MARCH Savannah, GA
free!
skirt!is
www.skirt.com
Take Time to wonder shop. Look in the eyes of
a stranger passing you on the street.
Can you find the real person there for a tiny
tick of the heart? Look up—what beautiful
view is waiting all the time just above your
head? Look down—who’s reaching up for
help to rise above sorrow, hardship, a broken
soul? Look around your neighborhood—
see the same old streets as if they’re
Yellow Brick Roads with a wizard waiting at the end. Look
around your house—what could you
lose and still be you? Look at your
work—when was the last time you fell in
love with it? Look inside—what are the
secret unlived lives you could midwife?
S to p t h e c l o c k A n d l o o k
Around—it’S About time. Cover copy by Nikki Hardin, art by Ali Douglass
“A clock is a little machine that shuts us out from the wonder of time.” Susan Glaspell
2 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Nikki Hardin publisher@skirt.com Art Director
Caitilin McPhillips caitilin.mcphillips@skirt.com National Editor
Margaret Pilarski margaret.pilarski@skirt.com Savannah Editor
Elena Fodera elena.fodera@skirt.com Advertising Director
Jane Townsend jane.townsend@savannahnow.com Sales Executives
Cinda Baker
Pardon our mistake! Brandy and Ryan Koch were listed as owners of Tybee’s Rock House in last month’s issue. The correct titles are: Ryan is the Director of Entertainment, and Brandy is the Host-Event Planner. But we were right about one thing: they rock!
MARCH
Publisher
skirt! is all about women... their work, play, families, creativity, style, health and wealth, bodies and souls. skirt! is an attitude...spirited, independent, outspoken, serious, playful and irreverent, sometimes controversial, always passionate.
cinda.baker@skirt.com Belinda Draucker belinda.draucker@skirt.com Graphic Designer
Britt Scott britt.scott@skirt.com Photography
Paul Goerner Lottie Hedley Office: 912.525.0740 Sales: 912.525.0740 FAX:
912.525.0746
CAlendAR SubMiSSionS Send information elena.fodera@skirt.com, or mail to skirt! Savannah, 1375 Chatham Parkway Savannah, GA 31405
The
Tick Tock Issue
FeAtuReS
Profile: Doll Miller
60 Miles for 60 Years................................................................ 10
letteRS to tHe editoR All letters must include the writer’s name and city/state.
Profile: Angelique Chase
48 Hours for 7 Minutes......................................................... 13
WRiteRS & ARtiStS Our guidelines are available online at skirt.com. Submit artwork or essays via e-mail to submissions@skirt.com.
Profile: Amanda Montford
80 Hours for 1,120 Square Feet ......................................14 9-5: Women in Business.....................................................16
skirt! is published monthly and distributed free throughout the greater Savannah area. skirt! reserves the right to refuse to sell space for any advertisement the staff deems inappropriate for the publication. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Letters to the editor are welcome, but may be edited due to space limitations. Press releases must be received by the 1st of the month for the following month’s issue. All content of this magazine, including without limitation the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content, as well as the selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright © 2012, Morris Publishing Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. No portion of this magazine may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher. SKIRT!® is a registered trademark of Morris Publishing Group, LLC.
Women Women make make more more than than 80% 85% of all purchasing decisions.
Of the Essence
Stephanie Hunt ........................................................................... 24 Making Up For Lost Time
Marna Ashburn Krajeski......................................................... 26 Women spend Women almost 2 ofspend every 3 almost 2 of every 3 healthcare dollars.
Women control 2/3 of the nation’s disposable income.
Skirt! Style .................................................................................. 30 Local Loves ................................................................................. 35
in eveRy iSSue
Letter from the Publisher/Editor ......................................... 8 Women Women influence 80% 80% influence of all car sales.
Skirt of the Month..................................................................... 21
Calendar .......................................................................................... 23
He’s So Original.......................................................................... 28
Meet................................................................................................... 37
Planet Nikki.................................................................................... 38
MARCH
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THE UNITED SKIRTS OF AMERICA
The United Skirts of America was founded on the blood, sweat and estrogen of our foremothers, who won us the freedom to choose...to break The Rules, to wear combat boots or high
FROM THE PUBLISHER
The
Tick Tock Issue
I’ve never done anything in my life on time. I got married way too early at 17, started college at 30, held my first professional job at 35, dropped out at 42 and started a business at 50. My timing sucked, or maybe it was just right for me—I’m never quite sure. My life seemed to progress by fits and starts.
COVER ARTIST
heels, to run for office
Ali Douglass was born in Mun-
or run a marathon,
cie, Indiana and after enjoying
to form our own
life in Boston, Kansas City, New
rock groups instead
life: college, career, happy-ever-after. Forget the fact that barely anyone
York City, and San Francisco,
of being groupies, to
I knew had that going on—I wanted normal! And if I couldn’t have that,
she is happy to be living in
shatter Glass Ceilings
I thought that the passage of time would at least make me a “finished”
Asheville, NC. She has been
and Glass Slippers, to
person, a grown-up who could rest on her laurels. Or maybe simply rest.
working as an illustrator for
shoot hoops instead
Turns out those new wall calendars I purchase every year have nothing
more than 13 years, illustrating
of settling for hoop
whatsoever to do with my internal clock. The one that runs on soul
magazines, newspapers, greeting
skirts. The ones who
cards, advertising, and more
came before us made
than 25 books. Her work has
it possible for our
been recognized by American
daughters to dream
Illustration, Step Inside Design,
bigger, to have the
L.A. Society of Illustrators, ready-
chance to grow up to
made.com, sfgirlbybay.com, and
be President and turn
apartmenttherapy.com. Books
the Oval Office into
she has illustrated for Ameri-
the Ovary Office. In
FROM THE EDITOR
can Girl have been winners of
the United Skirts of
Tick-tock…It’s that time again! In the fast-paced world of headlines and deadlines, staying up-to-
the 2008 Children’s Choice
America, every day is
the-minute is crucial. By the time this is in your hands, I’ll be wrapping up another issue. Funny how
Award, International Reading
Independence Day!
