scene Established 2007 • Volume 4 No. 6 PUBLISHER Keith Barlow MANAGING EDITOR Natalie Davis ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Erin Simmons CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Michael Evans CREATIVE MANAGER Brooks Hinton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sarah Beth Ariemma Valerie Niblett ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Haley Harper Ashley McKnight GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Hamp Jones Theresa Willis COVER PHOTO Jonathan Jackson
Milledgeville Scene magazine is published by The Union-Recorder bimonthly at 165 Garrett Way, Milledgeville, GA 31061. For more information on submitting story ideas or advertising in Milledgeville Scene, call (478)453-1430. 2 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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CONTENTS
November/December 2011
FEATURES
10
10
The Happiest Season of All
16
Home for the Holidays
24
Filled with the Spirit
30
Family Traditions
36
Smells Like the Holidays
16
36
30
IN EVERY ISSUE From the Editor
6
A little bit about what’s inside from our very own Natalie Davis
Scene and Heard
Find a place to worship
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42
Where to find exactly what you’re craving
8
Arts & Entertainment 44 Current events and things to do around town
Arts and Culture and news of note
Worship Directory
Dining Directory
28
Sightings Scenes from events throughout town
46
ON THE COVER The Nutcracker celebrates 15 years of production in Milledgeville.
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from the editor
“I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!” ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
When the leaves change and the chill hits the air our attention starts to shift to the holiday season. Family dinners and gatherings with friends, coming in from the cold and the warmth of time together are all part of what makes this time, the waning weeks of the year, so special for many of us. Oftentimes, however, in the midst of our daily to do lists and that mountain of tasks before us, we allow those moments to get lost in the shuffle. This year, let’s focus on making of concerted effort to take at least a few moments here and there to take in the season simply for the sake of enjoying it, not solely for the feeling of accomplishment in checking another item off our lists. Inside this edition of Milledgeville Scene, we’ll get you started. Writer Sarah Beth Ariemma gives us a glimpse of some of the upcoming local music and performance festivities to get us in the spirit of
the season. And after we all enjoy the shows, we can all enjoy some of the fresh baked goodies Tabitha Lee makes from scratch at her local bakery. After all, this time of year just isn’t complete without a little overindulgence in Christmas goodies. Writer Valerie Niblett takes us a few miles up the road to Crooked Pines, where many families, hers included, are making holiday memories together at this 82-acre hobby farm owned by Duncan and Angela Criscoe. She also shares with us the history of Westview Baptist Church. Don’t forget to e-mail us your story ideas, and feel free to give us your feedback on this issue. Send us your thoughts at ndavis@unionrecorder.com. Remember, the best memories are made when we take time to savor the moment, and they are meant to be shared — in the giving of our time, our laughter and ourselves. Take it all in this year and enjoy. See you in 2012.
N
atalie
NATALIE DAVIS/MANAGING EDITOR
What gift is at the top of your Christmas list this year? Danielle Fietkau Classifieds I treated myself to a Kindle Fire.
Amy Budrys Classifieds I’m looking to get a 40-inch flat screen television this year, but most importantly, I want to see my three kids’ happy faces on Christmas morning.
Erin Simmons Advertising director I’d like a pea coat and a new lap desk for my computer.
Natalie Davis Managing News Editor I was hoping to get a television, but I got surprised with a new one for my birthday in November. My Christmas list is already complete.
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a look at the arts & culture of Milledgeville and Baldwin County The historic and treasured First Baptist Church, located at 330 S. Liberty St., adorns this year’s Milledgeville Convention and Visitors Bureau Christmas ornament. Originally called Mount Zion Baptist Church and formed in 1806, it took the name of Milledgeville Baptist Church in 1834 when it withdrew from the Ocmulgee Association and entered the Central Association. Although the church was assigned a building lot on the south public square, the first location of the church was on the North Commons at the intersection of Montgomery and Liberty streets. The church was constructed on State House Square by an act of the General Assembly approved December 6, 1822, which authorized all Christian denominations to build upon the State house square houses of worship on half-acre lots. These churches were located on Greene Street facing north. The second location was the North gate Capitol Square by 1830 and burned in 1886. The foundation for the new church was laid in March 1887 and completed in 1888. It was located on North Wayne Street. On Dec. 7, 1952, the church had a membership of 1,200 and moved into its present location on South Liberty Street across from Memory Hill Cemetery. Each year, the CVB ornament highlights a piece of Milledgeville history with a historical structure. The 2010 ornament featured the Campus Theater. The ornament is available for a limited time and only while supplies last. For more information, contact the CVB by calling (478) 452-4687 or by visiting the CVB located at 200 W. Hancock St. in downtown Milledgeville. Enjoy the scenery of Christmases past during Antebellum Christmas at the Old Governor’s Mansion. On Dec. 10, 13 and 17 the mansion will shine throughout the night with candlelight tours featuring traditional holiday music: Sweet Adelines on Saturday, Dec. 10; Georgia College Brass Ensemble on Tuesday Dec. 13; and The Milledgeville Singers Guild on Saturday, Dec. 17. Regular tour hours are available through Dec. 23. Since the mansion’s 2005 restoration, the decorations have been historically accurate. Table tops, bannisters, 8 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
doors and everything else imaginable, are decked out for the holidays using what was available at the time to liven up the hallowed halls and evoke the Christmas spirit. Witness the Old Governor’s Mansion transform into a scene from the 1800s. The beautifully decorated estate, decked out in Christmas greenery, will feature Antebellum décor as the backdrop of the candlelight tours throughout the month of December. The 23-foot Christmas tree in the rotunda will come to life with 5,000 lights, including 1,500 candlelights, 3,000 glass icicles and 1,500 handmade ornaments. Tours feature traditional holiday music in the rotunda. Holiday hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 2 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Each year, a team of volunteers assist in dressing the Old Governor’s Mansion in the spirit of the season as they deck the mansion halls. Regular tours are held on the hour daily. For more information, call (478) 445-4545. The fifth annual Allied Arts Big Click photography exhibition opens Friday, Dec. 2 at the Marlor Arts Center, 201 N. Wayne St. Each year the exhibition features more than 50 pieces shot by photographers from throughout the central Georgia region, each vying for cash prizes and the distinguished honor of garnering “The People’s Choice Award.” Awards will consist of a first place prize of $100, a second place prize of $75 and a third place prize of $50. This year’s opening reception is slated for 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2 as part of the December First Friday event. The People's Choice award will be announced at 6:45 p.m. during the opening reception and the recipient will receive a $50 award. Last year’s exhibition featured 71 works by 38 regional photographers. This year’s works will be on display through Dec. 31. For more information, visit www.milledgevillealliedarts.com or call (478) 452-3950 or for entry form and official rules. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 • MS • 9
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he Brown-Stetson-Sanford House will be open throughout November and December decorated in a festive spirit that hearkens back to Christmases of old. “The Christmas House is in its third year,” Amy Wright, executive director of Milledgeville’s Old Capital Museum said. “It has grown to the point that we have moved the specially themed tours to November to accommodate more individuals. Each year we focus on a different period of history. This year’s theme is ‘Activities on the Home front: Christmas 1861.’” Wright and the committee wanted to correspond this year’s theme with the Old Capital Museum’s latest exhibit, “Tenting Tonight.” The exhibit features letters written from the Civil War soldiers to their families, as well as a full campsite setup. “We wanted to have both the activities at the campsite, and the activities on the home front represented,” Wright said. “Last year’s theme was ‘Magnolias and Memories,’ which gave visitors a look at what Christmas was like before the Civil War.” Daniel and Edith Stetson had a son, William Spivey Stetson, who was 17 years old when he fought in the Civil War. The Stetsons also had a daughter, Lizzie, and another son, James, who was too young to fight in the war when it began. William Stetson joined the Georgia 57th Regiment and survived the Civil War. “Throughout the house we will have activities that might have occurred in the Stetson home. Ladies will be sewing uniforms in the parlor, and Mrs. Stetson will be writing her son a letter. Women will also be rolling bandages, knitting mittens and socks and making quilts. A gentleman will be packing a crate full of supplies for the soldiers out front,” Wright explained. Williams Funeral Home has furnished a Civil War hearse and
Twinkling lights, holiday music and an overwhelming urge to spoil the ones we love make the holiday season a special time for all. This year, Milledgeville residents and visitors will be gifted with a fantastic array of holiday concerts, and tours that reflect the magic of Milledgeville. Even the stodgiest Scrooge’s heart will melt with cheer of the holiday season.
