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Aug 16 - Sep 5 VOLUME 2
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Aug 16 - Sep 5 VOLUME 2 Issue No.
The Townie Celebrates One Year in Print
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Whispers.
Chums Bunny Byrne This week’s Chums is about our editrix-in-chief who, a year ago, up and decided she was going to turn a blog into a print publication and well…did it. She carved herself a niche in the local news scene with the Townie’s particular focus on people, businesses and events. If you’ve ever seen a blonde bob on girl-like features headed down Broad Street, you’ve seen Bunny, whose love for journalism and Thomasville made this paper. - Jennifer W.
PHP is mentioned in this month’s Southern Living Magazine... This little venture of ours really started on November of 2009. What was just a simple want, a desire voiced by a group of local business women turned into a blog overnight. That blog gained traction and a following, and I spent 3 years building it into a point of connection between Townies, retailers, organizations and the like. As a non-native Thomasvillian, it was a perfect way for me to discover and become involved in my new hometown, and to connect with others seeking to do the same. I’ve lived several places, and this is the only one that feels like home. One year ago, some of the same businesswomen pushed me to think in a new direction - what if the blog moved to print? At a time when people were moving away from print publications, and newspapers and magazines were folding every day, it seemed crazy. But there was a need to be filled, and since my degree and experience are in print journalism, I thought it was worth a try. Armed with the knowledge that it’s ok to fail--in Thomasville it really is--I moved forward. A dear and talented friend, Leslie Ballenger of Ballenger Design, agreed to jump into the unknown with me and we started publishing every first and third Friday on a legal sheet of copy paper. We had three sponsors committed to the paper long-term, which was just enough to print it. We were having a blast collecting stories and building and connecting. The Townie was no longer just me, writing in the dark hours and
wondering if someone was reading; it was now a paper, a tangible thing, and other people were a part of it. Fast forward one year and our anniversary issue is 8 times bigger than where we started. We have staff: a team of writers, distributors and an ad specialist. We now have 16 long-term sponsors who put their hardearned dollars where their hearts are in helping to keep the Townie free for readers. Readers send us tips, encouragement and connect with us on Facebook. Our readers are the reason we write, pound the pavement, sniff out the scoops, get the whispers, slog through event notices, stay up late editing, try new menus and work behind the scenes with business owners. I’m not the Townie anymore; we all are. My fellow Townies, this is all for you. What started as my way of learning about Thomasville has become our way of bringing you the best it has to offer. And isn’t that just so very Thomasville--to turn something you love into an act of love done for others? We love this Thomasville life, and we want you to, as well. To Thomasville! XOXO - Bunny Byrne, Creator + Editor
Was there an exact moment when you realized that your endeavor was a success? Hmm… I suppose not losing money on it is all I ever asked of it. Aside from that, I’m not sure what you would define as success, but it’s fun/funny when “strangers” recognize me. I’m a behind-the-scenes person by nature, so it’s a scary kind of fun.
TCA has a new artist in residence... There’s a new theater group in town…see article below...
What sets the Townie apart from other area publications? We’re free and we’re fun, need I say more?
New menus at Grassroots, Liam’s and Bacchus…
What is your favorite part of the job? The connection aspect of the whole thing. I love connecting with locals, business owners and organizations, finding out what makes them wonderful, and then connecting other people to that wonderfulness.
The newest magazine in the Ville has a name and a look…stay tuned for the reveal...
What do you see in the future for the Townie? It may not look this way, but it’s a seat of the pants kind of operation. When I released ad dates until the end of the year, back in March, I got a little frightened. I’ve only ever had one real job, and here I am giving myself one. So, the answer to your question is, whatever strikes my fancy. We took a chance on our traveling Townie Toast and the Forgotten Coast ebook and those were received really well. We’ve even done some invite-only sales and a Brunch and Barter a few years ago. They were great one-offs, so maybe more of that.
Could there be a healthy-food Food Truck in the Ville’s future?
What does Bunny Byrne enjoy when completely unplugged from the Townie? Riding, reading, writing, cooking. Maybe cooking should be first.
Psst...do you have a whisper? Got a tip for the Townie or a story idea? We’re all ears! yourtownie@gmail.com
Selling the Bookshelf: She Said/She Said
Thomasville Townie’s
One Year in Print Party Come meet the writers, sponsors and fellow Townies!
Now that the deal is a go, we wanted to get the low-down on the hows and whys of the Bookshelf’s change of ownership. Rest assured, your favorite bookshop is alive and well and in good hands. - Bunny B.
Bacchus Wine Bar Thursday, August 15, 6-8 PM
BB: How did the two of you meet?
