Statesboro Magazine - March/April 2024

The experience was nothing short of exceptional and life changing. I am proud to be an OTC graduate.

TONY HERNANDEZ ConstructionManagement TechnologyGraduate

It’s time to Take Control.

Whether you are looking for a new career, a promotion, or stability in an uncertain world – Ogeechee Technical College has affordable and flexible career-based training to set you on a new path.

Take Control of your career, your finances, your education, and your future at OTC.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY STATESBORO MAGAZINE!

OR AS OUR POPULAR FOOD COLUMNIST LAZAR

Oglesby says - We have reached our Silver Jubilee! 25 years of showcasing the most fabulous people, places and events that make up the fabric of the community we all love so dearly. But it’s not just our birthday that makes this issue of Statesboro Magazine so exciting! It’s also time for our annual Fabulist reveal!

Inside this issue you will find the Most Fabulous businesses, services, restaurants, and individuals that our readers have chosen by first nominating, then voting on the top three in each of 168 categories! We received over 70,000 online votes throughout the contest period in January. What a list it is! We have included every winner and every finalist in the layout so that all of the Most Fabulous ones are celebrated.

We’ve given special attention to stories about our Most Fabulous Man Roosevelt Cone, Jr., our Most Fabulous Woman Ginny Lee Hendley, our Most Fabulous Entrepreneur Sharmequa Franklin, our Most Fabulous Boss Megan Clark, our Most Fabulous Coach Marci Cochran. These people know what it means to take things to the next level. From starting a foundation, to coaching a 3x championship team, to creating a positive and fulfilling business environment, to serving on city council, to creating one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry – our Most Fabulous are really all that!

We celebrate our birthday by bringing our own card – a two-page spread of every cover we’ve ever had. Are you on one of them?

Then we continue our spring showcase of the most beautiful local weddings in our Weddings by Statesboro Magazine special section. This complete guide for the Statesboro bride showcases the very best wedding vendors and venues in our area. You’ll also find exposés on the weddings of two local brides: Mikay Anslee Sands’ marriage to William Davis Wiggins, and Anna Faith Freeman’s marriage to Winfield John Lee, III. From getting dressed for the wedding to leaving for the honeymoon and all the romantic details in between, we hope you’ll find the weddings of these young couples to be as lovely and distinctive as we did.

In addition to all this we’re celebrating you! You are holding in your hands the largest Statesboro Magazine to ever be printed. A superior milestone thanks to our Director of Sales & Marketing Mindy Boyette. Thanks, Mindy for making this one the Most Fabulous Statesboro Magazine ever!

How Fabulous is that? Have fun with this one!

ESTABLISHED MARCH 1, 2000

EDITOR

Jenny Starling Foss

PUBLISHER

Joe McGlamery

SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Melanie Schmermund

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Mindy Boyette

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Frank Fortune, Jeremy Wilburn, & Mark Williams Studio Statesboro Magazine is proudly produced by:

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, PLEASE E-MAIL: mboyette@StatesboroMagazine.com

FOR EDITORIAL QUESTIONS, PLEASE E-MAIL: editor@StatesboroMagazine.com

MAILING ADDRESS:

P. O. BOX 1084 Statesboro, GA 30459 p: 912.489.2181

PHYSICAL ADDRESS:

One Herald Square, Statesboro, GA 30458 f: 912.489.8613

ABOUT THE COVER

Just look at the 2024 Most Fabulous Woman & Man of Statesboro, Ginny Lee Hendley & Roosevelt Cone, Jr., celebrating with us this year’s group of the Most Fabulous people, places and events in Statesboro! They’re also toasting the 25th Anniversary of Statesboro Magazine! AND, the two most beautiful weddings we’ve ever seen in Weddings by Statesboro Magazine. Captured giving a BIG toast by the magazine’s favorite award-winning photographer, Frank Fortune. #TheFortuneImage.

RIC MANDES

Ric Mandes, a popular essayist, retired after 27 years as Director of Public Relations and Development for Georgia Southern. His memories about growing up and living in South Georgia inspire his writings. He’s a published author and former newspaper columnist for the AJC.

VIRGINIA ANNE FRANKLIN WATERS

Virginia Anne Franklin Waters is a fourth generation Bulloch Countian and loves all things about her hometown of Statesboro. She graduated from UGA and is a CPA. She spent her career in the hospitality industry. Her passions include entertaining friends at home and working in her gardens. Virginia Anne enjoys everything Gardening—planting seeds, arranging flowers, using raised beds, protecting native plants, propagating camellias and even pulling weeds. She has been a member of the Sprig-N-Dig Federated Garden Club since 1985. Virginia Anne has served on numerous philanthropic boards in our community and is currently the Executive Director of the Bulloch County Historical Society.

REV. JOHN WATERS

Since 2005, John Waters has been the lead pastor of First Baptist Church Statesboro. Raised in a military family, he spent his childhood years in Tokyo, Japan, and Selma, Alabama. He earned a master’s degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. As a teenager, he once worked a weekend as a circus clown but now enjoys collecting fountain pens, reading across many genres, and visiting the great cathedrals of the world. His wife, Cynthia, is a retired elementary school teacher, and they have two married adult daughters and five grandchildren.

LAZAR BROWN OGLESBY

Lazar Brown Oglesby is the owner of Honey Catering and Dolan’s BBQ both located in Statesboro. Lazar attended Ogeechee Technical College where she earned a Culinary Arts degree. In 2012 Lazar followed a lifelong dream and opened Honey Catering and Café. She enjoys cooking Southern food with an adventurous twist! Lazar is known for her famous cheesecakes of which she has over 100 flavors. Lazar recently started the Honey Blog to share her recipes and stories. Visit her at Dolan’s & Honey’s new location on South Main Street.

MELANIE SCHMERMUND

Melanie is Statesboro Magazine’s Senior Creative Director. Owner of Schmermund Design Studio, LLC, she is an experienced freelance graphic designer specializing in editorial design & branding. She is also a frequent contributing designer to Savannah Magazine. She holds a degree in Art from Auburn University and loves traveling & exploring the world, always looking for new places to visit. Her knowledge & passion are invaluable assets ensuring that each project she works on is of the highest quality.

FRANK FORTUNE

Frank is the national award winning freelance photographer who holds the distinction of shooting 25 years’ worth of covers for Statesboro Magazine. He retired from Georgia Southern after having been responsible for capturing the University’s history on film and video for 30 years. Throughout his career Frank’s enjoyed all aspects of photography, including sports, still-life, landscape, and architecture. He and his wife, Mandy, are the proud parents of Jack and Cate.

Ever since we opened our doors we have approached life (and death) differently. While some just see the end of a loved one’s life as a time for grief and mourning, we prefer to think of it as a time for reflection, appreciation and even celebration. This is evident in everything we do, from the way we conduct our services to the amenities we choose to offer.

Burial Preparing

Whether you are planning for yourself or a loved one, the funeral service is one of the most important elements of a person’s final arrangements. With the opportunity for great personalization, the funeral service can truly reflect the uniqueness of the life it honors.

Burial Plans

One of the first decisions many make is whether they prefer traditional burial or cremation. This decision will influence other important considerations, such as elements of the funeral service and type of final resting place needed.

Funeral Service Options

A formal or informal ceremony or ritual prior to burial, a funeral service often provides a sense of closure for family and friends. Although your faith or culture may dictate some elements of the funeral service, the casket or urn is usually present, and you may choose for the casket to be open or closed.

Visitation or Viewing

Typically held the evening before, or immediately prior to the funeral service, the visitation – also known as the viewing – provides a way for friends and acquaintances to pay their respects and offer condolences to your family.

Graveside Service

As its name implies, a graveside service may be held at the grave site just prior to burial of a casket or urn, and usually consists of final remarks, prayers or memories., A graveside service may occur before, after, or in place of a traditional service.

Funeral or Memorial Service

When planning your own funeral service in advance, think about the way you would like to be remembered. You may prefer a traditional funeral aligned with certain religious or ethnic customs. Or, a celebration focusing on great memories made with family and friends. Maybe you would like a combination of both. You can have one service or several to honor your life. Regardless of the service or services you choose to include in your funeral plan, you can personalize them in almost any way imaginable.

Burial

Most people are familiar with the concept of burial or interment, but may not be aware of the variety of options that are available. Many cemeteries offer:

• Ground burial: burial of the casket below ground

• Mausoleum: a large building that provides above-burial spaces, known as crypts, for entombment

• Private Family Mausoleum: a small structure that provides above-ground entombment of on average two to twelve family members

• Private Family Estate: a small section of a cemetery, usually bordered by gates, shrubbery or other dividers, that allow for ground burial of several members of the same family

Cremation

Many people overlook the importance of a cemetery property for those who choose cremation, but permanent placement of the ashes or “cremated remains” is an important part of the final arrangements. Just consider:

• A permanent site gives loved ones a physical place for visitation and reflection

• The ceremony accompanying the placement of an urn in a cremation niche or a cremation garden provides family and friends with closure after their loss

• When cremated remains of a loved one are kept with relatives, they can easily become misplaced or discarded through the years. A permanent placement provides future generations a location to visit

Cemetery Placement Options for Cremated Remains

Columbarium: located within a mausoleum or chapel constructed of numerous niches designed to hold urns.

Bulloch County’s only crematory, located at the funeral home Cremation Garden: a dedicated section of a cemetery designed for the burial, scattering or other permanent placement of cremated remains.

Memorial Benches: benches that either simply memorialize a loved one scattered or buried in a cremation garden, or actually contain the remains within.

912.764.4626

FEATURES

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FRANK FORTUNE

LOCAL REALTOR

MAKING HER MARK WORLD-WIDE

PATRICIA (PAT HIRSCH) NAMED TO ERA HALL OF FAME

AT ERA REAL ESTATE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN NASHVILLE, TN FEBRUARY 20-23, 2024.

ERA Corporate acknowledges leaders for steadfast dedication to Leadership, Growth, service to their communities, production, and number of years in Business.

Alex Vidal, President of ERA Real Estate, said “Pat is a passionate leader and real estate powerhouse with over three decades of service to the industry. She embraces ERA products and services and represents ERA on a daily basis.”

“I am very honored to receive this prestigious recognition “Having the support of ERA Real Estate throughout my career has been invaluable. I am blessed to work in a profession I love, serve my community, and make a difference. Thank you to all my clients, customers, friends, and family for your support as well” Hirsch said.

Pat is the Broker/ Owner of ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team and serves the Statesboro Board of Realtors as President Elect this year. She was awarded the Dean Day Smith award in 2015, Named as one of the Most Influential Women and Business Owners, Accredited Buyer’s Hall of Fame , ERA’s Fifty to Follow, Featured in Top Agent magazine, Named as Top All Around Selling Broker, ERA 1st in Service, Commitment to Excellence and ERA Presidents Circle along with numerous other awards. Real

FRIDAYS –TUESDAYS @ 10:00 P.M.

STATESBORO MAIN STREET

MARKET2GO

Order the season’s freshest local fruits, vegetables and homemade baked goods, preserves, jams, jellies, candies and relishes. You’ll also find locally sourced meat, seafood, spices, dairy and eggs. Home and garden items, honey and locally grown flower bouquets.

Shop online Friday – Tuesday at 10:00 p.m. @ https://statesboromarket2go.locallygrown. net/. Pick-up on Thursday afternoons at the Statesboro Visitors Center, 222 South Main Street or in Sylvania at the Victory Garden General Store, 124 West Telephone Street.

MARCH 8

ILUMINATE

7:30 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. | $30/PER PERSON GSU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

847 PLANT DRIVE

iLuminate has been a household name since we were called “The BEST NEW ACT in America!” during our run on America’s Got Talent in 2011. Maybe you saw us on TV or heard about us through one of our international appearances or saw our Live show in the heart of New York City. No matter how you found us, we’re just glad you did! iLuminate is a company based on the fusion of technology and dance. This distinct intermix will reawaken your senses and imagination! We are a diverse team of experts and together we create a visual experience unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Audiences will see dancers in electrified glow-in-the-dark suits performing dynamic routines and illusions on a darkened stage. It’s a show that’s completely unique to our brand and incomparable to any other dance performance. https://academics. georgiasouthern.edu/pac/.

MARCH 9-10

GRACE: PERFORMANCE OF PRAISE COTTON ROSE SCHOOL OF DANCE

MARCH 7

25TH ANNIVERSARY & FABULIST PARTY STATESBORO MAGAZINE CELEBRATES!

5:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.

FREE FUN BUSINESS EVENT!

JACK HILL BUILDING ATRIUM

OGEECHEE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Join Statesboro Magazine as we celebrate 25 years of showcasing the Most Fabulous people, places and events in the area. We also reveal the 2024 Fabulist Cover & Weddings by Statesboro Magazine. Enjoy plenty of food prepared by award winning chef Lazar Brown Oglesby & Honey Catering, Rolling Monkey ice cream treats by Megan & Garrett Clark, a 25th Anniversary Cake, champagne toasts, and Gourmet Coffee by David Hoyle of Cool Beanz. RSVP to sales@ statesboromagazine.com. Here’s to another 25 years!

7:00 P.M. – MARCH 9 | 3:00 P.M. – MARCH 10 $20/PER PERSON | $18/MEMBERS/ MILITARY/FIRST RESPONDERS/CITY & COUNTY EMPLOYEES | $16/STUDENTS EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS Praise dance (liturgical dance) has always been an important component of the dance experience for Rebekah Harville Carlisle, the director of the Cotton Rose School of Dance at the Averitt Center for the Arts. On the wall of her 5 North Main Studio are two excerpts from the Holy Bible. One states, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news” (Romans 10:15). The other is more direct, “Let them praise His name with dance” (Psalms 149:3). That’s the concept behind Grace…A Performance of Praise. From the youngest ballerinas to the most accomplished young adults, these dancers will use simple elegance and refinement of movement to worship through bodily expression. Tickets are available at www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

MARCH 15

WHO HIJACKED MY FAIRY TALE STARRING KELLY SWANSON

7:30 P.M. | $20/PER PERSON

GSU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

847 PLANT DRIVE

Hanging on to humor when life doesn’t go the way you planned. Join Kelly Swanson - awardwinning storyteller, comedian, motivational speaker, author of Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale - as she takes you on a twisted journey to a happier ever after. You’ll laugh yourself silly. From muffin tops to age spots to “the girls” gone wild, no topic is off limits as Kelly laughs about being a woman in today’s world. But underneath the humor is a lot of heart and a powerful message about embracing what makes you unique. You walk out of the show feeling refreshed and empowered, with a message that will last much longer than the laughs. Grab your friends and join us for a colossal GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT. You’ll be glad you did. Because it’s all fun and games ’til the hair gets messed up. And it’s never too late to write a new ending to your fairy tale. https:// academics.georgiasouthern.edu/pac/.