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mourning customes during the Civil War will be revealed. Marsha and Darryl Herren have furnished herbs that were popular for medicines during the Civil War. Visitors will be educated on those herbs and other customs during the time. “The best part about the house tours is sharing the rich history of the house. The house’s families are an intricate part of Milledgeville history, and seeing a form of living reenactments gives people insight into the roles the families had in Milledgeville,” Wright said. The house tours will take place on Nov. 15 through 17. Interested visitors must call the museum for tickets. Tickets are $3 for students and $5 for adults. All of the proceeds will go back into preserving the house. From 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Dec. 6, the annual Victorian Christmas House auction and gala will delight guests with antiques, collectibles and even trips for auction. The Kitchen Genies, Carolyn Pruitt and Theresa Thorton, are preparing heavy appetizers and this year’s auction will be bigger and better than the year before. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the Old Capital Museum, the Milledgeville CVB and J.C. Grant Co.
By Sarah Beth Ariemma
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B
allet shoes, a memorable dream and visions of sugar plums all call to mind one fantastic show: “The Nutcracker.” In its 15th year, the show has become a cherished holiday tradition for Milledgeville. Amelia Pelton, director of dance for Georgia College, has spent hours choreographing the latest show. “It is a big year for us. This year we’ve got something really special that we will do before each performance. We will introduce all of our former Claras and let the community know what they have done after their run as Clara,” Pelton said. Another special highlight is the Sugar Plum Tea. For the 10th anniversary, the Sugar Plum Tea was a rousing success, and Pelton has decided to celebrate the 15th anniversary in the same way. “It is only $5 per person to attend the tea, but we will have sweets, autographs from the cast members in their costumes and plenty of Nutcracker items for sale,” Pelton explained. The Sugar Plum Tea will be held from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. Tickets can be purchased online at gcsutickets.com. Tickets will be available at the door, but purchasing before the event ensures enough food and fun for everyone. The tea will be held in the Sodexo formal dining room on Georgia College’s campus. “I love choreographing the show every year,” Pelton said. “The fun part for me is putting everything together. The dances of ‘Snowflakes’ and ‘Ballet of the Flowers’ are going to be even more intricate this year. The GC Salsa Club will be dancing in the show as ‘Latin America’ and the GC Cheerleaders will once again be the ‘Russians’ in the show. They are always such a hit.” Pelton rarely repeats choreography, so visitors who attended the
show last year will be surprised by all new routines, costumes and atmosphere. Mother Ginger has a new dress, as well as all of the dance students. The show will take place Dec. 9 through Dec. 11 at Russell Auditorium. The auditorium seats 985 people. Dec. 9 and 10 shows will begin at 7 p.m. and Sunday the show will start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 for general seating and $8 for children under 12 and GC students with valid ids. “Come out and celebrate our 15th year celebration,” Pelton said.
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he Rev. Andy Adams of Covenant Presbyterian Church believes every baby should have a bed. Room for a Baby is a musical snack started by Adams eight years ago. The group performs Christmas songs in a special concert with all of the proceeds going to Milledgeville’s Crossroads Pregnancy Center. “When I moved here, I found out about Crossroads Pregnancy Center. Covenant Presbyterian started it, and I realized that I could give a donation, or I could do something even more helpful and start a yearly fundraiser,” Adams said. The group is comprised of Adams, and several Georgia College professors, including Dr. Greg Pepetone and his wife Betty, Dr. Wendy Mullen, Dr. Dan Auerbach, Dr. Liv Ryabinin and Dr. Chesley Mercado. The gifted musicians feel the concert is one of the highlights of the year. “A lot of people have told me that the concert is one of their favorite parts of the holidays,” Adams said. “We always have a dessert reception following the concert and that is very popular. It is a lot of great music and great food
for a great cause.” The concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Covenant Presbyterian Church located at 440 N. Columbia St.
GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE It’s time for The Steinway Series at Georgia Military College. This year the 5 Browns will delight audiences with their Southern sound. The Steinway Holiday Concert will have two showings at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 10 in the Goldstein Auditorium. For more information, contact Georgia Military College at (478) 387-4900. HOMECOMING CONCERT Max Noah Singers 2011 Tour Jennifer Flory, director First Presbyterian Church Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free; donations requested to offset cost of MNS 2011 tour expenses.
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Bayne’s Army store located downtown, is just one local destination that is sure to be at the top of many lists this year.
Area stores stocking the shelves for local shoppers Story by: Sarah Beth Ariemma Photos by Danielle Fields The crinkle of wrapping paper, the joy of giving: what better place to find it than in Milledgeville? Victor Bayne, the co-owner of Bayne’s Army Store, loves Christmas downtown. The gun aficionado calls Bayne’s the “gift headquarters for the outdoors lover,” and the shop is packed with top of the line guns, ammunition, hunting apparel and accessories to complete any hunter or fisher’s collection. “We really depend on Christmas a lot,” Bayne said. “We do a big layaway business with clothes, and boots and all. That is very popular with our customers.” From Nov. 1 until Christmas, the shop sees an influx in customers searching for the latest and greatest in sportsman items. “We stock pretty much everything and we can get almost any gun or ammo you are looking for. If we don’t have it, we will find it for you. This season, we know our Taurus Judge handgun is going to be a best seller. It is a gun for home protection and it also is perfect for hunting and fishing,” Bayne said. During the shopping season, Bayne’s items will maintain their regular price tag, but the store offers an item for every budget. The store sells a large quantity of Benelli shot guns, which, according to Bayne, are the best semi-automatic shot guns on the market. “We sell a lot of archery and bows during the Christmas season,” Bayne said. “I love getting to see all of the people and families downtown during the holidays. Our personal service, selection and special orders are things that keep our customers happy. If we don’t have it, we can usually find out exactly how much it will cost and see how long it will take to get here in the store while our customer is waiting.” Bayne’s will have new holiday hours during the season. The shop will open from 16 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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8 a.m. until 6 p.m. during the week and on Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. and closed on Sunday. The store can be reached at (478) 452-2384. Villane’s Jewelry and Unique Accessories is the ultimate women’s gift store. The shop features handbags, earrings, broaches, necklaces bracelets and a wealth of other unique gifts to stuff stockings and set under the tree. Villane Waldhauer, co-owner, always looks forward to Christmas in downtown Milledgeville. “The fourth quarter really is our best quarter. We have a lot of students and townspeople that shop here, and we will have specials in November and December that will we constantly update on our Facebook page,” Waldhauer said. The deep increase in sales for businesses downtown during the holiday season is thrilling for business owners, but Waldhauer begins to see an increase as early as the October Deep Roots Festival. “The festival really kicks off our holiday sales,” she said. “But we are about to be online with our very own website. Now our customers as far away as California will be able to pick out the perfect gift right from the website and have it shipped to them. Our customers in Atlanta have been requesting a website as well, so we are so happy to be able to offer this soon.” Prices at Villane’s start at $2 and there is a unique gift for every woman. The versatility of a Villane’s necklace or handbag for a holiday party is timeless and the shop offers different styles to please every taste. “I love my customers,” Waldhauer said. “Everybody is in good spirits during the holiday season, and I love hearing my customers when they check out comment about how they have finally found the right gift.” Waldhauer wouldn’t trade her spot downtown for anything. “I love being downtown,” she said. “It is growing, and First Friday has done amazing things for our business. It has been a huge success, and Mainstreet has done a wonderful job cultivating that program.” Villane’s Jewelry and Unique Accessories can be reached at (478) 453- 4847, and is open from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Happy shopping.
