nd Cor 4:5—“For we preach not ourselves but Christ Jesus the Lord and ourselves your servant for Jesus sake.” He is very appreciative of his blessings in life and believes you can’t out give God. Scott’s artwork, including animal subjects and antiques, is displayed in his studio Shutterly Perfect, located at 113 SW Central Avenue in Blackshear, and at The Garden Café, just three doors down.

For more information about Scott’s work, call (912) 288-6939.

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Pictures Far Left: "Winter Farm Fog” Top Right: “Winter Sunset” Bottom Left: Scott Beahan Bottom Right: “Darsey Family Farm in Winter”

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T

Travel

Photo by Cassie Wright Photography

“I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.”

– Mary Anne Radmacher

STORY BY CANDICE MCKINLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY WAYNE MORGAN

E

ven on this side of the world, nature can leave one breathless. Photographer Wayne Morgan captured the majesty that is the Canadian mountains with this image. Nestled in a spectacular valley in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Moraine Lake provides the ultimate romantic getaway for those seeking a luxurious escape for a honeymoon, anniversary, hiking experience, or a relaxing vacation. The lake reflects the dramatic beauty of Banff National Park and from there travelers can explore all that nature has to offer or take short drives to spectacular sites like Lake Louise and the picturesque town of Banff.

The glacially fed lake is situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, outside the village of Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada.

Apart from this international photo, Morgan, a Brantley County artist, is renowned for his photographs of local scenes. His stunning stills of local river and swamp life capture the spirit of the Satilla and the Okefenokee. Some of Wayne’s patrons include former President Jimmy Carter and former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue, to name but a few. More of Wayne’s photography can be found on his website waynemorganartistry.com.

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T

T R AV E L T H E O K E F E N O K E E

Fascinating American History Sites Within And Around The Okefenokee STORY BY SHAN WALKER

H

ow about taking a virtual road trip to visit the exciting historical places near the Okefenokee that most folks have probably never heard of.

The spectacular heritage and history of this region in South Georgia abound with historic homes, museums, war forts, and exhibits. There's also something to be said about the diverse outdoor landscape bursting with battlefields, monuments, hiking trails, and cemeteries

that would thrill history buffs and thrill seekers.

Nicholls

fight against the Indians during the Creek Wars.

The virtual tour starts in the center of the Okefenokee region in Nicholls, Georgia. As a leader in agricultural and livestock history, this wiregrass city has strong ties to its natural surroundings and cultural celebrations.

GENERAL COFFEE STATE PARK – If one wants to experience one of the best kept outdoor secrets in the state of Georgia, then they'll want to visit General Coffee State Park. This 1,511-acre Georgia State Park is located five miles east of Douglas and named after General John E. Coffee. John was a General of the Georgia state militia that supervised construction of "Coffee Road," enabling transportation of weapons to aid in the 82

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Mystery and excitement typically don't come to mind for most people when they think of history. These historical cities, however, have many fascinating stories to uncover that are waiting to be discovered.

Ready?

General Coffee State Park showcases the pioneer heritage of the county with a small animal farm of goats, sheep, chickens, pigs, and donkeys alongside a 4-acre lake. Heritage Farm also boasts a corn crib, tobacco barn, antique tools, blacksmith shed, and cane mill.

Stroll down the nature trails to discover the boardwalk along the tea-colored cypress swamp. Overnight lodging includes pioneer camping and rustic cabins. Meeks Cabin is an 1830 log structure and is one of the oldest buildings in South Georgia. The Burham Cottage is a restored farmhouse with claw-tooth tubs, oversized wood doors, stone fireplace, and the smell of aged-wood throughout in its walls, ceilings, and floors.

Douglas

Knowledge of a special place is realized when rolling into the cozy streets of Douglas Georgia. This fantastic city treasures heritage and history so much that there are two National Register Districts: the downtown historic district and Gaskin Avenue, a historic residential district. Both areas showcase impressive turn-of-the-century architecture throughout.