Scott was swamped in his businesses and we have another baby on the way. Annie had been our manager in the Tallahassee store for almost a year and had gone to market with me a couple of times so I knew if she was interested in a bit of a life change, she would be a great candidate to take over. So we thought it would be a good time to talk about selling or closing the Tallahassee store and recruiting her up to Thomasville.
KC: Annie wrote me this beautiful email when she heard we were opening a store in Tallahassee to express interest in a career change. I read her blog and immediately thought she had the interests and style to be a really good bookseller and retailer. It didn’t hurt that several of the books she mentioned in her email are some of my favorites. When we first met for coffee, she was one of those quiet but thoughtful people that I love to talk to in bookstores.
Red Hills Players Present Debut Production The newly formed Red Hills Players, a regional theatre group who recently partnered with Thomasville Center for the Arts, will stage their debut performance of Jane Eyre: The Musical on Saturday, August 17th, at 7PM on the main stage at the Center for the Arts. The troupe, consisting of theatre professionals from across the region, was formed not only out of a love for the stage, but with the intention of giving back to the community’s youth programs so that any child who dreams of being an actor may have the opportunity; many members of the Red Hills Players grew up on stages in Thomasville and the surrounding area, and are adamant about the importance of youth theatre programs for aspiring actors.
One Book Coming Soon
The group is dedicated to the concept of community, not only in its intention to give back to the town, but in the staging of each production; proceeds from Jane Eyre: The Musical will be split and donated to Thomasville on Stage and Company’s Ron Shank Endowment fund—which was formed to serve the dayto-day needs of the historic storefront theater and its productions—and to youth programs at Thomasville Center for the Arts. The public is encouraged to attend two dress rehearsals on the 15th and 16th, where admission is free but donations are welcome. Tickets to the debut show on the 17th are $10 for all ages and can be purchased at the Center’s website: www.thomasvillearts.org or by calling (229) 226-0588. —Jennifer W.
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AJ: I met Katie during her search for a new manager for the Tallahassee branch of The Bookshelf. I had long loved visiting the store on Saturdays spent in Thomasville, and when I heard they were opening a location in Tallahassee, I couldn’t believe it. I was thrilled as a customer, but also as someone who has long dreamed of running a bookstore. I sent Katie a gushing email expressing my love for the store and my childhood dream of becoming the next Kathleen Kelly. Luckily, she didn’t think I was crazy, and we met a year ago to discuss the possibility of me quitting my corporate job and joining The Bookshelf staff. It’s by far the riskiest (maybe the most vulnerable) thing I’ve ever done, and I don’t regret it, not even a little bit.
AJ: I loved the Tallahassee store and could have happily stayed there -- Tallahassee is my hometown -- but it wasn’t meant to be. Katie decided to focus her efforts in Thomasville, and I respected that, and I wanted to help her in any way I could. When she mentioned selling the Thomasville store, though, my heart broke that someone might buy it and not love it the way Katie so obviously does. Our wheels began turning to see how we could join forces and continue The Bookshelf’s legacy in Thomasville. I never dreamed my stint as a bookstore manager would so quickly become an opportunity for ownership, and I feel like. I’m constantly taking leaps of faith I never had to take at my desk job, but Katie and Scott’s passion for the community and for the store itself make me hopeful I can do this. I want to build on the foundation they so lovingly set.
BB: What started you talking about buying/selling?
BB: How did you know Annie was a good fit for store owner?
KC: Our family had way too much going on-- my husband
.. continued page 3
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t h e s e : Just steps from Downtown, with homes from $100,000. Townies Welcome.
2018 E. Pinetree Blvd. Thomasville, Georgia 229-228-6702 Mon-Fri 10am-7pm l Sat 10am-7pm l Sun 1pm-5pm
www.AshleyFurnitureHomeStore.com
Log on to:
www.facebook.com/VictoriaParkThomasville
to advertise, contact yourtownie@gmail.com.
Page No.
