Wayne County 2017 by Showcase Publications

Wayne County MAGAZINE

ADELINE KENERLY

Crowning Moments with Adeline RANDY FRANKS A HELPING HAND

TRE JACKSON AND TY MCGILL

LIFE IN THE NFL Showcasing Wayne Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Personality Where It All Comes Together Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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Showcasing Your Community's Personality 1652 Sunset Blvd. Jesup, GA 31545 | www.hopsicesoga.org | 912-588-0080 (24 Hours)1

42 ABOUT THE COVER:

Adeline Kenerly was crowned Miss Georgia in October, 2015, between the hedges in UGA's Sanford Stadium. That unique start to her reign suits this unique Wayne County native just fine. To her, it’s much more about the journey than the destination. Oh, the other beauty on the cover is Knox, her three-year old chocolate lab, who doubles as her "security guard." Cover Photo by Cassie Wright

TABLE OF

CONTENTS FEATURES 10

LOVE NEVER FAILS

MURPHY BUILDERS SUPPLY

RANDY FRANKS – A HELPING HAND

LIFE IN THE NFL

BO WARREN – THE MAN BEHIND THE LEGACY

EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON

THE DONALDSON’S: PUTTING THE “G” IN UGA

A LEGACY OF GIVING

A disease that threatened Hanna Keith Lewis’ life has not colored her love of life.

At the heart of Randy Franks’ long tenure as County Extension Agent and public servant is his love of helping people and a desire for progress.

Bo Warren is well-known not just for his love of sports or his legacy as a teacher but for the life he lived and the man he was.

Coach John and Anne Donaldson have a long history with the University of Georgia where Anne designed the school’s signature logo.

HAIL TO WAYNE COUNTY HIGH Fifty years of Wayne County High School.

42 CROWNING MOMENTS WITH ADELINE

It's a Family Affair.

Tre Jackson and T.Y. McGill may live life in the NFL, but they learned about life and football right here in Wayne County.

Tragedy inspired a lifetime of service for Toby Cameron.

The Bessie Griffin Surrency Medical Scholarship has a legacy of giving that the Wayne County Business and Professional Women’s Club continues to promote.

78 A BANK WITH A RICH HISTORY

Though American National Bank no longer exists, it lives on in the hearts of former employees.

To Adeline Kenerly, the journey and the opportunities that are the real crown of achievement, not the jeweled crown she wore as Miss Georgia.

Wayne County Magazine

Old School Traditions

MODERN DAY SAVINGS

NeSmithJesup.com 1910 E Cherry St. (Hwy 341) JESUP, GA | 912.427.2045 Showcasing Your Community's Personality

PROFILES 84

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE?

GROWING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

TAKING ON THE WORLD AS HER STAGE

DREAMING BIG AND DIVING DEEP

FOR YOU, MY HUSBAND

10 58

Abby Potts Knows She Can.

Martin Weathers is Helping Shape Future Leaders.

Christy Carter Brings Experience to her Role as Director of the Wayne County Chamber.

Kylie Valosen – Swimming Champion.

Melissa Moxley - Award Winning Author.

103 THE VOICE OF EDUCATION

Ki Riddle & Hannah Wise – State School Superintendent’s Advisory Council Members.

ARTICLES 8

JUST LIVE, WITH BLYTH BLAND

TO FROYO OR NOT TO FROYO - ETTINA JORDAN

SLIGHT CONFIDENCE LEADS TO ENORMOUS FAITH - CHRISINE PAUL

106 theDISH - A THANKSGIVING TABLEAU TO REMEMBER - JAMES FARMER

TALK OF THE TOWN

Wayne County Magazine

Showcasing Wayne County's People, Places, and Events.

Comprehensive

ORTHOPAEDIC CARE

The Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia offers a wide range of both surgical and non-surgical treatments. Our board-certified Physicians have expertise in a variety of orthopaedic and sports medicine needs such as: Rotator Cuff Repair, CarpalTunnel Syndrome, Botox® Injection Therapy, Ankle Sprains, Heel Pain, Knee Cartilage Tears, Nerve Conduction Studies & EMG’s, Tennis Elbow, ACLTears, Stroke Injuries, Spasticity, Bunions, Hip replacements, Knee replacements, Fracture Treatment, Acute Back Pain and much more! If you or your family suffer with any impairment of the musculosketal system, call us today.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Wayne County MAGAZINE

Editor-In-Chief Connie K. Riddle Publishers: John F. & Connie K. Riddle Showcase Publications, Inc.

Bowen, Hux, Connie, Ki, and John Riddle.

TRENDING IN A POSITIVE DIRECTION Webster defines the word trend as "a general direction in which something is developing or changing." In Wayne County, the trend is that our community is becoming even more dynamic with more diverse opportunities for people to enjoy all Wayne County has to offer. Likewise, Wayne County Magazine is trending in the same direction. To better represent our community, we have added a few new features we think you will enjoy and we hope will spark even greater interest from our readers. First of all, you have probably noticed that the magazine feels different. The new texture on the cover is referred to as “soft touch” and is the trend in upscale magazines. Wayne County Magazine is Wayne County's premier publication, and now it feels more like it. We've also added two new sections. “Profiles” are shorter stories about people in the community that are making a difference by going above and beyond, or have attained recognition for their achievements that deserve to be showcased. And, “Talk of the Town” will cover notable events, activities, points of interest, and people in a “quick-read” format that will include our "Community Showcases." These changes will allow us to feature even more of the wonderful people, organizations, and businesses that are adding to our quality of life. Finally, after numerous requests from our readers, now you can have Wayne County Magazine delivered directly to your home by purchasing an annual subscription or order on-line at showcasepublicationsga.com. It makes a great gift for those friends and family members who live out of town! Even though some things have been updated and changed, one thing remains the same - Wayne County Magazine will always showcase the amazing people of our community that makes Wayne County the place "where it all comes together."

John & Connie Riddle

info@showcasepublicationsga.com

Wayne County Magazine

Creative Director: Stacey Nichols Designers: Robert Self Russ Hutto Contributing Photographers: Kara Jackson Mattie Genaux Photography Old Goat Photography Tricia Armstrong Matt Boyd Photography Indianapolis Colts New England Patriots Melba Bennett Murphy Maggie Yelton Cover Photo: Cassie Wright Contributing Writers: Candee Harris Chrisine Paul John F. Riddle Kara Jackson Libby Madry Melba Bennett Murphy Blythe Bland James Farmer

Wayne County Magazine is published bi-annually by Showcase Publications, Inc. For information on advertising, submitting articles, or to subscribe: (912)-424-8772 – P.O. Box 391 Jesup, GA 31598 info@showcasepublicationsga.com Subscription rates in the U.S. are $15.00 annually. 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.

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212 S. Brunswick St. - Jesup, GA 31545 912-588-1760Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Just Live

A R T I C L E - B LOG G I N W I T H B LY T H E

BY BLYTHE BLAND

n reference to the phrases, "Life is short”, or “Carpe Diem" we are reminded that life is short, and to live every moment to the fullest. While most everyone would agree with these statements, I wanted to shed some light on reminding everyone to just live. Our schedules are so overwhelmed with extracurricular activities, daily errands, events, and do not even get me started on what a class schedule does to our brains on top of all of this. However, we go through our daily lives, schedules, and motions and forget to take it all in. Life comes with obstacles, stress, and heartache and because of this, I think that we tend to focus more on all of the troubles life brings, instead of just living and appreciating the fact that we woke up this morning. To say that someone always has it worse than we do is an understatement, and why am I exaggerating this? Because we forget to just live. Don't be afraid to do something that pushes you out of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to say exactly what you are feeling as long as it is something you’re passionate about, and above all, remember to just live. Today you probably woke up with a ton of things on your mind. Whether that be your class schedule, errands you have to run, or an event you have been planning for quite some time. All of these things cause us to stress or feel overwhelmed. Instead, I think we should challenge ourselves to be appreciative and just live. Live in these moments. Again, "carpe diem" if you will. This morning others are waking up without loved ones; others are waking up to a disease they are still fighting, and I think that if my dry cleaning and term paper are the only things stressing me out during the week, well life is treating me with some kindness today. We become so caught up in the hustle of our everyday schedules that we forget to stop and take in everything. Maybe sit outside today and study and take in the fresh air around you instead of complaining that it’s too hot. Play in the rain instead of cursing it. Call a grandparent or relative you haven’t spoken to in a while and let them know you were thinking of them. All of these things seem cliché, but they speak so much truth. So, I challenge you to live in every moment. If you have something to say, then say it. Tomorrow is not promised. If you have meant to reach out to someone or do even a simple deed of kindness, then do it. You may make someone’s day without even realizing you have. Life’s stresses cloud the appreciation we should have for simply being alive and in the moment. Remember to be positive. Remember to be grateful. Above all, do not forget to just live. In the end, that is all you are truly responsible for.

Blythe Bland is the twenty-year-old daughter of David and Arria Bland. She is the granddaughter of Jim and Margie Bland and Fred and Judy Fender of Jesup. Blythe is a Consumer Economics major at The University of Georgia and a member of the Kappa Delta Sorority as well as The University of Georgia Georgette dance line. Blythe is a writer for The Odyssey and writes articles on a weekly basis. Some of her articles have been in the top weekly shares with The Odyssey, yet she, along with many other content creators just enjoy writing for the fun of it. 8 Wayne County Magazine

Wayne

FAMILY PRACTICE

Our mission as Wayne Family Practice is to provide our family of patients with compassionate and competent medical care that seeks to preserve health and prevent disease. We strive to maintain a Christian environment of physicians, nurses and staff, dedicated to a partnership of healthcare with our community of patients. We want to create a medical home for our family, based on Spirit, structure and science. This medical home will be the starting point for both health and illness, and will accomplish our mission of healthcare.

Robert L. Phillips, M.D., Kevin O. Keown, M.D. & Tandy M. Smith, FNP-BC

Hours: Monday - Thursday 7 AM - 4:30 PM • Friday 7 AM - 12:00 PM After Hours/Emergencies: 912.427.6811 330 Peachtree St., Jesup, GA 31545 • www.waynefamilypractice.com • 912.427.6964 Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Hanna’s favorite Bible scripture and motto for her life: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25

Story by Melba Bennett Murphy Photography Provided by Hanna Lewis

Wayne County Magazine

An eight-year-old boy, recently diagnosed with cancer, was lying in his hospital room while his parents spoke outside the door with his doctor. As the doctor discussed the diagnosis, his mother ruefully remarked, “This will color his life.” From inside the room, the young boy, having heard this, interjected, “Yes, but I get to pick the color.”

This story could well be a replica of the experience of Hanna Keith Lewis, wife of Garrett Lewis and daughter of David Earl and Carol Reddish Keith. Unbeknownst at the time, this twelve-year-old patient would pick the color red, the color of courage, and green the color of hope. In 1998, Hanna was a sixth-grader when a biopsy revealed a cancerous growth, Ewing’s Sarcoma, wrapping itself around her right femur. Equating the word “cancer” with death, she nevertheless only once asked her mother, “Am I going to die?”. Asked how she developed her remarkable optimism and hope during this time, Hanna recalled that she was in the bone cancer unit with a fifteen-year-old also named Hannah. “What inspired me was her attitude,” said Keith. “She delivered gifts throughout the ward and always smiled. She was my role model, and I took my cue from her: a diagnosis of cancer did not have to color your life with one, bleak, and depressing color.”

“Beauty is not in your hair….it’s in your heart.” The picture above was featured in Savannah Magazine as part of an ad for Hanna’s reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Cliff Cannon. Hanna’s dress, reflecting family legacy, was enhanced by her Aunt Suzanne McPipkin with lace from her mother’s wedding dress, buttons from her late grandmother Kay Keith’s wedding dress, and pearls from her great-grandmother Sherrod.

Treatment included six months of harrowing chemotherapy, six weeks of radiation, and eight weeks in isolation following a painful bone marrow transplant. Extreme fatigue, nausea, radiation burns, weight loss (down to 60 pounds) and hair Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Hanna taking a chemo treatment, planning her wedding, and sharing that infamous smile.

loss were the accompanying physical side effects. The loss of her hair, a crucial part of a teen’s identity and the one-year separation from her class, while she was homeschooled, were significant adjustments to make. Reflecting back on those times Hanna called it “the best worst thing that could happen to me.” The life-threatening illness and the severity of the treatments were the worst things. But, Hanna believes that “the best things were the unbelievable support extended to me by our family, friends, and community, the developed interest in a future medical career, the expansion of my religious faith and beliefs, and the strength and self-confidence I acquired. She became active with Relay for Life and a speaker for the American Cancer Society inspiring others at a young age.

Above: Hanna is shown here with the office staff at Bone and Joint Institute. Below: Shown here with her nursing clinical group. Hanna wore a scrub cap to hide her bald head so as not to scare the patients in the Children’ Hospital. Bottom Left: Melanie Hollingsworth Harris and Hanna on surgery day. Bottom Right: Team Hanna’s Hooters at an American Cancer Society fundraiser in Savannah, Hanna with WSAVs Tina Tyus Shaw.

A couple of related medical issues surfaced, but Hanna finished high school with academic honors and an impressive list of leadership roles. Entering the University of Georgia, she earned a BS in Biology in 2009. Meanwhile, like other girls her age, she found a high school sweetheart, Garrett Lewis, and they dated from her sophomore year until they went to two different colleges. In December 2009, they each moved back to Jesup and soon rekindled their romance. Appropriately, on Thanksgiving Day in 2014 in front of both their families, Garrett and Hanna became engaged. They set the wedding date for May 2016, giving Hanna time to complete her nursing degree. Like other couples, they set a date, made plans, and Hanna purchased her wedding dress. In June 2015 after a routine visit, the radiologist called Hanna back for a second mammogram, assuring her “there was nothing to worry about.” Next, an ultrasound was ordered, and Hanna started to anticipate the findings when she was asked, “Is there anyone here with you?” Hanna says that the word “cancer” was not as scary this time. “My biggest concern was telling my parents. I knew it would conjure up all the fears of the past and new worries about my health and my future. But this time, I knew I was strong enough to survive and thrive amid what lay ahead.” Now the roles reversed; the patient became the comforter and emotional bedrock for her parents and fiancé. Less worried about the fatality of breast cancer, her parents’ attitude was, “I can’t believe she’s got to go through this again.” Hanna says that her attitude was, “I guess the Lord thinks I am strong enough to handle this again, and I’m sure He’s right.”

Wayne County Magazine

This time, Hanna had the love and support of her fiancé. “Being a logical thinker, Garrett, with tears in his eyes, held my hand and said ‘Okay. What’s the plan? Where do we go from here?’” Hanna and Garrett made lists of questions and weighed the pros and cons of each medical option. When the day came to consult with her doctor, they both pulled out individual notebooks to review their questions and take notes. Hanna laughs: “My sister jokes that it was at that moment she knew we were a match made in heaven.”

Hanna and Garrett were high school sweethearts; they look to both sets of parents, Herman and Brenda Lewis and David and Carol Keith, high school sweethearts themselves, for inspiration.

Garrett recalls, “The day of her surgery was one of the toughest and longest I’ve ever had to endure in my entire life.” Negative thoughts raced through his mind, including: “Will she recover? Will we be able to get married as planned? How will this shape our future?” As he remembers it, “Her smile and positive attitude about the entire situation helped me get through it all instead of the other way around.” After the initial shock of the diagnosis, Hanna says that the biggest problem was how to keep her treatments from interfering with nursing school and the wedding. “I bluntly told each doctor I dealt with that school was restarting January 11, and I was getting married in May.” With Garrett’s support, she elected for a double mastectomy, taking into consideration that her breast cancer, a result of the total irradiation of her body in her first cancer treatment, might mean a tumor developing in the other breast. “For a very short time we talked about postponing the wedding, but we had waited a long time, and we weren’t going to let a little tumor stop us. After that, things fell into place. The dress, which I had already purchased, covered my surgical scars. The wig I bought coincidentally matched the hairstyle I had already pinned on Pinterest. While hooked up to chemotherapy I used the time to browse bridal magazines.” As if beating cancer twice wasn’t challenging enough, one month after surgery Hanna returned to the hospital with an infection around the surgical site. “Facing this second cancer occurrence before our marriage gave Garrett and I a glimpse at what a real marriage is like,” Hanna adds. “Other fairy tales present blue skies, smooth sailing, and lots of time gazing romantically into one another’s eyes. But real marriage can be hospital visits, financial drains, struggles with infertility, and unexpected disappointments and adjustments. Garrett and I are fortunate to have already experienced what it means

Hanna and her original support system, younger sister Sidney, mother Carol Reddish Keith, and father Mayor David Earl Keith Showcasing Your Community's Personality

when you pledge ‘in sickness and health,’ a part of our marriage vows that brought a quiver in both of our voices,” remembers Hanna. Hanna’s father, David, remembers poignantly October 1998 when the family received the first diagnosis. I went to the chapel and prayed, “Dear God, spare my child and allow me to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day.” That prayer was answered in a ceremony celebrating family, tradition, and triumph. While some people nonchalantly refer to their wedding as a “celebration of life,” for Hanna and Garrett that was literally true. Hanna recounts that one memorable moment was “when we turned around, as husband and wife, and for the first time saw the church filled with people who had been supporting us throughout our journey. It was humbling.”

Another poignant moment for Hanna, David, and Carol was at the reception, when the parents of the other Hannah patient, who had lost her battle with cancer, came up to hug Hanna and congratulate her. Like other newlyweds, Hanna and Garrett are laughing and loving and learning as they set up a home together. Unlike a lot of couples, they have already fulfilled the promise of a good marriage and a love between soulmates:

“We wanted our wedding ceremony and reception to reflect who we are and where we come from. The ceremony was held at the First Baptist Church where I grew up with my childhood pastor, Brother Felix Haynes officiating. Garrett’s family farm was the location for the reception. My father walked me down the aisle wearing my grandfather Riley Reddish’s seersucker suit.”

