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DEC 6 - Dec 19 VOLUME 2
DEC 6 - Dec 19 VOLUME 2
The GIFT GUIDE ISSUE
Issue No.
Vive le Gift! Nothing whips me into a Francophilic frenzy quite like holiday gift-giving. Some of the finest things come from France: from my favorite reads, recipes, films, philosophers and fragrances. I’ve found that no matter how finicky the recipient, there is something useful, edible, readable or wearable for everyone on my list, including the hard-to-please types.
The GIFT GUIDE ISSUE
21
Christmas in Lights is Here Looking for a fun evening activity? Load up the car for a drive through the Flowers Christmas in Lights! A Thomasville tradition for many years now, the display opened on Friday, November 29th.
The Naughty Niece
The Foodie Friend
The Wine Wizard
Nothing draws a rebel to read more than the words “banned book.” Henry Miller’s Tropic of Cancer is literary naughtiness at its finest. The book chronicles an American expat’s squalid, surreal experiences and musings in Paris in the 1930’s, filtered through the lenses of poverty, nihilism, and laugh-out-loud absurdity. The book was banned in the United States for thirty years, and released only after the Supreme Court got involved. If Niece prefers highbrow naughty, give her the Oxford translation of The Kill by Émile Zola, a delicious damning of the nouveau riche of the second French empire, chock full of the balls, barouche rides, boredom and bawdiness of 1850’s Parisian high society. Both available from the Bookshelf.
Like me, when you walk into Relish and make a beeline for the truffle counter, you’re passing some of the finest cooking and baking wares on the planet. If I were to buy my mother a skillet for Christmas she’d either toss it aside or hit me over the head with it, but year after year when she calls to ask me what I want for Christmas I tell her I want Le Creuset anything. For a small, independent shop, Relish carries a splendid offering of Le Creuset, Émile Henry and Mauviel pieces that a true foodie will love and appreciate—braisers, tagines, kabob stones, terrines and cocottes. Don’t know what those are? Don’t worry, Foodie Friend will. Pair a Le Creuset piece with a “Treat yo Self” gift box from Sweetgrass Dairy. If Foodie Friend is a fan of Parks and Recreation, they’ll be doubly delighted.
You know you’ve got to buy this guy or gal a bottle of something {they’ve already got every imaginable accessory}, but what could you possibly get to impress them without taking out a second mortgage for a Lafite-Rothschild 1982 vintage? Try a mid-range (2009-2010) Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Grown in the Côtes du Rhône, it’s one of the oldest French wines, an earthy, herby, complex red with notes of black cherry and spice when it’s aged. J’s Wine and Spirits has a 2010 Louis Bernard and a Domaine du Vieux Lazaret of the same year for under $40, but if you want to splurge, pick up the Wine Spectator 94 point-rated 2009 Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe “La Crau,” also available at J’s.
Begun in 1995, the display is a tribute to late Flowers chairman and CEO W. H. Flowers, Jr., who had a special affinity for Christmas. Since 1995, the display has continued to be an annual holiday event for the town. The display is located at the Flowers corporate headquarters, just a short drive down U.S. Hwy. 19. The display will be open from 6 PM to 10 PM nightly until December 31st and is absolutely free! Just make sure to turn your headlights off and observe the 5 mph speed limit.
Two new restaurants opening next week! Blue Coop is taking reservations for December 12th + Chop House on the Bricks will have a special menu for Vicky Christy... Cahoots, a new bath and body boutique is here inside Hicks Clothing...try the lotion stick... There’s a candy shop on Broad! Only for the month...get sweet over at TCA on Broad... Liam’s has two new chefs...one has sushi experience and one has pastry experience... criossants, puhleez?? Pssst...News from the North Pole is coming...
- Alex W.
Don’t Miss the Troupe Christmas Show! Coming up on December 10th, the 36th Annual Christmas troupe show is setting up to be an exciting event. Featuring a wide variety of styles and performances, the show will be sure to provide a great experience for all.
The Arts Aficionado
The Hipster Stepsister
If they’re a lover of music, give them Thomasville Entertainment Foundation concert tickets. In late January, TEF will feature Jon Nakamatsu, who will perform piano selections by three composers, including Frédéric Chopin. Chopin was a Polish expat, but he lived and performed in Paris for the latter half of his life. In Late March, TEF will host the New York Chamber Soloists who will perform the works of French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, and others. For tickets, visit www.TEFconcerts. com. For the visual arts lover or experimental creator, sign them up for Thomasville Center for the Arts’ January 16th Whet Your Palette featuring pastels with Sandi Shaw. Arts Aficionado can create his or her very own pastel creation, a favorite medium of Delacroix, Manet and Degas. For registration visit www.thomasvillearts.org.
