Chatham County - May 2017

May 2017

Mary Kay Ross MD and Functional Medicine A Health Plan That Works.

Savannah’s only medical practice dedicated solely to the practice of Functional/Integrative Medicine.

chatham county

scenes Take a look at a few more of the reasons we think Chatham County is a great place to live.

Band of Brothers

Local Bible study group strives to change men’s lives one soul at a time.

Turnbridge Plantation

Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr. continues the family tradition with the preservation of Turnbridge Plantation.

Possibilities Unlimited How one nonprofit organization helps its clients to achieve the unachievable by focusing on the ability, not the disability.

Healing Begins Here™

912.352.1234 • 3 JOHNSTON STREET, SUITE A • IPMSAVANNAH.COM

H o m e t o w n L i v i n g at i t s B e s t

Helping residents of Chatham, Effingham, Bulloch, Bryan & Liberty with their legal needs for over 30 years!

Southeast Georgia’s Only Level I Trauma Center

Galloway & Galloway, PC A T T O R N E Y S

A T

L A W

R. Brandon Galloway • Robert W. Galloway

Experience

Personal Injury • Family Law • Real Estate • Bankruptcy Criminal • Wills and Probate • Corporations and Contracts

Quality Care.

Inside this building, lives change every day. Last year alone, 3,501 people were rushed here with injuries so extreme, they required the region’s only Level 1 trauma center. Within these walls, surgeons, nurses, and emergency professionals provide lifesaving care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In fact, this facility’s trauma care was ranked among the Top 100 in the Nation for Patient Safety by CareChex®.* We hope you never need our trauma center. But if you do, we’re always here.

Experience Excellence. Memorial Health.

memorialhealth.com *

CareChex—an information service of Quantros, Inc.

5Star SSQ170302-Ad_7.5x10 3/23/17 3:09 PM Page 1

WHERE EVERY DAY IS AN ADVENTURE, AND

AGE IS JUST A NUMBER 1 Savannah Square Drive Savannah, GA 31406

912-927-7550

With no buy-in and thousands of reasons to move in, we’re proud to be Savannah’s home for exceptional senior living experiences.

• Large one- and two-bedroom cottages and apartments, with plenty of personalization options • Five Star Dining Experience, designed by a celebrity chef • Lifestyle360 activity program, offering new adventures daily • Five Star service, featuring gated access, concierge, and transportation

CALL TO JOIN US FOR AN ADVENTURE OR A TOUR. www.SavannahSquareRetirement.com

INDEPENDENT LIVING • PERSONAL CARE S K I L L E D N U R S I N G • R E H A B I L I TAT I O N ©2017 Five Star Senior Living

Pet Friendly

Hometown Living At Its Best

1

Dr. Vesa is honored to be an American citizen.

She is proud of her studies and accomplishments that have provided her the opportunity to make a difference in other people’s lives.

D

Dr. Vesa with the McCartney’s

Family, Faith & A Call To Help Others Dr. Telciane Vesa’s humble beginnings lead to a life of faith and service to others.

2

chatham county living

Dr. Telciane Vesa has been practicing medicine for almost 15 years. She received her medical degree in Brazil and has gone through an additional 6 years of training in the U.S. She is board certified in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Nutrition Support. She completed her Gastroenterology and Hepatology fellowship at Louisiana State University, and trained in Neurogastroenterology and Motility at the University of North Carolina. She is affiliated with Memorial University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and Candler Hospital.

Dr. Vesa was born in a small town surrounded by the Amazon forest in northern Brazil. She is thankful for the humble beginnings and influence of the American missionaries known to that region. She left her parent’s home at age 16 to live and study at a large city on Brazil’s coast.

She was accepted to a renowned medical school and completed her pre-clinical studies struggling with little access to books and other materials. In the late 1990s, she came across Dr. Donald and Monica McCartney, who were providing medical missionary work in her town. They saw her potential and provided the much needed books and supplies at a crucial time in her medical training.

“It was an OK, a confirmation from God that I was on the right track.” Later, they mediated a one-month rotation at the Medical College of Georgia. She is forever grateful for their continued loving support and inspiration for the last almost 20 years.

Dr. Vesa has been happily married for 10 years to Anthony Vesa, who works in Information Technology at Gulfstream.

They have two beautiful girls, Layla (3) and Anna Elise (18 months old), whom they enjoy spending time with by the pool, community park, or with family friends on their farm.

Dr. Vesa loves to dance and her husband, who did not know how to dance, secretly took Salsa lessons and surprised her by taking her dancing on her birthday. She and her husband love to travel; Tuscany, Italy is one of their favorite destinations. Her favorite sport is soccer and her favorite restaurant in Savannah is Elizabeth’s on 37th. One thing that you would never know about Dr. Vesa is that she loves to go shooting. She has taken self-defense with gun safety classes and takes pride in knowing that she can protect herself in a bad situation.

Dr. Vesa and her family have moved several times throughout the last 11 years for medical training and work. They lived in Mississippi, Louisiana and Missouri, but they chose Savannah as their home for the last two years. They intend to raise their girls and eventually retire in the low country.

Dr. Vesa is honored to be an American citizen. She is proud of her studies and accomplishments that have provided her the opportunity to make a difference in other people’s lives.

As a result, she is able to support her mother and her brother back home in Brazil. Her brother is currently following in her footsteps and is in his last year of medical school.

Dr. Vesa’s father passed from gastric cancer just a few weeks after her graduation from medical school. The diagnosis was supposedly missed in spite of three endoscopies. She did not want her patients to have to go through what she experienced.

She focuses her practice on quality care and preventative procedures, including colonoscopies. She feels very passionate about colon cancer screening.

There are three things Dr. Vesa cannot live without: her Christian faith, her family, and her career as a Gastroenterologist. She has learned that life presents many challenges, “You have to work through those challenges and never give up hope.” Her motto is to always be humble and give back to those who are less fortunate. She had the opportunity to participate in missionary work in Guatemala years ago, and wishes to periodically return to Guatemala and Brazil for that purpose. Until that becomes possible, she will continue to fulfill her mission locally providing care for patients here in Savannah.

Savannah Office: 1139 Lexington Ave. | Savannah, GA 31404 Okatie Office: 40 Okatie Center Blvd, South Suite 210 | Okatie, SC 29909 www.savannahgi.com | 912-303-4200

The Board-Certified Gastroenterologists of CDLH: George C. Aragon, MD; Steven Carpenter, MD; Charles W. Duckworth, MD; Mark E. Murphy, MD; Mark R. Nyce, MD; Edward Rydzak, MD; Telciane S. Vesa, MD; Ryan C. Wanamaker, MD

Chatham County living

20

contents 10

Sweet Dreams

Leopold’s Ice Cream celebrates 98 years with a big birthday bash.

20

Band of Brothers

Local Bible study group strives to change men’s lives one soul at a time.

32

The Gottlieb Brothers

After years away from the bakery business, the Gottlieb brothers took over Wood’s Kitchen and revived the family’s bakery heritage.

46

Turnbridge Plantation

Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr. continues the family tradition with the preservation of Turnbridge Plantation.

32 About the Cover Featured on the cover is a handsome little boy in a bow tie. He is just one of the many beautiul scenes found in Chatham County. The photo was taken by More Than Words Photograhy by Beanna Rendon.

10

60

Running to the Altar and Beyond

Chris and Melissa Ramsey’s love for running, and each other, is one of the reasons Fleet Feet in Savannah is an outstanding success.

4

chatham county living

46

72

Possibilities Unlimited

How one nonprofit organization helps its clients to achieve the unachievable by focusing on the ability, not the disability.

84

Historic Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery lies along the Wilmington River, a short distance from Savannah’s “historic district,” but no less historically significant.

164

98

Planting Seeds of Hope

How one financial advisement company helps its members make a difference in their community with shared generosity.

150

112

Making A Positive Difference

Dr. Karl Coxhead has worn many hats, but nothing fulfills him more than making a difference in his patients’ lives with his chiropractic work.

124

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

For nearly forty years, Cecil Abarr has been a quiet force of positivity and change in the Savannah area.

138

Mending Memories

How one Savannah college professor used her passion for vintage books to help others discover a special place from their past.

The Derby Girls

No longer considered “pro wrestling on wheels,” roller derby continues its quest to become legitimate.

164

Scenes of Chatham

Take a look at a few more of the reasons why we think Chatham County is a great place to live.

84

112

Announcing the Grand Opening of Coastal ENT Hearing Center!

322 Commercial Drive, Suite 2 Savannah, Georgia 31406

(912) 355-2335 | coastal-ent.com Dr. David Oliver | Dr. Jagadish Navare | Dr. Ian McLeod | Patricia Fall | Karla McKenzie 6

chatham county living

Dr. David Oliver

Dr. Jagadish Navare

Dr. Ian McLeod

Patricia Fall Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Karla McKenzie Audiologist

Our practice offers the following services for Pediatrics and Adults: OUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE INCLUDE: Sinus Infection and Nasal Allergies Snoring and Sleep Apnea Thyroid and Parathyroid Hearing and Balance, Ringing in the Ears Adult and Pediatric ENT Ear infections Salivary Gland Disorders Head and Neck Surgery

TREATMENTS: Balloon Sinuplasty Home Sleep Studies, Injection Snoreplasty, Tongue Ablation Reconstructive ENT Surgery Hearing Aids Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy Myringtomy and Tubes Sialendoscopy

Where are your hearing aids?

If you have hearing aids and they are NOT in your ears, please visit us at Coastal ENT Hearing Center.

SoundLens Invisible Hearing Aid by Starkey

• Special trade in discounts • Limited time only • Complimentary hearing aid check and cleaning • Complimentary hearing screening • SoundLens Invisible Hearing Aid Trial Hometown Living At Its Best

7

Chatham County

From the Publisher

living

P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications Jay and Patti Martin

C r eat i v e | D e s i g n Eric S. Love Stacey Nichols Ryan Sichelstiel Mandi Spivey Makayla Sweeney o f f i ce M a n age r Nikki Burkhalter

I

It’s again that time when I try and write something

profound that stirs your soul, make your heart beat faster, mull over the publisher’s letter, rub your chin thoughtfully, sit back in your chair and say “WOW!” However, my youngest daughter just had a baby girl

named Kinsley and I have reverted to single syllable baby talk that makes no sense to the baby or anyone listening. Rather than fill this page about how precious babies are and what a gift from God they are. I chose to not follow that well-worn path. I am not going to go on and on about her unbelievable beauty. Instead, we put a picture of her here – just to prove that I wouldn’t be lying if I had succumbed to

A s s i s ta n t M a n age r s June Dixon

Julie Braly P h otog r ap h e r s Casey Jones Dream Weaver Photos Jamie Weaver Jessica Stewart Julie Braly Kelly McDonald Photography More Than Words Photography by Beanna Rendon Rebecca Galloway Photography Ryan Lee Photography

C ov e r P h oto Handsome little boy in a bow tie, taken by More Than Words Photography by Beanna Rendon Sa l e s Scott Bergmann

Tiffanie Livingston Patti Martin

that pit of grandparent

Landon Spivey

pride.

Laurie Wilkes

Please thank our sponsors

on

page

176

the

great

for

articles in this issue.

Contributing Wri te r s D. Annette Sasser

David Pena Kelly McDonald Stephen Prudhomme

Each advertiser is a distribution point for free magazines as well. As always may God bless you abundantly!

Blessings,

Jay and Patti Martin Sales: (912) 654-3045 Email: jay@wyimpublications.com www.hometown-living.com 8

chatham county living

Chatham County Living Magazine© is published three times a year by With You in Mind Publications. www.hometown-living.com P.O. Box 55 • Glennville, GA 30427 (912) 654-3045

All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein.

Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

DREAM BIG. WE CAN HANDLE IT.

From buying a home to expanding your business to wealth management, United Community Bank provides the big bank resources and tools you need to realize your dreams. With our convenient coastal Georgia locations, experienced team of Savannah bankers and local decision making, we’re dedicated to giving you more than just big bank products.

To learn more, see us today or visit ucbi.com.

27 BULL STREET | 2225 EAST VICTORY DRIVE | 8201 WHITE BLUFF ROAD

@UnitedCommunityBankSavannahGA Member FDIC | © 2016 United Community Bank | NMLS#421841 | ucbi.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

9

Sweet Dreams 10

chatham county living

H

Happy Birthday to a true historic district Savannah landmark. This year Leopold’s Ice Cream turns the big 98, and to celebrate the town shuts down the whole block to party. Everyone is invited to join in on the day’s festivities that range from a hula hoop contest to Greek line dancing. The best part is, of course, the ice cream which is only 98 cents all day long.

Leopold’s Ice Cream was founded in 1919 by three brothers from Greece. They had learned the art of candy and dessert making from an uncle who had already settled in America. George, Peter, and Basil Leopold spent endless days perfecting the secret formulas and created what is now known as the famous Leopold’s Ice Cream. The brothers opened their ice cream parlor initially on the corner of Gwinnett and Habersham Streets in Savannah, where two street car lines intersected. Over the years, many riders would jump off and talk the driver into waiting

Leopold’s Ice Cream celebrates 98 years with a big birthday bash.

Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography Hometown Living At Its Best

11

It’s not uncommon to be waiting in line and overhear many guests still talking about the legendary soda fountain business. Banana splits, milkshakes and white sodas were served with a smile by the soda jerks that worked at Leopold’s.

as they ran in to get a frozen treat.

It’s not uncommon to be waiting in line and overhear many guests still talking about the legendary soda fountain business. Banana splits, milkshakes and white sodas were served with a smile by the soda jerks that worked at Leopold’s. The shop was always a popular destination after concerts, dances, and high school sporting events. Part of the almost century-long legacy includes famed lyrists Johnny Mercer. Mercer grew up a block away from the parlor and worked there as a boy. It’s even rumored that he wrote a song about Leopold’s world famous “tutti frutti” ice cream.

Stratton Leopold, Peter’s youngest son, learned the ice cream business as a child. Upon his father’s passing, he took over to carry on the family tradition. Stratton, also, made a name for himself in Hollywood. You can see the posters from his films hanging in the shop today. He is currently an active member of the Hollywood motion picture community serving as a producer on films such as Mission Impossible III and The General’s Daughter. In the summer of 2004 Stratton and his wife, Mary, opened Leopold’s in the new Broughton Street location where it remains today. When Stratton is not on location with his latest film project, he can be found behind the soda fountain scooping ice cream and washing dishes, just as he did when he was a boy.

The morning of the birthday celebration there was an amazing energy throughout the whole block. Employees were racing around cleaning, refilling ice cream, and preparing for the nearly 10,000 people that would come through the shop in one day. “This is our family,” shared 12

chatham county living

Mary Leopold referring to the army of soda jerks who surrounded her. “We care so much about their lives and education. It’s not just a job to them and they are not just an employee to us. Carrie, our marketing and everything person, has really helped us turn this party into an event.”

The love of their work family and ice cream was evident everywhere. An hour before opening, the line began to form around the block. As I wondered who would stand in line that long for ice cream, I realized quickly, it’s about the experience, tradition, and the ice cream.

A quick pre-opening meeting was held to give out all assignments for the day. Everyone was ready and excited to unlock those doors and let the party begin. “This is one of our favorite days all year long,” smiled Stratton as they opened up the front doors and Savannahians poured in. Young and old, the line moved quickly and a simple scoop was all that was needed to make thousands of happy people. “We hope that Leopold’s will continue to find its way into the hearts of future generations in Savannah and beyond,” Stratton and Mary said with pride.

“The line was out the door in 98-degree heat, but it moved quickly and was so worth the wait! They even had an employee serving cold water to the customers who were in the line waiting in the heat. Leopold’s Ice Cream lives up to the hype!” says Rhonda Blanchard, a forever customer.

“It’s the best Ice Cream on Earth! I imagine this is what heaven will be like! Don’t let the line scare you away, it’s well worth the wait even in the heat.” Vickie Flanagan said.

Eva Cowell says, “A must Savannah stop! And now they ship!!! Their ice cream is the stuff dreams are made of.”

This year Stratton and Mary decided to add to the day by setting up a special tent in the block called Blessings in a Back Pack. Employees accepted donations for school supplies, nonperishable food items, and gently worn uniforms. Anyone who brought a donation also received a BOGO coupon for a single scoop of ice cream. “It’s the least we could do for our community,” said Mary.

Hometown Living At Its Best

13

“A must Savannah stop! And now they ship!!! Their ice cream is the stuff dreams are made of.” { Eva Cowell }

The Savannah Children’s Choir kicked the party off followed

by The Ballet School, Abeni Cultural Arts Performing Dance studio, a classic car show, face painting, water games, bubbles, and a giant birthday cake.

14

chatham county living

Ice cream isn’t all Leopold’s has to brag about. These days Leopold’s offers delivery and catering, soups and sandwiches that are all made fresh in the store every day.

The Savannah Children’s Choir kicked the party off followed by The Ballet School, Abeni Cultural Arts Performing Dance studio, a classic car show, face painting, water games, bubbles, and a giant birthday cake. The entire day was filled with entertainment from beginning to end. Mary even got in on the action with the ballet school version of a traditional Greek dance.

Smiles and laughter and, of course, ice cream filled the block for hours. “We are humbled by the attendance every year as we celebrate such a milestone.” When Stratton was asked what their secret was for looking so good for 98 he answered with true charm, “it’s the ice cream.”

Ice cream isn’t all Leopold’s has to brag about. These days Leopold’s offers delivery and catering, soups and sandwiches that are all made fresh in the store every day. For almost a century, Leopold’s has been serving up something good to eat and they are showing no signs of slowing down. From the award-winning ice cream to the friendliest staff in town, Leopold’s has become a destination for many locals and vacationers. Out of hundreds of options, my daughter ordered up a simple strawberry scoop on a cone. “Perfection,” says the 8-year-old ice cream specialist.

So here’s to almost a century of history, fun, family and hard work! Happy Birthday Leopold’s, you look good for 98!  CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

15

Helping Patients Achieve Their

Dreams Dr. Meghan K. McGovern uses her expertise to help her patients achieve their aesthetic goals.