MARCH 15

HARRY O’DONOGHUE

IRISH FOLK SINGER WITH SPECIAL GUEST MICAH BONN

7:30 P.M. | $25/PERSON $22.50/MEMBERS/MILITARY/FIRST RESPONDERS/CITY & COUNTY

EMPLOYEES | STUDENTS – NO DISCOUNT

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

In performance with acoustic guitar, bodhran (Irish skin drum) and melodic voice, Harry’s

Grace Performace

songs weave a story of Ireland, past and present. His comfortable easy-going style and charm have become his trademark, as have his quick wit and natural ability to draw an audience into his show. The result is a wonderfully enjoyable and memorable experience. At home in Savannah, Georgia, Harry is creator, co-producer and host of the long running Green Island Radio Show on Georgia Public Broadcasting. The show has been on air since 1992. It streams live each week on radio and social media and remains very popular with the listening audience. Harry was voted Best Acoustic Folk Artist in Savannah for four consecutive years and he sits on the Advisory Board of the Centre for Irish Studies at Georgia Southern University. Thus far he has recorded more than sixteen albums, many of which have received stellar reviews by music journalists. Tickets are available at www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

MARCH 28

HARRIETT TUBMAN & THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD BOOKS & LYRICS BY DOUGLAS JONES, MUSIC BY RON

BARNETT

10:30 A.M. | $5/PER PERSON

GSU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | 847 PLANT DRIVE

Co-produced by the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, this stirring drama with music is a classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of other people from the bonds of slavery. As Harriet and her friend, Sarah Bradford, narrate her adventurous life, we share in the joys, sorrows, and challenges faced by this brave woman who changed the world through her courage. This accurate and deeply moving musical history lesson is at turns inspiring, heart-warming, and comical, full of the good humor, determination, and the charity of its subject. Your students will find a new appreciation for Harriet Tubman and a deeper understanding of her times. https://academics.georgiasouthern.edu/pac/.

MARCH 31

EASTER SUNDAY

Harry O’Donoghue

APRIL 4 – 7

NUNSENSE

THEY MAKE A HABIT OF HAVING FUN!

7:30 P.M. – APRIL 4 – 6 | 3:00 P.M. – APRIL 7

$17/MEMBERS | $14.50/MILITARY/ FIRST RESPONDERS/CITY & COUNTY EMPLOYEES | $12/STUDENTS

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS Nunsense begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium, which is currently set up for the eighth-grade production of “Grease.” Here we meet Reverend Mother Regina, a

former circus performer; Sister Mary Hubert, the Mistress of Novices; a streetwise nun from Brooklyn named Sister Robert Anne; Sister Mary Leo, a novice who is a wannabe ballerina; and the delightfully wacky Sister Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head. Featuring star turns, tap and ballet dancing, an audience quiz, and comic surprises, this show has become an international phenomenon. With more than 5,000 productions worldwide, it has been translated into 21 languages. www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org

APRIL 5

F1RST FRIDAY – DOWNTOWN ARTS

5:30 P.M. – 8:30 P.M. | FREE FUN FAMILY EVENT! | DOWNTOWN STATESBORO

Join in the fun at April’s F1rst Friday event while you enjoy visual arts, music and shopping! Bouncy Houses and activities for kids. Enjoy browsing plenty of Arts & Crafts, jewelry and local products vendors. Food and Beverage vendors will be offering local treats & beverages. Fun begins on the Courthouse lawn.

APRIL 11

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE!

10:30 A.M. & 7:30 P.M.

$5/PER PERSON @ 10:30 A.M.

$25/PER PERSON @ 7:30 P.M.

GSU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

847 PLANT DRIVE

ROARSOME FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! Looking for fun days out with the kids? Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for the whole family!

Discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child's favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mindexpanding Jurassic adventure, live on stage. https://academics.georgiasouthern.edu/pac/

APRIL 13

MOZART’S THE MAGIC FLUTE –KIDS’ VERSION

PRESENTED BY THE GSU OPERA

DEPARTMENT | 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. FREE FUN FAMILY EVENT!

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Georgia Southern Opera Theatre and Statesboro Youth Chorale present a 45-minute children's version of Mozart's classic, "The Magic Flute". A tale of the power of music and true love, this show is fun with timeless tunes and universal themes. Appropriate for all ages.

www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

APRIL 19 – 20

MOZART’S THE MAGIC FLUTE

PRESENTED BY THE GSU OPERA

DEPARTMENT | 7:30 P.M. | FREE FUN

FAMILY EVENT! | EMMA KELLY THEATER AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

One of the greatest operas ever written, Mozart’s timeless classic concerns the search for truth and reason, love and enlightenment. It follows the adventures of Prince Tamino and the bird-catcher Papageno on their quest to rescue Pamina. To assist their mission, they are given musical instruments enhanced with magical powers, which they deploy to conquer the trials and tribulations placed in their path towards a deeper understanding of true love and happiness.

www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

Send us your events! email your event, with one image, to editor@ statesboromagazine.com for possible inclusion in next month's calendar.

COURTESY AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

COURTESY AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Mozart's the Magic Flute

Visionary City Awards luncheon on January 28th held during the annual GMA Cities United Summit in Atlanta, Georgia.

L-R: Jonathan McCollar (Mayor), Dr. LaSara Mitchell (Village Builders), Dr. Kristina Patterson (Statesboro Youth Commission), Tangie Johnson (Statesboro Youth Commission), Phil Boyum (City Councilmember), Lakesha Hill (Statesboro Youth Commission), Shari Barr (City Councilmember), Larry Hanson (GMA).

CITY OF STATESBORO HONORED WITH 2024 VISIONARY CITY AWARD

The City of Statesboro is proud to announce its achievement of the 2024 Visionary City Award, bestowed by the Georgia Municipal Association and Georgia Trend Magazine. This recognition, presented at the GMA’s Cities United Summit on January 28, celebrates Statesboro’s innovative Village Builders Initiative, a program dedicated to addressing and alleviating resource deficits in underserved areas of the city.

support local youth in becoming the best versions of themselves.

Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of GMA, said, “The Visionary City Awards highlight the transformative impact of initiatives like Statesboro’s Village Builders Initiative. Their commitment to resource allocation and community empowerment is exemplary in addressing the challenges of underserved populations.”

LARRY MAYS HIRED AS VICE PRESIDENT FOR COLLEGE ADVANCEMENT AT OTC

“Being recognized as a visionary city amongst the 536 cities represented by the Georgia Municipal Association is a testament to the groundbreaking, significant work we’re doing right here in Statesboro,” says Mayor Jonathan McCollar. “Our youth are the residents, leaders, and business owners of tomorrow. It is our duty as a city to ensure that they are equipped with the tools they need to be engaged, contributing members of our community. I am confident that we will continue to reap the benefits of the work we’re doing now for decades to come.”

“We are humbled to have the work we’ve completed for Statesboro’s youth and families recognized on the state level,” says Dr. LaSara Mitchell, Statesboro Village Builders Coordinator. “This feat would not be possible without the support of the Statesboro City Council and the collaborative efforts of the Statesboro Youth Commission and Statesboro Youth Council. Statesboro Village Builders is blessed to have volunteers from all walks of life contributing to our programming, event staffing, and future planning. It definitely ‘takes a village.”

Awarded in the “Large Cities Category,” Statesboro's Village Builders Initiative has been instrumental in enhancing access to essential resources like healthcare, education and employment opportunities in identified "villages" within the city. The initiative includes resource day events, financial literacy workshops, mentorship pairings and the Leading by Reading Literacy Program, all contributing to the city's efforts to break generational poverty, empower residents and

Statesboro Village Builders was conceived in January 2023 by the City of Statesboro’s Youth Commission and Mayor Jonathan McCollar in collaboration with community stakeholders. Statesboro Village Builders aims to be a community-wide youth development program that offers a comprehensive approach to ensure that all youth in Statesboro and their families have support in becoming the best version of themselves. To learn more, visit www.statesboroga.gov/villagebuilders.

On Feb. 1st Ogeechee Technical College hired a new Vice President for College Advancement, Larry Mays. Larry Mays comes to Ogeechee Tech after 23-plus years at Georgia Southern University. He started at Georgia Southern as the Head Men’s Golf Coach reestablishing Eagle Golf as a perennial power in the collegiate ranks. While coach he was an integral part of helping the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation design and fundraise for $1.3 million for the Bennett-Ramsey Golf Center, a 25-acre practice facility with the 6,000 square foot Howard House that serves as the headquarters for the Eagle men’s and women’s golf programs. After starting the women’s program Larry moved into the role of Director of Golf overseeing both programs and the practice facility. Mays then moved into athletic administration. From 2016-2021, he served as the Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs. In August 2021, he entered a full-time fundraising role for Athletics, serving as the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Leadership Giving. For the past 15 months, Mays has served as a Director of Development in the University Advancement office.

A 1997 graduate of Berry College with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, Mays added a master’s degree in sports administration from Georgia State in 2000. He is married to the former Ansley Claire Calhoun of Savannah. The couple resides in Brooklet, Georgia, with their daughters, Reagan and Riley.

CREASYS HELP FEED GEORGIA

On January 7th, Feeding Georgia once again brought the state’s legislative and Agricultural leaders together for a night of BBQ and bonding at the 61st Annual Wild Hog Supper. Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper and Georgia's House and Senate Agriculture Committees, our honorary co-hosts, helped celebrate the ultimate kickoff to the legislative session. The annual event gives legislators, business leaders, and organizations a chance to unite for Feeding Georgia's Farm to Foodbank program. Throughout the night, guests dug into delicious Georgia-grown dishes, including perfectly roasted pork and perfect peach ice cream, while swapping stories and ideas.

This year, support soared as our number of sponsors doubled over past events. The evening began with the inaugural Hunger

Heroes reception in the Georgia Freight Depot’s Blue Room. Honorees included Grand Prize winners from our annual peer-topeer industry fundraisers. 2023 winners from the Georgia Legal Food Frenzy included Joe Habachy (Attorney General’s Cup Winner) and Coleman Talley LLP (Bar Presidents Award). Prize Belts were also on display and given to Georgia Accounting Food Fight winners: Nichols, Cauley and Associates, and Anna Abernathy, CPA. Combined these fundraisers brought in nearly $1.2 million to Georgia Food Banks.

Beyond BBQ, fresh fruits and vegetables have been pouring in to fuel the Farm to Foodbank program, ensuring surplus produce from Georgia's farmers reaches those in need. In 2023 alone, Georgia farmers donated a staggering 30 million pounds of food—a testament to their dedication to fighting hunger and the collaboration between our farmers and food banks with tremendous support from The Southeast Regional Cooperative (SERC). www.feedinggeorgia.org.

Local beef producers Jarrod & Becca Creasy of 3 F Processing (Fries Frozen Foods), are pictured with Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper & representatives from Feeding Georgia. Beef producers in the state, such as 3F yielded over 55,000 lbs. of beef for Feeding Georgia last year.

CANOOCHEE PADDLE RACE OPENS REGISTRATION

ORK BRINGS THE POPULAR EVENT BACK TO EVANS COUNTY

Ogeechee Riverkeeper (ORK) will host the Canoochee Paddle Race on Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Evans County, Georgia. The race will begin at noon, with fun paddlers to follow.

The race will take place along approximately seven miles of the Canoochee River, from Brewton Bridge to Rocks River Bridge landing. Rocks River Bridge landing will also serve as the headquarters for the awards presentation, winners circle, food vendors, and entertainment. Everyone is welcome to come cheer for the racers and enjoy a day out by the river.

Paddlers of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes are welcome to compete. Non-racing paddlers are also welcome to follow the route after racers have started. Entrants will receive a vessel identifier, map, and official race t-shirt. Registrants will receive packet pick-up information via email. Entry is $50 per person, regardless of racing status.

ORK does not provide vessels or equip-

ment. Personal location devices are required for each participant. Entry is limited and pre-registration is required. The deadline to register is Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at noon.

WHERE: Canoochee River, Evans County

ROCKS RIVER BRIDGE LANDING: GPS 32.184196, -81.889276

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, noon. - 5 p.m.

COST: $50 per person; Free to cheer

DETAILS AND REGISTRATION: www.ogeecheeriverkeeper.org/events/canoochee-paddle-race/ Ogeechee Riverkeeper 501(c)(3) works to protect, preserve, and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin, which includes all of the streams f lowing out to Ossabaw Sound and St. Catherine’s Sound. The Canoochee River is about 108 miles long and the Ogeechee River itself is approximately 245 miles long. The Ogeechee River system drains more than 5,500 square miles across 21 counties in Georgia. More at www.ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

JIM ‘N NICK’S COMMUNITY BAR-B-Q CELEBRATES STATESBORO GRAND OPENING

Jim 'N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q (JNN), known for award-winning barbecue, Southern hospitality and supporting the communities they serve, celebrated the grand opening of its new location in Statesboro January 14th at 24106 U.S. Highway 80 East. Several notable public officials gathered to celebrate the new restaurant, Statesboro City Manager Charles Penny, Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Michelle Davis, and Statesboro Food Bank Executive Director Sheila Steward-Leach.

The new Statesboro location features a quick-casual dining style, allowing for faster customer service while providing the same award-winning barbecue, hospitality and community-oriented atmosphere that have been cornerstones of the brand for decades.

“Jim ‘N Nick’s is excited to bring the brand’s delicious barbecue and southern hospitality to Statesboro,” said Drew Perry, Jim ‘N Nick’s general manager. “This will mark our 17th location in Georgia, and we are thrilled to serve our new neighbors, visitors and local barbecue lovers. We are committed to giving back to the community and embracing everything that makes Statesboro so special.”

To kick off the celebratory day and further serve as a strong community advocate, Jim ‘N Nick’s Statesboro partnered with the Statesboro Food Bank to raise $2,500 for the organization at its recent family and friends’ weekend.

The brand plans to open seven additional locations over the next 12 months. Jim ‘N Nick’s is eager to bring new team members on board to continue its mission of treating customers like family. To learn more about Jim ‘N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q and employment opportunities at the new Statesboro location, visit www.jimnnicks.com.

(L-R) Jim N Nick’s President Brian Lyman, Chamber Chair Michelle Davis and City Manager Charles Penny.

LITTLE JOURNALISTS, BIG STORIES

The Brooklet Elementary School student news team had their own personal media day with the Savannah Bananas Baseball Team on Feb. 2nd, and Georgia Southern University Women's Basketball will welcome the young journalists on Wed. Feb. 7th.

The visits give students a great opportunity to further explore careers in multimedia journalism and sports marketing and practice their journalism skills as they serve their school.