2 FIND US ONLINE AT THOMASVILLETOWNIE.COM
August 16 - September 5
Meet the Staff
Our Staff Editor + Publisher Bunny Byrne Contributing Writers Sarah Manwaring Laura Floyd Jon Towns Rebekah Giambroni Jennifer Westfield Comic Artist Laura Floyd Distribution Jon Towns Blogging Bunny Byrne Website Maintenance Jon Towns Printed by the Bainbridge Post Searchlight To contact staff members, please email yourtownie@gmail.com
---“The Townie is my paper, my newsy go-to. I look forward to the Townie as much as a glass of cold sweet tea. A lot.” - Dara B. of Dara Barwick Consulting---
Flaunt 2013 Last year, on the first Friday evening in September, the clocks struck 5:30, and models in black garbage bags stamped with “Upcycle Downtown” came streaming down Broad Street from all directions to an opening party where one by one, they unveiled dresses made entirely from recycled materials made by dozens of artists commissioned by Thomasville Center for the Arts. The trees on Broad Street had been yarn-bombed, making downtown look something akin to Seussville, and FLAUNT 2012: Upcycle Downtown was a tremendously successful event, centered around the importance of recycling. This year, Thomasville Center for the Arts, The Office of Main Street and Tourism, and the Thomas County Public Library System are gearing up for what promises to be one of Thomasville’s largest town-wide projects, bringing cutting-edge art trends and a One Book project together in the name of literacy awareness. Work for FLAUNT 2013: It’s About Time! has begun on life-size paper mache figures, window installations, and book stacks that will serve as canvases for over a dozen plein air painters who will compete on the historic bricks of downtown for unprecedented cash prizes and more. Continued on page 4... Cottage or Carriage House Wanted for December 15 - March 15
Professional couple with two small, well behaved pets seeks furnished home in town.
Please email specifics to: twsweezey@aol.com
Name: Bunny Byrne How did you come to live in/work in/near the Ville? We moved here for my husband’s work, and started drinking the Tville {Palmer flavored} KoolAid about a year after we arrived. Favorite Tville hang out? I like to lurk in the shadow of the umbrellas outside Liam’s for lunch and brunch. If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be? Warren Avenue. It’s lined with lovely historic homes, there’s a real sense of neighborhood pride and it’s a great rags-to-riches story. What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie? That it is what we make it. It can be a true reflection of our community, or something that we strive for. I love, and have always loved, the sense that one has about Thomasville: that everything is possible, one only needs to try. What do you think makes someone a Townie? A love of place and a loyalty to what makes the place special. An appreciation for history and the ability to embrace new things that compliment and enhance that history. For us as a publication, it’s anyone who loves Thomasville, and can be found frequenting her local businesses. What makes Thomasville magical for you? Only everything! As I mentioned, this idea that you can do anything--whether it be a newspaper or a oneact play or a coffee shop or a cheese-makery--is life-changing. It’s magical how this place and the people in it inspire and empower so many good ideas. No matter if you succeed or fail, Tville is still behind you, waiting for your next incarnation. It’s so easy to be involved, so easy to contribute. There is just a tremendous amount of goodwill in this town, and I’ve found no other place like it. So, all that, and the moss-draped branches and old buildings make it easy to want to get out of bed every day. Name: Sarah Manwaring How did you come to live in/work in/near the Ville? Born and raised and proud of it! Favorite Tville hang out: Moonspin Pizza + Sweet Grass Dairy If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be: Does Plantation Parkway count as a street? What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie: I’ve always been engaged by the history and charm of my hometown. I love having a voice in my community. I cherish the local flavor and like to ensure that everyone is getting a piece of the pie. Strike that, the best piece of the pie. What do you think makes someone a Townie? Hey, everyone is a Townie in my book, jack! Townies love not only participating in the downtown scene but also love to be active and positive members of our community. Townies believe in shopping local. We have a really unique thing going on here in the Ville and Townies relish in that! What makes Thomasville magical for you? One of my favorite quotes on traveling is by Mark Twain, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrowmindedness…” I’ve done a bit of travelling, lived in other places and all were truly remarkable. Though my travel itch is not yet scratched, I’ve learned that Thomasville is that special place, that hidden gem people seek, that I sought when I traveled. I would search out small, charming towns with lots of local flavor. But in the end, I realized I was always searching for home. Name: Laura Floyd How did you come to live in/work in/near the Ville? I used to work full time at the Thomasville Center for the Arts, and now focus on holding their monthly Illustration Friday sessions at Grassroots. Favorite Tville hang out? That’s tough- I may have to categorize. Cheap/fuerte margarita: Old Mexico, Quiet reading/work time: Grassroots, Snack: Sweet Grass, Quick get-away: The Big Oak If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be? Oooooooooh… I don’t wanna be a street, I wanna be the BIG OAK looking over all the pretty streets and houses and yards. What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie? It challenges me to hone my chops, to stay in touch and to consistently give sweet humor. What do you think makes someone a Townie? A sincere adoration for its history and quirks, and a heart for the preservation of its soul. What makes Thomasville magical for you? You can walk right down the middle of Broad Street during rush hour, and folks’ll still insist on stopping their cars to let you pass! That’s magic, y’all!