D

Dr. McGovern came to Savannah in 2002, after completing training in plastic surgery in Pennsylvania, and medical school in Virginia. She is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Her practice is devoted to a wide range of individualized solutions to patients ranging from new mothers needing breast enhancement or an abdominal nip to high-power executives looking to erase years of worry from their brows.

It’s the type of work Dr. McGovern has wanted to do for as long as she can remember. “When I was about 2½, I split my chin and had to go to the emergency room for stitches,” she recalls. “I thought it was amazing that you could put someone back together after they were injured.”

16

chatham county living

Today, McGovern works with patients who come to her from across the city and as far as Texas to achieve their myriad aesthetic goals. The most common procedure in Savannah? Noninvasive facial rejuvenation techniques, she says, including Botox, permanent and temporary fillers.

She serves patients in Savannah and Statesboro as well as surrounding areas.

“I enjoy these procedures immensely,” Dr. McGovern says. “Not only do my patients receive near–instant, long-lasting and impressive changes – I never get tired of hearing them gush about all the compliments they’re getting and how happy they are – but I also enjoy the long– term relationships that are formed as we work together to maintain a lasting look.”

Making patients “look like they feel”

Helping you.....

Achieve Your Dreams It’s not only the motto of Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery, it describes the professional approach of partner Dr. Meghan K. McGovern to her medical practice and to each individual patient.

“Women come to me because they want to look like younger, more refreshed versions of themselves,” Dr. McGovern says. “They don’t want to look inflated or unnatural, with a face that’s been over-plumped or pulled too tightly.” It’s this signature aesthetic approach that’s made Dr. McGovern the go-to woman plastic surgeon among Savannah’s and Statesboro’s most discerning, successful set.

Meghan McGovern, MD, FACS

900 Mohawk Street Suite A Savannah, GA 31419 | (912) 920-2090 1209 Merchant Way #301, Statesboro, GA 30458 | (912) 681-7793

18

chatham county living

THANK YOU FOR BEING THE REASON WE ARE CELEBRATING

114 BARNARD ST | SAVANNAH, GA 31401 | (912) 232-7899 RESERVATIONS CAN BE MADE AT ALLIGATORSOUL.COM

15

years

20

Chatham county Living

They come from all over, with some as far away as Pembroke, Springfield and even Augusta. Men from all walks of life and all societal backgrounds file into the First Baptist Church in Garden City every Friday morning at 6:30 a.m. The smiles seem to be contagious, and everyone greets each other warmly. Singer-songwriter Tim Malchak provides the tuneful Christian music before the start of each meeting, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of what’s about to take place. At the various tables there’s a healthy mix of businessmen, longshoremen, forklift operators, politicians, preachers, judges, and even the occasional congressman and former television anchor, all gathering together to share breakfast, fellowship, and something a bit more intrinsic, a bit more intangible. They are called the Band of Brothers, a weekly Bible study group whose mission is pretty straight forward, according to its founder Richard Barrow. “Everyone who comes feels the impact of the

Although there’s no denomination with us, we have a pretty simple motive behind what we do; we try to get Christian men closer to God and non-Christians to become Christians.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

21

Band of Brothers. Although there’s no denomination with us, we have a pretty simple motive behind what we do; we try to get Christian men closer to God and non-Christians to become Christians.”

Barrow says this “band” of men came from humble, albeit well-intentioned, beginnings. “The group initially started in my office at Coastal Logistics eleven years ago as an accountability group for a friend of mine. He had just become a Christian, and we were trying to surround him with guys that could help him when he would eventually struggle. I used to drink and run the streets with him, so I knew he’d need some support.” At that time there were Currently the group of more than 200 men now meets at 6:30 every Friday morning at the First Baptist Church as well as every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at the Salvation Army.

Member Doug Weathers says that the popularity of the group necessitated its current location.

22

Chatham county Living

Evidence of the organization's positive impact on the local community reverberates throughout the meetings and beyond. Several members recounted how their first visit to the Band of Brothers was a life-changing experience, thus always making concerted efforts to welcome any new attendee who feels a need to strengthen his relationship with God and fellow man. “It's always a diverse group, but we all strongly believe this is a movement of God bringing these men together who would not ordinarily worship in the same church together on Sundays,” says Pastor Grant. “On Friday when you look across the room and see the different types of men together along with the weekly newcomers, we know that we're doing the work of the Lord.”

only six attendees, but eventually the core members just kept inviting friends to join, with newcomers rarely coming for just one meeting. It soon became a Bible study group that quickly outgrew Barrow’s office, so they eventually moved to several conference rooms before having to meet at the Masonic Lodge in Garden City to accommodate the increasing number of devoted attendees. Currently the group of more than 200 men now meets at 6:30 every Friday morning at the First Baptist Church as well as every second and

fourth Tuesday of the month at the Salvation Army.

Member Doug Weathers says that the popularity of the group necessitated its current location. “We needed larger facilities due to our growth since we’ve outgrown all our other meeting places. In fact, as part of helping some men in their residence program at the Salvation Army, the organization has incorporated the group’s meetings (at that location) into their curriculum, so now we even have more members.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

23

Each Friday after enjoying a delicious, hot breakfast prepared by volunteers in the wee hours of the morning, the members enjoy fellowship and share whatever happens to be the topic at hand. Whether the meeting centers around curbing alcohol abuse, staying faithful to one’s wife, improving race relations, improving ethics in the business world or devoting more quality time to one’s family, the discourse still centers around man as the central societal leader and head of his family, roles that are not to be taken lightly.

The unifying theme to these meetings is God’s holy word, often broken down to have more applicable and understandable relevance in the day-to-day lives of the attendees. “We use the readings to help each man become more of what he should be before his 24

Chatham county Living

God, his family as well as the community as a whole,” says Weathers. The meetings always conclude at 7:30 in order to allow the working men can get to their jobs on time, but one can’t help but be struck by the camaraderie and sense of kinship developed in the span of just one hour. “Being a Christian is all about being accountable to God, but if you have friends out here to help, then it makes it easier. Surrounding yourself with men who walk the same path is the key to our success,” says Barrow.

One of the men who definitely “walks the same path” is Kenny Grant, who’s been leading the group after attending his first meeting about seven years ago.

The former Marine drill sergeant-turned pastor feels a special kinship with the group. In 1979 while stationed

Each Friday after enjoying a delicious, hot breakfast prepared by volunteers in the wee hours of the morning, the members enjoy fellowship and share whatever happens to be the topic at hand.

The unifying theme to these meetings is God’s holy word, often broken down to have more applicable and understandable relevance in the dayto-day lives of the attendees.

at Paris Island, the young Marine decided to dedicate his life to Christ, and now as part of his evangelistic ministries, the Calvary Baptist Temple pastor feels a need to touch the lives of Christian men in particular.

“I was very impressed with the (Band of Brothers) from the very beginning, their commitment and focus.

As I see it, the role of the group is still a mutual

accountability and support system for men because as it says in Proverbs, as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another,” says Grant, whose experiences in the military help to form a bond with the men. “He really communicates well with the guys. He’s in his element with a bunch of us knuckleheads,” Barrow says with a laugh. “As Christians, when we know Hometown Living At Its Best

25

someone needs help, we just ‘man up’ and help him.

That’s the long and short of it.” Interestingly enough, it was a member of the Band of Brothers who “manned up” by helping Grant achieve his pastorship. “We have a judge who attends our meetings, and after getting to know Kenny, he recommended him to Calvary as interim pastor when their pastor had left,” recalls Barrow. “They loved him so much that they asked him to stay on full-time.” Now the charismatic and engaging pastor takes time every Friday to lead the Band of Brothers in the study of the Bible, in addition to his duties at Calvary, but he wouldn’t want it any other way. “Men are men, no matter where you come from or how much money you make. We have the same challenges, fears, desires and failings. Whatever we talk about in our meetings, the focus is how we can become better men as mantles of leadership in the home and society. I’m glad to be part of that process,” Grant proudly states.

Later this year, the group plans to sponsor a conference entitled S.T.A.N.D.(Students Taking a New Direction), aimed at delivering a much-needed message to high school and college aged young men and women. “Our target audience is 16-20 year-olds,

26

Chatham county Living

but really anyone can come. We know that they’ll be challenged when they go off to college and other liberal settings that challenge the belief in God,” Barrow claims. The group plans to have an apologetic speaker who specializes in presenting historical, reasoned, and evidential bases for Christianity, defending it against all objections. The conference will take place at the civic center on September 23.

Evidence of the organization’s positive impact on the local community reverberates throughout the meetings and beyond. Several members recounted how their first visit to the Band of Brothers was a lifechanging experience, thus always making concerted efforts to welcome any new attendee who feels a need to strengthen his relationship with God and fellow man. “It’s always a diverse group, but we all strongly believe this is a movement of God bringing these men together who would not ordinarily worship in the same church together on Sundays,” says Pastor Grant. “On Friday when you look across the room and see the different types of men together along with the weekly newcomers, we know that we’re doing the work of the Lord.”  CCL

Live Oak Park 316 Stephenson Avenue Savannah, GA 31405 912.355.7790 800.851.8491 •

Lakeside 309 Pete Phillips Drive Vidalia, GA 30474 912.538.0724 •

Godley Station 145 Traders Way, Suite B Pooler, GA 31322

Dale A. Miles, DMD Rebecca M. Aspinwall, DMD Derek V. Miles, DMD

912.998.0020

“Specializing in root canal therapy since 1986” Hometown Living At Its Best

27

28

chatham county living

Counter Fitters, LLC has proudly served the countertop needs of Savannah, Hilton Head and surrounding areas for over 23 years.

1026 Lynes Avenue • Savannah, Georgia 31415 912.231.0103 • fax: 912.201.9722 • sales@CounterFittersSav.com Hometown Living At Its Best

29

her

new lease

on life Nephrology and Hypertension helped Karen Bartlett stay healthy enough to enjoy her great passions in life.

K “I am very pleased with the treatment I receive and would absolutely refer anyone to this practice.” - Karen Bartlett

30

chatham county living

Karen Bartlett has been a patient at Nephrology & Hypertension Medical Associates for 20+ years. She found out, through lab work, that she had a kidney issue and was referred to Dana Kumjian, M.D. for treatment. She says, “Dr. Kumjian kept me off of dialysis and from having a kidney transplant for 20 years using his medical expertise.” In 2014, Karen was faced with the fact that her kidney function was declining to the point where she needed to consider dialysis. She was referred to a dialysis education class so that she had the information she needed to make a decision that suited her. During her next follow up visit to the office, it was determined that her kidney function had dropped to 19% and she was referred for evaluation for a kidney transplant. She received her kidney transplant at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida in December, 2014. After 3 months, she suffered an early rejection. She continued to see Dr. Kumjian for close follow-up care

until September 10, 2015, when Karen returned to Mayo for a second kidney transplant, which has been successful.

Karen commends the doctors and staff at Nephrology & Hypertension Medical Associates. In Karen’s words, “Dr. Kumjian is very thorough. He never rushes and always takes time to answer any questions and also makes his explanations easy to understand. Because of his exemplary care, I am able to lead a normal life today. The office staff is also phenomenal; they greet me by name, which is unheard of. As a patient, my kidney is well managed and they watch me like a hawk. If I ever have any problems, all I have to do is pick up the phone and call. I cannot say enough about the entire staff. Everyone is accommodating and it’s obvious they truly care about their patients. I will continue to go to Mayo once a year for the rest of my life but I am basically under Dr. Kumjian’s care. I am very pleased with the treatment I receive and would absolutely refer anyone to this practice.”

Nephrology and Hypertension is very pleased to welcome William Gabbard M.D. to their team. He brings his experience from Ochsner Clinic Foundation and the University of Tennessee. He joins Dana Kumjian M.D., Rebecca Sentman M.D., Erik Bernstein M.D, James Bazemore M.D., and Jessica Coleman M.D. NHMA takes immense pride in the capacity to provide the highest level of care for their patients.

“If I ever have any problems, all I have to do is pick up the phone and call. I cannot say enough about the entire staff. Everyone is accommodating and it’s obvious they truly care about their patients.” - Karen Bartlett

THE DOCTORS Jessica Coleman MD, James Bazemore MD, Dana Kumjian MD, Erik Bernstein MD, William Gabbard MD, Rebecca Sentman MD

1115 Lexington Ave, Savannah, GA 31404 | Phone: (912) 354-4813 | www.thekidneydocs.com Hometown Living At Its Best

31

Gottlieb The

Brothers

32

Chatham county living

Story By D. Annette Sasser Photos by Ryan Lee Photography and provided by The Gottlieb Brothers

I

After years away from the bakery business, the Gottlieb brothers took over Wood’s Kitchen and revived the family’s bakery heritage.

In the late 1870’s the name “Gottlieb” had become a household word in and around the Savannah area. After migrating to America from Russia with his family, Isadore Gottlieb, the great-great-grandfather of local chefs, Michael and Laurence Gottlieb, began selling baked goods in the streets, delivering his products by foot, and later by horse and buggy.

In 1884 he opened a bakery that remained an icon in the city of Savannah until 1994.

“When our dad retired in 1994 he asked if we wanted to take over the bakery,” said Michael Gottlieb. “But at that time it had become hard to compete with grocery and

chain store bakeries. It seemed that people had become more concerned with convenience than freshness and quality. One stop shopping, where you could buy everything you needed in one place, had become very popular.”

“And we were young then,” said Laurence Gottlieb. “I was in college and Michael was still in high school. Although we loved the bakery, the timing just wasn’t right.”

Laurence and Michael, as well as their brother, Richard, grew up in the Gottlieb family bakery. All three brothers later became involved in the restaurant business. But it was Laurence and Michael who continued to pursue Hometown Living At Its Best

33

a family tradition The brothers continued to carry on the family trade for many years, which included the establishment of the award winning Gottlieb’s Restaurant & Dessert Bar in downtown Savannah. (The restaurant closed in 2006).

the family’s culinary heritage.

Michael was a high school senior when he learned about a special program at Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island that would allow him to combine his senior year of high school and freshman year of college. “You had to meet a certain criteria in order to take advantage of that program,” said Michael. “I met the criteria and went from being an average-grade student to making straight A’s. I believe it was because I was challenged at Johnson and Wales to study education without extra curricular activities. That worked for me. I was even able to finish college a year early.

It was a great decision.”

During Michael’s senior year of high school, “I was preparing to enter my

34

Chatham county living

junior year at the University of Georgia,” said Laurence. “I decided to transfer to Johnson and Wales to be with him.”

With a degree in Culinary Arts, and a rich culinary heritage, the brothers had both talent and knowledge. They both went to work at the “Gatehouse”, a fine dining restaurant in Providence. Laurence went on to become Executive Sous Chef at the world-renowned Inn at Little Washington in Virginia. Michael advanced to the Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, Maryland, and later joined Laurence in Little Washington where the brothers would work together for the next four years.

The brothers continued to carry on the family trade for many years, which included the establishment of the award winning Gottlieb’s Restaurant & Dessert Bar in downtown Savannah. (The restaurant closed in 2006).

In 2012, their father, who was known

around Savannah as Isser “Sweet Roll” Gottlieb, passed away. That same year, “A friend told me about this really good bakery in Dallas and suggested that I check it out,” said Laurence. “When I walked through the door of the bakery, the smell of bread and pastries baking triggered something in my head. I love the smell of sugar and cinnamon. It was a motivating factor in my decision to focus on baking. To me, baking is a trade of love.”

In 2014, “We were on our way home to Savannah from Dallas when I received a call from a gentleman asking me to check out Wood’s Kitchen, a barbecue restaurant in Bloomingdale that had recently closed,” said Michael. The brothers decided to investigate.

The place was located next to Randy Wood Guitars and Wood’s Theater.

“It seemed to be a win-win opportunity,” said Laurence. “It would put us back into business together, which we love, and it would

Hometown Living At Its Best

35

36

Chatham county living

mixing the sweet with the savory The brothers felt they could make the barbecue restaurant a success and also provide the same cookies and pastries that had made the Gottlieb name famous.

also give me an opportunity to continue baking.”

Michael, who plays the guitar, and his brother, Laurence, both loved music, which made the location, next to a music store and a theater where various groups perform frequently, an added plus. The brothers felt they could make the barbecue restaurant a success and also provide the same cookies and pastries that had made the Gottlieb name famous.

“We weren’t looking for a restaurant, it just seemed to fall into our laps,” said Michael. “I lean toward the savory side of things and Laurence loves to bake. We felt that it was right for us.”

The Gottlieb brothers opened Wood’s Kitchen on October 6, 2015. “In the beginning it was a little tough because customers had become weary of driving to the restaurant only to find a ‘closed’ sign on the door,” said Michael. “The previous manager would open and close the restaurant at will. It took six months for people to understand that we had a set time schedule to open and close.”

Despite their busy schedules, Michael and Laurence also enjoy participating in community activities. In 2016, Michael and Laurence, along with three other chefs, took part in the first Q-Masters, Chefs + Vets festival event, which was organized by Savannah’s Food & Wine Festival.

“It was a special event honoring Vets on Veteran’s Day,” said Laurence.

Hometown Living At Its Best

37

all natural ingredients

Laurence does all his baking at Wood’s Kitchen, but the organic, all natural, zero preservative Gottlieb bakery products are delivered and shipped all over the United States and as far away as New York and California.

“It was presented by Big Green Egg, Service Brewing, and the Local Palate Magazine,” said Michael. “We were up before daybreak preparing barbecue and baking for three to four hundred people. The event helped raise money to build tiny homes for veterans, which has become a popular way to help veterans across the county.”

Laurence does all his baking at Wood’s Kitchen, but the organic, all natural, zero preservative Gottlieb bakery products are delivered and shipped all over the United States and as far away as New York and California. Plans are also underway to reopen a downtown bakery in the near future. “But we are looking for the right place, and waiting for the right time,” said Laurence.

With specialized training and the recognizable Gottlieb heritage, Michael and Laurence Gottlieb live up to their declaration, “the best local bounty for a Chef driven

38

Chatham county living

Barbecue Restaurant, Inspired Gullah and Cajun/ Creole plates plus good barbecue that make music in your mouth, and breads, pastries, and desserts, baked fresh daily, to accompany the savory side of life, all intertwined to the bluegrass-enriched property surrounding the restaurant.”