Wayne County Magazine

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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Randy Franks retired in 2009 as Wayne County Extension Agent.

R a n dy F r a n ks A He l pi n g Hand

AT THE HEART OF RANDY FRANKSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LONG TENURE AS COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT AND PUBLIC SERVANT IS HIS LOVE OF HELPING PEOPLE AND A DESIRE FOR PROGRESS. Story By: Libby Warner | Photography Supplied by Randy Franks

hen reviewing the whole picture that is Randy Frankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, you just might find yourself in awe. Randy is a family man, a leader, an innovative educator, and a concerned and active citizen in his community and beyond. He is a farmer at heart. A cultivator of the richness of the land and people. His most significant investment rests with individuals whose lives he impacts through his varied capacities. Randy is a man of vision, knowledge, compassion, and dependability. Many may have a passion for making the world a more productive place, but Randy

embodies what it means to put that love of helping his fellow man to action through his many contributions to agriculture and the community. Randy Franks was born and raised in Tifton, Georgia. His wife, Joyce, was also raised in Tifton. The two fell in love and attended ABAC together for two years before marrying in 1976. As newlyweds, they purchased a trailer and moved it to Athens, Georgia where they both graduated from the University of Georgia. Randy, with a degree in Animal Sciences Showcasing Your Community's Personality

and Joyce in Home Economics. Joyce soon certified to teach Early Childhood Education. In college, Randy was a member of the UGA Livestock Judging Team. “This was a dream come true because I had participated in this in the 4-H Program. I traveled all over the U.S. competing against many other university teams,” he explained. In 1977, Randy scored second highest individual out of 300 contestants in swine judging in Houston, Texas. He still judges livestock. He is an instructor for the horse school, beef school, and many other classes held there each year at the Georgia National Fair in Perry, Georgia. Both his children have been involved in showing animals.

Randy’s first month on the job as Wayne County Extension Agent in 1981.

After graduation from UGA, Randy took the position of Livestock Manager at the 8,600 acre Jo-Su-Li Farm in Miller County, Georgia. He managed cattle and hogs for four years before Clarence Cross sold it. It was then, he and Joyce moved to Wayne County where he was named Assistant County Agent. In this job, he was responsible for the 4-H Program. For a short two years, he moved to Baxley to be the Ag Agent in Appling County. The swine industry was big in Georgia during this time, and there were 20,000 sows in Appling County. In 1987, he moved back to Wayne County to work as the County Extension Agent. Jesup became the family’s permanent home. During Randy’s long tenure as Wayne’s County Extension Agent, there have been many changes in agriculture. There was no effective Farm Bill in the 1980’s which caused many farmers to leave farming. In the late 90’s, there was a decline in hog production and farmers began growing more cotton and peanuts. In the late 90’s, the Farm Bill changed allowing farmers to grow as much cotton and peanuts. Farming communities started doing better during these times. “From 1994-2004, farmers were able to do well in the agricultural economy. Since then, commodity prices have changed, and in this current environment prices are fair at best,” he explained. Randy cites the increased communication and access to information as the most important change in the County Extension Agent’s job over the years. “When I began, everything was in hard copy. When someone called with a question on a particular topic, you had to go through the filing cabinets in search of an answer. Now, you just Google it or search the UGA website which has made the County Extension Agent's job much easier,” Randy explained. The most drastic change has come with mobile phones. “In the beginning, I used a 2-way radio that would lose communication with the office in certain areas of the county. I had to stop and use a landline phone to check in with the office for messages. Sometimes I’d drive back and forth across the county several times a day,” he recalls. Having access to the internet on mobile phones has drastically improved the response time to people’s needs. “Mark Frye, the current Wayne County Extension Agent, has a microscope with a camera that allows him to email digital photos of microscopic pathogens to Tifton or Athens receiving almost 18

Wayne County Magazine

Randy with Ronnie Griffis, a local farmer (deceased) who won the Chamber’s first annual Excellence in Agriculture Award which Randy helped present.

Randy advised farmers in Peru as part of a mission trip with First Baptist Church.

Randy and Joyce celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary recently and celebrated with a family beach trip. Justin and Erin Franks holding Blair, Randy, Joyce, Gina and Christopher Thornton with Tyson and Candice.

In 2009, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, visited Wayne County. The UGA Dean of Agriculture, Scott Angle, was in attendance as well and posed for a photograph with the Extension Office staff. Randy Franks, Janet Hollingsworth, Terri English, Carie Anderson, Belissa Wangstad, Mark Frye, with the Dean.

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Randy and Joyce enjoy their involvement in classic car shows across the country. They own a Trams Am-Bandit Edition, which they drive in the Bandit Run annually, and a 1999 Trans Am Fire Hawk. They are also members of the local Altamaha Classic Cruisers.

instant answers. We used to mail a sample and have to wait for answers which could take a week or more. This new technology blows farmers minds.” Since he did not end up a farmer, being a County Agent was a dream job for Randy. He has established himself as an expert in his field. He is a forage resource agent on the district, state, and national levels and is a highly recognized educator and resource person. He was County Agent of the Year in 1986 and again in 2008 by the Swine Growers Association and the Georgia Cattlemen's Association. But, of all the things Randy has done during his storied career, he is quick to point out that his favorite thing is, “...working with people.” He especially enjoyed working with the 4-H program which gave him the opportunity to invest in young people. “Anyone can buy animals, tractors, trucks, and other things but our youth are tomorrow's adults," he says. “It’s all about helping people and making their lives better. It does me a lot of good to see people succeed in agriculture and do well financially,” he says. Randy retired as County Agent in 2009 but, in 2010, rejoined the staff in a half-time position. He is still heavily involved in the 20

Wayne County Magazine

community serving as Chairman of the Industrial Development Authority. He coordinated the “Leadership Wayne” program for two decades and is still involved with that program today. He has held every leadership role at the Chamber of Commerce, positions on the Long Range Comprehensive Planning Committee, the Greenway Project for Jesup, the City Tree Board, and the Public Communications Council for Rayonier and the Federal Corrections Institute. He is a deacon at First Baptist Church where he has been a member since 1988. There are not many men who have influenced a community in the significant ways Randy Franks has in Wayne County and beyond. In fact, few men would even try. But, of all the things Randy has accomplished, raising a family and spending time with his children, Justin and Gina, and three grandchildren, Tyson, Candice, and Blair, is the closest to his heart. However, a close second is his love of cattle which he nurtures at his farm. His family affectionately calls him the “cattle whisperer." At the heart of all he has done and accomplished is a love for people and a desire for progress. He may whisper in a cow's ear occasionally, but it is the wisdom and judgment he whispers in the ears of men that sets him apart as a true leader.

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If you lived in Wayne County during the late 1960’s through the mid-80’s, the odds are good that you knew Bo Warren. He was a treasure to our community and the students he mentored. Valburn Howard Warren was born here in Jesup but raised across the Altamaha River in Long County. As a boy, he earned the nickname “Bo” after his father who was known for his wrestling matches with a bear named “Bo.” Friends began calling his father Bo after the bear, and Howard became “Little Bo.” Warren’s sister, June Wingate, recalled his childhood days, describing him as a very special little boy, kind and loving. He loved nature and being outside, and he first learned to play basketball using a hoop his parents set up for him in their backyard garden. June and her husband, Tommy, also reminisced about a time after they first married, but were living with her family for a short period. Space in the Warren household was limited, and they bunked in the same room with young Bo. Every night Tommy and Bo would toss a ball back and forth to each other across the room for hours on end.

Wayne County Magazine

Story by Candee B. Harris | Photography provided by the Warren family

Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister June thinks back to his childhood days with a smile. She recalls his affection for his dog, Butch, who would wait for him to get off the school bus in the afternoons when Warren would jump the fence to get to him. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Howard “Bo” Warren was a natural athlete lettering in both basketball and baseball through high school and college.

As a teen, Warren dedicated his life to God, became a high school basketball and baseball star and met his sweetheart, Shirley Hodges. He earned a basketball scholarship to Georgia Teachers College (later renamed Georgia Southern University) and continued excelling in both baseball and basketball, lettering in both sports all four years and setting several school records. After graduation, he joined the National Guard for a year, and he and Shirley eloped, getting married on January 1, 1958. As Shirley finished earning her education degree, Warren began his career at Rayonier in Jesup. He played baseball with the Jesup Bees Class D Minor League team where he earned at least one MVP award. He and Shirley set up housekeeping, joined First Baptist Church of Jesup and began their life together. “It was a blessing to have been married 27 years to a Christian. Anything we did together, we enjoyed, even if it was just going to take yard trimmings to the county landfill. We would hold hands and laugh, stop and get a Coke and a Snickers Bar and just enjoy the ride. His quick-wittedness was always a source of entertainment. I thank God for the life we had together. We had a good life, had the things we needed and always tried to live within our means. When the Howard “Bo” Warren Parkway was dedicated a friend came up to me and said he appreciated the highway being named for someone that was ‘just a good man.’” She 24

Wayne County Magazine

smiled as she thought back to those days. “I have never been happier than when I was married to Howard.” After ten years at Rayonier, Warren made a decision to leave in 1967 to follow his dream of teaching and coaching basketball and baseball at Wayne County High School while also pursuing his Master’s degree and later, his Specialist’s degree, from the University of Georgia. As his daughters got older, he traded his dream of coaching school sports to spend more time with them as they became involved in recreational sports. He continued teaching, earning many accolades throughout his 19-year career including Wayne County Teacher of the Year, State Vocational Diversified Cooperative Teacher of the Year, and was a finalist for State Vocational Teacher of the Year before his untimely death in February 1985.

The Warrens always provided a firm foundation of faith in their household, serving in many roles in their church. Warren taught Sunday school and served as a Deacon at First Baptist Church as well as serving as a Gideon, delivering Bibles to people in the community to spread the word of God. Dena recalled, “Our home was full of love and laughter growing up, but there were also tears and hard lessons that needed to be learned. Lessons that involved ethics, morals, values, sportsmanship, a sense of community and citizenship, forgiveness, love and honesty. Daddy was as humble a man as I have ever met . . . I can’t remember him ever saying a bad thing about anyone. I wish I had a little more of my Dad in me.” She shared a childhood story that taught her a life-long lesson in these characteristics. “I guess I was in about 3rd grade. Dad had taken Kendra and me to the grocery store with him to pick up a few things for mom while she was at home getting dinner started. You may be familiar with the delectable looking Brach’s candy displays at some grocery stores. Well, when you’re in third grade they look even more delectable. I know because I decided to put a few of those delicious candies in my pocket while at the store. On the way home I was sitting in the back seat carefully unwrapping a candy. I popped it in my mouth and began to enjoy the taste. I saw Daddy looking at me in the rearview mirror. He asked, “What are you eating?” Panic ensued. I knew I’d been caught so I 'fessed up'. Thinking I’d get a good talking to and that a punishment would have been bad. But, no. Daddy turned the car around, drove back to the grocery store and hauled me inside. Tears streaming down my face, I had to confess to the store manager, give back the uneaten pieces and pay him for the piece I had eaten with money Daddy had given me on the way back to the store. He gravely informed me that a pay-back method would be determined when we got home. Needless to say, it was a lesson in one of the Ten Commandments I learned well: Do not steal.” Kendra shared a wonderful story about her parents’ love and sacrifice for her: “First of all, God blessed Dena and me with the best parents ever. Our home was always filled with love.

Bo Warren, seen here with wife Shirley and daughters Kendra and Dena, inspired awe in Wayne Countians and in his family throughout his life. According to Shirley, “Howard was a man who expressed his beliefs through his poetry and the life that he lived daily. He was a very devoted man to God; a man who loved his church and his daily job as a school teacher - working with young people whom he respected and loved very much. Together we had two wonderful daughters, Kendra and Dena.”

Bo Warren and wife Shirley had a happy 27 yearlong marriage which she thinks back on fondly. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

One of my most heartfelt memories was when I moved to Memphis, Tennessee, to attend optometry school. I had never been so homesick. I know I must have called home every day for weeks, maybe months. I remember telling Daddy that I knew my calling long distance was getting expensive and that I would try not to call so much. Daddy’s response was, ‘I’ll sell the house to pay the phone bill if I need to; you call as much has you want.’ But there were many times I needed more than a phone call. I needed a loving hug. So Daddy and Mama would head out after school and drive twenty-six hours on a weekend just to spend a few hours with me. That’s what I call love! Daddy set a great example for us to follow as parents – put God first and love your kids like there is no tomorrow. It’s been 31 years since God called him home and I still miss him so very much, but Daddy gave us enough love to last a lifetime.” Through all of his adult life, Warren found joy, humor and comfort in writing poetry for family, friends, and co-workers. His repertoire included poems about life, faith, family, and work. They ranged from funny to serious to inspirational and were scribbled on scrap paper or whatever he found to write on when he felt inspired. Dink NeSmith, Jr. described Warren as “. . . a loving husband, a model father, and a genuine witness to the testimony of wholesome living,” and said of his writing, “His poetic expressions flowed as easily as the warmth that filled his life.” After his death, his wife and daughters realized that the poetic treasure he had amassed needed to be shared. Eventually, they were able to organize the writings and with the help of friends, they have published a book entitled Pieces of Life. A labor of love for his family, they knew exactly how they wanted to share the book. Warren was honored when the high school baseball field was renamed to “Howard ‘Bo’ Warren Baseball Field” in his memory. The Homerun Club that supports the baseball program maintains the field and depends on financial assistance from the community. The Warrens made a decision to dedicate all proceeds from the sale of the books to the Homerun Club to be used for the care of the field as a tribute to 26

Wayne County Magazine

Pieces of Life was unveiled on April 4, 2016, during a WCHS baseball game and is available for $10.00 at Sheffield Trophies and Sports Shop in Jesup. The Warren family is thrilled to share these inspirational, funny and poignant pieces of life and hopes you will enjoy them, too. their beloved husband and father. “Dad loved playing baseball. At the time he passed, he was still planning to play recreational church league softball in the summer. Every year he would say, ‘I think I’ll just play one more year.’ I feel he would be pleased that his work is benefitting Wayne County High School Baseball, and we want to thank everyone who has already purchased a book.”

Bo Warren was very well-loved by his community, family and friends, and the Wayne County High School baseball team still plays on the field named in his honor.

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A R T I C L E - FO O D

To Froyo Or Not To Froyo BY ETTINA JORDAN, OWNER, FOR THE LOVE OF YOGURT

rozen yogurt came to life in the 1970’s and was called, “Frogurt," now we know it as the tradename "FROYO." Then, consumer demand wanted a sweet product that tasted like ice cream but was healthier. Shortly the advances in technology allowed for that and in the 80's TCBY, (This Can’t Be Yogurt) opened. Within a few years, it quickly swept the country taking 10% of the frozen dessert market. Fast forward to the Millennium; frozen yogurt sales slowed down, and the people turned back to soft serve ice cream. Did you know people have been enjoying ice cream since the 10th Century? Outings to the local ice cream shop have been a favorite pastime for people of all ages. A visit to the local cool treats shop bridges the gap in age and also lightens any moment. The local ice cream shop is a happy place you look forward to visiting time and time again. The beverage company, Coco-Cola focused advertising campaigns around memories in the local cool treats shop. Norman Rockwell captured these brief moments of good times with others in many of his works of art. Ask yourself, is there anything better, than going out to get that special sweet, cool, creamy treat with someone? Yes, when you can enjoy a cool treat that is part of a balanced diet.

results. The potential attributes of this are known to: • Aide in the preventing gastrointestinal infections • Boosting the body’s immune system • Fighting certain types of cancer • Decreased symptoms of IBD • Fighting osteoporosis • Shortening the length and severity of common sickness Frozen yogurt is a component in the DASH diet, which is designed to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. This frozen treat has lots of vitamins and minerals, is low in fat and calories and tastes great all while promoting good health. As history often does, it has repeated itself again even with regards to the frozen yogurt industry. In 2008 there was a spike in sales of almost 25% and in the last few years "FROYO" shops have doubled. So, next time you want to do something just for you, with no guilt, be "Trendy," choose healthy, treat yourself to some frozen yogurt.

Both regular and premium soft serve ice creams use real heavy cream or pure milk in their recipes, with each serving having between 12-18% of milk fat and between 12-16% sweetener with the balance being thickeners and flavoring. For those who are lactose intolerant consuming ice cream or other milk products can cause them to have discomforting side effects. Soft serve ice cream is naturally a sweeter product than frozen yogurt and therefore has a smaller percentage of sugar per serving on average. The vitamins (B-2 and B-12) and minerals found in ice cream are an important part of keeping healthy teeth and strong bones. The health benefits of frozen yogurt are very impressive, and health-conscious people make it a part of their daily routine. All yogurt is required to be made with live and active cultures which refer to the living organisms; lactobacillus bulgaricus and streptococcus thermophilus which convert pasteurized milk to yogurt during fermentation and thus giving it that euro tart flavor it’s known for. Research studies on frozen yogurt and the benefits of probiotics, aka the friendly bacteria, it offers has encouraging 28

Wayne County Magazine

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John and Anne stand proudly at a UGA game in 1996. Behind them, the ‘G’ is very visible – the same ‘G’ that Anne designed on the Bulldogs’ helmet when Vince Dooley updated the uniforms in 1964.