This one would be easy. Except you can’t give her a case of PBR in front of the family, and you’re unsure whether she already has the new Arcade Fire. It might be easier to find out if she has a turntable, and if she doesn’t, get her one from Apollo Records on Broad Street, down in The Points. Stepsister likely has Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, the fourth and best album by indie rock group Phoenix, who hail from Versailles, but does she have it on vinyl? Apollo can order this or most any album you’d like in time for the holidays. While you’re there, peruse the adjoining ForeveRetro. There is likely nothing there that Stepsister won’t appreciate.
This year’s show will give long-time attendees a lot to be excited about and will be incorporating a wide range of dance acts and multiple solos. Started in 1972, the Thomasville Music and Drama Troupe was founded by Fred Allen. Allen, whose many impressive feats include training at the Julliard School in New York City, acting on the New York stage and working with RCA records, dreamt of sharing his talents with the youth of Thomasville, to give them first-hand experience in the theater. While Allen no longer helms Troupe, it’s still in good hands. This year marks Troupe’s second year with artistic director Raymond Hughes. A Thomasville native and locally beloved, Hughes has travelled the world working in theater and has served as the chorus master of the New York Metropolitan Opera. “I try to make it very educational but I also try to make it a huge amount of fun for everyone,” says Hughes. “We’re singing in Latin and German among other things!”
- Jennifer W.
Hughes will be keeping the holiday spirit fresh with a variety of works, including some less-heard numbers. “There’s a wonderful piece called ‘Variations on Jingle Bells’ that’s very difficult,” says Hughes. A colleague of Hughes composed the piece, and it’s the first time it will be performed in Thomasville. “It’s very outrageous and very funny.”
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Hughes also hints there will be a few dance numbers to look forward to, including Rock and Roll Reindeer and Big Band Santa. And yes, Big Band Santa will indeed include a dancing Santa. “I really try to do as much music live on these concerts as I possibly can, because canned music is like karaoke. And I’ve made a really big deal out of incorporating as many musicians as I possibly can,” says Hughes. Zachary Walter is Troupe co-captain along with Blair Davis, and is optimistic about the show as well. “We’ve had probably 50 new members this year,” says Walter. “We’re doing a lot more classical songs this year. There’s going to be a lot of contemporary songs as well.” Another aspect to get excited about will be the number of solos during this year’s show. One of the solos will revolve around the World War I Battle of Belleau Wood, during which soldiers of both sides broke no man’s land to celebrate Christmas together. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday, December 4th, at Hick’s Clothing Co. until the day of the show, wherein they will go on sale at the box office. Remember, there will be only one showing, so be sure to get your tickets! - Alex W.
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2 FIND US ONLINE AT THOMASVILLETOWNIE.COM
DEC 6 - Dec 19
Gifts for Tweens.
Our Staff Editor + Publisher Bunny Byrne Columnists Lauren Basford J. David Bray, Jr. Denise Purvis Abrie Soileau Jennifer Westfield Contributing Writers J. L. Cox III Laura Floyd Rebekah Giambroni Denise Purvis Jon Towns Jennifer Westfield Alex Walter Comic Artist Laura Floyd
Books
Guatemala Guitar Straps--Earth Lover, $42.00
Warm Winter Hats
Lego Play Book--The Bookshelf, $24.99 What kid doesn’t love Legos? I remember how much my nephew loved these when he was younger. Note: Stepping on Legos is incredibly painful. Encourage your kids to build something, instead of getting injuries, with these building suggestions in this book. If your young architect REALLY loves Legos and Harry Potter, consider getting Harry Potter, Building the Magical World, also available at The Bookshelf.
I think most kids go through that “aspiring” guitarist phase. Let them embrace it and look cool {Is the term cool cool anymore?} at the same time.
Bow Knitted Beret--Bella Moon, $10.99 Super cute and in a couple of assorted colors.
Twist It Up--Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop, $19.99 This children’s cookbook is authored by an elevenyear-old that decided he wanted to become a chef after battling leukemia.