The brothers continually hear stories of the “good old days”. “People tell us constantly how they would leave church on Sunday and drop by the Gottlieb bakery for a cookie or pastry before going home,” said Laurence.

“Our older customers remember those days,” said Michael. “Our goal and mission is to see that this present day generation and future ones, experience and form the same kind of bond with the Gottlieb name.” After “experiencing” the delicious barbecue, and mouth-watering bakery products served at Wood’s Kitchen for myself, I am certain that Savannah will remember the Gottlieb name for many generations to come.

Woods Kitchen is located at 1304 US-80, Bloomingdale, GA 31302; Hours are Wednesday – Saturday 10:45am – 7:00pm. CCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

39

W

e are lawyers you can trust at your most difficult moments. Whether you have been seriously injured in a car or truck accident, or you have recently been charged with a DUI, or you hope to gain custody of your children, or you need advice about a business contract, our team of lawyers and professionals has the experience and patience to pursue the result you seek. No one ever wants to be in a situation that requires a lawyer’s assistance, and we know that this may be the first time you have ever had to work with an attorney. It is our hope you will see us as a legal team that you and your family can trust now and in the future.

OUR MISSION

We seek to provide quality legal service to clients with competency, integrity, zealous representation, within the bounds of law and responsiveness to our clients’ needs.

PRACTICE AREAS

Our firm practices law in a variety of areas, including: · Personal Injury · Business Litigation · Counter Dispute · Wills and Probate · DUI

· Producers Liability · Domestic Relations · Criminal Law · Fraud

Duffy & Feemster, LLC is located at 236 East Oglethorpe Avenue and is part of what is known as “Marshall Row.” This row of townhouses was developed in the 1850s

by Mary Marshall, a female architect who also built the Marshall House Hotel and whose portrait hangs in the Marshall House. Legend has it that in the 1960s the entire row of four townhouses was owned by a brick broker who was going to demolish the buildings for their Savannah Grey brick. Robert Duffy and others were able to raise the money to buy the dilapidated townhouses from the brick broker and renovate them. The one at 236 was turned into Robert Duffy’s law office in the mid 1960s and has been the home of Duffy & Feemster, LLC since 1982.

EST. 1951

DUFFY & FEEMSTER, LLC (912) 236-6311

Duffy & Feemster, LLC has been taking care of Savannah and Coastal Empire area residents and businesses, providing them with professional legal representation since 1951.

236 East Oglethorpe Avenue | Savannah, GA

www.duffyfeemster.com Call today to schedule a consultation.

AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS | RETIREMENT 42

chatham county living

Protecting Your Future.

Many times, our favorite memories come from life-changing experiences like buying a home, getting married, expanding your family or changing careers. And like you, I’m making memories of my own. I know how easy it is to get wrapped up in the moment, and not give your insurance and financial priorities the attention they deserve.

But that’s why I’m here. I’ll provide you with step-by-step guidance on your goals to help you protect your future and the memories that come with it.

Prioritize Your Peace Of Mind From insurance to retirement planning, I’ll help you bring it all together. Give me a call today to make sure you’re on track to a stronger financial future, or complete the “Contact Me” form on my website at:

www.countryfinancial.com/gregg.miller

Gregg M. Miller, LUTCF Freddie Miller Insurance Agency

2019 Linnhurst Drive • Savannah, GA 31414 912.355.5454 • Cell: 912.429.8088 • Fax: 912.355.3005

Protecting Monday - Friday: your future.

8:30 times, AM - our 5:00PM Many favorite memories come Evening & Weekend from life-changing experiences like buying Available aAppointments home, getting married, expanding your family or changing careers. And like you, I’m making memories of Auto,own.

Home, andICommercial

by COUNTRY Company ,up COUNTRY Casualy Insurance my know policies howissued easy it is toMutual getInsurance wrapped in the moment, Company , or COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company . Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company . Fixed Annuities issued

by COUNTRYthe Investors Life and notandgive your insurance and financial priorities attention Assurance Company . Issuing companies located in Bloomington, IL. they deserve. ©

©

©

©

©

©

Hometown Living At Its Best

43

But that’s why I’m here. I’ll provide you with step-by-step guidance on your goals to help you protectyour future - and the memories

Planters INN

ON REYNOLDS SQUARE

44

chatham county living

L

ocated in the heart of the historic district, the Planters Inn on Reynolds Square is truly a landmark of distinction in Savannah.

29 ABERCORN STREET | SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 31401 | 800-554-1187

Hometown Living At Its Best

45

TURNBRIDGE

Plantation Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr. continues the family tradition with the preservation of Turnbridge Plantation.

46

Chatham county living

D

By D. Annette Sasser Photos by Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr. and Ryan Lee Photography

Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr., Savannah ophthalmologist and present owner of Turnbridge Plantation, pointed into the algae green water where two beady eyes stared at us cautiously.

“That one’s only about five or six feet.”

Although Dr. Schulze assured me we were perfectly safe, I wondered who was more nervous, me, or the alligator that suddenly flapped its tail and with a swift splash disappeared from sight.

We were walking a trail on the 400-acre Turnbridge Plantation, which is located about eight miles from Savannah in Hardeeville, South Carolina. It was an unusually warm, balmy day for late February. My husband, John, had accompanied me on the interview.

I became a patient of Dr. Schulze in 2016. He had been highly recommended as a skilled, personable physician. I soon understood why.

At each visit I became more intrigued with the framed newspaper articles on the walls of his office. His maternal great-grandfather was a

Hometown Living At Its Best

47

“We weren’t completely satisfied with the name, I saw on a map that there was a Turnbridge Landing on the Wright River, as well as Turnbridge Landing Road, so I suggested we just call it Turnbridge. I was thirteen at the time.” {Dr. Richard Schulze}

country doctor in the late 19th century, and his maternal grandfather was an eye, ear, nose, and throat specialist. His father, an ophthalmologist as well, retired six years ago. My interest was especially piqued with the story of Turnbridge Plantation and the resurrection of Carolina Gold.

“As a kid I admired my father,” said Dr. Schulze. “He was the happiest person I knew. I had considered becoming an English professor, but I liked working with my hands, and my father was a great influence on me. So I came back to Savannah after medical school to work with him. My dad was also a successful farmer and physician. I am told that the last crop of Carolina Gold rice was harvested in 1927. My father resurrected it around 1984.”

When his father bought the plantation in 1975 it was called Wantoot, which is an old Native American name. “We weren’t completely satisfied with the name,” said Dr. Schulze. “I saw on a map that there was a Turnbridge Landing on the Wright River, as well as Turnbridge Landing Road, so I suggested we just call it Turnbridge. I was thirteen at the time.”

The elder Dr. Schulze was also an avid water fowler – duck hunter. His original intent was to use Turnbridge to hunt ducks. “But when several of his older patients, who had grown up on these plantations and worked the land, began telling him about its history, my dad, a story-teller himself, became intrigued with stories of a longgrain rice called ‘Carolina Gold’, which would supposedly attract ducks.”

Dr. Schulze explained that Carolina Gold was so named because of its golden stalks. It originated from Africa and Indonesia and was considered the grandfather of long-grain rice in the Americas. It was grown in Carolina and in some coastal areas in Georgia. By 1685, it was a commercial staple grain, and the basis of the colonial economy of Carolina, especially for Charleston.

“When my dad found that there was some Carolina Gold in a seed bank at the United States Department of Agriculture in Beaumont, Texas, he persuaded scientists there to propagate some 48

Chatham county living

seed,” said Dr. Schulze. “And in 1985 he was given a 14-pound bag of Carolina Gold Rice.”

Dr. Schulze was in graduate school when his Dad hand planted his first rice crop on Turnbridge Plantation. He cleared out a one-acre field that had originally been an old catfish pond. “It was great for growing rice,” said Dr. Schulze. “Because the water supports the stem. Carolina Gold is fairly tall rice, and has a tendency to get knocked over in an early stage of growth if it’s unsupported.” Fourteen pounds didn’t go very far, but he was able to harvest about sixty pounds, enough for seed for the next season.

Every year, his dad would multiply his yield. By 1987, he had enough seed saved to plant a large field. “Historically, most of the rice fields were flooded through tie gates,” said Dr. Schulze.

“We’re blessed today to have large tides in the low country. We are also fortunate that at Turnbridge the ground is firm enough to support heavy machinery.”

Dr. Schulze worked the rice fields at Turnbridge Plantation a couple of summers during his teen years. “It is brutal hard work and gave me an appreciation for the amount of labor that would Hometown Living At Its Best

49

have gone into making these fields productive historically,” said Dr. Schulze.

Today the rice is grown by Glenn Roberts, founder of Anson Mills, a company based out of Columbia, South Carolina. “Our association with Glenn is probably the best thing that’s happened to Turnbridge over the years,” said Dr. Schulze. “Since my dad retired from the practice, I don’t have time for the day-to-day management anymore. It’s not actually a moneymaker, but we keep the fields worked and maintained for two specific reasons: If you do nothing with the fields, they will turn into a jungle and in five years be gone. And there is a remarkable amount of history associated with all of this that I’d like to preserve.”

The trail brought us to a rookery, which, Dr. Shulze explained becomes a hive of activity in the summer. “One of the interesting things about this place is that we have fresh water habitat, brackish water habitat, and the ocean is five miles away with salt water marsh.

There’s fresh water marsh a little further down. With the piney woods, planted fields, and grain, and seeds for birds, there’s this confluence of habitat that comes together at one spot. We have just about every bird here that’s on the Eastern Seaboard.”

At “Alligator Highway”, a place where

50

Chatham county living

reptiles cross on the trail, I discovered that my ophthalmologist was not only a nature lover, bird watcher, and producer of historic Carolina Gold Rice, but possibly an alligator expert as well. “I was fascinated with alligators as a child,” said Dr. Schulze. “I was sixteen when I decided to try to catch one. I used a fishing rod and hooked a baby three-foot alligator that was in one of our little ponds. When I reeled him in, I realized that I hadn’t thought things through. I didn’t know how to get the hook out of its mouth without getting bitten. I had this little alligator with pretty powerful jaws thrashing around. While I was trying to figure out what to do, he just kind of shook the hook out of his mouth like a fish.”

“I decided I needed to come up with a better way, so I devised a noose. One season my friend and I spotted a four-foot alligator in one of the little rice ponds. It had about a foot of water. We waded in and

In 1685, a distressed merchant ship paid for repairs in Charleston with a small quantity of rice seed from Madagascar. The results – Carolina Gold, a staple that helped sustain a colony. Today Dr. Schulze helps keep history alive on Turnbridge Rice Plantation by supplying the historic rice to restaurants and online customers.

Hometown Living At Its Best

51

“One of the interesting things about this place is that we have fresh water habitat, brackish water habitat, and the ocean is five miles away with salt water marsh. There’s fresh water marsh a little further down. With the piney woods, planted fields, and grain, and seeds for birds, there’s this confluence of habitat that comes together at one spot.

We have just about every bird here that’s on the Eastern Seaboard.” {Dr. Richard Schulze}

52

Chatham county living

were able to snare him with the noose. We took him to my house and put him in the bathtub. It was before the time of cell phone cameras, so I called my mom and asked her to bring over a camera. She was none too pleased to find an alligator in the bathtub, but I still have the picture and it makes a great story.”

“How did you get him out of the tub?” I asked.

“With difficulty,” he laughed. “Be assured, we released him and his adventure with us was over. I’m sure he’s swimming around here somewhere wondering what happened to him in his youth.”

Several years later, while Dr. Schulze was working on a sea turtle project on Wassau Island, he had what he deemed his final personal experience with catching alligators. “We were trawling the beach at night looking for sea turtles,” said Dr. Schulze. “Occasionally we’d see alligators go out to the surf to feed. Jim Tamarac, a biologist at the Atlanta Zoo, was also there doing an alligator project. One night I was with my good friend, Guerry Beam, when we spotted an alligator.

Their eye’s glow red at night. It’s really kind of spooky.

Gary had previously worked with Jim, and asked me to hold the light while he sneaked around and caught the alligator. When he caught it, he asked me if I would sit on it while he ran back for Jim. It was 2:00 in the morning and there I was sitting all alone on a seven and a half foot alligator. It took them about a half an hour to get back. It was really interesting. The alligator just patiently laid there until Ken got there and tagged her.”

In 1685, a distressed merchant ship paid for repairs in Charleston with a small quantity of rice seed from Madagascar. The results – Carolina Gold, a staple that helped sustain a colony. Today Dr. Schulze helps keep history alive on Turnbridge Rice Plantation by supplying the historic rice to restaurants and online customers.

For further information: Foundation website: carolinaricefoundation.org “Carolina Gold Rice” a book written by Dr. Richard Schulze, Sr. can be purchased at Amazon.  CCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

53

54

chatham county living

Tuesday - Friday 8:00AM - 6:00PM | Saturday 9:00AM - 5:00PM | Closed Sunday & Monday

savannahrumrunnersbakery.com 324 West Bolton Street, Savannah, GA 31401 | 912 - 355 - 4177

2 n

34 56

Chathamcounty Countyliving Living chatham

Located in Vidalia, GA, Home of the Sweet Vidalia Onions, Hawk’s Point draws golfers from many areas to face the challenges of this 18 hole semi-private course. We welcome golfers from abroad to come enjoy our great course, excellent facilities and professional courteous hospitality. We are certain our course and its many challenges will not disappoint you.

912.537.9256

1801 Loop Rd Vidalia, GA 30474

h aw k sp oin tg ol f c l u b . com

Hometown Living At Its Best 35 Hometown Living At Its Best 57

Savannah, GA’s Favorite Local Jewelry Store

Harkleroad Diamonds & Fine Jewelry offers our customers a variety of services including jewelry repair and jewelry appraisal services.

We work hard to provide you with a large selection of diamonds, mountings and fashion jewelry to choose from with a well trained staff eager to assist you.

With certified gemologists on staff, we’re qualified to repair and appraise a wide variety of different jewelry. Stop in today!

7300 Abercorn Street | Savannah, GA 31406 | 912 354 3671

A history of trust.

Marion Leith REALTOR Associate Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI 912441.3993

Karen Thomas

Jane Beare

REALTOR ABR, CMRS, GRI 912.856.6550

REALTOR Associate Broker ABR, CMRS, GRI, Previews International Certified 912.507.5797

Sarah L McCoy REALTOR 912.665.8152

912.352.1222 | 6349 Abercorn St. Savannah | www.coldwellbankerplatinum.com

60

chatham county living

Story By Stephen Prudhomme | Photos by Rebecca Galloway Photography

Running

TO THE

Altar

AND BEYOND

W

Chris and Melissa Ramsey’s love for running, and each other, is one of the reasons Fleet Feet in Savannah is an outstanding success.

Whether it’s at their place of work, Fleet Feet Savannah, training or competing in races, Chris and Melissa Ramsey and running are metaphorically married to one another. They also share a lifetime penchant for running and an active lifestyle.

There’s one more thing they share as well - a literal marriage.

The Ramseys have been husband and wife for three years. Chris, 36, is the general manager at Fleet Feet, while Melissa, 34, is a manager and does marketing for the store.

Staying in step with one another ends, ironically enough, with their running.

A native of Lima, Ohio, Chris was a bundle of energy. “I was always impatient,” he says. “I always wanted to get from point A to point B as fast as possible. If my mom left a bag in the car, she would send me to get it because she knew I would do it in the fastest time.”

Armed with energy and running talent, Chris moved on from

Hometown Living At Its Best

61

Letsinger credits the Ramseys, along with the rest of the Fleet Feet staff, with keeping the sense of the running community alive and well.

retrieving bags to track and soccer. In high school, he ran a 4:34 mile. By 2009, having continued to run during his college years and competing in races, Chris ran his first marathon, in Miami, and finished at 2:53:40. Moving to Savannah, he ran track at Armstrong State University.

Melissa also was an active youngster. She played soccer, basketball, and softball and competed in track while attending high school in Macon.

Initially, running was required for basketball. Over time, however, she developed a love for it. “I just enjoyed it,” she says.

Melissa attended Auburn and took a jogging class. “That was very interesting,” she says. “For the final, I had to run two miles in under a certain time.”

Melissa moved to Savannah in 2005 and did her

62

chatham county living

first marathon two years later in Nashville. She started at Fleet Feet in 2010. Chris came to the store the following year.

Melissa was a manager when Chris started working at Fleet Feet and, despite an interest in him, didn’t want to date a fellow employee.

Runners are, if nothing else, persistent. Chris called on that quality and his love of a challenge in pursuing Melissa.

“She was a tough nut to crack,” Chris says. “We were both coming off bad relationships. Running was the building block of our relationship.”

They eventually ran to the altar. Although running had helped bring them together, they quickly recognized they operated at a different pace, starting in training.

Chris runs around a 6:30-mile pace, while Melissa goes some two minutes per mile slower. Being a gentleman, one would expect Chris to slow down to accommodate Melissa’s pace.

Chivalry only goes so far in the Ramsey household, however.

“My knees hurt when I go slower,” Chris says. He adds they usually don’t do the same races. That allows them to support one another’s running.

“We’re competitive,” he says, “but not with one another.

We encourage one another. We enjoy reaching each other in a race and offering support to the finish line. If we happen to be Hometown Living At Its Best 63

“Running for us is a lifestyle choice. It gives you an inside look at a community and its people. You see that extra slice of time, that moment of Zen. It’s something we can do anywhere at any time for the rest of our lives.”

- Chris Ramsey

in the same race, I’ll double back and run with Melissa to the finish.”

Chris Letsinger has known the Ramseys for about four years. He first met them in 2013 when he joined Fleet Feet’s CREW training program to prepare for his first marathon. Describing Chris as one of the fastest runners he knows, the Savannah resident says he remains humble and is always encouraging other runners, regardless of their ability. Letsinger adds Chris has a special talent when it comes to outfitting runners with shoes. “He is a bit of a shoe whisperer,” Letsinger says. “He’s always able to help a runner find the right shoe for their particular abilities or challenges.”

Letsinger is equally complimentary of Melissa, noting she’s encouraging and supportive of others.