Eleven members of the news team, led by their advisor, Ethan Sandhagen, a fifth-grade English teacher at the school, travelled to Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah to learn and practice their media skills. During the visit they interviewed players, coaches and members of the Savannah Bananas’ media team. They also helped set up the team’s pregame show for their scheduled scrimmage on Friday night.

In addition to managing their school’s daily intercom announcements, the BES News Team prepares stories and produces a live broad-

cast every five weeks. This includes the video production and live streaming of the broadcast. Students are selected to be part of the news team based on their interest, charisma, and their writing and public speaking skills. At the beginning of each school year in August, Sandhagen trains and prepares a new news team that goes live with their first broadcast of the year on the day after Labor Day, and then every five weeks thereafter.

“This team really does a fantastic job sharing the news with our school,” said Sandhagen. “They announce lunch choices, weather conditions for the day, any special school events, they interview staff members, lead our school rallies, announce birthdays, tell jokes, and showcase any student awards. They really do keep us all informed.”

Sandhagen shared that the news team has also had the chance to interview Georgia Southern’s basketball coaches and players. The female members of the news team have also been invited back to Georgia Southern to participate in National Girls & Women in Sports Day. These young student journalists will be emceeing game promotions, announcing the starting five lineup, interviewing staff and fans, taking over the GA Southern Women's Basketball Instagram story for the game, and broadcasting the game live.

“These are all such amazing opportunities for the students,” Sandhagen said.

PORTAL FOOTBALL IS GA'S "MOST IMPROVED TEAM" IN CLASS A & BEYOND

COACH MCEACHIN RECEIVES HUDL AWARD IN MACON

Portal was recognized as Georgia's most improved football team in Class A during the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association's Falcon Coach Luncheon in Macon on Feb. 6th.

At the annual event, Georgia High School Football Daily sponsored the Hudl Awards. They go to head coaches of the “most improved winning teams” in each Georgia High School Association and Georgia Independent Athletic Association classification. Nine public and private high school head coaches, including Portal's Jason McEachin, were honored for their teams' accomplishments during the fall 2023 season.

According to a press release issued by Georgia High School Football Daily, the rating method used to determine the award recipients revealed that Portal was actually

the most improved public high school in all of the Georgia High School Association's football classifications.

Prior to the start of last year's season, Portal was projected to finish in last place in Region 3-A; however, algorithms used to determine the ratings couldn't factor in the spirit and support of P-Town fans or the gridiron grit of the Panther players. Instead, the Portal Panthers defeated the defending region champions, Jenkins County High School, to claim the school's very first region championship in school history!

McEachin was hired in 2021 after Portal experienced a winless season. This fall the program had its first winning season since 2011, including its first playoff victory since 2004.

Several college coaches also attended the

COLLINS IS DISTRICT 1 MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

STATESBORO BAND DIRECTOR HONORED BY STATE'S MUSIC EDUCATORS

Lee Collins, director of bands for Statesboro High School, was selected by the Georgia Music Educators Association as its District 1 Music Educator of the Year.

Collins was honored during the opening session of GMEA’s In-Service Conference on January 25th, at the Classic Center Theatre in Athens. He was one of 14 district educators who was honored, and he was a finalist for State Music Educator of the Year.

Collins is a graduate of Valdosta State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in music education, and Georgia Southern University, where he earned his master’s degree in music technology. He has been a director of bands for 25 years, 12 of those at Statesboro High School.

luncheon including Georgia’s Kirby Smart, Georgia Tech’s Brent Key, Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, Tennessee’s Josh Heupel and Florida State’s Mike Norvell.

Hudl is a sports technology tool owned by Agile Sports Technologies, Inc., which is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. According to its website it gives coaches and athletes a way to review game footage and improve team play. Founded in 2009, Georgia High School Football Daily is an online newsletter with more than 24,000 subscribers.

(L-R) Brandon Hedgecock, of Hudl and Jason McEachin, Portal Panther Head Coach.

2000 Statesboro Magazine Prints Issue 1

STATESBORO-BULLOCH COUNTY GROWTH THROUGH THE YEARS

During Statesboro Magazine’s twenty-five years, the Development Authority of Bulloch County has been working tirelessly to achieve its mission of bringing economic opportunities to the citizens of our community. We would like to celebrate the critical projects that have had a positive effect on our local economy…

1998 Viracon Locates in Gateway Regional Industrial Park, the last of the Big Three Industries in that Park (With Walmart Distribution and Briggs & Stratton)

2010

Purchase of I-16 Property that would ultimately become Bruce Yawn Commerce Park

2001

Splash in the Boro Opens For Splashing

2015 Statesboro Voted as one of America‘s Best Communities

2011 GAF Opens

2015 Tormenta Begins First Season

2010 Great Dane Trailers Breaks Ground

2013 Statesboro Blue Mile Launched

STATESBORO-BULLOCH

COUNTY GROWTH THROUGH THE YEARS

2016 WL Plastics Established in Gateway Park

2017 Georgia Southern Approved for Engineering

2022 Publix Returns to Statesboro

2021 TA Express Begins Construction at Bruce Yawn Commerce Park

2022

2022

AJIN Georgia Becomes lst Hyundai Supplier to Announce Construction

Aspen Aerogels Becomes the First Industry Location at Bruce Yawn Commerce Park

2022

2023 Hanon System Hyundai Supplier Locates in Gateway Park

2023

2023

SECO Ecoplastic Becomes 2nd Hyundai Supplier

Looking forward to growth and opportunities for the next 25 years.

GINNY LEE HENDLEY

VIRGINIA LUXE – MOST FABULOUS TRENDIEST BOUTIQUE

VIRGINIA CURVY – MOST FABULOUS CURVY SELECTION

GINNY & GEORGIA JUNIORS BOUTIQUE – FINALIST KIDS CLOTHING /BOUTIQUE

VIRGINIA LOVE – FINALIST CONSIGNMENT STORE

VIRGINIA LUXE – FINALIST LOCAL STORE ONLINE SHOPPING APP

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK FORTUNE

FAITH-WORK INTEGRATION

IS A GOAL OF MANY CHRISTIANS. HOW DO WE take the faith we have in church on Sunday out into the business world, where profit is the goal, and money rules? Just ask Ginny Lee Hendley, Statesboro’s Most Fabulous Woman! She has stepped out on faith this past year and opened six plus businesses in Statesboro, and has also been elected to represent the 3rd district on Statesboro’s City Council! All while continuing a real estate management career within her family’s business, Hendley Properties.

“I just have a deep love for Statesboro,” said Hendley. “When I got the opportunity to live in the historic district, I moved there. Lots of people have encouraged me. I want to do my part, along with other local people in the downtown area, to make Statesboro the best it can be.”

Hendley went to Mercer University to become a therapist or Christian counselor, graduating in 2008. She returned to Statesboro and started working at Hendley Properties with her parents.

“To start with I was hanging flyers on doors. I had no idea what I would do best,” said Hendley, “Later, I excelled at being leasing manager. I worked with Bryan Davis and learned a lot from him. My dad has always been a great teacher and mentor, too. I learned so much about the real estate development and management business from him. I remember as a child, going along with mom and dad as they were designing neighborhoods, they taught me and I observed a lot. It was fascinating to me to see something come from nothing.”

When the opportunity came for Hendley to become property manager, she was married with a child and a baby.

I just have a deep love for Statesboro. When I got the opportunity to live in the historic district, I moved there. Lots of people have encouraged me. I want to do my part, along with other local people in the downtown area, to make Statesboro the best it can be.”

– GINNY LEE HENDLEY

“I raised them in the office,” she said. “Doing calls for Hendley.”

She still does calls for Hendley. And she takes calls – all the after hours calls from renters. She has her hand in all aspects of the business – marketing, leasing, employee management, and logistics.

“We’re fortunate to have a great team of people,” said Hendley. “And, a great employer! I really enjoy my work.”

All that work on new homes and designing interiors, paying attention to complementary and contrasting colors, and patterns and designs eventually led Hendley to transfer her business acumen and love of colors and creating to the fashion world.

“I have always loved fashion,” said Hendley. “When I realized I could transfer what I’ve learned to the fashion world, I got excited.”

Her flagship store, Virginia Luxe opened in 2023.

“I wanted a place for people to feel welcome,” said Hendley. “I feel like encouragement is my spiritual gift. I see the beauty in people and in the clothes, the way the clothes make them feel. I want to be a part of bringing out the best in people. I know life is hard. If I can just show them how great they really are. I want them to leave happier then when they came in.”

Hendley not only has an eye for fashion and making people feel good, she is also a marketing genius, using social media and event planning to expand her empire.

“You know I couldn’t do any of this without Jesus,” she said. “He is in everything. He told me to step out on faith and open these stores to reach people and make them feel good about themselves, make them feel worthy and beautiful. It just keeps on going.”

So far, in addition to Virginia Luxe, Hendley has opened Virginia Love, a thrift store; Virginia Curvy, for plus size women’s clothing; Ginny & Georgia’s Junior Boutique for girls & tweens; Mama & Me Maternity shop with infant wear and Mama & Me matching outfits; Virginia Locks, a permanent jewelry line, with a boot and hat bar which are interactive with customers within Virginia Luxe. Plus, more on the way.

“I’m getting close to 40,” said Hendley. “I had always planned to have a lady’s boutique to run in my 50s or 60s. But retirement has never been a goal of mine. I enjoy my work. I love new ideas and keeping up with the latest fashions and accessories. I love helping people become their best selves. I have a strong mission to mentor young women by pouring

into them. I feel like my morning podcasts are an outreach. I think my greatest success so far has been helping people get out of bed in the morning. Clothes are my conduit to reaching people. I am an angel with a crooked halo. God doesn’t call the equipped, he equips those he calls.”

Hendley’s stores aren’t confined to their brick-and-mortar locations. She hosts pop-up shops at special events, along with her boot & hat bar. She also provides a fashion service for customers who tell her what they are looking for, and she finds it for them.

“Whatever I can do to make their dreams come true,” she said. “We can host something special at your house or in the store, for you and your friends to play dress up. I love to entertain and to bring people together.”

Bringing people together is another of Hendley’s gifts. She seeks out young women entrepreneurs to join her in her endeavors, offering their merchandise and giving them opportunities within her retail empire. She exudes confidence and hopes to imbue others to be able to do what they love.

Hendley also believes in giving back. She is a past performer in Dancing with the Statesboro Stars, a popular fundraiser for Safe Haven. She supports Open Hearts Community Mission, the Roosevelt Cone Jr. Scholarship Foundation, Pretty Girls, an outreach program of the Roosevelt Cone Jr. Character Development Center. And, she is

active in First Baptist Church, singing in the choir each Sunday.

“There are a lot of people in Statesboro doing good things,” said Hendley. “I like to bridge the gap and bring them all together; networking and bringing people together; matching them up. I’m in Leadership Bulloch (Class of 2024). I have met so many great friends and learned so many things about economic development and how our city and county run. Statesboro is really such a great place to live and work.”

Hendley’s passion for Statesboro led her to run this year for the 3rd district’s city council seat. She ran unopposed when incumbent Venus Mack withdrew from the race. She started in her third job on January 1.

“I have learned that the city runs just like a business,” said Hendley. “I can see what so, so many people have done who came before me. Now it’s our time to step up and step out. It’s now my generation’s responsibility to keep the vision alive. We can learn from the past to direct the future. I challenge local residents to get involved and make a difference.”

What brings Hendley real joy?

“If I’m not creating, I’m dead,” she said. “I love new ideas and being on the cutting edge of new trends. My daddy can look at a piece of land and see a subdivision with trees and sidewalks and lampposts before it is built. I can see things in pictures or in ads and I’m taking from that how you can stage something

I have always loved fashion.When I realized I could transfer what I’ve learned to the fashion world, I got excited.”

– GINNY LEE HENDLEY

to sell it. How we can set up a scene in the store that is engaging. When I open myself up to see what God sees, it opened up the world to me in a whole new way.”

Hendley’s favorite scripture is “The joy of the Lord is my strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10).

“Remaining joyful even in bad times, no matter what, is real strength,” said Hendley. “Kindness is also strength. Strength is sometimes giving someone a meal. Or helping them if they don’t have the money to shop. It’s not about being liked. It’s about loving on people and being kind. It’s simple. The best gifts come from our childhood we just need to remember them later.”

How does Hendley feel about being chosen Most Fabulous Woman in Statesboro?

“I feel really humbled. I’m thankful and grateful,” she said. “I’m trying to understand why. It’s been a big year. I really appreciate your readers for acknowledging it. The way the Lord is working, it is just the start of things to come.” S

ROOSEVELT CONE, JR.

MOST FABULOUS MAN!

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK FORTUNE

OUR MAN OF THE YEAR!

You have to be of a certain age to recognize the ringtone on Roosevelt Cone’s cell phone. It’s the theme from “Reading Rainbow,” the third-longest running show on Public Television. The #2 show was “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.” Both LeVar Burton and Fred Rogers are personal heroes of Roosevelt Cone, Jr.

Cone is a native of Bulloch County graduating high school at Southeast Bulloch in 2001. By the age of 12, he was working with his father in Rosie & Sons Moving Company. He attended OTC, then traveled overseas while working online to complete a bachelor’s degree in Childhood Development and a Master’s degree in Psychology.

He started working with children at Sandy’s Learning Center in Statesboro. He later worked as a counselor at the Savannah River Challenge Program for youthful offenders, then spent a long stent at the Bulloch County Boys & Girls Club.

“It’s always been my passion,” said Cone. “It hit me in 11th grade. I had to write a career paper, once I had written about my passion for working with kids, I said to myself, ‘It’s for real now!’ I started doing well in school and focusing on my dreams.”

While Mr. Rogers took kids to the bakery, we take kids out to places like Kairos Farms in Brooklet, and we also bring in business owners to talk to the kids about their companies and how they run things. We give them life experiences that they may not have the opportunity to enjoy otherwise.”

– ROOSEVELT CONE, JR.

MR. ROOSEVELT’S NEIGHBORHOOD

Cone and his wife Shelby eventually formed their own after-school program. Through their moving company established in 2016 – R & S Packing & Moving (2024 Most Fabulous Moving Company!), they were able to offer scholarships to kids at SEB who didn’t have the resources to play sports and participate in other after-school programs. The Cones offered scholarships to kids through SEB on Honors Night, hoping to encourage other parents and businesses to do the same.

Two years ago, they decided to form a foundation, The Roosevelt Cone, Jr. Scholarship Foundation 501(c)3, to raise additional funds, engage community partners and fund the Roosevelt Cone Character Development Center. A passion realized!

You can see his admiration of Burton and Rogers within the Roosevelt Cone Character Development Center on North Main Street. The bright colors and classroom-type stations are separate nooks used by the children each day. There’s a computer lab, a character development room, a main meeting room, a game room and a store where the kids can purchase toys with play money earned by demonstrating good character.