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Villane’s Jewelry has gifts for every woman on your list.
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Story and Photos by Valerie Niblett
O
n top of a beautiful hill just a mile past Baldwin High School on Ga. Highway 49 West overlooking acres of forests and foliage sits an unassuming and well-kept building perched upon a crest. Rising toward the heavens from the original portion of the pristine white building is a simple yet majestic steeple promising the way for those who follow. Westview Baptist Church is without as it is within: a simple place with simple people filled with spirit, love and passion ready to embrace outsiders as family and strangers as kin. Throughout the year the energetic congregation hosts weekly gatherings, special events, and meaningful fundraisers to engage its members and the community at large in as many family-friendly and spirit lifting activities as can be managed without losing sight of the heart of fellowship in Christ. Originally named Bible Baptist Church and split from another local Baptist church, Westview held its first service Feb. 10, 1985. “Baptist churches seem to be able to split from another and then continue to grow,” joked the Rev. Jody Branch, pastor of Westview Baptist. With his engaging smile and light-hearted banter, one is inclined to believe him. Branch is not overly concerned with numbers and rarely knows how many noses were counted on any given Sunday or any given event. “All that matters is that they come and be lifted,” he said with a sincerity found in the faithful. Grounded in balanced worship, Pastor Jody describes his spirituality as one would look at a good recipe — just the right amount of everything to create a masterpiece. The softly simmering pot needs constant attention to temperature, ingredients and seasonings, and just like a favorite dish, each person needs to find that balance in his or her personal, spiritual, family and work lives. Focused on bringing Christians of all denominations together, Westview has taken part in many communitygathering events. Several years ago when one of his children became concerned about not finding other Christian peers at school, his father wisely said, “They’re there. It’s just a challenge to find a venue to show it.” It wasn’t long before P.U.S.H. (Pray Until Something Happens) was born in collaboration, providing a weekly backdrop for youth to gather before school in the parking lot or around a flagpole to sing, pray and fellowship. In the spirit of reaching out to others, Westview also houses a food bank for those who find themselves in need. With the economy lacking, the availability of basic food stuffs is important for families struggling or in dire straits. In keeping with the spirit of giving, volunteers from Westview helped serve a Thanksgiving meal last year to the community under the umbrella of Church Central. This year, volunteers from the entire Christian community are invited to lend a hand and a heart Tuesday, Nov. 22, to serve both a Thanksgiving lunch and dinner with Church Central’s lead. “If another group is doing it and doing it well, we would rather lend them a much-needed hand rather than infringe on the good thing they have going,” Pastor Jody said in earnest. This year’s meal promises to be bigger and better than ever, possibly serving more than 600 meals including delivery for shut-ins.
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Serving as minister to the congregation since May 2000, Pastor Jody has brought a sense of family and home to his flock while encouraging each of them to use members’ God-given talents in worship and praise. With a background in theater and music, Pastor Jody’s been blessed with a spirit of creativity. A number of church members are also accomplished musicians and yet others have a passion for theater. Over the past several years, members have worked together to create several unique Christmas events that top the old fashioned pageant of yesteryear by leaps and bounds. A recent favorite was “A Rose in Winter,” spearheaded by Leanne Goins Branch, which received rave reviews from the community. Full of nostalgia and meaningful symbolism, this little play touched many hearts. Two years ago, visitors were taken on a trip through time Scroogestyle, winding from the current state of the world through the ages stopping at various stages to witness vignettes of Christ’s presence on earth. The final destination was Bethlehem and the birth of the Savior. The moving musical event was capped with prayer partners for those wishing for a little spiritual boost. Cocoa and cookies were served, and children were able to enjoy some outdoor sledding with creative props while adults watched with hidden envy while tapping toes to spirit lifting musical Christmas classics. Last year, the members of Westview presented “Christmas in Cricket County,” which was a humorous musical with the premise of Beverly Hills meets the country cousins. Finding the true meaning in Christmas comes to both families through a deeper understanding of Christ. Lighthearted and spirited, the play was as fun to perform as it was to watch. “This year’s production is from the same company as last year’s,” explained Pastor Jody. “Away from the Manger” will be on stage Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18. It’s a bit shorter in content, equal in lighthearted humor, but long in meaning. “After the play, there will be the magic of a live nativity scene on display in the church basement, along with cookies and cocoa and space offered for spiritual connection with some of our members.” Fellowship is important to the good folks at Westview. Sometimes the stress and heaviness of the holidays overtakes a person and a good old-fashioned come-to-Jesus spiritual readjustment is just what the pastor ordered. “Many people get bogged down in the commercial aspect of the holidays,” noted Pastor Jody. Celebrating the birth of the Savior and letting go of demands and expectations of others helps to make the season a bit brighter. Realizing that all are perfect in God’s eyes despite any shortcomings is important. When asked what the community should know about the little congregation on the hill, Pastor Jody remarked with a smile, “Our motto or catch phrase is ‘There’s a place for you at Westview.’ Those few words sum it up perfectly.” Appreciating the gifts each person has been blessed with as well as the differences that make each individual unique and bringing it all together for the glory and grace of God is the way they do it up there. For more information and location for the Thanksgiving meal to be served Tuesday, Nov. 22, or times for this year’s Christmas production of “Away from the Manger,” Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18, call Westview Baptist Church by phone at (478) 452-9140, e-mail westview49@windstream.net or visit the website at www.westviewbaptist49.com . Westview Baptist Church is located at 275 Ga. Highway 49 West approximately one mile from Baldwin High School on the right. 26 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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Living Word Church of God 151 W. Charlton St. 478-452-7151 Milledgeville Christian Center The Sheep Shed 120 Ivey Dr. 478-453-7710
worship directory Antioch Primitive Baptist Church 512 NW Monticello Rd. 478-968-0011 Located at 2988 Hwy. 441 N. Lake Sinclair Inside the Ranch Park Complex
Call for your next quote
478-451-0865 THE ONLY INSURANCE AGENCY OUT AT THE LAKE!