---“I love the Townie because it’s full of GOOD LOCAL news, not mug shots of thugs! “- Haile M.---
---“The Townie is the best spot in town to get the low down on what’s happening ‘on the bricks.’” - Mat W. of Sweet Grass Dairy---
---It is a great reflection of Thomasville’s charming, small-town personality and keeps me up to date on all the new and exciting things that are happening.” - Jill H. of Out of the Blue Photography---
Name: Jon Towns How did you come to live in/work in/near the Ville? My family moved here from Tallahassee when I was in elementary school. And because of the convenience of great friends and a local university, I have been here ever since! Favorite Tville hang out: I would have to say Gateway Cinemas. Catching a movie with friends is one of the few breaks I ever give myself, and I am a huge movie fanatic! If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be? I would have to be Young Street. I lived there and met some of my favorite people on this street. I have had some of the best times and memories with the people who lived there. What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie? I have general freedom to take my story in any direction I want. If there was anything true about the Townie, it offers true free press! What do you think makes someone a Townie? Someone who cares about local people, especially local people who make a business their livelihood. I work downtown, and shop owners come and visit and tip me. In return, I spend my money in their shops versus online, because we all care about each other! What makes Thomasville magical for you? The true quality of friendship. I met a lot of people in college, especially from out of town, who didn’t really try and stay in touch. But local people are friendly and care about me, even if I hardly know them. This is a special town. Name: Rebekah Giambroni How did you come to live in/work in/near the Ville? I got my first “real” job in Thomasville as a graphic designer and photographer. Favorite Tville hang out? Cherokee Lake. My husband and I walk there and I love to get nature shots there. If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be? Any one with beautiful old homes in restored condition. What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie? Learning more about the people and places in town. Meeting new people since I’m still new here as well. What do you think makes someone a Townie? Living somewhere and loving that place like home. What makes Thomasville magical for you? The dedication to historic preservation. Not all towns value that and I LOVE that Thomasville works so hard to stay beautiful. Name: Jennifer “I just had two glasses of wine and now I want a patio set” Westfield How did you come to work in the Ville? I work a 9-5 in Talla-hoo with the President of TOSAC, who brought me into the Center for the Arts’ artist collective as a photographer. When the Center found out my degrees were in writing, they started giving me writing jobs, which, back in May, included putting together a piece on the Southern Collector’s exhibit at the Lapham-Patterson house for the Townie. Been writing for the Townie and the Center ever since. Favorite Tville hang out: Sweetgrass. If I were gonna pull a Henry VIII and eat myself to death, that’s where I’d do it. They’d have to cut the rings off my bloated fingers when I finally kicked the bucket. If you were a street in Thomasville, which one would you be? Broad Street. Up north where I was born, the men often refer to unruly women as “broads.” So every time I see “Broad Street” I picture a street full of unruly women, and frankly, that’s where I belong. What’s your favorite thing about writing for the Townie? The discipline. I live by Strunk & White’s “Omit needless words,” and journalism demands that. My degrees are in creative writing, but with journalism, the whole story is already there for the telling, which makes reporting much easier than fiction writing. What do you think makes someone a Townie? When your friend says let’s grab a glass of wine at the cheese shop, or an espresso at the coffee shop and you know to go to Sweetgrass or Grassroots without thinking twice. What makes Thomasville magical for you? Diana Vreeland once said that the best thing about London is Paris. To me the best thing about Tallahassee {where I live} is Thomasville. Because of the colleges and the legislative sessions, the in- and out-flux of people in Tallahassee are tremendous, so it’s very hard to keep a restaurant open here or make a friend who doesn’t eventually move away. The feeling of permanence in Thomasville is where the magic lies for me.
