April/May 2011

I S S U E 3 2 A P R | M AY 2 0 1 1

A PR-MAY USA $ 4 .95

SOU T HM AG A Z I N E .COM

contents ➼

south

apr | may 2011

| features

46

w h e r e t h e w i l d t h i ng s l i v e oat l a n d i s l a n d nat u r e p r e s e rv e g e t s a n e x t r e m e m a k e ov e r .

➼

b y Av e r i e S t o r c k

66

t h e e xc e l l e n t a dv e n t u r e o f couc h s u r f i ng

e x p l o r e t h i s q u i r k y u n d e r g r o u n d c u lt u r e .

88

➼

by jim r eed

b e st i n s h ow scad’s equestrian team rides in style.

136 w h o ’ s g ot ga m e

c h e c k o u t t h e b e s t r a b b i t, d u c k a n d w i l d b oa r dishes in the south.

12

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011

➼

b y a n i ssa d aw n m a n z o

contents ➼

south

apr | may 2011

| departments

[ LIVE ] 28 scenes of the south Parties, celebrations and anniversaries that were Scene in the South.

34

[ GO , STAY , SHOP ] 82 the beauty of motherhood A few local moms share the best parts about having a family.

34 South’s guide to extreme sports From hurricane surfing to extreme paintball, these sports are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.

40 come sail away Let the wind fill your sails and learn how to drop anchor on the coast.

86

40

96

86 SAV to ATL A short four-hour trip will take you straight to the state’s capital for a quick getaway.

96 coastal camping This guide includes the best advice on how to pitch a tent in the South.

[ MEET ]

[ EAT ]

62 cutting-edge art

134 Dishes to dine for

One Georgia artist uses high-powered gear to create his art.

Indulge in the pleasures of Spring. Try dining al fresco at one of these local hot spots.

74 stars of the south Profiles on some of the locals who make sure tourism continues to thrive.

136 who’s got game The best rabbit, wild boar and duck dishes in the South.

[ PLAY ] 142 art news and notes

62

134

146

Find out about the latest gallery openings and artist exhibitions.

144 an ultra adventure Think 26 miles is a long race? Savannah prepares to welcome its first ultra marathon, which stretches for 260 miles.

158 scenes of the south Parties, celebrations and anniversaries that were Scene in the South.

74 special advertising section: the south’s great staycation challenge ➼ page 100

14

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011

162 mouth of the south Savannah Dan shares secrets about the Hostess City.

publisher’s letter apr | may 2011

the art of the staycation

About the Cover

de a r r e a der s,

The art of the vacation begins with the plan. Actually, anything from a lunch meeting to a dinner party starts with some kind of plan, but I’m talking about actually taking your next getaway to the next level with some professional planning by South’s finest.

We all know balancing work, family and a myriad of obligations can make for everyday adventures. But we’d like to remind you not to forget the fun and exciting kind—the things you’d like to do, but don’t always find the time for.

Excitement and adventure doesn’t usually just happen. Most of the time, we have to do some research and planning. And where’s the fun in that? It’s an investment in time that’s hard for most of us to make. So we’ve done it for you: Welcome to South magazine’s third annual Outdoor and Adventure Issue, featuring a guide to staycations. And lucky for us, we live in Savannah, one of the nation’s largest playgrounds. You’ll find this issue packed with absolutely the best places to stay, play, shop and eat in and around our city.

The only thing we ask is that you send us your letters and photos and let us know how you enjoyed the tips. Your adventures will be featured on South magazine’s website. The person who submits the adventure judged to be most fun will win some more adventure and excitement! Go to southmagazine.com/myvacation to submit yours.

Now that you have your assignment, go dive the friendly skies and experience an adrenaline rush like no other. For something a bit more laid back, go on a wildlife safari at Oatland Island. For more ideas, visit our special Staycation section [page 100] for 61 more ideas on adding a bit of excitement to your life this spring.

And please, have the time of your life.

Many thanks and keep reading,

Michael Brooks, Publisher

cover: Lydia Yates photographer: Tim Johnson hair and makeup: Samantha Baskerville, Park West Salon and Karen Hough, Cade Booth, Dollface by Jules art director: Bonnie Youngman stylist: Mitchell Hall

A

nyone who has spent time in Savannah knows that between the shopping and dining in the Historic Landmark District, the wet and wild activities available on Tybee Island and everything in between, there’s no shortage of things to do in this city.

Just ask our Adventure Girl, who equipped with plenty of outdoor gear and a hand-carved knife crafted by local Robert White, tackled as much as she could. Now she’s hoping to inspire other thrill-seekers to do the same. If you want to follow in the footsteps of Adventure Girl, but don’t know exactly where and how to get started, we’ve got the perfect guide for you. * Gear and wetsuit provided by Half Moon Outfitters, watch from Levy’s Jewelers, bracelet from Globe Shoe Company.

16

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011

editor’s letter apr | may 2011

Feed your Adventurous Side I will happily be halfway across the world—not because I’m nervous about the release or the reactions of our readers, but rather because the Adventure Issue inspired me. In putting it together and meeting with local travelers and adventurers, I realized I needed a little excitement in my own life. The feeling hit me fast and was impossible to ignore.

And so, in a matter of about an hour, I decided to book a flight to Italy just three weeks before the departure date. Some people, particularly my family and close friends, were borderline angry with my decision, throwing around words like “hasty,” “dangerous” and “impatient.” Did I mention I’m traveling solo?

People certainly had opinions and gave me dozens of reasons why I should get a refund for my ticket: international unrest, the dangers of traveling alone, too much work to do and nowhere close to enough money saved. I heard it all. And that’s when I knew I had done the right thing. Because after all, is an adventure really an adventure without a little spontaneity and danger? So I didn’t look back, but I did agree to a strict calling schedule.

But I honestly never would have made the decision to take the trip without inspiration from some of the people who fill the pages of this issue. It all started with a special group of CouchSurfers, a unique community of adventurers who see travel as the ultimate pleasure and learning experience (See Jim Reed’s “The Excellent Adventure of CouchSurfing” [page 66]). But that’s only one way people around here get their kicks.

Peter Zink, writer and sailor extraordinaire, shares his firsthand account of how to get out on the water and let the wind fill your sails (See “Come Sail Away” [page 40]). And, if you need more of a physical challenge, take notes from the ultramarathoners, elite athletes that voluntarily sign up for races that span 260 miles, take five days to complete, and require them to camp or sleep by the road (See Kelly Skinner’s “An Ultra Adventure” [page 146]). I encourage you to read their stories and get moving on an adventure of our own!

But, no matter what kind of journey you decide to embark on, do it wholeheartedly and with passion!

W h e n t h i s i ss u e h i t s n e w ss t a n d s A p r i l 1 s t,

magazine

publisher/creative director Michael Brooks ➼ mb@thesouthmag.com managing editor Lauren Hunsberger ➼ lauren@thesouthmag.com art director Bonnie Youngman ➼ bonnie@thesouthmag.com advertising art director Hannah Clough ➼ hannah@thesouthmag.com senior account executive Kristine Ireland Compton ➼ kristine@thesouthmag.com account executives Lane Linahan ➼ lane@thesouthmag.com Victoria Turner ➼ victoria@thesouthmag.com Natalie Connell➼ nat@thesouthmag.com interactive account executive Preston Feiler ➼ preston@thesouthmag.com sales assistant Connie Gomez ➼ connie@thesouthmag.com marketing coordinator Erin Wessling ➼ erin@thesouthmag.com circulation and financial manager Jessica Lund ➼ jessica@thesouthmag.com web master Omar Mendez ➼ omar@thesouthmag.com assistant to the publisher Heather Myrick ➼ heather@thesouthmag.com fashion editor Mitchell Hall copy editor Kerri O’Hern contributing writers David Gignilliat, Kelly Skinner, Peter Zink, Averie Storck, Ezra Salkin, Travis Morningstar, Jim Reed, Wendy Marshall, Anissa Manzo contributing photographers John Fulton Photography, Tim Johnson, Josh Branstetter, Nicole Rule, Shawn Heifert, Michael Weinman, Eric Prine, Roxy & the Roxify Studio, Angela Hopper editorial interns Olivia Lauren Hawk, Amy Desselle, Sara Lynn McCall production and photography interns Katie Dunkle, Aaron Bernstein, Taylor Block, Lauren Lanier, Meredith Parker south magazine is published bimonthly by bad ink , brooks advertising

design, inc. reproduction by any means of the whole or part of bad ink without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. views ex-

pressed in the editorial pages do not imply our endorsement. we welcome

your product news. include prices, photos and digital files with your press

Lauren Hunsberger, Managing Editor

release. please forward product samples and media kits to reviews editor ,

south magazine,

116 bull street, savannah, georgia 31401. we cannot be responsible for unsolicited product samples. subscription rates: u. s.: $19 for one year; $28 for two years; single copies: $3.95. change of address notice: six to eight weeks prior to moving , please clip the mailing label from the most recent issue and send it along with your new address to: south magazine, change of address notice, 116 bull street, savannah, ga 31401, attn: circulation

south magazine: A Division of Bad Ink 116 Bull Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401 phone: 912.236.5501 fax: 912.236.5524 southmagazine.com

18

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011

p h otog r ap h y by j os h b r anstette r

contributors apr | may 2011

Research Editor for Vogue and Premiere magazines and wrote questions for TV’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. She loves exploring Savannah with her husband, David, and their 8-monthold daughter, Madeleine. r e a d averie’s work in “savannah’s wild

In 2008, Kelly Skinner embarked on her greatest journey to date when she set out southbound on the Appalachian Trail. While jumping along boulders in the Mahousac Notch, fighting gnarly blisters in Maine, climbing treacherous Mt.Katahdin, battling a personal fear of heights, and thumbing countless hitchhikes in the back of trucks, she caught the adventure bug.

Based out of Atlanta, Skinner’s other work can be found in magazines like Skirt!, The Atlantan, Lifestyles, Men’s Book Atlanta, Blush, Get Married Magazine and JEZEBEL. read kelly’s work

K E L LY S K I N N E R

in “an ultr a adventure” [page 144].

AV E R I E STORCK

Averie recently moved to Savannah from New York, where she earned her M.F.A. in screenwriting and directing from Columbia University. Prior to graduate school, she worked as a reporter for People magazine,

to contribute to

20

southmaga zine.com

sou th

side” [page 46].

T R AV I S MORNINGS TA R

The product of a dizzying childhood spent in Germany and Kansas, Travis can’t quite remember how he ended up in Savannah.

Admittedly, he is now unsure how one exits the sleepy little hamlet— Abercorn, maybe? While privately studying the antiquated art of sitcom writing, Travis attends Armstrong Atlantic State University as sport. Whether listening to NPR or reading stacks of television scripts, his pet rabbit is almost definitely chewing on laptop chargers and expensive headphones. r e a d t r av i s ’ s w o r k i n “cutting-edge art” [page 62].

S A R A LY N N

A Valdosta , Georgia native, Sara Lynn McCall

MCCALL

is a senior journalism major and will earn her BA from Valdosta State University in May. She’s spent her last semester of college living in Savannah as an editorial intern at South, and her goal is to become a writer and eventual editor for a magazine who shares her passion of all things creative. Her loves are writing, cooking (baking in particular), the beach and Florida State football. Her family and friends are her life. In the words of Jimmy Buffett, “Wrinkles will only go where the smiles have been.” read

in which his own stylistic interpretations merge seamlessly with a more traditional sense of photographic realism. see michael’s w o r k i n “ s ava n n a h ’ s w i l d s i d e ” [page 46].

sar a lynn’s work in “south’s guide to extreme sports” [page 34].

mic h ael w einman

Since the late 1960s, while in high school, Michael Weinman has had an avid interest in photography.

Traveling extensively throughout the Near and Far East, his early work centered on black and white cultural portraiture. Over the years, with the development of newer techniques and the maturation of style and craft, Weinman’s approach has evolved into a broader framework, experimenting with color and the creative filtering capabilities of the digital darkroom. His work now is an ongoing quest to distill a hybrid

nick j or dan

For more than a decade, photographer Nick Jordan has been the embodiment of Nicovision Studios. His photographic talent, prowess and professionalism have anchored Nicovision as a leader in high-end fashion, editorial and commercial photography. Pushing the boundaries of the medium and challenging the creativity of everyone involved in a project is what he does best. To him, photography is more than a profession; it is a window into the mind’s eye. Regardless, he enjoys creating work that exists beyond what is imagined. To view more of his work, please visit nicovision.com. see n ick’s wor k in “best in show ” [page 88].

magazine as a writer, photogr apher, intern or designer, email info@thesouthmag.com.

a pr il | m ay 2011

letters apr | may 2011 ➼

write to us at editor@thesouthmag.com or 116 bull street, savannah, georgia, 31401

FIVE YEARS IN THE MAKING

Dear Michael and team at the South magazine, Simply a brief note to say what a fantastic issue (Feb-Mar) of the South magazine. It is absolutely one of the best and keep re-reading it, as each time I finding something new. All the best.

—Maggie F. K eenan, E d. D. Cause Marketing & Bran d Ph ilanth ropy Strategist

PUBLISH ERS’ PRAISE

Congratulations on the 5th anniversary of the South magazine.

As a publisher, your publication ranks as one of my favorite reads, and I’m always impressed with the design, photography and creative content that fills every issue of the South magazine.

—M ic h ael Sun derman Presi dent & Publis h er , M 2 M e dia Corp.

Publis h ers of South M ississippi Living Magaz ine

Got the new mag today. It’s a beast. You guys busted your [butts] the last few weeks, I imagine. Very nice.

—Joseph W h ite Publis h er/ E ditor Jacksonville Magaz ine

PA R T Y O F T H E Y E A R

What a great party to celebrate five years of top-notch work.

You and your staff produce a wonderful publication, especially the great photography. Congrats on the first five, may there be many more.

– R ic har d Poncinie

South has done it. Five years later, and it should be a national magazine, and it will be someday.

– Peter nelson ➼ [cake design by minette rus h ing ]

22

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011

live T h e

a r t

•

rent a harley w r i t t e n b y s a r a ly n n m c c a l l

|

c u l t u r e

m u s i c

32 defying gravity

|

o f

t h e

b u s i n e s s

34 a guide to extreme sports

S o u t h

|

c u l t u r e

40 come sail away on the coast

46

where the wild things live

52

explore motocross

Jump start an adventure!

Savannah Harley-Davidson rents bikes at a daily rate to get travelers on the open road. “It’s an excellent way to get out and see Savannah and the surrounding area,” Rick Buckley, dealer operator and general manager, says. cost

Rates vary from $110-135 a day, and riders must be 21 years of age with a valid motorcycle license. A $2,000 security deposit on a major credit card is required, just in case. more info

#6 Gateway Boulevard West 912.925.0005 savannahhd.com

Go to southmagazine.com for a guide to daily life in the Lowcountry

24

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Ride in Style: Choose from a wide glide, a softail deluxe, a heritage softail classic or a fatboy model.

photo by ja m e s pu rv is

l

Savannah Slow Ride

LIVE

This isn’t your typical bike ride around Savannah. Savannah Slow Ride offers cruises around downtown Savannah on a 15-person bike. They offer a variety of routes and are open to suggestions if you have something special in mind. SundayThursday tours are $340 per ride (about $22 per person), and Friday and Saturday tours are $400 per ride (about $26 per person). This bicycle excursion lasts for a minimum of 2 hours and is $120 for each additional hour. Food and drinks are welcome, and you have to be 21 and up to step aboard. ➼ 9 1 2 . 4 1 4 . 5 6 3 4 o r v i s i t s a v a n n a h s l ow r i d e . c om

- by

S ara Lynn McCall

Segway of Savannah

Owner Samantha Meier says there are no history lessons on this ride, just a chance to have fun with 15 of your closest friends.

Motoring Around 3 way s t o g e t o u t o f yo u r c a r a n d t o u r t h e c i t y p h o t o g r a p h y b y j o s h b r a n s t e t t e r a nd o m a r m e nd e z

Vespas Did you know…the City of Savannah offers free parking to commuters who ride scooters? Savannah’s only authorized Vespa and Piaggio scooter dealer is located at 236 Drayton Street and is owned and operated by true Vespa enthusiasts. Motorini rents out Vespa Scooters from as little as 3 hours up to 24 hours. (rates range from $40 - $89) ➼ 9 1 2 . 2 01 . 1 8 9 9, V e s pa s ava n n a h .c om

- by

➼

26

Nicole Musgrove and Harry Green

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

amy desselle

Go green and still have fun experiencing the city. No experience is necessary to ride a Segway, but there will be a quick safety video and practice session before you head out. Choose between 1 or 2-hour guided tours ($45, $65) or take a self-guided tour.

Segway of Savannah offers rentals from an hour up to a week (rates range from $40$425). Stop by 102 East Liberty Street, Suite 106 to see all the options. ➼ 9 1 2 . 2 3 3 . 3 5 5 4 , S e g wayo f s ava n n a h . c om

- by

amy desselle

scenes of the south ➼

see more photos at southmagazine.com

apr | may 2011

➼ photogr aphs by tim johnson , shawn heifert and josh br anstetter

South Magazine’s 5th Anniversary Party

For the unveiling of South's first-ever collector's edition book, Faces of the South, an eclectic group gathered for a fifth anniversary party held at the Jepson Center for the Arts on Saturday, January 29.

3.

2.

1.

5.

4.

6.

7.

8.

8.

9.

28

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

10.

11.

scenes of the south ➼

see more photos at southmagazine.com

➼

apr | may 2011

photogr aphs by tim johnson , shawn heifert and josh br anstetter

South Magazine’s 5th Anniversary Party The black and white affair included a presentation hosted by WTOC anchor

Sonny Dixon and a silent auction with proceeds benefitting The Salvation Army.

2.

1.

3.

6.

7.

4.

5.

7.

1.

3.

5.

6.

9.

8.

30

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

9.

10.

➼ A Bird's Eye View: Tybee Island's North End

•

tour savannah's skies S i g n u p f o r p r i vat e f ly i n g l e s s o n s o r b o o k a n a e r i a l t o u r a n d n av i g at e yo u r ow n a dv e n t u r e ! w r i tt e n b y S a r a L y n n M c C a l l | p h oto g r a p h y b y jo h n f u l to n p h oto g r a p h y

1. Savannah Aviation One word describes flight instructor Michael Calarruda’s favorite thing about flying: freedom. Luckily, the owner of Savannah Aviation also loves to share his passion for taking flight in the Lowcountry, so don’t be afraid to take the steering wheel!

The Lesson Plan:

[i] 32

Back to School: The tuition cost of a private pilot course is about $6,715. For more info, visit savannahaviation.com.

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

➼ On the ground, students will learn basic ground skills and instrument instruction. ➼ Once in the air, students will learn the basics of flight turning, climbing and descending. The student is in control of the plane until it’s time for the landing. ➼ After five hours, students will start to land the plane themselves under the instructor’s supervision. ➼ After 12-15 hours, students can try a solo flight. ➼ After completing 40 hours, students will receive their private pilot license. Prices and packages vary.

34 Hangar Road, 912.964.1022, savannahaviation.com

2. Savannah Helitours Take the scenic route. You may think you’ve seen River Street or the beautiful coastal scenery, but we can guarantee you’ve never seen them like this. Savannah Helitours has a variety of options including helicopter tours, aerial photography, custom tours and our favorite—aerial picnics— to help adventurers get some fresh air.

➼ Fort Pulaski

AERIAL PICNICS: ➼ Palmetto Bluff Lunch ($300 plus cost of food): includes a short flight across the state border to one of Palmetto Bluff’s gourmet restaurants. ➼ Picnic for 2 ($350.00 +plus cost of food): Savannah Helitours will drop you off and pick you up at Wassaw Island, Williamson Island or Little Tybee. ➼ For pricing on numerous other packages and flights, visit savannahhelitours.com ➼ The Tybee Pier

3. Coastal Empire Flight Training School Experience a water landing. The instructors at Coastal Empire Flight Training School are ready to get you skyhigh as the only company in Georgia to offer certain types of seaplane flight training—among other services. They have offices in Savannah, Hinesville and Beaufort and offer flight training at four airports in and around the Savannah area. ➼ idreamofflying.com, 912.966.0630, Main Savannah Office; 912.368.2800 Fort Stewart/Hinesville Office

[i]

Did you know? A Cessna 172 can fly for 4 to 5 hours per tank (as far as New Orleans, Miami or New York).

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

33

th e sou th er n er's gu ide to:

w r i tt e n b y S a r a L y n n M c c a l l | p h oto g r a p h y b y r o x y a n d t h e r o x i f y s t u d i o

It's true that most of us can't get enough of Sunday night football and count down the days until the MLB playoffs, but why not think outside the box?

Over nine extreme sports can be checked off your list right here in Savannah. From hang gliding to windsurfing, there's something for the adventurous spirit in all of us. Ladies and gentlemen, start your adrenaline!

Skateboarding 1. Wo o dy ’ s S k at e Pa r k : Grab your board and your helmet and head to locally owned and operated Woody’s Skate Park, Savannah’s only all in one skate park and pro shop. It’s only $8 to skate, blade or bike, and they offer $5 equipment rentals. The proshop is filled with everything from shoes to decks to wheels. Get ready for an amped up skating experience. woodysramps r a i l s. c o m | 9 1 2 .9 2 5. 3 7 7 7 | s k at e @ wo o dy ss k at e pa r k . c o m

Hang Gliding 2. Savannah Hang Gliding Ever jumped off a steep cliff or been dropped by a plane so you can hang glide through the air? If not, Savannah Hang Gliding thinks it’s about time. They offer tandem hang gliding flights with an experienced pilot. Once you tackle the initial hang gliding experience, they offer powered hang gliders for an added adventure. savannahhanggliding. c o m | 8 0 0. 6 1 5.9 0 8 6

34

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

l

sk at eb oa

rdin g

Taylor Grose pe rforms an ollie transfe r.

LIVE

1

#

* Editor's Note: Skateboard ramp art

by South magazine featured artist, Matt Hebermehl

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

35

LIVE

l

Surf Kayaking 3. Savannah Canoe and Kayak This isn’t just paddling around in the ocean.

Nigel and Kristin Law, owners of Savannah Canoe and Kayak, offer a full range of classes depending on your skill level and gutsiness. One of the more advanced classes, called Combat Rolling, is designed to help you “stay in and keep moving.” If you’re up for battling waves, this definitely won’t just be another day at the beach. savannahcanoeandkayak.com | 912.341.9502 | info@savannahcanoeandkayak.com

Kiteboarding 4. A l l O u t K i t e b oa r d i n g Kites aren’t just made for a windy day at the park.

Here in Savannah, they’re made for hurling yourself across the water on a surfboard. All Out Kiteboarding, right at home on Tybee Island, offers courses for newbies and veterans. Their ultimate lesson "Kite or Die!" will teach you new techniques to add to your collection, from back-rolls to un-hooked riding. Kiteboarding is also a great leg workout — just an added bonus. A word to the wise — be prepared to crash. alloutkiteboarding.com| 912.786.8080

36

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

4

#

k it e b o

a r din g

Jet Skiing 5. Tybee Jet Ski & Watersports If heights aren’t your thing, but you’re still in need of some outdoor excitement, check out Tybee Jet Ski & Watersports. They have competitive prices to get you on a WaveRunner and jumping and making waves in the open water.

It’s time to get your speed on. Just don’t get so caught up that you forget to enjoy the picturesque scenery around you. t y b e e j ets k i . c o m | 9 1 2 .7 8 6. 8 0 6 2

Windsurfing and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding 6. White Cap Windsurfing Ready to get your heart pumping?

White Cap Windsurfing offers instruction in windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding, which has revolutionized non-motorized water sports all over the world.

These two sports have put a new

twist on surfing by making it possible for anyone who can swim. Owner Chuck Hardin says it’s as easy as riding a bike. In his words, “Once you ride a wave, no matter how small, it’s all over … you’ve got to do it again … and again.” w h i t e c a p w i n ds u r fing.com 706.833.9463 | whitecapws@hotmail.com

Skydiving 7. S ava n n a h S ky d i v i n g Need an adrenaline boost? Skydiving can give you that times about a thousand. Skydives can be made from a lofty 10 to 15 thousand feet. Free fall generally lasts about a minute, and then you’ll coast under the parachute for about seven to nine minutes.