Association and Children’s
VISIT US ON SKIRT.COM
I’d make great leaps forward and then stagger sideways only to somehow get back on track. I often longed for a more predictable trajectory for my
power rather than batteries doesn’t know my “real”age; it thinks I’m always just beginning. When I mutter “too late,” it chimes in with Never!. When I try to hit Snooze, it wakes me up with an insistent new idea. It might not be the standard timeline I longed for, but it’s reassuring to be reminded that right now is the time of my life.
Nikki
publisher@skirt.com
that works. Right when you think you’re catching up, the moment ends. I’m tempted to talk about slowing down and taking the time to enjoy each precious second, but life doesn’t always allow for that. Sometimes you just have to hold your breath and charge through it. Thrive on the pressure. Pull it inward.Turn it into fuel.Times are always changing; how you adjust is what matters. Even here at skirt!,
Book Council, and winner of
exciting new things are happening. Last month we debuted skirt! in the Kitchen, and this month
the 2007 Excellence in Financial
we’ve got skirt! Style’s fashion inspirations and Local Loves, spotlighting products made right here in
Literacy Award (EIFLE), Institute
Savannah. And we’ve got even more plans coming up (like parties—hint, hint!) that we hope will help us connect with you, the readers, and the community in new ways. So stay tuned, and be sure to follow
for Financial Literacy.
us on facebook.com/skirtsavannahHHI and Twitter @skirtsavannah to keep in touch!
P.M.
8 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Elena
elena.fodera@skirt.com
www.skirt.com marchw2012savannah 9
All in Good Time
Doll Miller | 60 Miles for 60 Years Dr. Doll Miller says she’s been a runner for over 30 years and an animal lover for over 60. That combination was her inspiration to undertake an impressive feat for a cause dear to her heart: “knowing that Savannah is in great need of a spay and neuter clinic, we thought we’d kick off our funding efforts with my running 60 miles for my 60th birthday.” The run, which took place October 1st, 2010, went from the Landings to downtown all the way to Tybee Island. “The exposure from newspapers and television was tremendous— it takes a village!” Doll recalls. With community support through sponsorships, donations and runners joining in, she raised $75,000 for the Humane Society of Greater Savannah. She also ran 50 miles on her 50th birthday, “just for fun,” she says. So what’s unstoppable Doll got planned for 70 down the road? She laughs, “Babysit my grandkids!” Photo by Lottie Hedley
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All in Good Time
Angelique Chase | 48 Hours for 7 Minutes Actress, producer and assistant director Angelique Chase of First City Films is no stranger to the pressures of working on a movie set. Coordinating crew, equipment and tons more in a fast-paced setting requires flexibility and organization. Throw in an unthinkable time crunch and you’ve got the 48 Hour Film Project, which Angelique and her team participated in last year. “You’re given a line of dialogue, a prop and a character to incorporate,” she explains, “From the time you draw to the time you race down Broughton Street to turn it in, you’ve got 48 hours to write, shoot and edit a complete film.” Theirs, a 7-minute horror flick titled “Blood Type,” was 48HFP’s Audience Award winner. “It’s very exciting,” Angelique says. “At the end of the day, you’re proud of your work, and you think, if that was in 48 hours, imagine what we could do with more time!” Photo by Lottie Hedley
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All in Good Time
Amanda Montford | 80 Hours for 1,120 Square Feet Amanda Montford was born a builder. VP of Savannah Drywall Supply, she’s third-generation in the family business and a member of NAWIC, the National Association of Women in Construction. In 2010, she and the chapter joined up with Habitat for Humanity for the Women Build project, completing a home for a local woman and her great-granddaughter in just under 6 months. “It was a very special feeling to know that it was women helping women,” says Amanda, who spent a total of 36 hours on-site and 80 on the whole job. “The day we framed the house was my favorite,” she recalls. “We came in with just a slab and by the time we left that afternoon, we had framed half the house. You could see where the rooms were going to be. To see our plans becoming tangible so quickly gave us a great sense of accomplishment.” Photo by Lottie Hedley
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MARCH
Women In Business Showcasing passionate professionals from artists and specialists to entrepreneurs, 9-5 is your guide to Savannah’s best and brightest women in business.
Adult Education
Adult Entertainment
Art Creations
IT IS TIME FOR YOU
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS!
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS!
Lynne Leftwich Point University
Salena Frost The Comedy Store
Shelby Frost Joker’s Novelties
My Philosophy: My goal is to support women’s vocational choices. My passion is connecting with and equipping students to take their faith into the marketplace in new, culturally relevant ways. As caregivers, women often neglect to make their own needs a priority.You deserve to become the person you want to be. Point University can help you get there.
My Philosophy: Since opening our doors in Savannah in 1976, we have strived to be a company with a unique vision and passion for helping people grow, discover new levels of intimacy and embrace a variety of interests. Our store brings out the playfulness in couples that is proven to improve relationships.
My Philosophy: To provide a line of products that inform, educate, arouse, delight, excite, create ambiance, encourage communication and playfulness, increase intimacy, stimulate the senses, improve relationships and help people laugh and enjoy life.We believe our businesses create a positive effect in the world!