Story by Kara B. Jackson Photography by Mattie Genaux Photography and provided by Anne Donaldson 30

Wayne County Magazine

John and Anne are both graduates of Jesup High School. They married in 1955 after their engagement on Contentment Bluff: “It was there that she asked me to marry her,” John jokingly says. “He chased me a long time!” responds Anne. John accepted a position coaching in Florida with Ray Graves where he coached several years until Vince Dooley called offering him a job at the University of Georgia. John took the job in 1964 and became the offensive backfield coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs, a team that was doing very well at the time. Dooley and the Donaldsons became close friends. According to Anne, “They don’t come any better than Vince Dooley.”

John and Anne Donaldson ‘bleed red and black’ as the saying goes, and are proud to wear their University of Georgia attire.

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Dooley undertook a project to redesign the team uniforms, changing the silver pants to white with a red and black stripe, incorporating a red helmet and white facemask. When the helmet needed a logo for the helmet, who did Dooley turn to? None other than his dear friend Anne Donaldson. Anne graduated from the University of Georgia with her Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, and having taken a lot of lettering courses, she was the perfect person to design the new logo. “John came home one evening after practice and threw the helmet down and told me that Vince needed a logo,” said Anne. “He wanted me to design it, and I took out a piece of paper and drew the G – a simple, bold G – and taped it on the helmet. John took it back, and Vince loved it!” Anne attributes the acceptance of her logo to the winning streak that the Bulldogs had at the time. “If we’d been losing, they would’ve blamed the G!” she laughed. While John coached, Anne was a school teacher, which was appropriate since she had her Master’s degree in Art Education and an Education Specialist degree. Over the years, she taught art, English, and history, and taught art education at UGA one summer.

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John and Anne decided that they were ready to move back to Jesup, where it all began for them, and Vince offered John a raise to stay. They refused, and came back home, where John coached a total of 18 years. Under his leadership, Wayne County won two state championships and many, many other regional championships. Vince Dooley and the Donaldsons remained friends, even after John and Anne decided it was time to come back home. Years after coaching together, Vince dropped a book by to the Donaldsons with this note inscribed in the front: “To my long time good friends John & Anne – Enjoy the “Play Book” and the Bulldog’s Greatest Moments and Plays! Great memories! Go Dawgs! Vince Dooley P.S. Anne Thanks for the G!” “I was honored to have such a privilege,” said Anne. “Lettering has always been interesting to me, and to be able to do something that has lasted such a long time is a huge honor.”

Vince Dooley and the Donaldsons remained friends, even after John and Anne decided it was time to come back home. Years after coaching together, Vince dropped a book by to the Donaldsons with this note inscribed in the front: “To my long time good friends John & Anne – Enjoy the “Play Book” and the Bulldog’s Greatest Moments and Plays! Great memories! Go Dawgs! Vince Dooley P.S. Anne Thanks for the G!”

The University of Georgia ‘G’ is iconic to Bulldog fans everywhere. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Wayne County Magazine

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“...Hail to

WAYNE COUNTY High”

Monday August 29, 1966, Wayne County High School,

housed in a building first occupied in 1958, began its 50 year odyssey with the consolidation of Jesup High School, Odum High School, and Screven High School, and open enrollment from Wayne County Training School. These changes increased the size of the WCHS student body by one-third from the previous year, from 926 to 1250 and increased the faculty size to 48, 20 of whom were new teachers. Principal Charles E. “you-will-be-dealt-with-accordingly” Bacon began the school year, replaced mid-year by the more affable William Cheshire, Sr.

Former teachers and students remember the transition, including former assistant principal Don Blocker who praised the smooth coming together of the students. A few others, attested by newspaper reports of the time, saw a more dubious start. Some parents in Odum, seeking to preserve their beloved community institution, filed an injunction in federal court against the Wayne County Board of Education and initiated a recall election of the superintendent and four of the board members to thwart consolidation.

Story and Photography by Melba Bennett Murphy

Wayne County Magazine

Student Council President Linda Mooney Tannenbaum and Advisor Glenn Keebler introduce the new school sign, partially paid for by a student drive of S&H Green Stamps.

An upcoming senior at Screven High School, Derone Crosby Sawyer remembers, “I was totally against going to Wayne County High School at first but I would take nothing in the world for the transfer now. Had we stayed, I would have graduated with 11 students instead of with the 208 classmates and friends of WCHS. I cherish the memories of my senior year and the reception that the Jesup seniors gave us. I even hugged Brother (Superintendent James E.) Bacon’s neck when he handed me my diploma and thanked him.” Former chemistry and physics teacher, Lucy Shaw, remembers, “I think the county parents were protecting a tradition, and maybe the kids were apprehensive, but when the students got involved in WCHS they were pleased.” Transitioning from Northside High School was more complicated. The 1966-67 school year was the second year of “freedom of choice” in the county. The Wayne County Schools

Aerial view of the old Wayne County High School and marker commemorating the past and the future of WCHS

Artist’s Rendition were mirroring what was going on throughout the nation as segregated school districts gave students the right to choose, independent of their race, to attend formerly all-white and all-black schools. The previous year only one AfricanAmerican student had attended an all-white school. This 66-67 school year, 45 students from Northside applied to attend the newly created Wayne County High School. While Odum and Screven students had the luxury of coming with their entire graduating class, Northside students were indeed a minority. Future WCHS English teacher Charlene Norwood was a sophomore that year. She recalls, “It was scary. The former Northside students would gather at recess and lunch to share their experiences. Even among the teachers, you could sense who was welcoming and who wasn’t.” Norwood praised guidance counselor Marie Madray for her exhibiting kindness and concern. The only teacher coming from Northside that first year was Charlesetta Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Keller. A colleague in the English department, Delinda Ogden Pattie, remembers Miss Keller warmly, “She was a lovely person in every sense of the word and an incredible teacher and respected co-worker.” A more universally welcomed change, the newly opened WCHS Vocational School was one of only two brand new ones in the state that year, bringing the status of Comprehensive High School to Wayne County. Years before, The Wayne County Press, published by Elliot E. Brack, put the creation of a Vocational School on a list of Continuing Objectives for Wayne County. Approved by the Wayne County Board of Education in January of 1966, it was completed by local contractor Watson-Yeargan two weeks before the school year began. The eleven-classroom building was the first airconditioned building in the county system and had three spacious shops for first-time welding, auto mechanics, and electronics classes. W. Don Blocker, a former agriculture teacher at Screven High became the Vocational School Supervisor. Coming from Odum High School, Harriet Cooper became the coordinator for Vocational Office Training (VOT), which joined similar programs in Distribute Education (DE) and Diversified Cooperative Training (DCT). VOT provided work training for high school seniors in preparation for full-time employment in officerelated occupations. Mrs. Cooper saw the consolidation of the county high schools as a significant step forward for educating students. “It became economically feasible to offer state-of-the -art vocational training. You can’t imagine what it was like to walk in those classrooms and see the students take the covers off the brand-new IBM electric typewriters.” September 1966 inaugurated certain firsts and a few lasts for the high school. The graduating class of 1967, the last class whose senior ring was stamped “Jesup High School”, became the first class to sing the Alma Mater with “Hail to Wayne County High” instead of “Hail to Jesup High.” It was the first year of the marquee school sign, no designated “Senior Superlatives” and 38

Wayne County Magazine

Faculty members, Lucy Shaw, Delinda Pattie, and Harriet Cooper

graduation speakers voted on by the senior class. The school board voted that year to start an ROTC program and to build tennis courts on the campus. The high school baseball team won its first and last state title. A typical day of a student of that year might be a culture shock to today’s students, who might be the grandchildren of those students. School began after Labor Day and ended the first week of June. Traditional report cards were issued every six weeks. Students in homeroom rotated reading from the Bible each morning and saying the Lord’s Prayer. Girls could not wear slacks or shorts in school nor could an unmarried pregnant female attend school. A sixteen-year-old student, with a note from his or her parents, could smoke cigarettes at recess in the “smoking pit.” There were no soft drink machines, no tea served at lunch, no menu selections to choose from, and every Friday the lunchroom served fish sticks to accommodate Catholic students. When the

Seniors in 1966-67, Dr. John Wolfe, now a local dentist, was a defensive back on the football team, and Betty West Benner, was a cheerleader.

bell (and it was an actual bell) rang for lunch, students remained in their classroom until a Student Council member came by and dismissed each class. Football, band, and cheerleaders all had a designated sixth period class. There were no special education classes, no co-ed physical education classes, sex-segregated home economics, auto mechanics, welding and electronics, and yearly “birds and the bees” talks in assembly. Paddling was routine, and most teachers had a personalized wooden paddle in their classroom. Student Council sold student telephone directories as a fundraiser and another club sold paperback books in the library at a book fair. Football players went to a weeklong camp at Parker’s Paradise where hazing and head shaving were a traditional part of that week.

Louise Daniel Robinson, Charlene Norwood, and Peggy Harper Riggins were sophomores that year who later returned to teach home economics, English, and psychology, respectively, at WCHS. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

There were Thursday night bonfires before every home football game and pep rallies every Friday at which the last event was the student body singing the Alma Mater. The “library” was not a separate building, and teachers checked out film projectors and filmstrips. Students could take Latin and a class called “study hall” in which they did their homework. At recess and lunch students lined up to use the single telephone booth in which they deposited a dime. With no air-conditioned classrooms outside of the vocational school, teachers vied for sixthperiod planning, so they didn’t have to contend with hot and sleepy students. The school colors were gold and white. On annual (yearbook) day a band played the last half of the day in the area that would later become the student center. The guidance department sponsored a College Night where representatives of state colleges lobbied students. Majorettes had no previous former twirling lessons and were sent to summer camps to learn twirling; their silver uniforms were adorned with bright, non-school color trimmings. Students who drove to school had to turn in their keys every morning in the front office. The tennis team played at the recreation center courts, and the prom was held at the Cracker Williams recreation center. As there were no exemptions for finals, the entire school let out at 3:20 on the last day of school and invariably someone pulled the fire alarm on the way out the building. There was a school-wide baccalaureate on the Sunday

before graduation, and eighty-eight graduates left on a school-sponsored eight-day class trip to Washington, D.C. and New York City. Fall 2001, Wayne County High School relocated to its present location at 1 Jacket Drive. At least ten teachers and staff who had been part of the student body that first year were part of the faculty: Betty West Benner, Gena Wolfe Daniel, Linda Edenfield Hires, Roger Lewis, Lolita Nix Morales, Melba Bennett Murphy, Charlene Norwood, Peggy Harper Riggins, Louise Daniel Roberson, and Pam Harper Thompson. The original buildings on Orange Street were leveled in 2014 with the exception of the vocational school and third hall. Still operational 50 years later are the football and baseball fields and stands. Schools are mirrors that reflect society and windows that open new opportunities for individuals and for change in the culture. Current Superintendent Jay Brinson, not born until three years after the birth of the Wayne County High School, reflected on the innumerable of changes in the intervening years. “The focus of education in Wayne County has always been on continuous improvement and providing the best opportunities for our students.” While many educators hope that the pendulum will swing back to less emphasis on test scores and more education of the whole child, Wayne County alumnae will “cherish the memories of days that were bright…and hail to Wayne County High.”

The original buildings on Orange Street were leveled in 2014 with the exception of the vocational school and third hall.

Future county officials Nancy Dent Jones (top) and Frances Bennett Yeargan (bottom) were sophomores.

Standing in front of the Vocational School are Assistant District Attorney Helen Hirvela Aberle and Joe McPipkin both freshmen in 196667. McPipkin served as WCHS principal from 2005-07 40

Wayne County Magazine

WHERE IT ALL COMES TOGETHER FOR YOUR BUSINESS

t all comes toget ere i he

Chamber of Commerce “The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce serves as the unified voice of the business community. Partnering with the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority, we work to make our community the best place for new business opportunities and an outstanding location for our existing industries. Our shared vision is to make our community a better place to live, work and raise our families. The Chamber believes that Wayne County truly is the place “where it all comes together.” – Joy Burch-Meeks Wayne County Chamber of Commerce 261 W. Plum Street / 912-427-2028 www.waynechamber.com @WayneCountyChamber

@WayneCoChamber

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Story by Melba Bennett Murphy Photography provided by Kenerly family & Matt Boyd Photography

Wayne County Magazine

The fantasy of many young girls is to become a fairy tale princess or a beauty queen. What is it like when the fantasy, complete with jeweled crown, satin sash, and stunning dresses, becomes a reality?

Adeline Bland Kenerly, 22, daughter of Dr. Lex and Joy Bland Kenerly has completed her reign as Miss Georgia, 2015 and can comment on the reality of a young girl’s dreams. What she would want you to know is that the title and the crown are not the ultimate destinations. Instead, it is the journey and the opportunities that are the real crown of achievement. Adeline began her journey as a three-yearold taking baton lessons in her mother’s studio. Joy Bland Kenerly, a former UGA majorette, passed on her enthusiasm and talent to daughter Adeline and her younger sister, Jameson. “The sport of baton twirling is under-valued and sometimes caricatured for its glitz and glamor,” says Kenerly. In reality, baton twirling combines many of the attributes of more traditional athletic sports and the performing arts. Hours and hours mastering and perfecting a complicated trick builds tenacity and self-esteem. As a result, over her twirling career, Adeline won more than 500 state and national awards and twirled with Team USA in the World Baton Championship in Sydney, Australia in 2009.

Retiring her Miss Georgia title at Columbus, Adeline now becomes part of the “Forever Miss Georgia” group of Miss Georgia’s from as early as 1948 who support the organization and encourage its participants.

Adeline’s journey to become Miss Georgia followed a similar route. Local and area pageants provided a comfortable place to develop confidence on stage. Her first real title, at age 13, was Miss Golden Isles’ Outstanding Teen, in a division comprised of 13-17-year-olds. In 2014 Kenerly, a junior, was crowned the Miss University of Georgia and in 2015 was named Miss Capital City. Competing in the 2015 Miss

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Georgia Pageant Adeline won first place in the interview, her primary goal, and came in first runner-up. “I was so happy for my good friend, Betty, satisfied that I did my best, and completely at peace with the results.” Then, an unexpected series of events unfolded, or as Adeline explains it, “God had more plans for me.” September 13, Adeline was watching the Miss America Pageant when Miss Georgia was crowned Miss America. “I was excited for Betty and for the state of Georgia to have its second ever Miss America,” said Kenerly. “It wasn’t until a moment later that I realized, ‘Wow, my life’s about to turn upside down.’” A dual-major in digital broadcast journalism and political science, Adeline had already started fall semester classes and committed to her last year twirling with the Redcoat majorette line. The band director and majorette coaches agreed to allow Kenerly to juggle both responsibilities with the caveat that Adeline be crowned during a halftime show at Stanford Stadium. October 3 Adeline was crowned in front of 90,000 spectators, the largest live audience at a Miss America-affiliated crowning ceremony. Pageant duties required from three to five appearances per week. Her mother relates, “It wasn’t unusual for her to leave the field after halftime and jump in a car and travel a considerable number of miles to emcee a local pageant or speak at a banquet that night.” Of course, riding in her 2016 Kia Sorento, a Miss Georgia perk, made the trips easier as she also visited schools, hospitals, community fairs, civic groups, and charitable events. “You have to be ready for almost anything, especially the spontaneous Q & A segments,” muses Adeline.

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Adeline Kenerly was officially crowned Miss Georgia at halftime of the Alabama vs. Georgia football game on October 3, 2015, by Miss America, and former Miss Georgia, Betty Cantrell. Two years on the WCHS Majorette line, four years twirling and choreographing with the UGA band, culminated with Adeline being named NBTA’s Miss Majorette 2013, the top college twirler in the southeast.

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Adeline and Jameson performing a baton routine. Children learn as they play and Adeline and her sister Jameson’s early years of baton twirling were the foundation for their mastery.

Adeline designed, developed, and marketed Addie Bears, collegiate Teddy Bears, to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network.

Wayne County Magazine

Asked what, if anything, peeved her about the world of pageants, she decisively said, “The stereotype of being a ‘Pageant Girl’ with the implied frivolity and spotlight on beauty and appearance.” In reality, rather than being a self-serving avenue, the Miss Georgia Pageant has a four-pointed crown representing style, scholarship, service, and success. Adeline’s diverse talents, experiences, and accomplishments reflect each of those points. The presentation of style in evening wear and swimwear gets a lot of attention. But style also includes confidence, demeanor, and character. Adeline reflects, “I think evening wear is an opportunity to visually connect with the judges again and remind them of who you were in the interview. It’s an opportunity to show poise and grace and confidence while still holding true to the traditions and origins of the glamor associated with the Miss America program. It’s not all about the dress but about the girl wearing it.” Judges responded well to her style as Miss Georgia Vice President Greg Blazer stated, “Adeline captivated the judges in the interview competition because she speaks with both intelligence and compassion on a wide variety of issues. She effortlessly conveys eloquence and the courage of her convictions.” The Miss America program is the largest scholarship program for young women in the United States and awards $45 million dollars to over 1,200 young women. Besides the scholarships awarded to the winner, Adeline received the Legal Studies Scholarship and the Miss America Community Service Scholarship for her service platform. In the 1980’s, the Miss American organization began promoting service by requiring each contestant to embrace a social platform of national significance. Adeline’s platform was “Helping Heroes: Helping Heroes: Support for America’s Veterans.” Noticing the lack of support for thousands of returning young veterans who were enrolling in colleges and universities, Adeline mobilized over 40,000 people at UGA to join her “Dawgs for the Troops” campaign. As she tells it, “I produced a professional video and coordinated a university

Called a ‘storybook couple’ Adeline remembers UGA quarterback, Greyson Lambert passing her notes in the fifth grade. High school sweethearts, they rekindled their romance when both ended up at UGA. While their high-profile accomplishments get a lot of attention, Kenerly insists “we’re just a regular couple who enjoy time together doing ordinary things.” The other handsome fella is Knox, her three-year-old chocolate lab who provides personal security for the UGA Majorettes and Adeline’s Miss Georgia appearances.

wide social media blitz providing awareness for UGA Student Veterans and their unique challenges.” Even her beloved chocolate lab, Knox, joined the program when he became a certified Pet Therapy Dog. The crown point of success is not to merely demonstrate success, but to provide an opportunity to gain additional life experience, enhance personal and professional skills, and expand one’s talents. Adeline individually raised over $2,000 selling her personally created “Addie’s Bears.” In October 2015, reflecting her “significant contributions to the University, the State of Georgia, and the nation,” Adeline became 1 of only 700 people since 1898 inducted into the Sphinx Honor Society.