You have a choice between tandem skydiving with an experienced instructor and an accelerated free fall for those of you with more independent spirits. Tan-

7

#

sk ydiv in

g

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

37

l

dem skydives are usually suggested for first-time skydivers, but either way, you’ll definitely walk away with something to brag about. savannah-

LIVE

s ky d i v i n g. c o m | 8 0 0. 2 6 0. 5 6 5 3

Hurricane Surfing 8. Tybee Pier at 16th Street We all know that Tybee Island isn’t known for its epic waves, but there’s nothing like tossing in some hurricane action. Occurring just before summer starts, hurricane season is known to dramatically improve Tybee’s surfing condition. The hurricane swell will make waves and crowd the beach with surfers and envious onlookers.

Scuba Diving 9. Diving Locker Ski Chalet Are you just as at home in the water as on land?

It’s time to get certified as an open water level one diver. Diving Locker Ski Chalet offers a program along with a series of five dives during two days of scuba diving to make that happen. They offer scuba gear to buy or lease. Once you're certified, take advantage of the many scuba diving trips throughout the year to get your ocean fix. d i v i n g l o c k e r s k i c h a l e t. c o m | 9 1 2 .92 7. 6 6 0 3

38

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

8

# hur r

ic a n

f e su r

i ng

er at s Snyd Thoma rn Surfing ste the Ea tion Georgia Associaict Contest.

Distr

l i saa y a w come

LIVE

l

a gu i de t o dr oppi ng a nchor Got a fe w days to get ou t on the water?

Try one of the se semi-secr et sa il ing spots r ight her e a long Sava nna h ’s coa st

➼

w r i tt e n b y p e t e r z i n k | p h oto g r a p h y b y e r i c p r i n e & L u i s M e l e n d e z

I never tire of the words cut the engine.

I spoke those words over two years ago as I raised two white sails in the air, as a friend and I faked our way down the Wilmington River.

It was a glorious moment — the dull constant putter of the motor stopped suddenly as I uttered the magic phrase, and the boat began to glide silently in a steady spring breeze. The transition from motor to wind never gets old.

Here on the coast nothing beats anchoring to enjoy a midday grill with friends or falling asleep to a good book, surrounded by nature. While sailing certainly has its challenges and frustrations, the awesome power and beauty of our Lowcountry waterways present opportunities hard to beat.

And spring is the ideal time to get started.

With clean breezes, moderate temperatures and a noticeable lack of gnats, it’s a good time for you to spend a night or two out “on the hook.” Here’re a few local spots I like to relax in.

40

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Herb River (Lat: 32.015 N, Long: 81.039 W) While not the most protected anchorage on this list, the Herb River is a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of the Intracoastal Waterway, and not too far from decent sailing in Wassaw Sound. You will often come across interesting sailors anchored here that are traveling up the Intracoastal after spending a winter in the Bahamas or Keys.

Located south of Thunderbolt but north of the Savannah Yacht Club, the Herb River is an easily accessible anchorage. It’s a fun place to break out the grill and have lunch, or spend a night and take a small dinghy ashore to nearby Thunderbolt. You can also wash down your burgers by taking a right at the second fork and heading up Country Club Creek to grab a Dark ‘n’ Stormy (see sidebar) at Bonna Bella Yacht Club. Be sure to watch your depth and only go in boats where the power lines work in your favor.

Talk like a Sailor Got your port and starboard mixed up?

Use this handy cheat sheet to drop a few w o r d s i n t o y o u r c o n v e r s at i o n a n d you ’ ll impress the saltiest of sailors

Port If you’re sitting in a boat and looking toward the front, it’s the left side. You can remember this easily because “left” and “port” have the same number of letters.

Starboard the opposite of port, the right side of the boat Bow the front of the boat Stern the back of the boat Mast the big stick coming straight up out of the sailboat Boom the smaller horizontal stick coming out the mast; bottom of mainsail attached Draft If your boat is an iceberg, this is the amount of feet underwater.

Mainsail the biggest sail; attached to the mast and boom Headsail or jib the sail furthest forward on the boat “On the Hook” a phrase to say you’re anchored somewhere, as opposed to docked somewhere Dark ‘n’ Stormy conditions you’d rather not be in; or, more importantly, the quintessential sailor’s drink of choice: dark rum (preferably Gosling’s), ginger beer, and a slice of lime

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

41

The Honey Jack Fitzgerald, a career freight forwarder, kindled a fascination with boats long before he entered the export business. In fact, the Coast Guard Master has been sailing his whole life.

“I was 10 when I started. Now, I’m 62,” he says with a drawl. Today Fitzgerald exports yachts for Sea & Sea, one of the largest sailboat manufacturers in North America and the same company that built his boat.

He came into possession of his prized Honey, an 11’8”x39’3” Sea & Sea 39 custom with a mast height of 63’9”, in 1975. Since, Fitzgerald and The Honey have voyaged and raced everywhere from The Bahamas to The Gulf.

“It’s a great way to take in life and your environment. Traveling at seven miles per hour, which is about the same speed as a dolphin, you see far more than you would barreling along on a powerboat. Sailing can be very simple or very technical. I can teach a kid how to captain in an hour. It taught my kids patience.” Still he says, like an oyster, it’s not for everyone.

Although Fitzgerald has won his share of Regattas, his proudest moments come from seeing the thrilled looks on people’s faces who for the first time are taking in his great sport. “To me, that’s worth more than all the silver and all the write-ups.”

- w r i tt e n b y e z r a s a l k i n

Jack Fitzgerald Captains The Honey, an 11’8”x39’3” Sea & Sea 39 custom.

Odingsell River (Lat: 31.873 N, Long: 80.998 W) When I venture offshore to play for a bit, I usually start from the Wilmington River and exit from Wassaw Sound. But be careful, the currents and waves get quite strong in this area, and the chop can toss around a smaller sailboat in strong winds. More than one passenger has wound up in the fetal position belowdecks or hanging off the side at this point. So check the weather and pick your days carefully when heading to Odingsell. Stay well clear of the breakers and wrap around the backside of the island. Once you’re in Ossabaw Sound, you’ll notice the Odingsell River to the north. It’s a large, deep anchorage that offers many options. I like to anchor in either Wassaw Creek, where the trees from the barrier island provide solid protection, or head all the way up the river into Romerly Marsh for more seclusion. During the day try docking at the Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge and wander the nature trails and “boneyard” beach of gnarled trees. The park closes at sundown, so hop onboard before then.

42

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

To be a Sailor, You Must...

Walk like a Sailor

fashionable footwear to walk the decks...

left: Cushe Shasta $75, right: Cole Ha an with nike air sole, Air mercury navy leather, $98 Available at Globe Shoe Company, 7 East Broughton Street, 912.232.8161, 5500 Abercorn Street #43, 912.352.1158

Delegal Creek (Lat: 31.890 N, Long: 81.062 W) Don’t let those yellow caution signs and multiple channel markers get you down as you approach the mouth of Delegal Creek. Located between the backside of Skidaway Island and Green Island on the Ossabaw Sound, this is a favorite anchorage of mine. While I’ve trapped myself in the creek for a prolonged time after failing to note a 3-foot sandbar at low tide, it’s a beautiful place to kill some time. As you anchor inland, you’ll find yourself surrounded on three sides by tall stands of trees to protect you from the wind, and a tranquil place to sleep for the night. If you want to shake out your sea legs and walk the land a bit, the Delegal Creek Marina nearby allows you to do so.

Cane Patch Creek (Lat: 31.816 N, Long: 81.142 W) If I’ve had a great day sailing in Ossabaw Sound and I’ve still got some weekend left, venturing further south through Hell’s Pass and the Florida Passage to Cane Patch Creek in Ossabaw Sound is a good bet. Hell’s Pass is a narrow channel with shallow water on either side, and it likes to push your boat off course if you’re not careful. So motor through if you don’t have enough power to stay in the markers. Once you’re clear though, Cane Patch Creek offers plenty of room for even larger 45- to 50-foot boats to anchor.

peter zink Sets sail on a 1986 Catalina 25 nicknamed Serenity.

IN T ER IOR DE SIR E S:

The Nautical Effect S p r i n g i s h e r e s o s p ru c e u p yo u r s pac e w i t h t h i s nau t i c a l d e c o r f o r a ta s t e o f t h e c oa s ta l l i f e s t y l e w r i tt e n b y s a r a l y n n m c c a l l | p h oto g r a p h y b y a a r o n b e r n s t e i n

2

1. S a n t e F e S t y l e Ad i r on dac k C h a i r : [$ 1 9 0] , C o a s ta l G e o r g i a

5

Wo o dwo r k s , c g awoo dwo r k s .c o m

2. C u st om M on o g r a m P i l l ow

3

[$ 9 0] , Sy lv e s t e r & C o m pa n y, 2 0 5 B r ou g h t on S t r e e t, 9 1 2 . 2 3 6 . 1 1 5 0

3. B a m b o o S a l a d S e r v e r s [$ 47] , Sy lv e s t e r & C o m pa n y, 2 0 5 B r ou g h t on S t r e e t, 9 1 2 . 2 3 6 . 1 1 5 0

4. C oa sta l S e r i e s B o o k s [$ 3 7 5] , O n e F i s h T wo F i s h , on e f i s h st o r e . c om

4 1 44

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

5. D o o r st o p K n o t [$ 4 9.9 9] , Sy l v e s t e r & C o m pa n y, 2 0 5 B r ou g h t on S t r e e t, 9 1 2 . 2 3 6 . 1 1 5 0

Cuban Tree Frog Eastern Box Turtle Gopher Tortoise indigo snake Eastern Glass Lizard Eastern Collared Lizard Eastern Kingsnake Red Rat (Corn) Snake Broadhead Skink American Alligator Brown Pelican Green Heron White Ibis Black-crowned night-heron Domestic Goose Pekin Duck American Bald Eagle Red-shouldered Hawk Red-tailed Hawk Cooper's Hawk Peregrine Falcon Domestic Chicken Domestic Turkey Sandhill Crane Barn Owl Great Horned Owl Barred Owl Eastern Screech Owl Virginia Opposum Nine-banded armadillo Flying Squirrels Domestic Rabbit Domestic Donkey White-tailed Deer Domestic Pig Domestic Sheep Domestic Cow Nigerian Dwarf Goat American Bison Seba's Short-tailed bat Bobcat Cougar Gray Wolf Red Fox •

s.

thelowcountry's

SIDE

Roaming wolf packs, exotic birds and a group of pot-bellied pigs all call Oatland Island home. large furry sheep and fast foxes mingle with alligators and turtles.

An d w h i l e i t mW ay at fo e oto b e gaarpsh yto e a te h ost, RI TsTee ENmBYnA v eurra ie l Sto r crk t |h ph b y ru mil ch l e w eri o nm a n i t ' s t h e lo ca l kids who visit and learn from the animals that really run this nature preserve

An extreme home makeover on an 84-year-old building isn’t unusual in historic Savannah. Neither is the fact that the mansion — a stately red brick Georgian colonial with grand white Ionic columns and gracious, glass-enclosed walkways overlooking live oaks and magnolia trees – has a tabloid-worthy past. (In this case, a former hospital for syphilis and a center for experiments on radioactive mosquitoes – but more on that later). But what is unusual are the mansion’s neighbors — a real wild bunch: Rocky the armadillo, Wa Hoo Hoo the owl and Esmeralda the gopher tortoise, to name a few.

At Oatland Island Wildlife Center, the 175-acre environmental education and animal habitat facility five miles east of downtown Savannah, you learn to expect the unexpected.

46

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

On a recent afternoon, Dottie the sheep and Streaker the pig nibbled on veggies from the new organic garden tended by staffers from Whitemarsh Island’s hip, environmentally responsible restaurant Thrive, A Carry Out Cafe. Down the trail, SCAD performing arts students studied animal behavior for a class on character development. Tweens from a local middle school were freaking out about the wolf pack — not the Taylor Lautner/Twilight variety but something way cooler — a real wolf pack. And now the completion of a $5 million renovated main building brings new energy to the 37-year-old wildlife refuge.

“If you haven’t visited OIWC lately, you’re going to be surprised,” says Kris Posman, WSAV News 3 chief meteorologist and board member of the Friends of Oatland, a nonprofit organization that provides physical and financial support to the center’s owners, the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools and Board of Education. “With two kids, I’m always looking for things to do on the

➼ Timber Wolves - Canis lupus

➼ Sandhill Cranes - Grus canadensis

➼ Shetland Sheep

a pr il | m ay 10

southmaga zine.com

47

“Children don’t get as excited about science if they’re reading it out of a textbook as when they’re seeing it and feeling it and smelling it and experiencing it.”

– Heather Merbs, director of OIWC.

Red Fox - Vulpes vulpes

Bronze Turkey

Cuban Tree Frog - Osteopilus septentrionalis: he may look cute, but smiley and his clan members are actually an invasive species.

Shetland Sheep

48

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

weekends. OIWC provides an environment where they can have a fun time, and yet I am still able to educate them … and keep their attention.”

“The center is a fabulous community asset,” states Sandi Roth, president of FOO. “Families can have a lovely time exploring. And instead of mall walking, empty nesters can walk the trails and get fresh air,” Roth enthuses. “So many times people just drive by without stopping. And I’ve heard 40- and 50-year-olds say, ‘I went there when I was a kid.’ But they forget we’re here. We want people to rediscover Oatland Island Wildlife Center.”

Of course, children have always been in on the secret. Each year, over 20,000 students take part in the center’s more than 30 programs. Run by the center’s four certified teachers and two naturalists, the programs are written to satisfy current Georgia Performance Standards.

“Children don’t get as excited about science if they’re reading it out of a textbook as when they’re seeing it and feeling it and smelling it and experiencing it,” says Heather Merbs, director of OIWC. “Whereas children a generation ago spent a huge amount of time outdoors, now they’re indoors playing video games. We have many children here in Savannah who are literally surrounded by water but have never been on a boat. And a lot of the very young children think that food originates at the grocery store. Our goal is to reconnect children with nature.”

The main building, conceived as a grand Southernstyle retirement community for the Order of Railway Conductors, was built in 1927 for about $350,000.

When the number of retirees dwindled in 1941, the home was sold to the U.S. Public Health Service and became a hospital for women and children who suffered from syphilis — “which is something we didn’t know for a very long time,” says Merbs.

In 1946, the property became a research laboratory for the Malaria Control in War Areas. Here’s where the building’s history becomes positively sci-fi: the scientists conducted sometimes bizarre experiments, one consisting of dipping mosquitoes in a solution containing radioisotopes and then measuring their flight range. And what was the Spider-Manworthy result? Some of the “hot” mosquitoes flew almost 20 miles in one day. Eventually, the “No-Pest

Join the Friends of Oatland left to right: Ouida Bayfield, Spencer Luke, Patricia Stephens, Sandi Roth Cripe, Walter Clayton, Suzy Willis

Join The Friends of Oatland (FOO) and help support the center Who are the friends?

Friends of Oatland is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to supporting Oatland Island Wildlife Center. Currently there are about 600 members.

How do you become a friend?

To learn more about the benefits and membership tiers of FOO, visit friendsofoatland.org.

Membership can also be purchased on your next visit out to the center!

What are the benefits?

Annual memberships come with many benefits.

All members are granted free general admission, discounts for selected special events and the Oatland Observer Newsletter. The higher membership tiers have additional exciting benefits such as discounts in the gift shop and a birthday party at OIWC (for up to 25 people).

Strips” were invented here, which led to the development of flea collars.

When the scientists were moved to Atlanta in 1973, a teacher named Tony Cope presented a proposal to make the site into an environmental education center.

The proposal was accepted and the school system entered into a 30-year lease with the federal government. In 2004, the Board of Education became the sole owner of the property.

Since renovations began June 15, 2009, a chainlink fence has surrounded the building, and staffers worked out of trailers. “There was not a window or a door or a wall in this building not under construction,” explains Merbs.

Red-shouldered Hawk - Buteo lineatus

Screech Owl - Otus asio

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

49

oatland's most beloved...pig

50

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

The 18-month wait to move back in was worth it. The main lobby, with original crown molding on the columns and a sweeping staircase, was dramatically opened up by tearing out walls of a small office and gift shop. Extending to the south wing, a grand walkway with soaring windows now exists where storage once was.

The entire second floor, which had been unusable due to asbestos and lead paint, was completely redone and now boasts new airy classrooms, a library and staff offices.

In all, the renovation, which was funded through ESPLOST (Educational Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax), tripled the useable guest space of the building, upgrading event and party spaces, providing central air, and creating a new veterinary clinic with a surgery room, x-ray room and public viewing windows. Merbs says this new clinic is “one of the most exciting things about the building .”

In addition to the 2011 reopening of the welcome center, the past few years have brought other changes. In 2007, the Alligator Wetlands exhibit debuted. That year also brought a name change—from Oatland Island Education Center to the more dynamic Oatland Island Wildlife Center of Savannah, and an expansion of the center’s operating days to include Sundays.

In 2008, the resident wolves got upgraded digs in an $180,000 Wolf Wilderness exhibit where a climate-controlled cabin allows people to get up close and personal with the wolves—from behind high-pressure, 6-foot-high windows. The exhibit brought in some new arrivals: Seba’s short-tailed bats and the very popular Rocky, along with his fellow nine-banded armadillos.

In 2009, cougars Comanche and Talieka got Lexan windows to replace chainlink fencing, and two Eastern indigo snakes joined the OIWC family. Then, last October, beloved Doris the bison died and the two new bison girls, Lakota and Sioux, were added to keep George the bison company.

These newcomers joined the 75 animals that already called OIWC home — all of which are indigenous to Georgia. “We focus on native species,” says Merbs.

a $5 million renovation brought this state-of-the-art education center to life.

“We’re showing people what has actually lived here and what does live here.”

More special events and programs have also been created. Toddler Tuesdays has become all the rage with youngsters, and this is the second year of Fairy and Toad House Day, where kids can enter a fairy housebuilding contest using all natural materials. Most of all, though, excitement is brewing over the Summer Camp, which is bigger and better than ever this year.

What’s next for OIWC? A priority on their wish list is an upgraded bear habitat so that the center can bring in new bears to replace Baby Bear, a 28-year-old black bear who died of heart failure in 2008. This spring, FOO plans to launch a capital campaign. “Our goal is for 1,000 local community businesses, individuals or organizations to give $1,000 over a period of two years,” explains Roth. "There’s a great deal of passion for this place,” says Merbs, who, along with the staff and supporters, celebrated the renovation at a March 5 ribbon cutting and VIP event. And that passion is contagious.

With cool locals (well, cold-blooded), a great nightlife (like Family Campfire Night), and a new look, OIWC is definitely trendy. Says Merbs, “We are so excited about where we’re heading.” visit oIWC at 711 Sandtown Road. For more information, go to oatlandisland.org or call 912.395.1212

oatland's carol suttle uses animals like Daisy to educate children.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

51

p h o t o g r a p h y by J OHN F ULTON P HOTOGRA P HY w r i t t e n b y S a r a Ly n n M c C a l l

52

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

S OU T H :

s l i a r T e h t g n i t t i H

D irt Fa r m O f f Roa d M X Pa r k

Located just 12 miles south of Folkston, Georgia, Dirt Farm Off Road MX Park is the ideal spot for riders ranging from brave daredevils to timid beginners. The facility offers a motocross track, youth track, RV campground, burn out strip and one-mile woods trail. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends, the cost is $20 per rider, and weekday lessons are available by reservation for $25. It’s time to hit the gas and let this physical, fast-paced sport get you moving. ➟ 912.496.1111, powersportz.com

a pr il | m ay 10

southmaga zine.com

53

54

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

“Dedication and determination are common to most of the athletes who race motocross. It’s a family sport and racing becomes a lifestyle for many who start at an early age.”

-Tony gooch, owner

a pr il | m ay 10

southmaga zine.com

55

meet T h e

o f

f o l k s

c h a r a c t e r s

• r a a b s t r ac t t h i n k i n g

58 savannah sabers

|

t h e

S o u t h

c o m m u n i t y

62

a cuttingedge artist

66

the adventure of couchsurfing

74

stars of the south

written by amy desselle

Chances are you’ve seen Raabstract’s artwork and not even realized it. Since 2002, she has been establishing a strong presence in Savannah’s thriving art scene and now her fine art photography, graphic design, stickers and decals can be spotted in restaurants, bars and galleries all around town.

➼ Adventure Artist: Raabstract’s work is literally plastered across the city.

Raabstract’s Starland Districtbased business is a true representation of the artist.

From her quirky design style and creative guerilla marketing strategy to her passion for networking and building brands up from the ground floor, Rabbstract is a one-of-a-kind designer—and thinker. more info

Rabbstract.com raabstract@mac.com 912.233.1095

Go to southmagazine.com for the full article

56

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

photogr a ph y by josh br a nstetter

vicky carney

Trina Pinkney Dennika Veal

beth wolfe D e v i n S u dd a t h

danielle coleman jessica key

Gridiron Girls o n A p r i l 2 S ava n n a h ’ s i n au g u r a l Wo m e n ’ s F o o t b a l l A l l i a n c e l e ag u e h e a d s t o j ac k s o n v i l l e t o s ta r t k i c k i n g ta i l a n d ta k i n g n a m e s photography by aaron bernstein

D

uring the day, these women suit up as massage therapists, bus drivers and business owners among other things, but the when the workday ends, the 30 plus women who make up the Savannah Sabers trade their work clothes for heavy pads, cleats and bright orange football uniforms. They make up the city’s first Women’s Football Alliance league and they are one tough bunch. They are also a diverse bunch. The players range in age from twenty to mid-forty. Some are dressing out for the very first time and others are veterans of the WFA, bringing experience from other states that have had teams for almost a decade. But no matter their background, they all have one thing in common: a serious amount of guts.

The season officially opens on April 2, so whether they are playing away in Jacksonville or on their home turf at the Garden City Stadium, get ready to show them your support. Meet your Savannah Sabers. south magazine: Why did you decide to join the league?

I love contact sports, period.

I wanted to get out there and hit someone. I’m not a violent person, but it’s a great way to release tension. It’s a great outlet.

Jessica Key:

Trina “Freight train” Pinkney:

58

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Vicky Carney: I started 9 years ago. I played in Louisville on the inaugural [WFL] team. I thought I was done…but then when the league got started, I knew I had to play.

Danielle Coleman: I’m really into staying in shape. I got bored with the gym, and I saw a flyer. I fell in love with it from the first practice.

It also gets out some pent up aggression.

Dennika Veal: I wanted to meet new people and wanted the closeness of being part of a team.

south magazine: What’s the greatest challenge?

You’re using your body a lot more, so there are a lot more aches and pains.

Devin Suddath: The hardest part is not getting frustrated when you have a bad practice. The most important thing though is that we’re a big family and that we connect as a family. We depend on each other on the field.

Carney: It’s brutal. It’s hard on your body. We’re not spring chickens anymore.

Coleman: The biggest challenge is trying to work around schedules.

Also, keeping your body healthy and in shape.

Pinkney:

Power Player Fullback Andi Pigneri led the drive to start the Savannah Sabers. After playing for two years in Louisville, when she moved to the city, she decided she wasn’t ready to give up the sport. The rest is history. “There are so many positive things I get out of football,” she says. With full support of the community, she says it’s been a lot of work, but they are now ready to show the city what they are made of.

south magazine: What does it feel like to be a pioneer for young girls who previously thought the sport was inaccessible?

My daughter thinks it’s amazing that her mom plays football.

It’s an honor to be considered a role model for young girls so they know women can do just as much as men. I don’t think sports should be defined by whether you’re male or female.

Carney: It’s awesome that we blazed the trail. Little girls have options now, and I think it’s awesome we get to be the pioneers.

Coleman: They see women who are strong and empowering. It’s a great eye opener for them.

Key:

Suddath:

For more information and a complete schedule, visit savannahsabers.com. To learn more about the Women’s Football Alliance, a non-profit organization that has more than 50 teams all over the country, visit wfafootball.com.