Cone and Shelby have committed themselves to shepherding young people after school each day, in character development, life affirmations, communication skills, management skills, and good relationship skills that will lead to them being better citizens. The Cones include sports and other activities designed to increase the students’ understanding of good character, citizenship and good sportsmanship.

“The old way of thinking is long gone,” said Shelby. “We had it better growing up. Kids were safer. We would sit on the front porch, drink tea, and visit with friends and neighbors. Driving was the thing that got us in trouble.”

“If it was mandatory for character development to be taught in schools beginning at Pre-K, with parents being held accountable also, our culture would change for the better,” said Cone.

The Character Development Center is built off of the TV programs that Cone admires.

“While Mr. Rogers took kids to the bakery,” said Cone. “We take kids out to places like Kairos Farms in Brooklet, and we also bring in business owners to talk to the kids about their companies and how they run things. We give them life experiences that they may not have the opportunity to enjoy otherwise.”

A long list of Statesboro business owners and professionals visit the after-school program to interact with the kids on a regular basis. Other community partners also give funds as sponsors to help the Cones with their mission.

The Cones own other businesses that support the RCDC, as well. A furniture “store,” filled with furniture acquired by the moving company, has a yard sale every F1rst Friday at 127 North Main Street. A store for sports fans – The Statesboro Sports & Memorabilia Fan Shop at 8 East Olliff Street has frequent card shows and athletic shoe sales to benefit the RCDC. And, fundraisers are held periodically to support the center. Once-a-month Cone has begun selling grilled hotdog lunches in custom take-out boxes for $10 with proceeds going to the center.

March 1st is Parents’ Night Out when you can bring the kids to the center and enjoy a date night. On May 18th the Cones are hosting the Lazy Goat Card Show at the Holiday Inn on Commerce Drive. All to benefit the foundation and the RCDC.

Enrollment for 2024 Summer Character Camp has begun for June 3 – July 26, 2024, with limited spots available. Summer camp runs from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, and includes field trips, games and more for ages 8 & up.

“Free time in a safe and nurturing environment – that’s what we do,” said Cone. “Each day the kids recite the character pledge and the rules. We reinforce these principles and provide ongoing support for after school.

“This place is designed with everything I love and feel,” said Cone. “I’m not the boss. We work together as a team. We’re professionals. That’s who I am. I’m not a suit and tie kind of guy. I’m not worried about being in charge. I’m living my dream! I’ve always believed, give a kid (or people) time and attention and they will do well. All they need is time.” S

CHARACTER PLEDGE: Trustworthiness

Respect

Responsibility

Fairness

Caring

Citizenship

Happy 25th Anniversary Statesboro Magazine!

IT’S INSURANCE MADE SIMPLE.

Insurance can be complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. Working with an Independent Agent means more choices from someone with your best interests in mind. And when you choose Grange, you can be sure they’re looking out for you, too.

For more information, call us at 912.764.9602 or visit bbwhins.com

SHARMEQUA FRANKLIN

MOST FABULOUS YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR!

THE ARTSY GIRL EARRINGS – MOST FABULOUS LOCAL PRODUCT!

FINALIST – MOST FABULOUS JEWELRY STORE

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK FORTUNE

SHE CALLS HER SHE SHED, THE SHAR SHED. IT IS A CUSTOM-BUILT ONE-ROOM studio decorated in bright pink which houses Sharmequa Franklin’s brand of jewelry and accessories – The Artsy Girl. A side-gig developed during COVID, Sharmequa kept from going stir-crazy when homebound during the pandemic by drawing and designing jewelry. Her “real” job is as corporate Chief Learning Officer for AgSouth Farm Credit which brought she and her husband and son to Statesboro from Maryland.

Franklin was born in Early Branch, South Carolina. Reared by her grandparents, Franklin remembers how her grandfather used to draw with her.

“I think he is the one responsible for the development of my artistic talents,” she said.

Franklin started her jewelry & accessories empire with an office in her house.

“My husband would say, ‘Looks like someone exploded in here!’” she said. “I use a resin mixture and lots of glitter in my earrings. There must be temperature control for the

resin to cure. You need good ventilation in the house. I must wear a respirator while I am working on jewelry. Plus, I was often interrupted by my son and husband. I thought to myself – I need my own space!”

She ordered the shed from Oakland Structures built on the design of Amish little houses. The cottage arrived in June of 2020. By September, the inside of the Shar Shed was completed with chandeliers, shiplap and bright pink on the chairs, stools, walls, and ceiling! A design studio which held not only Franklin’s jewelry making equipment, but her dreams and inspiration as well.

“I want every woman who wears my designs to feel they are a part of my journey – Fabulous in my creations!” she said. [Franklin’s philosophy aligns closely with ours!]

Franklin has a sign ‘Born to be Fabulous’ hanging over a hand-drawn portrait of her mom, aunts and best friends, the first drawing she completed when sequestered. The lady’s portraits form the backdrop on cards holding Franklin’s earrings paying homage to the women that shaped her life.

“Mom passed away in 2009,” said Franklin. “I wanted to try and incorporate Granddad and Mom in The Artsy Girl. Mom was full of life and very creative. She made her own wedding dress and bridesmaid’s dresses. She always wore fashionable clothes and just sparkled. I didn’t understand mental health until she passed away. When I talk about being your best self, that comes from my mom’s suffering from mental illness. When the pandemic started, I became aware of the need to protect my own mental health.”

Franklin demonstrates her concern by pouring into her clients with Sparkle Energy – her brand of encouraging and caring for her customers.

“My goal is for women to feel positive about themselves,” said Franklin. “If I haven’t done that, then I haven’t done what the Lord created me to do.”

Franklin doesn’t have a stand-alone store, but her fabulous earrings, bracelets, custom bags, and accessories can be found at several locations throughout the area. The first store to carry her designs was Cheeky Bliss.

“I posted on Facebook that I was making earrings,” said Franklin. “And Shannon Ward asked me if I’d thought of placing my products

in a retail store. She connected me with Tiffany Deal who owns Cheeky Bliss. When I talked to her about possibly putting my designs in her store, I didn’t even have a sample with me! But, she said, ‘Let’s try it!’ I’ve been there since.”

Another friend, Ames Floyd, built her spinner displays. He also built her Artsy Girl stand at Collective & Vine, another Artsy Girl location. You can also find The Artsy Girl creations at Sugar Magnolia Coffeehouse in Statesboro, at Ivy Rose Boutique in Brooklet, at Locally Made in Savannah on Broughton Street, and at Mommy & Me Bakery in Hampton, S.C. The Artsy Girl also participates in various markets in Hilton Head and Bluffton, S.C. Low Country Made was the first artisan market to put The Artsy Girl on rotation. Franklin is a South Carolina native, so she considers herself to be a Low Country girl, too. She also does pop-up shops, custom designs, and special events such as Shopping by Lantern Light held at Visit Statesboro the Tuesday before Thanksgiving each year.

This past year, The Artsy Girl was chosen by Buy From a Black Woman to participate in their Inspire Tour and Holiday Market presented by H&M. Franklin was invited to

My goal is for women to feel positive about themselves. If I haven’t done that, then I haven’t done what the Lord created me to do.”

– SHARMEQUA FRANKLIN

Charlotte, North Carolina, and Los Angeles, California, to showcase her handmade one-ofa-kind jewelry & accessories items. She also participated in the Hallmark Mahogany Moments event in Alanta, Georgia, with other makers and artists.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to showcase my product at these amazing events.,” said Franklin. “I really believe in the mission of Buy From a Black Woman. I appreciate their advocacy for black womenowned businesses.”

Franklin also has a Pink Sparkle Party on Pink Friday, a week before Black Friday, held last year at Sugar Magnolia Coffeehouse. Community friends and partners came together to support her first Sparkle Party: Frazier’s Flowers, Seven Willows, Annie’s Nails, Solé Naturals Beauty Salon, Sugar Magnolia, 224 Photography, Page XVII by Jasmyne S., Copper & Brass Paper Goods, Crystal McCorkle with Mary Kay, Lori Grice Photography, The Collective & Vine, and Virginia Luxe.

“We gave away swag bags, so any individual or business who wanted to put something into the swag bag was invited to help spread the Razzle Dazzle,” said Franklin.

She also has a team of Artsy Girls who help her with marketing, selling and promotions. Behind every good woman business owner is a team of people rooting her on. Whitney Lavoie is Chief Marketing Officer in charge of the marketing. Janiah Dawson is part time administrative assistant and organizer. Tiffany Gill with 224 Photography oversees content strategy. Her husband, Pride, is the production manager. And Franklin calls her son, William, the manager.

Franklin manages to add a little sparkle & razzle dazzle to everything she undertakes! In fact, she sends a “Sparkle Energy” postcard inside orders along with a hand drawn picture of the Shar Shed and some of that Sparkle Energy sprinkled on it.

“I’m just trying to put positive energy out into the world,” she said. “I feel incredibly honored that Statesboro Magazine readers would vote for The Artsy Girl in any category! I’m not from here, I didn’t go to Georgia Southern. I am just honored and blessed that Statesboro thought enough of me and The Artsy Girl to favor us with this recognition.

I am honored and excited to have this great town on this fabulous journey with me.” S

These girls are tough. They are the best of the best in the state! They not only play flag football, they’re leaders at SEB involved in softball, basketball and cheering.”

– MARCI COCHRAN

MARCI COCHRAN

MOST FABULOUS COACH!

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY MARCI COCHRAN

GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL HAS EXPLODED ACROSS HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE STATE OF Georgia. In four years, the sport has grown to where nearly 200 schools participate in the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) sanctioned leagues. Southeast Bulloch High School’s team, lead by Coach Marci Cochran, our Most Fabulous Coach, was formed three years ago, and every one of those three years (2021, 2022, 2023) has brought the state championship trophy home to SEB! Not only have the Jackets been state champs for three years in a row, they have set state records by winning every time.

Cochran’s experience with flag football began at Georgia Southern where she played the game in intramurals. When SEB Athletic Director Abram Scott told her that the school would be adding flag football, Cochran, who was coaching women’s basketball at the time, was excited to accept the challenge of coaching the team.

“Coach Scott had three girls,” said Cochran. “He was the former football coach.

After Portal did well, Scott brought flag football to SEB.”

Cochran held September tryouts for the first two years. That drew about 30 girls. This past season, tryouts were held in May and 60 girls showed up. The team has 28 players and one manager. The team is both varsity and junior varsity, grades 9 – 12. JV includes grades 9-10. The 11th and 12th graders make up the varsity team. This year five seniors led the team to victory: Addie Hood, Ava King, Kaley More, Alex Odum and Korine Talkington.

Cochran coaches offense, and her husband, Nick, coaches defense. Paula Kitchings, Jenni Youmans and Jay Reddick are assistant coaches. Each game the team plays four 10-minute quarters with a five-minute half-time. Instead of 10 yards for a first down, like in regular football, flag football has 20 yards to the down marker from a fixed line. Like in regular football, there are four downs to advance the ball and score. There are no field goals, only extra running points. In theory it’s a non-contact/contact sport.

The defense is really good at getting those flags. Everyone on the team is constantly getting better, too. Three girls have signed to play at college. Two of those wouldn’t have been able to attend college if it hadn’t been for flag football scholarships.”

– MARCI COCHRAN

“These girls are tough,” said Cochran. “They are the best of the best in the state! They not only play flag football, they’re leaders at SEB involved in softball, basketball and cheering.”

The demanding schedule of the condensed fall sport starts in late September in the middle of other fall sports’ seasons and continues through the playoffs to the championship in December. Practice is after school between 3:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. each day. In the summers, the team practices in the mornings.

The secret to the team’s success? “They’re fast and they don’t miss flags,” said Cochran. “The defense is really good at getting those flags. Everyone on the team is constantly getting better, too. Three girls have signed to play at college. Two of those wouldn’t have been able to attend college if it hadn’t been for flag football scholarships.”

According to Coach Cochran, it took the whole team to win three state championships, but the MVP is senior Alex Odum who plays

both safety and receiver. Odum has been recognized by Georgia High School Football Daily as Flag Football Player of the Week, having started in every single game.

The team is proud to have played both in Jaguar Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida, and in Mercedes Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons are great sponsors of flag football. They provided gift bags of merchandise to the SEB team. The NFL as a whole is behind the sport and 2024 marks the first time that flag football will be added as an Olympic sport.

The Detroit Lions invited the team to a Falcons vs. Lions game for Women in Football Day. Eleven members of the team were able to make the flight with the Cochrans, six of whom had never before flown.

“The Falcons are such great sponsors,” said Cochran. “The team is a forerunner in the NFL for sponsoring flag football. When we flew to Detroit, the girls were decked out in Falcon’s gear – hats, jerseys, pullovers, and pants. The gear is in addition to

a $5,000 grant we were given the first year, with another $3,000 for the JV team. They could have chosen any team in Alabama or Georgia, and they chose SEB. The Falcons love us, too. They invited the team to a sports banquet in Atlanta.”

The Falcons and Emory Healthcare sponsor a Football Awards show in Atlanta each year. Regular and flag teams are celebrated. This is the third year the SEB team has been honored and has been able to travel as a team to the event.

“We appreciate the Falcons so much,” said Cochran. “Having a sponsor helps with the costs of the season which can be expensive.”

Just chartering buses to Atlanta for the playoffs and championship cost the team $8,000. They need sponsors now to help pay for their well-deserved championship rings. Three seniors and three juniors have all earned three championship rings. Those also cost the team $8,000. They’ve raised $4,000 so far.

They’re having a Boston butt sale in March around Easter to help raise more

money. You can follow the team on Southeast Bulloch High School’s Facebook page. There is also a team website with pictures of the team, trophies and rosters. There’ll be a ring ceremony and celebration in downtown Brooklet in mid-to-late April.

“It is so exciting to see the young girls become fans of the players,” said Cochran. “The excitement surrounding our championships has helped to create a whole fan base of future players within the community. The girls are role models for flag football around the state, and here at home. We hand out footballs and flags to the girl fans at games.”

Cochran also teaches first grade at Brooklet Elementary. She’ll be holding a flag football camp for girls this summer.

“This is the fastest growing sport in the GHSA,” said Cochran. “To have our SEB team win the state championship is awesome. To have them win three years in a row is amazing.”

We’d say, it’s Fabulous! S

The excitement surrounding our championships has helped to create a whole fan base of future players within the community. The girls are role models for flag football around the state, and here at home.”

– MARCI COCHRAN

Thank Sta o!

Most Fabulous Dentist Office & Most Fabulous Dental Hygienist - Jenny Highsmith

COLIN T. STRUB, D.D.S.