217 Eisenhower Dr. 912.353.7584 comedystoreonline.com
111 W. DeRenne Ave. 912.352.0709 jokernov.com
55 Al Henderson Blvd. Savannah • 912.629 3855 point.edu/access lynne.leftwich@point.edu
Art Studio
WHERE BUDDING ARTISTS COME TO LEARN!
Tara Garrigan Scribble Art Studio My Philosophy: We believe in stimulating young minds through art. At Scribble Art Studio, students learn fundamentals and build skills while exploring their imaginations. As art’s presence in school programs declines, it’s more important than ever to offer opportunities to develop innovation, creativity and confidence while interacting with others in a nurturing environment. 212 E. 37th St. Savannah • 912.323.0123 thescribbleartstudio.com
Beauty & Cosmetics
ART IS GOOD FOR YOU!
Carrie Christian Scribble Art Studio My Philosophy: We strive to draw out students’ creativity and imagination, offering fun, eclectic classes in a nurturing environment. Lessons are designed to create a foundation on which your child’s artistic education will grow and blossom. We believe in self-expression and strive to create an environment that encourages each student’s individual strengths. 212 E. 37th St. Savannah • 912.323.0123 thescribbleartstudio.com
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CUSTOM FRAMING, GALLERY ART & HOME DÉCOR
Kathy McCollister Trends and Traditions My Philosophy: To offer innovative and upscale art solutions at reasonable prices and to help customers create a personalized environment that celebrates their individual tastes. Locally owned and operated, we offer a quiet, comfortable atmosphere, meeting all your decorating needs with experience, quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service! 5401 Waters Ave. Savannah • 912.354.5012 trendsinframing.com
Children’s Clothing
NATURALLY YOU, NATURALLY UNIFYING
CLOTHING AS UNIQUE AS YOUR LITTLE ONE
Khiara Washington Khijo Hair Products
Sara Jane Strickland Sara Jane Children’s Boutique
My Philosophy: Khijo products is an all-natural cosmetic line. We believe businesses should thrive on good ethics, providing safe, natural products that come from sustainable sources. Our mission is to help people look and feel their best without damaging their skin or body, while promoting community and bringing all types of people together.
My Philosophy: Children’s fashion is our passion. Not your typical children’s store, Sara Jane creates a special place and experience for the kids. While you peruse the racks of unique apparel, your little one can enjoy a dress-up tea party, play in our pint-sized playhouse or take a trip down the catwalk.
Savannah • 912.509.0656 khijo.com
202 E. 37th St. Savannah • 912.234.5266 sarajanekids.com
MARCH
Consignment
UNHEARD-OF prices for designer apparel
Amber Smith Fabulous Finds Consignment My Philosophy: Fabulous Finds is not your typical consignment shop. We offer a boutique-style shopping experience without the retail prices. I believe all women should have the opportunity to buy designer items priced to fit their budget. I personally ensure that you find what you’re looking for and leave feeling satisfied and fabulous! 714 Mall Blvd., Ste. 5 Savannah • 912.712.7107
Healthcare Administration
THE VEIN AND ARTERY EXPERTS
Sharon Bell, Exec. Director Savannah Vascular & Cardiac Institute My Philosophy: We focus on excellence in patient care and state-of-the-art facilities. Our physicians are fellowship trained, board certified vascular specialists who believe in disease prevention through patient education and lifestyle changes. We are committed to serving patients with compassionate and minimally invasive management of all venous and arterial disorders. Patients love the personalized care in our vein center! 4750 Waters Ave., Ste. 500 and 11706 Mercy Blvd., Plaza A Bldg. 7 Savannah • 912.352.8346 savannahvascular.com
Event Design & Planning
THE POWER OF NETWORKING!
Selia J. Mitchell Savannah’s Women in Business Expo My Philosophy: My true passion is creating unique events with a fun ambiance! As a young woman in business myself, I enjoy helping others reach their potential and succeed.Through Savannah’s Women in Business Expo, emerging and established entrepreneurs will have a platform to showcase their products and services to a wide audience. Savannah • 912.346.4928 savwomeninbusinessexpo.weebly.com
Human Resources
Fitness
EQUIPMENT YOU NEED AT A FAIR PRICE
ALWAYS COMMITTED TO CARING
Nancy Flemming, Director of Radiology Effingham Health System
Julie Chisolm The Tennis Shop My Philosophy: After being a tennis player for 20 years, I turned my passion and hobby into a business. We have Savannah’s largest selection for every style and player type and give fitting advice, equipment demos and family-friendly service. With lowered prices, new lines and a new look, you’ll “love” the Tennis Shop. 1100 Eisenhower Dr., Ste. 4A Savannah • 912.354.1858 thetennisshopsav.com
Fitness Laser Hair Removal
PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
FINALLY! AFFORDABLE LASER TREATMENTS
Rushe Hudzinski,TSAC-SHRM President & HR Director Effingham County Human Resources
Jennifer Admundsen, CCE, CME, LE Allure Laser Center
My Philosophy: Human Resources is my passion. The changing arena requires creativity, strategic initiative and collaboration to build efficiency within organizations and communities. TSAC-SHRM assists HR professionals with core competencies and education in progressive HR practices. TSAC-SHRM is a recognized authority for people-management and a diversified network for shared expertise.
Healthcare Administration
459 Hwy. 119 S Springfield • 912.754.6451 effinghamhealth.org
Art Creations Maid Service
House cleaning with heart!