60

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011 11

62

CUTTING EDGE ART

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

d e e p i n t h e b ac k wo o d s o f g e o r g i a , e q u i p p e d w i t h n o t h i n g b u t h is c r e at i v i t y a n d a c h a i n s aw, t h o m a s b l a n d c r e at e s m a ssi v e p i e c e s o f a r t. a f o r e s t e r by t r a d e , h e ’ s s p e n t h is w h o l e l i f e si z i n g u p l o g s a n d l u m b e r , b u t n ow h e l o o k s at trees from a new perspective W r i t t e n B y T r av i s M o r n i n g s t a r | p h o t o g r a p h y b y J o h n F u lt o n P h o t o g r a p h y

A

And so he did, with great fervor to boot. In fact, dmittedly, it would be easy to dismiss a wooden bear carving standing 7 feet tall Bland took to the skill so easily he became his only as the work of some mad forest recluse. mentor, teaching himself from day one. His so-called obsession was not one born This, howevof circumstance but rather er, becomes an innate affinity for the an increasingly remote material with which he possibility when in the works with every day. Like presence of the forces any artist worth his weight that created it — both the in lumber, Bland apprecichainsaw and its wielder, ates the finer points of his Thomas Bland. wooden medium as well as “I wake up every Satits unique drawbacks. urday morning, around 1 “Wood has the habit of or 2, and just carve all checking — that just means day,” says Bland, unfazed ‘cracking.’ So before you by the uniqueness of his start carving, you need to task. “It’s become quite be aware of where these an obsession, actually. cracks will develop,” Bland Every night I’m thinking cautions. “It’s also very of what to do next.” versatile in that you can Bland, a forester by burn it as well as stain it. trade, appears naturally But what I love about it is suited for the peculiar art just studying the different of chainsaw carving and “I wake up every Saturday mornproperties of each type of its unorthodox process. wood — they’re like differAs part of his profession, ing, around 1 or 2, and just carve ent species of animals, rehe’s spent a lot of time all day,” says Bland, unfazed by ally. I mean, cedar has this wa l k i n g t h r o u g h t h e the uniqueness of his task. “It’s romantic scent, and oak is woods, literally appraisbecome quite an obsession, actualways very sappy.” ing tracts of timber, surBland’s work is not veying the forest’s quality, ally. Every night, I’m thinking of only prodigious, it’s also much like a real estate what to do next.” happily eclectic, making agent appraising a house. him somewhat ahead of the However, Bland’s transition to wood sculpting enthusiast wasn’t as obvious curve in terms of chainsaw artists. Whereas the stana leap as some would assume. His calling didn’t take dard focus of a woodcarving tends to range from large bear to a slightly smaller bear, Bland has branched flight until just a few years ago.

“About five years ago, I was in the mountains of out and finds a certain poetry in his various subjects.

“I myself can make, at most, four bears a year Tennessee and for a hundred bucks I brought home this strange little bear carving,” Bland recalls. “After before becoming totally burnt out. Luckily, I can draw a while of looking it over, the details and the technique inspiration from the local wildlife here and take my that went into it, I began to think to myself, ‘Wait a carvings into interesting directions with alligators, shrimp, armadillos, beavers, pigs, cows and ducks,” minute. I can do this, easily.’” a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

63

The Power of Art: Every year, Bland heads to Ridgway, Pennsylvania for a massive gathering of chainsaw art enthusiasts.

Bland says. “My favorite, by far, would have to be carving fish. There are so many varieties to work from, and I’ve knocked out about 25 separate kinds already. Creating the illusion of movement is something I find unique to sculpting fish in particular. It’s also quite a challenge — which is something you tend to search for after a while.”

The wildlife Bland refers to belongs to the Altamaha River tributary that flows beside Reidsville. The Altamaha has been deemed “One of America’s Last Great Places” as it retains more than 120 rare or endangered species of animals. It’s no wonder Bland finds inspiration every time he steps outside of his residence in Reidsville, a place he describes as “a pleasant, mostly rural area dotted with farms.”

But perhaps the most surprising thing about Thomas Bland, chainsaw artist extraordinaire is that he is by no means alone in his seemingly niche undertakings. In fact, during the last week of February, he takes part in a mass pilgrimage of sorts, which ends in Ridgway, Pennsylvania, for what Bland describes as the “Super Bowl of chainsaw art.”

“The chainsaw art community is actually pretty large, but the thing is it’s very widespread,” Bland says. “We only get to become a real community in online forums, where we have the opportunity to share advice and information about shows that happen around the country. I’ll talk to hundreds of people at these events and, inevitably, you get some people who are just in awe of, say, a 6-foot-tall wooden Indian. They say, ‘You didn’t carve that with a chainsaw!’ To which I reply, ‘Nope, I took care of 64

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

it with my pocket knife!’”

This kind of incredulity is something Bland encounters frequently and has become accustomed to. When asked about the preconception of woodcarving as only folk art, his answer suggests a deep respect for the art form and for those who continue to master it.

“People will look at this kind of work and think ‘folk art,’ and I think that’s fine,” Bland says. “A lot of my own work is, in fact, made from the land, the indigenous wood of where I live, and so you can’t really deny the folksiness of that. But if you look at someone like Bob King, one of the best chainsaw carvers out there, you’ll see that there’s an amazing amount of talent there. I mean, he could carve your likeness out in a block of wood, no problem. And a lot of his work sells for thousands of dollars, which doesn’t seem that ‘folksy’ to me.

It’s chainsaw artists like Bob King, of Washington state, that keep Bland sharpening his skills, as it were. Bland reminisces about past competitions where he felt as if he was the outsider when he found himself competing with world-class champions of the trade. But now, more often than not, he comes away with a different notion, such as in his most recent outing in North Carolina, where he walked away with the third-place trophy.

“I get to these competitions, and I see all these greats and I just want to sneak away,” says Bland. “But then we talk and I realize we all have this talent and these people, these Bob Kings, are just like me.

meet

m

The excellent, quirky, dicey, unusual, cheap, up-andcoming, internationallyrecognized, adventure of

couch

surfing

Picture this: you go online to check your e-mail, and find a message from a total stranger. He lives in another city—better yet, a foreign country. He’s coming to the U.S. in a few weeks and plans on spending time in Savannah. He’d really like to save some money on hotels—plus, everyone knows it’s always preferable to have a friendly local show you around a new town.

With that in mind, he heard you might have a couch or a spare bed available. Could he crash with you for a couple of days? written by Jim Reed photography by josh branstetter

66

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

“

If you’re interested in trying this out, you have to be open-minded.

Because you’re going to meet a wide range of peeps. Black, white, rich, poor, young, old, guy, girl, Baptist, Jewish, hippies, professionals, partiers, and the list goes on.

-James Holmes

”

Name: James Holmes

Lived in Savannah: 12 years

Hosted surfers from: 13 different states,

Age: 43

Vocation: Independent figure model

Hometown: Frogmore, South Carolina

Number of times as host: 36

Switzerland, France, China, Canada, Mexico, England, Israel, Turkey, New Zealand

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

67

meet

m

Name: Summer Teal

Simpson Age: 28

Vocation:

Hometown: Highlands, North

Carolina

68

southmaga zine.com

Lived in Savannah:

5 years

a pr il | m ay 11

Executive director of the Savannah Stopover

Number of times as host: 2 Hosted surfers from: New York,

Austria

W

hat would you do in a situation like this? Chuckle? Hit delete and forget about it? Recalibrate the Spam Filter on your Gmail? Well, if you’re one of almost 100 adventurous folks in our fair city, you’d actually take a few minutes to do a cursory check on the stranger’s background, and based on that information might seriously consider saying yes and setting a time to meet.

No, this is not a story pitch for a low-budget slasher film, nor is it a setup for the sordid tale of — in the words of songwriter Neil Young — a “mindless drifter on the road, carrying a heavy load.” Rather, it’s a cut-to-the-chase description of a common occurrence in the lives of the CouchSurfing International community, a feverishly expanding worldwide network of easygoing travelers and hosts banding toTravelers, gether to provide safe, completely free lodging with an emphasis on shared experiences, globetrotters, bridging socio-political gaps and encouraging those with lasting friendships. With almost 2.5 million wanderlust, members spanning across 245 countries and territories, CouchSurfing is increasingly we comprise a becoming the preferred method of seeing the community all world — both near and far from one’s home. our own — and “I love traveling,” explains Erin Brinton, “and CouchSurfing is a phenomenal way to we understand a meet locals, explore places I otherwise would common language. not see, and experience life.” Brinton was I wanted to support researching places to stay in Costa Rica when she stumbled across CouchSurfing.org (the that community and nonprofit’s official website) in spring 2009. had the means She registered online and a mere two weeks to do so. later stayed for free in a private Costa Rican home. Since then, she’s traveled throughout -Summer Teal Simpson the USA and to four other countries — CouchSurfing all the way. When asked for any positive anecdotes from her experiences as either a surfer or a host (she’s been both), Brinton practically gushes.

“There have been millions! In Costa Rica, I was the first guest in my host’s new swimming pool. In Cusco, Peru, my host was an excellent tour guide and became a good friend who taught me Spanish! I went to Bar Internacional in Monterrey, Mexico, where we danced all night. As a host, I’ve seen most of what Savannah has to offer with my surfers. My German ‘CSers’ were shocked that we could drive through Bonaventure Cemetery, and loved kayaking, while the Australians really enjoyed Tybee Island. I always like to try the [native] food wherever I go, and CouchSurfing with locals is a great way to find things you might not otherwise eat.”

Truth be told, every single active CSer I have spoken with was just as quick and enthusiastic to express their love and support for this movement — mostly for the same basic reasons. Summer Teal Simpson had plenty of prior experience traveling abroad on extended private “homestays,” but was unfamiliar with the more standardized system that CouchSurfing Intl. has developed for bringing together hosts and those in need of a safe and welcoming place to rest.

“I’ve met the most fantastic people on my journeys,” says Simpson. “Travelers, globetrotters, those with wanderlust, we comprise a community all our own — and we understand a common language. I wanted to support that community and had the means to do so. It’s a great way to meet people and make friends who, in turn, would support me in my travel time of need. In a world so fearful and divisive, it gives me joy to know something like this exists.”

“

”

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

69

meet

m

Name: Chad Duncan

Name: Tess Marine Housley

Age: 26

Age: 25

Hometown:

Hometown:

Greene, Minnesota Lived in Savannah:

Savannah, Georgia Lived in Savannah:

2 years

Off and on her whole life

Vocation:

Vocation:

Pedicab driver/ University of Southern Maine student Number of times surfed: 5

Restaurant work on Tybee /owns a pet sitting service Number of times surfed: 12 to 15 Number of times

Number of times as host: Many Locations visited:

Tennessee, North Carolina, New York, Nebraska, Texas

Hosted surfers from:

All over the world

as host: At least 100 Locations visited:

Tennessee, North Carolina, New York, Nebraska, Texas, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Spain Hosted surfers from: North America, Latin America, Europe, Australia, Asia

Tess Marine Housley is another devout believer who has hosted over 100 CSers in her home since joining the site four years ago. There was a period of almost a year where she reckons she hosted at least one surfer every day, and at times, many more. She admits to having nervous jitters before picking up her first guest. “But,” she adds, “as soon as we met, that all melted away and it was a very natural experience. I’ve never been frightened or even a little nervous since then.

You never know what’s going to happen, but it’s always unique and 70

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

always fun.” Housley says that part of that fun is hitting the road, bound for adventure, not knowing exactly what will happen along the way. “When you’re surfing, you could stay in any kind of dwelling.

There are yurts, sailboats, tents and suites available. You could be sleeping on a couch or you could have your own room, or you could even have a whole guesthouse to yourself, pool included. Just depends.

There are all kinds of people [involved], from all social realms and incomes.”

It’s even quite possible for the CouchSurfing experience to be a real life-changer. Take Chad Duncan, for example. The 26-year-old Pedicab driver says he found himself sick of the cold Minnesota winters, and decided on a whim to head South toward the Florida Keys.

(Notice a pattern here?) He hit Savannah and made camp. The next morning he created his CouchSurfing profile and was guesting in someone’s home that very night. He alternated between that first host and a few others for a couple of weeks, then he met Tess Marine Housley and they wound up becoming a couple. “Being in love with her and the city itself, I decided to stay and make Savannah my permanent home,” says Duncan. “I moved in with Tess and we have been hosting surfers together since — at least a few times a week — and traveling extensively.”

When asked what spurs his zeal for the CouchSurfing lifestyle, Duncan responds immediately, “A love for adventure in my everyday life.” Proof of that love? “St. Patrick’s Day 2009 we had at least 15 people at my house,” says Housley. (Duncan says it may have been as many as 17.) “We had beds and bodies across the living room floor,” she adds. “The guest bedroom was full, and we even had two tents set up in the backyard.”

While there’s no guarantee that a person who has been hosted by a CSer may be able — or would even care — to return that favor to the exact person they’ve stayed with (in part because some participants’

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

71

meet

m

CouchSurfing Ori This traveler has been surfing his way around the world for almost five years

Name: Erin Brinton

Number of times

Hosted surfers

Age: 28

surfed: 7

Hometown:

Number of times

Lived in Savannah:

Locations visited:

from: U.S.A., Australia, G e r m a n y, C a n a d a , France, the Netherlands, South Africa

Tupelo, Mississippi 1 year

Vocation:

Traffic Engineer

as host: At least 20

Texas, Alabama, South Carolina, Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico, Bolivia

living arrangements do not afford them the ability to accept guests), it is not uncommon for bonds to be made during brief visits that turn into friendships, which in turn develop into invitations from the surfer to his former hosts.

Not surprisingly, Savannah seems to be relatively high on that list. “We’re a popular tourist destination,” says Simpson, who also notes Savannah’s location along a widely used East Coast corridor.

“Many people contact me to stay here on their way from New York to Miami or vice versa.”

James Holmes, a longtime CSer who’s a vocal proponent of the site (Simpson credits Holmes with getting her interested in joining) and has hosted surfers from 10 different countries, says he’s been pleasantly surprised with how many people around the world name Savannah as one of their “most wanted cities to visit — and not just on St. Patty’s Day.” That notion of acceptance is the real 72

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

key to understanding the growing appeal of CouchSurfing. The organization’s Mission Statement reads in part, “We envision a world where everyone can explore and create meaningful connections with the people and places they encounter. [This] enables us to respond to diversity with curiosity, appreciation and respect. The appreciation of diversity spreads tolerance.”

Holmes advises, “If you’re interested in trying this out, you have to be openminded. Because you’re going to meet a wide range of peeps. Black, white, rich, poor, young, old, guy, girl, Baptist, Jewish, hippies, professionals, partiers, and the list goes on.”

Or as Duncan says succinctly: “Just do it, with an open mind and an open heart.”

For more information or to start

Ori Bengal’s couch surfing extravaganzas began on New Years Day of 2007 and haven’t slowed down since; however, it all started with a simple lease. Bengal was working as a photographer and designer in Ft. Lauderdale, and his landlady was about to up the rent. He had the choice to stay and renew his lease or go elsewhere. He decided to go. He didn’t have anywhere specific in mind though, so it was basically a let’s throw a dart at a board scenario.

His buddy, Dan, suggested that he move to Los Angeles and stay on a friend’s couch until he could build a network.

“As soon as he said the word couch, a light bulb went off,” Bengal says. “Instead of going to one place, why not go to them all?”

Now entering into his fifth year of couch surfing, he did something he’s longed for since the beginning: couch surf in another country.

Destination: Costa Rica. Bengal spent over a month taking in the Costa Rican lifestyle and slept in seven different beds. He did everything from stay in a tree house 90 feet off of the ground in the middle of the rain forest to partake in the local cuisine. He funds his travels by offering his services wherever he goes, whether it be photography, business/marketing consulting or website building.

“As people we are nothing more than a collection of our experiences,” Bengal says. “I’ve been able to build social currency by couch surfing.”

He is currently working on his first book Creating Serendipity, which will be out sometime this year. The book will encompass his many adventures, life lessons, and relationships formed during his travels. For more information on Ori’s adventures, visit his website at couchsurfingori.com.

Editor’s note: Ori Bengal really has done it all, including staying on the couch of South photographer Josh Branstetter.

your couchsurfing adventure, head

to couchsurfing.org.

writ ten by s ara lynn mccall

{

stars of the south

}

Close to seven million tourists visit Savannah every year. Easily identified by a camera and map in hand, they come to the city in swarms, filling up the restaurants and lining the tour buses. And while locals often chuckle at them as they navigate the squares and cobblestone, there’s no doubt tourists are a major fuel source for the local community, contributing about $2 billion a year.

And as an industry that rivals the U.S. military and the port in economic impact on the city, the tourism industry needs a strong backbone to help keep everything and everyone straight. There are over 20,000 locals employed in the industry, and here are just a few standouts. w r i t t e n by L a u r e n H u n s b e r g e r | p h o t o g r a p h y by t i m j o h n s o n a n d s h aw n h e i f e r t

hostesscity

heros T o u r i s m r u n s t h e c i t y, t h e s e l o c a l s r u n t h e i n d u s t r y

74

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

joe marinelli ,

President of Visit Savannah

“I think we’re a first tier city in many ways.”

s ★ joe marinelli’s fascination with tourism and travel started at an impressively young age. “Even as a kid I was really interested in how cities marketed themselves,” he says. “I used to write letters asking for maps and brochures.” As he and his interest matured, Marinelli found himself working in the tourism industry for major cities like Detroit, Pittsburg, Charlotte, Washington D.C. and the mecca of tourism—New York City (where he worked for Donald Trump at the Plaza Hotel). Now fully immersed in the industry of destination marketing, he joined Visit Savannah four years ago and says he loves working for a city that attracts people for all the right reasons. “This

city has established itself as what I like to call ‘a destination of choice.’ People choose to come here. It’s almost like one of those bucket list things to do.”

While making sure every visitor has the best experience possible is the top priority for Marinelli and the staff, keeping the city on the forefront of potential travelers’ minds is also a huge part of the equation. This means maintaining a presence in national media and, of course, tweeting. “Yeah, I have a Facebook page. I have a Twitter account,” he says. “We’re seeing our traditional marketing tools drastically change right before our eyes.” For more information, visit savannahvisit.com.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

75

} charlie brazil ,

General Manager of Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah

“We are ambassadors for the city.”

★ charlie brazil has worked with Old Town Trolley Tours in many different, unique cities like Boston, Key West and San Diego, but he says Savannah is absolutely the cream of the crop. “It has such a unique aesthetic beauty. Pound for pound, I’ve never seen a destination with beauty like Savannah,” Brazil says. He credits the overall romantic atmosphere for the success of the tourist industry here and credits his business savvy for the company’s success. “We have an incredible philosophy. We have a 100 percent money back guarantee. Our company feels that good about our products.”

76

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

But above all, Brazil says being a part of the tourism industry is all about building a strong community. Since arriving in Savannah, he’s been highly active with Visit Savannah, the Savannah Development and Renewal Authority and many other tourism-related groups. “I get to be a part of the community and I really enjoy it. I see smiles on people’s faces and that’s why I love it,” he says. For more information or to book a tour, visit trolleytours. com/savannah.

marti barrow,

Executive Director of Savannah Area Tourism Leadership Council

“I work with a very passionate group of people.”

★ when tourists visit the city, there are plenty of people waiting to make sure they enjoy their time here, but who’s looking out for those who work within the tourist industry? Marti Barrow, executive director of the Savannah Area Tourism Leadership Council, backs the 225 plus businesses that are members of the nonprofit trade organization. The members range from restaurant owners to hoteliers to small business owners, and the TLC assists them by talking to elected leaders, organizing special training programs, and helping with public relations among other services. “We work to protect

the interests of the tourism industry,” she says. “We figure out how to give them resources so that their businesses succeed.”

After living and working in Savannah for about five years, Barrow says she has come to see just how hugely important the industry is for the city. “There are 20,000 people employed in the tourism industry in our area, and when you look at the overall population, that’s a huge percentage,” she says. “It gets in your blood. It’s an energy. It’s a lifestyle.” For more information, visit tourismleadershipcouncil.com.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

77

will green ,

Owner of Old Savannah Tours

“We are the oldest tour group in the city.”

★ thirty years ago, Will Green took over his family’s business, Old Savannah Tours, equipped with two 12-passenger vans and a hardy work ethic. “I used to wash buses every morning of my life at the crack of dawn,” he says. “Then I’d give five tours a day, go home and either wash vehicles or do paperwork at the kitchen counter. It was a home-based business then. It’s a seven-day-a-week job.” But the hard work paid off, and now he has an entire fleet of different vehicles and quite a few more employees and helpful tour guides. One thing that hasn’t changed: the hours. “We’re closed only for

78

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Christmas and St. Patty’s Day,” he says.

With tourism literally in his blood, he says the best part of his job is finding new, creative ways to explore the beauty, history and culture of his hometown. The company just recently launched an Entertainment Tour, which highlights the Savannah Theatre, the nation’s oldest continuously operating theater, and he has plans for a new shuttle tour to take visitors to the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum. For more information or to book a tour of the city, visit oldsavannahtours.com.

kenny hill ,

Executive Director of Savannah Riverfront

➸ ★ the entirety of the historic Landmark District is responsible for the city’s reputation as a remarkable and beautiful place to visit, but River Street always seems to make a unique impression on travelers. And the many feet that patter along the cobblestone street largely have to do with Kenny Hill and Savannah Riverfront, a nonprofit organization that coordinates dozens of family-friendly events and programs for tourists and locals alike.

“We’re a good vehicle to help the community at large,” he says. “What’s good for River Street is good for the entire community and vice versa.” Between car shows, air shows, holiday festivals and other entertainment events, Hill makes sure there is something for every kind of family. He’s especially ex-

➸

“My heart has always been in nonprofit.”

cited about a tall ship show that will be coming to the city next year as part of an educational program for children and in celebration of Savannah’s maritime history.

While he’s been active in the downtown scene for many years now, he still gets a thrill out of taking in the view. “When you look at River Street you’re seeing history, but it’s also real time. You’re looking at buildings that were there 200 years ago and at the same time you see a cargo ship go by. And you see ‘Dottie’ [the streetcar] go up and down the street. So there’s really an eclectic mix of everything,” he says. For more information, visit riverstreetsavannah.com.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

79

go T h e

t o w n s

a n d

t r e n d s

o f

t h e

S o u t h

stayshop t r a v e l

•

g o i n g n at i v e written by sara lynn mccall

|

f a s h i o n

|

82

84

the beauty of mothers

quick trips and getaways

The Parks at Chehaw will hold its annual Native American Cultural Festival in Albany, Georgia on April 15-17. This popular festival examines Native American cultures from all over the country. The festival will include demonstrations on flint knapping, clay pottery making, flute music and much more. Don’t forget your spending money as vendors will be selling everything from silver and turquoise jewelry to handpainted drums. Also the Wild Animal Park will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. more info

parksatchehaw.org 229.430.275 105 Chehaw Park Road Albany, Georgia

Go to southmagazine.com for a guide to Southern getaways, plus local lodging and shopping.

80

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

s h o p p i n g

Dressing the Part: Kids and adults alike dress up in traditional Indian garb.

|

86

a weekend in atl

l o d g i n g

88 best in show

96 a guide to camping

{ HOME GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

81

g o s tay s h o p

g

“As a mother of two boys, ages 3 and 2, motherhood is total chaos and completely beautiful.”

–Staci Cannon

➼ Staci and stephen cannon

The Beauty of Motherhood

i n ho n o r o f mo t he r ’ s day ( M ay 8) a f e w l o c a l mom s s h a r e t hei r mo s t i n t im at e mome n t s

ther To v iew o D ay ’s r e h M ot o to s a n d b lo g s , p ha s , v is it g if t id e g a z in e . s o u t h m am co

I

written by susanna bartee | photography by christine hall

t’s a little embarrassing to admit, but I didn’t really get the hang of this mother business until the day I gave birth to my fifth (yes, fifth) child.

Somewhere in the back of my mind, crammed in a dark place like a parcel I didn’t want but couldn’t get rid of, was the thought that something bigger and better was going to happen to me one day. I could not say this out loud even to myself because I knew a good mother would never, ever feel this sense of “The best is yet to come.”

Good mothers count their blessings while they stir the macaroni and cheese. Good mothers say things like, “I looked into my infant’s eyes and just knew this is what I’d been born to do.”

My confession may surprise many people—even those closest to me—because I’ve always done a darn good job of feeding, clothing and encouraging my kids. From the first positive pregnancy test, I have 82

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 2011 11

loved them desperately and sacrificed a lot for them. I just didn’t do all of that with ease or the confidence that motherhood was my calling.

Deep down I thought I was biding time until my other, real-er calling came along. Then January 20, 2005, happened to me.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” I thought as I awoke abruptly a little after 5 a.m. I knew immediately that labor had started, but I was unwilling to accept it being six days early. “Maybe if I lie very still and go back to sleep it will stop,” I told myself. But I wasn’t very convincing.