64

chatham county living

“She has personally made me a training plan for a race that didn’t fall into the same timing as a CREW training program,” says Letsinger, adding she’s dedicated in her own running and pushes herself to attain her goals.

Letsinger credits the Ramseys, along with the rest of the Fleet Feet staff, with keeping the sense of the running community alive and well. He says Chris, in particular, has picked up much of the race director duties and ensured those races continued to be flawless events.

Letsinger is equally impressed with the Ramseys’ ability to juggle their personal and professional lives. The great thing about them, he says, is they both work in a field that is also a passionate hobby yet still find time for themselves and others.

“They both are never too busy for a friend,” Letsinger says. “Even if it’s just a quick call or text to check in on you during a rough time, give encouragement for an upcoming race or just to say hello. They both seem to find time to squeeze it all in. Time with family and friends, time with each other and, of course, time for a run.”

Although not obsessed with her race times, Melissa is competitive with herself and has set a goal of running one mile at Chris’s marathon Hometown Living At Its Best

65

pace. At last year’s Savannah Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, Melissa did get the best of her husband, however.

“My trophy says first place,” notes Melissa, who ran the relay. “His says second.” Chris finished second overall, recording a 2:47:40 and qualifying for the Boston Marathon, a race he’s done five times. He’s run 19 marathons and 10 ultramarathons.

Melissa ran in this year’s Boston Marathon on a special exemption. She previously said she wouldn’t run a marathon without first qualifying but in the spirit of running changed course. “I finally realized you take the chances you’re given in life,” says Melissa, whose best marathon time is within 5 minutes of qualifying for Boston. “It’s not every day an opportunity to run the Boston Marathon is presented to you.”

66

chatham county living

When she’s just out for a run, Melissa takes a more relaxed approach.

“That’s my quiet time” she says. “I’ll listen to music. It’s a good stress reliever before a glass of wine.”

Just as in training, the Ramseys tend to do their own thing at work and are not running around the store in tandem. Although it’s a small store, Melissa says they’re not around each other that much and are both focused on the customers.

Chris, being Melissa’s boss but also a smart husband, concurs with his wife. “Our lives cater to individuals who are runners,” he says.

“Running for us is a lifestyle choice. It gives you an inside look at a community and its people. You see that extra slice of time, that moment of Zen. It’s something we can do anywhere at any time for the rest of our lives.”  CCL

They Told Me I Couldn’t, So I Did...

The "industry experts" told me that there is no way my business model would work in the auto repair and service industry. That was 9-years ago and

Rick B

5000+ customers later...

RICK BROUSSARD CEO& FOUNDER

★★★★★

SERVICE ★ REPAIR ★ DIAGNOSTICS 1694 CHATHAM PARKWAY • SAVANNAH, G A • 912.651.5500 • RPMAUTOWORX.COM

68

chatham county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

69

Savannah’s Best Golf. theclubatsavannahharbor.com | 912.201.2240 2 Resort Drive, Savannah, GA 31421

Gift CertiďŹ cates & Local Rates Available.

70

chatham county living

DONIHUE WATERS, DDS, MDS | www.drwatersbraces.com

COMMITTED TO PROVIDING FRIENDLY AND HIGHLY SKILLED ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR ALL AGES! Savannah 9100 White Bluff Rd. Suite 104 912.354.3474

Rincon 613 Towne Park West Dr. Suite 201 912.826.2501

Pooler 145 Traders Way Suite C 912.748.5041

Story by David Pena Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography and More Than Words Photography by Beanna Rendon

72

Chatham county Living

At the Cohen-Anderson Weightlifting Center, forty-one-year-old Franklin Albright aggressively pumps iron on the bench press after completing a set of one arm dead-lifts, all with the resolve of an Olympic athlete. During his workouts, Albright can often be seen talking and joking with other athletes, even acting as cheerleader for “newbies� to the gym,

inspiring them to push their regimen. No, Albright is not your typical gym rat following some routine workout. In 1997 during his sophomore year at Savannah State College, Albright was involved in a serious auto accident which left him in a coma for six weeks and claimed the life of the other passenger. For the last seventeen years, Hometown Living At Its Best

73

“Franklin inspires just about everyone he meets. When someone asked him where his wheelchair was after he began walking, he told them he’d given it to someone who needed it. That’s Franklin in a nutshell.”

Albright has been attending the center as a client of Abilities Unlimited, a local nonprofit organization located in Savannah which is dedicated to providing critically needed services to those in the community who are faced with physical and mental challenges which include neurological conditions, sensory impairments as well as birth defects. Luckily for Franklin, the organization helps clients to continue their much needed physical (and emotional) therapy when insurance has discontinued their rehab sessions.

“I was 22 at the time and out with a friend of mine. It was raining that night, and our car hydroplaned and hit a tree,” Albright recalls. “I sustained a serious head injury that left me in a coma. My friend was not as lucky.” Franklin’s doctors were not optimistic about his survival, advising the family to discontinue his life support. “They said I was in a vegetative state and that my mom should go on and pull the plug.” Three days later, to the amazement of everyone, Albright came out of his coma, and was moved to a regular hospital room to begin inpatient therapy. However, after seven months of grueling sessions at the hospital, Franklin’s insurance stopped funding his sessions due to his “lack of progress.” Forced to sit at home, Albright became disheartened and soon began to flounder from his lack of activity. “I just started deteriorating, getting weaker by the day. That’s when I started to look around for other options (besides the therapy), and I remembered another patient (A.U.’s first client) in the hospital telling me about Abilities Unlimited.” Albright soon began the program as only its second client in 1998 and has been there ever since.

74

Chatham county Living

The organization’s late founder, Rhonda Langford, spent the last years of her life building the Savannah-based program, which was designed to improve the level of fitness and independence for individuals with disabilities. Born in Beaufort, S.C., Langford would become a world recordholding weightlifter herself, and she recognized that there was a segment of the community that would significantly benefit from the services and training she could offer. After Langford’s passing in 2013, the current Director of Community Outreach, Penny Lightfoot, fulfilled a “deathbed promise” to Langford by helping to raise awareness about the growing organization through community outreach, fund raising activities, and

grants. Lightfoot says, “We carry on Rhonda’s legacy by making sure every one of our clients has the support and training needed to improve their quality of life as well as their self-esteem.”

A.U. achieves this through programs that focus on flexibility, general strength conditioning and progressive exercises. The programs are available to anyone with any type of disability, with each client receiving one-on-one training during their scheduled appointments. At a cost of only $10.00 a month, word is quickly spreading about the organization.

Jim Chaplin, Director of Floor Operations, has been with the organization since its inception and is amazed at how their programs have Hometown Living At Its Best

75

Individuals frequently join Abilities Unlimited in order to maintain or enhance a level of fitness that usually begins with physical therapy.

mushroomed. Starting with just a handful of clients in 1999, Abilities Unlimited now services about a hundred per week with many more on a waiting list. “At first the center was like any other gym,” Chaplin says. “We had high school athletes training alongside Olympic athletes that Mike (Cohen) was working with.” The center was built in 1996 as a training site for the 1996 Olympic athletes. However, when the initial clients with disabilities came in, Cohen deferred to Langford to help with their training. She developed a passion for it, and the number of clients soon increased, as did need for additional trainers. Both Lightfoot and Chaplin started as volunteers, generously giving their time to helping Langford build the organization, but as the number of clients grew, the time needed to train them also increased, which was not an issue for Chaplin. “I had gotten back from college with a mechanical engineering degree, but was having a tough time finding a job,” he recalls. “God then put me where He needed me, and Rhonda offered me a position, which I gladly accepted.” With

76

Chatham county Living

Lightfoot says, “We carry on Rhonda’s legacy by making sure every one of our clients has the support and training needed to improve their quality of life as well as their self-esteem.” A.U. achieves this through programs that focus on flexibility, general strength conditioning and progressive exercises.

his background as a personal trainer, Chaplin found that he had to modify the workouts to suit the client. “Luckily all of our equipment is adaptive, and we can tailor each one to adapt to the client’s ability, focusing on the area that suits their needs.”

Chaplin is one of a number of trainers that has been amazed at Albright’s accomplishments.

“When Frank came to us, he was confined to a wheelchair and really couldn’t do very much.

Most people gave up on him, but he simply would not give up on himself.” After his coma, the doctors told him to be thankful that he was alive, but Albright was determined to get his life back on track. “He went back to school, got a degree, and ultimately got a job, despite the odds against him,” he says. Pennie Lightfoot echoes the sentiment. “Franklin inspires just

Hometown Living At Its Best

77

A.U.’s services also include Basic and Advanced Wheelchair Exercise as well as Paralympic Training. The organization even boasts a Special Olympics Power lifting squad of forty athletes who train year-round, traveling to regional competitions which include the Special Olympic games in Atlanta every winter.

78

Chatham county Living

about everyone he meets. When someone asked him where his wheelchair was after he began walking, he told them he’d given it to someone who needed it. That’s Franklin in a nutshell.”

A.U.’s services also include Basic and Advanced Wheelchair Exercise as well as Paralympic Training. The organization even boasts a Special Olympics Power lifting squad of forty athletes who train year-round, traveling to regional competitions which include the Special Olympic games in Atlanta every winter. Abilities Unlimited also supports many local fund-raisers, including the Low Country Down Syndrome Buddy

Walk and the Cancer Relay For Life. In order to help cover the cost of its now seven employees, A.U. receives funding from the Chatham County, Gulfstream Aerospace, and the United Way, which funds its Progressive Exercise Program (P.E.P.).

Individuals frequently join Abilities Unlimited in order to maintain or enhance a level of fitness that usually begins with physical therapy. Lightfoot notes, “We often get referrals from physical therapists, doctors, or sometimes family members. Since most insurance policies put a limitation on the number of physical therapy sessions, our program often takes up where (insurance) leaves off. But there are no limitations with us; it’s a program for a lifetime.”

Franklin Albright’s tale of triumph in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds is one of many success stories that A.U. has been part of. In fact, in its 2016 campaign video, the local United Way highlighted the work of three of its agencies, Abilities Unlimited being one of them. One story featured a young girl named Lauren who battled back after a near-fatal brain tumor. In the video, she credits Chaplin and the A.U. staff with her ability to walk again. Albright is especially grateful for the impact that the organization has made on his life. “I would have never been able to achieve my goals without Abilities Unlimited,” he says. “They helped me gain normality again, and that’s something you just can’t put a price on.”  CCL

Insist on Hospice Savannah!

“Other hospices often misrepresent themselves and their level of service.

Be a savvy healthcare consumer and insist on the only notfor-profit and Joint Commission accredited hospice in our community.

Let us help you to live better!*� ~ Julia Johnson, MD, MPH

Chief Medical Officer, Hospice Savannah, Inc. Board certified in Hospice and Palliative Medicine

Find out more at www.HospiceSavannah.org

912.355.2289

Helping in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Long for almost 40 years. *Hospice and palliative care is clinically proven to extend and improve quality of life

Hometown Living At Its Best

79

嘀漀琀攀搀 䈀攀猀琀 䄀搀瘀攀渀琀甀爀攀 吀漀甀爀 漀渀 吀礀戀攀攀 䤀猀氀愀渀搀 昀漀爀 㤀 猀琀爀愀椀最栀琀 礀攀愀爀猀 愀渀搀 挀漀甀渀琀椀渀最℀

䌀愀瀀琀愀椀渀

䴀䤀䬀䔀ᤠ匀 䐀伀䰀倀䠀䤀一 吀伀唀刀匀 䘀愀洀椀氀礀 伀眀渀攀搀 ☀ 伀瀀攀爀愀琀攀搀

吀夀䈀䔀䔀 䤀匀䰀䄀一䐀 ∠ 㤀㄀㈀⸀㜀㠀㘀⸀㔀㠀㐀㠀 ∠ 眀眀眀⸀琀礀戀攀攀搀漀氀瀀栀椀渀猀⸀挀漀洀 80

chatham county living

Protect your future.

Protect what you have now.

State Farm® offers life insurance that allows flexibility to protect your family’s finances, not only in the future but today!

State Farm® offers life insurance that We are happy to assist you so you can strive for a more secure future with life insurance your needs.

State Farm® offersthat lifesuits insurance that Talk to a State Farm agent today!

allows flexibility to protect your family’s

allows flexibility to protect your family’s finances, not only in the future but today! finances, not only in the future but today!

We are happy to assist you so you can

Clay Clark, Agent 8102 Old Augusta Rd Port Wentworth, GA 31407 Bus: 912-966-2688 clay.clark.rksd@statefarm.com

We are happy to assist youfuture so you can strive for a more secure with life insurance that suits your needs. strive for a more secure future with life Bob Ward, Agent Bill Richard, Agent insurance that suits your needs.

6029 Ogeechee Road 20 East Montgomery Crossroad Talk to a State Farm agent Savannah, today! GA 31406 Savannah, GA 31419 Bus: 912-925-3943 bob.ward.bwv7@statefarm.com

Bus: 912-927-3033

Talk to a State Farm agent today! bill.richard.gat7@statefarm.com

ClayErica ClarkHerndon 81023228 Old Augusta RdRd • Suite 101 Skidaway Port Savannah, Wentworth,GA GA31404 31407 912-966-2688 912-354-6464 clay@clayclarksf.com myneighborerica.com erica@myneighborerica.com 1505054 State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) - State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) - Bloomington, IL Bill Richard 20 East Montgomery Crossroad London Arashiro Savannah, GAof31406 49 Park Commerce Way • Suite 201 912-927-3033 Savannah, GA 31405 bill.richard.gat7@statefarm 912-352-7203 londonismyagent.com Ericalondon@londonismyagent.com Herndon Timmons 3228 Skidaway Rd Savannah, GA 31404 Bill Richard 912-354-6464 20 East Montgomery Crossroad myneighborerica.com Savannah, GA 31406 erica@myneighborerica.com 912-927-3033 bill.richard.gat7@statefarm Bob Ward 6029Clay Ogeechee Clark Road Hwy 17 South A Rd • Suite 101 8102 Old Suite Augusta Savannah, GA 31419 GA 31407 Port Wentworth, 912-925-3943 912-966-2688 bobwardagent.com clay@clayclarksf.com Clay Clark, Bill Richard, Ward, Erica Herndon Timmons.

(L-R) Bill Richard, LondonBob Arashiro, Erica Herndon, Clay Clark bob.ward.bwv7@statefarm.com

*Discounts may vary state to state. Based on a 2008 internal State Farm claims department national study.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL 1505054

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) - State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) - Bloomington, IL

EST.1987

We’re here to serve those who have served us

EASY TRANSFERS & WE WELCOME TRICARE INSURANCE Quick Rx Drugs/ The Prescription Shop 911 E 65th St Savannah, GA, 31405 (912) 355-0122

Quick Rx Drugs for Long Term Care 516 US Highway 80 West Savannah, GA, 31408 (912) 966-1416

Quick Rx Drugs in Pooler 110 Medical Park Dr Pooler, GA, 31322 (912) 748-3194

Quick Rx Drugs Whitemarsh Island 1001 Memorial Ln Savannah, GA, 31410 (912) 898-7535

Quick RX Drugs 5204 Augusta Rd Garden City, GA, 31408 (912) 966-5665 Quick Rx Drugs in Rincon 100 Goshen Rd Rincon, GA, 31326 (912) 826-6008 Quick Rx Drugs/ Weitmans in Springfield 504 North Laurel Street Springfield, GA, 31329 (912) 754-6444

that’ll make you swoon

We ship nationwide

downtown: 42 Abercorn St, (beside the Lucas Theatre) Savannah, GA 912-665-9894

photography by Labeeb Abdullah, design by Leslie Walsh / Gifted Creative Group 2016

midtown: south side: 5002Eisenhower Paulsen St, 1100 (at the Dr.,corner Suiteof2866th) Savannah, GA Savannah, GA 912-665-9894 912-665-9894 && on on HHI HHI

marchedemacarons.com

gluten free

Let us cater to you! Weddings, Special Events & Corporate Accounts Amy Shippy • 912 665-9894 • mdmacarons@gmail.com

co-owners Amy Shippy & Laura Hale Hometown Living At Its Best

83

84

chatham county living

Photos by Ryan Lee Photography

HISTORIC Bonaventure CEMETERY

B

Bonaventure Cemetery lies along the Wilmington River, a short distance from Savannah’s “historic district,” but no less historically significant. Settled

by Colonel Mylryne about 1760, he built a red brick plantation house on the land and named the place Bonaventure, which means “good fortune” in French. The plantation was the site of Mulryne’s daughter Mary’s wedding to Josiah Tattnall in 1761.

The property was seized during the Revolutionary War after Mulryne and Tattnall declared themselves Hometown Living At Its Best

85

Loyalists and left for England. Tattnall’s son returned after the war and purchased the home from James Habersham.

The property remained in the hands of the family until 1840 when it was sold to Captain Peter Wilberger, owner of the Pulaski house for use as a cemetery. The city of Savannah purchased the cemetery in 1907.

Many of Savannah’s statesmen, citizens and soldiers are buried in Bonaventure Cemetery in the shade of 250-year-old moss-laden oak trees. Savannah founders

86

chatham county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

87

Noble Wimberly Jones and Edward Telfair are buried here along with Civil War Generals: Robert J. Anderson, Henry R. Jackson, Alexander R. Lawton, Hugh W. Mercer, Claudius C. Wilson and Commodore Josiah Tattnall. In more recent years, famous Savannah celebrities laid to rest in Bonaventure include singer and lyricist Johnny Mercer

88

chatham county living

and poet Conrad Aiken.

In a cemetery of many unusual tombstones, perhaps one of the most unique is one in the shape of a piano. The interesting tombstones and vaults, the colorful camellias and azaleas, and the wonderful old live oak, dogwood and magnolia trees have made the cemetery one of the most photographed in the country.

Hometown Living At Its Best

89

90

chatham county living

In recent years, Bonaventure Cemetery has become one of Savannah’s most popular tourist attractions, primarily due to its role in John Berendt’s best-selling book, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The cover of the book features the “Bird Girl” which used to reside in the cemetery. The sculpture has since been moved to the Telfair Museum of Art. The cemetery is open from dusk to dawn and tours are available through the Bonaventure Historical Society Tour director (912) 897-3313 Info from Bonaventure Cemetery Historical Society website  CCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

91

2 n

Travis Sawyer RealtorÂŽ

Call me today to purchase or sell your property.