THOMAS E. MARHSALL, D.M.D.

JARRETT H. WALDEN, D.M.D.

KATHRYN W. MENTZER, D.M.D.

MEGAN CLARK

MOST FABULOUS BOSS

ROLLING MONKEY – MOST FABULOUS CUSTOMER SERVICE

ROLLING MONKEY – FINALIST MOST FABULOUS DESSERT

ROLLING MONKEY – FINALIST MOST FABULOUS ICE CREAM/FROZEN TREAT

ROLLING MONKEY – FINALIST MOST FABULOUS PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY PARTY

ROLLING MONKEY – FINALIST MOST FABULOUS AREA ATTRACTION/FAMILY FUN

ROLLING MONKEY – FINALIST MOST FABULOUS MASCOT – ROMO

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK FORTUNE

MEGAN AND GARRETT

CLARK, OWNERS OF ROLLING MONKEY

Handcrafted Ice Cream, believe that people are the essence of any business. That goes for customers and employees. The Garretts have developed a business model at Rolling Monkey based on a combination of Christian values, engineering principles, and Eastern philosophy which unlocks the potential in employees. Creating an inspiring work culture that permeates the way Rolling Monkey does business. They’ve been Fabulist standouts, winning and being named finalists, in over seven categories each year since they opened in 2018.

“People are the essence of any business,” said Garrett. “The business system is behind the people; the system that you develop to engage employees and customers in an experience, not just a transaction. Our customers line up to interact with our employees.”

It’s because the employees are not just ice cream scoopers, they’re artisans who create to inspire. They pour cream onto flat top stations, while conversing with customers about what kind of flavors they would like, and what kind of day they’ve had. They hand-craft the ice cream treats with spatulas, sometimes flipping them like a hibachi chef, constantly engaging with the customer while moving the ice cream around the freezing

surface of the station. When the flavors are all mixed, the flattened ice cream is scraped up into several rolls which are served in a cup topped with your choice of free toppings like whipped cream and sprinkles.

The Clarks address the national worker shortage by investing in their employees, not only in good wages, but with life lessons and values.

“We think the recipe for a fulfilled artisan is one who loves his or her job; one who is good at his or her job; one who enjoys serving others; and one who is satisfactorily compensated for their efforts,” said Most Fabulous Boss winner Megan.

This philosophy has worked so well, the Clarks are often asked for a franchise opportunity.

“Before we offer anyone a franchise, we want to perfect our model and our systems of operating,” said Garrett.

The Clarks have been working on further testing the positive culture approach which uses moral principles to train employees. They are developing a plan that is system dependent instead of product dependent. This approach will enable the business philosophy to be applied to any business, not just ice cream.

“We are further testing our approach to customer engagement and employee fulfillment by working with several Fortune companies who want to unlock the potential in their people and create a positive and rewarding working environment,” said Garrett.

The Clarks formed another company, Inspired Solutions, in January 2023 to address the demand for a step-by-step guide to scaling business culture. Through Inspired Solutions they consult with businesses about cultivating the necessary steps to creating a rewarding working environment for everyone. From developing a mission statement and defining company values to developing a framework for measuring engagement, the key is living and breathing the mission.

Employees at Rolling Monkey are invited to post positive performance “dots” highlighting team members who have displayed the company’s values on a badge tree. The peer-to-peer performance rankings inspire team members to provide excellent customer service every time. Employees earn badges for having a positive spirit, being a team player, working fast - “Speedy Gonzales,” being a game changer, a quality controller, a problem solver, and displaying great customer engagement. Ten or more shout-outs gets employees a badge (flair) to wear on their hat or uniform.

Our employees look forward to coming to work. The work team is celebrated here."

– GARRETT CLARK

Their brand of doing business is being recognized. They were awarded Best of Georgia Ice Cream Parlors in 2022 and 2023 by the Georgia Business Journal.

MEANINGFUL, MEASURABLE IMPACT.

“Following the MMI framework in hiring will yield great bosses and customer service, but what is missing is the employee,” said Garrett. “Our story directs partners to want to be a part of Rolling Monkey, and leaders to seek out an Integrated Supply Chain within which to implement MMI into their arcs, bodies, cultures, and organizations.”

The Clarks are scaling their system of employee engagement to fit any business model.

“We don’t want potential partners or franchisees to feel that all of this is owner done,” said Garrett. “We can train and scale our model to fit other businesses in designing, implementing and challenging. We want our venture to be successful in changing the way businesses do business.”

The Clarks have made it their mission to share their employee engagement, customer service, and core values in an effort to change business climates overall.

“We can’t put money first,” said Garrett. “Profit is a byproduct of taking care of community first. The way employees treat people accomplishes this. Our employees look forward to coming to work. The work team is celebrated here. We not only serve ice cream, our staff works hard to be an example to others in how to be treated, so they will take that happy fulfilling experience, our culture, to other places.” S

Locally Owned

On-Site designers

Extensive Showroom Selection

Experienced Sales Staff and Installers

New Blog Updated Regularly

25

https://www.plankandtile.com/design-blog

Blog Author and Sales Representative

Jessica McBride

Blog Author and Sales Representative

Shera Waters

Eleana Alderman

BEAUTY & FITNESS

BARBER SHOP

RAY'S BARBERSHOP

Split Ends Salon

Vintage Barbers

DAY SPA/ MASSAGE THERAPY

JUVE INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE & WELLNESS

Serenity Day Spa

The Social Salon & Aesthetics

FITNESS CENTER/GYM

180 FITNESS

American Killer Bees Fitness Fusion Training

HAIR SALON

SPLIT ENDS HAIR SALON Nouveau Salon

The Social Salon & Aesthetics

HAIR STYLIST

JAEDA WILBURNSPLIT ENDS SALON

Amanda Clayton - Nouveau Salon

Amanda Kennedy - The Social Salon

NAIL SALON

ANNIE’S NAILS

Sugar Coat Nail Lounge iNails

PERSONAL TRAINER

MINDY FAIR

Taylor Zetterower

Cristen Brinson-Hughes

TANNING SALON/ BOUTIQUE

TAYLOR’S SUNSET TANNING & BOUTIQUE

The Social Salon & Aesthetics South Beach Tanning Company

WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC/ COUNSELING

SOUTHERN HEALTH & WELLNESS

JUVE Integrative Medicine & Wellness

Thrive Health & Wellness

DINING

ASIAN CUISINE

SOYUMI ASIAN KITCHEN

Tandoor & Tap

Miso Hungry Noodle Bar

BBQ

DOLAN’S BAR-B-QUE

Uncle Shug’s Bar-B-Que

Vandy’s Bar-B-Que

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

D’S FRIENDLY DINER

Bull & Barrell Steakhouse

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

BURGER

BITES IN THE BORO

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

Dingus Magee’s Restaurant

CATERER

HONEY SPECIALTIES

Divine Elegance Catering

The Painted Chef

CHICKEN WINGS

DINGUS MAGEE’S RESTAURANT

Loco’s Grill & Pub

Wing Maxx

COFFEEHOUSE/TEA

COOL BEANZ

ESPRESSO BAR

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

Three Tree Coffee Roasters

COUNTRY COOKING

FORDHAM’S FARMHOUISE

RESTAURANT

Beaver House Restaurant

Ralph’s Diner

DRIVE THRU SERVICE

ELLIANO’S COFFEE COMPANY

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

Three Tree Coffee Roasters

FRIED CHICKEN

FORDHAM’S FARMHOUSE RESTAURANT

Beaver House Restaurant

Ralph's Diner

MEXICAN CUISINE

EL SOMBRERO RESTAURANT

El Rinconcito

El Jalapeno

OUTDOOR DINING

GNAT’S LANDING

Nonna Picci Wood Fired Pizza

Tandoor & Tap

OVERALL RESTAURANT

BULL & BARREL STEAKHOUSE

Tandoor & Tap

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

PIZZA

NONNA PICCI

WOOD FIRED PIZZA

Mellow Mushroom

Patterson’s Station 67

EMPLOYERS

BOSS

MEGAN CLARKROLLING MONKEY

Sharon Persinger - Up Market Media

Renee Thompson - Bleu Blush

BUSINESS THAT GIVES BACK

BULLOCH SOLUTIONS

Citizens Bank

Great GA Realty

SEAFOOD

OCEAN GALLEY

SEAFOOD

Saucy Shrimp

Red Claw Juicy Seafood & Bar

SUSHI

SHOGUN HIBACHI

GRILL & SUSHI BAR

Orchid Asian Restaurant

Tokyo Japanese Restaurant

DESSERT

SMALL CAKES

CUPCAKERY & FROZEN TREATS

Rolling Monkey

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

ICE CREAM/ FROZEN TREATS

BORO SNOW

Rolling Monkey

Big Dog Snow Cones

BUSINESS LUNCH

SUGAR MAGNOLIA

BISTRO & BAR

Loco’s Grill & Puib

Tandoor & Tap

BUFFET

TANDOOR & TAP

Ole Times Country Buffet

Fordham’s Farmhouse

COMPANY TO WORK FOR

EAST GEORGIA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Willow Pond Senior Living

The Sack Company

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

BARTENDER

BOBBY BARKLEY - SUGAR

MAGNOLIA BISTRO & BAR

Dale Fagan - Bull & Barrell

Garrett Riggleman - Tandoor & Tap

COCTAIL MENU

TANDOOR & TAP

Bull & Barrell Steakhouse

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT

BULL & BARREL STEAKHOUSE

Tandoor & Tap

Red Claw Juicy Seafood & Bar

DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANT/PATIO

DEL SUR

Nonna Picci Wood Fired Pizza

Dolan’s Bar-B-Que

FRIDAY NIGHT IN YOUR 40S

TANDOOR & TAP

Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

Vino 1910 Wine Bar

EVENT VENUE/ WEDDING VENUE

DUTCH FORD FARM

The Venues at Ogeechee Technical College

Chande Pines

PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY PARTY

BIRDIES AT THE MALL

Vino 1910 Wine Bar

Rolling Monkey

PLACE TO WATCH A GAME

WILD WINGS CAFÉ

Eagle Creek Brewing Company

Loco’s Grill & Pub

SPOT FOR LIVE MUSIC

EAGLE CREEK

BREWING COMPANY

Dolan’s Bar-B-Que

Tandoor & Tap

WORK EVENT SPACE

THE VENUES AT OGEECHEE

TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Sugar Magnolia Coffeehouse

Cool Beanz Espresso Bar

PLACE FOR TRIVIA

EAGLE CREEK

BREWING COMPANY

Loco’s Grill & Pub

Soyumi Asian Kitchen

WINE SELECTION

VINO 1910 WINE BAR

Grapevine at H’s

Two Guys Beverage & Tobacco

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ASSISTED LIVING/ RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

WILLOW POND SENIOR CARE

Southern Manor Senior Living

The Gardens Senior Living & Memory Care Community

CHIROPRACTOR

RYAN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Advanced Chiropractic

Southern Chiropractic & Wellness Center

COSMETIC OR PLASTIC SURGEON

DR. MEGHAN MCGOVERNRENEWAL MD

The Georgia Institute for Plastic Surgery

Dr. Marc Bisseck - Statesboro Plastic Surgery

DENTIST

RICKY LANE, DDS

Jarrett H. Walden, DMD

Anjali Patel, DMD

DENTAL HYGIENIST

JENNY HIGHMITHSOUTHERN FAMILY DENTAL

Karneisha Holloway

Gretchen Moore - Ricky Lane, DDS

DENTIST OFFICE

SOUTHERN FAMILY DENTAL GROUP

Lane Dentistry

Thomas Dental Center

DERMATOLOGY

GEORGIA DERMATOLOGY & SKIN CANCER CENTER

Georgia Skin & Cancer Clinic

Dr. Rebecca Campen

EYECARE CENTER/ DOCTOR/OPTOMETRIST

HORACE E. DEAL, ODVISION SOURCE

PROFESSIONAL EYE CARE

Brent Laircey Eye Services, PC

Dr. Thoma Kandl

HOME HEALTH SERVICES/HOSPICE

OGEECHEE AREA HOSPICE

IV Care Options of Georgia

Abide Home Care

HOSPITAL/EMERGENCY SERVICES

STATESBORO URGENT CARE

East Georgia Regional Medical Center

ExperCARE Urgent Care

LOCAL DRUG STORE/PHARMACY

MCCOOK’S PHARMACY

Forest Heights Pharmacy

Southern Pharmacy

MEDICAL AESTHETICS/ SKIN CARE

JUVE INTEGRATIVE

MEDICINE & WELLNESS

Pure Wellness & Spa

Refine Statesboro

MEDICAL PRACTICE/ OFFICE

OPTIM ORTHOPEDICS

Statesboro Family Practice

Bulloch Pediatrics

NURSE

NIKKI ELLOISON EVANSSOUTHERN MANOR

Charity Yates

Stephanie Lastinger

NURSE PRACTITIONER

ERICA LANIER - THRIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS

Tina Hathaway

Henry Brower, FNP-C - Statesboro Ugent Care

OB/GYN OFFICE

SOUTHERN OB/GYN

Ogeechee OB-GYN

East Georgia Women’s Center

PODIATRY PRACTICE

AFFINITY FOOT & ANDLE SPECIALISTS

Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC

ORAL SURGERY

EAST GEORGIA CENTER FOR ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY

Statesboro Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Ronald A. Tosto, DDS & Associates

ORTHODONTIST OFFICE

MAGINNIS ORTHODONTICS

Wall Orthodontics

Dr. Timothy Janowicz

PAIN MANAGEMENT

OPTIM PAIN MANAGEMENT

Michael D. Dykes, MDInterventional Pain Management

East Gerogia Pain Management

PEDIATRICIAN OFFICE

BULLOCH PEDIATRICS GROUP

Mama Doc Pediatrics

Kindercare Pediatrics of Georgia, LLC

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

OPTIM PHUSICAL THERAPY

Coastal Plain Therapy & Wellness

Southern Wellness & Rehab

PHYSICIAN

DR. JORDAN PAYNTER

Dr. W. Stephen Tenkersley

Dr. Ian Munger

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

SCOTT FOUCH, PA-CSTATESBORO URGENT CARE

Karri Ray, PA

Stacey Basque, PA-C

SPEECH THERAPY CENTER

THE THERAPY SPOT

Word of Mouth Therapy

Coastal Plain Therapy & Wellness

INFUSION BAR/ MEDI-SPA/VITAMIN THERAPY BAR

THE DRIPBAR

JUVE Integrative Medicine & Wellness

Pure Wellness & Spa

HOME, HOME SERVICES & FINANCE

APARTMENT COMMUNITY

GREENBRIER APARTMENTS

HENDLEY PROPERTIES

Cottage Row

Copper Beech

CARPET CLEANING

ALL STAR CARPET

SERVPRO of Statesboro

Citrusolution Carpet Cleaning

ELECTRICIAN

STARLING PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL

JD Heating & Air

Allen’s Electrical & Plumbing Service

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONBANK

CITIZENS BANK OF THE SOUTH

Queensborough Bank

Renasant Bank

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONCREDIT UNION

CORE CREDIT UNION

Geovista Federal Credit Union

Truist Bank

FINANCIAL PLANNER/ INVESTMENTS

JENNY DALEY, FSCPCONSOLIDATED PLANNING

Alex McGhee, Financial AdvisorEdward D. Jones

CFG Wealth Management, LLC

FLOOR COVERING STORE

STATESBORO FLOOR COVERING

Plank & Tile

Floors Outlet

GARDEN CENTER/ LANDSCAPING BECK4 PROPERTIES

Southern Scapes Nursery, Inc.