Nicole Hubbard Hubbard’s Maid Service
My Philosophy: Allure Laser Center focuses on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Most women and men who are seeking an alternative solution are candidates for laser hair removal. We can remove hair from any part of the body quickly and effectively, making your skin smooth and hair-free! 408 US Hwy. 80 SW Pooler • 912.596.8524 allurelasercenter.com
My Philosophy: I’m proud that we offer advanced imaging technology to patients and that our staff is always kind and compassionate. I want each visit to EHS to be a positive experience. Making patients feel like neighbors and friends while providing them with excellent care is how I measure quality.
My Philosophy: Hubbard’s Maid Service was created to serve. We offer free inhome estimates for every lifestyle. We also serve the community by partnering with Cleaning for a Reason, a foundation that donates free home cleanings to women undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Our goal is to make a difference in people’s lives. Savannah • 912.961.9131 hubbardsmaidservice.com
601 N. Laurel St. Springfield • 912.754.2104 effinghamcounty.org
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MARCH
Medical Weight Loss
Medical Spa
LIFE. RESTORED.
WHERE BEAUTY BEGINS
Dr. Kyrin Dunston, MD, FACOG True Balance MD
Kathy Chu, MD Genesis Medical Spa
My Philosophy: My mission is to assist others who are experiencing symptoms that mainstream medicine does not have the answer for in discovering the true cause of these symptoms and correcting these imbalances with vitamins, minerals, herbs and bio-identical hormones so that they too can have their lives restored.
My Philosophy: We want to help you achieve lasting results while providing information and tools to maintain your vibrant look.We have carefully selected the most effective technology for our procedures, including microdermabrasion, laser hair removal, facials and photofacials, Botox and Juvederm.
800B 70th St. Savannah • 912.349.9490 truebalancemd.com
4451 Paulsen St., Ste. B Savannah • 912.354.4095 genesissavannah.com
Optical Health
Philanthropy & Fundraising
IMPROVING VISION, ONE PATIENT AT A TIME
CONNECTING TO PEOPLE’S PASSIONS
Jessica Smith Pearle Vision/Coastal Eye Associates
Megan Kerley,VP Hospice Savannah Foundation, Inc.
My Philosophy: I am passionate about life and I actively strive to find joy in everything I do. I am blessed to have a profession that allows me to combine my ability to show compassion for others with my love of analysis and problem solving. Improving the quality of life for my patients gives me great satisfaction.
My Philosophy: My goal is to make donors excited about giving! Often they have been caregivers for terminally ill loved ones. Perhaps our bereavement counselors gave them support when they needed it most. My passion is showing the community how their gifts can make a difference to a caregiver, patient, or grieving child.
105 Grand Central Blvd., Unit 110 Pooler • 912.450.9300 coastaleyeassociatessc.com
P.O. Box 13190 Savannah • 912.629.1025 mkerely@hospicesavannahhelps.org
Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics
MORE BEAUTIFUL. MORE YOUTHFUL. MORE YOU.
MORE BEAUTIFUL. MORE YOUTHFUL. MORE YOU.
MORE BEAUTIFUL. MORE YOUTHFUL. MORE YOU.
SEVEN SURGEONS. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.
Robin Bayles, LE Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery
Meghan K. McGovern, MD Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery
Donna Thiffault, LE Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery
Barbara L. Davies, MD Savannah Plastic Surgery
My Philosophy: Combining natural elements with proven techniques and an awareness of new trends and scientific developments helps us offer you a superior opportunity to look and feel your best. I love creating healthy, glowing skin and am dedicated to providing the most effective skin care and skin transformation treatments available.
My Philosophy: Women come to me because they want to look younger and more refreshed. They don’t want to look unnatural, over-plumped or pulled too tightly. My practice is devoted to providing a wide range of individualized solutions, whether you want a little softening of facial lines or a total “mommy makeover.”
My Philosophy: As a Licensed Esthetician, my passion is for quality service using the latest technology and innovation. I am committed to exceeding my clients’ expectations. I begin by offering a complementary skin analysis and educating clients about correction and prevention. My vision is to make you feel and look your best.
My Philosophy: I am grateful to be in a position to help someone improve his or her self-esteem. Patients come for a consultation about an issue that has troubled them for years, and then leave feeling so much happier about their possibilities. I feel very fortunate to help people in this way.
1209 Merchant Way, Ste. 301 Statesboro • 912.681.7793 coastalempireplasticsurgery.com
900 Mohawk St., Ste. A Savannah • 912.920.5626 coastalempireplasticsurgery.com
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900 Mohawk St., Ste. A Savannah • 912.920.5626 coastalempireplasticsurgery.com
7208 Hodgson Memorial Dr. Savannah • 912.351.5050 savannahplasticsurgery.com
MARCH
Real Estate
Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics
MEDICALLY BASED SKIN CARE
EVERYONE DESERVES RADIANT SKIN
Paige Adams, LE The Skin Institute
Kathy Brown, LE The Skin Institute
My Philosophy: I am committed to helping you achieve your most stunning self. From waxing and facials to chemical peels and lasers, I help patients feel more confident in their skin. I feel most rewarded when a patient rises from my chair, looks in the mirror, and sighs in amazement and satisfaction.
My Philosophy: I am a Licensed Esthetician who has worked for The Skin Institute at Savannah Plastic Surgery for eight years. As an avid believer in research and advanced technologies, I strive to stay on the cutting edge of skin care trends, delivering the best skin therapies to Savannah and my patients.