ASHLEY-SLATER HOUSEMake sure that the first stop in Douglas is the Ashley-Slater House. This 1912 Italianate-style mansion was a refined phase of 1800s history its Classical architecture. It currently holds the offices of Douglas Visitor's Center, public information services, and main street information. Ask them for a tour of the mansion!

63rd AAF Flying Training Detachment. Because World War II was in full swing, there was a high demand for American pilots (or flyboys as they were nicknamed). The 63rd Army Air Forces Contract Pilot School was established in response. Between 1941-1944, up to 10,000 cadets were enrolled and trained to fly and fight combat in about 9 weeks.

There are 55 of these training centers across the country but the Douglas base is in the best shape with its original buildings, fields, and hangars. In October 2017, those WWII flyboy cadets were welcomed back to the Douglas hangar for a big reunion of the greatest generation. The barracks were converted into a museum that welcomes the public all year long to experience the exhibits about the men, training, facilities, aircraft, and equipment.

Insider tips: Don't miss Douglas' thriving downtown shops

WWII FLIGHT TRAINING MUSEUMAnother part of Douglas Georgia on the National Register of Historic Places is the World War II Flight Training Museum and

and restaurants. Grab lunch at Johnny's New York Style Pizza, dessert at Holt's Bakery, and get lost in Lucy Lu's Boutique.

Fitzgerald

Continuing northwest, there exists heartwarming history in Fitzgerald, Georgia. A former drummer boy in the Union Army in 1868 founded a city where Union and Confederate soldiers could live in peace and brotherhood. When the first Harvest Festival rolled around, separate parades were planned for the blue and the gray to avoid any uneasiness. When the Union veterans struck up the band, however, they were joined by the Confederate veterans in what became known as the Parade of Unity. Fitzgerald was one of the first strategically planned cities with streets that are still named after generals and ships from both sides of the Civil War. BLUE & GRAY MUSEUMThe old 1907 Atlanta, Birmingham & Atlantic depot houses the Blue & Gray Museum, which tells the story reconciliation, healing, and unity WINTER 2018 83

between the North and the South after the most divisive time in America’s history. Located in a historic railroad depot, the museum displays more than 1200 objects, photographs, household items, memorabilia and rare artifacts in new and refinished cases. Rare archival photographs of the earliest years of the Fitzgerald can be found there.

CARNEGIE CENTERDrive by the beautiful hometown cultural arts center in Fitzgerald housed inside the old Carnegie Library. If the flag is flying out front, they are open! This beautiful building opened in 1915 and hosts art exhibits from mostly local and state-based artists.

The newly renovated space boasts an upstairs meeting room gallery as well as the larger 1st-floor gallery. Fitzgerald-Ben Hill Arts Council staffs the facility and maintains a schedule of visual art shows and chamber music series. Heart Pine floors, original librarian desk, and portions of original shelving was able to earn a State Historic Preservation award.

Dublin

The beauty of the clean and beautiful historic downtown of Dublin Georgia is stunning. The pride for their heritage is evident upon entering "The Emerald City." It is said that a citizen named Dublin after his Irish homeland in 1812. Dublin's popularity is also attributed to its convenient proximity in middle Georgia that makes travel a breeze.

Historic Walking TourTake a walk through the gorgeous wealth of history & archi84

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tecture of downtown Dublin. There are more than 70 historic landmarks, sites and buildings like the First African Baptist Church, revitalized Civil War era homes, First National Bank, Dublin’s “skyscraper,” and the Old City Cemetery years of Civil War history rests. Look for the audio tour stations located at Theatre Dublin, MLK Monument Park, Old Post Office, & First National Bank for a more detail and deeper storytelling.

THEATRE DUBLINDublin's Oldest Theatre, The Martin, was affectionately called "The Martin" from the time it was built in 1934 and operated as a movie house until it closed in the late 70's. In the mid-nineties, the old theatre was renovated by several businessmen and community. The doors were reopened in 1995 and are now a treasured landmark.