The Mad Potter

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY

JD HEATING & AIR

Ogeechee Heating & Air

Deal’s Heating & Air

HOME CONTRACTORS/ REPAIR/REMODELING

LAMAR CONSTRUCTION, INC.

Corey Reagin’s Renovations & Repairs

Deal Contracting, Inc.

HOME DÉCOR

THE WAREHOUSE

LA Waters Furniture & Mattress Center

Denmark’s Furniture Mart

HOME SECURITY

FEMAC SECURITY SOLUTIONS

Bulloch Solutions

Southeastern Alarm & Tech

HOMEBUILDER

HERITAGE HOMES OF GEORGIA

Lamar Construction, Inc.

JAB Construction

INTERIOR DESIGNER

GRAYMONT DESIGNS

Shannon Horton - Center State Homes, LLC

Presley Terry, Watersedge Design

MAID/JANITORIAL

FLUFFY CLEAN, LLC

SERVPRO of Statesboro

Maid in the Boro

MORTGAGE LENDER

SARA RUSSELLBULLOCH FIRST

Kelly Kahley - Renasant Bank

Rhonda Busby - HomeStar Financial

MOVING SERVICES

R & S PACKING & MOVING LLC

Rosie & Sone Moving Service, LLC

T & T Moving & Packing

PEST CONTROL

PEST MASTER SERVICES

Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control

Prestige Pest Control

PLUMBER

NEAL’S PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL

JD Heating & Air

Ark Plumbing, Inc.

POOL & SPA COMPANY

ASP

Blue Prism Pools

Pride Pools, Spas & Leisure Products, Inc.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

PAUL NEWMANSTATESBORO REAL ESTATE

Hendley Properties

ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team

REAL ESTATE AGENTRESIDENTIAL

PAT HIRSCH - ERA HIRSCH

REAL ESTATE TEAM

Grace Adams StewartColdwell Banker, Conner Realty

Jessica HerrmannGreat GA Realty

REAL ESTATE AGENTCOMMERCIAL

BUBBA HUNTRE/MAX EAGLE CREEK REALTY

Ronald Love - Platinum Landmark Realty

Nick Propps - Statesboro Properties

REAL ESTATE BROKER

EVERETT KENNEDYBERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES

Bubba Hunt - RE/MAX Eagle Creek Realty

Jessica Herrmann - Great GA Realty

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

GREAT GA REALTY

ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team

Platinum Properties & Land

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

WATERSEDGE DESIGN COMPANY

DPR Architecture

CKD Design Studio

SIDING/WINDOWS/ ROOFING COMPANY

COASTAL ELITE ROOFING

Chandler Roofing

American Roofing

STORATE FACILITY

ALL SAFE STORAGE

Storage Whales

Eagles Landing Storage - South Main Street

TELECOMMUNICATIONS/ INTERNET PROVIDER

BULLOCH SOLUTIONS

Vyve Broadband

Verizon

PEOPLE & PLACES

AREA ATTRACTION/ FAMILY FUN

SPLASH IN THE BORO WATER PARK & AQUATICS CENTER

Rolling Monkey

Birdies at the Mall

COACH

MARCI COCHRAN - SEB FLAG FOOTBALL COACH

Rip Rowan - GSU Defensive Line

Carter Collins - GSU Men’s Golf

FIRE/EMT/LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

NOEL BROWN - BULLOCH COUNTY SHERIFF

Capt. Marcus NesmithBulloch County Sheriff’s Office

Andrew Freeman - Paramedic Bulloch C. Emergency Services

LOCAL BAND/MUSICIAN

THE RIPLEY’S

Daniel Navarro

Miranda Winter

LOCAL PERSONALITY

TERRY HARVIN

Dal Canady

Brandon Poole

MAN OF THE YEAR

ROOSEVELT CONECHARACTER DEVELOPMENT CENTER & SCHOLARSHIPS

AJ Jetwani - Restauranteur

Benjy Thompson - Development Authority of Bulloch County

LOCAL PRODUCT

THE ARTSY GIRL EARRINGS

Cork’s Popcorn

Honey - Humble Bumble Bee Farm

LOCAL PLACE FOR A SELFIE

THE FLOWERGIRL

The Boro Art Park

Explore Your Selfie

COMMUNITY IN BULLOCH COUNTY STATESBORO

Brooklet

Nevils

NEW LOCAL BUSINESS

2022 - 2023

COASTAL ELITE ROOFING

JUVE Integrative Medicine & Wellness

Boro Bagel Company

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

FIXING THE BORO

Lift As You Grow

Statesboro Service League

LOCAL SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER

TYLER CALLOWAY

Dal Cannady

Tina Banks

WOMAN OF THE YEAR

GINNY LEE HENDLEY

Sally Scott - Lift As You Grow

Charanne Pittman, FNP

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

SHARMEQUA FRANKLINTHE ARTSY GIRL

AJ Jetwani - Restauranteur

Michael Blackmon

FRANK

THE RIPLEY’S, Most Fabulist Local Band/Musician

KIDS & EDUCATION

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

KIDOVATIONS EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

Kids World Learning Center

Art Adventures - Averitt Center for the Arts

COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY

GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Ogeechee Technical College

East Georgia State College

DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL

KIDS WORLD LEARNING CENTER

Brooklet United Methodist Preschool

Kidovations Educational Experience

MASCOT

GUSGEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Romo - Rolling Monkey

Bolt the Ibis - Tormenta

PRINCIPAL

DR. JULIE MIZELL - SEBHS

Keith Wright - SHS

Leisa Houghton - Bulloch Academy

TEACHER

TAYLOR MCBRIDEBROOKLET ELEMENTARY

Jordan Owens - SHS

Charlie Hopkins - Bulloch Academy

SERVICES

ACCOUNTANT

VIVIAN MYERS - DABBS, HICKMAN, HILL & CANNON, LLP

Christy Bowen, CPA

Russ Lanier, CPA

ACCOUNTING FIRM

LANIER, DEAL & PROCTOR, CPAS

Parrish & Bland, LLP

J.B. Kennedy & Associates, CPAs, LLC

ATTORNEY/INDIVIDUAL

PAIGE NAVARRO

Andrew Lavoie

Francys Johnson

CHURCH/PLACE OF WORSHIP

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

Connection Church

Believer’s Church

CUSTOMER SERVICE

ROLLING MONKEY

Jimmy Britt Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ran

From Bae

EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

SOUTHERN PRO STAFFING

Hire Dynamics

FLORIST THE FLORIST

The Flowergirl

Ashley’s Stems

FUNERAL HOME

JOINER ANDERSON

FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Craig R. Tremble Funeral Home

Matthew H. Lovett & Son’s Funeral Home, LLC

GRAPHIC/DIGITAL DESIGN

PIONEER DESIGN & MARKETING

UP Market Media

Davis Marketing Company

INSURANCE AGENT

BBWH INSURORS

Glenn/Davis Insurance Company

Larry Akins Insurance

LAW FIRM

STAFFORD LAW GROUP, LLC

Hall & Navarro

Davis, Bozeman, Johnson Law

MARKETING AGENCY

UP MARKET MEDIA

ME Marketing Services, LLC

Pioneer Design & Marketing

NON-PROFIT

LIFT AS YOU GROW

Fixing the Boro

The Camilla Foundation

PHOTOGRAPHER

SARAH DELOACH

PHOTOGRAPHY

A.R.T. Photography

Frank Fortune

PLACE TO BUY

FARM EQUIPMENT

SHEA TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT COMPANY

Tractor Supply Company

Blanchard Equipment

VETERINARIAN

DR. ESCHOL WOLFEUNIVERSITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Dr. Hunter Lamar - Gateway Animal Hospital

Dr. Michele Trammell - Vet to Pets Mobile

FUNERAL PLANNING

JOINER ANDERSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Deal Funeral Directors

Craig R. Tremble Funeral Home

SHOPPING

ANTIQUE STORE

CHARLIE’S FUNKY JUNK SHOP

Hodges Antiques

My Cousin Vinny’s Bargain Barn

APPLIANCE STORE

STATESBORO APPLIANCE CENTER

Lowe’s

Farmers Home Furniture

KID’S CLOTHING/ BOUTIQUE

MAX & MOLLY

CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

Walker Pharmacy Market District

Virginia Luxe

CONSIGNMENT STORE

3 BEAUS & A BELLE

Virginia Love

Material Girl Boutique

FURNITURE STORE

L.A. WATERS FURNITURE & MATTRESS CENTER

The Warehouse

iSave More Furniture & Mattress

GAME DAY APPAREL

SOUTHERN EXCHANGE COMPANY

University Store at Georgia Southern

The Sir Shop

GIFT STORE

THE COLLECTIVE & VINE

Statesboro Merchantile

The Copper Closet

JEWELRY STORE

BERNARD’S JEWELERS

The Artsy Girl

Bennett’s Fjine Jewelers

LADIES FASHION/ BOUTIQUE

BLEU BLUSH BOUTIQUE

Jaxe & Grace Boutique

Stella’s

LOCAL STORE ONLINE SHOPPING/APP

JAXE & GRACE BOUTIQUE

Virginia Luxe

Bleu Blush Boutique

MEN’S CLOTHING/ FORMAL WEAR

THE SIR SHOP

R.J. Pope Men’s & Ladies Apparel

Anderson’s General Store

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE DEALER (RV, BOAT, 4-WHEELER)

STATESBORO

POWERSPORTS, INC.

Statesboro Golf Carts

Custom Maring

SPORTING GOODS STORE

TC OUTDOORS

Bow Threaders

Hibbett Sports

BEVERAGE CENTER

BOOT LIQUORS

Clarke Beverages, II

Whiskey Business

TRENDIEST BOUTIQUE

VIRGINIA LUXE

Jaxe & Grace Boutique

Bleu Blush Boutique

CURVY SELECTION

VIRGINIA CURVY

Jaxe & Grace Boutique

Belk

PREFERRED COLLISION

Phillips Custom Works Paint & Collision Repair

Complete Car Care Serivce, Inc.

AUTO DEALERNEW

FRANKLIN TOYOTA

J.C. Lewis Ford

Jimmy Britt Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram

AUTO DEALERPREVIOUSLY

JARRARD

PRE-OWNED VEHICLES

Jimmy Britt Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ran

Womack

RICKS’

Able

Bart

BRIDE’S FULL NAME: Mikay Sands Wiggins (Mikay Anslee Sands full maiden name)

GROOM’S FULL NAME: William Davis Wiggins

WHERE YOU RESIDE: Currently reside in Augusta, Georgia

WHERE YOU BOTH WORK:

BRIDE: Pediatric oncology/hematology Registered Nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia

GROOM: University of Georgia Pharmacy Student (set to graduate in May 2025).

DATE OF WEDDING: March 4, 2023

WEDDING LOCATION/VENUE:

Ceremony was held at First United Methodist Church.

REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION/VENUE : The Belle House

MINISTER/OFFICIANT: Brandon Williams, Senior Pastor Connection Church

DRESS SHOP: Bridals by Gilbert in Perry, Georgia (My Maid of Honor’s family owns this shop, so it was super special to find my dress there).

DRESS DESIGNER: Pink Door Collection by Bridals by Gilbert

TUXEDO RENTAL/PURCHASE: RJ Pope

WEDDING COLORS: Blue and white (with some accents of green and gold)

WEDDING THEME: Traditional

STYLISTS:

HAIR: Jobeth Hendrix

MAKE-UP: Ansley Tatum

PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark Williams Studio

WEDDING CAKE: Sugared – Candice Pierce

GROOM’S CAKE: Honey’s Cheesecake

CATERERS:

REHEARSAL DINNER: Ricky Patrick

WEDDING: Honey’s Specialties

MUSICIANS:

CEREMONY: Georgia Southern String Quartet

RECEPTION: The Oxford Soul

FLORIST, DESIGNER & DECORATOR: Lanier Hayes (Urban Hayes Designs)

WEDDING DIRECTOR: Scott Marchbanks

RECEPTION LOCATION: Foxhall

HONEYMOON LOCATION: Excellence Resorts, Dominican Republic

PARENTS:

BRIDE: William (Dub) Sands & Beth Sands

GROOM: Chad & Nancy Wiggins

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT YOUR SPECIAL DAY?

“I think the main theme throughout our engagement season, rehearsal dinner, and wedding day was family. Davis and I are so lucky to have grown up with a large extended family that we are both very close with. I don’t think I realized just how many components of our rehearsal night and wedding day involved our family. From all of Davis’s aunts and close family friends helping to decorate and set-up the rehearsal dinner venue, and they decorated one of the cheesecakes with his favorite thing – duck hunting! The Rehearsal dinner is a memory I will never forget because of all the kind words and memories our families spoke about. Our wedding day was filled with family traditions and special items that we wore to remember those family members that were not able to be with us to celebrate our marriage. My parents surprised me with a necklace that was made from my late great-grandmother, Emily Keene’s, earrings, that I wore the day of the wedding. I also wore my late grandmother, Paulette Sands Neal’s, pearl necklace as a bracelet. The bracelet has been worn by many of my other cousins on their wedding day as well.

Davis wore his late grandad’s, Bruce Yawn, cuff links on our wedding day that was very special for him. Brandon Williams, the senior pastor at Connection Church Statesboro, who is also Davis’s uncle, performed our wedding ceremony. Davis’s two older cousins Bruce Yawn and Jackson Williams read scripture during our ceremony. At the reception a very special tradition in my family is the cutting of the cake with my late grandfather, W.D. Sands III’s, saber from his time spent at the Citadel as captain of the Summerall Guard. This saber has been used to cut cakes for all my other extended family’s weddings and it is a tradition I was very excited about continuing.