Direct: 912.308.7430

• Office: 912.897.6320

email: travis@parkerscottproperties.com

Creatively Buying and Selling Property

parkerscottproperties.com/agents/TravisSawyer 110 chatham Chatham County Living 92 county living

LifeAfter Retirement Life for Peggy Cone doesn’t end after retirement. At Savannah Commons she continues her much loved activities.

P

Peggy Cone is a native of Savannah and a resident of Savannah Commons. She worked at Georgia Regional in the Credit Union and in an office at Armstrong for about four years. She was an Art Instructor at Armstrong State University for 29 years in the Continuing Education Department. Peggy was also the Co-Owner of Gallery 209 on River Street where her art was displayed and sold for 30 years.

In October 2016, after her second stroke, Peggy chose to move to Savannah Commons. Her father-in-law had been living there; he really liked it and was happy. Being in the neighborhood, Peggy was familiar with Savannah Commons and the residents. Because her father-in-law had been happy living there, she knew she would too. Her hobbies include the painting club, bingo, and playing the piano during dinner and at happy hour. Peggy would encourage anyone to live at Savannah Commons. She said that when her father-in-law

was a resident, she told them to “spoil him good� and now she is the one being spoiled.

Whether you are looking for independent or assisted living, Savannah Commons offers the ideal retirement lifestyle. Located on the Southside of historic Savannah GA, our active, vibrant full-service retirement community embodies southern hospitality with a focus on family and a strong reputation for care.

Offering independent living, assisted living and memory care, Savannah Commons provides the security of a resident-focused community, encouraging independence in a family-like atmosphere. Whether you want to eliminate the burdens of home ownership or you are looking for additional supportive services, choosing Savannah Commons provides you the peace of mind knowing you have selected a community offering the highest level of personal service.

One Peachtree Drive | Savannah, Georgia 31419 912.927.0500 | www.savannahcommons.com

Bring Your Love For Life

WWW.DENTALDESIGNSAVANNAH.COM Phone: (912) 234-1944 3 0 0 B u l l S t r e e t S ava n n a h , G A 3 1 4 0 1 Richard M. Thomas, Jr., D.M.D.

Personalized patient specific care in the heart of Historic Savannah.

ent

EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT ASSOCIATES OF SAVANNAH, PC

5201 FREDERICK STREET | SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 31405 | 912-351-3030 | ENTSAVANNAH.COM

Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates of Savannah, P.C. has been providing expert medical care to patients of all ages in Savannah since 1977. Our medical professionals specialize in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Our board certified Physicians, Audiologists, and Allergy specialist at Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates of Savannah, LLC utilize the most advanced technologies and procedures to ensure all patients the best results with the least discomfort.

Audiology and Hearing Aid Services, is our on site Audiology department with certified Doctors of Audiology making us the Southeast’s Premier Hearing Healthcare Team.

For our patients convenience we have our own Surgery Center and satellite office locations in The Landings, Pooler, Rincon, Richmond Hill, Statesboro and Bluffton, SC.

40 YEARS OF SERVICE

Southeast Georgia’s Only Level I Trauma Center

Experience

Quality Care.

Inside this building, lives change every day. Last year alone, 3,501 people were rushed here with injuries so extreme, they required the region’s only Level 1 trauma center. Within these walls, surgeons, nurses, and emergency professionals provide lifesaving care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In fact, this facility’s trauma care was ranked among the Top 100 in the Nation for Patient Safety by CareChex®.* We hope you never need our trauma center. But if you do, we’re always here.

Experience Excellence. Memorial Health.

memorialhealth.com *

CareChex—an information service of Quantros, Inc.

pediatric therapy in a

caring and nuturing environment

Live Oak Children’s Therapy offers individual physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy from birth through adolescence. We focus on making therapy a fun place to be, while providing our young patients with the one-on-one care they need to develop and thrive. LEARN, LAUGH, PLAY.

Linda Fruin | 912-355-3392 | info@liveoakchildrens.com

Live Oak Children’s Therapy 7130 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Ste 100 Savannah, GA 31406

912-355-3392 | liveoakchildrens.com

By David Pena | Photos by Ryan Lee Photography and provided by Thrivent Financial

Planting Seeds

of Hope

98 chatham county living

How one financial advisement company helps its members make a difference in their community with shared generosity.

V

Vann Doubleday is a man who truly loves his job. As a Christian financial advisor for Thrivent Financial services, the Savannah native regularly witnesses the multitude of ways in which his work positively impacts the community. “Our purpose at Thrivent is to serve our members and society by guiding them to be wise with their money while also living generously. We believe that all that we are given in this life are gifts from God, and that generosity should be shared,” he says. One such “gift” that seems to set Thrivent apart from other financial service companies is that their members receive about $500 every year, providing they use the money to give back to the community in some way. “We give our members $250.00 twice a year to conduct service projects,” says Doubleday. “This could involve fund raising, feeding the homeless, building a wheelchair ramp, or any other charitable act for the good of others.”

Doubleday joined Thrivent in 2013 because he felt that the

Hometown Living At Its Best

99

“Our purpose at Thrivent is to serve our members and society by guiding them to be wise with their money while also living generously.”

- Vann Doubleday

company policies best represented his personal beliefs, namely that one’s blessings in life are meant to be shared with others. “Most financial advisors are about asset gathering or investing exclusively, but our focus is more about how we can teach our clients to be financially successful through the use of Biblical financial wisdom, while also being generous with what they attain.

I’ve been with Thrivent for five years, and it was because of this generosity of the company that I joined, ” he says.

As a married father of a five-year-old daughter, Doubleday knows the value of giving back, particularly when his wife, 100

chatham county living

Paying It Forward This idea of “paying it forward” is not exactly a new concept for the Fortune 500 Company; Thrivent Financial has been helping its members combine finances, faith and generosity since 1902.

Jennifer, is part of an organization that is a beneficiary of some of Thrivent’s programs. “My wife works for the Savannah Children’s Theater, which has benefited from the work we do, so that’s another plus.”

This idea of “paying it forward” is not exactly a new concept for the Fortune 500 Company; Thrivent Financial has been helping its members combine finances, faith and generosity since 1902. Currently Thrivent now boasts more than 2.3 million members who receive guidance from financial representatives nationwide. Because of its nonprofit status, the company takes money that otherwise would have gone Hometown Living At Its Best

101

to the government to pay taxes and gives it back to its members in the form of “seed money” which helps fund local projects that benefit the community.

Criteria for Thrivent membership is fairly straightforward, albeit fairly unique, as Doubleday explains, “In order to be a member, you basically have to be a Christian who abides by the Apostles’ Creed, in addition to working with Thrivent in some capacity. Once you are a member, this gives you access to several benefits, one of which is being part of a Thrivent Action Team.” Doubleday adds, “The fraternal side of our company allows us to be nonprofit, and our Action Teams are part of the volunteer program for Thrivent members.” Thus, the Thrivent member simply chooses a worthy cause that they are passionate about, comes up with a project, and fills out an on-line application. Once approved, the member gathers a team of volunteers together. Within three weeks, a Thrivent Action Kit arrives on their doorstep to kick start the process. This kit includes up to 25 T-shirts, a banner, as well as a Visa gift card with a $250.00 limit. While technically not a gift or grant, this “seed money” is used to help with expenses for the project. “A lot of what keeps people

A Helping Heart Since 2014 when the process began, Action Teams have tackled such diverse projects as cutting fleece blankets for patients in a children’s hospital, creating “Birthday Bags” for families at local shelters, even holding a community dog wash and donating the proceeds to a local animal shelter.

102

chatham county living

from giving back to their community has to do with monetary restrictions, so what (Thrivent) tries to do is remove that restriction,” notes Doubleday.

“It’s not just writing a check, however; it’s about giving people the means to be involved and actually participate.”

Since 2014 when the process began, Action Teams have tackled such diverse projects as cutting fleece blankets for patients in a children’s hospital, creating “Birthday Bags” for families at local shelters, even holding a community dog wash and donating the proceeds to a local animal shelter. Last year, there was a community-wide “sleep out,” where teams actually sleep outside for one night to help raise awareness of the problem of homelessness while collecting donations for a local shelter. One action team at Gateway Community Church held a movie night, using its seed money to purchase movie,

candy, and popcorn. Church staffer Jodie Lamon recalls, “Over 200 attendees showed up, and the price of admission was to bring some canned goods.

All in all, the event brought in over 2000 cans of food to help feed hungry local children, which exceeded our expectations.”

Joshua Smith, who is preparing to start his second team, also acknowledges the impact of Thrivent’s program. “As a banker with Bank of America, I have some knowledge of how many financial organizations work, but Thrivent is on a totally different level; they are truly invested in the idea of helping its clients to not only benefit themselves, but to also help those around them as well,” he says. When a friend’s mother was diagnosed with a very rare type of brain cancer, Smith’s team partnered with the Savannah Wine Cellar to set up a wine tasting to help raise funds for her. The seed

Hometown Living At Its Best

103

“Aside from the financial services that we provide, helping to use money as a tool and not as an objective is, I think, one of the things that sets Thrivent apart. The fact that we’ve been able to take money that would have gone to the government in taxes and direct it to help local families is just a win-win for everyone.”

- Vann Doubleday money was used to purchase fliers, wine, and the space to hold the event. “We were surprised to have such a great turnout of over forty people, and more importantly, we raised over two thousand dollars for her mother to get research at Duke University,” Smith says.

Despite the apparent success of the Action Teams, Doubleday realizes that the possibilities for the program have yet to be fully realized. “With about 100 Action Teams, we’ve been able to leverage about $150,000 for the community last year alone. While that number is impressive, we have about 2000 members in the area, so there’s much more that could be done.

If everyone used their action teams to their fullest, we could 104

chatham county living

easily see over a million dollars in leverage money,” he says. One small caveat, however, involves finding worthwhile causes to tackle. “Many local organizations have a number of worthwhile projects that need starting,” says Doubleday, “but we’re finding that a number of members are hard pressed to come up with something to participate in.” To that end, Thrivent soon plans to host a “Shark Tank” style event called Action Tank, where five local charities will pitch two project ideas that several members will sign up to help with. The company hopes that this event will help to promote volunteerism and give the Action Teams fresh ideas.

Encouraged by the great results of last year’s action teams, Doubleday is optimistic about the program’s potential for the future. “Aside from the financial services that we provide, helping to use money as a tool and not as an objective is, I think, one of the things that sets Thrivent apart. The fact that we’ve been able to take money that would have gone to the government in taxes and direct it to help local families is just a win-win for everyone. For a program that hasn’t been around very long, I can only imagine what it’s going to snowball into over the next few years.”  CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

105

“COME AS A GUEST AND STAY AS A FRIEND.” „Unforgettable Bakery & Café supports people in need - locally and abroad. Our purpose is to provide a delicious variety of homemade cakes, desserts and healthy dishes made from the finest ingredients. We are a local bakery and café with a striving purpose and great passion.“

Unforgettable Bakery & Café was just recently awarded with Best Gumbo in Savannah 10% Military Discount

Weekend Specials

Take out orders welcome

Senior Citizen Discount

Catering available

Assorted Salads by the pound

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/unforgettablebakerydeli

106

chatham county living

238 Eisenhower Dr. / Savannah, GA 31406 (912) 355-6160 | www.unforgettablebakery.com

LET US

Help Relieve

YOUR PAIN

SPECIALIZING IN NON SURGICAL TREATMENT OF PAIN FOR: Degnerative Disc Disease Disc Herniation Arthritis Of The Spine Si (Sacroiliac) Joint Problems Sciatica Peripheral Neuropathy Shingles Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (Rsd) And Many Other Causes Of Persistent Pain

Keith A. Kirby, M.D.

Board Certified Diplomat of Pain Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

8 Wheeler Street, Savannah, GA 31405 | (912) 352-4340 | www.savannahpainmanagement.com Hometown Living At Its Best

107

2 New n The DoubleTree

BY HILTON

Savannah Airport

Stylish Guest Suites Featuring: • All Suites Hotel • Microwave & Mini Fridge • Sleeper Sofas • Keurig Coffee Makers • Partitioned Living Room & Bedroom Areas • Two Flat Screen Televisions

Savannah Kitchen • Full Restaurant & Bar • Daily Happy Hour • All Menu Items Prepared From Scratch • Room Service Available For Breakfast & Dinner • Daily Dining Specials • 24-Hour Grab & Go Meal Options Available

Meeting Rooms • 1,200 Square Feet of Meeting Space • Seating Up To 65 People • On Site Catering • Audio Visual Equipment Available • Complimentary Wireless Access • House Sound System Available

Welcome to Savannah!

Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Savannah Airport, moments from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and Historic Savannah District.

Experience modern amenities and a warm welcome from our dedicated staff along with our signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie upon arrival.

50 Yvette Johnson Hagins Drive - Savannah, Georgia 31408 S ava n n a h A i r p o r t . D o u b l e Tre e. c o m ( 9 1 2 ) 9 6 5 - 9 5 9 5

96 108

Chatham Living chatham County county living

RV SALES | RV & OUTDOOR GEAR | RV MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

Camping World has the nation’s largest selection of RVs with over 100 locations across the country. We take pride in helping you go to the places you want with the people you love. Our goal is to make every customer a happy camper.

129 CONTINENTAL BLVD | POOLER, GA 31322 | (866) 886-7694 | campingworldofsavannah.com

David M. Kessler Fine Art

2 n

“Modern Jazz 8” 30x30 Acrylic on Canvas

“It Started Out Red” 20x20 Acrylic on Canvas

“Tidal Shift 3” 36x36 Acrylic on Canvas

“Evening Excursion 4” 48x48 Acrylic on Canvas

Contemporary Abstract Paintings for the Modern Home and Office www.davidmkessler.com 336-418-3038 david@davidmkessler.com 110

76 Chatham County Living chatham county living

112

Chatham county living

Story By D. Annette Sasser | Photos by Ryan Lee Photography

MAKING A

Positive

DIFFERENCE

D

Dr. Karl Coxhead has worn many hats, but nothing fulfills him more than making a difference in his patients lives with his chiropratic work.

Dr. Karl Coxhead performed before thousands at the National Mime Theater of Quebec. He studied for the priesthood at the Scarboro Foreign Mission Society in Quebec, and even enjoyed a successful lifestyle as a business owner of two popular restaurants and a large boat marina in Key West, Florida, before he unsuspectingly discovered the career that would fulfill him and enable him to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Dr. Karl Edwin Joseph Coxhead was born June 13, 1947, in Quebec,

Hometown Living At Its Best

113

Canada. He grew up on a rural farm in Quebec with parents who lived and taught their children the value of practicing a healthy lifestyle. “We grew our own vegetables,” said Dr. Coxhead.

“My mother was a Swiss Chef and when my parents decided to open a Swiss restaurant in the middle of nowhere in rural Quebec, it became very successful. People came from everywhere to eat there. Like in the movie Field of Dreams, if you build it and you’re good, success will come.

Growing up, I worked in the family restaurant. I did it all - dishwasher, busboy and waiter.”

In 1965, after graduating high school, Dr. Coxhead enrolled in the Scarboro Foreign Mission Society to study for the priesthood. “I had a passion for life and I loved helping people,” said Dr. Coxhead. “That’s why I decided to become a

Dr. Coxhead left the seminary in 1968. He went on to study at Sir George Williams University in Montreal from 1969 until 1972. He was still searching for a way to help individual people.

114

Chatham county living

missionary priest. But after three years I felt somewhat ostracized from society because of certain restrictions placed on catholic seminarians like not being able to marry. On the weekends I would be invited to the homes of people I grew up with and they would be there with their families. I began to realize that it would be hard to counsel families and marriages if I never had a wife and children of my own. It didn’t make a whole lot of sense to me. I decided that I could help people better outside the priesthood.”

Dr. Coxhead left the seminary in 1968. He went on to study at Sir George Williams University in Montreal from 1969 until 1972. He was still searching for a way to help individual people. “I worked in the family restaurant to pay my way through school,” said Dr. Coxhead. “At the same time I began looking for some kind of expression of art. I tried the guitar but it didn’t do a lot for me.”

One day in 1975, while walking in an unfamiliar part of town, Dr. Coxhead saw a sign publicizing the National Mime Theater Of Quebec. Although he had previously been involved with Pilates, a type of exercise, he felt an overwhelming trepidation at the

thought of getting up on stage and repeating lines. He climbed the stairs to the Mime Theater to investigate.

“I was extremely shy as a child and even into early adulthood,” said Dr. Coxhead. “But when I walked into the room where they were practicing, this guy looked up and then walked straight over to me. He stared at me for a moment without saying a word. Then he pointed his finger at me and said, ‘You’re a Mime!’”

Intrigued by the man’s straightforwardness, Dr. Coxhead joined the mime theater. He discovered that as a mime performer, he could hide behind a mask and perform a character role without feeling intimidated or conspicuous. He also found the art both exciting and freeing. “Mime taught me so much,” he said. “I learned how to flow fluently in a way that was both fulfilling and liberating. It helped free me from shyness and enhanced my ability to exercise properly.”

In 1980, after five years of performing with the National Mime Theater in Quebec, Dr. Coxhead received an interesting phone call from a friend in Key West, Florida. “I had vacationed in Key West a few times and had become friends with the owner of a hotel I frequented. He knew about my background in the

Hometown Living At Its Best 115

“We were very successful and able to live a rewarding lifestyle. But the businesses failed to give me the gratification I sought in being able to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

Dr. Karl Coxhead

116 Chatham county living

restaurant business and wondered if I might be interested in a restaurant that was for sale in Key West.”

The restaurant was in a good location and looked promising. Dr. Coxhead had to decide between purchasing the restaurant and moving to Key West, or staying in Quebec and continuing on as a professional mime performer. “I was thirty-three and I had wanted to get married and start a family since I was twenty-five,” said Dr. Coxhead.