Baldwin Church of Christ 57 Marshall Rd. 478-452-5440 Bible Rivival Church 101 Deerwood Dr. 478-452-4347 Black Springs Baptist Church 673 Sparta Hwy NE 478-453-9431 Body of Christ Deliverance Church 140 SW Effingham Rd. 478-453-4459
First United Methodist Church Central Church of Christ of
Milledgeville
366 Log Cabin Road Milledgeville, GA 31061
478-452-4597
359 NE Sparta Hwy 478-451-0322 Church of God 385 Log Cabin Rd. 478-452-2052 Church of Jesus Christ 1700 N Jefferson St. 478-452-9588
“Where Caring Comes From the Heart”
325 Allen Memorial Drive
453-8514
Community Life Baptist Church 1340 Orchard Hill Rd. 478-414-1650 Community Baptist Church 143 NE Log Cabin Rd. 478-453-2380
Countyline Baptist Church 1012 Hwy 49W 478-932-8105 Countyline Primitive Baptist Church 120 NW Neriah Rd. 478-986-7333
First United Methodist Church 366 Log Cabin Rd. 478-452-4597 Flagg Chapel Baptist Church 400 W. Franklin St. 478-452-7287
Covenant Baptist Church 264 Ivey Dr. SW 478-452-0567
Flipper Chapel AME 136 Wolverine St. 478-453-7777
Covenant Presbyterian Church 440 N. Columbia St. 478-453-9628 Discipleship Christian Center Church 113 SE Thomas St. 478-452-7755 Elbethel Baptist Church 251 N. Irwin St. 478-452-8003 Emmanuel Baptist Church 384 Gordon Hwy 478-453-4225
First Presbyterian Church 210 S. Wayne St. 478-452-9394
Freewill Fellowship Worship Center 115 Cook St. 478-414-2063
Hopewell United Methodist Church 188 Hopewell Church Rd. 478-453-9047
Friendship Baptist Church 685 E Hwy 24 478-452-0507 Friendship Baptist Chapel 635 Twin Bridges Rd. 478-968-7201
Green Pasture Baptist Church 150 N. Warren St. 478-453-8713
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 110 NW O’Conner Dr. 478-452-8887 Lakeshore Community Church 882 Twin Bridges Rd. 478-986-7331 Life and Peace Christian Center 116 SW Frank Bone Rd. 478-453-3607
Church Events • Family Reunions School Events & Clubs T-Shirts-Jackets • Caps
“We Outsell Because We Outserve”
453-9335
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 2701 Irwinton Rd. 478-452-7854
HATTAWAY SCREEN PRINTING
CENTRAL GEORGIA BATTERY COMPANY 3020 Heritage Road Milledgeville, GA
Hardwick Baptist Church 124 Thomas St. 478-452-1612 Hope Lutheran Church 214 W Hwy 49 478-452-3696
Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church 171 Harrisburg Rd. 478-452-9115
First Baptist Church 330 S. Liberty St. 478-452-0502
Heartland Independant Baptist Church 107 Collins Circle Milledgeville, GA
Freedom Church, Inc. 500 Underwood Rd. 478-452-7694
Grace Baptist Church 112 Alexander Dr. 478-453-9713
Faith Point Church of Nazarene 700 Dunlap Rd. 478-451-5365
Gumhill Baptist Church 1125 Hwy 24 478-452-3052
Service for Generations
112 Joyner Rd. Milledgeville, GA 31061
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478-452-7576
149 Garrett Way
(478) 452-0514
478-452-6435 800-792-8228
Miracle Healing Temple 133 Central Ave. 478-452-1369 Missionaries of Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints 141 Frank Bone Rd. 478-452-5775 Montpelier United Methodist Church 449 Sparta Hwy 478-453-0040 Mosleyville Baptist Church 106 SE Oak Dr. 478-452-1723 Mount Nebo Baptist Church 338 Prosser Rd. 478-452-4288 Mount Pleasant Baptist Church 265 SW Mt Pleasant Church Rd. 478-452-7978 Milledgeville Study Group 140 Chase Ct. 478-414-1517 New Beginning Church of Christ 325 Hwy 49 478-454-5489 New Beginning Worship Center 200 Southside SE 478-696-9104
WHIPPLE OFFICE EQUIPMENT Sales & Service Since 1964
New Covenant Community Outreach Ministries 321 E. Hancock St. 478-453-3709 New Hope Baptist Church 345 E. Camden St. 478-452-0431 New Life Fellowship Church 123 Ennis Rd. 478-414-7654
Tabernacle of Praise 304 Hwy 49 W. 478-451-0906
Rock Mill Baptist Church 2770 N. Columbia St. 478-451-5084 Sacred Heart Catholic Church 110 N. Jefferson St. 478-452-2421
Torrance Chapel Baptist Church 274 Pancras Rd. 478-453-8542
Salvation Army Corps Community Center 478-452-6940
New Life Foursquare Church 112 Jacqueline Terrace 478-452-1721
Trinity Christian Methodist Church 321 N. Wilkinon St. 478-457-0091
Salem Baptist Church 125 Salem Church Road 478-456-4285
New Life Ministries 1835 Vinson HWY SE
Northridge Christian Church 321 Log Cabin Rd. 478-452-1125 Northside Baptist Church 1001 N. Jefferson St. 478-452-6648 Oak Grove Baptist Church No. 1 508 Hwy 49 478-453-3326 Oak Grove Independent Methodist Church 121 Lingold Dr. 478-453-9564 Old Bethel Holiness Church 866 SE Stembridge Rd. 478-451-2845 Pathfinder Christian Church 120 N. Earnest Byner St. 478-453-8730 Pine Ridge Baptist Church 657 Old Monticello Rd. 478-986-5055
Union Missionary Baptist Church 135 Prosser Rd. 478-453-3517
Seventh Day Adventist 509 N. Liberty St. 478-453-3839 Seventh Day Adventist Church of Milledgeville 156 Pettigrew Rd. 478-453-8016
Vaughn Chapel Baptist Church 1980 N. Jefferson St. 478-452-9140
Shiloh Baptist Church 204 Harrisburg Rd. 478-453-2157
Victory Baptist Church 640 Meriweather Road 478-452-2285
Sinclair Baptist Church 102 Airport Rd. 478-452-4242
Invoice Sale! Stop in for Details
(478) 452-4538
2353 River Ridge Road Milledgeville, Ga 31061
(478) 452-6474
BECKHAM’S USED CARS
800 N. Jefferson St.
452-1909 • 452-8208
Wesley Chapel Foundation House 211 S Clark St. 478-452-9112
Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church 994 Sparta Hwy 478-451-5429 Saint Mary Baptist Church Hwy 212 478-986-5228
Westview Baptist Church 273 W Hwy 49 478-452-9140
Saint Paul Baptist Church 485 Meriweather Rd. 478-986-5855
Zion Church of God in Christ 271 E. Camden 478-453-7144
ACCOUNTING & TAX
ANNIVERSARY
Wesley Chapel AME Church 1462 SE Elbert St 478-452-5083
Spring Hill Baptist Church 396 Lake Laurel Rd. 478-453-7090
HARGROVE
26 YEAR
Union Baptist Church 720 N. Clark St. 478-452-8626
Second Macedonia Baptist Church 2914 SE Vinson Hwy 478-452-3733
New Vision Church of God in Christ 941 NE Dunlap Rd. 478-414-1123
G&S GAS SERVICE
1201 N. Columbia St.
Locally Owned and Operated 507 S. Wayne St.