The big problem wasn’t having the baby early. The big problem was that my husband, an Army major, was still sitting in Iraq... to read the rest of susanna’s essay, go to southmagazine.com

{ SHOPPING GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

83

g

along the Blue Ridge Escarpment and various rugged trails to the top of Table Rock Mountain (A D MISSION FR EE FOR AGES 15

g o s tay s h o p

A N D UN DER ; $2 FOR AGES 16+).

Embrace your wild side and go check out the swimming area in Pinnacle Lake.

INSIDER IN FO:

Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival F ernandina B each , F lorida travel time : 2 . 5 hours

Quick Trips w he n t he i n door s a n d a i r con di t ion i ng b ecome too much to h a n dl e , check ou t t he s e mi n i- getaways t h at w i l l ta k e you ou t door s a n d get you r b lood b oi l i ng! written by amy desselle

Drive Petty

(STA RT I NG AT $ 9 9) ,

DAY T ON A B E AC H , F L OR I DA T R AV E L T I M E : 4 HOU R S

Ever wondered what it feels like to speed around a racetrack at 165 mph in a NASCAR racecar?

The Richard Petty Driving Experience at Daytona Motor Speedway gives you just that. Whether you want to be gripping the steering wheel and feeling the gas pedal under your feet ( S TA R TI N G A T $ 4 4 9 ) or digging your nails into the passenger seat while a trained instructor takes you around the track a few times

this is the authentic NASCAR experience.

Six hundred horsepower and an adrenaline-pumping thrill make this the ride of your life ( DR I V E P E T T Y. C O M , 1 . 8 0 0 . 2 3 7. 3 8 8 9) .

INSIDER IN FO: To take a car out on the track, you must be able to drive a manual transmission. But just imagine how you’ll feel zooming around the track for 8 laps as your rookie experience.

Table Rock State Park PIC K E N S , S OU T H C A R OL I N A T R AV E L T I M E : 4 . 5 HOU R S

[ fly ]

Table Rock Mountain is the perfect backdrop for a scenic retreat at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you feel like you need an escape from the hustle and bustle, this is the place. Featuring two lakes, a campground, mountain cabins and lodges, this tranquil park has something for everyone ( 1 . 8 6 6 . 3 4 5 . 7 2 7 5 F O R R E S E R V A T I O N S ) . The more adventurous are challenged to scale the 350-foot vertical granite cliffs at the top of the mountain. And for the slightly tamer, there is the 80-mile long Foothills Trail through the forests

The 48th Annual Shrimp Festival kicks off April 28th with the Pirate Parade which is considered a highlight of each year’s festival. (shrimpfestival . com ) The theme this year is “Shrimping on Island Time” and the festival boasts dozens of food booths, live entertainment and a “Kids Fun Zone.”

Celebrate island living with a stroll through the art section, a fireworks display and buckets full of shrimp. I N S I D E R ’ S T I P : While shrimp may be king at this festival, the food booths offer a variety of fresh seafood and other locally caught delicacies, so don’t be shy. Try them all.

savannah to destin for under $100

s ava n na h i n t e r nat iona l a i r p ort

Atlanta-based charter airline Vision Airlines has announced a new nonstop, low-fare flight from Savannah to Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida, beginning this spring. But the best part is the price; rates begin at $89 one way (VISIONAIRLINES.COM, 1.877.FLY.A.JET). Vision Airlines will operate out of the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport every Sunday, Thursday and Saturday, using a 30-seat Dornier 328 turbo-prop aircraft. Grab your opportunity to take a breather and explore the sandy beaches of Destin. insider info: You can purchase tickets online or by phone.

84

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

{ SHOPPING GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

85

g o s tay s h o p

g

• ➼ Loews Hotel

SAV ATL -to-

➼ Highland Bakery: Fried Chicken Benedict

➼ written by andrea aguiler a

When craving fast-paced city life in a place with world-class restaurants, shopping and events, use this complete weekender’s guide to the coolest places to eat, stay, shop and play in Atlanta Stay Stylish Stay Two blocks down from Piedmont Park stands the new loews hotel , just built last April. The grand elegance of the hotel is created by compelling, contemporary art on the walls, high ceilings and sweeping windows overlooking the city. However, for all its modern sleekness, the hotel is also family and pet friendly, comfortable and affordable.

86

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

Enjoy a local microbrew or artisanal wine at the popular Bar Eleven or take advantage of 24-hr room service. 404.745.5000, 1065

➼ Highland Bakery: Sweet Potato Pancakes

peachtree st. northeast, loewshotels. com/en/atlanta

Eat The Icing on Top Stacey Eames has put Highland Bakery on the map with her devotion to excellent cof-

ph o t o graphy | H ighland bakery: sara hanna , p ’ cheen : m . jeffres , the real ch o w baby: v is u al statements ph o t o graphy

A Weekend Guide for ATL Where to Stay loews hotel

➼ P’Cheen: Sweet & Spicy Thai Green Chicken Wings

fee, milling her own chemical-free grains—and for her incredibly cool cakes. Customers from as far away as New York go nuts for chefs Karen Portaleo and Joshua John Russel’s extraordinary and award-winning cakes. Want your beach-themed wedding cake in the shape of a giant octopus? You got it! They also have amazing brunch and lunch options like Sweet Potato Pancakes and Crab Cakes Benedict. 404.586.0772,

Curry Mussels, Spiced Pumpkin Salad and Drunken Shrooms.The Monday night Guinness-Beer-Battered Fish-n-Chips are considered the best in Atlanta. And if you are feeling adventurous, order the Just Trust Us, where the chefs prepare a one-and-only starter, just for you.

We trusted them and were very glad we did. 404.529.8800, 701 high-

655 highland ave #10, highlandbakery.com

The Salt Block Experience Park Tavern owners Paul and Angela Smith are celebrating the 10th anniversary of this Midtown staple by introducing a newly renovated sushi bar featuring the Himalayan Salt Block, an 8-by-8-by-2 piece of pressurized salt culled from the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains and heated for cooking. Sushi Chef Chapin Vilasineekul gives you your own block and an array of fresh fish, such as wild-caught Hawaiian tuna, salmon and walu, as well as all the fixings you need to create the perfect hand roll. This is a truly unique dining experience!

Go Stir Crazy The Atlanta mayor himself attended the grand opening of Chip and Carol Joyner’s innovative and fun stir-fry restaurant, the real chow baby. The atmosphere is laid-back and patrons act as the chef, choosing from 70+ market fresh ingredients prepared daily from scratch to concoct the perfect bowl. I’m thinking lo mein, tofu, bok choy, ginger, sweet corn and black bean garlic sauce. Need some inspiration? Several of Atlanta’s hottest chefs, including YEAH! Burger’s Shaun Doty and Alex Friedman of P’cheen, have created signature bowls. There are two locations: 404.815.4900, 2 suite a, 1016 howell mill rd; 770.405.2464, 2 galleria parkway southeast, therealchowbaby.com

Old Fourth Ward p’cheen international bistro and pub is the perfect spot for those

with worldly tastes. The alwayschanging menu by Chefs Alex Friedman and Keiran Neely delights with dishes like Coconut

➼ The Salt Block Experience

➼The Real Chow Baby

Play Atlanta Food and Wine Festival Bringing together the best of Southern food and drink for the first time, the inaugural atlanta food and wine festival on May 19-22 promises to be an event to remember. BBQ pit masters, award-winning chefs and mixologists, master sommeliers, fry cooks and local growers will all be pres-

Where to Eat Highland Bakery

404.586.0772 655 Highland Ave #10 higlandbakery.com the real chow baby

404.815.4900 2 Suite A, 1016 Howell Mill Rd 770.405.2464 2 Galleria Parkway Southeast therealchowbaby.com p’cheen international bistro & Pub

land ave ne suite 5, pcheen.com

404.249-0001, 500 10th st. northeast, parktavern.com

404.745.5000 1065 Peachtree St Northeast, loewshotels.com/en/Atlanta

404.529.8800 701 Highland Ave NE Suite 5 pcheen.com park tavern

404.249.0001 500 10th St Northeast parktavern.com

Where to Play ATLANTA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

404.474.7330 atlfoodandwinefestival.com

➼ ATL Food and Wine Festival Headliner: Todd English

ent to celebrate the deeply-rooted food and drink traditions of the South. There will be more than 200 events, ranging from tasting seminars and demonstrations to theme dinners, all connected to the festival’s three themes: old traditions, new traditions, and imports and inspirations. And, if you overindulge with cocktails and need a morning pick-me-up, there’s always the coffee tasting … or if hair of the dog is more your style, the morning cocktails event. 404.474.7330, atlfoodan-

➼ATL Food and Wine Festival

dwinefestival.com

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

87

Brianna There is something

about being out at the barn and communicating with such a large animal that seems to clear your head and leave you totally relaxed.

TOP: [$44], FAB’RIK, FAB’RIK NECKLACE: [$225], MELISSA HALL, J. Paige

s o u th m a g a z i n e p r e s e n t s

Just across the Talmadge Bridge sits the breathtaking Ronald C. Waranch Equestrian Center. The 100-acre center belongs to the Savannah College of Art and Design and encompasses a picturesque barn, lush grazing fields, horse paddocks surrounded by white wooden fences, and a competition area. Along with an elite team, SCAD offers a B.A. in equestrian studies for those who want to turn their passion for riding into a lifelong career. A few of the student athletes took time out of their busy schedules to show off the high fashion side of the sport. • For more information, visit scad.edu

nicovision studios bonnie youngman mitchell hall p e r r i r o t h e n b e r g , h e n r i e t t a a r m s t r o n g, ca r o l i n e i n g a l l s , brianna finkle, sebastian pinzon genevieve routon catie louden meredith p a r k e r , t ay l o r b l o c k , a a r o n bernstein, sara lynn mccall

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

89

Perri

I started riding when I was 9 years old, and when I was 10 I

got my first pony. I still have him to this day.

DENIM: [$166], CITIZENS OF HUMANITY, PALM AVENUE | CARDIGAN; [$195], AUDREY TALBOTT, JAMES HOGAN | BLOUSE: [$182], EQUIPMENT, JAMES GUNN sandfly | DIsc NECKLACE: [$36], CATHERINE HODGKINS, shopSCAD | CHAIN NECKLACE: [$68], bordine by design, TRUNK 13 BAG: [$78], HOBO INTERNATIONAL, TERRA COTTA | BOOTS: [$129], tory burch, cherry picked

90

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

Riding is very

Sebastian

much about being tuned in with the horse, being able to feel the slightest nuances in the way it’s moving or behaving. It’s not only about your personal performance, but it’s about your performance with your horse as a mutually dependent team.

BLAZER: [$95], JUDSON WADE, J. PARKER a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

91

Henrietta I grew up on a cattle ranch

in South Florida and my dad had

me in the saddle before I could walk. My whole family, on both my mother and father’s side, is involved with horses—either polo, show jumping or race horses.

DRESS: [$78], ESLEY, FAB’RIK | SWEATER: [$238], JOIE, JAMES GUNN FUR VEST: [$138], LINE & DOT, JAMES GUNN sandfly | applique VEST: [$62], MYSTREE, TERRA COTTA

92

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

93

Caroline Riding takes away

any

stress or worries that I may have, and it’s one of the only things that’s able to lift my spirits when I’m feeling down.

photos from left to right: On Perri: BLOUSE: [$118], LILLY PULITZER, PALM AVENUE | SHORTS: [$39], J BRAND, CHERRY PICKED VEST: [$110], SHAE, CUSTARD | NECKLACE: [$34], PALM AVENUE | BELT: [$38], ELISE M, J. PAIGE messenger wristlet with chain: [$95], SATCHEL

on caroline: LEATHER VEST: [$275], EMU AUSTRALIA, MINT | BLACK FRINGE VEST: [$99], FUMBLIN FOE, CUSTARD | NECKLACE: [$148], cuyler hovey-king, shopscad

on perri: BLOUSE: [$52], FAB’RIK, FAB’RIK JACKET: [$395], ZELDA, GAUCHO | NECKLACE: [$1,000], CHELSEA NICOLAS, shopSCAD BELT: [$48], ELISE M, J. PAIGE

on Henrietta: TOP: [$58], LULUVIA, RED CLOVER JACKET: [$385], EMU AUSTRALIA, MINT PANT: [$119], EMU AUSTRALIA, MINT Ribbon: [$60], katie runnels, shopscad on Brianna: PANT: [$78], BB DAKOTA, JAMES GUNN JACKET: [$264], EMIL RUTENBERG, MINT top: [$66], ART & CO, FAB’RIK Ribbon: [$60], katie runnels, shopscad on Perri: SKIRT: [$94], only hearts, terra cotta | JACKET: [$395], JAKETT NYC, GAUCHO TOP: [$66], FAB’RIK, FAB’RIK | bag: [$165], ellen large ruffle strap bag, laura schneider print, SATCHEL | Ribbon: [$60], katie runnels, shopscad

a special thanks to the Ronald C. Waranch Equestrian Center, marissa rowan and the scad equestrian team

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

95

g o s tay s h o p

g

some consider camping in the lowcountry to be some of the best in the world. Between the barrier islands and semi-tropical forest spots, it’s no wonder thrillseekers flock to the coast.

Camping with company: Camping is the perfect outing for friends and family to spend time together.

“there are a ton of Secret spots around these islands, but you have to get out and explore to find out w h e r e t h e y a r e .”

-Terrell scarboro, local camper and surfer

96

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Four Ways, Six locations and the best advice to get the most out of coastal

CAMPING written by kelly skinner | photogr aphy by tim johnson and mark rodocker

As many great travelers can attest, some of the greatest vacations you’ll ever have are found close to home. So grab a tent and a backpack and run away for a few days. You don’t have to go far or spend much for an adventurous escape into nature Tent Camping Cum be r lan d I s lan d Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island is a magical respite complete with marshes, forests and even wild horses. Campers can hike on 50 miles worth of trails, scavenge for shark’s teeth, drink wine, swim, build a fire or stargaze. For a more rugged option (i.e., no toilets and no filtered water), hike 5 to 10 miles into the island woodlands. Sea Camp Campground (which has fire rings, picnic tables and showers) is a little less rustic and is a good spot to see dolphins and manatees.

Pr ic e: Ferry rides from St. Marys, Georgia, to the island are $20 per person, with a $4 entrance fee and options for backcountry camping ($2 per day) or sea camp ($4 per day). Limited to seven nights.

What to br i ng : For backcountry camping, bring the works: pack, sleeping bag and sleeping pad, rain gear, hiking shoes, bear bag, hiking clothes, water filter/water purification tablets, a book or journal, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, bug spray, toiletries, a stove, whiskey, toilet paper, a camera and sunscreen.

Fe r ry sc h e du le: From March 1 to Nov. 30, the ferry departs St. Marys at 9 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. and Cumberland Island at 10:15 a.m. and 4:45 p.m.

Dog s? No.

I n s i d e r ’ s t i p : This destination books up quick for the ideal springtime weather. Rangers advise to reserve six months ahead. Plan in advance and be on the lookout for cancellations. Avoid summer camping altogether; mosquitoes will eat you alive.

Plan a tr i p: Cumberland Island National Seashore, 101 Wheeler St., St Marys, Georgia, 912.882.4336, nps.gov/cuis

Take your pick from varying degrees of “roughing it” as you kayak and camp at diverse areas near St. Simons. Choose from two- to five-day trips along the Altamaha River, the Satilla River and Sapelo and Blackbeard islands. There are even options for a women’s only kayaking and yoga retreat!

Spend the days paddling, observing wildlife and setting up camp.

Pr ic e: Multiday trips include guides, kayaks and equipment, meals, permits, transportation and camping gear. Prices start at $275.

What to bri ng: Sun hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, shoes that can get wet (like Tevas or tennis shoes), bug spray, camera, binoculars, sunglasses and snacks.

Dog s? No Plan a tr i p: SouthEast Adventure Outfitters, Pier Village, 313 Mallory St., St. Simons Island, Georgia, 912.638.6732, southeastadventure.com S t. s i m o n s

RV Camping J e kyll I s lan d Roll into the campground on Jekyll Island and enjoy the comforts of home while you’re communing with nature. The campground offers 18 wooded acres on the isle’s north end (near Driftwood Beach and historic ruins), with 206 campsites both for tenting and for full hook-up RV sites — complete with electricity, cable TV, a camp store, water, sewage and free Wi-Fi for registered

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

97

➼Good ol’ Boys: A group of local camping experts hangs out at River’s End Campground on Tybee Island.

guests. While you’re parked in the picturesque woods, your options range from horseback riding and shopping to simply walking along the beach or watching the birds.

Price: Full hook-up back in: $32; full hook-up pull through: $35; water and electric: $26; primitive tenting: $21.

What to bring: Your usual RV vacay goodies along with fishing poles, bikes, swimsuits, good camp shoes, sunscreen, towels, bug spray, clothes you can get dirty and clothes for going out to eat.

Dog s? Yes P l a n a t r i p : Jekyll Island Campground, 1197 Riverview Dr., Jekyll Island, Georgia, 866.658.3021, jekyllisland.com

Cabin Camping River’s End Literally drive just down the street to camp at River’s End Campground on Tybee. Cabin amenities include access to a small grocery store, a swimming pool, Wi-Fi, coin laundry, ice, a dump station, a book exchange, a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator, an outside screened porch with a grill and cable TV. Conveniently located 1.5 blocks from the beach, it’s like having your own waterfront home!

Pr i c e : Cabin rentals start at $85 a night, with full RV hook-ups starting at $50 a night and primitive camping

98

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

at $25 a night.

D o g s ? Yes for RV campers; but no more than two dogs and dogs must be on leashes. Dogs aren’t allowed for cabin campers or for tenters. Pets are not allowed on beaches.

I n s i d e r ’ s t i p : C a bi n s a r e not stocked with supplies such as pillows, bla nkets, sheets, cook ing equipment, cleaning supplies and lawn furniture. So bring your own!

W h at t o b r i n g : Toiletries, swimming gear, tennis shoes, flip-flops, insect repellant, sunscreen, a camera, blankets, sheets and pillow, pots and pans, soap, groceries, coffee pot, sponges, silver ware, plates and glasses.

P l a n a t r i p : River’s End Campground & RV Park, 5 Fort Ave. at Polk St., T ybee Island, Georgia, 912.786.5518, cityoftybee.org S k i daway I s l a n d S tat e Pa r k

Revel in the beauty of the Spanish moss-draped live oaks while you watch for deer, fiddler crabs and migrating birds. Skidaway Island State Park’s 588 acres border the Skidaway narrows and are home to 87 tent, trailer and RV campsites, five picnic shelters, three pioneer campgrounds and three playgrounds. Get some fresh air while hiking trails or enjoy watching for wildlife from the observation tower. The barrier island is also home to an interpretive center,

which includes a giant ground sloth replica, birding station and reptile room.

Price: Tent, trailer and RV campsites are $25-$28; picnic shelters are $55; pioneer campgrounds are $40 for groups of 10 + only.

Dogs? Yes, as long as they are on a leash and you clean up after them.

What to bri ng: The scenic hiking trails are one of Skidaway’s best features so make sure you have your most comfortable walking shoes, a hefty supply of bug spray, ample sunscreen and a camera.

P l a n a t r i p : Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, Georgia, 800.864.7275 or 912.598.2300, gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

Mansion Camping …

For those outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the idea of camping but can’t find a way to function without modern conveniences, Sapelo Island Reserve’s Reynolds Mansion should do the trick. The quiet destination, like Cumberland Island, is

Sapelo Island Reserve

only accessible by boat. Once on the island, settle into the peaceful seclusion of the island with a hike to the lighthouse, c. 1820. Historic Reynolds is open to large groups of 16-29 only. Stays at the mansion include meals as well as luxury accommodations. Camping opportunities, and access to hot showers and restrooms, are also available on nearby Cabretta Island to groups of 1525.

Pr i c e : $150-$180 per night, per guest in the mansion. There is a two night minimum.

Dog s? No What to bri ng: If you’re staying in the mansion, beach clothing, tennis shoes, sunscreen, camera, nice clothes for eating out, books and an iPod. If you’re camping, bring a tent and your regular camping gear (first aid kit, hiking shoes, camp shoes, camp clothes, rain gear, toiletries, cook wear, etc.). You can leave your water treatment kit at home.

P l a n a t r i p : Re ynolds Mansion , 912.485.2299, gastateparks.org/sapeloreynolds

Listen to the Locals Learn from those who know how to navigate the islands “Wear tennis shoes in the boat and know the tides. And remember, you can’t take a boat up a creek with no water.” - spanky schley “Plan things so you can come in comfortably and leave comfortably the next day.” - michael sullivan “Don’t burn through your firewood too quickly.” - chris hoflund “In the winter, camp inland cause it’s warmer, and you don’t have the wind and there’s plenty of firewood. In the summer, camp on the beach because you get the breeze and relief from the bugs.” - eric jenkins “Wear the appropriate clothes. Wear layers to keep your feet dry.” - ashleigh womack “You have to have a boat, and you have to talk to someone who knows where to go.” - terrell scarboro

a pr il | m ay 11 southmaga zine.com

99

SOUTH ’S G R EAT

staycation

CH A L L E NG E Between island camping, w i l d wat e r s p o r t s , lu x u r i o u s h o t e l s a n d wo r l d - c l a s s e n t e r ta i n m e n t, S ava n na h i a n s h av e p l e n t y o f r e a s o n s t o l ov e where they live STAY:

the mansion river’s end

campground & rv park the bohemian villa de suenos avia savannah oaks rv resort

EAT:

circa 1875 belford’s savannah

bar•food moon river brewing company brasserie 529 cafe gelatohhh! boar’s head swank bistro

PLAY:

savannah movie tours port wentworth

savannah slow ride old savannah tours spa bleu dolphin magic tours captain derek’s dolphin adventure tour adventures in savannah lucas theatre specialty sports poseiden spa signature car service,llc

SHOP:

gaucho trunk 13 dc2 design interiors

sara jane children’s boutique savannah & charleston shoe co. the emporium at habersham fab’rik one fish two fish city market

ISLAND LIFE:

north island

surf and kayak captain mike dolphin tours sea kayak georgia

*

model: bree thomas, dress: eva danielle necklace: mary millsaps jewelry compass: arc, hair/makeup: catie louden

The mansion was voted 1 of the top 500 hotels in the world by Travel & Leisure Magazine

STAYCATIONS ➸ sta y

THE FACTS

What:

Hotel, Restaurant, Cooking School, Spa, Art Gallery, Conferences, Weddings

Where:

700 Drayton street

When:

700 Drayton: Daily 7AM-10PM Casimir’s Lounge: Tues-Sat 5PM-2AM Bosendorfer Lounge: Daily 11AM-11PM

Cost: $15-$40 Price Range

“ nothing says “welcome to savannah” like the mansion on forsyth park. come “spa” with us, “cook” with us, “dine” with us, or “stay” with us; come “feel” historic savannah at its best.”

— christopher coyle, general manager

classic art & luxury The mansion

700 Drayton was originally built in 1888 as a private family home. It was renovated and the hotel was built in 2005.

➸ 700 Drayton Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.238.5158 | mansiononforsythpark.com

M

ansion on Forsyth Park is a creative blend of art and luxury. The original Victorian-Romanesque mansion has been restored to magnify its classic brilliance and now houses our restaurant and cooking school. The addition, inspired by the original home, offers guest rooms, a spa, elegant ball-

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

rooms and art gallery. Join us for the perfect getaway and immerse yourself in art, music, luxurious amenities and attentive service. The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown near the beautiful Forsyth Park, historic Mercer Williams Home, and fascinating Mrs. Wilkes’ Boardinghouse.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

101

STAYCATIONS ➸ sta y

61 tips for the perfect staycation WRIT TEN BY S AMANTHA CARROLL, S ARA LYNN MCCALL

ith warm weather and spring fever looming, it’s time to turn the city you work hard in to the city you play hard in. Luckily, Savannah is the perfect spot for the ultimate staycation, a getaway without actually having to get away. Right here in our city there’s envious downtown shopping, relaxing beaches, breathtaking scenery and delectable cuisine. The best part— you don’t have to spend months in advance booking hotels, saving money and making plans. Your vacation starts the moment you walk out your front door. Use this checklist to take the South’s Great Staycation Challenge.