Blabla Knitted Dolls--Lavish, Various Prices Simply adorable! There are several different styles that I think would appeal more to girls rather than boys, but I have to admit that I wanted to snatch up a couple of these for myself.
Blogging Bunny Byrne As the holidays kick off and the shopping rush starts, the question is often asked, “What to buy”? In true Thomasville style, your list should be as follows: The always classic Barbour Quilted Jacket, Kevin’s of Thomasville
Copy Editor Abrie Soileau
Funky Stuffed/Knitted Creatures Kenana Knitter Critters--Earth Lover, Various Prices Each one of these cute cuddly creatures is hand-knitted by a woman in Kenya and sports the signature of the woman who created it.
Hob-Snob Gifties.
Distribution Jon Towns
Website Maintenance Jon Towns
Initially I snatched this up because I was of the mindset that, “Yeah, this is so easy! My niece is a tween.” Then, I started really thinking, “What the heck is a tween?” I ended up looking it up because the longer I focused on the term “tween,” the more confused I made myself. Although there are several different definitions, the consensus is that a tween is {generally} an adolescent between the ages of 10 + 12. HA! My niece IS a tween--she’s 11. Going back to basics, I thought about gifts that she may like and added some options for males as well. - Denise P.
The timeless French Lavender Christmas Pomanders, The On Point Collection
Kids’ Davy Crockett Hat--Kevin’s, $15.99 This one is pretty self explanatory and can be ordered online! Cute Small Bag Owl Purse--Loli’s, $22.95 It’s shaped like an owl. I don’t think you can get much cuter than that. Caroline Hill Small Sling Bag--Mimi’s The Look For Less, $26 without monogram or $36 with a monogram. What young girl wouldn’t love a bag with her initials on it?
I spoke with the illustrious Annie Bicknell last week and although her twiceyearly show isn’t for everyone, it’s always a treat for the senses--and the imagination. My favorite purchase of years past has been a stunning feathered wreath that features intact bird pelts. As I said, not for everyone, but certainly very “Thomasville”, right down to the stag horn cutlery. Her first love is the Decorative Arts, those things that make our homes and lives so very livable. She travels to France, Germany, England, Italy and even Texas in search of just the right objects. You’re sure to see things you never knew you needed. If you’re reading this on Friday the 6th, make a beeline over to Uno Hill Barn at PHP for the last day of this season’s show. If you’re a day late, sign up for her email list at ahb@theonpointcollection.com. Below, our dear Lee Cox tells us what to consider for our most discerning of friends. - Bunny B.
The stylish Parisian Tole Plates, The On Point Collection The can’t-live-without Reindeer Bottle Opener, Firefly The dapper cummerbund and bowtie Spaniel Formal Set, Fly Formal The royal Le Chameau rubber boot, Kevin’s of Thomasville
The refreshing Jack Black Face Buff, Relish&Dash The historical Crescent Moon Over Carolina: William Moultrie and American Liberty by C.L. Bragg, signed, of course, The Bookshelf The southern Beretta Fedora Hat, Stafford’s The divine Taste of Thomasville cheese gift box, Sweet Grass Dairy - J.L. Cox III
Georgia Press Association
Dust Off Your Top Hats, Vicky Christy Cometh
The Thomasville Townie publishes the first and third Friday of every month. To advertise, suggest article ideas or contact staff members, please email yourtownie@gmail.com. Printed by the Bainbridge Post Searchlight
This is my first year as a Thomasvillian, and one of the things I am most pumped about is attending Victorian Christmas as a true Townie. Victorian Christmas is held annually on the second Thursday and Friday in December. This year it will be held on December 12th and 13th, from 6:00-10:00 PM, and, like many others, I will be there with bells on. Felicia Brannen, Special Events + Auditorium Coordinator for the City of Thomasville, estimates that there were over 30,000 attendees during the two-night event last year and anticipates at least that many for this year. As always, there is no admission charge for this event although a few attractions may require a ticket. Guests are not required to dress in Victorian Garb, but Brannen suggests that visitors may want to dress up. “What we have found
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Get Back on Track!
is that most people have what is needed in their closets already and it is just a matter of putting the pieces together to complete the costume,” Brannen stated. Last year, CNS {Community Network Services} randomly handed out over 65 gift certificates to those who attended the event in Victorian era attire to encourage visitors to dress up. “I have been told that this will be done again this year, and the ‘gift certificates’ will be in the form of everyone’s favorite…Downtown Dollars!” said Brannen. Brannen stated that her favorite part of Victorian Christmas is the community involvement. “Victorian Christmas has benefited so many organizations since it began, and it has become a much anticipated homecoming for Thomasville and its extended community,” said Brannen. This year, six local dance organizations have combined efforts
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South Georgia Spine & Joint Center
There are many other attractions this year that all members of the family can look forward to. There will be a Live Nativity, musical events each night at the Municipal Auditorium, carriage and wagon rides, marshmallow toasting, Continued, page 4...