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FACEBOOK.COM/THOMASVILLE.TOWNIE
August 16 - September 5
TU Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Alumni It’s hotter than a goat’s butt in a pepper patch, but Fellow alums, it is time to rally together and show our Night Hawk Pride. Homecoming is just around the corner and the Thomas University Alumni Association’s Homecoming committee has BIG things planned this fall. Along with an annual chili cook-off, an international dinner prepared by TU’s international students and an alumni golfing event, the Alumni Association also has an annual awards banquet for outstanding alumni. Do you know an alumnus who is a dedicated volunteer, has an outstanding career or has achievement in service? The Alumni Association is seeking nominations for the 2013 Alumni Awards. Summer of 2013 has been unusually long, hot, drowsy, and wet, really wet. Am I right? Nevertheless, the season for relaxation, seaside adventures, and bug spray will soon be replaced by cooler weather, pumpkin spiced everything, fiery chili, boots with leggings, and bonfires. I always think of fall as a time for change, when the first cool autumn breeze finally blows through the streets of the Ville, I feel like that is the time to really start tackling tasks that I was too lethargic to accomplish during the summer months. You may have noticed while driving along Pinetree Boulevard the change that is taking place on the Thomas University campus. That impressive structure is the new academic building, the SmithBonvillian Hall. If you happen to be on Magnolia Road you will notice that the old Magnolia-Chappelle school has been remodeled into Thomas University’s West Campus. The new West Campus houses the Student Life Center, the newly renovated Nighthawk basketball gymnasium, a state-of-the-art student fitness center and a cutting-edge sports medicine facility. These remarkable changes would not have been possible without the support and the belief from Thomasville community members. TU is not only functioning
---“The Townie is everything I hoped it would be from the very first issue. It breathes new life into Thomasville by shining lots of light on local businesses and events - and exposing the town’s everlasting charm.” - Abrie Soileau & Nicholas Sellers, Thomasville CrossFit---
under the guidance of the beloved Dr. Gary Bonvillian but also by a well-versed board of Trustees. The TU Board of Trustees is comprised of a broad spectrum of professionals, civic leaders and community volunteers. They are your peers, your neighbors and your coworkers. Thomas University has always been engaged in transforming the Thomasville community. Beginning with the university’s roots as Birdwood College, alumni have gone out, not only into the community but also into the world, empowered by the tools the university has provided them. Thomas University has continued to transform over the years--this ain’t your grandma’s community college anymore, no sir! Thomas University is not only recognized nationally as a stand-out amongst educational institutions but is also a leader in higher education internationally. There is something remarkable to be said about the relationship between Thomas University and Thomasville. How many friends or family members do you know that have attended Thomas University? Well, ladies and gents, there is no better time than now, amongst all the change and transformation, to be proud of your Alma Mater. It not only enriches the community with customary university courses but also with art exhibits, book clubs, a creative arts journal, a jazz ensemble, and Dr. Bonvillian even has his own blog for the Huffington Post. {!!!} Thomas University is not a sleepy university over on the hill but a thriving educational institution that seeks to enhance the lives of the students and the community that has always supported its transformation. Whomever you decide to nominate, email your nominations to Joseph Newborn at jnewborn@thomasu.edu before September 3rd. There’s a lot going on at Thomas University this Fall. How will you get involved with this local resource? How will Thomas University transform you? - Sarah M.
---“I could go on and on.....and on!!! Thanks for all you do....I was at Sweetgrass the other day and looked down to see a copy of The Townie on the table.....I thought: How cool is this?” - Suzanne B.---
Name the Townie Contest The Townie “head” was one of our first identifying designs, and is now synonymous with the Townie. Over the years, people have assumed it to be both male and female and have often asked if he/she has a name. Funny enough, he/she doesn’t! We think at almost four years old, it’s high time for one and we’d love your help.
KC: Annie ran our store in Tallahassee so completely. She could do the ordering, the events, the marketing, the store displays, and some of the financial aspects. And on top of that, she is a definite literati (which I am not!). It’s not often you run across a person who can think creatively and practically, but she is one of those rare birds who can really do both. I also think it’s really important that the owner fit the community and when I met Annie and her husband Jordan for the first time, I knew that Thomasville would be a good fit for them. BB: What is your biggest fear about the switch over? KC: That Annie won’t allow me to “borrow” all the new books I want. AJ: Tallahassee is just a 45-minute drive down the road, but I think anyone would tell you Thomasville is a whole new ball game. Katie and Scott are such pillars of this community, so I’m nervous -- as anyone would be, I think -- about fitting in and finding my place. Everyone wants to be accepted, and I think maybe that’s what I’m most nervous about: Being accepted as a new face in a place where everyone has a history and is a part of this big, loving family. BB: What is your biggest hope for the switch over? KC: That Annie will find as much fulfillment in being a small town shop owner as I have. Bookstores have such a special place in communities and I hope that Thomasville continues to support Annie and the store as much as they have supported us! Retail is so fun in that your work and home life can be so integrated. I mean, our customers have practically raised our daughter Reece and that has really shaped who she is so far. I hope Annie can have that same experience, but that she will also be able to “retreat” from it when she needs. AJ: I love that The Bookshelf has a history. It’s already lived through so many passionate, loving owners, and I’m excited that I can now be added to that list. I’m hopeful I can put my creative stamp on the