•

1

create an itinerary Get all of your staycation details in one spot. Make sure to include the essentials of where to eat and where to shop, but challenge yourself to include things you have always known about but never done.

enjoy the outdoors

River’s end campground & rv park ➸ 5 Fort Avenue | Tybee Island, Georgia 800.786.1016 | riversendcampground.com

T

he River’s End Campground & RV Park provides a variety of accommodations for all kinds of campers, including rental cabins, full-service RV campsites, water and electric campsites (which accommodate tents and campers), and primitive tent sites. River’s End is the only campground east of I-95 in the Savannah area and offers free WiFi, cable television, coin-operated laundry and the island’s largest swimming pool.

Before the property was a campground, the location was owned by a family with horses.

102

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

“our goal at river’s end is to provide you with a safe, pleasant location where you can relax, meet new friends, and return frequently. come experience the best of southern hospitality while enjoying a dose of tybee time.” — woody hemphill

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

enjoy our Open-air outdoor lounge & tapas bar on the 9th floor overlooking the Savannah River What:

STAYCATIONS ➸ sta y

THE FACTS

hotel, restaurant, bar

Where:

On bay street overlooking the savannah river

When: Rock’s on the River: Sun -Th: 7am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 7am-11pm Rock’s on the Roof: Sun-Thurs: 11am – 12am, Fri &Sat: 11am – 1am

Cost: $10- $30 price range

“ the bohemian hotel sits like a jewel above the historic 18th century cobblestone street along the famous savannah river. this premier location, coupled with the service and luxurious quality standards synonymous with the kessler collection, make this unique hotel the perfect getaway.”

stay on the river the bohemian

Speciality packages: Romance Package, Strictly Business, & Bohemian Bed and Breakfast Getaway

➸ 102 W. Bay Street | Savannah, Georgia 877.486.9575 | bohemianhotelsavannah.com

T

he Bohemian Hotel is located at the center of Savannah’s unique attractions, squares, restaurants and shopping. Its classic brick exterior is reminiscent of the era when British maritime settlers first landed on Savannah’s banks in the 1730s. Step inside and

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

experience the contemporary chic design interpretation of the Riverfront’s historical roots.

The guest rooms feature original art, custom campaign-style furniture, the latest technology and dramatic views of the Savannah River and historic district.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

103

•

2

STAYCATIONS ➸ sta y

don’t over schedule

Friends, lunches and playdates consume your everyday life. Mimic a vacation by limiting your agenda. Staycations are about you!

•

3

•

4

set a budget

avoid errands

A staycation should save you money, but make a plan for how much you’d like to spend during your leisure time.

Come up with a list of things you’d like to splurge on and areas in which you can save. Then, stick to it. In the end, your budget should be an even balance of both spending and saving that leaves you satisfied but not feeling guilty for blowing all your money.

“Honey dos,” and home fix-ups. Your staycation is for enjoying yourself, not working on things you don’t have time to do. Also, one of the most important details is to turn off your cell phone, computer and any other form of communication relating to work or people who cause you stress. Pretend as if you have left the country and are unreachable. It may seem weird at first, but in the end you might even find it refreshing!

Stay in Style

Villa de Suenos

➸ 4309 16th Street | Saint Simons Island, Georgia

912.506.0882 | villadesuenosssi.com

V

illa de Suenos is a luxurious, oceanfront, 6-bedroom, 6-bath private home with some of the best views on the East Coast.

It is the perfect getaway for a large family and can comfortably accommodate 15 people.

The Villa also offers incredible outdoor entertaining spaces.

Villa de Suenos truly is a “House of Dreams”.

The Villa has beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

“If you want to experience a small piece of Paradise, then Villa de Suenos is where you will find it. It just doesn’t get any better than that.” - Judge Tasca Hagler Columbus, Georgia 104

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

4 diamonds were just awarded to AVIA Savannah as of March 2011!

STAYCATIONS ➸ S T A Y

THE FACTS

What:

Boutique Hotel, Restaurant + Lounge

Where: Historic Savannah When:

Dinner at The

Kitchen 5-11 pm, Mon-Thu 5 - midnight, Fri, Sat 5 - 10 pm, Sun

Cost: Guestrooms + Suites starting from $199-$309 Kitchen small plates + entrees from $5-25

“ avia is a truly welcoming place. we love to host and share the distinct local color flavors that make savannah an unforgettable destination.”— pedro perez, general manager

Hospitality & sophistication AVIA

and

Look no further for food and drink that’s fun, intensely local and completely delicious.

➸ 14 Barnard Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.233.2116 | aviahotels.com

W

ith its artful decor, warm hospitality and prime downtown Historic Savannah location, AVIA delights with New South sophistication. Sample sensational small plates in the AVIA Kitchen, sip a signature cocktail at the lounge or soak in the sun or stars on the terrace with fire pit and pool. With a wonderful mix of locals and guests, AVIA feels speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

like a lively cocktail party most every night of the week. The hotel offers locals a convenient and affordable opportunity to immerse themselves in the allure of the Hostess City of the South.

Residents of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina can get Staycation rates - 20% off best available non-prepaid rates, Sunday through Thursday, based on availability. a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

105

•

5

STAYCATIONS ➸ sta y

lock the door and leave your house!

Experience what all who visit Savannah get by staying in one of many hospitable overnight establishments.

•

6

•

stay in the lap of luxury The Mansion on Forsyth marries world-class hospitality with historic opulence in a restored Victorian mansion, nestled in the legendary Savannah Historic District. With a restaurant, lounge, spa and art gallery, you don’t even have to leave the building if you don’t want to. Enjoy true Southern luxury here. ➼ 700 Drayton Street, 912.238.5138, mansiononforsythpark.com

7

embrace the charm and history of the city Stay in a local B&B like Hamilton Turner Inn. Built in the 1800s for the Hamilton family, this inn was the first home in Savannah with electricity. It is now an elegant bed and breakfast found on Lafayette Square.

Keep in mind, B&Bs are very popular places in Savannah, so make your reservations early. ➼ 330 Abercorn Street, 912.233.1833, hamilton-turnerinn.com

➼ AVIA

Relax & enjoy nature Savannah oaks rv resort ➸ 805 Fort Argyle road | Savannah, Georgia

912.748.4000 | savannahoaks.net

P

roviding a relaxing environment for people who want to camp in the area, Savannah Oaks is located on the Ogeechee River, and is equipped with canoes and kayaks available for rent. RV sites are full hook-up with cable and free WIFI and amenities include a playground, pool, boat ramp and fishing dock. There’s also an on-site convenience store for many items you may need. There are 118 sites!

Savannah Oaks is 30 years old and was renovated in 2005!

“relax and enjoy.”

- Savannah Oaks RV Resort’s motto

106

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

THEFACTS What:

Where:

A french The heart of the american bistro Historic district

When:

Cost:

dining mon-thurs 6-10pm fri-sat 6-11pm pub- 5-till mon-fri 6-till sat

$15-25 STAYCATIONS ➸ S T A Y

an auth entic French bistro

“our vision was to create french-inspired bistro, and from the décor to the cuisine we have done just that. we provide a dining experience you can’t get anywhere else in savannah. our food is delicious and our service is phenomenal. ”— jeffrey downey

take a trip to paris circa 1875 ➸ 48 Whitaker Street | Savannah, Georgia

912.443.1875 | circa1875.com

A

neighborhood saloon for over 135 years, Circa 1875 is an upscale downtown gastropub that boasts 28 wines by the glass, an assortment of draught beer, a signature rose water martini and a thoughtful liquor selection.

Also make sure you check out the 13th- century-inspired wine cellar. Offering French and American

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

bistro cuisine served in the pub and dining room, the menu evolves with the seasons. We have designed a Parisian bistro where one can enjoy delicious, affordable French cuisine served with excellence and flair in an authentic bistro setting.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

107

•

8

go rugged STAYCATIONS ➸ eat

Pitch a tent or park an RV to embrace the great outdoors. Try River’s End Campground. Only 1.5 blocks from the beach, River’s End Campground offers over 100 sites with everything from full hook-up capacity to primitive tent camping sites. ➼ 5 Fort Avenue at Polk Street, 912.786.5518, cityoftybee.org/Campground.aspx

•

9

•

be your own tour guide

If you want to see Savannah without the hassle of guidebooks, the Savannah iPod MP3 Audio History Walking Tour is perfect for you. For only $10.95, explore Savannah with the convenience of your iPod. Over 200 years of history is narrated in 47 different stops. The best thing about this tour is that you control it, so you can take as many breaks as you want and then continue at your own pace. ➼ trekexchange.com/tours/102

10

look at your city from a new view

See the port city directly from the water by taking a boat through Savannah Riverboat Cruises. From a sightseeing tour to a fabulous lunch or dinner cruise, Savannah Riverboats give you a variety of themed cruises to choose from. This spring they are having special Easter and Mother’s Day cruises to help make the occasions a little more exciting. ➼ 9 East River Street, 800.786.6404, savannahriverboat.com

casual fine dining

belford’s savannah

➸ 315 West St. Julian Street | Savannah, Georgia

912.233.2626 | belfordssavannah.com

C

asual fine dining in a historic brick building offering lunch, dinner and a champagne brunch on Sunday. Belford’s has anchored the west end of City Market for over 14 years. Guests may dine alfresco or in our dining room, the former location of a Savannah family owned wholesale food supplier. The perfect place to host your private gatherings, Belford’s can accommodate up to 150 guests.

Belfords has been in business for 14 years!

“We are proud to buy local which allows us to serve

only the freshest local seafood and dishes. We consider ourselves lucky toremain a favorite for both locals and visitors of Savannah. ” - Kevin McPherson, owner

108

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

11

Don’t be afraid to pamper yourself and splurge a little! If you really want to relax and have a good time on your staycation, have someone chauffer you around from place to place, catering to your every move. The courteous and reliable drivers at Signature Car Service are available every day of the year, 24 hours a day. Their drivers are all screened for safety. ➼ 912.713.0050

12

•

use a map

It may seem a little touristy, but a map of Savannah can prove to be helpful when navigating your way around the city. And, it will really come in handy if you plan on fully taking advantage of your time in the city to explore never-before-seen-places. The 2011 official visitor’s guide includes the top dining spots and hotels, details of Savannah’s history, and a map of downtown and can be obtained for free at savannahvisit.com/getaways/ visitors-guide.

13

play in the park

Forsyth Park, the lush, green home of the famed fountain and now with a trendy café and play area, is the perfect place to enjoy the water and sun.

STAYCATIONS ➸ eat

act like a rockstar

•

➼ forsyth park

not your average bar

bar • food

➸ 4523 Habersham Street Savannah, georgia

912.355.5956 | barfoodsavannah.com

O

ur midtown location harbors the eclectic tastes and feel of a downtown eatery without the hassle of parking. Bar • food also offers great specials including $1.00 drinks every Tuesday and free oyster roasts every Wednesday. With an ever-changing and evolving food and drink menu, your neighborhood bar can never go out of style!

The sign behind the bar means “double happiness”!

“A Great, consistent, neighboorhood bar” - Paula Letcher

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

109

•

14

STAYCATIONS ➸ eat

don’t forget the squares

With 22 squares in the city, there’s no shortage of beauty or places to people watch. Whether you pack a lunch, walk your dog, paint a work of art, learn about the South’s rich history or just rest on a bench taking in the scenery, the options are limitless.

Just remember not to ride your bike through the squares!

•

15

•

visit the city’s monuments

Head to Fort Pulaski, one of Savannah’s many links to the Civil War past. ➼ Tybee Island, 912.786.5787, nps. gov/fopu Do you really love Southern history? Then Fort Pulaski, located on Tybee Island, is another national monument definitely worth visiting.

It too represents Savannah’s part in the Civil War. Tybee Island (912) 7865787 www.nps.gov/fopu

16

or learn about history in the museums

Visit the Mighty Eighth Museum and learn about the courage and patriotism of the 8th Air Force. ➼ 175 Bourne Ave, Pooler 912.748.8888

➼ mighty eighth air force museum

haunted pub

Moon River, the former City Hotel, also brewed beer on site for the enjoyment of Hotel guests. Today they are continuing a tradition that’s nearly 200 years old!

Casual yet refined

Our food is made with local ingredients of the highest quality!

moon river brewing company

Brasserie 529

➸ 21 West Bay Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.447.0943 moonriverbrewing.com

➸ 529 East Liberty Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.238.0045 | brasserie529.com

M

oon River Brewing Company, located in the old City Hotel, is Savannah’s only brew pub, brewing award-winning handcrafted beers for over 11 years and serving delicious food with prompt, cheerful attention. Moon River Brewing Company—a great beginning to a good time.

110

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

L

ocated in historic downtown Savannah, Georgia, Brasserie 529 offers the best in French-inspired brasserie cuisine. Our guests can enjoy classic brasserie food, cocktails and a handpicked wine list in a modern, casual setting indoors or on our patio.

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

17

You don’t have to be an esteemed photographer to capture some great Savannah shots. There are endless photo opportunities from the beautifully manicured squares to the stunning Talmadge Bridge. Print your photos in black and white and add a simple black frame to turn your afternoon hobby into artwork or just simply share them with friends and family.

18

•

indulge, relax and renew

Savannah has dozens of world-class spas. Choose one close to your hotel and let all your stresses slip away. For a complete listing of spas and salons, go to southmagazine.com/guides.

➼ spa bleu

19

get a makeover

Be bold and get a new haircut, new color treatment or other beauty procedure. When your staycation is over, you will not only feel refreshed but you’ll also look it. For a complete listing of spas and salons, go to southmagazine.com/guides.

STAYCATIONS ➸ eat

remember to take photos

•

➼ jw salon

Italy meets savannah

CafÉ Gelatohhh!

➸ 202 W.Saint Julian Street at Ellis Square

Savannah, Georgia | 912.234.2344 | gelatohhh.com

C

afe GelatOhhh! is an a rtisa na l g ourmet gelateria, churning out Italian Ice Cream on-site daily, using locally sourced organic milk and sugar, as well as organic gourmet chocolates and nuts. Located in City Market, they also sell delicious organic Italian Coffees and Paninis made with Georgiabaked bread. Customers are guaranteed an authentic Italian gelato experience.

60 flavors of gelato that rotate daily.

“ Italian Gelato served with Southern Flair! Ciao Y’all! ” - joel caplan, owner

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

111

•

20

STAYCATIONS ➸ eat

delve into savannah’s haunted past

Take a Ghost Tour to visit and learn about many of Savannah’s spookiest areas and events…Try Savavannah Movie Tour's Scary Ghost Tour ➼ savannahmovietours.net, 912.234.3440

➼ bonaventure cemetery

•

21

•

get spooked

The Marshall House is the oldest hotel in Savannah. Built in 1851, it once served as a hospital for soldiers during the Civil War. It was also the home of Joel Chandler Harris, author of the Uncle Remus stories.

Rich in heritage, you never know who you might meet here. ➼ 123 East Broughton Street 912.644.7896, marshallhouse.com. Want more? Go to Colonial Park Cemetery and tour the historic cemetery that was once Savannah’s cemetery for over a century. It houses the graves of many important contributors to the city’s history. ➼ 201 E Oglethorpe Ave Savannah

22

see ghost in person

Sixth Sense Savannah is a walking tour of the city that is based strictly on actual personal encounters by Savannah ghost hunters. The walking tour begins at Clary’s Café on Habersham Street and is $20 for adults. We are not responsible for what you encounter along the way! ➼ 1.866.666.

DEAD, sixthsensesavannah.com

Local fare French flair

dine on the river First restaurant on River Street since 1959!

The Grilled Ceasar Salad, Duck Breast, and Lamb Osso Bucco are fast becoming local favorites!

Boar’s Head Grill and Tavern

Swank Bistro

➸ 1 N Lincoln Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.651.9660 | boarsheadgrillandtavern.com

➸ 1 Diamond Causeway Suite 15A | Savannah, Georgia 912.356.3100 | theswankbistro.com | Mon - Sat 5 -10 : 30 pm

L

L

ocated on historic River Street, Boar’s Head Grill and Tavern provides diners with a beautiful view of the river while enjoying fresh, local cuisine like our BBQ Shrimp wrapped in country bacon with a peach BBQ sauce. Guests can expect fine dining in a casual atmosphere highlighted by the amazing, restored 18th-century cotton warehouse.

112

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

ife is too short, have fun and indulge in good fare! Owners Chef Michele Jemison and Donna Brackney introduce Swank Bistro, a local restaurant, reminiscent of a Parisian bistro with a cozy elegant atmosphere. Chef Michele Jemison is passionate about her culinary creations and cooks from the heart. The cuisine ranges from lamb to duck to lobster ravioli with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients. speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

STAYCATIONS ➸ play

THE FACTS What:

they offer the Foody Tour, Walking Foody Tour, Savannah Squared, Walking History Tour, Movie Tour, Martini Tour, Scary Ghost Tour, & the Savannah Shopping Tour. VIP versions of the Movie & Scary Ghost are also available.

Where:

historic savannah

When: • Foody 11am, • Walking Foody 1pm, • Savannah Squared walking history tour 1:30pm, • Movie 3pm • Scary G h ost Su n -Th u r 8 pm & Fr i -Sat 9pm , • Martini Tue-Thur 7:30pm & Fri-Sat 7pm, • Shopping Noon Sundays.

• Private Tours are also available In memory of the late Ron Higgins, founder of Savannah Movie Tours.

January 1964-June 14, 2010

Cost: Cost: varies per tour, call 912-234-3440 to make your reservation today!

“we have a rich hollywood history here in the city, which started back in 1915 with the silent film under southern skies, and since then 85 films have been shot here, 10 winning academy awards. those films also left us with more than 420 movie locations.” — ron higgins

fun for the whole family Savannah movie Tours

There are 87 Savannah-based film sets to explore!

➸ 301 MLK Jr. blvd | Savannah, Georgia 912.234.3440 | savannahmovietours.net

S

avannah native, Ron Higgins, also known as Hollywood Ron, founded Savannah Movie Tours in 2003 to help others discover and share in his passion for films—especially those set in Savannah. He joked that the idea came about from the perpetual line of tourists who asked him for directions to the infamous Forrest

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

Gump bench. During the movie tour, visitors will see over 60 actual movie locations up close while viewing movie clips of the same locations on LCD screens. They also offer 7 other specialty tours and soon the launch of the Savannah Literary Tour!

Tours the whole family can enjoy.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

113

•

23

test the water STAYCATIONS ➸ pl a y

Between kayaking, surfing, swimming and many other ways to enjoy the marshes and beaches, there’s no reason not to break out your swimsuit on your staycation and have some wet and wild fun.

•

24

•

go full throttle

Spend an afternoon cruising around the Atlantic. Tybee Jet Ski and Watersports will get you making waves on their WaveRunners for an awesome day at the beach. Rates start at $69 per hour, plus the cost of fuel. If you’re riding with someone, it’s going to add $10.

They also have a variety of other packages and specials for those who want to spend the entire day in the surf and sun. ➼ 1C Old Highway 80, 912.786.8062, tybeejetski.com

25

go fishing

Between deep-sea fishing, fly fishing and pier fishing, there are numerous options for anyone who likes to relax on the water while enjoying one of the greatest Southern pastimes.

➼ scott wagner

quaint & historic

port wentworth

➸ 7532 ga highway 21 | port wentworth, georgia

912.965.1999 | visitportwentworth.com

K

nown as Savannah’s Front Porch, Port Wentworth is the best place to stay, play, eat and shop near Savannah, Georgia. Whether you’re a history buff searching for lost Savannah River Plantations, a Civil War explorer seeking to walk the living history of Sherman’s march or a family looking for outdoor fun, you’ll find adventure here. The area also offers a variety of golf, fishing, water sports, and hunting. Get ready, get set... now go have fun!

Eli Whitney invented the cottongin in 1793 at the Mulberry Grove Plantation

“start your historical tour of coastal georgia in port wentworth!”

- trisha growe

114

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

26

For example, if you’re scared of sharks, or the dark, try shark fishing at night with Miss Judy Charters. ➼ 24 Palmetto Drive, 912.897.4921, missjudycharters.com. Or, if it’s heights that you fear, try Savannah Heli-tours and experience Savannah from above, taking in breathtaking views of the river, the surrounding islands and historic monuments. ➼ savannahhelitours.com

27

•

express yourself

Head to Anonymous Tattoo or one of the many other tattoo parlors and let their artists help you find an original way to express yourself. ➼ 9 East Bay Street, 912.234.3900, anonymoustattoo. com

28

play a round

Spend an afternoon playing 18 holes at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa’s pristine Troonmanaged golf course. The Westin Savannah proudly hosts the PGA Tour’s Champions Tour Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf every year. They also offer a complimentary water ferry to River Street. ➼ 1 Resort Drive, 912.201.2000, westinsavannah.com/golf

STAYCATIONS ➸ P L A Y

face your fears

•

Take it easy!

savannah Slow Ride

➸ Montgomory Street | Savannah, Georgia

912.414.5634 | savannahslowride.com

S

The only 15 person bicycle downtown!

avannah Slow Ride is an eco-friendly way to see Savannah. Our fifteenperson bicycle excursion (you read that right, 15 people on one bike!) takes you through beautiful historic downtown.

We offer a variety of routes to entertain bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, graduation celebrations, company or retirement parties, pub-crawls or just to leave the hustle and bustle behind.

“we don’t offer any history lessons on this ride, just all the shenanigans you can pack into a slow ride.”

- samantha meier

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

115

•

29

STAYCATIONS ➸ pla y

root for the home team

The Savannah Sand Gnats will take the field for the first game of the season April 7. Get outside and enjoy a night of baseball at historic Grayson Stadium. ➼ 1401 East Victory Drive, 912.351.9150, minorleaguebaseball.com/ index.jsp?sid=t543

•

30

•

explore savannah’s world famous art scene

If you’re looking to add a bit of culture and art to your staycation, look no further than the Telfair Museums. The Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House and the Jepson Center for the Arts pride themselves on their collection of classic and contemporary art. With both rotating and permanent collections ranging in style, time period and medium, there’s guaranteed something for every art lover and history buff. ➼ 121 Barnard Street, 912.790.8800, telfair.org

31

find a one-ofa-kind treasure for your home

Try antiquing at Arthur Smith Antiques which offers 4,000 square feet of the coastal area’s finest antiques right in the heart of downtown Savannah. In the family owned and run store, treasure-seekers will find beautiful and unique furniture, art, lamps, silverware and much more. ➼ 402 Bull Street, 912.236.9701, arthursmithantiques.com

➼ sand gnats

discover history

Old Savannah Tours

➸ 250 Martin Luther King Blvd. | Savannah, Georgia

912.234.8128 | oldsavannahtours.com

F

or over 30 years, Old Savannah Tours has had the pleasure of showing our beautiful city to visitors from all over the U.S. and the world. As the oldest and largest locally owned and operated tour and transportation company in Savannah, we have equipment and services to meet all your needs. From our historic tour to, the Original Paula Deen tour, to our newest ghost tour offering, we’ve been voted best tour company for a reason.

You will never know who you will find on an Old Savnnah Tour!

“come see for yourself why old savannah tours has been voted savannah’s # 1 tour company for 9 years running, 2003-2011.” –will green 116

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

32

A Savannah staycation isn’t complete without a visit to any of Savannah Bee Company’s three Savannah locations. Savannah Bee carries delicious honey and all-natural body care items. Their natural and organic mint julep lip balms have been featured in Marie Claire magazine. ➼ 912.234.0688, savannahbee.com

33

•

ask the locals questions

Even if you’ve been a Savannahian forever, it’s impossible to know everything.

Strike up some friendly conversation and you never know what you may learn from the people who make up the city you love. Whether it’s tips on favorite dining spots or Savannah’s best-kept secrets, you can always learn something. Just do them a favor and don’t ask them where to find Paula Deen.

34

read about your city

STAYCATIONS ➸ P L A Y

buy a savannah specific product

•

Like a good tourist, pick up a book about Savannah at E. Shaver Booksellers. Located on historic Madison Square, this store boasts 12 rooms of books, featuring architecture, regional arts and decorative arts. But don’t worry, if you’re not in the mood for a history lesson, they have plenty of non-Savannah reads as well. They carry a wide variety of classics, children’s books and travel books, among others. ➼ 326 Bull Street, 912.234.7257

rest & relaxation

spa bleu

➸ 101 Bull Street | savannah, Georgia

912.236.1490 | spableu-sav.com It takes 30-60 roses to produce 1 drop of essential oil.

S

pa Bleu welcomes you with the elegance, hospitality and history of the beautiful city of Savannah, Georgia. A touch of the exotic combined with a variety of European and traditional organic spa treatments will refine your experience of true ‘bleu’ Southern comfort. We offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures, thermal body treatments, spray tanning, make-up application, yoga, and more.