The Theatre Dublin serves the Dublin's community as an elite performing arts center and a dual purpose venue for performing arts and film. Music, shows, ballets, performances, and modern cinema have all come together to create something really special.

Insider tips: If you are able to schedule your road trip in

March, you can experience the extraordinary Irish month-long celebration. You'll find plenty o' food, festivities, and music to delight all ages.

Richmond Hill

Heading southeast, is Richmond Hill, Georgia. Many gener

Insider tips: Drive along the Coastal Bryan Heritage Trail where you'll take public roads to ride by private homes and visit historical, though still active cemeteries and churches.

Darien

This tour ends in the second oldest planned city in Georgia and the site of the first fort on Georgia soil, the city of Darien. Just about 40 miles below Richmond Hill, Darien has quite a unique blend of living history and natural beauty at the mouth of the Altamaha River. It was founded in 1736 when James Oglethorpe recruited Scottish Highlanders to be protectors of the Georgia Coast from the Spanish, French and Indians. ations have called this home along the Ogeechee River and surrounding waterways. Over the years, Indian villages turned into rice fields, and then Richmond Hill became General James Oglethorpe's "Guardian of Savannah" with the construction of Fort McAllister during the Civil War. Located just 20 minutes south of Savannah, small-town charm in the museum, art galleries, quaint boutiques, and regional cuisine reign supreme today. You'll find out why Henry and Clara Ford fell in love with the unique scenery, wildlife, and peaceful community.

RICHMOND HILL WELCOME CENTER & HISTORY MUSEUMOnce in Richmond Hill, stop by the welcome center to get directions to the hot spots and learn why Richmond Hill's most famous residents, automobile industrialist Henry Ford and his wife, Clara decided to stay after just one visit. Members of the Richmond Hill Historical Society were recently able to locate and acquire a 1937 Ford Fire Truck believed to be supplied by Henry Ford and used in Richmond Hill during the Ford-era.

JF GREGORY PARK TRAILWhat was once a rice plantation is now a beautiful 335-acre multi-use recreational park with a 3-mile nature trail, Wetland Education Center, restored Henry Ford home, birding trail with a tower, a large lake, and pavilion. Most recently, lovely Veterans monument and bridge were added.

HOWFYL BROADFIELD PLANTATIONFive miles down the road is a rice plantation that a Charleston man carved right out of the marshes back in the 1800s. The family maintained the farm for years but hard financial times caused the fifth-generation siblings to convert it to a dairy farm.

In 1973, Howfyl Broadfield Plantation was handed over to the state of Georgia to preserve their family legacy. Today, travelers can visit the museum that features silver from the family collection and a model of Hofwyl-Broadfield during its heyday. Upon arrival, there is an interesting film on the plantation’s history, then a walk to the antebellum home is a must. A much-loved guided tour is given through the home as the tight-knit family kept it. Guests enjoy viewing family heirlooms, 18th-century furniture, and Cantonese china.

SAPELO ISLANDVisit a secluded Georgia Coast island accessible to the public by ferry on different days during the year. Start by driving to the Sapelo Island Visitors Center at 1766 Landing Road Southeast.

There, the traveler will find interpretive exhibits that highlight Sapelo Island’s rich cultural history, Estuarine, barrier island, and shoreline habitats. There are several areas to experience and learn about such as the Hog Hammock Community, University of Georgia Marine Institute, Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary and the National Estuarine Research Reserve System.

Insider tips: Don't miss Skippers Fish Camp on the banks of the Darien River for casual seafood dining and beautiful sunsets.

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OKEFENOKEE LIVING

A PLACE TO CALL

HOME STORY BY JAMES FARMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY FOLLOWILL

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.

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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.

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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!

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“Home - the difference between a home and a house is the tug of heartstrings and the longing to dwell there.