453-7531
452-3625
Typewriters • Cash Registers • Copiers
100 East Hancock St (478) 452-3710
Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church 220 S. Wayne St. 478-452-2710
Rock of Ages Baptist Church 601 W. Montgomery St 478-453-8693
478-452-8080 812 N. Columbia St. at the railroad tracks
Milledgeville, GA 31061
EVANS AUTOMOTIVE YOUR COMPLETE CARE CENTER
1525 N. Columbia St.• Milledgeville, GA 31061
478-452-5448
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Crooked Pines Farms brings warmth for the holiday season By VALERIE NIBLETT
Holiday traditions are important to many families, mine included. Each year when the dusty, heavy tote boxes of decorations are pulled out of the attic and stacked near the hearth, the excitement begins to rise as quickly as the flame of the new scented candles on the mantle. Cherished holiday heirlooms are unpacked and reverently placed around the house. Each tiny foil angel or bendy elf holds a memory in its folded hands or under its colorful cap. Those timehonored memories are shared with the new generation that will eventually be entrusted with passing the memory-laden heirlooms to the next and so on. Traditions stretch from favorite sweet recipes, social events, delightful music, spiritual celebrations, visits with Santa Claus, and the annual selecting of the Christmas tree. A myriad of fantastical events await holiday-goers. This year our family, along with many others, will begin a new tradition of visiting a local destination filled with the promise of making new memories not just during the holidays, but throughout the year. Crooked Pines Farm, an 82-acre hobby farm located on Harmony Road 30 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
in Putnam County, opened its doors to the public Thanksgiving Day 2010. Duncan and Angela Criscoe and their sons, Kyle and Dawson, have created a family-friendly atmosphere with adventures for every season. “Last year we started with 200 Christmas trees on Thanksgiving Day,” said Duncan while seated in the middle of the rustic country store on the property. “This year, we’re planning on at least 300 freshly cut North Carolina Fraser Fir trees.” Cut the week prior to delivery at another family-friendly farm in Sparta, N.C., the trees arrive ready to be plunged into water where they stay hydrated and fed until chosen, bundled and strapped to a vehicle on their way to a cozy home to be strung with lights and tinsel. “Our trees are guaranteed fresh and not to drop their needles,” Duncan said with a hint of pride. Some needles are expected to drop naturally, but these trees will hold on to their greenery through the season provided they are kept watered and from drying out from excessive heat. Fraser Firs were chosen because of their sturdy branches, short needles, balanced shape, and of course, the ever-present pine aroma. Fresh wreaths and garland are also on hand. The tree lot is open Monday, Nov. 21, through the middle of December, complete with the old-fashioned bare light bulbs of yesteryear lighting the way. The official holiday celebration is set for 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, with free admis-
sion. Local vendors will display their wares, and gifts will be available for purchase in the country store. Holiday hay rides through Christmas Town, hot chocolate and apple cider, and live music are planned to spice up the festivities. Santa Claus will make an appearance for the kiddies, and a craft area will be set up for the little ones to make a decoration to take home with them. Two signature goodies will be available for purchase. One is the Crooked Pines Barbecue Sundae served in a cup with pulled pork barbecue, a layer of baked beans, a scoop of cole slaw drizzled with barbecue sauce and topped with a cherry tomato. The other is a family favorite featuring a campfire kit consisting of a hot dog to roast over an open fire, a bun, chips and a drink, and of course, graham crackers, marshmallow and chocolate for a homemade outdoor S’more. “Families who visited with us last year are calling asking when the trees will be available this year,” Duncan marveled. “And what’s even more wonderful is that the folks who have visited us throughout the year at spring, summer and fall events are planning on returning in November and December.” The magic of family is not lost on the Criscoes. Duncan grew up enjoying the great outdoors from sun up to sun down. Wanting to get back to that mindset away from the electronic buzz and bring his family with him was a turning point in Duncan’s life. Having lost his job in the service industry a few years ago, he knew it was time for a change. Purchasing the NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 • MS • 31
farm and asking Angela to agree to a few animals, a large garden and the possibility of opening the experience to the public wasn’t a hard sell. Promising to take care of the livestock and not expect her to muck out stalls or shovel the chicken coop, Duncan held on to the reigns and led the family into its new adventure. “It wasn’t long before Angela told me that every farm has to have a pig,” Duncan remembers with an appreciative smile. “She jumped online and researched pot belly pigs, and I found myself driving to Alabama with her to look at one. We came home with two.” The Criscoes now have three — one of which stays in the house and sleeps in a corner of their bedroom. The Criscoes’ oldest son, Kyle, arrived in a spray of gravel while Duncan and I talked. He politely stepped into the country store, smiled shyly and told his dad he was going up to the house to change so he could spread the last coat of paint on the chicken coop before it rained again. What parent wouldn’t be proud of their college-aged son taking care of whatever needs to be done without having to badger or cajole? “Kyle’s taken an interest in farming,” Duncan said with unbridled enthusiasm. “He’s been talking to us about crop rotation and how each successive planting uses the previous
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plant’s nutrients for nourishment and optimal growth.” Having participated in Harvest Friends this past growing season, Kyle’s research and ideas are much welcomed. Harvest Friends is a 15-week program during the summer where participants receive a half-bushel of produce from the garden. What’s included in the basket is based on what is in season at the time. If the pickings are slim, Crooked Pines will supplement the basket with locally farm grown produce to make up the difference. If there’s a bumper crop, participants will also reap those benefits. Animals on the farm include two miniature donkeys with a little one due soon, three miniature horses —soon to be four, three rescue horses, Nigerian dwarf goats, pot belly pigs, chickens, turkeys and giant Flemish rabbits. The chickens produce eggs the Criscoes sell for $3.50 per dozen. Horseback riding lessons are available upon request on location by a local equestrian instructor. Educational tours are available during all seasons. Church groups, scouts, local schools all have made reservations for the educational aspect of animal and plant life. Experiencing farming on a manageable basis and close up intrigues children and adults alike. Birthday parties, private tours and functions can be held at
any time during the year. There are no public events held in January and February, giving the Criscoes time to plan for the coming year. March brings the Spring Fling and preparation of the fields for crops. The Easter Egg Launch and Lunch is held in the spring with prizes for the three longest Easter egg launches from the launch site into the pasture followed by a ham luncheon with all of the fixings. April and May hold possibilities for weekend activities and spring planting and harvest programs. “Summer camps were big last year,” Duncan said. “We’re looking at adding several more counselors and added activity space for next year. The kids had a blast.” Arriving ready to dig deep and get dirty, campers were outside experiencing farming first hand. Caring for animals, tending to crops, playing games, learning about the environment and generally exhausting themselves with activities had them leaving tired, ready for a bath and excited about the following day’s adventure. The first weekend in October kicks off the annual pumpkin festival featuring a pumpkin patch, crafts and activities, and haunted hay rides. “We’re happy to have folks who were with us in the spring
or during summer camps come back to pick out pumpkins and enjoy the crisp fall weather.” Family Fun on the Farm Friday Nights runs through November and the first three Fridays in December from 5 to 8 p.m. Activities include hayrides, FirePit Kits, and kids’ crafts all for a very reasonable price. Crooked Pines is looking to provide a unique family experience each week with storytellers, live music, or some kind of activity appropriate for all ages. “We’re in the business of providing good old-fashioned fun on the farm for all of our visitors,” Duncan said with a friendly smile. “We don’t know a stranger. People arrive as friends and leave as family.” It’s obvious to anyone who talks to any of the Criscoes that they have a passion for what they do. “We’re not in this to get rich,” Duncan stated with sincerity and conviction. “We’re in this to make a living. We want to provide an affordable place for families to gather and create memories.” Crooked Pines is located at 355 Harmony Road in Eatonton. For detailed directions or information on upcoming events, visit their website at www.crookedpinesfarm.com or call them at (706) 347-0274.