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Santa Shops at Firefly. Holiday Candles
Pain Management Physical Therapy Chiropractic Decompression Therapy Massage Therapy Thomasville: 229-226-1035 Cairo: 229-377-1392 Bainbridge: 229-416-4457 southgaspineandjoint.com
to put on an evening of performances that will benefit people in Thomasville’s community that have been affected by breast cancer. All of the performances will take place at the Municipal Auditorium on Friday, December 13th. Showtimes will be at 6:00 PM with Dance Theater, 6:30 PM with South Georgia Ballet and 6:45 PM with Brookwood Spearettes, Dance Academy, The F.I.R.M. and Off Broad Street Center for the Dance Arts. There will not be an admission for the performances, but donations will be accepted at the door to benefit those affected by breast cancer locally.
Fair-trade Nativities Hand-made Jewelry Toys for Kiddos Stocking Stuffers Galore
downtown and fireflyhome.com
to advertise, contact yourtownie@gmail.com.
“A little smile, a word of cheer, A bit of love from someone near, A little gift from one held dear, Best wishes for the coming year. These make a merry Christmas!” John Greenleaf Whittier
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Blessings to You Yours from Oppenheim Signature Smiles
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FACEBOOK.COM/THOMASVILLE.TOWNIE
DEC 6 - Dec 19
- Road Trip -
- The Stylish House Well, well. Here we are again.
Tallahassee’s Market District
The Market District is home to shops, eateries and activities that lie between Maclay Commerce Drive and Timberlane Road, just off Thomasville Road. It’s a short 35 minute drive from Thomasville because it’s right at the edge of Tallahassee. What is formally called Market Square refers to the set of shops whose entrance is a left turn on Market Street from Timberlane Road, but the term has come to refer to all of the connecting shopping areas, as well. You’ll see a giant red pavilion in the center, where every Saturday there is a robust local farmer’s market from 8:00AM until 3:00PM. Every third Saturday is Small Business Saturday, and it is not uncommon to find the Mayor and his wife there shopping around for everything from produce to books to French pastries. The Market District is home to two local eateryinstitutions: Gordo’s, and Momo’s. The flagship Gordo’s is a twenty-minute drive into town and always crawling with coeds; same with Momo’s; their flagship is across the street from a gaggle of Florida State dormitories. I jumped for joy when I heard they’d opened second locations in the Market District. Gordo’s makes an ungodly Cuban sandwich, and I’ve never taken anyone there who didn’t say Gordo’s roast pork was the best they’ve ever had {scout’s honor}. The bulk of their pressed sandwiches, including my favorite, the Turkey Cuban, come with Gordo’s sauce, a concoction so seemingly simple, yet so divine, I’d put it on my cereal in the morning if I could get my hands on enough of it. Momo’s is a pizza joint and brewery on Market Street with New York-Style slices as big as your head, an extensive beer list, and an eclectic selection of toppings, including Sweet Grass Dairy’s own Thomasville Tomme. I like a slice topped with barbecue chicken, red onions and smoked Gouda, with a double chocolate stout. In Market Square, tucked next to the liquor store, is The Lounge, which is a strip of bar with liquors up to the ceiling, ambient lighting, and some of the friendliest, most knowledgeable bar staff around, who will give you unsolicited taste-tests, wine tips and who wear pressed white shirts with waistcoat vests and bow ties. It’s a
favorite bar of many locals who love the fact that no one knows about it, and who all very well might kill me if they read this. Around the way from The Lounge is Lofty Pursuits, an old timey soda fountain with serious malts, shakes and egg creams, plus a variety of ice creams and a ton of children’s toys from all over the world—many of which are out and available to play with. Across the way is Copy Cats, an art studio which offers classes where participants sip wine and paint together, and Firefly Pottery, a create-your-own pottery studio where you select a piece, paint it and the staff fires it for you. You needn’t bring anything to either place when you attend, and sessions are very reasonably priced. Narcissus, on the corner of Timberlane and Market, is where I get all of my Hudson jeans and Tory Burch flats, which are often marked down. Chameleon in Market Square is where I get my seven year-old’s Hudson jeans. After forcing my daughter to go clothes shopping, I take her for a sugar cookie at Tasty Pastry, which is currently celebrating its 50th year in town. My longtime hairdresser is at So Pure Salon, next to Mozaik restaurant on Market Street, which consistently has the best yellow fin tuna