With graduation in December 2016, plans to attend law school and interests in a career in broadcast journalism, Adeline believes her involvement in the Miss America Organization has helped her journey. “Miss America, as well as Miss Georgia, has evolved into an active role of a spokesperson, and this appeals to me because of my career ambition of broadcast journalism.” One of her career role models, television journalist Amy Robach, news anchor for Good Morning America, echoed these sentiments when Adeline met her on a trip to the ABC Studios in New York City. Robach, a graduate of UGA’s Grady School of Journalist, was 4th runner-up in the Miss Georgia Pageant.

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Adeline grew up in a family where current events were discussed around the dinner table. Asked to give one word to describe each sibling she would say, left to right, “Asher – brilliant, John Lex – creative, and Jameson – compassionate.” Adeline calls her father, Lex, “the most supportive, encouraging, and loving Dad around” and a hands-on though behind-the-scenes collaborator. Her mom Joy is her professed “best friend and twin.”

The return to Columbus in June 2016 marked the end of this particular journey for Adeline, but before she retired her title in Columbus, she performed a talent each night at the pageant, participated in special production numbers, and assisted in crowning the preliminary winners. Tapping into her digital-broadcasting skills, Adeline produced a video for the Children’s Miracle Network that was shown to the audience. That same night, Adeline’s sister Jameson, Georgia’s 2012 Most Outstanding Teen, perform a lyrical baton routine with her to the Christian song “Good Good Father.” Adeline now moves into a new role as a “Forever Miss Georgia.” She believes that the crown was not the objective nor the glory, but a symbolic reminder of her developing style, service, scholarship, and success. “Now, I’ll forever wear a more important ‘invisible crown’ of gratitude, indebtedness, and commitment to pay it forward to my broader community.” Asked how she what, she would like to be remembered she replied: “That I served with a grateful heart.” “My family legacy is in the Miss American Organization (MAO) system where my mother and my maternal grandmother, Marjorie Hyers Bland, competed. This is the only known three-generation participants in MAO pageant history. I saw firsthand the positive impact MAO had on these strong role models in my life.” Adeline’s grandmother, Marjorie Hyers Bland - 1955

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Adeline’s mother, Joy Bland Kenerly - 1981

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Members of the “family” at Murphy’s Builders Supply: (front row) Woog Roberson, Jennifer Murphy Reeder, Ava Fuentes, Ros Murphy, Clarissa Cooper, Misty Ratliff. (middle row) Luke McBee, Tori Fuentes, Debbie Priester, Chase Thornton, Alan Brady. (back row) John Yonkosky, Kevin Murphy.

MURPHY BUILDERS SUPPLY:

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR

A lot has changed since Buck Murphy opened his business 70 years ago when his suppliers would do his ordering for him with hand written tickets. Some things haven’t changed – it’s still a family run business with the same commitment to courteous and knowledgeable service.

STORY BY LIBBY MADRAY | PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY JENNIFER REEDER AND MELBA MURPHY

he gigantic redwoods in Northern California grow to such extraordinary heights and breadths because they grow from what is called a Family Ring, a nod to the strength of family ties. The trees grow in a ring or a circle, interlocking their root systems, which affords them strength drawn from each tree in the circle. A similar experience can be found in the family business at Murphy Builders’ Supply where

four generations have contributed, strengthened, and enhanced the company for seventy years. The founder of Murphy Builders Supply, R.W. “Buck” Murphy, returned to Jesup after service in the Army in World War II with an Industrial Management degree from Georgia Tech. Jesup and Wayne County were ready for growth with returning soldiers, the baby Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Three of Ros’ children, Kevin, Jennifer, and Justin, at one time were working at Murphy’s. From left, Kevin Murphy, Byron Lewis, Jennifer Murphy Reeder, Ralph Doomes, and Justin Keith.

Murphy's employees have said, "Ros would never ask you to do something he was not willing to do. No job was too beneath him."

"Not all situations of a family working together goes smoothly. In our case, there is great respect, trust, and a spirit of working fun between us that it lightens our workload and makes going to work a joy.” – Ros Murphy boom, and the G.I. Bill facilitating the building of new homes. At the same time, a plant in Doctortown, which produced plywood for the military, now began selling to other suppliers. Taking advantage of that opportunity, in 1946 Buck opened Murphy Builders Supply as a plywood outlet in Jesup. In the beginning, he began by using the barter system, hauling plywood to Savannah in exchange for items such as hammers, nails, paint, sheetrock, etc. That practice turned Murphy’s from a plywood company into a builders’ supply business. Small town business practices were different during those times. An oft-told family story is of Buck’s morning routine in those early days. He would arrive around 6 a.m. to make coffee and read the newspaper. Contractors would come inside and get the keys to unlock the back of the store or lumberyard where they loaded what they needed before stopping back by Buck’s office to tell them what they got. This camaraderie between Buck and his customers led to lifelong friendships. Buck Murphy passed on his business acumen to his five children, Susan, Mike, Ellen, Katie, and Roswell, with each of them becoming entrepreneurs in various enter-

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prises. Only the youngest, Ros, would follow his father into the family business. Working at Murphy’s since he was sixteen, Ros worked in every area of the store and advanced to manager and CEO. There was a very compatible division of labor in the business in that Buck wasn’t as interested in the “hands on” and technical aspects of building supplies. On the other hand, a proficient builder and handyman, Ros was a significant resource, in the days before internet referencing and cable television shows, to the walk-in customers. Long past the time of retirement, and up through his ninetieth birthday, Buck came in each morning to “open the mail” and deliver it to the appropriate offices. Ros especially cherished the interaction with his father. Ros reflects that he “had an invaluable gift of wisdom, experience, advice, and great banter with my father on a daily basis.” In Buck’s last few years, Ralph Doomes, one of “Daddy Buck’s” favorite employees, would go pick him up and drive him to the store. Later, at Buck’s funeral, the family emerged from the church to find Ralph behind the wheel of the hearse and stating his intention to “drive Daddy Buck one last time.” The torch was passed to the third generation when Ros began taking his young daughter Jennifer to the store on

(front) Buck Murphy, Emma Murphy, Noah Murphy, Ros Murphy; (back) Luke McBee, Jennifer Murphy Reeder, Kevin Murphy.

Saturdays. She quickly developed a fascination with all aspects of the store. Though she gravitated to bookkeeping, she could spout price quotes and recommend products with the greatest knowledge. Five years her junior, son Kevin, followed later, specializing in paint products and inventory. In fact, at one time or another, Ros’ three stepsons, Matt, Russ, and Justin Keith also worked part-time for the company. Ros says, "Not all situations of a family working together goes smoothly. In our case, there is great respect, trust, and a spirit of working fun between us that it lightens our workload and makes going to work a joy.” The Family Ring was tested in January of 2015 when Ros unexpectedly became confined to a wheelchair. The time spent working closely alongside their father made Jennifer and Kevin well-equipped for a seamless transition into roles of greater responsibility. Add to that the tremendous

loyalty of the employees, who stepped up and shouldered additional duties, even backing up Jennifer and Kevin as they helped his wife Melba transition Ros from physical rehabilitation to home. “One of the greatest moments of pride in my life,” says Ros,” is how each employee did whatever it took to continue our customer service and how loyal our customer base was in spite of the ‘changing of the guard’.” If "life is what happens when you're making other plans," nowhere is that more evident than at Murphy’s. “My favorite part of work was always waiting on customers. I relished seeking solutions to their problems, joking with them and enthusiastically interacting with employees, contractors, vendors, and customers. That was my passion… my heart.” Now, Ros has moved into an advisory and consulting role, encouraging and supporting Jennifer who has assumed

“Countless people who come through our door I consider to be more than a customer or employee. It has been a privilege to serve our community and something I look forward to for many years to come." – Kevin Murphy Showcasing Your Community's Personality

I have enjoyed working for the Murphys because they treat you like family and not a number on a time card.” John Yonkosky, Sales Manager

Buck Murphy’s children at an art exhibit of their great grandmother’s work. From left, Katie Murphy Orrel, Ellen Murphy Smith, Mike Murphy, Ros Murphy, Susan Murphy Carson.

In response to the recent hurricane the fruits of a well-managed and smoothly operating business were evident. With no power and some structural damage, one day after Hurricane Matthew, Murphy’s was open, with all employees present and some of their spouses to pitch in, to serve customers’ repair needs.

"I love working at Murphy's. My co-workers are family, and we have the best customers." - Debbie Priester 54

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“Murphy’s is a home for our family, as much as any house is. That family doesn’t stop with my grandfather, father, and brother… it is our employees and many of our customers who are a part of our lives.” – Jennifer Murphy Reeder

Buck Murphy with Barney Brannen (center), and Ros at Barney's retirement dinner, in 1996, after fifty years of employment with Murphy Builder's Supply. Barney joined Murphy's six months after it opened.

the day-to-day operation of the store. Jennifer remembers, "When I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher. But when I became older I appreciated the importance of family and the way Murphy’s is a home for our family, as much as any house is. That family doesn’t stop with my grandfather, father, and brother… it is our employees and many of our customers who are a part of our lives.” Kevin Murphy began full-time work in 1999. "I have many memories of growing up at Murphy's. Countless people who come through our door I consider to be more than a customer or employee. It has been a privilege to serve our community and something I look forward to for many years to come," he said. Jennifer adds, "Circumstances moved me into greater responsibility quicker than I had imagined. My saving grace has been

Photo 5: Buck Murphy with Jennifer, Kevin, and Ros when Buck Murphy was named “Business Leader of the Year” by the Wayne Chamber of Commerce in 2008.

my loyal, imaginative, "can-do" brother. We're like two hands working together.” Kevin’s children, Noah and Emma, ages ten and eight respectively, are in and out of the store, stopping to help where they can, as did Jennifer’s son, Luke, who also was a full-time employee. It is not far-fetched to see a time when the next generation will take over. A lot has changed since Buck Murphy opened his business 70 years ago when his suppliers would do his ordering for him with hand written tickets. Some things haven’t changed – it’s still a family run business with the same commitment to courteous and knowledgeable service. Confucius said, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Ros, Jennifer, Kevin, and a host of their extended family-employees, past and present, would give a whole-hearted “Amen!”

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

A R T I C L E - FA I T H

Enormous Faith Slight Confidence Leads To

BY CHRISINE PAUL

atching an infant begin his first steps pulls at parts of our hearts that some of us didn’t realize were there. The process starts slowly. It begins to speed up as the child gains confidence in knowing that although he may fall, he has reached a level of mobility that will allow him to explore his surroundings from a new perspective. As the child ventures into this new means of mobility, he begins to have faith that his travels will become more exciting. He may not know if his next step will lead him to his destination or if he will be detained because of some bump in the road that causes a fall. However, looking back on the successfulness of his previous steps, the child seizes the opportunity to move forward, thus continues the journey. This is just a mere illustration, but it can provide us with a gigantic outlook on every aspect of our lives, if we will look back on our past detours and successes, our “baby steps”.

Faith has been defined as the belief in something unseen, but trusting the outcome based on prior experiences. We have all encountered unpleasantness during our walk through life. It becomes our choice whether we want to stay slightly confident and just merely continue our path or step out on our enormous belief of faith and leap into a journey that is all peaceful, all comforting, all knowing, and all because of our Loving God. James 2:17 says, “In the same way, faith by itself, if not accom-

Wayne County Magazine

panied by action, is dead.” Just as a baby has to move to make his first steps successful, we have to conquer life’s bypasses having the faith that they are only temporary. We must move forward into a closer relationship with our Father. When we do this, we will begin to see that God is pulling us into His direction, His will for our lives. His itinerary may not be what we expect, but it is what He sees as good and will glorify His name. He will draw us into His unseen, yet very much felt, presence. Our faith in His promises will become clearer when we begin to act according to His word. He will start to reveal His presence, on the road we are traveling, in ways that seem unimaginable to someone who only has a slight confidence in Him. He will show Himself through other believers and through His word. However, God wants our enormous faith in Him as our tour guide through life.. We may miss some of His goodness, during a wrong turn, if we aren’t completely in tune with the navigation plan He has prepared for us. God has already mapped out our lives. He knows every bump in the road, every detour, as well as, our final destination. He promises to be with us through all of them if we have faith in Him. He promises a final destination with no more sorrow, no more sin and total rest in His presence. What could be holding us back from taking an enormous leap of faith and traveling this unpaved road with our Savior walking right beside us?

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T.Y. graduated from Wayne County High in 2011, and now he finds himself in the NFL playing for the Indianapolis Colts. He encourages others to pursue their dreams, and he says that hard work is the only way to get what you want.

Wayne County Magazine

Tre Jackson, a 2011 graduate of Wayne County High School, is in his second season with the New England Patriots and is a force to be reckoned with.

T.Y. McGill and Tre Jackson both got their start in Jesup and now play football professionally

Story by Kara B. Jackson | Photography by New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

This embodies the mantra taken up by

two Wayne County natives, Tre Jackson and T.Y. McGill, Jr. Each of these players got their start in Jesup, and each of them now finds himself playing professionally. A 2011 Wayne County High graduate, Tre Jackson began playing football at the age of four with his recreation team, the Colts, in flag football. He excelled during his high school days and received a scholarship to Florida State University, where he continued his football career. He graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in business management, and immediately started what he describes as “the long, exciting period” of going from college to the draft. “Right after my last college game, I flew out to Arizona to train with LeCharles Bentley at OLP for the combine,” said Tre. “I was lucky to be one of the chosen few selected to go out to perform at the combine in Indianapolis. After the combine, I flew back out to Arizona to continue training until the draft.” I flew home for the draft and had a draft party with my family,” says Tre with excitement. “I was honored to be drafted by the New England Patriots!” Tre says there is a big difference between college and professional ball; “The biggest difference to me was time management. You don’t have classes and study hall from college anymore, so you have a lot of time on your hands, so you have to manage your time wisely enough for workouts, practice, film study, rest and family time.” For Tre, the best part of professional football is achieving his dreams: “The best part for me is having the chance to finally do what you’ve dreamed of doing since you were able to run on your own; this has been my dream forever, and I’m finally living it now.”

Wayne County Magazine

Tre already has plans, though, for his future post-professional career. “After my career with football, I want to go back to my hometown and start a coaching career – there where everything began.” Hoping to raise up future football stars, he says, “Always follow your dreams. Anything is possible once your head and heart are both into it, and don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do. One of my favorite quotes is ‘If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run, then walk; if you can’t walk, then crawl; but do whatever you must, to keep moving forward.’ which is attributed to Martin Luther King, Jr.” T.Y. McGill, Jr., the son of Tyrone McGill and Dilecia Easley, is also a 2011 graduate of Wayne County High. He, too, got his start playing rec ball in Wayne County, and he and Tre played together for many of their early years. T.Y. now plays professional football for the Indianapolis Colts, and gets to wear the Colts jersey that he donned so many years ago. When T.Y. graduated high school, he went to North Carolina State for four years, where he played defensive tackle. He pursued his bachelor’s degree in sports management, and when he graduated there, he was called up to the NFL.

Tre Jackson and T.Y. McGill, both standing on the back row of this team photo, began playing recreational football under Coach Bo Jackson’s leadership, played together all through their younger years, and now both play football for the NFL.

Tre Jackson (63) protecting New England Patriot’s star quarterback, Tom Brady. Tre cites Philippians 4:13 as his mantra and inspiration. “I haven’t played a game since as long as I can remember without taking a knee in the corner of the end zone before every game and reciting this verse to myself.”

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

T.Y. McGill, Jr. is an unstoppable force for the Indianapolis Colts, and he got his start playing recreational ball in Wayne County. He started out wearing Colts blue and jersey 99, and he is proud to wear that same number for the Indianapolis Colts today.

Wayne County Magazine

He went undrafted in 2015-16, and was picked up by the Seattle Seahawks for a three-day tryout; they liked his playing style and kept him for the preseason in Seattle. The morning after preseason ended, he got a very special phone call: “I got the call from Indianapolis, basically calling to say they had picked me up off waivers on rosters,” says T.Y. He began playing for the Colts as number 67 and had an incredible year. “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the NFL, and to be here is just truly a surreal moment,” explains T.Y. The excitement continued into his second year when he got to change to jersey number 99, the same number he wore during his little league games in Wayne County. He explained his jersey choice in a recent Facebook post: “Why 99? On the numerical roster you’ll find me at the bottom, a reminder of where my journey started, but when you take that number for it’s numerical worth 99 becomes the most valuable. Wearing 99 on my chest encourages me to fulfill that role and become the most valuable player on the field. We all strive

for perfection, that 100% fulfillment, and that 99 reminds me each and every day how close to perfection I can get, and how my hard work and dedication have now put that goal within reach giving me even greater motivation to make this season great and thrive at 99. It’s go time!” T.Y. strives every day to be his best and encourages others to do the same. “I take every day as a blessing and work hard to better myself. Some people think that being from a small town defines how well you play, but it doesn’t; how hard you work to be the best man you can determines that.” T.Y. plans to continue playing as long as he can, and then has plans to go to graduate school so he can get a graduate degree and teach at the high school and college level. To future athletes he offers this advice: “Never quit. Give 100%. Work hard every day, and have the ‘first man in the building, last man out of the building’ mentality, and you’ll go as far as you want.”