“I didn’t feel that I could support a family on a mime troupe salary so I opted to buy the restaurant.”

In 1980 Dr. Coxhead and a partner purchased the restaurant. The deal was closed within four days. The restaurant, named “Half Shell Raw Bar” prospered so much that a year and half later they were able to purchase a second restaurant, called Kraals. Before long, they built a large marina behind Kraals. “We had seventy-one employees including four managers,” said Dr. Coxhead.

“We were very successful and able to live a rewarding lifestyle. But the businesses failed to give me the gratification I sought in being able to make a positive difference in people’s lives.” That’s when he first considered becoming a medical doctor. “I even started attending classes at the Florida Keys Community College to get my prerequisites out of the way.”

During this time he began having severe headaches. “I had never had a problem with headaches,” said Dr. Coxhead, “After twenty-nine days of constant pain, I went to see my physician. He first prescribed a medication for possible enlarged blood vessels. When that medication didn’t help, he decided that perhaps the blood vessels must be restricted and gave me a reversal medication.

After I still had no relief, he sent me to Miami for an MRI.” Shortly after the MRI results came back showing nothing unusual or suspicious, Dr. Coxhead made an exciting discovery that changed the direction of his life. “A man came to speak to my psychology class.

He was representing a chiropractor and shared on the many benefits

He began to research everything he could find on chiropractic medicine and soon realized that he might have found what he had been looking for: A way to make a positive difference.

of chiropractic medicine. “I was a little leery because my dad had always referred to chiropractors as quacks. The man’s talk was interesting, however. And when he mentioned that chiropractic adjustments could help relieve headaches, I decided to sign up to participate in the half price x-rays and adjustments that were being offered for the following day.”

When the chiropractor showed him his x-rays, she suggested that she could possibly help relieve his headaches. “She pointed out a problem area on my spine at the neck,” said Dr. Coxhead. “After a couple of adjustments, the headaches were completely gone. I was amazed.”

He began to research everything he could find on chiropractic medicine and soon realized that he might have found what he had been looking for: A way to make a positive difference. He discovered that the largest chiropractor school in the world was in Marietta, Georgia. He knew what he wanted to do. In 1984 he sold out to his partner and moved to Marietta to go back to school for another six years. “With no financial concerns, I was able to attend school.” Dr. Coxhead said.

Dr. Coxhead traveled up and down the east coast and west coast, looking for a suitable place to open a clinic. When I asked him why he chose Savannah, he sat back in his chair and smiled. “My dad is from Liverpool Hometown Living At Its Best

117

and my mom is from Switzerland. My mom’s house in Switzerland has been in the family for centuries. I grew up with an understanding of the value of history and heritage. I wanted to put down roots in a place that had a long line of historical roots. I chose Savannah because of its beauty and history.”

Dr. Coxhead came to Savannah to feel out the area in January of 1990. He rented a house on Wilmington Island and chose a most unusual way to introduce himself to the community. “I knocked on every door on Wilmington Island,” he said, “and asked residents how they felt about having a chiropractor in the area. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I performed in front of thousands as a mime, but walking along the streets with people staring and wondering what I was pedaling was really hard. After awhile word got out that there was a chiropractor walking around, and most people began to welcome me.” Many later became patients.

Two months later, Dr. Coxhead’s wife and two year old daughter joined him. On August 26, 1990, he opened Island’s Chiropractic Clinic on Wilmington Island. Dr. Coxhead strives to help his patients become healthy and pain free and he leads by example. Four days a week, no matter the season, he drives the ten miles to Tybee Island to push a cart out onto the beach loaded with

118

Chatham county living

hand weights, ankle weights, and a huge band stretching tubing. “I go to Tybee because the crashing waves release negative ions, which is very relaxing and calming,” said Dr. Coxhead.

“I do an incredible workout of lifting weights, breathing and stretching. I allow my body to relax and move into every range of motion possible. I am sixty-nine years old, and I wake up every day pain free. I love what I do. I don’t go to work, I call what I do enjoyment. I love using my hands to help people. First I find the problem. And then I fix it. It is very rewarding.”

I became one of Dr. Coxhead’s patients in 1999. On my first visit, I discovered that he spends an hour with each new patient. “I get to know my patients by listening to them,” said Dr. Coxhead. “That is very important to me. It also allows them to get a sense of who I am and where I am coming from.”

A painting on the wall of the Island’s Chiropractor clinic shows two hands working on a patient’s back. The painting, which was done by a patient and presented to him as a gift, depicts the capable, skillful way in which Dr. Karl Coxhead continues to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Like many others in Savannah, I am grateful that Dr. Coxhead chose to make that difference here.

Islands Chiropractic Clinic is located at 483 Johnny Mercer Blvd., Savannah, GA. The website is islandschiropracticclinic.yolasite.com and the phone number 912-897-9360.  CCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

119

912.445.2163 8872 Ford Avenue Suite 207 Richmond Hill GA 31324

www.georgiagamechangers.com

120

chatham county living

Indescribably Good For Over 20 Years!

ESCRIBABLY GOOD FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings • Fresh Salads ecialty Sandwiches • Homemade Sauces • Party Platters

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

[Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings] [Fresh Salads] [Specialty Sandwiches] [Homemade Sauces] [Party Platters]

Locations Three LocationsThree to Serve You!

geechee Road nah, GA 31419

.961.5570

5 9 7 1 100 O g Old e e cRichmond h e e Ro a Road d Pt. Wentworth, S a v a n n a h , G A 3 1GA 4 131407 9 9 1 2 . 9912.395.8884 61.5570

to Serve You!

1 0 0 O80 l dExchange R i c h m oStreet n d Ro a d Richmond P t . We n t w o rHill, t h ,GA G A31324 31407 9 1 912.459.1445 2.395.8884

80 Exchange Street R i c h m o n d H i l l , G A 3 13 2 4

912.459.1445

Hometown Living At Its Best

121

2 n

630 West Bay Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401

912.629.2001 | 912.629.2002 ChoiceHotels.com

Savannah Historic District savannahcomfortsuites.com

This historic all-suites hotel is located in Downtown Savannah off of I-95 and I-16 only 2 blocks from River Street and the City Market area, near the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, Savannah Civic Center and the Savannah College of Art & Design. • Comfort Suites Historic District Hotel, recipient of the TripAdvisorŽ 2014 Certificate of Excellence offers a wide range of amenities and value adds.

Hotel Amenities Free wireless high-speed Internet access | Free hot deluxe breakfast Free transportation within the historic district | Pet-friendly suites | Motorcycle wash area | On-site Market

106 122

Chatham County Living chatham county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

123

124

chatham county living

By David Pena | Photos by Ryan Lee Photography

SLOW AND STEADY

WINS THE RACE

A

At 88 years young, Cecil Abarr has lived a fulfilling and successful life by anyone’s standards.

Since Abarr moved to Savannah in 1978 as vice president of the Branigar Organization, his philanthropic efforts have been truly impressive.

Among his substantial list of civic activities, Abarr was a past chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Board as well as a member of the Advisory Board of Georgia Southern University’s Business School. As a member of the Wesley Monumental Methodist Church, Abarr was involved with the reorganization of the South Georgia Conference as well as over 40 churches

For nearly forty years, Cecil Abarr has been a quiet force of positivity and change in the Savannah area.

Hometown Living At Its Best

125

When discussing his illustrious list of accomplishments, Cecil quickly credits the most influential person in his life, his mother Marietta, who chose to teach her seven children by example.

that comprise that body. As Chairman of the Candler Board of Trustees, Abarr was integral to the merger between Candler and St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1996, providing leadership during the incredibly complex process. Not too shabby for a small town Iowa boy.

However, when Abarr found himself in the hospital going through heart bypass surgery last July, the experience allowed for quiet reflection on a most amazing life. “I could have gone either way,” Abarr recalls. “I was fine with anything that happened, whenever and wherever the Lord takes me.” Knowing that he’d done his best to help and encourage others while leading an exemplary life, according to the octogenarian, allowed him to accept whatever life would throw at him. Luckily for all who know Cecil, he made a full recovery and continues to enrich the lives of anyone he meets.

When discussing his illustrious list of accomplishments, Cecil quickly credits the most influential person in his life, his mother Marietta, who chose to teach her seven children by example. “My mother was my guiding light,” Abarr says. “She was the mother of the year in southwest Iowa, and known as one of the best cooks around.” Often helping others in the community, she tirelessly worked to provide for her seven children as a single mother. As a young man, Cecil felt an obligation to help the family and began working full-time as an eighth grader. “My dad took off after my mother had her seventh child, so to help out, I started working on my grandfather’s farm before and after school.”

Rain or shine, seven days a week Cecil and his younger brother would walk the two miles to their grandfather’s farm to milk five cows, feed the chickens, and do whatever needed doing. “It’s just something I felt I had to do,” he says. “It was the

126

chatham county living

only option, but I was glad to help out.” Abarr’s can-do attitude, along with his tireless work ethic, proved to be quite integral to his success in years to come.

At seventeen, Abarr enlisted in the Army and soon found himself on a 30-day cruise to Okinawa along with 2500 fellow recruits. At the time, enlistees could serve an 18-month stint, long enough for Cecil to attain the rank of sergeant, overseeing all top secret information coming onto the island for the army. During his 18 months of active duty, Abarr earned 30 months of college credit under the GI Bill, and proceeded to earn his business management degree from Simpson College in Des Moines in just three years.

After college Abarr’s first job was with a carbon paper manufacturer. Luckily for him, the company quickly grew from being a small familyowned business to become the world’s largest carbon-paper manufacturer in the world. During his tenure there, Abarr was exposed to the various facets of business operations, providing him with ample amounts of experience in a variety of roles that would serve him well throughout his

At seventeen, Abarr enlisted in the Army and soon found himself on a 30-day cruise to Okinawa along with 2500 fellow recruits. At the time, enlistees could serve an 18-month stint, long enough for Cecil to attain the rank of sergeant, overseeing all top secret information coming onto the island for the army.

Hometown Living At Its Best

127

long career. “That experience is one of the things that allowed me to adapt myself to other roles with other companies, from office operations and accounting to sales and manufacturing. Whereas most folks are just suited for one job within a company, I could fill many roles,” says Abarr. In the late sixties, after successfully fulfilling four different positions within the company, he was named general manager of North America Financial Operations for the Massey Ferguson Company. In 1973 he joined Branigar, a development company, and when Union Camp, its parent company, decided to move its headquarters to Savannah in 1978, Cecil was part of the move as senior vice president. Former Branigar president Richard Burke, who was also Abarr’s roommate for a time, says, “I’ve known Cecil for 41 years as a man of strong character; he’s one of the most decent, honest and warm people that you’ll ever meet. He’s quick to praise others while hesitant to accept praise for his own significant accomplishments. He’s a supporter, not a critic. In fact, although he was in the running for president of Branigar, when I was selected he was one of the first to congratulate me and offer his support. That’s the kind of man he is.”

After the move, Branigar was primarily focused on marketing the burgeoning Landings community, and Abarr was asked to be part of the advertising campaign.

Along with a small group, who included a fellow employee who would later become his wife, Abarr was photographed

128

chatham county living

in and around the marina to promote the community. “I was single at the time, and the photographer paired me with this lovely lady. That’s how I met Lou; we’d walk hand in hand on the beach or be filmed having a picnic,” he recalls. A year later the couple married, and over thirty years later they fondly recall their first encounter.

Apart from his vital role in the business community, Abarr and the board of Candler began work with the board of St. Joseph’s hospital in order to merge the two into St. Joseph’s/Candler. Guiding the companies through the highly complex process was a full-time effort for Abarr that took over a year. In the end, the process was a great success, saving the hospital $14 million dollars in its initial year. “We needed each other, and ours is probably the most successful merger in the country. Most mergers aren’t well-organized and tend to fail, while we’re still together,” Abarr beams proudly. Retired banker Archie Davis,

Apart from his vital role in the business community, Abarr and the board of Candler began work with the board of St. Joseph’s hospital in order to merge the two into St. Joseph’s/Candler.

Hometown Living At Its Best

129

Since retiring from Branigar, Abarr still has a hand in local business ventures, such as the development of the Henderson Golf community.

who was part of Abarr’s team concurs, adding, “Cecil was a great facilitator and was able to ask questions in a nonthreatening way, while still eliciting the responses that everyone needed to hear. He always had a smile on his face during the process and was a pleasure to work with.”

One constant in Cecil’s adult life, besides his faith and his love for people, is his dedication to an exercise regimen that involved running several miles a day.

Constantly on the road during his career, Abarr would take his running shoes with him and find time for a few miles a day. “I started running in Des Moines after leaving the army, where we also did a lot of running. I found that I wasn’t fast enough to beat everyone, but I could outlast anyone. Of course, this was when few folks ran for health reasons. In fact, the police and fellow neighbors would often stop me and ask if I needed help,” he says with a laugh. Although it’s been years since he’s laced up his running shoes, it’s apparent that Abarr’s persistence and dedication to his sport would be analogous to his business savvy, which served to fuel his ambition. “Every challenge I had turned into an adventure for me,” says Abarr. “I was never in a routine. It was a constant learning process.

And everywhere I went, I knew I was helping people. I

130

chatham county living

really want to try to help everyone I meet. Most people don’t look beyond what they’re doing. They’ll stay in a job until retirement, not really learning anything in the process. I’m just the opposite. I love the Lord, and I’ve depended on the Lord, and I try to teach the Lord’s ways without preaching it. If I’m with someone, I like to take care of them like the Lord would. That should be the way everyone operates.”

Since retiring from Branigar, Abarr still has a hand in local business ventures, such as the development of the Henderson Golf community. And every Friday Abarr can be found at Candler, where he generously gives his time as a volunteer. “I really enjoy my experience at the hospital,” says Cecil, adding, “but I try to talk to the children I see who come in there, to encourage them. I know what it means to have a father and then not have one, so I let them know they’re not alone.” Richard Burke says of his old friend, “Cecil is not an observer of life; he’s an active participant, always looking for a way to help others.” With his dedicated wife Lou by his side, Abarr chooses to live the retired life much like the rest of his life – selflessly giving his time to encourage, teach, and help everyone he meets.  CCL

VISIT OUR WALK-UP WINDOW

1102 BULL STREET | SAVANNAH, GA ALL ORGANIC PRODUCE AND NON GMO ORGANIC GROCERIES | SEASONAL FRUITS & VEGGIES, FINE CHEESES, DAIRY & MEATS

DELI

- Featuring the best organic ingredients!

Vegan • Vegetarian • Gluten Free Options

JUICE BAR

Freshly squeezed juices, delicious organic smoothies & rejuvenating tonics

BUY IN BULK

Herbs • Spices • Grains

FRIENDLY VITAMIN DEPARTMENT

Our well trained staff is ready to help with choices of herbs, teas and vitamin supplements from our large selection

912.236.4703 | WWW.BRIGHTERDAYFOODS.COM | SOUTH END OF FORSYTH PARK

SAVANNAH’S ONLY INDEPENDENT HISTORIC NATURAL FOODS MARKET!

Better together. +

+

SAVE = UP TO 20%

Protect more. Save more.

Everyone has different needs, and I can help you get the protection that’s right for you.

Plus, when you bundle coverage for your auto, home and boat, I can help you save up to 20%.Get the savings you deserve. Call me or stop by my office for a free quote.

Rountree & Brady Insurance Agency 912-356-3815

Subject to terms, conditions and availabiliy. Savings vary by state and produce line. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co., Allstate Insurance Co., Allstate Indemnity Co. © 2015 Allstate Insurance Co.

Hometown Living At Its Best

173997

5859 Abercorn St., Unit 1 Savannah

131

Photos By T. Howard Reimer Photography

Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau | 404 US-80, Pooler, GA 31322 | (912) 748-0110 | poolerchamber.com

Portraits of

Pooler

So excited to serve Pooler, GA with the freshest, most delicious coffee and espresso drinks as well as pastries and lunch items! - Abby Kruenegel, Owner – Front Porch Coffee House Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau | 404 US-80, Pooler, GA 31322 | (912) 748-0110 | poolerchamber.com

Galloway &

Galloway

A Professional Corporation Accidents • Bankruptcy • Custody • Divorce Real Estate • Corporations • Probate • Wills

GallowayLaw.com 842 US Highway 80 W, Pooler, GA 31322 | 912-748-9100

404 HIGHWAY 80 . POOLER, GA 31322 . (912) 748-0110 . WWW.POOLERCHAMBER.COM

Come to Pooler

p O

Bringing inancial inancial peace peace of of mind mind to to our our communities communities one one person person at at aa time. time.

Bringing

Delivering exceptional exceptional customer customer service service for for all all your your banking banking needs needs Delivering Marlene S. S. Buhler Buhler Marlene NMLS #757283 #757283 NMLS Vice President President Vice Mortgage Originator Originator Mortgage (912) 657-9700 657-9700 (912)

Sandra Burt Burt Sandra Branch Manager Manager Branch Godley Station Station Godley 140 Towne Towne Center Center Blvd Blvd 140 Pooler Pooler (912) 201-4918 201-4918 (912)

Whitney Ray Ray Whitney Branch Manager Manager Branch Downtown Pooler Pooler Downtown 501 West West Highway Highway 80 80 501 Pooler Pooler (912) 944-2621 944-2621 (912)

Kristi Dolan Dolan Kristi Business Banker Banker Business 140 Towne Towne Center Center Blvd Blvd 140 Pooler Pooler (912) 656-5586 656-5586 (912) (912) 644-1656 644-1656 (912)

Allloans loanssubject subjecttotocredit creditapproval approval All

“Treating the whole patient with love and care.”

• General Dentistry • Same Day Crowns • Cosmetic Dentistry • Sedation • Implants 1000 Towne Center Boulevard; Suite 505 | Pooler, GA 31322

J. Craig Brewer, PLS (912) 988-7723 Brewer

Ruby E. Barkley, DMD

Professional Land Surveyor • Residential & Commercial

wholetoothdentistry.com Serving Georgia & South Carolina LAND SURVEYING

912-856-2205 | craig@brewersurvey.com | www.brewersurvey.com | P.O. Box 441, Pooler, GA 31322 Hometown Living At Its Best Hometown Living At Its Best

129 135

404 HIGHWAY 80 . POOLER, GA 31322 . (912) 748-0110 . WWW.POOLERCHAMBER.COM

Come to Pooler

p O

“Treating whole Bringing inancial peace of mind to our communities the one person at apatient time. with love and care.”