poké appetizer, despite its changing but always divine entrée selections. One might argue, and many do, that Sage on Maclay Boulevard is the best restaurant in Tallahassee, and that their sommelier/co-owner is the most wine-savvy fellow in town. I’d concur. They have a Beaujolais Blanc {a wine list rarity} and a sweet tea-brined roast pork tenderloin on their current menus, which are both out of this world. Once, a waiter tried to take the bread basket away too early and I had to stop myself from swatting his hand. I don’t typically eat bread with dinner, but when I do, it’s at Sage. It’s easy to make a full day, or even a weekend out of exploring the Market District. If you end your Saturday at Sage and can’t resist the urge for another glass of wine, there are a handful of big-name hotels less than a mile up the road if you decide to stay.
The kitten was so cute, but he smelled like a barnyard. Once we finally made it to my house, I gave him a bath. He was sparkling clean, and I had blood dripping down my face. Success! He cried the whole three hour drive to my parents’ house. He finally wedged himself under my car seat only emerging when he needed to relieve himself on my floorboard.
For a more adult oriented holiday, try the same thing but put a spin on it. Set up specific tasks for different groups or couples. Pair off guests based on compatibility or similar
Here in the South, it is second nature to ask “what can I bring’ or “what can I do to help” for a party or a holiday gathering. Let’s face it. We can’t do it all. Accept help when help is offered but be specific and keep the tasks small, fun and creative. No one likes to feel they were put to work or taken advantage of. Don’t be afraid to ask for help but do your part as well. If possible, keep a schedule. Keeping things running smoothly and on track leaves everyone happy. Don’t wait until the last minute. Set up realistic goals for yourself and family this holiday season regarding budget and time allotment for decorations and food preparation. Then, keep them. Realize you will not please everyone. We all have different expectations on what the holidays should mean. Instead of trying to live up to these ideas, this year try something completely different and surprise everyone. Including yourself. - Davey B. J. David Bray, Jr., is a Project Manager and Designer with Landford Thompson Interiors. Though based in Savannah, GA, Bray has current clients in town and works in Thomasville by appointment. www.landfordthompsoninteriors.com
- Fit as a Fiddle Goals. Intentions. Ambitions. In the midst of the season of indulgence, I tend to start thinking about New Year’s resolutions - accomplishing my goals, improving myself, trying new things, getting all aspects of my life in better “shape”, taking a new lease on life...starting anew. Isn’t that refreshing? Are YOU the best you’ve ever been? In some ways, probably so - but we are all a “work in progress” and it’s fun to do a little tweaking from time to time.
Trill: Urban; meaning truly and real
I told my coworkers where I was going in case these cat breeders were more like human organ harvesters. I got to this house, and I swear I could smell litter boxes from the road. I knew I was at the right place. The inside of the house smelled atrocious and there were all sorts of fluffy flat-faced cats slinking around. I told the cat lady to give me the smallest one. Lucky for me, there was just one left. I gave her my money and bolted before the smell absorbed into my clothes.
If you have children or will be having family or guests with children, try involving them with the holiday planning and decorating. Homemade place cards, natural florals and tree trimming done by the children can be criticized by no one and instantly become cherished keepsakes and memories for years to come. Collect pinecones and have the children print the guest names on colored paper and place them around the table for seating. When cutting fresh greenery for table or mantle decoration, teach the children the different plant or tree names and encourage them to make the arrangements themselves. Ask for their opinion. Make your holiday decorating a game or offer prizes to ‘little elves’. Incorporating the children makes them feel included and can give them something to do with all that nervous holiday energy. Giving the kids a project can bring friends and family together and create special memories for the children as well as the adults.
interests. Give strangers the opportunity to interact over a project. Again, offer a prize - a nice bottle of wine or a local handmade gift can make the task at hand a game and fun for all. Write various projects on folded paper and have the guests draw from a bowl. Ask your guests to put their name in a hat and then draw the names together for different pairings. No one can argue with chance!