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I
t’s beginning to look (and smell) a lot like the holidays. Nothing brings the family around the table quite like a fresh pie gooey with filling out of the oven or a casserole that has been baked to perfection. At first glance, Tabitha’s Bakery is in an unassuming location. The quaint tables with red-and-white checkered tablecloths adorning them seem fairly typical for a bakery. What isn’t typical is the enticing smell of freshly baked breads, hearty soups and divine entrees that owner Tabitha Lee creates fresh every day. Lee is a seasoned chef, using only her own recipes to delight customers. Lee broke into the Central Georgia market three years ago when she decided to sell her homemade concoctions at farmer’s markets in the area. Her first steps included baking cinnamon buns and dinner rolls to sell at the markets. The business began as only a bakery in September 2010, but during the year, Lee has found immense success with entrees, lunch items and frozen meals that can be consumed later. “During the week, we sell more lunch and dinner items than baked goods, but during the weekends, our baked goods are very popular. Introducing dinner items has really helped my business.
Story by Sarah Beth Ariemma Photos by Danielle Fields
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I think people just like the convenience of being able to pick up a home-cooked meal,” Lee said. Besides selling within her restaurant, Lee also sells food to Spillin’ the Beans coffee shop in Eatonton, and will expand her restaurant clientele next year. With wintertime and the holidays approaching, Lee completely reworked her menu to include fewer cold sandwiches and more soups and hot sandwiches, as well as desserts that are only sold during the holidays. “We are going to keep hot items in stock every day at any time of the day. We will still have the cold sandwiches, but we are going to have more hot items as our main focus. I’ve also been getting into catering as well. I’m looking forward to doing even more catering in the coming months. We do dessert platters, sandwiches, soups and cakes, as well as anything else the customer desires,” Lee said. Discounts are possible on large orders of more than $100. This year during the holidays, Lee will place her baked goods into more stores, and will sell decorated holiday cakes and cookies, as well as traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas meal items. During the holidays, Lee creates caramel cakes that have become a popular dessert staple at dinners all over the Central Georgia area. “We’ve expanded our dinner entrees,” Lee said. “The entrees are fresh on Friday and Saturday and frozen for the rest of the week. We are also going to be expanding a new line of healthier entrée items for our customers who are mindful of their health.” The new line includes low fat, low sodium and sugarfree items to ensure that everyone can enjoy a home-cooked meal or dessert. “I wanted to create a healthier line of products because I have always been very mindful of my older customers and of my customers who are watching their health,” Lee said. Lee’s inspiration for her menu comes from her background. “I’m simply Southern and it reflects in my food. I love making bread, and our chicken salad and pecan pie bars and caramel cakes are our top selling items. Our wedding cookies and chicken divan are also favorites,” Lee said. Lee’s family always enjoyed rich cakes and typical Southern fare during the holidays. She said the kitchen was a favorite place to congregate during the holidays. “It is the biggest part of the year. I am making Vinarterta, an Icelandic prune cake, which is seven layers of spiced cookies with a rich, thick prune filling between each layer topped with vanilla white icing. I am also privileged to have a special recipe from Mr. Littleton that he calls ‘Mom’s Holiday Cookies.’ Mr. Littleton has handed down the recipe to me from his deceased mother, who won a prize in a bake-off in the 1940s. It contains a very special, and very secret ingredient that I have promised not to reveal,” Lee said. Other holiday favorites include cranberry orange pound cakes, gingerbread with lemon glaze and original style, a special recipe for fruitcake, fruitcake cookies, and a Japanese fruitcake. The story of the Japanese fruitcake is one that Lee treasures. 38 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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“When you come to the bakery, you will be enjoying recipes that have been handed down to me from generations. My customers have given some of my recipes to me. The Japanese fruitcake came from a customer who told me that I cooked like their grandmother who had been dead for half a century. It is absolutely delicious,” Lee said. The bakery will also be selling sweetbreads, hot vegetables and feature a revamped breakfast menu. As always, the shop will feature fresh breads, pizza crust and pies made-to-order or made-to-slice. “Instead of buying from a company, shop locally. Major store brands are full of preservatives. When you buy your food from me, you know that you are getting a real, homemade meal free of preservatives. I never take any shortcuts here. Everything, from the breads to the sauce, is made completely from scratch,” Lee said. As the year draws to a close, Lee is excited about its conclusion. It has been a banner year for the young businesswoman, and her thoughts are always for her customers. “What I look forward to most about the holidays is that we finally will have made it through the year and all my customers are well-fed and happy,” she said. Tabitha’s Bakery is located on 3061 N. Columbia St. Suite E, and is open from 7:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The bakery is closed on Sundays and Mondays. For more information about catering, or the menu, call (478) 454-5223, or email at handmadehomebaked@gmail.com
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dining directory The Brick 136 W Hancock St. Milledgeville (478) 452-0089
Country Buffet 1465 SE Jefferson St., Milledgeville (478) 453-0434
AJ’s Hotwings & More 2601 North Columbia St. Ste 4 Milledgeville (478) 804-0101
Bruster’s Ice Cream 1801 North Columbia St Milledgeville (478) 453-1303
Dairy Queen 1105 S Wayne St., Milledgeville (478) 452-9620
Amici Italian Cafe 101 W Hancock St. Milledgeville (478) 452-5003
Burger King 2478 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 453-3706
Domino’s Pizza 1909-B N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 453-9455
Applebee’s 106 NW Roberson Mill Rd. Milledgeville (478) 453-8355
Captain D’s Seafood 2590 N. Columbia St, Milledgeville (478) 452-3542
Down South Seafood 972 Sparta Hwy Milledgeville (478) 452-2100
119 Chops 30 W. Main St. Milledgeville
Asian Bistro & Grill 124 W. Hancock St. Milledgeville (478-452-2886 Aubri Lane’s 114 S Wayne St. Milledgeville (478) 454-4181 Barberito’s Restaurant 148 W Hancock St Milledgeville (478) 451-4717 Blackbird Coffee 114 W Hancock St. Milledgeville (478) 454-2473 Bo Jo’s Cafe 3021 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 453-3234
Chick-Fil-A 1730 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 451-4830 W. Hancock St., Milledgeville (478) 452-0585 Chili’s Bar & Grill 2596 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 452-1900 China Garden 1948 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 454-3449 China Wings 3 1071 S. Wayne St., Milledgeville (478) 453-3655 Church’s Chicken 620 N Jefferson St., Milledgeville (478) 414-1808