Tre Jackson (54) and T.Y. McGill (9), both graduates of Wayne County High School are now both professional football players in the NFL.

Photography by Jeff Griffith, Old Goats Photography

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Wayne County Magazine

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The tragedy that inspired ..

S A YOUNG BOY, Toby Cameron never thought about what he wanted to be when he grew up. He just wanted to play in the woods and ride his bike. The son of Dan Sr. and Freddie “Rocky” Cameron, Toby was the

youngest of their four children. His two brothers, Dan Jr. and Jim, were a good bit older than him. His sister, Kathleen, was eight years older than Toby and was her little brother’s hero. They were as close as siblings could be.

Everything Happens for a Reason Story by Candee Harris Photography Provided by Toby Cameron and Mattie Genaux

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........ Toby

Cameron

Toby Cameron proudly wore his uniform during his 30 years of service as a Georgia State Trooper. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

UT ON THE CRISP

fall night of October 17, 1975, all of that was forever changed. 12-year-old Toby and his friend Ken asked Kathy to take them to a Wayne County High School football game. But first Ken had to get permission to go. They headed off on their motorcycles for the two-mile trek to Ken’s house. After talking to his mom, they started back but decided, at the last minute, to take a different route through some back roads. Meanwhile, Kathy became tired of waiting and left without them. After discovering she had already gone, they headed back to Ken’s house and asked his mother to drive them to the game. Driving down 169 toward Jesup, they were routed around a car accident as they neared Spring Grove Road. As Toby stared at the demolition, he saw what looked like his sister’s car, but didn’t want to think such a terrible thought and let it go. Later, at the football game, he was approached by a friend who told him his sister died in that car accident. It was a terrible way to learn of the tragedy, and the nightmare became even more tragic once the family learned she’d been killed by a drunk driver. Hers was an entirely senseless, unnecessary death.

Kathy Cameron, Toby’s older sister, was senselessly killed by a drunk driver; upon hearing of her death, Toby decided that he would forever pursue those driving under the influence. Young Toby Cameron had no idea what career he wanted to pursue, until, at age 12, his sister was killed by a drunk driver. That inspired him to become a Georgia State Patrolman and keep the streets safe. 68

Wayne County Magazine

However, the tragedy of that night soon sparked a desire in Toby, and he made a promise to Kathy. His mission in life from then on was to become a state trooper so he could keep Georgia highways safe from drivers like the one who took his sister. Toby never wavered in his resolve. After high school in 1983, he applied with the Georgia State Patrol. On January 15, 1985, Toby accepted a job offer from GSP as a radio dispatcher, one of the preliminary positions to gain the experience required to apply to become a trooper. Four years later he applied for and was accepted to the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Trooper School. After graduating, Toby was assigned to the GSP’s post in Savannah, traveling I-95 in Chatham and connecting counties. He was finally fulfilling his promise to Kathy.

“Maybe,” he thought, “things happened for a reason. Maybe Kathy’s death won’t be in vain if I can save the lives of others.” Toby developed his approach with people he stopped early on: “I let people decide how they want to be treated.” Respect is returned with respect, a smile with a smile. He also let his superiors know why he became a trooper and often took special assignments that helped him fulfill the promise he had made so many years before. In 1997, GSP Captain Christopher Prine assigned him to a six-man Interstate Drug Interdiction team to combat drug traffic coming into Georgia. During their first year assignment, they were responsible for the seizure of approximately $6,000,000 in cash as well as numerous drug arrests. For their service, professionalism and outstanding work ethic during this prestigious assignment, Captain Prine nominated the team for the Police Officers Association of Georgia’s Police Officer of the Year for Meritorious Service Award, which they were indeed awarded. Their nomination put them on the cover of Georgia Peace Officer Magazine in March of 1999. They were also presented with resolutions by the Georgia House of Representatives and the Georgia State Senate for their service and nomination of the award. In 2001, a special assignment led him to work for the Drug Enforcement Administration. In preparation, he attended the FBI Academy at Quantico, Virginia, where he completed federal law enforcement classes and received certification in drug identification. Then, he became a DEA task force agent, where he worked both in Georgia and out of state for three years while being paid by Georgia State Patrol. He later worked on a DUI Task Force to crack down on drunk drivers in the Southeast Georgia area, netting over 50 arrests in 2007. For his efforts, MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his

In 1997, GSP Captain Christopher Prine assigned Toby to a six-man Interstate Drug Interdiction team to combat drug traffic coming into Georgia. During their one-year assignment, they were responsible for the seizure of approximately $6,000,000 in cash as well as numerous drug arrests. Their outstanding work landed Toby on the cover of Georgia Peace Officer Magazine. During his years of service as a Georgia State Patrolman, Toby Cameron became highly decorated and awarded. Here, he is awarded Officer of the Year for the state of Georgia in 1998. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

“outstanding commitment to highway safety in Georgia”.

As a result of his hard work and dedication to keeping Georgia’s highways safe, Toby has also been the recipient of several other awards and commendations. In 1998, he was awarded Officer of the Year for the State of Georgia for his work on the drug interdiction team. As of today, Toby is the only officer from Wayne County ever to receive this state level accolade.

Toby Cameron still devotes his life to keeping the streets safe, even after retiring from the GSP. Now, he works in local law enforcement and is trying his hand at politics in our region.

After his sister was killed by a drunk driver, Toby made it his lifelong pursuit to keep the streets safe for others. He never faltered from this vision, even until his retirement in 2013 from the Georgia State Patrol, when he began working in local law inforcement. 70

Wayne County Magazine

In 2007, he was recognized with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Core Values Excellence for his professionalism in the line of duty while responding to a call which critically injured a fellow trooper in a wreck on I-95 in Glynn County. One of Toby’s proudest accomplishments, though, came in 2011 when he achieved the most DUI arrests during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday in the entire state of Georgia. After all, that WAS the reason he became a trooper! Apparently, law enforcement careers run in this family. Toby’s wife, Patti Strickland Cameron, has also worked for Georgia State Patrol for 23 years. She is a senior dispatcher in the Brunswick office. And his son Turner works as a dispatcher in GSP’s Statesboro office. He hopes to attend trooper school in the future. After retiring from Georgia State Patrol in 2013, Toby began working in local law enforcement. As a Blackshear City Police Officer, one of his routine traffic stops netted approximately $10,000 in illegal drugs and the arrest of two men headed to Wayne County with the contraband.

Toby will never forget the night his sister died or the reason he became a state trooper. And although he will never understand why Kathy died so young, he still believes that everything really does happen for a reason.

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Bessie Griffin Surrency

The Wayne County Business and Professional Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club funds the Bessie G. Surrency Scholarship to deserving young women entering the medical field

he Bessie G. Surrency Medical Scholarship was originally known as the Bessie G. Surrency Nursing Scholarship, and it began in honor of Mrs. Bessie G. Surrency at the request of Wayne Memorial Hospital to start a nursing scholarship. Her family gave permission to the hospital to start the scholarship. Mrs. Surrency was the President of the Hospital Auxillary at the time of her death on June 11, 1962.

Story by Libby Madray

Bessie Griffin Surrency at around 18 years old.

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The scholarship which bears Mrs. Bessie Surrency’s name has gone through many changes since 1962. The amounts have increased along with the number of recipients receiving the scholarships each year.

g e L The Wayne County Business and Professional Women’s Club officers are (seated-left) Bess Brown, greatgrandaughter of Bessie G. Surrency, and Pat York, (standing-left) Gale Lewis, a granddaughter of Bessie G. Surrency, and Susan Sutton. Photo by Mattie Genaux Photography.

This year the club awarded five $1,500 scholarships to (from left) Carlin Collins, Lexi Beaver, Kaitlyn Boyette, Ashley Stevenson, and Darria Deloach. The presentation was made by Terri Lynn Surrency, a granddaughter of Bessie G. Surrency.

The first recipients of the $75 memorial scholarship were required to promise to work their first year of nursing at Wayne Memorial Hospital. This is no longer the case, and the multiple awards given extend to any field of medicine.

Bessie Griffin came to Wayne County in 1920. She was a home demonstrator going into the rural areas of Wayne County teaching the mothers how to can their fruits and vegetables. She would go door to door demonstrating how to use a pressure cooker to preserve their bounty in jars and cans. There wasn’t any way to freeze food in those days. She would also show the mothers how to make items such as mayonnaise and cottage cheese. She, herself, was a fantastic cook.

She met and married Terrell B. Surrency in 1921. Bessie and Terrell had six children, three girls, and three boys. Each one was educated in the Wayne County school system and graduated from high school. This was a proud accomplishment for the family in the early parts of the 20th century. All six of Mrs. Bessie’s children served in World War II. The boys served in various branches of the military while all three girls worked in Brunswick, Georgia as welders at J.A. Jones. They all returned to Wayne County after the war and built lives here

Wayne County Magazine

in various capacities. The three boys all worked at Rayonier along with one sister: Frank Surrency, Griffin Surrency, Tyler Surrency and Lauree Surrency Hires. Carobeth Surrency Highsmith would find her passion in being a waitress to Wayne County at The Georgia Pig, The Kiwi and retired from Sybil’s at the age of eighty. Nanelle Surrency Bacon became an educator and taught in Wayne County school system for 35 years. All of her children were members of Altamaha Baptist Church. The scholarship which bears Mrs. Bessie Surrency’s name has gone through many changes since 1962. The amounts have increased along with the number of recipients receiving the scholarships each year. The Wayne County Business and Professional Women’s Club is now the torchbearer for the scholarship. The Wayne County Business and Professional Women’s

y c a g In 2016, the Wayne County Profissional and Business Women’s Club gave away five $1,500 scholarships. A long way from that first scholarship in 1962 of just $75.

The six children of Bessie Griffin Surrency: Carabeth, Lauree, Nanell, Frank, Tyler, and Griffin.

Members of the Wayne County Professional and Business Women’s Club coordinate a cake sale at the Dogwood Festival to raise money for the scholarships and other service projects. (from left) Shani Hires, Whitney Hires, Rita Copeland, Shelia Mingledorf, Alma Wade, Karen Roberts, Jessica Roberts, Susan Sutton, Gale Lewis.

Club meets the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Sybil’s Family Restaurant to educate themselves on the interests of women in business. The officers of the Business and Professional Women’s Club for this year are Gale Lewis, President; Pat York, Vice-President; Susan Sutton, Treasurer; and Bess Brown, Secretary.

In retrospect, the scholarship is housed now by an appropriate group. Mrs. Bessie Surrency was a unique woman in the 1920’s working for a county and educating women on the proper way to store food for their families. The Business and Professional Women’s Club is not much different in these modern times when women are still working and educating themselves and other women. The Club raises funds for the scholarships by coordinating an annual yard sale, hosting a booth at the Dogwood Festival selling cakes, pies, and candies, and through memorials,

their biggest fundraiser, where people purchase a memorial in honor of a loved one. The memorials are nice because it is a gift that will keep giving for a lifetime through a recipient of the award and their education.

The members of the Club have a wonderful time sharing together and touching lives through the scholarship aiding young people on their journey into the various fields of medicine. This year the Club gave away five $1,500 scholarships! A long way from that first scholarship in 1962 of just $75. The awards themselves were presented by Mrs. Bessie Surrency’s granddaughter, Terri Lynn Surrency. A fitting tribute to a lady whose legacy lives on through her contributions to community and family.

Bessie Griffin Surrency’s love of helping families continues to this day. She would be very proud of her family, and the Wayne County Business and Professional Women’s Club who honors her memory with hard work and dedication to the future through education.

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Wayne County Magazine

WAYNE FAMILY FITNESS CENTER A premier tness and training club with a strong commitment towards personalized service and individual attention for those seeking to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

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Jesup’s First Bank Has A

Story by Kara B. Jackson | Photography by John Riddle and provided by Ronda Stipe

American National Bank employees hold reunion The first bank established in Jesup was called the Merchants and Farmers Bank located on West Broad Street, when it opened on October 1, 1891. It remained so until the early 1920’s.

When the Brunswick Bank and Trust Company Established the Jesup branch, this was the building it moved into, and occupied from 1921 to 1951. It is now a florist shop.

Wayne County Magazine

If you happened to stroll down the streets of Jesup during that era, you would have experienced a very different Jesup. America was in a post-war depression, but the Brunswick Bank and Trust Company was in a relatively stable position. In 1923, it acquired the Merchants and Farmers Bank in Jesup, and for many years, it remained the only bank in the city. Later, in 1944, it became a national bank, and the name changed to American National Bank (ANB).

Dot Cowart was delighted to have an opportunity to work at the bank when she was approached and hired in 1949. George Parrish was the senior vice president at the time, and she remembers him fondly: “He was a very friendly man, but everything about him was professional. He cared for his employees and his customers, and it showed.” Larger space was needed, so they moved to the corner of Cherry Street and West Broad Street in 1950, the place where Café Euro now sits. Employees from that time recount stories of doing nearly everything by hand. “Practically all deposits were written up by tellers at their windows when the customers came in,” remembered retired ANB employee Dot Cowart.

This group of former employees came out for a reunion in February of the American National Bank, Jesup’s first bank. “We were more than just co-workers,” said former teller Ronda Stipe. “We really were a family.”

We really were a

In 1959, Jesup Branch employees gathered for a group photo. At the front left is Dot Cowart, who recently organized a reunion of the American National Bank employees. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Completed in 1966, the brand new building housing the American National Bank was “a Wayne County showplace and a source of community pride”.

The building quickly became a Wayne County showplace and was a source of

After needing even more room, the bank moved a few doors down Cherry Street in 1951, to the building that is now Vision Source: Family Eye Care. The economy was booming up through the 1960’s, and Jesup was growing steadily, thanks in great part to the expansion of Rayonier which quickly became the town’s largest employer. Again the bank grew, and this growth warranted another change of venue. The site selected for the new building was up the street on the corner of Cherry and Macon Street, where the old RitchLeaphart Hospital once stood. Demolition of the former building began in March 1965, and on the morning of May 6, 1966, the American National Bank was opened for business. “The building quickly became a Wayne County showplace and was a source of community pride,” said retired employee Ronda Stipe. “There were many, many happy memories made in that bank,” said 93-year-old Dot Cowart. “We were more than 80

Wayne County Magazine

just employees; we were family!” The ANB ‘family’ got together for a reunion this year to talk about all of those good times. Employees from several decades and generations came together at Captain Joe’s for the reunion, organized largely in part by Dot Cowart and Ronda Stipe. Dot was 26 years old when she was hired by the bank and worked there until she retired, 36 years later. Ronda began working there in 1965 and retired in 2005, after 32 years. Many other Jesup natives worked at ANB in its many years of operation, including managers P.Q. Collins, George Parrish, Bill Seiffert, Carey Brannen, Lonnie P. O’Quinn, Linton Lewis, Len Hauss, and Dell Keith. After more than a century of business, the American National Bank left a legacy that continues to live on in the hearts of its employees.

the American National Bank

Above: Ronda Stipe, left, and Dot Cowart pause for a picture at the American National Bank reunion that they helped organize in February. At 93 years old, Dot is one of the oldest living employees of the bank. Right: Dot Cowart was all smiles at the grand opening of the new building in 1966. She still has a beautiful smile, glasses, and curls, but she was all too thrilled to lose the business suit. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Under the Gold Dome BUDGET

It was a busy 2016 legislative session which concluded on March 24. I enjoyed seeing many of you at the state capitol and I remain grateful for the constant communication with my constituents in the district. I encourage you to continue reaching out to me throughout the year. STATE REPRESENTATIVE

CHAD NIMMER

R-District 178 Brantley, Pierce, and parts of Appling and Wayne counties.

Chad.nimmer@house.ga.gov 912-288-7181 or 404-651-7737

Some of the items included in the 2017 fiscal year budget that I feel will be beneficial to Wayne County and our region are: $393.5M: New funds dedicated to K-12 Education; $200,000: For the rural dentistry loan repayment program; $387,407: For add-on payments to medical providers for newborn deliveries in rural counties; 3% Pay Increase: For all state employees

or critical access hospitals. Maximum limits apply.

and teachers, lunchroom workers, school nurses, and school bus drivers.

EDUCATION

TRANSPORTATION

Local Maintenance and Improvement Grants received $41M in increased funding through the Georgia DOT for local governments made possible by HB 170 which adds about 30% more in funding for local transportation projects.

ENVIRONMENTAL

In response to the coal ash situation in Wayne County, House Bill 1028 requires the Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural Resources to give notice to local governments if there is an issue with the containment of hazardous waste.

HEALTHCARE

Rural Hospitals Senate Bill 258 creates an income tax credit for contributions made by individuals and corporations to rural

There are several bills positively affecting education. HB 959 eliminates duplicate End-ofCourse Tests for students participating in dual-enrollment programs. Senate Bill 329 expands the HOPE scholarship to more students. House Bill 739 allows parents to review any instructional material used in their child’s classroom. And, Senate Bill 364 decreases the way standardized test scores and classroom observations affect a teacher’s performance evaluation and lowers the number of required classroom observations for teachers with at least three years of experience who have received exemplary ratings.

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Abby’s beauty and unique personality shine – on and off the dance floor.

Wayne County Magazine

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

So You Think You Can

Dance?

ABBY POTTS KNOWS SHE CAN! STORY BY KARA B. JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Some children are still learning the art of walking at three years old, but Abby Potts took her first dance class at that age, and it has been her passion ever since.