7208 Hodgson Memorial Dr. Savannah • 912.351.5050 savannahplasticsurgery.com
7208 Hodgson Memorial Dr. Savannah • 912.351.5050 savannahplasticsurgery.com
Retirement Living
SKINCARE FOR THE RESULT-ORIENTED PATIENT
Savannah Native with Market knowledge
Michelle Turley, LE The Skin Institute
Robin Boaen, Associate Broker Keller Williams Realty
My Philosophy: With two decades of experience, I am the proud leader of Savannah’s most experienced medical skin care specialist team. Expansive treatment options are available through my collaboration with the surgeons at Savannah Plastic Surgery. My ultimate goal is having every patient appreciate the compliments given on their healthy, beautiful skin.
My Philosophy: No one knows Savannah like a local! As a native Savannahian, my real estate expertise has a personal touch. I believe in Southern hospitality and am proud to highlight all of our area’s charm. My clients’ needs always come first; I use all possible resources to find you the best deal.
7208 Hodgson Memorial Dr. Savannah • 912.351.5050 savannahplasticsurgery.com
Salon & Spa
329 Commercial Dr., Ste. 100 Savannah • 912.356.5001 savannahresidential.com
Art Seasonings Creations
RETIREMENT LIVING AT ITS FINEST
SOUTHERN COMFORT REFINEd
CHANGING VIEWS OF SALONS
WHERE TASTE SAMPLING IS FUN!
Linda Malhoyt, Exec. Director John Wesley Villas
Morgan Godwin, B.Sc., LMT Spa Bleu
LaDonna Dryer He Said… She Said Salon & Beyond
Carol Sellers The Salt Table
My Philosophy: At John Wesley Villas, we strive to ensure that our Independent and Assisted Living residents truly live life to its finest. Offering warm, personalized service in a friendly community, we understand that no two people are alike. We celebrate individuality by tailoring our care to meet their needs.
My Philosophy: I wanted to create a space that offers a holistic experience with true ‘bleu’ Southern comfort, relaxation, healing, beauty, art and history in the charming city of Savannah.We offer massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, thermal body treatments using all organic and hand-mixed ingredients, spray tanning, yoga and more.
My Philosophy: What hairstylists possess is more than just talent; it’s the ability to touch lives. We’re privileged to have a team dedicated to ensuring that guests leave feeling positive, refreshed and beautiful. People may not remember what you did or said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.
231 W. Montgomery Cross Rd. Savannah • 912.925.8853 johnwesleyvillas.com
101 Bull St. Savannah • 912.236.1490 spableu-sav.com
1980 Chatham Pkwy., Ste. 702 Savannah • 912.236.8888 hesaidshesaid@comcast.net
My Philosophy: Upon entering The Salt Table, you’ll discover a store like no other. Smell and taste the salts, seasonings, teas, sugars, oils, vinegars, popcorns and vanillas. Not a franchise, The Salt Table is a unique local brand of food-enhancement products packaged on the premises. Come taste the difference! 51 Barnard St. Savannah • 912.447.0200 salttable.com
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Traci Daberko is an illustrator and graphic designer in Seattle, WA. See her work at daberkodesign.com.
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Illustration by Monkey Mind Design, Unique Paper Expressions. monkeymindesign.etsy.com
MARCH
1
Today is your last chance to see MuseArt, a special series of oil paintings by June Stratton inspired by Savannah Philharmonic. Whitney Gallery. 415 Whitaker St. 12-6pm.
City Market’s St. Baldrick's event will benefit Memorial’s Children’s Oncology Group, as volunteers shave their heads in solidarity. stbaldricks.org/events/ savannahcitymarket
It’s the official first day of Spring: work in your garden, celebrate in Forsyth Park, or take that beautiful drive to Tybee. Just don’t stay inside.
3 CeltiC traditions
Join GSU Performing Arts Center for Women of Ireland, a concert production showcasing Ireland's leading female performers in music, song and dance. georgiasouthern.edu/pac
8-9 the artful table
Telfair Academy Guild’s annual spring fundraiser, The Artful Table: Celebrations and Inspirations with Barry Dixon, will feature a preview party Thursday and lecture, luncheon and auction Friday. telfair.org.
3-4 roCk and reCords
Bandwagon celebrates the fine art of poster design with exhibitions, workshops, live music, a record fair and more, plus a rockin’ block party Saturday. attendbandwagon.com
9 5k & Walk
All proceeds from the 19th annual Shamrock Run benefit the March of Dimes, a giving way to kick off the St. Patty’s season. To register, visit fleetfeetsavannah.com/shamrock-run.
5-10 vaCation destination
The 27th annual Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival one of the East Coast’s largest tented wine festivals, featuring fine tastings and more all week. hiltonheadisland.org/winefest
10-16 on my honor
Celebrate 100 years of scouting during Girl Scout Week at the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace. $8 Adults/ Discounts for kids and scouts. juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org More about this and other centennial celebrations at juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org.
11 spring forWard
Don’t forget! Daylight Saving Time begins today at 2am. Move that clock ahead an hour and savor the longer lasting daylight!
22-apr. 7 savannah musiC festival
Georgia’s largest musical arts event, SMF will host great acts like Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Justin Townes Earle, the Head and the Heart and many more. savannahmusicfestival.org.
17 savannah signature
Kick off the celebration with the 188th St. Patrick's Day Parade, then take to the streets for our favorite party of the year. 10:15am. savannahsaintpatricksday. com
23-24 day tripper
The first-ever Statesboro Music Festival is a family-friendly, two-day event featuring musicians from all over the South, just a short drive away. statesboromusicfestival.com
22-25 tour of homes and gardens
A one-of-a-kind opportunity to tour some of Savannah’s finest private gardens and residences, the tour is a true showcase of Hostess City hospitality. savannahtourofhomes.org.