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Dukes Dawghouse 162 Sinclair Marina Rd Milledgeville (478) 453-8440 El Amigo Mexican Restaurant 2465 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 453-0027 El Tequila 1830 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 414-1702 Golden Corral 1913 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 414-1344 Goodie Gallery 812 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-8080
Kai Thai 2600 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville 478-454-1237
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant 1304 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 452-5200 Grits 132 Hardwick St. Milledgeville (478) 453-2520 Harold’s BBQ 411 Pea Ridge Rd. Eatonton 706-485-5376 Haynes Snack Bar 113 SW Davis Dr. Milledgeville (478) 453-4155 Huddle House 300 E. Hancock St. Milledgeville (478) 452-2680 206 NW Roberson Mill Rd., Milledgeville (478) 452-3222 IHOP 2598 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 452-0332 Jackson’s at Sinclair 3065 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 453-9744 James Fish and Chicken 905 S Wayne St. Milledgeville (478) 453-8696 Judy’s Country kitchen 1720 N. Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 414.1436
Kuroshima Japan 140 W. Hancock St., Milledgeville (478) 451-0245 Lieu’s Peking Restaurant 2485 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 804-0083 Little Tokyo Steak House 2601 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-8886 Margarita’s Mexican Grill 2400 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 453-9547 McDonald’s 2490 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-1312 611 S Wayne St., Milledgeville (478) 452-9611 McDonald’s Wal-Mart, Milledgeville (478) 453-9499 Mellow Mushroom 2588 N. Columbia St., Milledgeville 478-457-0144 Metropolis Cafe 138 N. Wayne St., Milledgeville 478-452-0247 Octagon Cafe Milledgeville Mall (478) 452-0588
Old Clinton Barbecue 2645 N. Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 454-0080 Old Tyme Dogs 451 W. Montgomery St. Milledgeville Original Crockett’s Family Cafeteria and Catering 1850 N. Columbia St. Suite 10 Milledgeville (478)804-0009 Paradise Country BBQ 111 Old Montgomery Hwy Milledgeville (corner Hwy 441 N. & Log Cabin Rd) (478) 452-8008 Papa John’s Pizza 1306 N Columbia Street, Milledgeville (478) 453-8686 Papa and Nana’s Wang House 174 Gordon Hwy SW Milledgeville (478) 414-1630 Pickle Barrel Cafe & Sports Pub 1892 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-1960 Pizza Hut 650 W Wayne St., Milledgeville (478) 453-3703 2511 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 452-7440 Puebla’s Mexican Restaurant 112 W Hancock St, Milledgeville (478) 452-1173
Quizno’s Subs 1827 N Columbia St, Milledgeville (478) 451-0790
Taco Bell 2495 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-2405
Ruby Tuesday’s 2440 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-5050
Velvet Elvis 118 W Hancock St., Milledgeville (478) 453-8226
Shrimp Boat 911 S Elbert St. Milledgeville (478) 452-0559
Vinson Diner 2136 SE Vinson Hwy, Milledgeville (478) 453-1171
Sonic Drive In 1651 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 451-0374
Waffle House 1683 N Columbia St Milledgeville (478) 452-9507 3059 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 451-2914
Sonny’s Brew’N Que 120 N. Greene St., Milledgeville (478) 452-0004 Soul Master Barbecue & Lounge 451 N Glynn St. Milledgeville (478) 453-2790 Subway 1692 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 453-2604
Wendy’s 2341 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 453-9216 Zaxby’s 1700 N Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 452-1027
Subway 2600 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 804-9976 Super China Buffet 1811 N. Columbia St., Milledgeville (478) 451-2888
Is your restaurant not listed? Email your restaurant’s name, address and phone number to be added to our directory. ndavis@unionrecorder.com
Sylvia’s Grille 2600 N Columbia St. Milledgeville (478) 452-4444
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arts & entertainment December 13 Max Noah Singers 2011 Tour Homecoming Concert. First Presbyterian Church. 7:30 p.m. Free admission, donations requested. December 3-23 “Christmas in the Mansion.” Old Governor’s Mansion Holiday Tours. (478) 4454545 Ongoing “Curtis Stewardson: A Solo Show.” Georgia College Museum Focus Gallery. Through September 21. (478) 445-4391. “The Surveyed Extent.” Sandra Trujillo. Georgia College Museum Entry Gallery. Through September 21. (478) 445-4391. 2010-2011 President’s Hall Student Exhibition. Georgia College Department of Art. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday Parks Hall, 3rd floor. Call (478) 445-4572 for more information. “Labor Behind the Veil.” Old Governor’s Mansion. Tours by appointment only. A historically documented tour that provides mansion visitors a glimpse of the working lives of men and women who lived and worked on the mansion grounds. Call (478) 445-4545. “The Collections Tour.” Old Governor’s Mansion. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. TuesdayFriday (by appointment only). $15 for adults; $8 for seniors; $10 for groups; $4 for students. Hear an in-depth discussion on the Mansion’s varied material and textile collections, the process of building the collection, recent restoration, and culminating in the methodologies employed in locating both original and period appropriate pieces and materials for display within the museum. Call (478) 445-4545. Attractions Andalusia Flannery O’Connor’s Farm, North Columbia Street, (478) 454-4029, www.andalusiafarm.org. Open to the public Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bartram Forest In 1794, Native Americans inhabited the Bartram Forest. Today, educational hiking trails allow visitors to see centuries of abundant wildlife, natural wetlands, and an erosion ravine with soil that is a remnant of the ancient shallow seas that covered Georgia 50 to 100 million years ago. Three looping trails cover this natural wonder. 2892 Highway 441 South. (478) 445-2119. Blackbridge Hall Art Gallery 111 South Clarke St., (478) 445-4572, www.gcsu.edu/art, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This art gallery exhibits regional, national and internationally recognized contemporary artists. It also presents GCSU senior art major exhibitions at the end of each semester.
reports to medical equipment, to client’s personal effects, the museum’s contents tell the story of the history of mental health treatment in the United States and the unique story of the hospital once renowned as the largest “insane asylum” in the world. Central State Hospital Museum tours are available by appointment only. For information call Terea Jacobs at (478) 445-4128. www.centralstatehospital.org. Flannery O’Connor Room Dillard Russell Library, GCSU campus, University session. On display are manuscripts from O’Connor’s personal collection of more than 700 books and journals. The room is furnished in the Victorian style of the 1870s. Most of these items were brought from Andalusia, the farm where O’Connor lived and wrote the major portion of her fiction. For information (478) 445-0988. GCSU Natural History Museum Herty Hall, Room 143, Wilkinson Street (478) 445-0809 for hours; also open by appointment. Visit the Paleozoic, Mesozioc and Cenozoic eras and see fossils from Georgia and across the world. The museum offers an explanation of the history of life through geological time. Georgia’s Old Capital Museum 201 East Greene St., Old Capital Building ground floor, (478) 453-1803,www.oldcapitalmuseum.org, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Experience real Civil War history in the building where Georgia legislators voted to secede from the Union and learn about Native Americans who lived in the area before European settlement. The Old Capital Building was the first public building designed in the Gothic Revival style.