Abby, now a 16-year-old junior at Wayne County High, enrolled in dance at Young Attitudes Dance Center (YADC) at age three. In addition to her dance, Abby was a gymnast for four years, played softball during 5th grade, played tennis in 6th and 7th grade, and became a cheerleader in 6th and 7th grade – all while continuing dance classes at YADC. In 8th grade, she decided to leave cheer when Angie Young, the owner of YADC, asked her to work for her at the studio. "I helped with ‘my babies,' which are now practically my little sisters, for a year before I moved up to high school as a freshman," said Abby. Abby dances in multiple genres: ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, modern, and her favorite, hip hop. This year is her first year driving over and dancing for Jessica Dominey School of Dance

in Brunswick in addition to classes at YADC. Her dance schedule is dizzying and extensive, but Abby handles it with grace and ease: "At YADC I take or help with three ballet classes, one jazz, one tap, and one contemporary class on Mondays. On Tuesdays, I drive over to Jessica Dominey’s to take one jazz class, one modern class, and one ballet class. On Wednesdays, I start working at 4:00 with children ages 3-6. On Fridays, I coteach three tumbling classes at YADC." Hip hop, Abby's true passion, is not a class offered around here. "I've been coached in hip hop through 3-4 day workshops in the summer, but I've also worked independently on my hip hop style by watching other dancers online and practicing on my own," said Abby. "I've also been privileged to have hip hop routines Showcasing Your Community's Personality

choreographed by Lexi Jarnigan.” Abby even choreographs hip hop pieces for other dancers for talent shows, duets, solos or whatever the occasion. Abby got the chance to shine through hip-hop this summer. "My dance studio happened to go to the Inspire competition in Savannah, where I was competing with my solo, and competed for a chance to win one of five scholarships to The Hollywood Summer Tour in California." Abby was chosen as one of the top solos and received a partial scholarship.

Abby traveled to California on the Hollywood Summer Tour after being named a top soloist in Savannah. During the tour, she got to experience many incredible things that most dancers only dream of.

Abby stands with world-famous dance choreographer G-Madison, who she describes as “insanely wellknown.” She says that she was so excited to meet and take a hip hop class from him.

Wayne County Magazine

"While in California, I got to do so many amazing things!" she proclaimed. "I got to attend a live taping of ‘So You Think You Can Dance.' We visited top-of-the-line dance studios like Abby Lee Dance Company, IDA, Nappytabs, Millennium Dance Complex, The Penthouse of NoHo, Athletic Garage, Edge Performing Arts Center and the Basement Dance Center of NoHo, and Evolution Dance Studio.” She also attended National Dance Day on July 30, where she was chosen by Adam Sevani, a professional dancer, to get on stage and dance with him and other major dancers – Mackenzie Zeigler, JoJo Siwa, and Chris Scott. “I met so many people that are major players in the dance business; it was insane!” said Abby, excitedly. “These are some of the biggest names in the dance business and I got to meet them. I took a class from G Madison, Tina Landon, Kenya Clay, Jersey, Justine Menter, Ed Moore, Cati Jean, Bobbi Amamizu, Ricky Palomino, Terri Best, and Ian Eastwood.” Abby considers this an invaluable experience that has truly changed her life. “I met lifelong friends that share my passion and will accomplish amazing things thanks to this opportunity. I am thankful for the judges at Inspire, who looked at me and saw the talent and love for dance that I have. I am thankful for Lexi Jernigan and the amazing dance she choreographed, to Menina Fortunato for her words of wisdom and amazing program, Sheldon Robins for allowing me to be in his music video, my Nana Nancy Jones and mother Misty Juarbe for always being supportive and coming to all of my events, and to Mrs. Angie Young, who was the start of it all. I will forever be grateful for the young lady that each of you helped to shape and for the dancer that you've built in me."

JaJe’s Hand poured Italian cream sodas and gourmet desserts & specialty coffees.

Open for lunch and dinner Private Parties available

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106 E. Cherry Street • Jesup, GA 31546

Thank you Wayne County for making our dreams a reality!" Cataract Surgery • Laser Surgery Retina Treatments • Cosmetic Glasses • Contacts

(912) 559-2467 Crandalleye.com

136 W. Cherry Street Jesup, GA 31545

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Martin Weathers is the new executive director for the Boys & Girls Club in Wayne County. He says he is excited about working with an organization that "is helping shape the future leaders of Wayne County."

Martin Weathers, Growing the Boys and Girls Club Story by Kara B. Jackson | Photography by John F. Riddle

Ralph Waldo Emerson said that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the purpose of life is not to be happy.

It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.â&#x20AC;? Martin Weathers gets the opportunity to live out this purpose every day as the Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of the Altamaha Area. 88

Wayne County Magazine

K I D S & CO M M U N I T Y

Martin was born and raised in Alpharetta, a suburb right outside of Atlanta. After graduating from Alpharetta High School in 2010, he attended Georgia Southern University, where he graduated with a degree in public relations. He is the only child of Bill and Beth Weathers, who he says have "always supported me with every new adventure I tackle." Martin says he was drawn to this club because, “The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Altamaha Area is a safe place for kids, where they can come learn, have fun, and grow." He enjoys the impact the Club has on this community: “This Club is for the community, and every partner, sponsor, volunteer, and the donor should know that no matter what they give or how they give, they are impacting the life of a child in a positive way.” Before taking on his role as the director of the Club, Martin’s only experience with Boys and Girls Club was through volunteering with his church, donating time and services to the clubs in Atlanta. He quickly fell in love with Jesup’s Club, though. “Hands down my favorite part of the BGC of the Altamaha Area are the members!” He explains. “I have built relationships with almost every child and am trying my absolute best to have every child on a first-name basis. At the end of the day when I go home to my fiancé, I always have a funny story to tell her. Through all the work, phone calls, paperwork, when it all seems overwhelming, I know I can step outside or walk into a classroom and have all of the children running up to me to say hello. That’s what makes it all worth it!”

Finally, Martin and the staff and volunteers are working to clean up the facilities, from painting rooms to fixing air conditioners. “If we want this Club to expand and grow, it is going to take some help from the community,” says Martin. “We can do everything we can to make sure we are leading our members down the right path, and shaping them for a bright future, but without the community’s help, we won’t get very far. This club belongs to Wayne County, and we need the help of our neighbors to pave the path so that every child can experience the benefits of what the Club offers.” If you would like to keep up to date on what is going on with the Boys and Girls Club in Jesup, follow them on Facebook, or as Martin says: "Come stop by anytime and see how we are growing!"

In his short experience as the director, Martin has already seen vast improvements. "One of the biggest changes we have made here at the club is making this a safe place for members,” he states. “We do not want the members to come here and have to worry if they are going to be bullied or worry about what other members are saying about them. We are working hard to make sure that every kid that comes to the Club feels safe, and at the end of the day have fun like every child should.” Directing a Club that so directly shapes the future leaders of Wayne County requires a lot of vision, and Martin has big plans for the future of the Club: “We have many short term and long term goals for the future of this organization. In the short term, we are working hard to finish the new library and technology room so the members will be able to utilize them before the end of the school year. When the children come here, we want them to feel like they are coming to a Club and not coming to school.” Another goal Martin has is to gain more members. He hopes to have around 150-200 members enrolled and attending the Club each day. Currently, the Club serves around 100 members a day. “Long term we would like to expand our community garden so we can maximize the number of crops we grow as well as the variety of different we can introduce to the members. The community garden has been a fantastic project for the club, and more and more club members are getting involved to help the garden grow to its full potential,” says Martin, excitedly.

Martin’s favorite part of working at the Boys & Girls Club is working with the kids. “Hands down, my favorite part is the members! I have built relationships with almost every child and am trying my absolute best to have every child on a first-name basis.”

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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Wayne County Magazine

CO M M U N I T Y

Christy Carter New Executive Director of Wayne County Chamber of Commerce

Christy Carter wears many hats: she has been a business-owner, dancer, horse lover, wife, step-mother, and now Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce.

Story by Kara B. Jackson | Photography by Kara B. Jackson

Shakespeare said, "All the world's a stage, and all men and women

merely players." Christy Carter, the new Executive Director of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, says that she has embraced that the world is her stage.

Christy was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, but moved to Brunswick and spent most of her childhood there. She graduated from Glynn Academy in 1983, and attended Brunswick Junior College, going on to receive her master’s degree in ballet and musical arts from Western Kentucky University. She laughs about being extensively trained in dance, and that – while it seems like dance wouldn’t relate to the business world – it helped prepare her in every way. Christy moved back to Brunswick and taught dance for 18 years. In 2000, she decided to open a studio of her own. She gained valuable experience as she researched location, funding sources, and many other important decisions business owners face. She wanted to open her studio in the same location as the first dance studio in Glynn County, but that building was occupied. So, she opened a few blocks away in an old taxi-cab building located in

the heart of downtown. Christy's creativity brought the studio to life. "It still had a garage door in it from the cab company," remembers Christy. "I made an opening storefront display out of that garage door, and when storms came through, I could just pull the garage door down, and the door protected the display." Christy says it was her love of small businesses that drew her to downtown, "I love downtown and the historic area, and I have a heart for small businesses." She worked with a local bank, Coastal Area District Development Authority, and the city to secure a Small Business Loan and a facade grant. "I am a very frugal person, so I was excited to utilize the grant for the storefront," said Christy. While she ran the studio, Christy was very involved with the Brunswick Chamber. “I believe in being involved in your local Chamber. I've always believed that, and I utilized the Chamber Showcasing Your Community's Personality

members aren't engaged, you don't get as good attendance at events and participation in programs, so I focused on that,” she said. Her efforts paid off with more engagement by members and increased attendance at Chamber events. In fact, the Chamber's main fundraising and networking event raised $20,000 more than ever before in her first year, and the Chamber added an average of 15 new members monthly during her four-year tenure. Eventually, she met and married Ryker Carter, owner of Carter Group Real Estate in Jesup, and commuted to Brunswick for a while before she became Executive Director of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. In her current role, Christy’s plans include growing membership, increasing engagement by members, and raising awareness of the resources offered at the chamber. "We have so many things that can help small businesses if they just tap into our resources," says Christy. "We are an advocate for businesses, and the business voice for our community. People come to our community wanting to know businesses and people that they can trust to do business with, and we can offer them an extensive list.” Christy believes that the Chamber sets the pace of the entire community and that it offers valuable connections: “That’s why I joined the Chamber when I was a small business-owner, and that is why I’m passionate about connecting people now.”

Christy isn’t all business all the time; she describes herself as adventurous and enjoys riding her horse, Scarlett as often as possible.

when I owned the studio.” After six years, Christy sold the business and moved to Atlanta. She began working at United Community Bank in West Georgia. She also worked closely with the Chambers in that area, learning more and more about business and leadership.

When Christy is not busy at the Chamber or representing our community at events and functions, she is busy teaching Zumba and Pound at Velocity, riding her "horse babies," or spending time with her husband and four beautiful step-daughters. Whatever she undertakes, it is evident that Christy welcomes the adventures that come her way and fully embraces the world as her stage.

Welcoming members to the Chamber is a vital and exciting part of the job for Christy. Pictured below, she talks with Chamber member Pat Sullivan of Southern Charm & Elegance boutique, located near K-Mart.

Eventually, she began to miss the coastal region and decided to move back "where the live oaks grow." Her previous volunteer work with the Chamber and Convention and Visitors Bureau in Brunswick helped her land a job at the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Membership Services. “I had served as chair of the CVB’s Tourism-Industry Committee (CVB) and had been very involved with the Chamber too. I knew the leaders and thought I could help make a difference for other small businesses who need the Chamber to thrive,” Christy explained. In that role, she focused on increased communications. "When 92

Wayne County Magazine

Dr. Headley is a board-certified Family Physician and has served patients and their families in Wayne County since 2002. He would like to introduce Pate Chester, APRN-FNP to our team. She earned her master’s degree in Nursing from South University in Savannah. She is board certified with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Pate brings four years of critical care nursing experience to Headley Family Medicine. She will be working with Dr. Headley in diagnosing and treating acute illnesses and managing chronic illnesses, providing health screening and provide counselling to prevent illnesses before they develop.

912-427-7400 Check us out on Facebook or visit our website at www.jesupdoctor.com

825 S. 1st Street • Jesup, GA 31545

Protecting and Enhancing The Environment Throughout time, people have used land and natural resources to improve and enrich human life. Farmers extract nutrients from the land to grow food, and then they restore the land for future use. Likewise, Chemours extracts minerals and then returns the land to its pre-mining state while protecting and enhancing the environment. We are proud to be a part of Wayne County.

Chemours.com

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Even though she began swimming competitively only a short time ago, Kylie Valosen has quickly excelled in the water.

Kylie Valosen: Dreaming Big and Diving Deep STORY BY KARA B. JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY VALOSEN FAMILY

Wayne County Magazine

SPORTS

Four-Time State Champion…All-Star

Swimmer…Eastern United States Qualifier…all of these accolades sound like they might be attributed to an Olympic swimmer such as Michael Phelps or Katie Ledecky – and they might – but they also belong to 10-year-old Wayne County swimmer, Kylie Valosen.

Kylie, the daughter of Dr. Matt and Cindy Valosen, is in the 5th grade at Solid Rock Christian Academy. Up until three years ago, she had never competed in swimming. Not that she didn’t love the water; the opposite is true: Kylie adored the water from the very first time she entered a pool. “We knew at three years old that she was different,” describes her parents. “Most kids would toe the water first, but not Kylie! She went right under the water and spent more time there than she did above it! She has been that way ever since.” At age eight, Kylie began swimming competitively, and her parents quickly realized this was the perfect sport for her. After only two months of swimming, Kylie placed 3rd and 5th in the 50yard Freestyle and 25-yard Butterfly, respectively, at her very first GRPA State Swim Meet. She even taught herself a flip turn the day before the meet. “We were hooked!” explained her parents. “From there we knew we needed to get Kylie into a year-round swim program.” It wasn’t until a chance meeting with swim coach Anthony Racinelli, who was a patient at Bone and Joint Institute of South Georgia where Dr. Valosen is an orthopaedic surgeon. He introduced the Valosens to the concept of USA Swimming. Kylie and Coach Racinelli began training hard, and the hard work has paid off. In 2015, as the youngest in her age group, Kylie finished 2nd at State in the 25 and 50-yard freestyle. From there, the accomplishments started to pile up (see Sidebar). Kylie’s goals are to get a swimming scholarship to a major university and go to the Olympics, but her family realizes that it takes ‘a village’ to reach those goals. “We would like to give a huge ‘thank you’ to the Wayne County Swim Team Board, the Thomas family and Coach April Poppell for all their efforts to keep the WCST active this summer without having a community pool." According to Kylie’s parents, without the commitment of this group to the team, Kylie would have never been able to achieve becoming a two-time State Champion at the GRPA State Swim Meet this summer. The largest influence on Kylie’s swim career has been her coach, Anthony Racinelli. He has spent countless hours at the pool helping Kylie achieve her swim goals. Kylie’s parents are proud of all her accomplishments, but they are delighted by their daughter’s behavior outside of the pool. Coach April Poppell says "It was an honor to be Kylie's coach during her State win this summer. “Kylie's talent and hard work are going to take her very far in the swimming world and life. Not only does she have the drive, but she also has a humble attitude about all of her achievements. After every swim event, she always tells her opponents ‘great job' and shakes their hand without being told to do so. Other teams notice this and have complimented on her good sportsmanship.” That, above everything else, makes Matt and Cindy most proud.

Kylie became a two-time state champion this summer at the GRPA State Swim Meet. “Kylie has made a name for herself, in just the short amount of time she’s been swimming,” says her coach, Anthony Racinelli. “Be on the look-out for her, because you’ll see great things from her in the future.”

Kylie’s accomplishments include: • 2016 GRPA State Champion in the 25 and 50-yard freestyle • 2x Highpoint Swimmer WCST • 2x David Larson Award • Vidalia Invitational Overall Champion • Waycross YMCA Invitational Overall Champion • Numerous State and Sectional (Eastern United States) Qualifications • Member of the State Champion Freestyle and Medley Relay Team for GCAT (Georgia Coastal Aquatic Team • USA Swimming AAA All-Star Ranking in several events: • 50-meter freestyle • 100-meter freestyle • 50-meter backstroke • Achieving AAAA ranking this summer with her 28.05 time at the GRPA State Meet in the 50-yard Freestyle

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Jesup

City of

GEORGIA

(912) 427-1313 162 E. Cherry Street Jesup, GA 31546 www.jesupga.gov

Seated: Don Darden, Commissioner District 2, Shirlene Armstrong, Commissioner District 1, Mike Deal, City Manager Standing: Nick Harris, Commissioner District 3, David Earle Keith, Mayor, Ray House, Commissioner District 5, Bill Harvey, Commissioner District 6

912-427-5915 • 244 Peachtree Street • Jesup, GA 31545 • waynecountyrecreation.com

Wayne County Magazine

Murphy’s

BUILDER SUPPLY Voted Wayne County’s Favorite Place to Buy Hardware & Building Supplies

There for you during hurricanes and all seasons of life! Murphy’s Builder Supply

Celebrating Our 70th Anniversary

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Highway 341 • Odum, GA 31555 Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Newly published author Melissa Moxley won Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year for her devotional titled For You, My Husband.

For You, My Husband Melissa Moxley wins Book of the Year STORY BY KARA B. JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

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L I T E R AT U R E

The Biblical passage found in Proverbs 31 is the metaphorical bar that

many Christian women find themselves trying to reach, including Wayne County native Melissa Moxley. Like many women, she thought she was doing a decent job of living as a Proverbs 31 woman, until her husband, Wayne, made a sobering statement.