I

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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Home Health Care Equipment Sales & Rental Large Selection of Uniforms

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DOUGLAS-COFFEE COUNTY T CHAMBER MEMBERS ATTEND JENNIFER NETTLES CONCERT CONTRIBUTED BY THE DOUGLAS-COFFEE COUNTY CHAMBER

he Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce hosted a trip to attend the Christmas concert of Douglas’ own country music star, Jennifer Nettles, in performance with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Many thanks to Jennifer for warmly embracing each of her hometown fans and for an outstanding concert! In the picture Jennifer is holding DOUG, the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce Elf on the Shelf, who travels to local businesses throughout the Christmas season to promote shopping local and supporting local businesses.

(center) Dr. Glenn Deibert, CPTC President, (left of Deibert) Ted Buford, CPTC Board Chair, State Senator Tyler Harper, Larry Paulk, CPTC Foundation Board Chair, (right of Deibert) Buddy Carter, U.S. Congressman, Jimmy Brown, Ware County Commission Chairman, John Knox, Mayor of Waycross.

COASTAL PINES TECHNICAL T COLLEGE RIBBON CUTTING

he new Welding & Joining Technology and Computer Information Systems Building was officially opened on the CPTC – Waycross campus last Fall. Welding is a skill that is in high demand and these new facilities are some of the best that can be found in the state. “There is an incredibly high demand for welders and businesses are hiring our students as soon as they are ready,” stated Eva Byrd, project manager at CPTC. For more information visit coastalpines.edu.

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DOUGLAS COUNTY LEADERS RECOGNIZED BY GEDA

T JoAnne Lewis

Luke Morgan

he Georgia Economic Development Association presented top awards to two Douglas County residents at their annual awards luncheon in Atlanta recently. The Volunteer of the Year award went to Luke Morgan, Chairman of the Douglas-Coffee County Development Authority. The Rip Wiley Award for Professional Excellence was presented to the JoAnne Lewis, former President of the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber and Development Authority.

Guest, Jim Walker, Prime South CEO, Laura Lee Tison, Elite Primary Care, Bruce Tison, President-Prime South Waycross

Ellen Cox, Barbara Johnson, Tina Judah, Marcia Smith, Sherri Parker

Mrs. John Knox, John Knox, Mayor of Waycross, Renee Bolden, Waycross Chamber Director

Renee Choate, ATC Broadband, Cliff Knowlton, Prime South

PRIME SOUTH BANK HOSTS BUSINESS A AFTER HOURS FOR WAYCROSS CHAMBER

lively crowd was on hand at the Waycross-Ware County Chamber’s Business After Hours at Prime South Bank last Fall. Business After Hours is held monthly by the chamber to provide an environment for professionals and members of the business community to get to know each other better.

Chit-Chat will feature social scenes and good news from around the region in each issue. If you have photos to share from an event, please send them to us at info@showcasepublicationsga.com. Photos must be high-quality, and everyone in the photograph must be identified to be considered for publication. You can also message us on our FaceBook page, Okefenokee Living Magazine, and while you're there – be sure to LIKE and SHARE the page. It's a great way to stay in touch with what's happening in the Okefenokee region.

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WAYCROSS SERVICE LEAGUE’S ANNUAL BANQUET

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he Waycross Service League met for their 80th Annual End of the Year Banquet in May. This banquet celebrates all of WSL’s accomplishments throughout the year. Active and past members were invited to enjoy a delicious meal at the Okefenokee Country Club. This year, the active members of the Waycross Service League gave over 5,172 hours of their time in service for our community. The provisional class dedicated 742 hours of their time to the service league. In total, the members of the Waycross Service League dedicated 5,914 hours and 50 minutes to our community. With all of the fund raising this year, WSL was able to raise over $49,000.00 for local charities. It was a wonderful, exciting, and fun time had by all!