- Jennifer W.
- Trill in the Ville My dad called me five days before Christmas of 2006 and told me he wanted a cat. Although there are some arguments now about his “specifics,” I distinctly recall that he requested a Persian cat during this phone call. I figured I would be the true hero of Christmas if I came home with a Persian kitten, so I went about procuring one for him immediately. It’s hard to find a gift that anyone really wants that close to Christmas, but I finally found a shady cat dealer that had Persian cats after scouring the Jacksonville classifieds for an intense 25 minutes.
The Christmas holidays. We love them or we hate them. At times they can become overwhelming for some of us struggling with a career, home and family. Pressure from the media, social networking and family can put unrealistic expectations on us. My advice this season is to make less mean more. Keep it simple and make it fun. Don’t be a Christmas martyr! Get everyone involved. It’s about creating memories, not how much we spend or how big the tree is or who received the best gift.
I was so pumped about being the hero of Christmas. I practiced my entrance in my head during my drive. I finally settled on the “Burst-In-the-Front-DoorScreaming-Surprise” method. Unfortunately, I didn’t get home until well after 10:00 P.M., and my dad goes to bed shortly after Jeopardy goes off. Plan B was to modify the plan by bursting into my parents’ bedroom screaming surprise. My dad woke up. He looked at the cat and then looked at me. I remember him saying something to the effect of, “What’s that?” I went on to explain that I was the hero of Christmas, and I had gotten the kitten he requested. I was beaming. The smile faded quickly once I found out he wanted to put (recently named) Mr. Whiskers-Mittens-SocksBoots-Hairy-Fuzzywigs-Sir-Puddy-Tat-Purvis outside. My dad doesn’t “allow” indoor pets. I informed him that Mr. W would be residing indoors. Dad looked more repulsed than I did when I entered the cat house. Fast forward seven years. They still have Mr. W. Now I know why there was only one kitten left five days before Christmas. He, like my sister and myself, has IBS. He eats specialty food and takes Prednisone daily. He requires twice daily face cleanings and butt wipings. Can someone say HERO? - Denise P.
In making resolutions or goals, I like to think big and start small. For example, if I want to be healthier {think big, broad goal}, instead of committing to 1 year of the next fad diet and/or extreme exercise program, I may vow to try a spinning and a yoga class within the 1st two weeks of January and cook at least 3 out of every 5 meals myself, at home, from scratch...allowing for 1 dessert per week. Breaking my big goal down into a plan of smaller steps allows me to try something new, get creative and still nourish my sweet tooth and also keeps me from turning into an overwhelmed, whiny crab. I always find that no matter what your goal is, having a plan is key. Without the proper preparation, you’re simply making success that much harder. Having a written or typed strategy will give you a place to store your resources: healthy recipes for a food journal, running techniques for your marathon and money-saving tools for your savings plan. You can also track your progress, set deadlines, and use this to outline the different avenues to get you where
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you want to go. For example, I would like my home to be more organized. For some reason, in other areas of my life, I tend to be super organized, but when it comes to my personal space, I let this fall through the cracks. Straightening up this part of my life will make me feel less stressed overall. My first resolution is to sort through my clothing, kitchenware, furniture, storage areas {even my kitchen pantry} - I would set limits on the number of sessions and time spent taking on this project, so that I wouldn’t get overwhelmed by the task and I wouldn’t have too much time to put it off. I would ask myself how long I have had the items, when is the last time I used them and do they have a productive future here? Disburse the underutilized items to Serendipity Consignments, Kaleidoscope Consignments, the Salvation Army, Goodwill Donation Center or a local food bank. My second resolution - to explore my recycling options though the Keep Thomas County Beautiful program. I want to create a recycling area in my home and business and make everyone aware of the new procedures and how they can help. This will expose my creative side and allow me to share my goals with others. - Abrie S. Abrie Soileau is co-owner of Thomasville CrossFit.
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Kick-start your holiday with two festive events on December 19th!