“We were out on a ‘date night,’ laughing and talking, when Wayne quickly changed topics,” Melissa later wrote. “He began telling me about some difficulties within his business and then he looked at me and said, ‘You’re not praying for me like you should.’” Melissa describes being shocked and then slightly offended at that observation, and then “after the initial sting wore off,” she recounted, “I had to be perfectly honest…he was precisely right…I was so busy doing all the things that I thought he wanted of me that I missed the thing that he most needed from me…MY PRAYERS!” This realization led Melissa to begin a very personal commitment to praying to her husband every day for 31 days. She would pray very specific prayers for her husband and send a text to let him know her prayer for that day. Soon her husband came to expect these devotions, and he would text her a reminder if he hadn’t received it yet. The messages became longer and Melissa moved to sending them via email. About the second week into the 31-day challenge, Wayne suggested that Melissa might have the beginnings of her first book. Melissa wrote, “My heart jumped a little inside my chest, not just at the pleasure that he felt my work was good enough to be bound and printed, but because I had already had the smallest stirrings within my spirit that maybe God would use these words to strengthen others.”

In addition to being a published author, Melissa is a six-year veteran writer for Wayne County Magazine, grief counselor to children at Camp Hope, previous Sunday school teacher, and director of a local senior citizens’ ministry. “I want to say a sincere ‘thank you’ to my family, friends, and community for taking the time to go online and vote. It is much more of a testament to the way Wayne County supports its own, than to my book,” said Melissa. “I would love for it to become a best seller, but it means a lot to have someone come up to me and whisper ‘I’ve been reading your book and it has really been helping me. Thank you.’ To know that it makes a difference in a marriage, a family, that means the world to me and just makes me smile.” For You, My Husband can be purchased on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble online.

Thus, her devotional For You, My Husband was published in 2014. In the short time since its release, the book has already been cited as a resource in an online article by Sandra K. Williams, the previous International Women’s Director for the Church of God, used as a tool by Janice Darnell on a mission trip to South Africa to teach pastor’s wives, and won the prestigious Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year. For the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year, Melissa was notified of her nomination last October; she was the only nominee from the state of Georgia, and the voting would be open from February through March. In May she received an email that she had won! Melissa says that this has been a whirlwind journey already, but that the most incredible part is talking to women whose lives have truly been changed through the devotional, regardless of how long they have been married. Kendra Goober Manning, who has been married six months, says that the book “has enriched my life, as well as my husband’s. It has brought us closer together spiritually.” Pam Harris Williams, who has been married for 29 years says, “I love this book! It’s for those struggling in their marriage or for those with an awesome marriage; this book will make a positive difference in ALL marriages!” Showcasing Your Community's Personality

Absorbent Specialists 912-588-2626 www.domtar.com Domtar Personal Care 2075 S. Sunset Blvd. Jesup, GA 31545

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伀眀渀攀爀Ⰰ 刀愀礀䴀漀爀琀漀渀

㄀㌀㈀圀䔀匀吀倀䤀一䔀匀吀刀䔀䔀吀 ∠ 䨀䔀匀唀倀Ⰰ 䜀䄀㌀㄀㔀㐀㔀

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E D U C AT I O N

A Voice

for Students

Local Students Helping Influence Statewide Education STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOHN RIDDLE

ayne County students can’t say that they do not have a voice on matters affecting them on a day-to-day basis anymore. Not with two Wayne County High School students now serving on the State Superintendent of School’s Student Advisory Council. Hannah Wise and Ki Riddle were chosen as two of only 108 students representing grades 7 – 12 from across the state. The students meet with State School Superintendent Richard Woods to discuss the impact of state policies in the classroom, along with other issues related to education. Topics they have discussed include the school dropout rate, student leadership, the Georgia graduation rule, testing, school environment, and career, technical, and agricultural education. “The Student Advisory Council brings together students from across Georgia. These students have a voice at the state level and are able to provide feedback on the classroom-level impact of education policy. It also offers leadership development and service opportunities as members lead service projects to benefit schools and students,” stated Mike Long, State Board of Education Member from Wayne County. Students are chosen for the advisory council at the beginning of each school year through an application process. Members are chosen by a committee of Georgia Department of Education representatives based on the applicant’s response to questions. There is a middle school and a high school advisory council. The groups meet at different times. They attend four meetings, all held in Atlanta at the offices of the State Department of Education, act as liaisons between the Department of Education and the students of Georgia, and participate in service projects.

Hannah Wise and Ki Riddle with State School Superintendent Richard Woods in his office in in the twin towers across from the capitol in Atlanta.

“I like that we talk about real issues and we tell the State Superintendent directly what we like and dislike. We also get to interact with students from across Georgia and compare how our schools are different.” – Ki Riddle

“Meeting with my Student Advisory Council has been, and will continue to be, an invaluable part of my decision-making process,” Superintendent Woods said. “To develop child-focused, classroom-centered policies, we have to hear directly from students. We can only improve their educational experience by bringing them to the table.”

“I enjoy meeting people from all over the state and learning from our different experiences. I like that our ideas as high school students are taken into consideration for changes and impact the educational system across the state.” – Hannah Wise

As members of the Student Advisory Council, Hannah and Ki have visited the State Capitol for a photo with the Governor, participated in meetings in the House of Representatives Chamber, and even skyped with students from Germany to discuss how the two school systems differ.

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Garrett PyE, PT • Beau Brooks • Christie Fosky

SPORT INJURIES BACK & NECK PAIN KNEE & HIP PAIN SHOULDER PAIN NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS ARTHRITIS DIZZINESS/VERTIGO HEADACHEs WORKPLACE INJURIES POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATION Our Physical Therapists are experts in motion who treat patients of all ages with health-related conditions to reduce pain and improve or restore mobility. As highly trained healthcare professionals, our therapists create personal treatment plans that meet the patient’s healthcare and post-operative rehabilitation need We work closely with physicians to return needs. patients to pre-injury levels. Our rehabilitation services keep patients moving forward, so they can return to day-to-day work and recreational activities and remain at their optimal health without further risk of injury (APTA).

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Calvary

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Baptist Church Rev. Vann Dempsey, Pastor Rev. Gary Johnson, Children/Administration Bruce Harris, Director of Music

415 East Cherry Street | Jesup, GA 31546 | 912-427-2366 | www.cbcjessup.org. Sunday: Sunday School 9:15 Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6:00 p,m,

Wednesday: Family Night Supper 5:30 p.m. Awana 6:16 p.m. Youth 6:45 p.m. Adult 7:00 p.m. Choir Practice 6:00 p.m. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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theDISH

Thanksgiving Tableau To Remember BY JAMES FARMER | PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY JAMES FARMER, INC.

wo of my favorite words, thanks and giving, join together to form an absolute favorite word of mine, thanksgiving. Further still, this particular word thus falls into further favor by denoting a most wonderful time of seasonal goodness, family togetherness, traditions and memories – a time of thanks and giving – Thanksgiving proper. And, this time just happens to be in my favorite season!

surviving summer! What better way to reward wilted Southerners than a menu fit for the season – a feast of fall’s greatest attributes. Though the reds and greens of Christmas are around the corner, I love to relish the oranges, rusts, browns, lavenders and fall hues all season long – especially on the Thanksgiving table.

It is no secret; my favorite season is fall. I love its colors, textures, tastes and feels – especially the tastes of the season. This favorite season is pinnacled by Thanksgiving – the highlight of the fall holidays and the entre into the Christmas season. Culminating into Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating the season and all we have to be thankful for – including cooler weather!

My Mimi always told me that “we eat with our eyes first...” and that has always inspired me when I set a table for any occasion. Having generations represented at the table is also so special this time of year – maybe you have your grandmother’s turkey plates, your mama’s silver and your aunt’s linens. Or, maybe, you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving and only have a yard full of leaves! Regardless, this season is rich in textures and materials for planning a tablescape and menu too!

I’ve said it many a time, but fall is a Southerner’s reward for

Happy Fall, y’all!

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Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Roasted Rutabagas Serves 4

4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved 1 cup chopped pancetta or thick-cut bacon Olive oil for drizzling 3 tablespoons good balsamic vinegar Salt and pepper 3 cups diced rutabaga Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Grease two or more large roasting pans or large cast-iron pans with spray oil. Lay the halved Brussels sprouts out on one pan (or two if need be) with some of the halves facing up and some down. This ensures good roasting and browning. Toss in half of the pancetta. Drizzle liberally with olive, sprinkle with vinegar, and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.

Spread the diced rutabagas on the other greased roasting sheet with the other half of the pancetta. Liberally drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast everything in a hot 425 degree oven until the edges are browned and charring begins to occur. This can take anywhere from 12 to 15 minutes for the Brussels sprouts and 20 minutes or so for the rutabagas. Serve them as a side to pork tenderloins, tossed together as a warm salad or side, or even mixed with pasta! Farmer’s Note: I love to use prunes when roasting Brussels sprouts. They reconstitute with the olive oil and rendering from the pancetta or bacon and are amazing!

Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Bourbon Mustard Sauce Serves 6 to 8

2 pork tenderloins (about 3 pounds) 1⁄4 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon black pepper 2 red or Vidalia onions, quartered 2 green apples, cored and quartered 3⁄4 cup apple cider Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and pat the tenderloins dry with paper towels.

Lather the tenderloins in olive oil and sprinkle with half the salt and pepper. In an iron skillet or oven-safe pan, first sear the tenderloins for up to 2 minutes on each side. Fill the pan with the onions, apples, and apple cider and bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, tenting with tin foil for the last 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and tent with tin foil to keep warm. retirement

BOURBON MUSTARD SAUCE Enough for 2 pork tenderloins

1 shallot, chopped 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cups good bourbon 3⁄4 cup grainy mustard 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 3⁄4 cup apple cider 1 tablespoon honey 1⁄4 teaspoon coarse salt 1⁄2 teaspoon cracked black pepper

In a medium pot, lightly sauté the shallot and garlic in olive oil. Once they are translucent, add the bourbon and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the mustards, apple cider, honey, salt, and pepper and allow to reduce by a third or no more than a half. Ladle sauce over servings of roasted pork, onions, and apples or any other roasted vegetables or cabbage. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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Herb and Poppyseed Rolls Makes 24

24 frozen uncooked rolls or partially cooked bakery rolls About 1 cup melted butter 1 heaping tablespoon each: Poppyseeds Fennel seeds Sesame seeds Caraway seeds

Bake rolls according to package directions. Brush with melted butter upon removing from the oven, then immediately sprinkle with seeds of your choice. Farmer’s Note: Store-bought rolls work just fine for this recipe, so use your favorite variety.

Grown-Up Dirt Cake Serves 10–12

1 Farmer’s Basic Chocolate Cake, cooled and cut into cubes (see below) 1⁄2–3⁄4 cup Kahlua (it’s your party, add another splash if you’d like) Buttermilk Chocolate Puddin’ 12 ounces Sour Cream Whipped Cream 1 Skor candy bar, broken into small pieces* Assemble in a trifle dish or glass bowl or layer

on individual dessert plates. Drizzle cake layers with Kahlua. (Serve more as an aperitif or drink!) Arrange in layers of cake squares, pudding and whipped cream, ending with whipped cream and sprinkling with broken bits of Skor bar. *A Butterfinger or a few Reese’s cups will also work.

The Farmer’s Basic Chocolate Cake 2 cups sugar 1 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted 3⁄4 cup Hershey’s cocoa 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 eggs, room temperature 1 cup buttermilk, well shaken 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons high-quality vanilla extract 1 cup hot coffee

baking dish if assembling a trifle).

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans (or a 9 x 13-inch

Allow the cakes to cool for about 10 minutes and then remove them from their pans.

Combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add wet ingredients, except coffee, and beat for 2 minutes. Add the cup of hot coffee—the batter will be thin. Divide the batter between the two pans (if making a layer cake) and bake about 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Buttermilk Chocolate Puddin’ Serves 6 if not being used for the trifle 1⁄4 cup cornstarch 1⁄2 cup sugar 1⁄8 teaspoon salt 2 1⁄2 cups whole milk 1⁄2 cup buttermilk 6 ounces 60% good-quality semisweet chocolate,* coarsely chopped 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Combine the cornstarch, sugar and salt in the top of a double boiler. Slowly whisk the milks into the mixture, scraping the bottom 108

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and sides with a heatproof spatula to incorporate into the dry ingredients. Place over gently simmering water and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and continuing to scrape the bottom and sides (use a whisk as necessary if lumps begin to form). When the mixture begins to thicken and coats the back of a spoon, add the chocolate. Continue stirring for about 2 to 4 minutes, until the pudding is smooth and thickened. Remove from the

heat and stir in the vanilla. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer (if you feel confident there are no lumps, skip this step) into a serving bowl. Cover with plastic wrap pushed onto the top of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. *Use 70% bittersweet if you want more of a dark chocolate kick.

A few tips for a Thanksgiving Tableau to Remember: • Invite the generations – use your grandmother's china, any heirloom you can find, and mix with updated pieces like fun linens or stemware. Fresh patterns in napkins, and updated looks of stemware with antique silver is very stylish. There's nothing like using things from generations before to make you thankful for their lives and heritage too. • Fruit, Flowers, and Foliage – mix together the fruits of the season like pumpkins with apples, nuts, pomegranates with fall foliage and flowers. I love to scatter shed deer antlers with pumpkins and tuck in some flowers too. Taxidermy Chic as I call it! • Toe the Line - if simplicity is what you prefer, then keep everything on the table in a simple, straight line. For example, three

hurricanes with candles lit with two small arrangements set in between the candles. Very chic and easy! • Cut short and “en masse” – I love to use a lot of one great thing all massed together … for example, orange roses all cut short in great vases with tea lights in between. Or nothing but a centerpiece of green apples with a candlestick at either end. Easy and elegant – allowing one great element like a fruit or flower to be the showstopper on the table. • Think outside the vase – remember, pumpkins make for great vases too! A hollowed out pumpkin is a fantastic centerpiece! • My favorite fall snack is a combo of salted peanuts with candy corn – it’s sweet and salty and tastes like a Payday candy bar!

A graduate of Auburn University, James T. Farmer III is president of James Farmer, Inc., which specializes in residential landscape, interior, and floral design. James is the author of A Time to Plant, Porch Living, Sip & Savor: Drinks for Party and Porch, Wreaths for all Seasons, and A Time to Cook. He has appeared on the Today Show, Paula’s Best Dishes, and regional television. His work has been featured in Southern Living, for which he is an editor-at-large, and Traditional Home, and is a new feature contributor for Showcase Publications. He lives in Perry, Georgia. Find out more about him at jamesfarmer.com. (Photography by Maggie Yelton)

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J. Derryl Thomas, OD Primary Eyecare American Eyecare Center Brandi Lee, OD Primary Eyecare American Eyecare Center Mark Manocha, MD Cataract Surgery Georgia Eye Institute

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Monday - Thursday 9AM - 5 PM

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Tuesday - Friday 9 AM - 5 PM Saturday Appointments Available

County Commissioners: (L to R) Hershell Hires, James Thomas, Mike Roberts, Jerry Wright and Ralph Hickox

(912) 427-5900 341 East Walnut Street Jesup, GA 31546 www.waynecountyga.us

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TALK OF THETOWN

Jesup: The Way to Go! The Downtown Development Authority revealed a new logo and marketing tools at a first ever DDA banquet in September. They also introduced an updated website and presented a renewed focus on building a bustling downtown which includes a 12-block area from Pine Street to Orange Street and from Brunswick Street to First Street encompassing approximately 125 businesses. The DDA also revealed the current development plans for downtown. These include renovation of the Caboose into overnight lodging, the remodeling and opening The Strand Cinema by Jamie and Ralph Hickox, moving For the Love of Yogurt and Jeja's Place to the beautifully restored Kicklighter building, up-

dating the façade design of North Macon Street, and completion of the building structure at the Whaley Center. The DDA announced upcoming events including, Jesup Arch Fest, Mud Bog, Homecoming Parade and Community Pep Rally, and Pinking of the Fountain in October; Merchant Christmas Open House & Small Business Saturday in November; and Downtown Christmas events throughout December. For more information on other exciting information and projects hosted by the Jesup Downtown Development Authority visit their website at jesupga.gov/downtown-development-authority. The Downtown Development Authority is to “provide the community with a comprehensive market analysis of Jesup’s central business district and create awareness of development, investment, events and future planning of downtown.”

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STONEWALL GYPSIES The Stonewall Gypsies is an up and coming new local band with a truly eclectic set of influences. They weave lyrics and rhythm in that head-rocking, foot-tapping, half-smiling way you won’t soon forget. Their members, who share local roots in Wayne County, are Jessi Brannen (percussion, vocals), Jeff Chandler (guitar, banjo), Carson Johnson (bass), and Rob Young (guitar, vocals). Three of

the members, Jessi, Jeff and Carson began making music together in 2015 at a local café, which, they say, is a “cultural hotspot for the artistically minded.” More recently Rob joined the trio of troubadours to help craft the band’s unique blend of southern folk, bluegrass, acoustics, and 90’s alternative favorites. They’ve headlined local events such as the Cherry Street Jam.

The Strand will be Grand Again! The historic Strand Theater in downtown Jesup will once again be showing movies on the big screen. New owners, Ralph and Jamie Hickox, are renovating the theater into a Dinner Theater with three different theaters eventually. The first phase will be complete in November, 2016, with a 37 seat boutique theater with reclining seats overlooking Cherry Street.