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1. Front row, Stacie Sheys, Michelle Skerrett and Dana Robbins; back row, Olivia Brasington, Buff Visicaro, Lisa Fesperman, Anne Fulford and Susan Sweat 2. Zena Lloyd (treasurer), Lara Carter (16-17 President), Kelley Ammons (17-18 president), Tess Aldridge (recording secretary), Kaitlyn Thigpen(corresponding secretary) and Lori Taylor (vice president; (not pictured)) 3. Rebekah Griffis, Katelyn Campbell and Kaylen Gill 4. Allison Eldridge, Angie Adams, Leah McDonald and Misty Burchett

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5. Nicole Wrobel, Anna Callahan, Chelsie Smith and Ashlynn Jordan 6. Katie Stewart, Virginia Tison and Shelly Gay 7. Lara Carter, Trina Dill and Tiffany Warren 8. Tess Aldridge, Kaitlyn Thigpen, Roxy Sheffield, Brittany Carter and Kara Corley 9. Sarah Tatum, Audrey Laine Seymour and Christen Maxwell 10. Chelsie Smith, Ashlynn Jordan, Jeslyn Stewart, Ashleigh Fleming, Danni Brooker and Jordi Craft

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THE CLARK EYE CLINIC

912-285-2020 502 Isabella Street Waycross, Georgia 31501

Serving our Members Since 1943 Stop in and see how easy it is to join!

Free Checking ● Mobile Deposit ● Online Banking Online Bill Pay ● Loans ● and Much More Offices conveniently located in Blackshear, Folkston & Waycross

www.united1stfcu.org Federally insured by NCUA

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TASTE OF THE CHAMBER - WAYCROSS

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he 2017 Waycross “Taste of the Chamber” took place in September to honor Chamber members’ culinary skills and deliver awards for service to the community. Each year during this event, participants vote on best food and presentation of the participating restaurants. Annual awards are also presented. Luke and Lavi Engram won “Best Entrée,” Angeleek Bostwick and crew from Okefenokee Country Club won “Best Decorated Table,” and LaTicia Gilliam and Oneida Oliver-Sanders won “Best Desert.”

In addition, Chamber members nominate for awards in customer service and workplace. The 2017 award for “Outstanding Customer Service” was presented to Carol Sciscilo. Prime South Bank was awarded “Best Place to Work.” The event was sponsored by AT&T represented by Gary Sanchez.

1. Jake Walker, Cliff Knowlton, Bruce Tison, Barbara Johnson, Cindy Barnett, Quincy Burgess 2. Gary Sanchez, Jamie Blake, Luke Engram, Lavi Engram, Kristy King Foreman 3. Kathleen McClure, Teretha Scott, Carol Sciscilo, Karen Hankal, John Miller 4. Kristy King Foreman, Nikki Crews, Angeleek Bostwick, Kay Dewberry, Matt Reade, Gary Sanchez 5. LaTicia Gilliam, Oneida Oliver-Sanders

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THE JOHN P. PIKE MEMORIAL CPTC SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT

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oastal Pines Technical College Foundation hosted the newly minted “John P. Pike CPTC Scholarship Golf Tournament” in October, 2017, to benefit Toolbox Scholarship recipients.

The tournament, held at the Okefenokee Country Club, was formerly known as the “Tee It Up For Tools” Toolbox Scholarship Tournament. The event was re-named the John P. Pike Memorial CPTC Scholarship Golf Tournament to honor a past president of Okefenokee Technical College who recently passed away.

Proceeds generated from the tournament will fund toolbox scholarships, which help deserving students get the resources they need to be trained and go to work. These funds help students purchase the ‘tools’ they need to succeed – things like books or uniforms, or kits for welding, cosmetology or medical supplies. On a broader scale, the funds that are raised enable the College to continue its mission to spur economic growth by creating a skilled workforce.

Coastal Pines Technical College Foundation changes the lives of countless families in the area by giving the gift of technical education to a mom, dad or young adult.

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1. The Family of John P. Pike and the Coastal Pines Technical College Stingray during the memorial golf tournament in John’s honor with CPTC President Dr. Glen Deibert (right).