Memory Hill Cemetery Originally designated as one of the four public squares of twenty acres each in the Milledgeville town plan of 1803, it later came to be known as Cemetery Square. Many people associated with Milledgeville and Georgia history, such as L.Q.C. Lamar, Congressman Carl Vinson, and Flannery O’Connor, as well as early Georgia governors, legislators, college presidents, slaves, and soldiers, are buried here. Liberty and Franklin streets; www.friendsofcems.org/MemoryHill. Milledgeville Convention & Visitors Bureau The CVB offers guided trolley tours Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Group tickets available by request, as well as step-on guides at the CVB, 200 W. Hancock St. Office hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed holidays. For additional information call (478) 4524687 or 1-800-653-1804 or visit www.milledgevillecvb.com Museum & Archives of Georgia Education A two-story clapboard with Corinthian columns and a Palladian window are highlights of this former private residence, which now provides space for the historical records, artifacts and memorabilia documenting the development of education in Georgia. The museum is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, during regular GCSU sessions. For information call (478) 445-4391. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, circa 1841, was consecrated in 1843. A Gothic roof now replaces the original flat roof destroyed by the explosion of the nearby arsenal during the Civil War. Of special interest is the chancel window of Old English glass, a gift from Christ Church in Savannah. Early parishioner Capt. John Wilcox created the hand-carved chancel furniture. Located at 220 S. Wayne St.
Tours Milledgeville’s Trolley Tour A drive through the landmark Historic District includes rotating visits to the Old Governor’s Mansion, c. 1838, Old State Capitol, c. 1807, Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church, c. 1841, Lockerly Hall, c. 1839 and the Stetson-Sanford House, c. 1825. Tours are available at 10 a.m. Monday through Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday. Adults $10; children ages 6 to 16 $5. Tours begin at Convention & Visitors Bureau, 200 West Hancock St. (800) 653-1804 or (478) 452-4687. The Old Governor’s Mansion The Old Governor’s Mansion, located at 120 S. Clarke St., was the home of 10 Georgia governors. Built in 1838, it is a superb example of Greek Revival architecture and was restored in 1967. Open for tours Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with tours at the top of each hour. Closed on Monday, Thanksgiving, and the week after Christmas until New Year’s. Admission charged. For information (478) 445-4545. Georgia’s Antebellum Capitol Museum Located at 201 E. Greene St., the Antebellum Capitol Museum is housed in the Old Capitol Building, and tours are available Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday noon to 4 p.m. For more information call (478) 453-1803. Olive Forge Herb Garden Located at 161 Brown’s Crossing Road in Haddock, the garden is open every Thursday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Still Room is always stocked with herbal goodies to eat, smell or wear. Call ahead during the summer months. Workshops available for groups of 7 to 15 participants and must be scheduled at least three weeks in advance and prepaid. For more information (478) 932-5737. oliveforge@alltel.net E-mail your events to ndavis@unionrecorder.com. Please include time, date, location, including address, cost for the vent and a contact phone number.
Georgia War Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery 2617 Carl Vinson Highway, (478) 445-3363. John Marlor Art Center 201 North Wayne St., (478) 452-3950, www.milledgevillealliedarts.com. This facility is one of three historic buildings that make up the Allied Arts Center. This area was once known as “The Strip,” which was the heart of the African-American district until the 1980s. It is a beautiful Milledgeville-Federal/Early Greek Revival. Originally two-over-two clapboard with shed rooms and an open dogtrot porch. It now houses arts offices and the Marlor Art Gallery. The Allen’s Market Building, across from the John Marlor Art Center, is a 1911 building that has been adapted into theatre, meeting and studio space. Visitors are given guided tours of current exhibitions. Allied Arts is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekends by appointment. For more information (478) 452-3950. Lake Sinclair Lake Sinclair, U.S. Highway 441 North, encompasses 15,300 acres for fishing, skiing and fishing tournaments, swimming, boating, camping and has several marinas for the convenience of visitors. Recently declared the “Cleanest Lake in the State,” Lake Sinclair boasts more than 500 miles of shoreline. Campgrounds, picnic areas and unsupervised beaches add to the enjoyment of Lake Sinclair.
Brown-Stetson-Sanford House 601 West Hancock St. (478) 453-1803. Open by appointment and on the Historic Trolley Tour. An architectural gem built by John Marlor in the “Milledgeville Federal” style with its characteristic columned double porch. It served the state capital as the Beecher-Brown Hotel and then the State’s Rights Hotel for the many visiting legislators who came to the area.
Lockerly Hall 1534 Irwinton Road, (478) 452-2112, www.lockerlyarboretum.org. Lockerly Hall, a Greek Revival home circa 1839, is the centerpiece of the Lockerly Arboretum, and presides over its surroundings with elegance and grace. The mansion is a significant example of the finest plantation architecture of the area as well as the entire cotton belt of the Old South. Lockerly Hall is open for tours on the Monday and Wednesday Trolley Tour through the Convention & Visitors Bureau. (478) 4524687 or (800) 653-1804.
Central State Hospital Museum The Central State Hospital Museum, located on Broad Street in an 1891 Victorian train depot, contains memorabilia that spans the history of CSH. From annual
Mary Vinson Memorial Library Baldwin County’s first public library was founded in 1923 and at one time occupied the building that now serves as the Milledgeville Visitors Center. In 1961, the
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library’s name was changed to the Mary Vinson Memorial Library in honor of Congressman Vinson’s late wife. The current 18,900-square-foot building on Jefferson Street was completed in 1986. Today, the Mary Vinson Memorial Library is home to an extensive genealogical and local history collection. Located at 151 South Jefferson St. www.twinlakeslibrarysystem.org
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PHOTOS BY SARAH BETH ARIEMMA & NATALIE DAVIS
Sightings
DEEP ROOTS FESTIVAL
Area band Free Lance Ruckus was among this year’s musical acts performing at the Deep Roots Festival. Thousands turned out for the annual Deep
Roots Music Festival, held the third Saturday in October. The day’s events included face painting, music, food and live entertainment.
Festival-goers also had the chance to check out some of the cars at the annual Old Capital Car Club car show, which always draws a crowd. 46 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
KROGER GRAND OPENING
PHOTOS BY JONATHAN JACKSON
Dignitaries, company officials and community leaders prepare to cut the ribbon as Kroger opens to the public. Among donations made to local schools as part of the grand opening, John Milledge Academy headmaster Mark Hopkins displays a check given to the school by the company.
Kroger community liaison Brian Gladin, Exchange Bank’s Terry Kennedy and Milledgeville Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce CEO April Bragg enjoy a Kroger VIP reception prior to the store's grand opening in October. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 • MS • 47
Sightings
CHAMBER REALITY CHECK
PHOTOS BY VAISHALI PATEL
Bobby Murphey Jr. goes over insurance specifics with a student during the Milledgeville Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce Reality Check held at John Milledge Academy. GMC Prep cadets get a bit of sticker shock during their Reality Check.
GMC Prep cadets learn the ins and outs of paying for auto insurance during Reality Check. A Reality Check volunteer assists cadets at GMC.
Amit Patel discusses finances and housing with some Baldwin High School juniors at Reality Check. 48 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
Dr. Nolan Stephens discusses the importance of having a strong educational foundation with a Baldwin High School junior during Reality Check. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 • MS • 49
Sightings
PHOTOS BY VAISHALI PATEL & SARAH BETH ARIEMMA
PRE-K WEEK
State Rep. Johnny Grant and Baldwin County Board of Education member Dr. Gloria Wicker take part in Georgia Pre-K Week activities at Early Learning Center.
Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal visits Early Learning Center to see firsthand the impact of the local ASPIRE program, a collaboration between the ELC and Communities in Schools of Milledgeville-Baldwin County. Georgia College volunteer Katie Ransom reads ‘Llama, Llama Red Pajama’ to students at the Early Learning Center during the local celebration of Read for the Record, a national initiative to promote literacy. 50 • MS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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