I was also very surprised when the band took a break from playing at our reception and all my aunts (Lisa Lee, Emily Cook, Barbara Stewart, Leslie Fordham, Lisa Rowe) and my mom (Beth Sands) got on the stage and performed a choreographed dance to the song “Dancing Queen” that is from one of my favorite movies that I used to watch with my mom! Davis’ Sigma Chi brothers, which includes most of his family members, got down on one knee and sang the Sigma Chi sweetheart song to me during our reception!” S

BRIDE’S FULL NAME: Anna Faith Freeman

GROOM’S FULL NAME: Winfield John Lee, III

WHERE YOU RESIDE: Statesboro, Georgia

WHERE YOU BOTH WORK:

BRIDE: Owner of Dish & Lily Boutique

GROOM: Vice President at Lee Hill & Johnston Insurors

DATE OF WEDDING: December 31, 2022

WEDDING LOCATION/VENUE: Statesboro First United Methodist Church.

REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION/VENUE: Forest Heights Country Club

MINISTER/OFFICIANT: Brandon Williams & Nicky McCreary

DRESS SHOP: J’Adore Bridal (Ceremony Gown) & Frills By Scott (Reception Dress)

DRESS DESIGNER: Justin Alexander for ceremony gown; Jovani for reception gown.

TUXEDO RENTAL/PURCHASE: RJ Pope

WEDDING COLORS: Black, White, Gold

WEDDING THEME: Ringing in the Lees!

NYE PARTY!

STYLISTS:

HAIR: Danielle Davis

MAKE-UP: Jo Beth Hendrix

PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark Williams Studio

WEDDING CAKE: Cathi Willett

GROOM’S CAKE: Gina Lane (Memory Lane Catering)

CATERERS:

REHEARSAL DINNER: Forest Heights Country Club

WEDDING: Memory Lane Catering

BAR CATERING: Soyumi Asian Restaurant

MUSICIANS:

CEREMONY: Tommy McMillian, Organist; Rachel Wiggins, Soloist

RECEPTION: Flashback The Party Band

FLORIST, DESIGNER & DECORATOR: Jim Roberts- Southern Traditions Florist

WEDDING DIRECTOR(S): Scott Marchbanks (Church); Adeana Mann (Reception)

RECEPTION LOCATION: The Belle House

HONEYMOON LOCATION: Sandals Resort in Barbados

PARENTS:

BRIDE: Tim and Kim Freeman

GROOM: John and Lisa Lee

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT YOUR SPECIAL DAY?

We had the most magical NYE wedding. The ceremony started at 7:00 p.m. with my bridemaids in black velvet and ostrich feather bridemaids’ dresses. (True NYE fashion!) I walked down the aisle to “Waltz of the Flower” which was special to me, as I have been a dancer my entire life.

As guests walked into the reception, Win and I had our Dancing with the Statesboro Stars costumes and Mirror Ball trophy on display as that is how we met in 2019.

We had a fabulous ice sculpture in the foyer of the Belle House. It was a large ice bowl that held champagne with a big “A&W” detail on the top.

Our guest favor was hand-painted guest portraits by Ashley Wren. This was a huge hit!

We had a 360 photobooth that guests were able to hop in to document their NYE. This was another big hit!

The Georgia Bulldogs were playing a big

game so of course we had tvs set up on the patio for the men to watch the big game.

Our signature cocktail was a margarita called “The Hook,” named after our precious English cocker spaniel.

As the New Year crept in guest were able to put on Happy New Year hats and feather headbands.

Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwiches and “A&W” root beer were served as a late night snack.

The band did a big countdown and we all got to ring in the New Year together! Win and I were showered with confetti as out guests shot off confetti cannons! Of course, we did a champagne toast as well.

As the night came to a close, we played “Auld Lang Syne” and guest lined up for us to depart.

Win’s only request of the entire wedding was that our guests did the “tomahawk chop” as we left our wedding! It was so fun getting into out getaway car with our friends and family “Choppin’”! S

MOST FABULOUS photographer

I love me a moist coconut cake with 7-minute frosting and I love congealed salads.”

– JENNY FOSS

FRANK FORTUNE

The Silver Jubilee

WRITTEN BY LAZAR BROWN OGLESBY

JOIN ME IN CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE OF STATESBORO MAGAZINE !

This publication has opened many doors and connected me with many new friends and fabulous people! I can only refer to this momentous occasion as The Silver Jubilee!

The first time I encountered the word, jubilee was on the cover of an old cookbook my mother stored in a kitchen cabinet with scores of others. The cover was off-white with a big blue diamond in the center. I remember combing through her collection of cookbooks with hungry eyes, soaking up ideas for future meals and recipes. More recently I associated the word jubilee with England’s

Queen Elizabeth. Celebrations honoring Her Highness included: Silver, Diamond, Gold, and Sapphire Jubilees. Queen Elizabeth celebrated the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne in, 2022, becoming the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee.

You don’t have to be a woman of royal stature to warrant a celebration. My friend, Jenny Foss, the editor of Statesboro Magazine is the “behind the scenes” queen of the publication. I have never seen Jenny when she was not perfectly “put together.” She always looks fabulous with her flawless hair/makeup and a brightly colored blouse adorned with one of her signature pins.

WILLETTE’S COCONUT CAKE

The following recipe was published in Southern Cooking Plus One Scoop of History by Lorine Olliff Hendricks. This is Jenny Ruth’s most fabulous birthday cake!

CAKE LAYERS INGREDIENTS:

1 c. Butter

2 c. Sugar

3 c. Cake Flour

4 Eggs

1 c. Milk

1 Tbsp. Baking Powder

1 tsp. Vanilla

2 tsp. Fresh Lemon Juice

PREPARATION:

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one-at-a-time and beat well. Sift flour once, and measure. Add baking powder to flour and sift three more times. Add flour and milk into the creamed butter and sugar alternately, beginning and ending with flour. Beat well after each addition. Grease, flour, and line three round 9-inch cake pans. Divide batter evenly in cake pans and bake at 375˚ F for 20 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes and then turn onto a cake rack for complete cooling.

FROSTING INGREDIENTS:

2 ¼ c. Granulated Sugar

½ c. Cold Water

3 Egg Whites

1 Tbsp. Light Corn Syrup

1 tsp. Vanilla

Dash of Salt

6-7 oz. Angel Flake® Coconut

PREPARATION:

In the top of a double boiler combine sugar, cold water, egg whites, syrup, and dash of salt. Beat 30 seconds on low speed of electric mixer. Place over boiling water (upper pan should not touch water).

Cook for about 7 minutes while beating constantly on high speed of electric mixer, or until frosting forms stiff peaks. Remove from heat: add vanilla. Beat 2-3 minutes or until spreading consistency.

Spread layers with frosting and sprinkle with coconut. Reserving plenty of frosting and coconut for the top and sides.

She is a true journalist asking questions at just the right time and waiting with thoughtful patience for a response. She makes me want to stand up straighter and dig a little deeper. I think of her as a role model and mentor. Jenny has lifted me up many times with her words of encouragement and made me feel like an equal. Her friendship is more valuable than platinum!

The festivities cannot commence without refreshments. When asked her favorite foods or recipes Jenny quickly replied, “I love me a moist coconut cake with 7-minute frosting and I love congealed salads.” A woman after my own heart! Jenny and I are often guests at mutual friend, Virginia Ann Franklin Waters’ luncheons. I covet an invite to lunch at “The Hideaway.” The table is always well appointed with seasonal decor and family heirlooms. My friends don’t realize what a treat it is for me to enjoy a meal I had no part in preparing!! I most excitedly anticipate the cranberry congealed salad and am reminded of the various congealed salads prepared by my grandmother and her sister for family gatherings. I miss those days and the special dishes that are now absent from our table as times change.

On a rainy, Sunday afternoon, I pulled many of my favorite regional cookbooks from the shelves. I spread the books out on the counter and did a deep dive into local history pertaining to food and otherwise. These books are a literal encyclopedia of regional, Southern cuisine. Steeped in history, these books cover decades of how people lived, entertained, and celebrated. As well as the foods and ingredients that shaped their palettes. I also googled Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee and was able to find actual menus from royal events such as birthdays and coronations. It is surprisingly easy to combine Southern staples with royal fare.

I envisioned the quintessential Southern luncheon fit for a queen and intentionally chose recipes crafted by local matriarchs. “Poulet Reine Elizabeth” also known as Coronation Chicken was created by Le Cordon Bleu London to be served at the Queen’s coronation luncheon in 1953. This dish has a striking resemblance to the baked chicken salad served at many a southern ladies’ luncheons. I worked diligently to integrate our locally loved and time-tested recipes with those that graced the menus of Her Highness’ grandest life events. S

BAKED CHICKEN SALAD

The following recipe was published in In the Pink, a collection of recipes from the Camellia Garden Club of Statesboro. Mrs. Kathy Deloach contributed this recipe. I love this cookbook! Many of these ladies are near and dear to my heart. Some of the first events I catered as a young chef were for these ladies. I am thankful for their influence on my career and the many friendships that grew from this group.

INGREDIENTS:

4 c. cooked Chicken (cut up)

2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice

⅔ c. chopped Toasted Almonds

4 c. Hard Cooked Eggs (sliced)

¾ c. Mayonnaise

1 tsp. Salt

½ tsp. Accent

2 c. Celery (chopped)

1 tsp. Onion (chopped fine)

2 Pimento, cut fine

1 c. Cheese (grated)

1 ½ c Potato Chips (crushed)

Sliced Almonds

PREPARATION:

Combine all ingredients except cheese, potato chips, and almonds. Place in an oblong Pyrex® casserole dish. Top with cheese, potato chips, and almonds. Allow to stand in the refrigerator overnight. When ready, remove from the refrigerator and bake for 20-25 minutes at 400˚.

CHERRY CONGEALED

SALAD & DRESSING

The following recipe was published in A Treasure of Bulloch County Recipes compiled by Bulloch Academy Parent Teacher League 1976. Mrs. James Eli (Sue) Hodges contributed the original recipe. The recipe is a nod to classic Cherries Jubilee served at Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897. Add a splash of brandy to the dressing recipe for a royal flair!

INGREDIENTS:

Congealed Salad:

1 3 oz. box Cherry Jell-o®

1 envelope Plain Gelatin

¾ c. Sugar

¼ c. Cold Water

1 16 oz. can Sour Pitted Cherries

1 large can Crushed Pineapple

2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice

2 Tbsp. Lemon Bits

¼ tsp. Almond Flavoring

Dressing:

1 8 oz. carton Sour Cream

½ c. XXXX Sugar (powdered sugar)

½ c. Mayonnaise

¾ c. Chopped Nuts

PREPARATION:

Combine cherry Jell-o® and sugar. Measure liquid from drained fruits and add enough water to equal 3 cups. Add this to Jell-o® and sugar. Heat to boiling. Dissolve plain gelatin in cold water. Add to hot liquid. Also, add lemon juice, lemon bits, and almond flavoring. Put in refrigerator until syrupy. Then add cherries and pineapple. Pour into individual molds and congeal in refrigerator. Unmold salads when set. Combine dressing ingredients and spoon over salads. Serves 12-14.

Early Blooming Bulbs & Sewing Seeds

WRITTEN BY VIRGINIA ANNE WATERS

ILOVE TULIPS. ACTUALLY, I LOVE ALL FLOWERS THAT START OUT AS A BULB. WE ARE NOT IN A REGION THAT GROWS THESE STATELY ANNUALS

very well. They really need some cold weather to bloom. I occasionally invest a little money and plant a few in planters and overplant with pansies or sweet William. I would love to go to Holland during the tulip festival just once! Let’s get a group of Statesboro Magazine readers together for a road trip. Seeing all those different varieties and colors of tulips blooming in rows upon rows would be an enchanting experience. Tulips aren’t only known for their beauty and variety, however! Did you know that these bulbs were once traded on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange?

In 1636, Dutch society went crazy over exotic tulips. As prices rose, people got swept up in a speculative fever, spending a year’s salary on rare bulbs in hopes of reselling them for a profit. This phenomenon was dubbed “Tulip Mania.” It involved prospectors from all walks of life: nobles, farmers, mechanics, sea-men, footmen, maid-servants, even chimney-sweeps, dabbled in tulips. There were stories of huge fortunes lost and distraught people drowning themselves in canals. The tulip buyers’ greatest misconception was believing trading in tulips would be their ticket into Dutch high society.

In the late 16th-century, the Dutch gained their independence from Spain and merchants grew rich through the Dutch East India Company. The Dutch became fascinated with rare tulips, bulbs that produced striped and speckled flowers. They were first bought as showy display flowers. Soon these tulips were traded as part of a market of their own. In 1636, the demand for the tulip trade was so large that they were sold on the Stock Exchange in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and in Haarlem. Companies were set up to sell just tulips as the desire for this commodity grew. The most prized bulbs were sold for 5,000 guilders, the going rate for a nice house in 1637!

As happens when the value far exceeds the practical use of any commodity or product, the bubble created by those inflated prices eventually burst. The collapse of this market occurred because people purchased bulbs on credit. When prices started to drop, people were forced to sell their bulbs at any price and many were bankrupted in the process. Tulips were fashionable and people sometimes paid ridiculous amounts to keep up with the latest trends. It was a period of irrational exuberance. People bought tulips simply because they were expensive!

If you missed the period for bulb planting this year, enjoy the early spring ones that are blooming now and start planning for next spring.

WINTER SOWING

Let’s move on to another winter gardening project called winter sowing. Many prized perennials need cold weather and wet conditions to germinate. Favorites of mine are: hollyhock, Sweet William, lavender, bachelor buttons, coreopsis, larkspur, and delphinium.

The main object needed for winter sowing is a plastic gallon milk jug. This is a great repurposing project as well.

1. YOU SIMPLY CUT ONE-GALLON JUGS IN HALF BELOW THE HANDLE SO THE BOTTOM BECOMES A TRAY.

2. ADD DRAINAGE HOLES

3. ADD 3 INCHES OF POTTING SOIL.

4. MOISTEN THE SOIL SO THAT IT WILL CLUMP IN YOUR HAND.

5. SOW SEEDS ONTO THIS MIXTURE.

6. COVER THE “SEED TRAY” WITH THE TOP HALF AND TAPE TOGETHER.

7. LEAVE THE CAP OFF SO THAT RAIN CAN ENTER THE JUG. IF IT DOESN’T RAIN YOU WILL NEED TO KEEP THE SEEDS MOIST TO GERMINATE.

8. USE A PERMANENT MARKER TO LABEL THE JUG.

9. PUT THE JUGS OUTSIDE IN THE SUNSHINE.

(I PUT MINE NEAR A WATER HOSE IN CASE MOTHER NATURE DOESN’T SUPPLY THE RAIN!)