“we wanted to create a space that offers a holistic experience, with true ‘bleu’ southern comfort, healing, beauty, art and history. ” - morgan godwin speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

117

•

35

STAYCATIONS ➸ pla y

learn about the city’s most famous read

“The Book” Gift Shop pays homage to the John Berendt’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Find autographed copies of the book and exclusive Midnight souvenirs. ➼ 127 East Gordon Street, 912.233.3867. Still want more?

Head to Bonaventure Cemetery. As the city’s largest municipal cemetery, the cemetery’s 160 acres overlook the scenic Wilmington River. The cemetery became widely known after its part in the novel and later movie. ➼ 330 Bonaventure Road, bonaventurehistorical.org

•

36

•

see a show

Take a night on the town and enjoy a show at the celebrated Lucas Theatre.

Enjoy the documentary film Scrappers or listen to humor writer David Sedaris speak during the month of April. ➼ 32 Abercorn Street, 912.525.5040, lucastheatre.com

37

go to the big show

Johnny Mercer Theatre is housed in the Savannah Civic Center, and you can see Broadway shows and talent from all over the world here. They host a variety of events including concerts, gun and bridal shows, wrestling events and much, much more. This April, Tim McGraw is only one of the many major acts coming to our city. ➼ 301 West Oglethorpe Avenue, 912.651.6556, savannahcivic.com

➼ lucas theatre

the magic of the river dolphin Magic Tours ➸ 313 E. River St. | Savannah, Georgia

800.721.1240 | dolphin-magic.com

C

ome join the crew for an unforgettable cruise toward Tybee Island.

Enjoy a narrated history of Savannah’s historic waterways and savor the beauty of our scenic rivers, marshes and barrier islands. Then….experience the excitement of watching the Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin as they play around our boat.

Dolphin spotting guaranteed!

“ dolphin magic was the highlight of our trip to savannah” -barbra kinsdal memphis, tenn.

118

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

38

Visit one of the numerous trails that surround the Savannah area. Located in Savannah’s backyard, the Skidaway Island State Park Trails have a tropical atmosphere great for nature watching. length: 4.6 miles skill level: Easy duration: 2.5 hours more info: 912.598.2300

Crooked River State Park Trail provides novice hikers with a

scenic trek on the Semper Virens Trail that loops into the marsh and maritime forests.

more info: 803.734.9108 The Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge offers 15 miles

The Nanny Goat Beach Nature Trail starts by the Reynolds

Mansion and offers hikers a chance to see the tidal zone of a salt marsh and view ancient and active dunes. length: 2.5 miles skill level: Easy duration: 2 hours more info: 912.437.3224

of trails through a mixture of hardwood pines, open fields, salt marshes and thickets. length: 15 miles skill level: Easy to moderate duration: 2-4 hours more info:savannahcoastal@fws.gov

STAYCATIONS ➸ P L A Y

take a hike

length: 2.9 miles skill level: Easy duration: 1 hour more info: 912.882.5256

T h e S ava n n a h N at i o n a l Wi l d l i f e R e f u g e , located on

the Georgia and South Carolina border, has an array of beautiful trails. length: 8 miles skill level: Easy duration: 8-10 hours

Cruise the coast

captain derek’s dolphin Adventure tour ➸ Hwy. 80 | Tybee Island, Ga. Lazaretto Creek

912.658.2322 | tybeedolphinadventure.com

C

ome join Capt. Derek as he guides you on a 1-1.5hr cruise along Tybee’s beautiful coast. See Fort Pulaski, the Cockspur and Tybee Island Lighthouses, and shrimp boats in the mouth of the majestic Atlantic Ocean.

Most of all, enjoy the friendly Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin as they play in their natural habitat.

They take over 200 Deep-sea fishing charters per year.

“our fast boat with 700hp. leaves the heat, bugs and our competition wallowing in our wake!” - Captain Derek speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

119

•

39

STAYCATIONS ➸ pla y

enjoy time with your kids

Take a trip to Savannah Children’s Theatre to enjoy a show and watch budding young actors bloom on stage. ➼ 2160 E. Victory Drive, 912.238.9015, savannahchildrenstheatre.org

➼ children’s theatre

•

40

•

learn a new skill

Whether it’s fencing, belly dancing, rowing, painting or gardening, learn a new talent. To have the most fun, go far outside your comfort zone.

41

impress your friends and family

Experience a hands-on cooking event at one of Savannah’s most luxurious hotels. Add variety to your repertoire or learn new culinary techniques as Chef Darin Sehnert, a former chef at the Walt Disney World Resort, leads you to culinary perfection. Trust us, your taste buds, and family, will thank you. ➼ The Mansion on Forsyth Park 700 Drayton Street, mansiononforsythpark.com/cooking_school

➼ fencing

have an adventure

enjoy the show In 1923 it became the first airconditioned building in Savannah.

Your options are only limited by our imagination

Adventures in Savannah ➸ 624 Beauregard St. | Savannah, Georgia 866.709.8687 | adventuresinsavannah.com

A

s a receptive tour operator, which is like a concierge for groups, they do everything from simply recommending a venue to handling all the shore excursions for a large cruise ship. You are only limited by our imagination and your budget.

120

southmaga zine.com apr il | m ay 11

Lucas Theatre ➸ 32 Abercorn St. | Savannah, Georgia 912.525.5040 | lucastheatre.com

A

rthur Lucas and architect C.K. Howell opened the Lucas Theatre in 1921. Lucas owned more than 40 theaters in the South—six of them in Savannah—but the Lucas is the only one to bear his name. It now hosts traveling operas, concerts, live theatre, local productions, and classic and independent films. The Lucas is now celebrating its 90th anniversary! speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

42

Head to the University of Georgia Marine Center and Aquarium and view 50 different species of coastal fish, turtles and invertebrates. ➼ 912.598.FISH, marexuga.edu/aquarium

43

•

pack a picnic and head outside

Lake Mayer Community Park is the perfect spot for a picnic. With jogging trails, a stocked lake, a fishing pier and a variety of pavilions and sports areas, enjoy the spring weather for an hour, or all afternoon! Make it extra easy on yourself and first visit K’Bella Gourmet Carryout. With daily menu selections, this shop boasts “restaurant quality meals to go.” ➼ 119 Charlotte Road, 912.897.4026, kbellagourmetcarryout.com

44

interact with the downtown community

STAYCATIONS ➸ P L A Y

get educated

•

Ellis Square, adjacent to City Market, is the recently renovated urban square that offers space for music or just play, and an interactive fountain. Take a minute to enjoy the city’s first LEED certified project as you check out the visitor’s center located within the square. ➼ cisavannah.ga.us/cityweb

➼ uga aquarium

your sports connection

Speciality Sports

➸ 704 mall blvd. | savannah, georgia

912.352.7081 | specialtysportssavannah.com

S

pecialty Sports was set up to accommodate non-traditional sports we felt were not getting the attention they deserved. For example, soccer has been one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., but until we opened there wasn’t a store focused on soccer. Lacrosse has begun to grow as well and we found the same existed in that sport.

Additionally, we now have one of the largest selections for disc golf, volleyball, wrestling, rugby and swimming in the area.

They have VIP cards that are additional discounts!

“we strive to do our best for our customers every day.”

- jennifer grimes

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

121

STAYCATIONS ➸ pla y

•

45

spot a dolphin W ritten B y M arty O lmstead

On a high tide, under a vanishing full moon, seven of us cast off one February morning from a Richmond Hill marina aboard the 25-foot Salty Dawg. Our mission: to locate, describe, photograph and record the behavior of as many dolphins as possible in the course of six hours spent along creeks, rivers and the Intracoastal Waterway out to Ossabaw Sound and back.

At the helm was Peach Hubbard, president of The Dolphin Project on the Lowcountry coast. The organization was

originally founded in 1988 by Beau Cutts, an Atlanta wildlife writer, in the wake of a mysterious massive dolphin die-off along the Eastern seaboard.

To track dolphins over time and document their movement patterns, The Dolphin Project takes monthly surveys between Hilton Head and Brunswick from January through November.

It is an all-volunteer effort. Everyone on our excursion had taken one of the required free training sessions that impart such nuggets as: bottlenose dolphins, not porpoises, predominate in Georgia and South Carolina coastal waters; their dorsal fins are as identifiable and unique as human fingerprints; and what looks like a smile is actually a natural formation of a dolphin’s jaw that allows salt water to flow out after it has grabbed fish to eat.

All this paled in comparison to what we witnessed first-hand. Every time a dol-

treat yourself to luxury

Poseiden spa

We are the only Spa in Savannah that offers The European Vichy Shower, a treatment using Hydrotherapy that centers the body, improves circulation and eliminates toxins.

➸ 700 Drayton St. Lower Level of the Hotel | Savannah, Georgia 912.721.5004 | mansiononforsythpark.com/poseidonspa/

F

rom the moment you walk through our door, stress will become a mere memory as you enter a setting of lavish comfort, elegance and unparalleled five-star guest service. A full-service spa, offering ladies’ and gentleman’s locker rooms with steam showers, shower amenities and lockers with plush robes and slippers.

122

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

phin was sighted, the captain cut the engine, allowing us to drift as long as it took to document the “event.” By 4 pm, we’d counted 43 dolphins, including one that made a full breach in a spectacular display of grace and power.

We also learned not to disturb the dolphins by coming between them or venturing too close. How do you know when you’re too close? The dolphins will smack their flukes on the surface of the water. It’s dolphin-speak for “Back off, Bubba!” ➼ For more information, visit thedolphinproject.org

ride in style

We have special packages depending on the season.

signature car service, LLC ➸ PO BOX 1713 | Savannah, georgia 31402 912.713.0050 | signaturecarservice@comcast.net

T

hey provide small group transportation to any location in the South. All of our drivers are courteous, professional and are run through drug screens and an extensive background check.

Our goal is to provide a stress free service so that you can relax and enjoy your ride. We are available 24 hours a day 365 days a year. speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

Gaucho has been providing down-

town savannah

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

THE FACTS with some of the

fi n e st fa s h i o n for over 22 years.

What:

high end boutique they carry many exclusive labels such as LundsrÖm, chloe & reese, sarah campbell, marisa baratelli, french sole shoes, zelda, and flax.

Where:

251 Bull Street & 18 East Broughton

When: • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm • Sunday 1-5

Hair by karaline

“each individual customer is provided with one on one service which includes anything from parking your car to delivery of your clothes.” — kevin ambrose

unique stylish & exclusive Gaucho

Now exclusively offering jewlery by deisgner French Kande.

➸ 251 Bull Street | 912.232.7414

18 East broughton Street | 912.234.7414 | gauchosav.com

T

his modern boutique carries the latest lines in women’s vogue, including everything from generic, fun-colored sunglasses to lavish gowns and dresses by Marisa Baratelli, suiting by Zelda. They also carry an array of unique

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

accessories including jewelry by French Kande, Xtasia, Bora Rings, wood-carved bracelets and crocodile belts. They have a wide selection of dress shoes from designers such as French Sole and chic handbags from fashion houses like Emre of New York.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

123

•

46

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

shop till you drop downtown

City Market encompasses art galleries, dining venues and shopping all together on the original site of a market farmers and traders once used in the 1700s. In the bustling atmosphere, locals and tourists can enjoy live music, outdoor dining, original art galleries and much more. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s also just a hop and skip from anywhere else you could want to go. ➼ savannahcitymarket.com

•

47

•

shop with a view of the water

River Street Marketplace allows for shopping in the open air, in re-created sheds replicating those from the 1800s.

The shops perfectly embody the history and style of Savannah. Shoppers will find everything from hand-crafted jewelry to unique pieces of art to traditional Savannah-inspired trinkets. The best part is that you can watch the ships go down the river as you browse! ➼ riverstreetmarketplace.com

48

hit the open road

Whether you’re making a purchase or trying out a bike for the first time, this is an experience you won’t forget! Head to Savannah Harley-Davidson to look at or rent bikes and to Renegade Classics for gear. ➼ savannahhd.com, renegadeclassics.com

➼ provided by michael sullivan

contemporary & affordable

Trunk 13 ➸ 414 whitaker street | savannah, Georgia

912.349.4129 | facebook.com/trunk13

T

runk 13 carries contemporary women’s apparel, shoes and accessories that are inspired by fashion, driven by quality and defined by style. They currently feature over 15 different lines and will continue to bring their customers new ones that fit their store aesthetic. Whether you need one-on-one styling assistance or you prefer being on your own, trunk 13 is going to be a relaxed, friendly environment during your visit.

Handmade jewelry from local designer Kate Bordine now available!

“i believe that beautiful clothes and accessories that are well made and reasonably priced are out there and it is my mission to provide that for savannah.” - lindsay lemaster 124

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

We shipped over 3,000 purchases

to our visiting

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

THE FACTS tourists last year!

What:

Furniture & Home Accessories

Where:

In the heart of downtown on Broughton Street

When: 10-6 mon-sat 12-6 sun Cost: home accessories from $8

“ we provide the style

and elegance you and your home deserve.”

— Dean Caldarelli

inspired interior design DC2 design interiors

DC2 Design has been open for 7 years!

➸ 109 West Broughton Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.233.2870 | DC2design.com

D

C2 Design Interiors offers a vast selection of home design elements that are not only stylish but affordable. Furniture, lighting, draperies and accessories are selected specifically for the store by the owners who are nationally recognized designers. The

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

elegant showroom is ever evolving with new merchandise and inspiring style! They carry a range of designers, most notably furniture and lighting by Candice Olsen of HGTV. Many of the pieces are custom designed by Dean Caldarelli, an architect and one of the owners.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

125

•

49

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

appreciate southern eccentricities

Dixieland Cruisers Car Club, a local car club that started back in 1987, has their annual car show coming up this spring on April 15 and 16, so mark it down on your calendar and take in some muscle car strength or relish the good old days with classic cars. After all, is there anything more Southern than getting under the hood of a classic car? ➼ dixielandcruisers.freeservers.com

•

50

•

get some speed

You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy a nice day on the water. There are many local places to rent a boat for the day!

Try The Freedom Boat Club. ➼ 2812 River Drive, 912.691.2628, freedomboatclub.com

51

skip the tourist spots

Escape the lines and crowds, but don’t sacrifice the satisfaction of a good Southern meal. President Obama went to Mrs. Wilkes and we suggest you try it too. ➼ 107 West Jones Street, 912.232.5997, mrswilkes.com

➼ THE freedom boat club

play dress up

Enjoy a tea party or glide down the child-size runway!

stylish & comfortable

Over 25 styles of handmade shoes in 40 colors and fabrics!

Sara Jane Children’s Boutique

Savannah & Charleston Shoe Co.

➸ 202 e. 37th street | savannah, georgia 912.234.5266 | sarajanekids.com

➸ 226 W. Broughton St. | Savannah, Georgia 912.232.2334 | savannahshoeco.com

S 126

ara Jane creates an environment full of imagination and whimsy. Located in Sister’s Court in the Savannah historic district, they offer newborn to size 8 for girl and boys.

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

S

avannah & Charleston Shoe Co.’s styles are comfortable and appealing to women of all ages and lifestyles. Our “cobblestones to cocktail shoes” can be worn all day long and then to any party or event. These shoes don’t wear you, you wear them! speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

52

Treat yourself to an upscale meal at one of Savannah numerous fine-dining spots. Go to southmagazine.com/ guide for a complete listing of places to eat.

➼ belford’s savannah

53

•

eat outdoors

There’s no better place to enjoy fresh Southern seafood than by the beach.

Tybee and the other local islands boast an enormous selection of eateries where patrons can enjoy some fair fare and a beautiful sunset. Try The Crab Shack to see live alligators with your meal.

54

pick out your own veggies

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

indulge in fine dining

•

At Davis Produce, the location of Jamie Deen’s recent TV pilot, enjoy the coastal area’s bounty of fresh fruits and veggies. Find boiled peanuts, seasonal Southern-grown plants and even gift items. But, before you head out to the shop, call ahead. Their hours and days of operation shift with the seaons.

But, if you’re lucky enough to catch them, you won’t be disappointed. ➼ 7755 Hwy 80 East, 912.507.6164

➼ the crab shack

eclectic decor & design The emporium at habersham ➸ 404 E. Hall Street | savannah, georgia

912.335.2282 | theemporiumsavannah.com

T

he Emporium At Habersham focuses on exceeding customer’s expectations in the selection, look and quality of their furnishings and the length to which decorating dollars can be stretched.

The boutique showcases an inspired selection of discounted designer chairs and upholstery and an extensive collection of ready-made and custom drapery panels. The ambience guarantees a stress free, fun shopping experience.

Also hosts a large art gallery selling the works of more than 20 local artists! speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

“our shop is savannah’s new marketplace for home décor. with collections from around the world, we offer a unique and exciting eclectic mix with something for every design style.” - tricia hamilton stacy a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

127

•

55

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

find a hidden secret W R I T T E N B Y J essica L eigh L ebos

Drive by just a few miles over the speed limit and you might miss it.

Triangulated by seven lanes of traffic, a maintenance yard for the city’s fire trucks and a regional post office mega-site, Savannah’s Botanical Garden is an unlikely slice of paradise in the middle of the southside.

But once you’ve found the entrance, you’re privy to a serene hidden world.

The Gardens’ resident tomcat might greet you from the porch of the white clapboard 19th-century farmhouse that sits at the front of the property. This storied home—one of only two examples of antebellum farmhouses in the area—was built by

the Reinhard family in 1839 and once stood at the site of Hillcrest Cemetery downtown.

The house had to be moved twice over the centuries, once to make way for the cemetery and again for the Truman Parkway. It was saved from demolition in 1992 by the Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs, which brought it to the acreage it acquired from the city in the 1980s and now makes its headquarters among its charming spaces.

The council’s vice president, Ken Power, has been toiling in the soil of these grounds for almost two decades. After a quick tour of the Reinhard Farmhouse and its small library, this master gardener sweeps his arm out, trying to encompass all ten acres. “Here at the back of the house is our herb and vegetable gardens,” pointing to a small brick labyrinth punctuated by shrubs of lemon balm, thyme and other useful aromatics as well as several beds of robust greens that will be joined by toma-

fashion forward

FaB’rik

eclectic & fun

Fine purveyors of style from around the world.

One fish two fish

➸ 318 West Broughton St | Savannah, Georgia 912. 234.8470 | fabriksavannah.com

➸ 401 Whitaker Street | Savannah, Georgia 912.447.4600 | onefishstore.com

ab’rik is a high fashion boutique, mixed with a hip hang out, ready to conquer any woman’s shopping desires. Everything in the store is priced under $100 (except denim) so you know what to expect when you walk in the door. Amidst the laid-back environment, you’ll find fashion forward clothes, accessories, shoes, handbags, artwork and a water bar!

Located in an upscale residential section of historic Savannah, One Fish Two Fish is an anchor store for the Downtown Design District. It is an exquisite gift shop with an eclectic selection of home decor, luxurious linens, nautical pieces, art, jewelry and handbags.

F

128

Fab’rik also has Savannah’s first men’s lounge ready to entertain the oftenignored shopping companion.

toes, carrots and peppers come early summer. “And that pomegranate tree is the center of the butterfly patch.”

The path continues toward several arbored spaces, boasting a native plant plot designed by Pat Ryan where lizards dart in and out of leaves, a children’s garden full of sturdy flowers the little ones can recognize and several plots dedicated as memorials to prominent community gardeners. Then, there are the roses: Circles among colorful circles of prize-winning strains with names like “Double Delight” and “Touch of Class.” Rosarian Harry Howard presides over almost 60 varieties of roses in yellows, reds, pinks, coral and even silvery purple— and this stunning collection will be in full bloom for the first-ever Savannah Rose Festival, April 29-May 1 ➼ please visit savannahbotanical.org for details.

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

L

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

•

56

•

57

•

58

go out for a night on the town

try the local brew

Savannah boasts a fabulous nightlife with endless options for live music, entertainment and other fun activities.

Go to southmagazine.com/ guide for a complete listing.

Moon River Brewing Company is located on Bay Street. This one-of-akind restaurant and brewery is committed to providing its guests with a relaxed atmosphere, mouthwatering food and great beer brewed in-house. ➼ 21 West Bay Street, 912.447.0943, moonriverbrewing.com

➼ mathews seafood

➼ saya

➼ moon river

Stop by Mathews Seafood and pick up the freshest local shrimp and fish in the area. ➼ 121 Kicklighter Way, 912.964.1244

STAYCATIONS ➸ shop

catch the freshest seafood around

the art & soul of savannah city market ➸ Jefferson Street at W. St. Julian Street | Savannah, Georgia

912.232.4903 | savannahcitymarket.com

C

ity Market comprises a four-block area of restored warehouses and shop fronts adjacent to Ellis Square. This charming, marketplace has a wealth of things to do in Savannah whether you come for the art, entertainment, to shop, dine or just rest your weary feet.

Hosting daily entertainment in the courtyard and many great events throughout the year, City Market offers the best of Savannah.

City Market has been open for 24 years!

don’t forget that when visiting establishments in city market, you’re supporting many of your neighbors. a large amount of city market businesses are locally owned and operated.

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

129

STAYCATIONS ➸ t y b ee i sla n d

•

59

•

60

•

indulge your sweet tooth

take a daycation

Remember the good ‘ol days with a creamy malt, an ice cream cone from tons of flavor options or a float at Leopold’s Ice Cream. ➼ 212 East Broughton Street, 912.234.4442, leopoldsicecream.com

Kelly tours Savannah is located in a great spot to take day trips or daycations. For about $100 a person, Kelly Tours has lined up many exciting daycations from going to Atlanta to see a Braves game or the Georgia Aquarium to the Charleston Tea Plantation. ➼ 2788 US Highway 80 West, 912.964.2010, kellytours.com

➼ leopold’s ice cream

➼ georgia aquarium

fun with friends

61

send a postcard

You may still be within Savannah’s city limits, but there’s no reason not to treat your staycation like you would a regular vacation. Decide on your favorite recently discovered spot, and send a postcard to loved ones. They’ll be heading to Savannah in no time and wishing their vacation was a staycation. And luckily in Savannah, unique postcards, stationary and cards are easy to come by as there are a plethora of Lowcountry artists who create beautiful and customized pieces of art for you to personalize and send back home.

discover wildlife Kayaking for 3 hours burns an average of 1,000 calories!

The Atlantic bottlenosed dolphins are fun loving, aquatic mammals. They are intelligent and are unusually friendly.

North Island Surf and Kayak ➸ 1 C Old Tybee Road | Tybee Island, Georgia 912.786.4000 | northislandkayak.com

J

oin us just across the Lazaretto Creek Bridge on beautiful Tybee Island! North Island Surf and Kayak is a small, family-owned waterman operation. We specialize in kayak, surf and paddleboard rentals and eco-tours. Surf and paddleboard lessons available also.

130

southmaga zine.com a pr il | m ay 11

Captain mike dolphin Tours ➸ 1 Old us hwy 80 | tybee island, Georgia 912.786.5848 | tybeedolphins.com

E

xperience the pleasure of watching the Atlantic bottle nosed dolphin play in their natural habitat while enjoying the beauty of nature and the scenery of the Cockspur Lighthouse, Ft. Pulaski and the Tybee Lighthouse in this one to one and a half hour narrated tour. speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

Please join us for our Kayak Kamps this summer for

STAYCATIONS ➸ T YB E E I S L A ND

THE FACTS Adults and Children What:

Sea Kayak Outfitter

Where:

Tybee Island, GA

When:

Everyday Tour Hours & Retail Hours

Cost: Varies by activity

“ we at sea kayak georgia love to share our knowledge and appreciation of our dynamic tidal environment. ronnie and I invite you to join us for some kayaking instruction, tidal planning and enjoyment

enjoy the coast Sea Kayak georgia

of the coast and tybee island.” - marsha henson If you live on the water or have a community dock we can come to you and assist you in a fun safe day of instruction or games.

➸ 1102 highway 80 east | tybee island, georgia 912.786.8732 | seakayakgeorgia.com

G

et into the water lifestyle for fitness, fun and relaxation. Sea Kayak Georgia provides tours, rentals, instruction and guide service for the coast. We maintain a full fleet of Nigel Dennis Kayaks to enhance your fitness performance. Come by for a demonstration to take your outdoors water experience to

speci a l a dv ertor i a l sect ion

the next level. This summer we invite adults and children to our Kayak Kamp offered weekly during June, July and August. Sea Kayak Georgia offers a healthy form of recreation and fitness paddling that’s a perfect way for the community to explore and enjoy our intricate network of waterways.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

131

eat T H E

F O O D

R E S T A U R A N T S

• A S WA N K Y S H A N K

o f

|

t h e

S O U T H

C H E F S

|

F O O D

134 136 dishes to dine for

who’s got game?