2.“Fairley Foursome” - Jerry Sloan, Jim Fairley, Buddy Carter, Terry Griffin 3. “Pierce County Slice ‘Em For a Cause” Jason Rubenbauer, Stephen Taylor , Toby Harris, Matt Carter 4. “CPPI of Georgia, Inc.” - Jud Seymour, Dr. Glenn Deibert, Will Inman, Ryan Taylor

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5. “OREMC” - Darren Crews, John Middleton, Steve Wynn, Floyd Russell 6. “Provost Putters” - Ted Buford, Grant Gainer, LeAnn Roberts, Lonnie Roberts 7. “PrimeSouth Bank” - Bruce Tison, John Hereford, Dutch McNeal, Ty Wright 8. “Southeastern Business Machines” Adam Thomas, Marty Lee, Brian Hickox, Blake Dowling 9. “Team Hammer Time” – Randy Howell, Derek Howell, Bill Lee, Chad 10. “Weapons of Grass Destruction” Pete Snell, Orrie McCrea, K C Thornton, Hank Sirmans 11. “20 Seconds of Silence” – John Zechmann, Phillip Suess, Randy Yonz, Bryant Wiggins 12. “Fish’s Friends I” - Larry Paulk, Delos Sharpton, Don James, Terrell McCall 13. “Farr’s Fine Furniture” - Dr. Jim Morton, Bob Hereford, George Farr, Truman McLaine

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Amy Lewis Schultze, Lori Anne Lee, Randall Hickox, Cindy Williams Roberson, Lea King-Badyna, Veronica Burgess, Sheri Hickox Hamilton, Jeffrey Singletary, Donald Petty and Manis Davis

BRANTLEY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

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lumni of Brantley County High School celebrated the school’s 50th year anniversary in October of 2017. Members of graduating classes 1968-2017 gathered at Heron Stadium under tents on Saturday evening representing each graduating class after a 50th Homecoming was held on Friday night featuring football, cheerleaders, and band members from throughout

Cathy Chancey, Lawrence Melton, Cindy Ham, Wanda Morgan Smith, Leon Able,Karen Stokes, Al Ferguson, Sheila Smith, Clifton Roberson and Davis Stone

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the decades. On Thursday the committee played host to a parade Downtown Nahunta in which each era was represented by the iconic music and dress of each decade.

Photography by Kathy Hendrix

Cindy Roberson Middleton and Patti Duke Slaven

51st BCHS Principal Ben Horner and 1st BCHS Principal Andy Sutton

Brian ONeal, Danny Herrin, Michelle Coleman Boyd, Melissa Coleman Hendrix, Melanie Halligan Highsmith, Janice Doyle Roberson, Melinda Lee Brooks, Lora Herndon Harvard, Erika Wilson Groover, Marcia Gibson Dowling, Syble Brooker Johns and Heidi Woods

Jane Hinesley, Tammy Herrin, Cheryl and Kenny Johns, Dan Wilson, Nina Able and Al Ferguson

Mr Manus Davis, Mr Al Ferguson and Coach John Paul Picklesimer posing with members of their first TAG Class with the Class of 1977 including Delda Lee. Beverly Hendrix Parker, Marcia Stone Burgess, Carol Lynn, Linda Douglas Lucas, Annette Davis Arrington

Coach Forrest Thomas and Sheriff Len Davis leading the parade

Boys Basketball Head Coach John Paul Picklesimer reflects on days in the Nest

Rodney and Cathy Jacobs, Patti Slaven, Cindy Middleton, Linda Hand, Regina Hunter, Lynn Jones and "Roy"

Cathy Wynn Chancey

Karen Hendrix Gillis, Sissy Smith Baxley, Bill Sumner, SusanChambless Hickox, Mary Robinson Parrot, Randy Edwards, Frances Blue Taylor, Debbie King, Jackie Waits King

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PIERCE COUNTY MINTS NEW SPORTS HALL OF FAME STORY BY JOHN DUPONT - PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT BEAHAN – SHUTTERLY PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHY

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alf a dozen sports greats, along with several state champion athletic squads, were enshrined in the inaugural class of the Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame November 11. The ceremony, held at Okefenokee Country Club, also featured keynote speaker and Georgia Southern football legend Adrian Peterson, a nineyear NFL veteran.