24 in bloom
Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens’ 18th annual Spring Garden Festival includes educational lectures, kids’ activities, plant vendors and more. 9am-4pm. ugaextension.com/bamboo
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“Be right there!”
“Just a second!”
Of theEssence My problem is that I simply have a hard time with time.
Stephanie Hunt
24 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Of the Essence
It’s Sunday morning, the Prius is quietly purring while I’m not-so-quietly grumbling. I’m having a driveway moment, and not the NPR kind. No, this is the 10:42am driveway moment, now turning into the 10:43, 10:44, 10:45 moments, as I watch the dashboard clock digitize. Church starts in 15 minutes; it takes at least 20 minutes to get there, if I speed past the Episcopalians and Presbyterians crossing the street to their respective sanctuaries along my route, clueless of how close to meeting their Maker they are as I zoom by, hell-bent on making up time. The numerals click over to 10:46, 47...“Come on, damn it!” I huff in PhariseeMom hypocrisy. I honk the horn, again...waiting for my teenage daughter. The worst part of these driveway moments is the guilt, the flashbacks. As a teenager, I was always the last one out of the house, the one who made my mother and sisters wait in our idling Dodge station wagon, the ashes on Mom’s cigarette growing longer every second. The tables have turned—my poor child has inherited my chronos curse. I’m a perpetually poor judge of time. “Just a second!” is my motto. My tombstone will read “Be right there!” My long-suffering, punctual husband simply rolls his eyes. He used to think it was cute—part of my can-do optimism—that I’d think I could swing by the grocery, go for a run, get showered, dressed and be ready—all in 40 minutes or less. Now, after 23 years of observing my delusional behavior, he’s learned to compensate and buffer, announcing that the concert starts at eight if it really begins at nine. Of course I know this and counter buffer, which leads to a convoluted tug-o-war between clock, spouse and those last two things on my to-do list that I think I can squeeze in and still stay married. I’ve read the psycho-babble about my tribe—the 20 percent of us (including Robert Redford and Elizabeth Taylor, who by dictate of her will was 15 minutes late to her own funeral) who are chronologically impaired. We allegedly run the clock to hold others hostage or get our narcissistic jollies strolling late into a meeting. But I don’t buy it for a second, even if I had a sense of how long a second was. For me, being late is painful, embarrassing. It is not about power trips or passive-aggressively manipulating others—heck, I’m a mom; I’ve got all the passive aggressive outlets I could want! If I craved adrenaline, I’d go skinny dipping, not push a deadline. My problem is that I simply have a hard time with time. And now, as I’m stalled in the driveway, waiting, waiting, waiting for my tardy offspring, I have an “aha moment” (wait, was it a moment, or just a few seconds?) on why this may be. I call it the feminization of time. What I realize is that I have a womanly predilection against punctuality. I am more “off time” than on it, by nature. I was a late bloomer in adolescence, my biological clock abiding by its own free-floating time frame. I delivered three children all past their due dates. I’m cued into cycles and seasons, but their edges and boundaries are fuzzy, relative, not absolute, and unfortunately this trickles down to my Day-Timer. As a schoolgirl I remember being awed by the sundial at the UNC Observatory and the mesmerizing graceful arcs of the pendulum clock under its grand dome. This measure of time resonated with me: the slow dance of amorphous shadow across a circular face, the pendulum’s relentless rhythmic sweep. Maybe I’m just a rebellious daughter, but I’m much less in sync with the linear, Western “Father Time” model. I bristle against a stern patriarch who demands we manage time, master it, divide it into neat and tidy color-coded Google calendar blocks, schedule the hell out it, try to save it then spend it wisely, because of course, we’ve monetized it, cashed it into a commodity. We’ve taken the mysterious rotation of Earth spiraling around a sun, orbited by a moon, and reduced it to billable hours. As if my time could possibly be worth more or less than yours. As if all time was not precious and sacred. The Greek god Kronos, the troubled son of Gaia and Uranus, was one nasty dude—powerful and violent, he killed his father and devoured his kids— ate them he did, out of fear and jealousy. And with his sharp scythe, he rules time. No wonder we’re ravenous; despite operating at full 24/7-tilt, we’re wildly wielding that scythe, seeking more hours, more minutes, more time. A feminization of time doesn’t discount the need for punctuality; schedules are necessary, appointments and deadlines must be honored, and I’m going to buckle down and do better, I swear. But I am also haunted by what Anne Lamott’s friend Pammy said while the two were out shopping, two weeks before Pammy would die of breast cancer. “Does it make my hips look too wide?” Anne asked, trying on a slinky black dress. “Annie,” her friend said calmly, “you don’t have that kind of time.” None of us do. “That kind of time” eludes even the most prompt and vigilant, for time, I believe, is less quantifiable than we’re willing to admit. Time, instead, is always and ultimately of the essence. Precisely. Stephanie Hunt is a writer, mother and Sunday-morning speedster through the streets of Charleston, SC. She tries hard to emphasize the “fashionably” in fashionably late, but wearing jeans with tennis shoes does her no favors. She blogs, occasionally, with no deadlines and no set schedule, at alifestill.com.
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“I’m plain and normal,” he said.
I
“Can you accept me that way?”