Michele Jemison, co-owner and chef of the newly-opened Swank Bistro, says the key to perfecting an osso bucco dish (braised lamb shank) is to use traditional preparation methods that begin by cooking the meat for 8 hours until it’s falling off the bone.

“I serve it over challot, cabernetinfused mashed potatoes. with a light mist of truffle oil and shaven asiago cheese. It also comes with a caramelized vegetable set,” Jemison says.

She suggests pairing the dish with a spicy red wine like a zinfandel or cabernet.

MORE INFO

912.356.3100 1 Diamond Causeway

Go to southmagazine.com for a guide to local cuisine

132

southmaga zine.com

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 132

a pr il | m ay 11

PHOTOGR A PH Y BY A NGEL A HOPPER

3/28/11 11:19 AM

{ DINING GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 133

southmaga zine.com

133

3/28/11 11:20 AM

E AT

e

Snow Crab Dinner AJ’s Dockside Restaurant When hungry, most people don’t want to have to work for their food, with one almost universal exception: having the chance to dig into a heaping pile of hot, freshly steamed snow crab legs. And anyone who loves crab legs knows that one pound almost always leaves you craving more. So AJ’s Dockside created their 2-pounder dinner. “Our crab legs are so fresh,” says AJ’s owner Alan Burn. “You would think we caught them right off our own dock.” With the choice of two side dishes, we suggest their vegetable of the day, along with their amazing fries. So grab a table on their dock, soak in the view and get crackin’. 1315 Chatham Avenue, Tybee Island, 912.786.9533, ajsdocksidetybee.com

Dishes to Dine For DINING AL FRESCO W R I T T E N BY W E N DY M A R S H A L L PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE DUNKLE

Thai Tuna and Spinach Salad North Beach Bar and Grill Sandwiched between the beach and the Tybee Lighthouse, lies the North Beach Bar and Grill, a weatherworn beach shack that has been serving up laid-back libations and fantastic fare for over 15 years. Whether you decide to down a quick bite before you head to the beach, or stop in after a long day in the sun, the Thai Tuna and Spinach Salad is sure to be a palate pleaser. Layered upon a mound of fresh, raw spinach leaves are four succulent slices of rare sesame-encrusted seared tuna, topped with slivers of red onions and whole cashews.

It’s accompanied by the chef’s homemade Thai salad dressing.

“It’s not a complex salad, but it’s an example of what can happen when you get all the right ingredients working in tandem together,” says co-owner George Spriggs. 33 Meddin Drive, Tybee Island, 912.786.4442 134

southmaga zine.com

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 134

Grilled Fish Tacos Bonna Bella Yacht Club Bonna Bella Yacht Club is a casual, waterfront dining spot and local secret that was recently featured on the Food Network’s Chefs vs. City.

Chef Ben Melton, newly relocated here from Atlanta, says, “Our focus here is on fresh, flavorful food, including wild Georgia shrimp.” Their specialty of the house – a perfect pair of fresh fish tacos, created with your choice of three different preparation options: Caribbean spice with curried papaya relish, South American spice with tomatillo salsa verde, or lemon pepper spice with Pico de Gallo and a creamy caper sauce. Plated next to Caribbean-style rice and beans, these tacos have just the right amount of spice to give them zip! 2740 Livingston Avenue, Savannah 912.352.3133, bonnabellayachtclub.com

a pr il | m ay 11

3/28/11 11:20 AM

{ DINING GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 135

southmaga zine.com

135

3/28/11 11:20 AM

who ’ s got

game ? w r i t t e n b y A N I S S A DAW N M A N Z O p h o t o g ra p h y b y A N G E L A H O P P E R

W H E T H E R I T R U N S O R F LI E S , G A M E D I S H E S C A N B E R AT H E R I N T I M I DAT I N G TO T RY, M U C H LE S S P R E PA R E FO R YO U R S E LF. LU C K I LY, SAVA N N A H B OA S T S A TO P N OTC H S E LEC T I O N O F F I N E R E S TAU R A N T S A N D B I S T R O S W H O S E OW N E R S A N D C H E FS A R E Q U I T E PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T B R I N G I N G T H E W I LD O N TO O U R P L AT E S A N D I N TO O U R OT H E RW I S E D O M E S T I C PA L AT E S .

CAFE 37 >>> The Lapin de Printemps ($30) Rabbit has long been known as nature’s harbinger of spring and Blake Elsinghorst’s Lapin de Printemps (or rabbit of the spring) is a fresh and light dish that lives up to its reputation. At Cafe 37, the rabbit is braised for two hours in an aromatic vegetable stock with bay leaves and thyme, ready only when the meat is tender enough to almost fall off the bone.

The braised leg of rabbit is then dusted in flour, pan-fried in butter and settled on a puree of celery root. Garnished with cardamom infused baby carrots, the leg of rabbit is covered in a reduction made of Riesling wine, whole grain mustard and heavy cream. Completing the dish are rabbit and veal sausages that are first poached in milk simmering in juniper berries then browned in butter. For color, the dish is drizzled with parsley oil that has been blanched, shocked and blended to a bright green that reminds you, if the

136

southmaga zine.com

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 136

rabbit does not, that spring is finally here.

Pairing: What’s the perfect wine for the spring dish? The Domaine Des Huards Cour-Cheverny Romorantin. This white wine is produced from one of the rarest grapes in the world. Legend has it that it was first planted in the Loire region by King Francis I (1494-1547) and Elsinghorst explains that it’s “an extremely clean white with a stripe of minerality running down the center.” And although the rabbit is seasonal, the wine is always on the list.

• 205 EAST 37TH STREET 912.236.8533 | CAFE37.COM

CIRCA 1875 >>> Wild Boar Chop ($26) Chef David Landrigan’s Roasted Wild Boar Chop is a tasty twist on the common chop. Like many “wild” dishes, diners might assume it has a heavier

game flavor compared with its fattier domestic counterpart. However, explains Landrigan, the taste is actually a bit milder. To create his signature flavor, Landrigan uses a chili dust that he rubs on the chop and then sears the meat, sautéing it in bacon fat. He finishes the chop in an anise-flavored demi-glace of caramelized bacon. This sweet smokiness brings out the flavor in the meat, which is nestled on a bed of sweet potato ducats browned in the oven. Swiss chard, a lighter alternative to collard greens, is sautéed in garlic and seasoned with salt, pepper and a little Tabasco for heat.

Pairing: Landrigan recommends his favorite wine for the dish, Chateau Routas Wild Boar Cabernet Sauvignon (the name is merely coincidence). If you prefer a white wine, he suggests pairing the chop with a buttery sauvignon blanc or a Riesling.

• 48 WHITAKER STREET 912.443.1875 | CIRCA1875.COM

a pr il | m ay 11

3/28/11 11:20 AM

CIRCA 1875 •WILD BOAR CHOP

CAFE 37 •THE LAPIN DE PRINTEMPS

a pr il | m ay 11

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 137

southmaga zine.com

137

3/28/11 11:20 AM

TWO WAYS TO SKIN A DUCK...

BRASSERIE 529

BRASSERIE 529 •SEARED DUCK LEG CONFIT

Seared Duck Leg Confit ($11)

A different spin on duck is Brasserie 529’s Seared Duck Leg Confit, served with a green apple, cranberry and walnut ragout. Confit, from the French, is defined as a piece of meat (generally duck) that is braised slowly in its own fat for both flavor and preservation.

John Roelle considers it a comforting dish with berries, nuts and apples. It is not surprising that the very foods a duck would enjoy complement the meat’s flavor. “There’s a million ways you can cook a duck,” John says to the novice, “but take my advice and don’t overcook it.” Pairing: When asked what would pair nicely with this particular dish, Roelle unexpectedly responded with a Pilsner rather than a wine.

• 529 EAST LIBERTY STREET 912.238.0045 | BRASSERIE529.COM

Un Goût De France

NOBLE FARE •DUCK-DUCK-DUCK-NO GOOSE

(A Taste Of France) WHETHER YOU’RE A NEWCOMER TO THE F R E N C H CU LI NARY WO R LD O R S E LF P RO C L A I M E D G O U R M A N D, TH I S G U I D E G I V E S YO U S O M E O F T H E BA S I C S F O R NAVIGATING FRENCH CUISINE.

is the natural pan drippings or juice that come from a roasting pan after deglazing.

AU JUS

A BRASSERIE is style of French restaurant with a relaxed, upscale setting and traditionally is complete with white linen tablecloths and professional service.

To CONFIT means to slowly cook pieces of meat in their own fat until very soft and tender with seasonings, brandy/ wine and sometimes vegetables. or deglazing means to swirl out the pan with wine or juice to remove the browned bits and remaining flavors from the pan, which are typically then used in a gravy or sauce.

DÉGLACER

NOBLE FARE

Duck-Duck-Duck-No Goose ($34)

Chef Patrick McNamara begins his duck dish by scoring the meat at a 45 degree angle with a razor sharp knife that completely cuts through the skin. Rubbed down with a cinnamon, clove and allspice rub, the duck is then rendered skin side down until it’s completely crisp in a 500-degree oven for five minutes.

Prepared this way, the seared duck leg confit is crisp, tender and juicy. But before the duck is seared, it is braised in its own duck fat for three hours. It’s served with an herbed risotto and pan seared foie gras.

Roasted shallots and wilted spinach complete the dish and McNamara explains that the dish is assembled so the textures complement each other. Pairing: Aptly enough, a favorite wine of his paired with this meal is the Duck Pond Merlot. The flavor of dried cherries and a hint of chocolate bring out the juicy savory flavor of the duck without overpowering it.

• 321 JEFFERSON STREET | 912.443.3210 | NOBLEFARE.COM 138

southmaga zine.com

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 138

A DEMI-GLACE is a rich brown sauce, traditionally made from veal stock and sauce espagnole, which is used on its own or as a base for another sauce. is a French delicacy made from the fattened liver of a duck or goose with a rich, buttery and delicate flavor.

FOIE GRAS

HERBES DE PROVENCE is a blend of herbs consisting of chervil, tarragon, chives, rosemary and lavender, used to flavor many dishes in the south of France.

To SAUTÉ a dish is to cook it very quickly over direct heat while always moving the food to prevent burning.

a pr il | m ay 11

3/28/11 11:20 AM

[5] Apr-May11_EAT2.indd 139

3/28/11 11:20 AM

play T h e

l i f e s t y l e

e v e n t s

• The rise of a sport

a n d

|

l e i s u r e

o f

t h e

S o u t h

e n t e r t a i n m e n t

141 142 144 146 158 meet manolo blahnik

art news and notes

an ultra adventure

upward bound

scenes of the south

written by olivia lauren hawk

There’s no doubt that in the South Friday-night football rules the roost when it comes to athletic traditions. But if you look closely, a new pastime is making an impression in the Deep South. That little-known Northern-born pastime is the game of lacrosse.

The sport officially landed at Savannah College of Art and Design in 2003, with coach Mike Cummings leading the pack. The recent rise of the sport was also seen at The Savannah Lacrosse Club, Coastal Empire Lacrosse and Benedictine Military school.

Go to southmagazine.com for a complete guide to events and entertainment.

140

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

photogr a ph y by tay lor block

SM: So you still enjoy your small, family-run company?

It is absolutely the truth. I don’t want to be taken over by huge companies. I hate fashion, in fact—no, but I love fashion as such. I don’t understand what fashion is nowadays, simply because it is too fast, it’s too quick, and we have the Internet. What I don’t understand is this kind of thing. I think fashion, yes, is important. … It’s nature that things have to move, and change. Nature changes, everything changes. But in fashion—objects of fashion—you should pick up a beautiful jacket and have it for the next 20 years. Invest in a beautiful jacket. Invest in a beautiful glove. Invest in beautiful shoes.

I went the other day to a fashion night at the Number 10 with the Prime Minister’s wife and Mrs. Wintour, and I had two or three young designers of shoes say, “Oh, thank you, Mr. Blahnik, because you help me to do what I do now, and I’m going to be taken over by huge companies.” I say: don’t. If I inspire anything, please don’t let yourself.

MB:

SM: Can you expand on your advice to young fashion designers?

MB: Stay small; don’t be greedy; and do learn your job dutifully. I was not very successful in the beginning. I’m impatient now with age, but I wasn’t that. I was doing my own work, learning more things: about doing the shoes, how to treat the public, how to treat the press, how to do this.

SM: If you could switch careers, if you weren’t a world famous shoe designer, what career would you be doing now?

Lately, I mean I have whims and things like that, but I always have a constant thing in my life: I love movies and I would be restoring old movies. If I had the means and the time, I would be doing that.

Or maybe if I was a little bit younger and stronger, I would be a stonemason. I love it.

MB:

scad style event:

Meet Manolo T h e wo r ld - r e n ow n e d fa s h i o n e v e n t, S C AD s t y le , o f f i c i a lly b eg i n s A p r i l 2 5 , a n d i s o n c e ag a i n b r i n g i n g w i t h i t a h o st o f A - li s t fa s h i o n g u r u s , i n c lu d i n g t h e i co n i c S pa n i s h s h o e d e s i g n e r M a n o lo B l a h n i k , w h o w i ll r ec e i v e t h e A n d r é Leo n Ta lle y Li f e t i m e Ac h i e v e m e n t Awa r d. I n a n e xc lu s i v e i n t e rv i e w, S o u t h ta lk e d w i t h B l a h n i k a b o u t o u r fa i r c i t y, t h e e v e r - c h a n g i n g fa s h i o n i n d u s t ry a n d, o f co u r s e , s h o e d e s i g n .

SM: This is our adventure issue. What has been your greatest adventure to date or what do you consider exciting and adventurous?

If I could take a sabbatical, I would do the temples of India. That would be a great adventure. And then another time before I get too rusty, I could go to Spain and do the churches. Three years ago, I did all of the churches in Italy and Sicily. I would like to do that again. I love churches. I love architecture. … The visual impact of all these things is a big adventure to me.

MB:

SM: I think you’re going to love exploring Savannah. Have you been here before?

w r i t t e n by m i t c h e l l h a l l , fa s h i o n e d i t o r

Are you kidding? I love the South. I’ve been to Savannah, yes, and I love one site: I spent one day with a friend at the Bonaventure Cemetery.

MB:

South magazine: With the Manolo Blahnik name thoroughly ingrained into pop cult u r e — S e x a n d t h e C i t y p h e n o m e n o n, Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette—how

SM: I’ve been reviewing your spring collection; it looks great.

With shoes, I just get in love with some of them for five seconds, and then I get in love with some of them for all of my life.

MB:

does it feel to be the most iconic shoe designer in the world?

I’ve been going for so many years, I don’t remember numbers, or how ingrained in pop culture, or whatever. [I have] no perception about things like that. It’s always a great, great thing, yes. People ask me, the taxi drivers in New York ask me, “How’s business?” Some people know me, yes. But I’m not very much …

M a nolo Bla h n i k :

141

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

SM: Which one of Manolo Blahnik’s shoes does every girl need in her closet? If they can’t afford any other shoe from your collection, which one should they choose?

MB: You can have one shoe that you can have forever, to take care of: it’s like a pump—beautiful—called BB Pump. It’s such a beautiful pump.

I like that pump; it’s not like all of the shoes you see around. It’s got something different; I don’t know what it is.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

141

p l ay

p

3. Bertha Husband, The Wreck of the Iolaire, 2005-06 3. Gallery S.P.A.C.E.

1. Alex Grey, Journey of the Wounded Healer, 1984-85

April 8–29 Scottish native Bertha Husband has been creating politically charged paintings and installations nationally and internationally for the past 30 years.

She also works as a drawing teacher at SCAD Savannah. She hopes her artistic vision will have an effect on political radicals. Don’t miss your chance to view the work at her upcoming exhibition at Gallery S.P.A.C.E., 9 W. Henry St. The show is free and open to the public. Savannahg a.gov/arts

2. Daly Smith, Winter Marsh

Gallery News & Notes Tour these local galleries for this s e a s o n ’ s m u s t- s e e e x h i b i t i o n s . written by Amy Desselle

4. Roque Silva 1. Jepson Center

March 3–May 29 Psychedelic: Optical and Visionary Art Since the 1960s features 24 artists whose work uses different mediums and styles but share the common psychedelic theme.

The group is made up of several artistic pioneers and explores an aesthetic that began in the 60s and has progressed over the years. The exhibition runs from March 3 to May 29. Telfair.or g 2. Friedman Fine Art Gallery

April 1–30 The work of Daly Smith will be featured at the Friedman Fine Art Gallery at 28 W. State St. for the month of April. Smith is a local Georgia architect and artist. His art strives to meet his architectural style — clean and simplistic — by paring down the essentials of the scene and emphasizing key elements. Be sure to check out his landscapes and water paintings. Friedmansfineart.com

4. Broughton & Bull (2nd floor)

May 19 The Art to Change the World exhibition, which takes place on the second floor of the Broughton & Bull restaurant, 7–11 p.m., features the paintings of Colombian-born artist Roque Silva. Greatly influenced by the work of Jackson Pollock and other abstract expressionist painters, Silva strives to capture the essence of his subjects through portrait painting and abstraction. He plans to donate all the proceeds from his show to the homeless of Savannah. Don’t miss your chance to see some inventive new art and help your community.

R oqueg allery.com

do you have art news and notes to share? e-mail editor@thesouthmag.com

142

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

{ GALLERY GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

143

the Local Lineup An ultramarathon may not be in t h e i mm e d i at e f u t u r e fo r t h es e l o c a l s , bu t a n y r u n n e r k n ows , racing is all about taking things one step at a time.

David Howard 42 Hometown: Waycross, Georgia Profession: Holistic life coach Years running: Since I can remember, I have always had a passion for running.

It started after I ran in a few races as a kid with my uncle, but I didn’t get back into competitive racing until I was 32.

Currently training for: An iron man in Florida.

I run because: I run for overall well being—physical, mental health—and I enjoy the freedom of running. Lucky for me, I have I turned my passion of running and fitness into a career. I’m a holistic lifestyle coach, personal trainer and massage therapist who gets to work with other runners.

Name:

Age:

would you ever attempt an ultra?:

Heck no!

Rob Horton 41 Hometown: Savannah, Georgia Profession: Hairstylist and owner of Rob’s at Drayton Tower Currently training for: A half ironman triathlon, followed by the Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon in November, here in Savannah.

I run because: I used to sit on barstools as my hobby, and it was like Groundhog Day, nothing ever changed. So if things don’t change ... things don’t change. And now I run. I’m a hero to my wife and kids.

Name: Age:

would you ever attempt an ultra?:

My little brother runs ultramarathons.

He did a 50-miler last halloween, and that was awe-inspiring. Never in a million years would I have ever thought I’d be training for a Half Ironman Triathlon and a marathon back to back. So yes, anything is possible.

144

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

it typically takes 4 to 5 days to comp lete all

miles of an ultramarathon. runners often camp or sleep on the side of the road to re st.

Are you up for the challenge? ➼ WRITTEN

BY K e l l y Sk i n n e r | p h o t o g r a p h y b y j o h n f u l t o n p h o t o g r a p h y

T h r e e y e a r s ag o, a s Joh n T e e pl e s drov e f rom S ava n n a h b a c k t o h i s h o m e i n C o l u m b u s , G e o rg i a , h e co u l d n ’ t h e l p b u t wo n d e r , “ W h y h av e n ’ t I t r i e d ru n n i n g t h i s b e fo r e ? ” G r a n te d, m o s t p e o p l e d o n ’ t c o n t e m p l at e t r av e r s i n g 2 6 0 m i l e s b y f o o t, b u t T e e p l e s i s n ’ t yo u r av e r age Joe . H e ’ s w h at you ’ d ca ll a n extr e m e at h l e t e , a n d h e r e p r e s e n t s a u n i q u e c l a s s o f at h l e t e s k n ow n a s u lt r a m a r at h o n e r s .

While most athletes and general sports enthusiasts consider a marathon an enormous feat, some runners, like John Teeples, consider it just a warm-up. Teeples is an ultrarunner and part of a pack of athletes who put back miles Forrest Gump style, running somewhere between 100 and 200 miles a week for the pure joy of running. If you’ve read The New York Times best-seller Born to Run or heard about Stefaan Engels’ recent completion of 365 marathons in 365 days, you have a pretty accurate idea on the caliber of an ultra-athlete.

“When I’m running ultradistances, I get to be outside and see things I’d never see at home or in the car,” says Teeples. “It’s a good way to get away from the concerns of your everyday hectic lifestyle.

It’s spiritual; it’s emotional; it’s good for you; and at the end of the day, I’ve just got a passion to run.” By the time Teeples was driving across Georgia thinking about running, he’d gotten to the point where he

had burned out on running ultraevents. “I was tired of doing the same old stuff and thought, ‘I’m going to do my own thing here. I’ll just run from Columbus to Savannah as fast as I can,’” says Teeples. “But then I thought, ‘What’s the point? Who cares?’ I wanted there to be a reason behind the madness.”

Teeples knew there was a nonprofit organization in Columbus called House of Heroes that provided home repairs and improvements to military and public safety veterans. Because he is in the building industry, pairing construction with running—his two great passions— just seemed like a natural fit. Teeples called his race Run For The Heroes, and in its first year, he ran all 260 miles by himself. Last year the race was open to other contestants, and this year, with the fundraising goal set at $75,000, Teeples tweaked the race. Now it not only includes a flat-out run across Georgia but also offers options for team relays and a stage race as well. Race registration for the individual run closes May 21; the cutoff date for the relay closes May 25; and the actual race is May 25-29.

INSIDER’S TIP: It typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete all 260 miles, and unless you’re planning on doing the stage race with set daily finishing points, you’ll likely be camping out, sleeping on the side of the road or planning on a hotel stay. “You just run as fast as you can, only taking as much sleep as what you have to,” says Teeples.

The race will start in Columbus and finish in Savannah’s Emmet Park.

To learn more about the race, visit runfortheheroes.com. a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

145

p l ay

p “We’re willing to teach anyone. We keep a spare set of powerbocks for people to learn on.”

Upward Bound when cars and bikes seem a bit boring, leave it up to a few savannah locals to find some new inventive locomotive means for navigating the streets of the south

146

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

powerbocking [ pou-er bok-ing]

Trekking and jumping that relies on two-and-a-half-feet tall spring loaded stilts and nerves of steel. written by Peter Zink photography by josh branstetter

Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. I sat on a park bench near Forsyth Cafe strapping two, 2.5-foot-long elastic springloaded stilts to my legs. My instructor for the day, “powerbocker” DJ Bothwell, checked my straps when I was done. “Too loose. You really want these things tight when you’re walking.” He cinched the Velcro tighter until there was no wiggle room for my legs to escape.

“So how’d you learn how to do this?”

“YouTube.”

“Really? So, no formal training or anything?

“Nope. Just YouTube. Now go ahead and stand up.”

On that reassuring note, I awkwardly worked my way off the bench and stood up straight with my newfound appendages. “Now just start marching in place,” Bothwell instructed as I gripped his shoulders and gingerly started stomping my feet. While disorienting at first, within 15 minutes I found myself walking on my own without any assistance. “Look at you. Ladies and gentlemen, he’s graduated,” fellow bocker Doug Wilson said. “Feels like learning to walk all over again, eh?”

Indeed it was, and almost as liberating as well. While the concept of walking on stilts has been around for centuries, powerbocking is fairly new and unknown in the United States. Named after the German inventor who patented the stilt in 2003, Alexander Bock, powerbocks give you around 18 inches of extra height and the ability to walk, run and jump up to 6 feet in the air. Bothwell’s group is part of only a hundred or so individuals in the entire United States that actively powerbock. “There was literally nobody else in my area that had even heard of this. I had to learn it all on my own from the Internet. I’d just practice in the kitchen.” Originally from Iowa, Bothwell started bocking in 2008 on his own, and then began to teach his girlfriend, Josie.

When Josie opted to attend SCAD in Savannah, Bothwell decided to follow her there. “Savannah offers so much more potential than where I was before. The incredible parks and squares offer tons of great places to practice and explore. I couldn’t turn it down.”