Collective entities gaining enshrinement included the 1955 Blackshear High boys’ basketball team, the 1966 Patterson High girls’ basketball team, and three state champion girls’ basketball teams from Lee Street High School (1956, 1957, 1960).

Three of the individual enshrinees coached the aforementioned championship teams: The late Wallace “Country” Childs (Blackshear), Andy Pittman (Patterson), and Laurine Williams Taylor (Lee Street). The late Mary Rogers Brantley Mattson, a local golfing pioneer, was also enshrined, as were former Pierce County High School basketball standout Dwayne Myles and the county’s all-time winningest football coach, W.D. Strickland.

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1. (L-R) Bobbie Johnson, Robbie Beahan, Patricia Tuggle.

Robbie and husband Scott Beahan photographed the event for Okefenokee Living. Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Tuggle were on hand to support inductee Laurine Williams Taylor.

2. (L-R) Janice Crump Pittman, Helen Crump Brantley, Deena Crosby Bennett, Drew Pittman [family and supporters of inductee Andy Pittman.

3. (L-R) Maureen Brown, PCSHOF board member, with former GSU standout Adrian Peterson [Background - PCSHOF board member Daniel Washington]

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4. The Champions’ Table at Okefenokee Country Club offers a display of memorabilia honoring the 2017 Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame inductees.

5. Reginald Taylor accepts induction on behalf of his wife, Mrs. Laurine Williams Taylor (Mrs. Taylor unable to attend due to health reasons) 6. (L-R) Dick Childs, son of the late Wallace “Country” Childs, accepts induction on behalf of his father.

7. Diann Strickland, PCSHOF board member 8. (L-R) Inductee Andy Pittman accepts induction as PCSHOF board member Maureen Brown looks on.

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9. Inductees/proxies with board members and guest speaker (back row, L-R): Reginald Taylor (husband of Laurine Williams Taylor), Betty Brantley (daughter of Mary Rogers Brantley Mattson), W.D. Strickland, Andy Pittman, Adrian Peterson, Dwayne Myles, Dick Childs. (front row, L-R): Daniel Washington, Diann Strickland, Maureen Brown, John DuPont, Rick Head.

10. Sonny Bowen, son-in-law of the late Mary Rogers Brantley Mattson, a local golfing pioneer, accepts induction on her behalf.

11. Dwayne Myles, a PCHS basketball standout, receives induction from Rick Head, PCSHOF board member.

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12. (L-R) W.D. Strickland, the county’s all-time winningest football coach, accepts induction from John DuPont, PCSHOF president

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Photography by Scott Beahan – Shutterly Perfect Portraiture

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7 Ankle & Foot Associates

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5 Bone & Joint Institute

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72 Charlton County Development Authority 69 Charlton County Tourism 33 Coastal Pines Technical College 49 Consultants in Pain Management 20 Elite Primary Care-Waycross

1 Prime South

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richardsbbq.com

IBC Southeast Georgia Health System

folkston.com

representatives.countryfinancial.com

coastalpines.edu docpain.com

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38 Shutterly Perfect Portraiture 96 The Clark Eye Clinic 39 The CPAP Store

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55 Tim's Home Medical

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shutterlyperfect.net

44 Surcheros surcheros.com

26 The Historic Strand Theatre

mckinneymedicalcenter.com

sghs.org

48, 80 Showcase Publications, Inc. showcasepublicationsga.com

91 Jones Medical Equipment jonesmedicalga.ybsitecenter.net 59 McKinney Medical Center

renuemd.com

80 Richard's BBQ 91 Shane Watson Country Financial

gaderm.com

86 Georgia Physicians South

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10 Pierce Timber

folkston.com

eliteveinspecialists.com

96 Georgia Dermatology

96 Okefenoke EMC

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96 United First Federal Credit Union

61 Meadows Advanced Wound Care Center

BC Walker Jones

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59 Waycross Bank & Trust

IFC Merle Norman & Tuscan Sky Salon

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