Marna Ashburn Krajeski
’m a recovering college snob. Not a garden-variety snob like, “Are you a college graduate?” but an obnoxious one, as in “Where did you go to college?” Was it a prestigious school, perhaps an Ivy League or Seven Sisters? Having graduated from a top Virginia college, I could hold my own, but if I felt threatened, I would toss off casual references such as, “while my sister was at Yale,” thus assuring them (and me) of my academic pedigree. My first husband graduated from West Point and later earned a Master’s and Ph. D. in history. I flew helicopters in the Army, pursued graduate studies in English, and we lived the creed of relentless achievement. Our status in the meritocracy enabled us to hobnob with generals, senators, CEOs, and university presidents. “This is the pinnacle,” I believed, although afterwards my husband and I often drove home in silent, gnawing resentment. When the marriage ended after 20 years, I was crushed financially, emotionally, and socially. During the scorchedearth legal proceedings, I experienced a seismic event as I examined all my cherished notions and often found them wanting. I was still shuddering from the aftershocks 18 months later when I traveled to Indianapolis for my 30th high school reunion. At age 18, the nascent elitist in me had fled this working-class area, just a stone’s throw from the Motor Speedway, but over the years I’d reconciled to my home of origin. At the reunion five years earlier, I’d revived many friendships and was looking forward to seeing everyone at the homecoming game, followed by the motorcycle ride the next day. Since I didn’t own a bike, the coordinator, Scott, arranged for me to ride with his best friend, John. I remembered John from our high-school crowd. Tall and slender to the point of skinny, he was a blue-eyed baseball player, class officer, and the local newspaper carrier. When we were sophomores, he drove three other girls and me to school in his gold Cutlass until a new girlfriend entered his life. After graduation, he married her, I moved to Virginia, and we lost touch. Decades later, he was the divorced father of three. With a full head of dark hair and a distinctive crook in his nose from a sledding mishap junior year, he was still attractive in an endearing, grain-fed way. He’d had his share of hard knocks, but an understated and ready wit remained his signature characteristic, and one which I found irresistible soon after I climbed onto the back of his motorcycle. With no escape hatch, riding together for the afternoon could become an excruciating blind date. Fortunately, our past association eased any awkwardness; the rapport rolled by as smoothly as the familiar high school sites we passed— the homes where the Eddies and Billys and Bobbys of our adolescence lived, the summer league baseball diamonds, the boarded-up community pool. Soon I was mellow with nostalgia and captivated by my companion’s warmth and gentlemanly solicitude. Technically I didn’t have to wrap my arms around him quite so tightly when he accelerated unexpectedly. The back rest kept me secure, but I pressed close to him anyway and rested my head on his shoulder. At stop signs, his free hand lingered on my knee, a tender and transformative gesture.
“I have a crush on him,” I confided to Scott at the reunion party that evening. Before I finished my sentence, Scott spun my shoulders around and shoved me in John’s direction. “Don’t make me walk you through this, fer crissakes,” he said. “We’re 48 years old.” I couldn’t share my misgivings with Scott because they painted such an unflattering portrait of yours truly. “I can’t get involved with John. He doesn’t have a degree from a fancy college.” Put John’s resume next to your Master’s degree, snarled the snob in me: two years of welding school, 25 years delivering packages for UPS. He wasn’t my pre-approved model. But the chemistry was undeniable. John invited me to watch the Indianapolis Colts game the next night and offered to drive me to the airport on Monday. During breakfast at a strip mall near the high school, he’d insisted on sitting next to me in the booth, and we leaned together in quiet conversation. “You two seem like a real sweet couple,” the server commented as she refreshed my coffee. After I returned to the East Coast, John called, emailed, texted, and even sent a gorgeous bouquet of roses. I accepted these declarations of affection with reservation. “He doesn’t have a Bachelor’s degree,” I mewled to my girlfriends. “Neither does my husband,” replied one. “You’re knocking a lot of good guys out of the running.” Finally, a septuagenarian widow (whose husband didn’t have a degree while she had an MBA) broke through to me. “What you want when you’re 22 is different from what you want when you’re pushing 50.” What was important to me in the wake of a bitter divorce wasn’t the center hall Colonial or the social ladder or the gene pool. Feeling loved, cherished, and respected were paramount. I wanted to look forward to our time together and genuinely enjoy it. These qualities, I discovered, weren’t the exclusive province of the college-educated. In fact, given the disdain and coldness in my first marriage, there was little correlation. What John lacks in formal education, he makes up for with natural intelligence, charm, and a preference for conversation. His folksiness belies a keen perception, and he expresses the emotional heart of a matter in an astonishingly unencumbered way. Would he trade his Harley jersey for a monogrammed button-down and attend a play with me? If I invited him, he’d be good company and offer his unvarnished insights at a post-theater dinner. But he’s had his effect on me as well. On my frequent weekend visits back to Indiana, he’s coaxed me into setting aside my Saturday to-do list and joining him in his leatherette Barcalounger for an afternoon of NASCAR and Coors Lite. We can even have fun pumping gas into his truck, which has a 36-gallon tank and takes 15 minutes to fill. “I’m plain and normal,” he said. “Can you accept me that way?” I’ve decided I have a greater chance at happiness if I bring decent people with good character into my life, whether they attended an eye-popping university or have a degree from a community college. The conventional stamps and seals of success don’t mark the path to an authentic, loving connection. I’m going to stick with “nice” for now and see how it goes.
Marna Krajeski lives in southern Rhode Island with her two teenagers. She is the author of Household Baggage: The Moving Life of a Military Wife and Household Baggage Handlers: 56 Stories from the Hearts and Lives of Military Wives.