Since moving here, Bothwell actively recruits more members for his club, the XD Bockers. “I kept thinking, ‘Where can I get together with other people regularly to do this?’”

In just a short period of time, XD Bockers now stands at nearly a dozen active members capable of bocking on a regular basis. And they don’t have many issues recruiting either. Smartphones, flip cams and questions came fast and furious as the crew powered around Forsyth Park. “We’re willing to teach anyone. We keep a spare set of powerbocks for people to learn on,” said Bothwell.

In addition to random powerbocks in the park, don’t be surprised to run into them at art shows, festivals and other events throughout Savannah. People can check out the event calendar on their website for times and locations to learn. If you find yourself intrigued, their website also offers discounts on your very own set of powerstilts.

Bothwell hopes to make Savannah the Southeastern hub for bocking. “It’s gotten absolutely huge in the United Kingdom. In

fact, there are entire gyms dedicated to powerbocking over there.

I’d love to see us get to the same point here someday.” Currently there are two annual conferences for powerbocking in the United States: Capital Bocking USA in Washington, D.C., and the Stiltwerks Annual Bock Off (SABO) in Las Vegas. Both are young events that are still finding their footing, and a conference in Savannah could potentially be a future regional hub for the South. For now, Bothwell continues to build a following and spread awareness about the new sport.

For the record, I never came close to falling during my hourlong training session. And I’m the first to admit that I’m not the most coordinated individual. After the initial 10 minutes, the thought of falling rarely entered my head. The bocking felt natural. I found myself missing the stilts when I sat down by the fountain to remove them. Just as I finished removing the last one, a man on a unicycle whizzed by and stopped. “Can I play with those?” he asked. Bothwell’s face curled into a small, amused smile. “Sure. Got a pair right here.”

With that, it looks like bocking might be here to stay in Savannah.

For more information on powerbocking, check out the XD Bockers at xdbockers.com.

Child’s Play: Local student Jeff Soss doing a precision jump.

hardcore parkour [ hahrd-kohr Pahr-kohr]

Traversing of one’s surroundings using acrobatic and climbing techniques to get from one place to another regardless of the obstacles in the way. writ ten by David Gignilliat p h o t o g r a p h y b y j o h n f u lt o n p h o t o g r a p h y

Brad Boswell really needs to get to class.

If he hesitates, he’ll be late, and as an upperclassman at Savannah Christian Preparatory School, that type of offense likely has a consequence.

So, he starts moving. Well, sprinting actually. Except that a sprint only works well over short distances and if there’s nothing in your way. With a daily population of nearly 1,800 students at SCPS’s Chatham Parkway campus, he knows he’ll have to maneuver around fellow classmates—and objects—to get there on time.

As he’s running, he approaches a bench. Boswell, 16, leaps forward horizontally, launching his body headfirst over the wooden barrier and then somersaults cleanly onto the grass. More running. A picnic table, about waist-high, presents the next challenge.

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

147

p l ay

p

Boswell picks up speed, quickly plants his feet, jumps and places his hands on the table, using the stationary object to vault himself upward like a supercharged push-up. A false move and his feet might clip the front of the table. His arms lift off, giving his legs space to clear the obstacle. He lands a “kong vault” in stride, one foot at a time and continues toward class.

For fun, he tic-tacs off a brick wall, jumping feet first up the wall, and then pushing off in another direction. Moving quickly and precisely, he can only imagine the slack-jawed bewilderment of his fellow classmates. He approaches the building where his next class is held.

He resumes his sprint. He’s almost there. Dashing down the hallway, he hears the disapproving murmur of a few teachers.

No time for words. Don’t stop now, he thinks. Must. Get. To. Class.

Moments later, he’s there. On time. That was close. He straightens his tie, dusts off his dress shirt, mops his brow and collects himself.

He sits down at his desk, ready to learn.

Whether it was for expedience or playful diversion, Boswell’s impromptu between-class excursion demonstrates some of the core skills (precise jumps, vaults, rolls and efficient movements) he’s learned the last few years practicing parkour, an exciting (and relatively new) discipline that has exploded in popularity.“The whole thing to parkour is [that] you’re overcoming obstacles—mental obstacles, physical obstacles,” says Boswell, who also studies mixed martial arts at Savannah Taekwando. “After a while, you just get to the mind-set that you can get past anything in some way.”

What is Parkour?

The official definition of parkour is nearly as elusive as those who practice it. Is it a sport? A discipline? A form of exercise? A novel way of getting from point A to point B? Or all of the above?

Wikipedia defines parkour as “a utilitarian discipline based upon the successful, swift and energy-efficient traversing of one’s surrounding environment via the practical application of techniques, based

around the concept of self-preservation and the ability to help others.”

In other words, a little bit of everything.

“We don’t change our environment; we seek it, we respect it and we play with it,” says Mark Toorock, founder of American Parkour, the world’s leading parkour community, established in 2005 in Washington, D.C. “And we use it as a tool to train ourselves.”

The term parkour derives from the French parcours du combattant, a phrase applied to the military obstacle course training methods developed by French physical educator Georges Hebert. While others have claimed retroactive ownership, Frenchman David Belle is considered by many to be parkour’s modern-day founder and pioneer.

Hanging Out: Brad Boswell makes his way across a bridge on Factor’s Walk.

Parkour in Savannah The sport has officially made its way to Savannah, as Boswell and his friend Jeff Soss, now a freshman at Georgia Southern, found videos one day while surfing online and shared the new potential hobby with their buddy Kyle Tuskey. They watched scores of videos and started practicing precision jumps and vaults while at camp. “That was a week we’ll never forget,” recalls Tuskey, now a junior at Richmond Hill High School. “We were so sore halfway through just from all the new stuff that we were trying.”

Back at home, the group (Boswell, Tuskey, Soss and fellow Richmond Hill student Beau Baker) continued to practice, getting out to practice in Richmond Hill and throughout Savannah whenever they could.

Savannah’s historic downtown area, with its labyrinthine mix of buildings and unique objects in its streets, alleys, squares and parking structures, is among the group’s favorite go-to spots. There’s no defined field to the discipline, so each parkour journey begins a new adventure.

“You learn to analyze your surroundings. You really analyze your path. ‘How can I get over that? Or do I need to go around it?’” says Baker, who runs varsity track for Richmond Hill. “It strengthens your mind. I may be afraid of [something], but I’m still going to take it head-on.”

There is a “Parkour in Savannah” Facebook page, a scattering of message board chatter, and the occasional local video uploaded online, but in many ways it’s still in its infancy.

148

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Event Calendar compiled by sa r a ly nn mcca ll

entertainment. Tickets are $55, and proceeds will benefit America’s Second Harvest Food Bank, Kids Café and the Savannah Harbor Foundation. 1 Resort Drive, 912.201.2000, westinsavannah. com/winejazz

Monday, April 4 SOUTHERN CIRCUIT OF INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS: SCRAPPERS

March 24-April 9 The 22nd season of Georgia’s largest festival will be held in downtown Savannah with over 100 productions by a wide variety of internationally acclaimed artists. Tickets can be purchased at savannahmusicfestival.org.

Savannah Music Festival

Friday, April 1 EARLY BIRD’S PRESERVATION WALKING TOUR OF THE LAND MARK HISTORIC DISTRICT’S EAST SIDE Take an early morning walk

through one of the most historic neighborhoods in downtown Savannah most Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in April. $20. 7:309 a.m., Isaiah Davenport House Museum, 912.236.8097, davenporthousemuseum.org

Saturday, April 2 13th ANNUAL SCAD INTERNATIONAL FESTIVALThis food-filled

event is held every year on Broughton Street. Contact SCAD’s International Student Services for more information.

SAVANNAH WINE AND JAZZ FEST

The Savannah Harbor Foundation will host the second annual Savannah Wine and Jazz Fest from 3 to 7 p.m. at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. There will be wine tastings and live jazz

150

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

The Lucas Theatre hosts the Southern Circuit of Independent Filmmakers, encouraging thoughts and discussions among both filmmakers and viewers. Curtain times to be determined. Tickets are $8. lucastheatre.com THE ODD LOT IMPROV COMEDY

TROUPE Savannah’s premiere comedy troupe usually performs every Monday with improvisation and original comedy skits worked in. 8 to 10 p.m. Muse Arts Warehouse, 703 Louisville Rd., oddlot. weebly.com

Earth Day, April 23 The largest Earth Day educational festival in Georgia will kick off in Savannah in beautiful Forsyth Park. This year’s theme is “Conserve, Recycle, Grow” and is designed to promote a more environmentally conscious Savannah. Festivities will begin at 8 a.m. with three hours of recycling followed by workshops and live entertainment. WHEN: Saturday, April 23 MORE INFO: 912.651.2221, earthdaysavannah.org

Wednesday & Thursday, April 6 and 7

p.m., but the gates will open at 5 p.m. for live music, kids activities and a special on-field ceremony.

Tickets are $7 (general admission), $8 (reserved) and $10 ( box).

912.351.9150, sandgnats.com

SHOW: MAMMA MIA!Presented by

Friday, April 15

the Johnny Mercer Theatre. Tickets are $62, $47 and $37. 7:30 p.m., 912.651.6557, savannahcivic.com

Saturday, April 9 RICKEY SMILEY & FRIENDS Savan-

nah’s No. 1 morning show host will be at the Johnny Mercer Theatre for a new show with entertainment by his new band Common Folk. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $38 (orchestra, mezzanine and balcony) or $45 (pitt & orchestra). 912.651.6556, savannahcivic.com

Friday, April 15 SAND GNATS OPENING NIGHT

Don’t miss the Savannah Sand Gnats opening night at Grayson Stadium. Game time is set for 7:05

Presented by the Johnny Mercer Theatre. Tickets are $52, $42 and $32. 8 p.m.

912.651.6556, savannahcivic.com

SHOW: GREASE

Friday & Saturday, April 15 and 16 SAVANNAH GARDEN EXPO The 11th Annual Savannah Garden Exposition will be held at the Trustees’ Garden, 10 E. Broad St. This year’s theme, “History Blooms in Savannah,” will focus on the meaning behind Savannah’s local colors. A preview party and silent auction will be held on Thursday, April 14. savannahgardenexpo.com

Saturday, April 16 TYBEE WINE FESTIVAL

The 2011

Tybee Wine Festival will be held on the grounds of the Tybee Lighthouse from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $50. 912.323.7727, tybeewinefestival.com

Sunday, April 17 CONCERT: TIM MCGRAW WITH SPECIAL GUESTS LUKE BRYAN AND

THE BAND PERRY Presented by the Martin Luther King Jr. Arena.

7 p.m. Tickets are $75.

912.651.6556, savannahcivic.com

Monday-Sunday, April 18-24 LIBERTY MUTUAL LEGENDS OF

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa will host the annual PGA Tour Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf Tournament. 1 Resort Drive. 912.201.2000, westinsavannah.com/golf

GOLF

Friday, April 22 SCAD CINEMA CIRCLE: DAYS OF

HEAVEN Days of Heaven, rated PG, is a stunning drama set before

World War I. Free with SCAD ID; $6 for seniors, military and students; $8 for general public.

Trustees Theater, 216 E. Broughton St. 7 p.m. Visit the Savannah Box Office online at tickets.scadboxoffice.com.

Friday-Sunday, April 22-24 SAVANNAH FINE ARTS AT THE

RIVER This

NOG’s Garden Tour, April 29 NOG’S April walking Garden Tour - Enjoy the outdoors in Savannah during the weekend of April 29 and 30 and take in the NOG’S private walking garden tour, a favorite pastime of local Savannahians and tourists alike. The tour features eight private gardens plus The Owens-Thomas House English inspired par-terre garden. Cost: $45 per person or $40 per person with 10 or more. WHEN: Friday April 29,10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

MORE INFO: gcofsavnogstour.org, 912.961.4805

152

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

high-end show will include arts, crafts, performances, wine and beverages. 10 a.m., River Street Inn, 124 E. Bay St., savannahnow.com

Friday, April 29 Port Wentworth Chamber of

is presenting the 4th Annual Savannah River Spring Classic bass fishing tournament.

Anglers compete for cash prizes and door prizes. Field is limited to 75 (2 angler) teams and registra-

Commerce

tion opens goes through Friday, April 29th. More details available on Facebook.

Thursdays and Fridays in May TEA IN THE GARDEN OF THE DAVENPORT HOUSE Learn and experi-

ence early 19th-century tea traditions in the beautiful courtyard garden. $18. 4:30 or 5:30 p.m., Isaiah Davenport House Museum, 324 East State Street, 912.236.8097, davenporthousemuseum.com

Sunday, May 1 Hilton Head Savannah Eques-

trian Expo Entering its 7th year,

the HHSEE is a fun and relaxing afternoon of all things equestrian including dressage, barrel racing, show jumping, carriage driving and a polo match. Please join the Savannah Philharmonic in their VIP tent on the field for

{ ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

153

music, food and drinks. $35.00.

Gates open at 11:00 a.m. with exhibitions starting at 12:30 p.m.

912.232.6002, info@savannahphilharmonic.org

May 4-25 CURATOR’S TOUR AND HIGHLIGHTS OF THE COLLECTION

Every Wednesday in May at 4:30 p.m., the Isaiah Davenport House Museum’s curator will lead guests on a special tour of the house and examine highlights of the collection and collection storage, which is usually not permitted for visitors. The tour is limited to 10 people, and refreshments will follow in the garden. 324 East State Street, 912.236.8097, davenporthousemuseum.com

Saturday, May 7 35th ANNUAL SAVANNAH SCOT-

The Savannah Scottish games will be held on the TISH GAMES

154

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

campus of the historic Bethesda Home for Boys with the gates opening at 9 a.m. Events will include piping competitions, bagpipe bands, Highland dancing competitions, Scottish heavy athletics and much more. Tickets are $10 (advance) or $12 (gate) for adults and $5 for children. savannahscottishgames.com

Sunday through Friday, May 8-13 SAVANNAH DERBY DEVILS 2011

Roller Girl Boot Camp offers refresher courses in roller skating and roller derby for beginning and advanced female skaters. 18 and older. $20-30.

912.220.9744, savannahderby.com

ROLLER GIRL BOOT CAMP

Friday, May 20 TYBEE ISLAND BEACH BUM PA-

Prepare to get soaked. This isn’t your usual floats-and-candy parade. Parade route will be on

RADE

Butler Avenue. 912.786.5444, tybeevisit.com

Saturday, May 21 SCAD 2011 FASHION SHOW In one of the top student fashion shows in the country, undergraduate and graduate students showcase their work that has been selected by a jury process. Ticket prices and availability announced closer to the event. Trustees Theater, 216 E. Broughton St.

will include special guest Ronald McDonald. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Ronald McDonald House Charities, 4710 Waters Avenue, firstgiving.com/rmhccoastal, 912350-7641

Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22 EVP PRO BEACH VOLLEYBALL

Sunday, May 22

The EVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour will make a stop on Tybee Island with the top athletes and free agents. 773.387.1198, evptour.com

Ride for Ronald Motorcycle

Saturday, May 28

You don’t have to ride a motorcycle to be a part of this event! An after-party and awards ceremony will be held at the Ronald McDonald House at 12:00 p.m. and the public is welcome. Live music, tours of the Ronald McDonald House and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®, door prizes and more are part of the festivities that Poker Run

TOUR

KATHY GRIFFIN Kathy Griffin will

be at the Johnny Mercer Theatre at 8 p.m. Tickets are $34.50 (balcony), $49.50 (orchestra, mezzanine and balcony) and $69.50 (pit and orchestra seating).

912.651.6556, savannahcivic.com

{ ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE }

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

155

p l ay

p

Client Directory F o r a c o m p l e t e l i s t i n g o f t h e c i ty ’ s g r e ate s t p l ac e s t o e at, p l ay, s tay & s h o p, g o t o s o u t h m ag a z i n e . c o m /g u i d e s .

Apparel

Art

Cherry Picked Consignments....................83 Fab’rik..............................................................128 Gaucho...........................................................123 Globe Shoe Company..................................17 J. Paige.............................................................83 J. Parker Ltd.................................................. 29

Ray Ellis Gallery..........................................143 The Art Buzz................................................143

Savannah Shoe Co.............................126 Trunk 13..............................................124

156

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

Banking/Finance Dewitt Mortgage.........................................156 Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union 157 Hancock Askew............................................61 The Murphy Group.....................................50

Bar/Restaurant

Electronics

Bar Food.......................................................109 Belford’s........................................................ 108 Boar’s Head Grill and Tavern..................112 Brasserie 529................................................110 Cafe Gelatohhh!...........................................111 Cilantro’s.........................................................135 Circa 1875..................................................... 107 Goose Feathers............................................133 Hooters of Savannah..................................151 K Bella Gourmet Carry Out.................... 133 Love’s Seafood.............................................139 Michael’s Cafe..............................................133 Moon River Brewing Co............................110 Savannah Menu...........................................154 Shane’s Rib Shack.......................................133 Swank Bistro................................................112 Temperance..................................................135 The Crab Shack............................................135

Cellular Sales...................................................3

Beauty/Spa/Salon Genesis Medical Spa.....................................15 Illusions...........................................................83 Poseidon Spa................................................122 Spa Bleu.........................................................117

Design/Printing/Imaging Image is Everything.................................... 43

Entertainment Art to Change the World..........................155 Jewels & Jeans.............................................155 Lucas Theatre.................................................120 Mangled Courtesan Fashion Show.........155 Savannah Sand Gnats................................153 Savannah Slow Ride...................................115 Savannah Record Fair................................155 Savannah Water Resources.......................23

Event Planning/Venues Savor Savannah..................................135 Tybee Island Chapel............................2

Furniture/Homewares Coastal Georgia Woodworks............85 DC2.......................................................125 Emporium at Habersham..............127 Sherry’s Designer Furniture...........85

Non-profit/Charity American Red Cross..................................159

Home Improvement

Hotel/Lodging Avia...............................................................105 Bohemian.....................................................103 Palmetto Bluff................................................31 River’s End Campground/RV Park........102 Savannah Oaks/Bellaire Woods Campground................................................106 The Mansion on Forsyth Park.................101 Villa de Suenos............................................104

Jewelers Levy Jewelers............................... Back Cover

Production/Photography Christine Hall.....................................57

Medical/Dental Bradford A. Durham, DMD, PC........8

Specialty Sports............................................121

Museums

City Market Merchants................................ 9 Kathy Smith...........................................98 Sylvester & Co........................................73 One Fish Two Fish...............................128 Polka Dots.................................................83

The Telfair Museum.................................. 143 The Telfair Museum....................................60

Pets Diva Dogs Pet Grooming.............................85

Real Estate CE Hall Construction..................................11 Hostetter Schnieder Realty.........................99 Judge Realty.................................................. 25 Mike Farmer Realty.....................................65

Savannah Realty..................................59 Waterways Township........................10

Recreation Custom Fit Center.....................................152 North Island Surk and Kayak.................130 Port Wentworth Tourism/Chamber of Commerce...............................................114 Savannah Canoe and Kayak....................153 Sea Kayak Georgia......................................131

Retail

Services ADS Security................................................. 38 American Plumbing Service.......................81 John Davis Florist........................................161 Saber Security................................................37 Savannah Distribution...............................149 Trident Sustainability..................................36

Automotive Grainger Honda..........................................163 Savannah Harley-Davidson, Inc...............13 Signature Car Service................................122 Southern Motors Honda.............................4-5 Wards Auto Painting & Bodyworks.......6-7

Tours

p p l ay

Home Resource Outlet........................81 One-Stop Remodeling........................27 Savannah Kitchen and Bath...............9 Servpro...........................................................51 The Grout Medic.................................81 Zipperer Land Company...................71

Kevin C. Dickinson Dentistry..........45 Live Well MD.......................................19 Medical Infusion Technologies......39 Spine and Sport......................................21

Adventures in Savannah..........................120 Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure Tours.........................................119 Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours.................130 Dolphin Magic Tour...................................118 Old Savannah Tours......................................116 Savannah Movie Tours...............................113 Savannah Rambles......................................153

Advertise with

South magazine

Call 912.236.5501 or email sales@thesouthmag.com

a pr il | m ay 11

southmaga zine.com

157

scenes of the south see more photos at southmagazine.com

apr | may 2011

photogr aphs by john alexander

Telfair Ball A N i gh t at t h e T e l fa i r wa s h e l d S at u r day, F e b rua ry 2 6, b e g i n n i n g w i t h coc k ta i l s at 6 p. m . fo l l ow e d by a s i l e n t au c t i o n i n t h e J e p s o n C e n t e r . A d e l e c ta b l e d i n n e r , pr e pa r e d by S ava n na h ’ s T r i s h McL e o d, wa s l at e r s e rv e d i n t h e e l e ga n t T e l fa i r Ac a d e m y.

3.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

158

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

9.

scenes of the south ➼

see more photos at southmagazine.com

➼

apr | may 2011

photogr aphs by alec jankowski & john alexander

SCAD Scholarship Gala Th e 1 2 t h a n n ua l S C AD Scho l a r s h i p G a l a wa s a n i gh t f u l l of ho r s d ’ o e u v r e s , coc k ta i l s , l i v e m u s i c a n d a s i l e n t au c t i o n b e n e f i t t i n g t h e S C AD s cho l a r s h i p e n d ow m e n t. Th e e v e n t, wh i ch s howc a s e d o r i g i na l S C AD a r t wo r k , p ho t og r a p h y, j e w e l r y a n d s c u l p t u r e s i n t h e s i l e n t au c t i o n , t oo k p l ac e o n F e b r ua r y 5 , at t h e R i v e r C lu b .

1.

2.

3.

2.

6.

4.

5.

6.

Georgia Trustees’ Gala Th e G e o r g i a H i s t o r i c a l Soc i e t y ho s t e d t h e 2 01 1 G e o r g i a T r u s t e e s ’ G a l a o n S at u r day, F e b r ua r y 1 2 , wh e r e fo r m e r U G A foo t b a l l coach V i n c e Doo l e y a n d S e nat o r S a m N u n n w e r e i n d u c t e d a s t h e s tat e ’ s n e w e s t t r u s t e e s . Th e b l ac k-t i e a ffa i r , h e l d at t h e H yat t R e g e n c y S ava n na h , f e at u r e d a s e at e d d i n n e r a n d l i v e e n t e r ta i n m e n t.

2.

1.

3.

4.

2.

6.

1.

160

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

5.

6.

mouth of the south

apr | may 2011

er v e N u o Y s g n Ten Thi Knew About Savannah H i s t o r y b u f f a n d t o u r g u i d e e x t r ao r d i n a i r e S ava n n a h Da n s h a r e s a f e w b i t s o f t r i v i a a b o u t t h e H o s t e s s C i ty photography by tim johnson

1 2 3 4

Savannah was the capital of Georgia four different times (the last time was in the late 1700s).

The downtown historic district is actually built on

different cemeteries.

three

Savannah used to be spelled Savana after the river, which was named after a band of Indians around Augusta.

In 1886, between the months of August and November, Savannah felt earthquake trembles that caused slight damage to some buildings.

5

The cobblestones on River Street are actually ballasts left here by numerous different ships. Much of the wrought iron that accents old buildings around town is also made of ballasts that were melted down.

6 7

The arches on Abercorn by City Hall used to hold slaves.

8 9 10

Georgia started out as a silk seal had a silk plant on it.

colony. The first colonial

Spanish moss is actually in the same family (bromeliad) as pineapples.

Savannah is a sub-tropical environment and can sustain bananas and citrus fruits.

Savannah is prone got six inches.

to snow. In 1988 the city

Savannah Dan After years in uniform tracking down Southern bad boys and drug dealers, the city’s most notorious tour guide, Savannah Dan, says two years ago divine intervention thumped him in the back of the head.

Within 30 days he was open for business, and six months later was listed on Trip Advisor as the number one public walking tour in the city. Likening his tours to historical stand up, locals and visitors alike can get a kick out of his routine. To hear history like it’s never been told before, book a tour at savannahdan.com.

162

southmaga zine.com

a pr il | m ay 11

want to see more?

2011 A P R | M AY ISSUE 32

APR -MAY

SOU THM

5 USA $4.9

AGA ZINE

.COM

Subscribe to our virtual library for only $4.95 a year!

Be the first to see the new issues before they hit newsstands with our virtual library. On your desk or on the go, South’s virtual library is available for you online and on you mobile. Flip through your favorite South issues with crystal clear images, share articles with your friends, view videos and click through to websites in advertisements.

SUBSCRIBE NOW!