Sign up now at:
www.thomasvillearts.org
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pumpkin spice latte peppermint hot chocolate salted caramel mocha
THE CENTER Drop your child off at the Holiday Art Free for All from 6-10PM at the Thomasville Center for the Arts. Dinner is included + it’s open to any child. Then grab your girlfriends and your favorite beverage and head over to Studio 209 for a Holiday Collage Whet Your Palette from 6:30-8:30PM! You don’t have to be a member, but is a must for both events.
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Bring in a non-perishable food item to receive a discount on a skin care or makeup product! 3 items = 5% 6 items = 10% 12 items = 25% We’ll match your donation and deliver it to the Thomas County Food Bank on December 20th.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center
229-228-7200
Grab a Send a pound of taste of Christmas Tville to Grassroots blend for family and Coffee home. friends.
shop.grassrootscoffee.com
FREE
FREE
DEC 6 - Dec 19 VOLUME 2
DEC 6 - Dec 19 VOLUME 2
FIND US ONLINE AT THOMASVILLETOWNIE.COM
V. C., Cont’d
Dance Card. Extended Shopping Hours! in Downtown Thomasville
Holiday shopping hours on Fridays begin November 29th and go through December 20th.
The Townie Recommends Wiregrass Walks Tours
Historic walking tours of Thomasville during each day of Victorian Christmas - Thursday, December 12th and Friday, December 13th! Victorian Tour {1:30 PM} Old Cemetery Tour {3:00 PM} Big Oak Tour {4:30 PM} Cost is $10/person. Cash only. Children 7 and under are free. Strollers are encouraged. wiregrasswalks.blogspot.com
Issue No.
dance troupes and street theater, children’s activities and appearances by St. Nick himself. According to Brannen, “It has been overheard at the Marshmallow Toasting area: ‘I’ve traveled hundreds of miles for toasted marshmallows, roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate on the brick streets!’” Visitors can also look forward to dining and shopping with your favorite stores or on-street shopping with Victorian-era costumed vendors. If shopping really isn’t your thing, you can pop into the TOSAC theater for warm drinks and refreshments and catch three performances of “Victorian Christmas Sing Along” on Thursday night and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on Friday night at the Storefront Theater at 7:00 PM on both nights. Put on your petticoat, crinoline, crabshells, and frock {or derby and waistcoat} and join 30,000 of your closest Townies at Victorian Christmas! For specific scheduling times, please visit www.thomasvillega.com.
Taste of Thomasville Food Tour Tours are every Friday + Saturday from 10:30 AM -1:30 PM. Victorian Christmas Tour Dates include: Wednesday, December 11th Thursday, December 12th www.tasteofthomasvillefoodtour.com
Victorian Christmas December 12 + 13
See our article on Page 2!
December 12
Birdsong Nature Walks You can step back centuries in the forest, then enjoy the early 1900’s at Victorian Christmas downtown after 6 PM. 4-5:30 PM, Lost Creek Forest. Register at birdsongnaturecenter.org
December 22
Downtown Holiday Open House
Your favorite downtown shops will be open the last Sunday before Christmas!
December 14
Carols and a Cup of Cheer Free Tours, Carols, & Seasonal Refreshments. Donations welcome. 2-5 PM, the Lapham-Patterson House.
December 14
Holly Springs Subdivision Luminary Display Starts at 6 PM.
- Denise P.
Recycling Day Poster Contest “It’s all connected” – a phrase I heard repeatedly while taking a geography course at Thomas University. Professor Misty Penton had an extraordinary way of teaching, and her phrase would inspire many people to do great things. Then bam! Sitting in a tiny classroom with talented mentors and fellow students, I witnessed the beginning stages of a wonderful movement. Pamela Lister took charge, and influenced the institution to take on recycling at full force. Fast forward to the present, and Pamela is the Executive Director of Keep Thomas County Beautiful, a volunteer organization that educates our community about recycling. They recently held their fourth annual “America Recycles Day” poster contest and collection event.
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FACEBOOK.COM/THOMASVILLE.TOWNIE
Archbold Foundation Hosts Annual Tree of Lights Ceremony
The holidays are right around the corner, and for the 26th year, our community will celebrate the spirit of the season with the Archbold Foundation Tree of Lights. For many in South Georgia, it’s a tradition to honor and remember friends and loved ones by making contributions to the Foundation. The Tree of Lights tradition began 26 years ago as part of the effort to raise funds for the first Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center. For the past 16 years, contributions have benefited Hospice of Southwest Georgia. Donors, families and the community are invited to the lighting of the live tree—a ceremony that heralds the beginning of the holiday season and offers a celebration of life and remembrance for attendees. A Hanukkah menorah will also be lit to honor the tradition of the season.