store, that I can show readers and customers in Thomasville that I love books and that I believe in the power of the written word. I think there’s something so special about a brick-and-mortar bookstore in a world where those don’t always get the chance to exist anymore. This opportunity, in so many ways, feels like magic -- like this gift I’ve been given. I’m ridiculously hopeful for the future. BB: What do you like most about the other person, in relation to the store? KC: I really like how well-read she is and has always been. From children’s books to middle grade readers to current stuff (good and trashy!), she reads it. And also, she’s a product snob so she has great taste in papers and products. If it’s not beautiful and functional she doesn’t look twice at it. I think you’ll see that reflected in the stores products. AJ: People absolutely love Katie. It’s obvious from the moment they walk in the door that they love and respect her for what she does every day and how she does it. Add me to the list of admirers. Katie has built something so special on this little spot on Broad Street; her handiwork is obvious. I love her aesthetic and her eye for good product, but mostly I love how she interacts with the people of Thomasville. She knows everyone by name, which right now, for me, feels impossible. She gives the same amount of attention, respect, and love to every person who walks in the store doors, and that is amazing to me. BB: Katie - what will you be doing with your time? KC: I’m working with Scott making Everfan superhero capes in his sweatshop upstairs at the bookstore. It’s not quite as glamorous as bookseller but he’s a better boss than I am and lets me spend more time with his babies. BB: Annie - what new products/services/lines do you have planned? AJ: Katie and I share the same visual aesthetic, so I don’t think people will notice a drastic difference in the store right away. I don’t want them to. The lines and products I’ve helped select for this fall will match the classy, timeless feel of so many things we already carry. I’m most excited about a new stationery line we’ll be carrying, One Canoe Two. (I’m a sucker for pretty paper.) It’s folksy and fun, and I think it’s going to do really well. I’m also pretty excited about Fishes Eddy, a new line of dinnerware and glassware we’ll be carrying in time for the holidays. I’m first and foremost a lover of books, so dinnerware may seem like a stretch for the store, but I think paired with our eye-catching cookbooks, the line makes sense. Plus, who doesn’t like a good polka dotted drinking glass? BB: If you could say one thing to Thomasville and your customers, what would it be? KC: I am so indebted to our customers-- they understand the importance of shopping local. Scott (who is a native) never thought I would love Thomasville like I do and I know that it is because the most interesting people shop in their local bookstore and I get to have the benefit of their patronage and friendship. I pray they continue to support the shops that make our community so unique. And I hope they don’t mind that I continue to hang around the store. AJ: I wish I could convey to people how excited I am for this opportunity. I’m a naturally quiet, subdued person, so I save the fist pumps and excited squeals for my own home. But the truth is, I know this is all a gift. A year ago -- almost to the day -- I was working a desk job that I liked, but didn’t love. I didn’t come home feeling liked I’d made any kind of difference or impact, and I didn’t know what my next step should be. Katie bringing the bookstore to Tallahassee was an answer to a prayer I hadn’t even given a voice to yet. The closing of that store was sad to me, but sometimes sad things have to happen so we can be brave enough to grow and to take new leaps of faith. This is a leap for me and for my husband. We want to call Thomasville home, and we want to make this business a part of our family. We can’t do that without the love and support of the community. We’ve seen how they’ve embraced the store, how they’ve loved Katie and Scott, and we’re hopeful they’ll embrace this new chapter in The Bookshelf’s life. We’re so excited, and we hope Thomasville is too.
How to enter: Visit www.thomasvilletownie.com to give us your best name - you can enter as many names as you like. Or fill out this form and leave it with one of our gracious sponsors. They’d love to see you, anyway.
---“Can’t do without my Townie. Keeps me in the know! I tell my friends what is going on and they are ---“Townie’s paper has the scoop on all things astounded I know. Love it!! Thanks Townie for being happening in Thomasville! I look forward to every here for us in The Ville. Make your choice: Need a edition - and her Facebook posts - so I know what’s up vendor, check with Townie. Need to know about an around town. And I LOVE that she’s always willing to organization, ask Townie. Townie is always willing tell her followers about what’s going on in my shop :)” to help. If she doesn’t knew, she finds out. I really - Kristin M. of Eco Bella @ Toscoga--appreciate that.” - Colleen D.---
We’ll gather names until we have several viable options and the staff will have first go at them. We’ll then present the choices to you, Townies, for the final say! The submitter of the chosen name will win a Townie prize pack, so put on your thinking tophat and get cracking!
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Name The Townie The Townie’s name is ____________________________________ My name is _________________________________________________ I can be reached at {email or phone}
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THE CENTER Whet Your Palette
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A Class Each Month
Bring your friends, your favorite beverage and prepare for a memorable night out! $25 per class, includes supplies
August: Robin Autry – Mixed Media September: Kay Cromartie – Watercolor October: Steve Andrews – Oil Paint November: Liz Barber – Abstracts December: donalee pond-Koenig – Collage January: Sandi Shaw – Pastel For more information visit us online:
www.thomasvillearts.org
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Together, as we beautify our city, we unify our city! Downtown. The collaboration between Downtown Thomasville, Main Street and Thomasville Center for the Arts is now complete! A team of five talented artists, Cindy Inman, Sarah Coakley, Marty Haythorn, Mimi Bertolet and Lindajo Haythorn, have created stunning mosaics on 65-gallon planters on Remington Avenue between Broad Street and Madison Street. Come take a closeup look, you will be amazed by their work!