• General Dentistry • Same Day Crowns • Cosmetic Dentistry • Sedation • Implants 1000 Towne Center Boulevard; Suite 505 | Pooler, GA 31322

Delivering exceptional customer service for all your banking needs

(912) 988-7723

Marlene S. Buhler NMLS #757283 Vice President Mortgage Originator (912) 657-9700

Sandra Burt Branch Manager Godley Station 140 Towne Center Blvd Pooler (912) 201-4918

wholetoothdentistry.com

COME SEE US FOR ALL OF YOUR FLOORING NEEDS!

Whitney Ray Branch Manager Downtown Pooler 501 West Highway 80 Pooler (912) 944-2621

Ruby E. Barkley, DMD

Kristi Dolan Business Banker 140 Towne Center Blvd Pooler (912) 656-5586 (912) 644-1656

All loans subject to credit approval

“Treating the whole patient with love and care.”

Now located on Highway 80, Next to Spanky’s!

• General Dentistry • Same Day Crowns • Cosmetic Dentistry • Sedation • Implants 1000 Towne Center Boulevard; Suite 505 | Pooler, GA 31322

(912) 988-7723

1215 East Highway 80 | Pooler, Georgia 31322

Ruby E. Barkley, DMD

wholetoothdentistry.com Your Savannah flooring experts since 1946

Open Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and by appointment 136

chatham county living

Office (912) 330-7213 • Fax (912) 330-7215 • SavannahFloorCovering.com Hometown Living At Its Best

129

SouthCoastHealth.com

It’s All About a Better Quality of Life.

From pediatrics to geriatrics, from sore throats to surgery, from well visits to urgent care, and everything in between, SouthCoast Health is your partner for a better quality of life.

SouthCoast Health coordinates your care across our comprehensive, integrated network. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Bluffton, Hilton Head and Hinesville, ensuring you get the right care at the right time.

Together, we’ll plan the best path to better wellness for you and your family.

PRIMARY CARE MULTI-SPECIALTY CARE

PEDIATRICS WOMEN'S HEALTH

To schedule an appointment, or for more information please call 912.691.3600

GOLDEN REALM ANTIQUES & JEWELRY

306 E BAY ST, SAVANNAH, GA 31401 | (912) 335-8623 Hometown Living At Its Best

137

138

chatham county living

Story By David Pena | Photos by Rebecca Galloway Photography

Mending

Memories

How one Savannah college professor used her passion for vintage books to help others discover a special place from their past.

Hometown Living At Its Best

139

“I love teaching freshmen because they’re really open to new ideas; they’re not yet cynical and jaded. In fact, they’re just ready for this new ‘ adventure’ called college,” { Betsy Hoit-Thetford }

If you’re a vintage book lover who’s looking for a unique shopping experience, then look no further than Books on Bay. Tucked away in a small building on West Bay Street in the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia, the shop has thousands of vintage books of all shapes, sizes and colors ranging from the 1600s to the late 1900s. Owner Betsy Hoit-Thetford emphasizes that her bookstore is truly like no other. “When people come to our bookstore, I want them to feel like they’re coming home to some part of who they were while growing up. I want them to feel the magic that they felt at some point in their lives. If we have done this right, you’ll feel as welcome here as any other place in the world,” she says. The shop’s extensive inventory of books includes both the traditional (Classics, Religious) and the whimsical (“As Seen on TV” books). All of the favorites are there, including Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, as well as Dorothy and Toto. The works are acquired primarily from estate sales, auctions, private collectors, as well as other dealers. To add to the atmosphere, a meticulously carved wooden giraffe named Reginald G. Raff greets you at the door, complete with name tag. His “family,” who also have their own name tags, are always available for assistance as well. “It’s something that adds to the whimsical feel of the shop. Many times when people think of vintage or rare books, they think that it’s going to be some place that’s really stuffy, snobby and super expensive.

Our shop, in fact, is just the opposite.”

It wasn’t always about vintage book selling with an amiable staff of giraffes, though. Dr. Hoit-Thetford actually began her career as a professor at Armstrong Atlantic University in

140

Chatham county living

the fall of 1991 as a part-time English instructor. Her courses include English composition as well as analysis composition, or writing about selected works of literature. Most of her students are freshmen, and Hoit-Thetford says she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I love teaching freshmen because they’re really open to new ideas; they’re not yet cynical and jaded. In fact, they’re just ready for this new ‘adventure’ called college,” she says. Hoit-Thetford has worked off and on at Armstrong through the years, sometimes venturing away to do other projects but always coming back. “At one point I felt that I had to prove something to people, so I went into corporate America and tackled different types of jobs before realizing I didn’t really need to prove anything to anybody. Then I came back to the classroom, which is where I belonged.”

One of her former students, Kip Livingston, fondly remembers his favorite English professor as a warm Hometown Living At Its Best

141

Whether she’s instructing college freshmen or helping people connect with their past through a rare work of literature, Hoit-Thetford is now living life on her own terms.

and accessible instructor. “I took some basic English courses in 2014 with ‘Dr. H.’ since I didn’t feel comfortable writing an essay at that point. By the time I was through the course, I could not only write essays, but I could make A’s on them,” he recounts.

“Some professors are stand-offish and cold, but Betsy was always helpful and supportive. I grew to love her and I consider her family now. She made going back to school at age 50 a fun experience.” After graduating, Livingston kept in touch with HoitThetford by stopping by her bookstore to catch up. “Her shop is as welcoming and warm as she is,” he says with a smile.

142

Chatham county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

143

“I wanted to share my love of books and reading and children’s literature and all the good memories.” { Betsy Hoit-Thetford }

Betsy’s foray into the vintage book selling business came about through a love affair with all things vintage that she shared with her husband. “When we first came to Savannah in 1990, Richard and I always loved puttering around, looking at antiques and shopping for old things but nothing too expensive. We got to know some of the antique dealers in town pretty well, and I just admired the fact that they were surrounded by things that had a history to them, so I wanted to be just like them,” she says.

Soon enough the professor began her stint as an antiques dealer, albeit parttime, selling her merchandise through someone else’s shop. “I did that for years and years until slowly I came to realize that I knew a lot about books, more than I thought I did. It really hit home when someone asked about the age of a book for sale, and I explained that you could tell its age by the rag content of the paper, or amount of cloth used to make up the pages. That’s why if you hold a very old book, the paper is very thick.” It was then that it occurred to Hoit-Thetford that what was common knowledge to her wasn’t exactly common knowledge to everybody. Thus, she ultimately started specializing in more and more books, until about ten years ago she decided that she really wanted her own shop. “I wanted to share my love of books and reading and children’s literature and all the good memories,” she says. “Then when a space came open in this building, I just jumped at the opportunity and we just 144

chatham county living

went from there.”

Proving that Reginald’s “family” is not the only kinsfolk who help with the day-to day operations of shop, Betsy’s husband Richard and son James have been integral in making Books on Bay a successful family affair. “Richard comes and helps out, mostly on weekends. His passion is flying, so that’s what he spends a good bit of his time doing,” she says.

As for Richard, he’s extremely pleased to help his wife fulfill her dream. “We all pitched in to make this happen. We only had four days between the signing of the lease and the opening date, which was July 4, 2008. It was quite an effort,” he says with a laugh. “Now she’s built up an extremely widespread customer base, with repeat customers coming as far away as from England, Canada and Australia.

I’m just happy to be part of it.” In addition to her husband, Betsy’s son, James, moved back five years ago to help out in the shop. James recalls, “I was living in Florida about five years ago but thinking about going to North Dakota to work in the oil fields since I heard the pay was good. I stopped by here and Mom told me she could use my help in the bookstore.

Well, the winters are kind of cold in North Dakota, so

here I am.” James says that working with his family has been mutually beneficial. “I loved reconnecting with my mother and father, and (working at the shop) gives me a chance to use my skills as a carpenter and designer. When we took over the additional space in February, I helped design the layout and built the shelving units over time,” he says with pride.

Whether she’s instructing college freshmen or helping people connect with their past through a rare work of literature, Hoit-Thetford is now living life on her own terms. “When I sell these vintage books, it’s very similar to my experience as a teacher; both involve helping people discover something in life. When people come in and see those books again, their faces light up and it’s almost like they’re reconnecting with part of who they are, a part they almost forgot was there. I call that ‘mending a memory.’ Authors pour out their hopes and dreams for all of us, so when we read their words, we’re right there with that author. And some of those books have literally reshaped us; I just love seeing that happen.”

Books on Bay is open daily at 10 am—including holidays—so you can stop by any day of the week.  CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

145

Blessingdales offers new clothing and products, gently used thrift clothing and item and antique furniture. Donations are always welcome and our inventory is always updating, so come on in and look around. You never know what treasures you may find.

6 TELEVISION CIR, SAVANNAH, GA 31406 | (912) 441-4870 Blessingdales is a branch of the Living Vine Maternity home and all proceeds from the store go to support the home.

Store Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm

146

chatham county living

Welcome To Our Family Marsh View is an elegantly furnished senior living community offering the finest in personal care services and accommodations, as well as Five Star’s award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery Alzheimer’s care program and rehabilitation services. Our community offers charming retirement living, rich in hospitality and friendship.

Personal Care Services Memory Care - Alzheimer’s / Dementia

7410 Skidaway Road Savannah, GA 31406 | (912) 354-6185

Hometown Living At Its Best

147

GODLEY STATION

Dentistry

2 n

At Godley Station

Dr. Tracy Durham & Dr. Gary Johnson 912.748.4494 | 145 Traders Way, Suite D in Pooler | www.tracydurhamdds.com

D

“Specializing in root canal therapy since 1986”

Frank E. Scarbrough | D.M.D., F.A.C.O.M.S. Michael C. Wilson | D.M.D., F.A.C.O.M.S.

W hen experience counts...

Dual Board Certified Surgeons with combined 33 years of experience specializing in: Dental Implants, Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Comprehensive TMJ Treatment, Laser Procedures, Oral Pathology, Bone Grafts / Reconstruction, Dental Extractions, Facial Trauma, Jaw Surgery, Sleep Apnea, General Anesthesia, I.V. Sedations 1 4 5 T r a d e r s Way

• Serving SavannahSfor 17 years • 3i, Nobel, and Zimmer implant systems consultants • Staff members at Memorial uite B University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Candler Hospital • Diplomates, American Board of P o ol e r , G A 3 1Surgery 3 2 2 • Fellows, AmericanAssociation of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Oral & Maxillofacial 912.998.0020

310 Eisenhower Dr, Bldg 1 Savannah Eisenhower Drive Medical REBECCA M. ASPINWALL, DMDCenter

145 Traders Way, Suite A Pooler Pooler Parkway / Godley Station

912-354-1515 DALE A. MILES, DMD DEREK V. MILES, DMD www.chathamoralsurgery.com

164 148

Chatham County Living chatham county living

912-748-4365

D

Creating smiles that last a lifetime.

GODLEY STATION

D

GODLEY STATION

“Specializing ininroot canal “Specializing root canal therapy therapysince since1986” 1986”

p O

Frank E. Scarbrough | D.M.D., F.A.C.O.M.S. Michael C. Wilson | D.M.D., F.A.C.O.M.S.

W hen experience counts...

Dual Board Certified Surgeons with combined 33 years of experience specializing in: Dental Implants, Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Comprehensive TMJ Treatment, Laser Procedures, Oral Pathology, Bone Grafts / Reconstruction, Dental Extractions, Facial Trauma, Jaw Surgery, Sleep Apnea, General Anesthesia, I.V. Sedations 1 4 5 T r a d e r s Way

1 4 5 T rfor ader s Way • Serving Savannah • 3i, Nobel, and Zimmer implant systems consultants • Staff members at Memorial S u i t17 e years B S u i t e B University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Candler Hospital • Diplomates, American Board of P o ol e r , G A 3 1 3 2 2 P o ol e r , G A 3 1Surgery 3 2 2 • Fellows, AmericanAssociation of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Oral & Maxillofacial

912.998.0020 912.998.0020

310 Eisenhower Dr, Bldg 1 Savannah

145 Traders Way, Suite A Pooler

Eisenhower Drive Medical Pooler Parkway / Godley Station REBECCA ASPINWALL, DMD REBECCAM. M. ASPINWALL, DMDCenter 912-354-1515 912-748-4365 DALE DALEA. A.MILES, MILES,DMD DMD DEREK DEREKV.V.MILES, MILES,DMD DMD www.chathamoralsurgery.com DONIHUE WATERS, DDS, MDS | www.drwatersbraces.com

DONIHUE WATERS, DDS, MDS | www.drwatersbraces.com DONIHUE WATERS, DDS, MDS

COMMITTED TO PROVIDING FRIENDLY AND HIGHLY SKILLED ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR ALL AGES!

www.drwatersbraces.com Rincon Savannah DONIHUE WATERS, DDS,COMMITTED Pooler MDS | www.drwatersbraces.com TO PROVIDING FRIENDLY AND HIGHLY 613 Towne Park West Dr. Suite 201 9100 White Bluff Rd. Suite 104 145 Traders Way Suite C SKILLED Savannah Rincon ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR ALL AGES! Pooler 912.826.2501 912.354.3474 912.748.5041 9100 White Bluff Rd., Suite 104 613 Towne Park West Dr. Ste 201 145 Traders Way, Suite C 912.354.3474

COMMITTED TO PROVIDING FRIENDLY AND HIGHLY SKILLED ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR ALL AGES!

150

chatham county living

Savannah 9100 White Bluff Rd. Suite 104 912.354.3474

Rincon 613 Towne Park West Dr. Suite 201 912.826.2501

912.826.2501 912.748.5041 Savannah Rincon Pooler 9100 White Bluff Rd. Suite 104 613 Towne Park West Dr. Suite 201 145 Traders Way Suite C At Its Best 912.354.3474 912.826.2501 Hometown Living 912.748.5041

Pooler 145 Traders Way Suite C 912.748.5041

Hometown Living At Its Best

165 149

THE

girls

Derby

STORY BY |David Pena | PHOTOS BY |Casey Jones

No longer considered “pro wrestling on wheels,� roller derby continues its quest to become legitimate.

150

chatham county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

151

I

It’s fairly common to have a bit of trepidation when approaching your first roller derby experience. There’s an understandable yet unhealthy cynicism toward the ability of high-level athletic competition that initially started (or restarted) at the grass roots level. However, it doesn’t take long for first-time attendees to become devoted fans of the sport, despite their initial misgivings.

It also doesn’t take an intensive analysis of roller derby to understand its appeal, because it’s love at first bout -a sport you either get or you don’t.

They come from all walks of life – teachers, librarians, stay-at-home moms, nurses, and even soonto-be ordained ministers. Collectively, however, they are known as the Savannah Derby Devils, a Division 3 women-only roller derby team. Originally formed in January 2006 during the international re-emergence of roller derby and led by Heather Hamilton Watson, aka Ms. DFiant, a small group of women began meeting regularly at Star Castle on Mall Boulevard with the hopes of possibly forming a league. Most of the women hadn’t skated since they were kids, and none of them had ever seen live roller derby before. Nevertheless, this small but tenacious group of women would meet

152

chatham county living

A NEW GENERATION OF DERBY GIRLS “It’s definitely not your grandmother’s (version of ) roller derby,”

regularly and soon had their first bout in 2007 at Lake Mayer, which was also a secondary practice facility for them. Since then the league continued to grow, holding annual “boot camps” to attract and initiate new players to the league. It was at the 2010 version, which drew about 100 women, a record number of attendees at the time, that the Devils’ head coach Patty Leon came to be part of this ever-evolving sport.

“It’s definitely not your grandmother’s (version of) roller derby,” says Leon, whose derby name is Eada Chiquita. “These women are real athletes, and our sport has evolved into a very competitive one with strict guidelines on how to conduct yourself while playing.

It’s not like pro wrestling anymore.” She is, of course, referring to derby’s earlier existence, which started around the mid-1930s.

At that time roller derby featured teams of professional skaters, including both men and women, whose races along a banked track were often infused with pratfalls and punches. Participants also

Hometown Living At Its Best

153

took stage names and wore miniskirts and fishnet stockings, adding a campy sexuality to the violent theatrics. The sport had all but petered out by the early 1970s until about eight years ago, when roller derby resurfaced in Texas as an amateur, women-only game. This newest incarnation played not on the expensive banked tracks of old but on flat surfaces, where a track could be laid out with little more than a roll of tape.

While the rules of the game have evolved to make it more competitive and less reliant upon the theatrics of old, the fundamentals of the sport have remained virtually unchanged in its seventy-odd-year history. Reduced to its basics, roller derby is fairly easy to understand.

There are two 30-minute halves, during which each team fields five women at a time in shifts, or jams that can last up to two minutes. They skate counterclockwise around an oval track, which is slightly smaller than a basketball court. There’s one “jammer� per shift, who scores a point each time she laps an opposing skater. After her first, nonscoring pass through the opposing team, the leading jammer also has the strategic option of ending the jam prematurely by tapping her hands to her hips.

The other eight players skate in a pack and use their hips and arms to clear space for their jammer and work against her opposition. Each opposing player they pass legally is worth one point, including the opposing jammer. When the lead jammer calls off the jam or when the

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT While the rules of the game have evolved to make it more competitive and less reliant upon the theatrics of old, the fundamentals of the sport have remained virtually unchanged in its seventy-odd-year history.

154 chatham county living

maximum time of two minutes have passed, the jam stops and the officials calculate the scores.

However, jammers do not get points for passes in which they commit a penalty; the most common penalties include back blocking, skating out of bounds, elbowing aka “chicken-winging,” tripping and “clothes-lining.” Infractions result in a penalty only they impact game play, and penalties can result in a skater spending some time in the penalty box.

What many casual observers of the sport and even some of its most ardent fans don’t realize is that the Derby Devils’ league, like most leagues, is a 501c3 non-profit organization, which means that none of the players make any money from the games, fund raisers, or merchandise sales.