10. OPEN THE TOPS AS THE WEATHER GETS WARMER.

What’s great about winter sowing is that you don’t waste time or money trying to grow lanky seedlings on windowsills. You’ll have strong, sturdy starts, and it’s really easy because nature does most of the work! Be sure to use seeds that are labeled as “cold hardy” or “frost resistant.” When in doubt, Google it. The main benefit of winter sowing to me is that it creates strong plants that don’t need to be slowly acclimated to the outside. The seedlings have spent their entire lives outside and are completely used to the elements.

I put out a plea for milk jugs on Facebook and immediately had more than I needed. I have been collecting my seeds from different sources such as colorful seed catalogs, dollar stores, and don’t forget the State of Georgia Farmers Market Bulletin. It is a great source for so many agricultural things. This method of winter sowing may not be the most aesthetically pleasing way to start seeds, but it’s certainly the easiest and cheapest way. It’s the most accessible way too, considering the fact that most people don’t have a green house or even grow lights. I love the fact that I can reuse milk jugs for this project, instead of having to buy even more seed-starting trays and spending even more money. Gardening can be an expensive hobby, so it’s always nice when you can reuse something you already have.

All you need for winter sowing is a jug, potting soil, seeds and a sunny spot outdoors and you’re good to go! Happy gardening to you. Spring is here! S

Doubt Your Doubts

WRITTEN BY REV. DR. JOHN WATERS

NOT LONG AGO I STOOD BESIDE THE HOSPITAL BED OF A SERIOUSLY ILL MAN, TRYING TO OFFER WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND hope. His family feared that death lingered nearby, so I tried to offer the soothing words of comfort that pastors seem to conjure up for such occasions. But not long into the conversation, I realized that the greatest fear in the room was not about his death but about his doubt. The elderly man knew that his death was coming, but what unsettled him was his uncertainty about what happened after death. I tried to explain the simplicity of faith, and that the promises of God are sure and certain. In between gasps for air, he looked at me and said, “How do you know this is true?”

The man wasn’t searching for a way to prolong his life. Both he and his family knew that death was coming. Instead, he was searching for a way to believe. What frightened him was doubt, not death.

I wish I could tell you that he experienced a death-bed conversion that day, but he did not. My heart still weeps today, remembering this

As birds fly over everybody’s head, so doubts fly around all good men’s minds.”

– CHARLES SPURGEON

dying man and the doubts that haunted him. People often talk about the strange sensation when death “lingers in the air” near a loved one, but even more devastating is when doubt lingers nearby too.

Charles Spurgeon, the great British preacher from the late 1800s, said: “As birds fly over everybody’s head, so doubts fly around all good men’s minds.” Even one of the world’s greatest, most gifted preachers acknowledged that doubt and unbelief are common in many people’s lives, presumably even in his own.

A quick look around today’s world clearly indicates that not much has changed. Doubt and unbelief are as commonplace today as they have been at any time. The existence of God is debated; the truths are Scripture are rejected, and the claims of the gospel are not believed. Church pews and Sunday School classrooms are filled with members who quietly and desperately doubt their salvation, wondering if they will ever be completely sure of their faith.

Have you ever doubted? Do you truly believe the claims of Christ as found in the Bible? Many people sitting in churches each Sunday know they are supposed to believe, but an honest evaluation of their heart tells them that they really don’t. Others will readily admit that they don’t believe, while some go back and forth on an endless seesaw of believing and doubting, of doubting and believing.

Whenever we find ourselves struggling with whether to believe, God has a way of stirring in our hearts, asking us to believe the unbelievable. He does not prove His existence with the disciplines of science, and He rarely puts a sign in the sky that is easily seen. Instead, He breaks into our lives, interrupting our season of doubt, asking us to take Him at His Word. Even though we don’t see it, God asks us to believe it.

Isn’t that what happened to Thomas? As one of the disciples, Thomas had traveled and worked with Jesus during His earthly ministry. He witnessed the miracles from Jesus’ hands, and he even knew of the resurrection. Thomas’ problem, however, was that he was absent from the group when Jesus appeared to the other disciples following His resurrection.

As Thomas hears the story that Jesus is alive and that the tomb is empty, he is faced with a dilemma. He wants to believe, but he’s not certain if he truly can believe. He questions; he hesitates, and he doubts. In a flash, he receives a nickname that will follow him for centuries: “Doubting Thomas.”

But would you or I have fared any better? When the circumstances of life don’t make sense, isn’t it difficult to believe? When science and technology take away the mysteries of life, isn’t it difficult not to waver? When your intellect keeps building walls that prevent you from accepting the claims of Scripture, do you morph into a modern-day Doubting Thomas?

I suppose God is not nearly as threatened with our doubt as we are. He finds us in our doubt, reminds us of His presence while reassuring us with His promises. He invites us to trust His heart and to believe His word. By His grace, we are asked to doubt our doubts and believe our beliefs. S

And these moments passed my way…

WRITTEN BY RIC MANDES

HAVING WORKED CLOSELY WITH SEVEN GSU PRESIDENTS DURING MY 28 YEARS AT SOUTHERN, THERE WERE MANY SPECIAL moments to come my way.

That day in l969, when Chris Schenkel called and said he would be landing at the local airport for the occasion when he would hand Jody Stubbs the first Schenkel Trophy as Outstanding High School Golfer of the Year.

The growth of academic divisions into schools under the tutelage of President John Eidson, and later into colleges.

And then in l981, Dale Wesley Lick’s allowing me to be a part of the GREAT ONE, Erskine Russell’s coming to town and making history.

Other moments of significance which came my way were quieter.

No news bulletins. They just took place.

In 1976, Debbie Harper, one of my student assistants in photography appeared at my office door with “Ric, I would like you to meet one of my best friends from back home in Evans, Georgia. He sure can take good pictures and I was wondering if he could help me and Steve (Ellwood - the student photo leader at that time)?”

“Anything for you Deb,” was my reply.

With that I walked around the desk and shook the hand of Frank Fortune.

He would stay with us two years before transferring to UGA for a degree in Journalism. During those days in Bulldog town, he shot pics for my former public relations director, Claude Felton.

In 1981, Erk came to us TO DO RIGHT.

In 1981, I hired Frank Fortune TO DO RIGHT, TOO.

Both Frank and Erk shared the same attitude about life: walk the sidelines and let others get the glory for the action.

Frank Fortune is a giver. He never says no. He lives each day and night of his professional life looking through the lens waiting for that one life’s moment he is seeking to make its move. As a composer at the keyboard, the conductor with the baton; the artist at the easel, poised and waiting for the stroke, the note, the sound. That’s Fortune.

That is why two years ago he was awarded the GOLD MEDAL for being named the Photographer of the Year among all College and Universities nationwide. He flew to Chicago for the banquet and was later asked to return, not once, but twice, to conduct week long workshops on How to Wait for the Moment.

My only order that spring day in 1981 to Frank was, “Stay on the move. Your clock is 24/7 if you are to capture the life of the student.”

Many watched with envy as Fortune “came and went as he pleased.”

Those who held that narrow view of this artist missed the point. Fortune was known for staying up all night in the darkroom looking for the perfect negative; for running a shoot until the party being shot was grinding their teeth.

But then, that was Fortune. Yeah, his office was always a mess. Yeah, he often misplaced his car keys or his light meter. But that’s an artist is it not? Cannot one see Michelangelo looking for his hammer (I just had the darn thing) while the block of marble stands waiting to become David

I’ve seen Frank cry three times: when he lost his 47-year-old Dad, and at the births of his son and daughter with his beautiful wife, Mandy.

I’ve seen him angry but once. When after he gave it all he had, his first marriage failed. Tears and anger came from a heart that pounds to make each and every moment he has anything to do with…right.

And finally, he was the epitome of TOWN/GOWN; an activity which has gone to earth. The presidents Frank served saluted his work; counted on moments captured – Erk holding the football, Nick Henry unveiling the new UNIVERSITY SIGN, or maybe a sneak shot of a student in the Henderson Library reading, involved in that precious journey at Southern, of growth.

His work was, and still is, remarkable. Thousands of prints taken by Frank behold the thirty years of his capturing the movement; the movement of students as challenge and change came their way. His secret? Simple.

He was not putting away the equipment until he knew for sure that folks coming upon his work years or decades later would get THE FEELING.

Ah, that’s it. THE FEELING.

To illustrate his devotion to reaching for the feeling, from the early eighties to his retirement this past March, go with me to the banquet scene in the Russell banquet hall. Frank has been asked to let Athletic Director Bucky Wagner and President Nick Henry have a look-see at the video to be shown that evening showing Erk saying goodbye.

Fortune hits the switch and here comes the action with background music of The Wind Beneath my Wings. When it was over, and I was there to witness, there were tears from old tough guy Wagner.

Get the message? Fortune, a high school kid in l976, would become the silent one on the sidelines for Presidents Pope Duncan, Nick Quick, Dale Lick, Harry Carter and Nick Henry, whose accolades for his work always came in the form of a question: “Is Frank here? Can’t start without him.”

(Originally published in Statesboro Magazine, May/June 2009). S

LEADERSHIP BULLOCH ALUMNI OF THE YEAR

Jeremy Wilburn

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Pioneer Design & Marketing

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Ray Hendley

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

The Sack Company

MRS. THERESA DIANE MORRIS AKINS

02.11.24

MRS. BEVERLY KAY GOODMAN ALDERMAN

12.05.23

MR. TONY LEE ALLEN

12.24.23

MS. MARY ELIZABETH BRANNEN ANDERSON

12.02.23

MS. LINDA GAIL ANDERSON

12.28.23

MR. JAMES "DERRELL" ANDERSON, SR.

02.12.24

MR. HOLLIS RENFRED BEASLEY

12.16.23

MRS. WANDA L. BOND

12.17.23

MR. SAMUEL SAMP BONNETTE

01.30.24

MR. GEORGE KENNETH BRANNEN

12.03.23

MR. BRIAN JOHN BREE

01.19.24

MR. ROGER DALE BUNCH

12.26.23

MRS. BETTY GRACE THOMPSON BURCH

12.13.23

REV. RALEIGH CAIL, JR.

12.10.23

MR. BILLY DEAN CANNADY

01.19.24

MR. GEORGE F. CARTER, III

01.18.24

MR. ERNEST C. "MAX" CARTER, JR.

12.27.23

MRS. VENDORA LANIER COBB

02.05.24

MR. RICHARD PERRY COBB, JR.

02.05.24

MR. JAMES L. "JIMMY" COLEMAN

01.30.24

MR. THOMAS JACKSON "TOM" COLLINS

01.25.24

MR. N. EARL COOK

01.07.24

MR. RUFUS EARL DABBS, SR.

12.13.23

MR. BRIAN LEE DANIEL

01.07.24

MR. JERRY ROBERT DARSEY, SR.

01.24.24

MR. CHARLES "PAT" DAVIS

01.30.24

MR. ARNOLD JONES DEAL

12.22.23

MRS. GAIL HEATH DEAL

12.23.23

MR. MICHAEL DONOVAN DICKERSON

02.10.24

MS. SANDRA K. DOWD

12.10.23

MS. CAROLYN PATRICIA DRIGGERS

02.13.24

MS. SHARON FIKE DUNAWAY

01.18.24

MASTER JORDAN MYLES ELLISON

12.01.23

MS. VARETA RIGDON GIRARDEAU

01.15.24

MS. IRMOGENE GLOVER 12.28.23

MR. WILLIAM CRAIG "BILL" GRIFFIN, SR. 12.31.23

MS. CHERYL ANN WALKER GRIMES 01.06.24

MR. ROBERT GLEN HALL

12.30.23

MR. JACOB EXUM HILLIS 01.12.24

MS. SYLVIA ANN ZETTEROWER HODGES

12.04.23

MR. MARC DANIEL HODGES, SR. 01.15.24

MS. ELOISE DAVIS HUGHES

01.25.24

MR. DANIEL "MARK" HUNNICUTT 01.16.24

MS. CAROL FRANCIS HURLESS-WILLIAMS

01.11.24

MR. CHARLES EDWARD ILER, SR. 01.17.24

MR. HENRY JONES

01.19.24

MR. LARRY DARNELL JONES 12.01.23

MR. DAVID "ALAN" KNIGHT 12.19.23

MR. JOHN B. LANIER 01.02.24

MRS. EVELYN YOUNG LEE 01.31.24

MR. ARTHUR JAMES "JIM" LIVINGSTON, JR. 01.21.24

MR. JEFFREY LYNN MARLOW

01.12.24

MR. RAYMOND FOSTER MCCUBBINS 2.03.24

MRS. JOYCE B. MCCULLOUGH 01.02.24

MR. HUNTER JAMES MCCUMBER

12.09.23

MS. ESTHER MAE MELVIN

01.20.24

MS. IDA WEBB MILEY

01.02.24

MR. IVY C. MILLER, JR. 01.14.24

MRS. KAYE HARTSFIELD MILLER, JR. 12.10.23

MS. CHARLOTTE BLITCH MINTER 12.20.23

MR. MICHALE LANNIS MURPHY

01.22.24

MR. INMAN P. NESMITH

01.18.24

MRS. MARTHA J. OWENS-WILLIAMS

12.17.23

MRS. MARGATENE "MARGIE" HOLLAND PEVEY-SHUMAN

02.07.24

MR. JESSE FENTON POWELL

02.10.24

MR. WILLIAM HOWARD "BUBBA" PROSSER

01.13.24

MS. LEOTA QUALLS

02.05.24

MS. BETTY GENE TAYLOR RICE 12.02.23

MS. LINDA ANN HILL ROBINSON 01.22.24

MR. RONALD RUSHING 02.08.24

MR. MICHAEL ROBERT "MIKE" SANDERS

12.26.23

MS. MARGARET CLEMENTS SELLERS 12.21.23

MR. BERNICE EMMITT "BUCK" SHEFFIELD 01.28.24

MRS. EARLETTE B. SHIPES 02.08.24

MS. MILDRED SIMMONS 12.21.23

MR. JOHN WILLIAM SMITH 12.18.23

MS. ELEANOR ANN GILMORE SPURGEON

12.09.23

MR. JOHN MARCUS STEVENS, SR. 02.14.24

MRS. BONNIE JOHNSON STEWART 02.07.24

MRS. WILLIE PEARL TANNER 01.27.24

MR. JOHN RODNEY TOWNSEND, SR. 02.09.24

MR. REMER TYSON

12.27.23

MR. GEORGE VALLIN 01.06.24

MR. DWIGHT HUONG VAN TASSELL 01.11.24

MR. DAVID H. WILLIAMS 02.13.24

MR. CHARLES EDWARD WILLIAMS 01.26.24

MS. DEBRA KEARNEY WILLIAMS 01.07.24

MR. JOHN H. WISE, JR. 12.26.23

MRS. MARGARET WATERS PYE WOODS

12.12.23