Bookish gifts, for the well-read people in your life Published by Garden & Gun magazine, The Southerner’s Handbook offers a guide to all the lovely things going on below the Mason-Dixon line. Hardback, $27.99. Thomasville, Georgia: A Place Apart. This is a classic and should be on every bookshelf in Thomasville. Hardback,$39.95. The Art of Managing Longleaf details the management system protecting our region’s beautiful longleaf pines. Hardback,$41.95. Thomasville writer Chip Bragg’s latest, Crescent Moon Over Carolina. Hardback, $29.95. Annie {The Bookshelf ’s new owner} can still remember reading and loving The Lion’s Paw way back in the third grade. Read this one out loud together as a family. Hardback, $29.95. .
This year’s ceremony will take place Monday, December 9th, at 6:00 PM, in the lobby of John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital. Guests will enjoy refreshments and music by the Rose City Strings Project and the Brookwood Lower School Chorus, followed by the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. A donation of $10 per individual honored is suggested, but gifts of any size are welcome. Individuals honored and family members of those remembered receive a special card letting them know a gift has been given, with gifts being acknowledged and cards for the Tree of Lights and Hanukkah sent throughout December. For more information about the Archbold Foundation Tree of Lights or to make a donation, call 229-228-2924 or visit www.archboldfoundation.org. - Megan P.
Happy Holidays Downtown.
There were over 200 students who submitted for this year’s theme: “I want to be recycled.” Posters can be viewed at the Thomas County Public Library during the holidays or on the Keep Thomas County Beautiful website at ktcb.org. An accumulation of 34,000 pounds of materials was collected from participating schools from October 21-November 15th. They collected paper, plastic, aluminum, cardboard and glass. Jerger Elementary was the winning school, collecting over 14,000 pounds of material. Other schools that participated were Brookwood School, Hand in Hand Primary, Bishop Hall Charter School, Thomas County Middle School, Harper Elementary, Thomasville Scholars Academy and Favor Christian Academy. - Jon T. Grand Prize Winner: Aubree Denton (11th grade TCCHS). Grades 9-13: 1st: Karson Stone (10th grade Scholars Academy). Second Place: Lyndsae Madden (12th grade TCCHS) Third Place: Emily Corbitt (11th grade TCCHS). Grades 6-8: First Place: Kate Pearce (7th grade Scholars Academy) Second Place: Elli Stone (8th Grade Scholars Academy) Third Place: Brittany Hawkins (8th Grade Scholars Academy). Grades 3-5: First Place: Lamauria Davis (5th grade Favor Christian Academy) Second Place: Jakaiyah McClarin (4th Grade: Favor Christian Academy) Third Place: Mari Wynn (4th Grade Cross Creek). Grades K-2 Frist: Delaney Dyksterhouse (2nd Grade Jerger) Second Place: Icess Flanders (1st Grade Favor Christian) Third Place: Janiya Tucker (2nd Grade Favor Christian Academy).
lie down on your lawn milky way candelabra count the satellites
NEW! Just in time for the Holidays!
Kevin’s T-SHIRTS
kevinscatalog.com • kevinsguns.com
Send your 5-7-5 our way at yourtownie@gmail.com.
111 S. Broad Street Thomasville, GA 229-226-7766 Mon-Sat 9:00-5:30
What could you do with
A Confident Smile? 303 W. Hansell St., Thomasville 229-227 -1447
www.aconfidentsmile.com
Sweet Gifts at Lucy & Leo’s!
We looooo ooooooooo oooooooooo ooooooooove our sponsors! amerisbank.com
COMIX by Laura Floyd
cheery
Your local merchants are turning into elves this month... Let them help you find just the right gifts, and have them wrapped and ready. Holiday hours on Fridays through December 20th!
Benjamin Ashley Gardner
Happy Holidays!
thankful
The Bookshelf on Broad Street
bright
Steaks, Seafood & Southern Cuisine
The Plaza 217 South Broad St., Thomasville (229) 226-5153
www.thomasvilleplaza.com
to advertise, contact yourtownie@gmail.com.
Visit us at The Bookshelf and the TCA on Broad candy shop