Instead, all proceeds made during these events is put back into the league to pay for practice space, equipment, and travel expenses. Leon notes, “Everything is done by the skater, for the skater, and every league in the country is run the same way.” To that end, each player is required to pay monthly dues in order to skate for the league, Hometown Living At Its Best

155

and all members are expected to pitch in when it comes to planning events, fund raising, marketing and training. Much like the skaters, all of the support staff volunteer their time for the love of the sport, which includes referees, coaches, trainers as well as medics.

Additionally, the league offers beginner training and recreational derby through its wRECk League, and although there are no paid positions, it still finds ways to give back to the community. Leon continues, “Every time we have a bout, we pick a charity and have a raffle for them. Whether it be for a rape/crisis center, the Humane Society, Girls on the Run or whoever, we make sure they benefit from our bouts. It’s our way of supporting a community that supports us.”

Seemingly undeterred by lack of financial gain, the ladies stipulate that roller derby is a sport that gives back in other ways. “It’s strangely like the Girl Scouts with the teamwork and camaraderie,” says Suzanne Nelson, whose derby name is Goldiknocks. “We also like to hang out with each other. I’ve found a real sisterhood here with people I wouldn’t ordinarily get a chance to meet outside of the sport.” Kelly Steele, aka Spyro, concurs, saying, “I moved here from North Carolina in June, and I found (roller derby) on Facebook in July. I thought it would be a great way to meet friends.” Steele, who is in her first year on the Devils, also happens to be an Episcopal clergywoman, thus earning her the distinction of being an “Angel among the Devils.” “I find a sense of acceptance here

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

156

chatham county living

and an alternate community in Savannah that’s really embedded in the life of the city. I’m into smashing stereotypes, so my role as a roller derby girl and pastor can hopefully change mindsets to everyone who knows me in both areas of my life,” she says. Some of the skaters find it cathartic as well, noting that the dayto-day rigors and frustrations of life can be assuaged with one swing of an elbow. Bobbi Krompak aka Dirty Martina adds, “Being a mom, it allows me to have my ‘me time.’ I can come here and not have to think about all I have to do (outside of derby). Plus I get to hit people; it’s wonderful! It’s a lot of helping and supporting each other while beating each other up.”

In her first full season as head coach, Leon admits that there’s still some work to do, as far as changing public perception of the sport. “We still have to educate some of the people that attend our bouts who still expect the old, physical style of playing with the elbows and clotheslining. That (style of play) is actually illegal,” Leon emphasizes. However, this is not to say that the physicality is completely gone from the sport, or that the hits are not real, as she is quick to point out. “Some players still try to get away with stuff.

In fact, in the last three years we’ve had four broken ankles, a broken nose, and I currently have a separated shoulder, which is why I’m not competing at the moment. The injuries are very real.” And of course, the stage names are still integral. With names like Eenie Meanie, Eva-Villian, Hello Kidney and Private Hell,

“When we first started, we were at a different level than we are now. We have double the amount of girls we had at the beginning, and it has grown more statewide”

there’s no shortage of monikers to remember or alter-egos to go around, but the athleticism is what matters most. “Roller derby is the most all-inclusive sport I’ve ever seen,” remarks Leon. “It takes all body types and styles to make a team successful.

Someone who’s 6’3” and strong can help me as a blocker, but someone shorter with more agility can be a great jammer, so it takes all kinds to fill this sport.”

Currently in their second year as a full member of the Woman’s Flat-Track Derby Association, the Derby Devils have a definitive goal this year: to climb up the WFTDA ranks. Last year marked their first legitimate ranking, but now with more than forty skaters to choose from, it’s time to seriously compete. “When we first started, we were at a different level than we are now. We have double the amount of girls we had at the beginning, and it has grown more statewide,” states Angela Huber, fittingly nicknamed “Private Hell” due to her stint in the armed forces and who is the only original member of the Devils still on the team.

On March 12, the Derby Devils began their tenth season against the Gainesville Roller Rebels at the Savannah Civic Center. As a women’s flat-track roller derby league member, The Devils compete against women’s leagues throughout the U.S.

Coach Patty Leon proudly proclaims, “As a nationally ranked team, we are excited about hosting our first two-day home tournament on June 18-19th, appropriately titled the Savannah Summer Slam. The visiting teams will include The Rogue Roller Girls, Miami Vice City Rollers, Gainesville Roller Rebels, Tallahassee Roller Girls and Jacksonville’s River City Rat Pack.” The growth of the Savannah team, which boasts a roster that has more than doubled since its inception, is reflective of the sport itself, and perceptions about roller derby are beginning to change. Today more than 15,000 skaters compete in more than 300 flat-track leagues — the bulk of them in the United States but some as far off as Australia. “Since last year, the WFTDA has partnered with ESPN 3 to televise championship bouts, which was virtually unheard of before,” notes Leon, proving that in its 70-odd-year history, roller derby has been many things, but never until perhaps now has it been a legitimate sport.

Ironically, though, it’s the athletes themselves who continue to be its biggest fans, its primary supporters and its biggest defenders -- fighting against the ugly stigma, at least in the minds of some observers, that still relegates roller derby to the realm of frivolity, rather than what it has become - true athletic competition. CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

157

Because pets are important members of our family.

p O

Dignified pet loss services from a name Savannah has trusted for 130 years.

Dignified pet loss services from a name Savannah has trusted for over 130 years.

Because pets are important members of our family.

HOME REMOVAL PRIVATE CREMATION

HOME REMOVAL PRIVATE CREMATION

FoxandWeeks.com/pets-at-peace 912.352.7200 912.352.7200 FoxandWeeks.com Find us on Facebook

CALL US ABOUT OUR SNORING AND NON-CPAP SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT. ONE MALL TERRACE SAVANNAH GA 31406 | T 912.352.7808 F 912.352.7807 WWW.SAVANNAH-DENTIST.COM

158

chatham county living

MATTHEW S. ROSENTHAL, DMD

ONE MALL TERRACE SAVANNAH GA 31406 T 912.352.7808 F 912.352.7807

Hometown Living At Its Best

153

2 n • Immunization & Preventative Care • Laparoscopy • Laser Surgery • Therapeutic Laser & Rehabilitation • Pain Management • Acupuncture • Geriatric Medicine • Radiology • Dental Care • Ultrasound • Surgery • Nutritional Counseling • Microchipping • Boarding • Bathing • Grooming Case Veterinary Hospital is a proud sponsor of Willow, Ronald McDonald House’s Fun Development Manager

CaseCare Our preventative health care payment plans are designed to budget for all stages of your pet’s life, which includes exams, vaccinations, parasite screening and diagnostic screening.

Monday & Wednesday: 8AM - 8PM | Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 8AM - 6PM Saturdays: 8AM - 1PM 111 Eisenhower Drive • Savannah, GA 31406 www.casevet.com • email: info@casevet.com • 912-352-3081 140

Chatham County Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

159

We are middle Georgia’s premier retreat and conference center!

The center is available all year round for: • Retreats • Conferences • Meetings

• Low ropes leadership program GOLD.

281 Hope Entrance Rd, Fort Valley, GA 31030 | (478) 967-2302 | www.campjohnhope.com

160

chatham county living

ONE MALL TERRACE SAVANNAH GA 31406 | T 912.352.7808 F 912.352.7807 WWW.SAVANNAH-DENTIST.COM

MATTHEW S. ROSENTHAL, DMD

Your One Stop Endurance Sports Shop

ONE MALL TERRACE SAVANNAH GA 31406 T 912.352.7808 F 912.352.7807 WWW.SAVANNAH-DENTIST.COM

Where

endurance Where sports endurance Your One Stop Endurance Sports Shop issports

Your One Stop Endurance Sports Shop

Where

154

p O

not is endurance just anot Your One Stop just a business, Endurance Sports Shop sports WHAT’S business, orYOUR aor a STORY? passion, VIDEOGRAPHY . PHOTOGRAPHY . GRAPHIC DESIGN passion, is Chatham County Living but but not

a a just lifestyle. lifestyle.

a business, or a passion, but

a lifestyle.

Where

607 Brannen St. Suite 1 Statesboro, GA 30458

endurance sports is

607 Brannen St. Suite 1 Statesboro, GA 30458

912.681.2453

not just a business, 912.681.2453 607 Brannen St. Suite 1 GA 30458 lifestyle. or a passion, but aStatesboro, Swim Bike Run.indd 1

912.681.2453

Hometown Hometown Living Living At At Its Its Best Best Swim Bike Run.indd 1

155 161

7/11/2015 11:41:48 AM

912-704-7803 MJONAHB@YAHOO.COM FACEBOOK.COM/MTWPHOTOBYBEANNA.RENDON

U.C.S. Lawn & Landscaping We are here to take care of all you lawn and landscaping needs.

We want to be the company that you would send to your grandma’s house.

U.C.S. Carpet & Restoration

Get ready for spring.

(912) 421-9827

www.ucshelps.com | info@ucshelps.com

Locally owned and operated with over 25 years combined experience

162

chatham county living

We clean it ALL. Repair just about anything.

When you call us you get tradesmen, now that’s the U.C.S. difference.

24/7 Emergency Support

(912) 421-9827

Want to see your business represented in our next issue?

Xpressions and Designs Interior Design Consulting

Does your home need a face lift?

I can help personalize and customize your space.

Furniture placement - Paint color - Wallpaper Custom Blinds - Window treatment

Contact me for your advertising needs.

CHATHAM COUNTY

Call today for an appointment

Living

Bonnie Boyette 912-659-1670

Tiffanie Livingston 912-429-8060 tiffanie.wyim@gmail.com

bonnieboyette1@gmail.com

Overwhelmed by the thought of downsizing or moving?

Let us help!

Whether it’s a move to a smaller residence, retirement community, assisted living or skilled nursing facility, we are here to assist older adults and their families.

WANT TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS REPRESENTED IN OUR NEXT ISSUE? Contact me for your advertising needs.

Whether moving locally or out-of-state, we coordinate and implement your move, handling ALL details from start to finish.

CHATHAM COUNTY

Living

SCOTT BERGMANN | 912-257-8243 L.bergmann839@comcast.net

www.newdimensionsrelo.com

912-777-9693

Get your move started with a FREE Quote! Call us today!

Hometown Living At Its Best

163

Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look

why we love Chatham County.

at a few more reasons

photo by

164

Rebecca Galloway

Chatham County Living

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

photo by

Jessica Stewart

photo by

Jessica Stewart

Hometown Living at Its Best

165

photo by

Jessica Stewart

photo by

photo by

166

More Than Words Photography

Chatham County Living

Rebecca Galloway

photo by

More Than Words Photography

Hometown Living at Its Best

167

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

photo by

photo by

photo by

photo by

168

Dream Weaver Photography

Chatham County Living

Dream Weaver Photography

Julie Braly Painting With Light Photography

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

Hometown Living at Its Best

169

photo by

Rebecca Galloway

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

170

Chatham County Living

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

Hometown Living at Its Best

171

photo by

172

Ryan Lee Photography

Chatham County Living

photo by

Dream Weaver Photography

Hometown Living at Its Best

173

We’ll Come to Your Doorstep We hear it all the time. Readers don’t want to miss an exciting issue of Chatham County Living. Now you can make sure a copy is delivered right to your home, so you’ll never miss a story.

We are thrilled to announce that we are GROWING! Look for THREE issues this year...

Like us on Facebook!

Detach and return bottom portion with payment to PO Box 55, Glennville, GA 30427

o Yes, I want a 1 year subscription to Chatham County Living, that's 3 issues for $21.00 Begin my subscription with o September 2017 Issue

Name________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________State____________________________Zip_________________________ Phone_______________________________________________________________________________________ Email________________________________________________________________________________________ Send to (if different): Name________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________State____________________________Zip_________________________ Payment o I am enclosing Cash, Check or Money Order Amount submitted______________ o Please charge my: [ ] Visa

[ ] MasterCard

[ ] AMEX

Credit Card #____________________________________Exp._________________ Card CCV Code__________ Billing Address, City, State, Zip___________________________________________________________________ Name on card________________________________________________________________________________

To learn more about advertising options for any budget, give us a call at 912-654-3045 or email jay@wyimpublications.com

chatham county

..

Index of Advertisers

Alligator Soul ………............................................………. 18-19 Allstate - Rountree & Brady Insurance Agency ……....……. 131 Ameris Bank ………………................................................. 135 Blessingdales …..............................................……………. 146 Brewer Land Surveying ………................................………. 135 Brighter Day Natural Foods Market ……..............…………. 131 Camp John Hope ………..........................................………. 160 Camping World RV Sales ……..............................…………. 109 Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours ...…...................................... 80 Case Veterinary Hospital ………..............................………. 146 Chatham County Living Subscription ……............…………. 174 Chatham Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, P.C. …..…..………. 148 City Market ……………..................................................…. 159 Coastal ENT Hearing Center ……………..........................…. 6-7 Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery ………….................……. 16-17 Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners ……............……………. 59 Comfort Suites ………….............................................……. 122 Counter Fitters Custom Countertops ………........………. 28-29 Country Financial ……….....................................………. 42-43 David M. Kessler Fine Art ……..............................…………. 110 Dental Designs of Savannah ……………..........................…. 94 Dentistry at Godley Station …..........................……………. 148 DoubleTree by Hilton ……....................................…………. 108 Duffy & Feemster, LLC ………..............................………. 40-41 Endodontic Associates of Savannah ......………………. 27, 149 Enmarket ......................................................................….. 68 ENT Associates of Savannah, PC ……………....................…. 95 Galloway & Galloway A Professional Corporation ….….…. 134 Galloway & Galloway, PC Attorneys at Law . Inside Front Cover GeorgiaGameChangers Running Company …….…………. 120 Georgia MOHS & Skin Cancer Center ……………..........…. 160 Godley Station …….....................................…………. 148-149 Golden Realm ……..............................................…………. 137 Habersham House Assisted Living & Memory Care ............ 69 Harkleroad Diamonds and Fine Jewelry ………………......…. 58 Hawk’s Point Golf Club …………..........................………. 56-57 Hospice Savannah ........................................................….. 79 Innovative Orthodontics ...…....................................... 71, 149 Institute for Personalized Medicine …...........…….. Back Cover Live Oak Children’s Therapy …………............................……. 97 Logic4Design ……...............................................…………. 161

Marche De Macarons ...…................................................ 83 Marsh View Senior Living …………...........................……. 147 Memorial Health …...................……… 96, Inside Back Cover More Than Words Photography by Beanna Rendon ……. 162 Nephrology & Hypertension Medical Associates ……. 30-31 New Dimensions Relocation Services ………………......... 163 Paul Anderson Youth Home ………….......................……. 123 Pets At Peace ……............................................…………. 158 Planters Inn on Reynolds Square ……...........…………. 44-45 Pooler Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau .. 132-133 Portraits of Pooler ………….............................…………… 133 Quick RX Drugs ...........................................................….. 82 Rebecca Galloway Photography ………................………. 159 Rosenthal Dental Group ……………............................…. 158 RPM Autoworx ...…........................................................... 67 Ryan Lee Photography …………...............................……. 111 Savannah Commons ……...................................…………. 93 Savannah Floor Covering Co., Inc. …….............…………. 136 Savannah Pain Management ....................………………. 107 Savannah Rum Runners Bakery & Cafe …….…………. 54-55 Savannah Square ………..........................................………. 1 Scott Bergmann …........................................……………. 163 SouthCoast Health ……....................................…………. 137 State Farm - Bill Richard, Agent ..................................….. 81 State Farm - Bob Ward, Agent ....................................….. 81 State Farm - Clay Clark, Agent ...…................................... 81 State Farm - Erica Herndon Timmons, Agent ...…............. 81 Swim Bike Run Bikeshop and Multisport …………...……. 161 The Center for Digestive & Liver Health ………….......……. 2-3 The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa ...…........ 70 The Whole Tooth General Dentistry ……............…………. 136 Tiffanie Livingston …….....................................…………. 163 Travis Sawyer, Realtor - Parker Scott Properties ….………. 92 Unforgetable Bakery & Café ……………......................…. 106 United Commercial Services Carpet & Restoration ……. 162 United Commercial Services Lawn & Landscaping ….... 162 United Community Bank …………................................……. 9 Visit Pooler ……........................................…………. 132-136 Xpressions and Designs Interior Design Consulting ……. 163 Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control ………………............. 147 Zaxby’s ………......................................................………. 121

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

176

chatham county living

Helping residents of Chatham, Effingham, Bulloch, Bryan & Liberty with their legal needs for over 30 years!

Southeast Georgia’s Only Level I Trauma Center

Galloway & Galloway, PC A T T O R N E Y S

A T

L A W

R. Brandon Galloway • Robert W. Galloway

Experience

Personal Injury • Family Law • Real Estate • Bankruptcy Criminal • Wills and Probate • Corporations and Contracts

Quality Care.

Inside this building, lives change every day. Last year alone, 3,501 people were rushed here with injuries so extreme, they required the region’s only Level 1 trauma center. Within these walls, surgeons, nurses, and emergency professionals provide lifesaving care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In fact, this facility’s trauma care was ranked among the Top 100 in the Nation for Patient Safety by CareChex®.* We hope you never need our trauma center. But if you do, we’re always here.

Experience Excellence. Memorial Health.

memorialhealth.com *

CareChex—an information service of Quantros, Inc.

May 2017

Mary Kay Ross MD and Functional Medicine A Health Plan That Works.

Savannah’s only medical practice dedicated solely to the practice of Functional/Integrative Medicine.

chatham county

scenes Take a look at a few more of the reasons we think Chatham County is a great place to live.

Band of Brothers

Local Bible study group strives to change men’s lives one soul at a time.

Turnbridge Plantation

Dr. Richard Schulze, Jr. continues the family tradition with the preservation of Turnbridge Plantation.

Possibilities Unlimited How one nonprofit organization helps its clients to achieve the unachievable by focusing on the ability, not the disability.

Healing Begins Here™

912.352.1234 • 3 JOHNSTON STREET, SUITE A • IPMSAVANNAH.COM

H o m e t o w n L i v i n g at i t s B e s t