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Aug 16 - Sep 5 VOLUME 2
Aug 16 - Sep 5 VOLUME 2
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Dance Card. ADVENTURE PAGES BOOK CLUB
Middle and High School Students Theme for 2013-2014: British literature, study skills, logical fallacies. Free! Everyone welcome: public, private, or homeschooled Facilitated by Joy Hinson Slaughter Monday evenings from 5:45-7:45 in Group Study Room #4 at the Thomas County Public Library. 229-403-9804, quiverfull@gmail.com .
August 17
Inspiring Marketing Collateral In this two hour workshop, learn what it takes to create inspiring marketing collateral. $25, $15 for Collective members 10 AM -12 PM 229-226-0588, Studio 209
August 17
Reader Meet Writer An exciting ‘read-around’ for literary talent to ‘pitch their book’ to over a dozen area authors in the Reader Meet Writer Author’s Fair. A Q&A and booksigning will also follow. 229-225-5252, 10 AM - 12 PM, Public Library
August 17 Jane Eyre
Presented by Red Hills Players, tickets $10 229-226-0588, 7 PM, TCA
September 6 Flaunt 2013
Events all month long! www.thomasvillearts.org
---“I love poring through each issue of The Townie. Getting heads up on what’s coming and where the Townie is heading next! I love your posts about your daily travels!” - Patricia S.-----“From FYI to DIY, local celebs to local shopping to local produce. You’ve got your finger on the pulse of this city lady! MUAH!” - Alissa S.-----“I’m pretty sure that this has probably been said already, but I would say that I love the townie because it’s about all things local. It features everything charming about our little town!” - Audrea S.---
Issue No.
Help David Kick Cancer! Small Southern towns are known for good food, friendly company and support of their own. In this case, a local business is holding a fundraiser to help a friend in need. DDP Monograms will be hosting a fundraiser for 30 year old David Waldron who was recently diagnosed with brain cancer. On August 23rd, DDP will be at the entrance of the Thomasville/Thomas County Central football game selling support bracelets for $2 each. All the proceeds go directly to David. Starting the next morning, DDP will be hosting “David Waldron Day”, and those who bought a bracelet can bring it in to see if theirs is one of three randomly marked to win a $25 gift certificate. In addition, a percentage of the sales made in the store that day will go to David. The funds raised will assist with travel expenses to and from the hospital in Gainesville. David has already had surgery to remove most of the tumor on his brain but must still undergo radiation treatment. He has blogged about his experiences with his illness thus far at davidwaldron1.wordpress.com. We at the Townie and the lovely folks at DDP hope to see a huge turnout for the fundraiser August 23rd and 24th and an outpouring of love for one of our locals! For more information, contact Ashley Cox at DDP Monograms and Gifts at 229.233.8125 or ddpwebsales@hotmail.com. - Rebekah G.
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Road Trip’s New Series:
Road Trip
Autumn Awesome
Suwannee River State Park
The best way to counter the suffocating humidity of summer is to hit the nearest piece of coastline, and park it under an umbrella, at a tiki hut, or on a sandbar—we thought there was no better place than the Forgotten Coast of Florida to do that this year.
Seventy miles southeast of Thomasville, situated in the ghost town of Ellaville, Florida, lies Suwannee River State Park. The park is equipped with sites for RVs, camping with amenities and primitive camping, but what many don’t know is a good number of Florida’s state parks offer cabin rentals, and Suwannee is one of them.
Now Labor Day is upon us, the coeds are trickling back into town, the classroom supply lists are posted, and soon, we’ll be able to step out the front door and not feel as if we’re walking into an oven. Fall provides the opportunity for a different breed of road trip, given the less-oppressive temperatures, fewer bugs and lack of the dire need to immerse oneself in the nearest body of water without passing Go and collecting $200.
The cabins at Suwannee are fully furnished, surprisingly modern and are equipped with full kitchens and fireplaces. Each has a fully screened wraparound porch with picnic table and porch swing; out back are a private grill and fire pit. Linens, kitchen utensils, hand and dish soap are provided, but you’ve got to bring everything else from T-ville. If you get out there and realize you forgot the salt and pepper, you’ll be driving halfway back home to get them. Pick up a skirt steak from Bob and Jeff’s IGA and marinate it—skirt steaks are divine when grilled. Take full advantage of the grill, but bring pre-prepared side dishes, and desserts from Savannah Moon to make things easier.