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Dr. Pham’s knowledge and experience cover a broad spectrum of conditions that may require surgical treatment. Dr. Quynhanh H.T. Pham, Dena Holland, Aprille Rowland, & Lindsey Moseley

These include diseases of the breast, skin, abdominal organs and hernias. She specializes in minimally invasive surgeries, speciali such as laparoscopic hernia repairs and laparoscopic colon resections, as well as endoscopies and breast surgery. 114

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Board Certiﬁed by the American Board of Surgery • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons • Association of Women Surgeons Member • Society of American Gastrointestinal & Endoscopic Surgeons Member • Southern Medical Association Member

912-559-6929 144 West Cherry Street Jesup, GA 31545 www.phamgensurg.com

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912-427-3791

Harris & Company Certified Public Accountants 274 SW Broad Street Jesup, GA 31545 www.harriscocpas.com

Currently worshiping at Coastal Pines Technical College Auditorium at 10:00 a.m. Thank you Wayne County for your support during the tragic church re. We appreciate your support! We are excited to announce land has been purchased for a new worship center For the most updated information, follow us on facebook.com/newlifejesup or visit our website at newlifejesup.com

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(Front Row L-R) Tempie Anderson (Leadership Wayne Coordinator 2017), Hallie Graham, Candee Harris, Juanita Hosely, Merwan Messa, Connie Riddle, Kreslyn Odum , Regina Parker, Melissa Lamb and Jamie Hickox (Leadership Wayne Coordinator 2018). (Back Row L-R): Cody Anderson, Perry Morgan, Hershell Hires, Mike Hargrove, Shirlene Armstrong, Raymond Brown, Chad Swenson (Leadership Wayne Coordinator 2018) and Donnie Ray (Leadership Wayne Coordinator 2017)

Wayne's Emerging Leaders The new Leadership Wayne class was announced in August, 2016. The participants have already attended an orientation and an overnight bonding retreat on St. Simons Island. The group will spend eight days from October through May focused on different aspects of the community to help them develop an

“Reinvent Yourself” at the MORE Series Luncheon

awareness and appreciation of community resources, processes, problems, and issues. The program wraps up in June with a Vision Retreat and graduation. Leadership Wayne is coordinated by the Wayne Chamber of Commerce with alumni serving as volunteers. Coastal Pines Technical College Foundation is hosting another luncheon in "The MORE Series" featuring Suzanne Dukes LeRoux, founder, and president of One Love Organics, a holistic skincare company dedicated to natural beauty and environmental stewardship. LeRoux, a Wayne County native, will speak on "Reinventing Yourself," a topic with which she is familiar. She was a practicing attorney on St. Simons Island when she developed her new company which Yahoo has named one of the top thirteen best natural brands on the market. The MORE luncheon committee chair is Connie Riddle, President of Showcase Publications, Inc. IF YOU GO… Date: Thursday, Nov. 10 Time: 10 am - 2 pm / Luncheon @ 12 noon Place: Coastal Pines Technical College Tickets: $40 (From Chamber of Commerce or Committee Members) Tables: $300 – 8 seats MORE Marketplace: Shop and visit vendor booths from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm More Information: 912-427-5835

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There’s a New Pig in Town A Ribbon Cutting was held on October 12, 2016, for the new Piggly Wiggly supermarket in Jesup. The store will be the anchor tenant of the new Cherry Street City Center, formerly known as the Cherry Street Plaza. The store owners are Ashley and Missy Thompson. The plaza is being developed by Jodi Ammons. The new store is in the same location as the old Winn Dixie on Cherry Street.

Clay Bethea

New Rayonier Plant Manager Clay Bethea joined Rayonier Advanced Materials in March 2016 as Manager, Production Operations at the Jesup mill. In June, Clay was promoted to Plant Manager. Clay has a strong background in the pulp and paper industry with over 20 years of experience and a successful record of delivering sustained improvements in reliability, production, cost management, quality, and safety performance. He holds a both master’s and bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University. Cole Thompson, son of Missy and Ashley, Missy Thompson, Piggly Wiggly mascot, Ashley Thompson, Jodi Ammons.

The opening coincides with the 100th Anniversary of Piggly Wiggly. Piggly Wiggly®, America's first true self-service grocery store, was founded in Memphis, Tennessee in 1916 by Clarence Saunders. In grocery stores of that time, shoppers presented their orders to clerks who then gathered the goods from the store shelves. Saunders, a dynamic and innovative man, noticed that this method resulted in wasted time and expense, so he came up with an unheard-of solution that would revolutionize the entire grocery industry: he developed a way for shoppers to serve themselves. It was unlike any other contemporary grocery store. There were shopping baskets, open shelves, and no clerks to shop for the customer – all of which were previously unheard of! Piggly Wiggly® was the first to introduce many things that have become commonplace in a modern supermarket, from refrigerated cases to employee uniforms.

Clay and his wife of 27 years, Sandra, have four children, Heather, Taylor, Douglas and Allison. The Bethea’s moved to Jesup from Perry, FL where they lived for over 20 years. There, Clay served as a County Commissioner for Taylor County, FL and sat on the Taylor County Development Authority. Clay enjoys spending time with family, fishing, turkey and deer hunting. "Wayne County is truly a great place to live. The sense of community is real and my family and I are thankful to be a part of the community. Everyone has been so kind and helpful during our transition and though Jesup is larger than we are used to, it feels like home."

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嘀漀琀攀搀圀愀礀渀攀ᤠ猀䘀愀瘀漀爀椀琀攀䌀漀甀渀琀爀礀䌀漀漀欀椀渀最Ⰰ 䌀栀椀挀欀攀渀Ⰰ 䤀挀攀吀攀愀Ⰰ 䈀甀昀昀攀琀Ⰰ ☀ 圀愀椀琀爀攀猀猀 ⴀ 䬀愀爀攀渀倀甀爀瘀椀猀

Angelique’s

Studio of Performing Arts

Instructions Oﬀered in:

Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Tumbling, and Baton Come be part of award-winning competition teams! Discount rates for more than Dis one child enrolling! Participate in summer workshops!

Angelique Harper-Lowry 118 SW. Broad St. • Jesup, GA 31545 angeliquesstudio@bellsouth.net 118

Wayne County Magazine

Philadelphia or Bust! Wayne County Marching Band headed to Philly Story by Kara B. Jackson | Photography by Trish Armstrong Photography

During Thanksgiving break, the Wayne County High School Marching Band heads to Philadelphia for an incredible experience – to march in the ABC Dunkin Donuts Thanksgiving Parade. The parade is about 1.4 miles of marching route through downtown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A trip of this stature does not come cheap, though. According to the Woodwind Lieutenant of the band, Calista Moore, “it is not the distance of the march that we've focused on, but the cost of the trip." Originally the cost of the trip was $700 per student, but after extensive fundraising efforts, the students were responsible for only $100 each. The band has been busy with fundraisers. Most recently, band members sold band cards for $20 apiece. The band has already

sold more than $48,000 in band cards, and since the fundraising began this summer, the students, band boosters, and band staff have raised more than $70,000 – most of which will go toward this trip. Band director Ken Weidner looks forward to what could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some students: “I am ecstatic for our students to have the opportunity to participate in something as huge as this,” he explained. “Many programs are not fortunate enough to even be invited to something this monumental, and I hope it will be an excellent experience for all our students." Anyone that wishes to continue to donate to the band or toward this trip may mail donations to Wayne County Band Boosters | PO Box 296 | Jesup, GA 31598. Showcasing Your Community's Personality

119

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TOWN

Showcase

Low Country Women’s Ministry Annual Conference

he Low Country Women’s Ministry is a group of women of faith from all denominations and various churches across Wayne County that come together to fellowship, worship and to advance the cause of Christ. The ministry has been successful in bringing a diverse group of women together with great speakers from across the state, including this year’s speaker, Michele Davenport. Along with fellow-

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ship, the women enjoy lunch, door prizes, free childcare and the opportunity to be served by men from various churches. The 2017 conference is scheduled to be held at the historic Bennett Union Missionary Baptist Church, located at 401 East Pine Street on February 4th from 8AM-2PM. The Low Country Women’s Ministry extends an invitation to all women to attend their next event.

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General Dentistry Our goal is to offer the highest standard of dental care to our patients in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Dr. Hugh and staff work together to establish happiness, self-esteem, comfort and de optimal dental health for each of our patients. We strive to be efficient and encouraging while creating beautiful smiles.

(912) 427-7072 107 Drennon Drive Jesup, GA 31545

www.jesupdentist.com

HONESTY INTEGRITY LOYALTYEXCELLENCE SUCCESS RESPECT

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Wayne County Magazine

WELCOMES ZACHARY B. HARRIS AS AN ASSOCIATE ATWOOD CHOATE, PC, a full service law firm with decades of experience in:

Buisness & Corporate Law • Wills & Trusts • Estate Planning • Consumer Finance Homewowners Associations Franchise Law • Property & Land Disputes 300 Main Street, Suite 201 St. Simons Island, GA 31522 912.264.4211 • www.atwoodchoate.com

WE BRING LIFE OUTDOORS! CUSTOM LANDSCAPE DESIGN: SOD INSTALLATION SHRUBS & TREES • BEDDING PLANTS UNIQUE HARDSCAPES: SEATING AREAS • FIRE PITS ARCHWAY ENTRANCES • PAVERS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!

678.347.6136

Ryan Madray Odum, Georgia 31555 ryanmadray@gmail.com

Pain hurts! It‘s time for other options for managing your pain. * Epidurals * Trigger Point Injections * Nerve Injections * Spinal Stimulators * Medication Management * Joint Injections * Nerve Ablation

Board Certified In Pain Management

(912) 530-7516 186 South Macon Street | Jesup, GA 31545

Visit our website at: www.magnoliamidlands.com

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • HEALTH • BUSINESS • COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE Ralph Trapnell - Agent and Owner ~ Tonya Anderson - Agent ~ Christy Maness - Sub-Agent

192 East Cherry Street • Jesup, Georgia 31546 912.427.9554 (oﬃce) • 912.427.6359 (fax)

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

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TALK OF THE

TOWN

Showcase

Youth Rally at Jesup’s First Baptist Church

ver 600 area youth attended a Rally featuring the JJ Weeks Band at First Baptist Church in Jesup. Also on hand was University of Georgia Football Player Grayson Lambert. The JJ Weeks Band, based in Macon, Georgia, tours extensively across the United States with 100+ dates per year. The band has been in existence for 12 years and is made up of four young men: David Hart on bass, Robbie Fritz on drums, Cody Preston on guitar and JJ Weeks on lead vocal. Their hit

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song “Let them See You” climbed the charts to be a top 10 single on the Billboard top 100 and a top 20 song for over 30 weeks. Other hit songs include “Do not be Afraid,” and “What Kind of Love.” Grayson was on hand prior to the concert for a “meet and greet” and also shared his testimony at the event. Photography by Mattie Genaux Photography

Showcasing Your Community's Personality

125

Dr. Pumpelly has been my doctor for several years. He is

Full Service Landscape Company Serving Wayne County and the Golden Isles 1549 S. US Hwy 341 Jesup, GA 31545 • 131 Newman Drive Brunswick, GA 31520

912-530-6652 carterlandservices.com Find us on FaceBook

always very considerate and available and answers all of my questions. The service and care from the staff is excellent and I never wait very long. I highly recommend him.

Beth Hatton, patient

Robert A. Pumpelly, MD

124 Memorial Drive Jesup, GA 31545 912-427-4413 Accepting New Patients

ANDY R. BEAVER ATTORNEY AT LAW

• Real Estate Law • Wills & Probate • Family Law • Personal Injury • Criminal Defense

Stuckey’s Cleaners • Alterations • Laundry • Experienced Dry Cleaning • Leather & Fur Cleaning • Wedding Gown Preservation

427-2398 Mon. - Fri. 7 AM - 6 PM Sat. 8 AM - 1 PM

10% OFF YOUR

NEXT VISIT

STUCKEY’S CLEANERS

261 N. Macon St. • Jesup, GA 31545 126

Wayne County Magazine

Serving Wayne and surrounding counties.

912-427-8392

161 E. CHERRY ST. • JESUP, GEORGIA 31545

TALK OF THE

TOWN

Showcase

Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Legacy Dinner

he Chamber’s fourth annual Legacy Dinner was held in June at Pine Forest Country Club. In addition to the passing of the gavel and recognition of new board members, the event highlighted special awards to outstanding community leaders and businesses who have demonstrated a commitment to serving the community and people of Wayne County. Kent Fountain, the 2015 – 2016 Chair of the Wayne Chamber, officially handed over responsibilities as Chair to Joy Burch Meeks as incoming Chair.

The Ambassador of the Year was awarded to Debi Smith, Volunteer Coordinator and Community Liaison for Hospice of Southeast Georgia, with Kent Fountain.

The Excellence in Agriculture Award was awarded to Poppell Farms. Genell and Tanya Poppell, owners, accepted the award from Jimbo Boykin, Vice Chair-Business Development.

Jodi Ammons, of Harper Industries, was selected as Business Leader of the Year. She accepted the award from Jimbo Boykin, Vice Chair – Business Development.

Vi Bennett, State Court Judge, received the Distinguished Service Award from Kent Fountain.

Kent Fountain, of Southeaster Gin & Peanut, passed the gavel and responsibilities as Chair of the Wayne Chamber to Joy Burch Meeks, of FMR Burch Farms.

The Small Business of the Year was awarded to The Michael Long Agency. Michael Long, right, accepts the award from Jimbo Boykin, Vice Chair – Business Development.

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Index 105 Altamaha Federal Credit Union 110 American Eye Care

altamaha.org americaneyecarecenters.net

of Advertisers 101 Jones Medical Equipment

jonesmedicalga.ybsitecenter.net

90 Jones Prescription Shop

126 Andy Beaver, Attorney at Law

101 Just Uniforms

118 Angelique's Dance Studio

83 Kim Rozier, CPA

kimberlyjuarbecpa.com

123 Magnolia Midlands

magnoliamidlands.com

101 Angel's Fine Dining 122 Armstrong Family Dentistry 123 Atwood Choate, P.C.

angelsfinedining.com jesupdentist.com atwoodchoate.com

122 Bennett & Lindsey 5

Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia

111 Boykin Steel & Crane 105 Calvary Baptist Church 126 Carter Land Services 82 Chad Nimmer, State Representative 93 Chemours 96 City of Jesup

bjisg.com boykinsteel.com cbcjesup.org carterlandservices.com chad.nimmer@house.ga.gov chemours.com

justuniforms.us

64 Mattie Genaux Photography

genauxphotography.com

100 Morton Collision Center

mortoncollisioncenter.com

97 Murphy Builders Supply

murphybuildersupply.com

Nesmith Chevrolet

nesmithjesup.com

115 New Life Pentecostal Church

newlifejesup.com

97 Odum Church of God

facebook.com/OdumCOG

114 Old Goats Photography 35 Optim

optim.com

114 Pham General Surgery

phamgensurg.com

jesupga.gov

Inside Front Cover Piggy Wiggly

pigglywiggly.com

50 Coastal Pines Technical College

coastalpines.edu

71 R & R Auto & Camper Sales

rrautosalesinc.com

87 Crandall Eye

crandalleye.com

29 Rayoner Advanced Materials

16 David's Clothing

rayonieram.com

Inside Back Cover Renue Plastic Surgery

83 Dipreta Dermatology

dipretadermatology.com

126 Robert A. Pumpelly, MD

21 Duckworth Properties

duckworthproperties.com

102 Shaun O'Quinn Country Financial

100 EAM Corporationi/Domtar 122 Express Employment 72 Felton Burke Automotive 82 For the Love of Yogurt 102 Georgia Dermatology Associates 57 Georgia Hospice Care

eam-corp.com expresspros.com jesupcars.com fortheloveofyogurtga.com

90 Subway 118 Sybil's Family Restaurant

sybilsfamilyrestaurant.com

georgiahospicecare.com

49 The Conner Law Group

theconnerlawgroup.com

harriscocpas.com

harris-realty.net jesupdoctor.com

123 HHH Landcaping 34 Interstate Credit Union

104 Jesup Premium Storage

The Michael Long Agency

angelsfinedining.com facebook.com/michaellongagency

111 Through Christ Fit Personal Training 65 Tim's Home Medical 41 Wayne County Chamber of Commerce

hospicesoga.com ifcu.org

87 Ja Je's Place 123 Jesup Insurance Agency

subway.com

gaderm.com

115 Harris & Company

Hospice of South Georgia

sghs.org

126 Stuckey Cleaners

101 The Hidden Room

smartptga.com

Back Cover Southeast Georgia Health System

gooeyspizza.com

93 Headley Family Medicine

countryfinancial.com

104 SMaRT Physical Therapy

101 Gooey's Pizza 122 Harris Real Estate

renuemd.com

110 Wayne County Commissioners 96 Wayne County Recreation Dept. 77 Wayne Family Fitness

jesupinsurance.com jesupstorage.com

Wayne Family Practice

76 Wayne Obstetrics & Gynecology

waynechamber.com waynecountyga.us

waynecountyrecreation.com facebook.com/WayneFamilyFitness waynefamilypractice.com jesupobgyn.com

Please thank these advertisers for making this publication possible! Support these businesses and buy local. 128

Wayne County Magazine

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Showcasing Your Community's Personality 10/19/16

4:5457 PM

Treating you like family comes naturally

Our physicians have been in Jesup for years. The bond we have here makes us feel like family. And that’s the way we treat our patients. Our compassion is only surpassed by our experience, training and access to the most advanced technologies available to treat both common and complex conditions. Right here, close to home. Call for an appointment today; we look forward to seeing you. Pulmonary Medicine – 912-466-5504 Hematology & Oncology – 912-588-1073 General & Vascular Surgery – 912-265-5125 125 Peachtree Street, Jesup, GA 31545

L to R: Abraham Cheong, M.D., Hematology & Oncology; Herman Levy, M.D., Pulmonary Medicine; P. Kevin Beach, M.D., Vascular Surgery; Duane P. Moores, M.D., Ph.D., Hematology & Oncology; Brooks County Living Magazine Stephen A. Chitty IV, M.D., Pulmonary Medicine