26 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
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He’s So Original
Chad Faries takes you back in time. For local author Chad Faries, Emily Dickinson’s words tattooed on his arm serve as a reminder: “Tell all the Truth but tell it slant—”. His new memoir, Drive Me Out of My Mind: 24 Houses in 10 Years, chronicles his rough-and-tumble upbringing by a raucous crew of unforgettable women. “I was the first man born to a family where you had a grandmother, my mom, my three aunts and me,” Chad explains. “Capturing their story I really had to be empathetic to what they were feeling as women.” The portrait he paints is one of beautifully flawed characters whom readers are still ultimately able to respect and connect with. These days, Chad enjoys a more stable home on Thunderbolt, but still gets the urge to take off down the open road. My favorite thing about reading skirt!? “The unique format and colorful design.” My favorite thing about wearing a skirt? “I felt so sexy, I thought I wanted myself!” Photo by Lottie Hedley
28 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
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SKIRT! STYLE MARCH
Dreaming in Green Clockwise from top left: Faux jade earrings from Madame Chrysanthemum, KUT Denim Jacket from Custard Boutique, emerald green dress from E.J. Scandal, caramel macramé and leather belt from Red Clover, pearl beaded necklace from Fab’rik, matching faux jade cuff from Madame Chrysanthemum, cork wedges from Red Clover, Big Buddha Malibu straw clutch from E.J. Scandal. Styling by Chassidy Law-Lucas of StyleHouse Consultant Firm.
30 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Watches by Toy Watch • Monochrome Collection, Neon Plasteramic Collection toywatch.com
Up to the Minute
The Charles Collection Clock
LEGO Brick Alarm Clock
shopSCAD 340 Bull St. 912.525.5180
Four Kids 8511 Ferguson Ave. Ste. C 912.238.1919
Ladybug Jelly Watch Magnolia’s of Savannah 7360 Skidaway Rd., Ste. E3 912.354.5353
32 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Sandfly Isle of Hope
34 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
LocalLoves Hometown Brews
Cards with Charm
Savannah’s own award-winning brewers, Moon River’s one-ofa-kind beers include sweet dark chocolate Captain’s Porter and Great American Beer Festival gold-medalist Rosemary IPA. St. Patty’s Day perfection! 21 W. Bay St. moonriverbrewing.com
Your card games never looked so good! The Nimbus Factory isisdesign a design boutique Factory boutique founded by SCAD alumnae Emily, Phyllis, Claire and Julia, specializing in functional—and adorable—illustrative design, paper goods, décor and more. Each suite in this deck of precious playing cards features a different royal family from the animal kingdom.
Party Time
Byrd’s famous cookies are a local tradition, but that’s not all they do! These retro cocktail shakers are filled with tasty snack mix, a must for any hostess. byrdcookiecompany.com
Savvy Suds
Created by “Jill-of-all-trades” Nicole Edge, Kleokatt Designs handcrafted soaps are dye and detergent-free, vegan friendly and come in scrumptious scents like ginger orange, lavender and lemongrass. etsy.com/ etsy.com/shop/kleokatt shop/kleokatt
Photo by Nicole Rule
Get these and more gifts at shopSCAD and custom design work from thenimbusfactory.com.
With Southern flair and an eye for the eclectic,Emily Bargeron has quickly become a favorite in Savannah fashion. Mamie Ruth,her line of handmade,eco-friendly designs have been featured at Charleston FashionWeek,in magazines and on runways all over the Southeast.She’s even tried her hand at a whimsical kids’ line,Mini Mamie,and Mister by Mamie menswear.Check out her to-die-for Spring/Summer collection at mamieruth.com.
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WaterS Way at the corner of Waters & Mall Blvd.
36
marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com
Meet Favorite TV Show Cake Boss.
Sarah Floyd, a14-year-old entrepreneur and cupcake artist of Sassy Cakes cupcakes. Always trying new recipes and flavors, her custom creations are as inventive as they are delicious.
Favorite Shoes My cowgirl boots.
If I Were a Cupcake I’d be Key Lime, sassy but sweet.
Favorite Flower Hydrangea.
Right Now I’m Reading From Head to Foot by Annie Downs.
Signature Scent Coach Poppy Flower and vanilla extract. Where I Shop Locally Polka Dots. My Workspace My family’s kitchen. My Gadget Ultimate cake-decorating organizer. My Pets Jessie the dog and Dennis, the World’s Largest Goldfish. Favorite School Subject Journalism.
Photo by Paul Goerner
Celebrity Crush Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum. My Muse Creating food that makes people smile. My Role Model My mom and cousin Laura.
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planetnikki [ a visual journal ]
I can’t wait for the day when knife-sharp winter winds shift into lettuce-crisp spring breezes.
When we can throw open the windows in the morning and see the world freshly made. When every leaf, branch and bud look like they’ve been washed in sunlight and hung out to
When we feel
dry.
the urge to plant a new idea and see it grow.
When we
can re-believe in rebirths.
You’re never too old to play. I love changing out Frida Kahlo’s Magnetic Wardrobe on my refrigerator. Another wonderful toy from philosophersguild.com.
On Constant Replay: I’m a sucker for sentimental, tearjerker movies and Country Strong is a prime example. I’m hooked on the Garrett Hedlund version of the Merle Haggard classic “Silver Wings.”
I had a vivid dream about joining a band of Sufi dancers, and a few weeks later without knowing about that, a friend gave me a nest of Sufi dancer bowls that he’d bought me in Turkey. Goosebumps synchronicity.
When I admired a friend’s necklace that her husband made out of foreign coins, she reached in her purse and gave me one of her extras. I love surprises!
I love the meta-ness of having an iPhone case that looks like a London phone booth, but it was hard to choose from the cool-ness available at society6.com.
Nikki Hardin is the founder and publisher of skirt! magazine. She blogs at fridaville.com.
38 marchw2012savannah www.skirt.com