North Florida and South Georgia provide endless opportunities for enjoying Fall in all its glory. Both are home to wineries, with tasting rooms, that harvest Muscadine grapes for local varietals in August and September, and state parks full of rivers, hiking trails, dazzling underground caverns, gubernatorial mansion ruins, and many a geocache—don’t worry, we’ll tell you all about it. Fall is coming, and so is a new Road Trip series. - Jennifer W.
Flaunt Cont’d The One Book: Let’s Read Together project intends to unite everyone in Thomasville, when after the kickoff party on the evening of September 6th, the title of the secret book is revealed, and a month-long celebration of literacy, the book and its message will begin. Little free libraries will soon be placed by sponsors all over town, and will be filled with books and information on literary awareness. Installation artists’ storefront displays will soon adorn downtown shop windows, each a unique interpretation of what each artist would do if they could stop time. There are a record 34 artists participating in this year’s event, and countless volunteers. “This event is full of surprises,” says Darlene Mathis, Adult Programs Coordinator at the Center for the Arts. “The sponsors who came to us, artists anticipating the competition, and volunteers who wanted to be involved in the name of literacy make me so proud of this town.” On the morning of September 6th, Broad Street will shut down to house over a dozen plein air painters who will spend the day inspired by the book’s message—to make the most of one’s time on earth—painting on stacks of books, which will be in a juried art competition later in the evening. There will be a separate juried competition for installation artists’ window displays, and the paper timepieces they will incorporate into their sponsors’ storefronts will be auctioned off at the kickoff event. One plein air painter and one installation artist will win $1,000 and a magazine spread in the Center’s new ARTS magazine; one second runner up in each category will take home $500 and have the opportunity to design an adult class or workshop at the Center.
There’s no place like Thomasville THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS FOR A GREAT YEAR! Sweet Grass Dairy the Bookshelf Thomasville Center for the Arts Relish Astro Exterminating Downtown Thomasville Merchants Board Firefly Pamela von Dresseler, Rolfing Chubb Realty Archbold Home Health South GA Spine + Joint CFS Wealth Kalon Counseling Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Metta Day Spa Vinson Chiropractic Servpro The Blackberry Patch Carrdian Farms Moonspin Liam’s Dara Barwick Consulting
Kevin’s A Confident Smile Ashley Home Furniture The City of Boston Oppenheim Signature Smiles Bacchus The Plaza Restaurant Thomasville Animal Hospital DDP Monogramming Ameris Bank Thomasville Landmarks YMCA of Thomasville Fix the Tech BWB Auto Thomas University Southern Roots Gordon Avenue Market Ally B Wiregrass Gallery Mimi’s the Look Lewis Produce Bradley’s Country Sausage WG Hamil Pecans
For hiking, lightweight athletic wear and sneakers from Dash are all you need for the relatively easy terrain. There are several trails at Suwannee, one that meanders along the river, and another that takes you on an easy, but lengthy, hike into the woods. On the latter trail, you’ll find primitive campsites, an abandoned cemetery, and if you know where to look and don’t mind leaving the trail, the mansion ruins of Governor George Drew, who built his home away from Tallahassee in Ellaville in the 1860’s. Once you’ve crossed the old US 90 bridge and pass the first set of picnic tables at the start of the trail, keep hiking until you reach a clearing with a single picnic table. Follow the trail of bricks and you’ll find what’s left of the former Governor’s abode. The picnic table near the ruins is a great place to stop for a snack. Kevin’s carries both a two-person and four-person cooler backpack. If you’re on a light hike, pack some pimento cheese and bar bread from Sweetgrass Dairy, or Pita Queen’s horseradish dip from Lewis Produce. If you plan to hike the entirety of the trail, start first thing in the morning and don’t forget a Camelbak, and some heartier comestibles.
Happy Anniversary! Have you ever met a one year old baby that already looks like a grownup?
The New York Times best-selling author of the secret book will visit Thomasville to round out the month-long event with a book signing which is sure not to disappoint. It’s almost time for FLAUNT 2013: It’s About Time! - Jennifer W.
Fall fitness & Fun for foodies! Come see us on Broad Street!
amerisbank.com
Passwords are like underwear.
Change them regularly. presents
Proposals that Inspire
An online discussion with foundation experts, 1-2 p.m. Aug. 28 Free for SCeNE members $25 for non-members sceneresources.com or 229-227-6903
- Jennifer W.
RELISH + DASH
“The Center has never offered so much prize money for a single art event,” says installation artist Clay Byars, whose work will appear in the storefront of Hick’s. “I think the book’s theme is an important one, and it’s made me think introspectively, more than with many of the other projects I’ve done.”
COMIX by Laura Floyd
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BWB Auto Sales
“Selling Cars Like Candy Bars” God bless organ donors!
608 North Ave., Thomasville, GA 229-226-0404 - bwbcars@yahoo.com www.bwbautosales.com