Chatham County Living Magazine - Fall 2018 by With You In Mind Publications

fall 2018

THREE CAMPUSES. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

chatham county

GEORGIA’S LARGEST UNIVERSITY SOUTH OF ATLANTA.

Chasing Her Dream

Venezuelan artist proves that it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

Living Life to the Fullest

Lt. Col. Dwyer remains ready to take on life’s challenges, with the emphasis on able.

Helping adults with disabilities to become successful, productive workers in the Coastal Empire for nearly seventy years.

STATESBORO • SAVANNAH • HINESVILLE • ONLINE

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

The Simple Life Wyll Dykstra finds himself most at home in his Savannah wood-working shop.

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

BEGINNINGS MATTER “You can accomplish any goal if you take one step at a time.” Cristy Llewellyn Lawrence Director, City of Savannah Capital Projects Management St. Andrew’s Class of ‘91

Age 3 - Grade 12 International Baccalaureate World School

601 Penn Waller Rd, Savannah, GA 31410 | (912) 897-4941 | www.saslions.com

a great place

to live, work and play

100 US HW 80, Pooler, GA 31322 (912) 748-7261 | www.pooler-ga.gov

Specializing In Prevention, Detection & Management Of Digestive Diseases Welcome Dr. Madeline R. Russell! Now accepting new patients within the Hardeeville, Bluffton and Beaufort, SC communities. We Are Expanding To Hardeeville Our team of board-certified gastroenterologists perform the latest diagnostic testing in gastroenterology, including colonoscopies, endoscopic ultrasounds and flexible sigmoidoscopy. We employ modern techniques to treat many conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, GERD, hemorrhoids, constipation and hepatitis.

Savannah Office: 1139 Lexington Ave. | Savannah, GA 31404 | 912-303-4200 | Pooler Office: 140 Traders Way | Pooler GA 31322 Hardeeville - Satellite Office | 1010 Medical Center Drive, Suite 100 | Hardeeville, SC 29927 | (843) 591-1390 | www.savannahgi.com The Board-Certified Gastroenterologists of CDLH: George C. Aragon, MD; Steven Carpenter, MD; Rodney S. Cohen, MD; Charles W. Duckworth, MD; Mark E. Murphy, MD; Mark R. Nyce, MD; Edward Rydzak, MD; Brent W. Acker, MD; Ryan C. Wanamaker, MD 2

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Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham County living

contents 10

Chasing her Dream

Venezuelan artist proves that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too late to pursue your passion.

The Sweet Taste of Success

The story of how two tenacious women turned a last-minute party idea into March De Macarons.

Living Life to the Fullest

Lt. Col. Dwyer remains ready, willing and able to take on the challenges of his command and personal and family life, with the emphasis on able.

Young Hero

Savannah Cub Scout, Hadden Dart earned a national award for helping to save a strangerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life.

Discover Something New

Sanders Gifts and Home Accents is where Southern charm meets modern style.

chatham county living

40 About the Cover Featured on the cover is Courtney Rawlins. The photo was taken by Ryan Lee Photography. Turn to page 90 to read about how EmployAbility is helping adults with disabilities.

Wilde About Music

For aspiring artists in the Savannah area, Julie Rose Wilde has been an ever-present force in the world of vocal and piano instruction for over two decades.

EmployAbility

Local non-profit organization has been helping adults with disabilities to become successful, productive workers in the Coastal Empire for nearly seventy years.

102

The Simple Life

Wyll Dykstra has sailed the Pacific and ridden across the country, but finds himself most at home in his Savannah wood-working shop.

118

156

118

Friendship Coffee

Today, Friendship Coffee Company continues to specialize in hot and cold beverages, breakfast and lunch food and other delicious desserts.

132

A Hero’s Tale

A World War II veteran reflects on his illustrious military career and one harrowing adventure that nearly ended his life.

142

Time to Shine

The Savannah Children’s Theatre delights young and old with performances all year long.

156

Lasting Legacy

Southern Belle, Evelyn Bartlett, at age 92, is a gracious lady with a sharp mind, quick wit and a melodious laugh and understands the greatest gift of all is family and love.

170

The Pride of Savannah

Crispy fritters, chewy cookies, delicious donuts and cakes have all made Baker’s Pride a popular stop in Savannah for more than three decades.

102

114 BARNARD ST | SAVANNAH, GA 31401 | (912) 232-7899

RESTAURANT AWARDS 1995 TO PRESENT • Alligator Soul began in Everett Washington and was rated as the best restaurant outside Seattle, in Puget Sound, According to The Seattle Times, The Seattle Post Intelligencer, Seattle Magazine, and Norwest Best Places to Eat.

COME…EAT, DRINK AND RELAX YOUR SOUL!

• The second of the trio opened in Seattle, and was rated one of the top ten restaurants in Seattle by both The Seattle times and The Seattle Post Intelligencer. Alligator Soul was the only restaurant that year to win top honors by both respected Newspaper Food Critics. • The third of the trio was given the honor of hosting the “American Academy Of Chefs” dinner. • Savannah Magazine Best Fine Dining • Savannah Magazine 2nd place Best Fine Dining • Savannah Magazine Best Fine Dining (again) • Food and Wine with Open Table named Alligator Soul One of the Top Fifty Southern Restaurants in the United States • USA Today Alligator Soul one of the Best Ten Restaurants in Savannah • Zagats consistently rated 4.6 out of 5 for food, ambiance and service • Open Table consistently rated 4.6 out of 5 for food, service, wine list

From the Publisher

FFrr o hee PPuubblli s i shhe err om m tt h

Chatham County

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P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications

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P u b l i s h e r With You in mind Publications

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Each time we are preparing to write the Publisher’s Letter, it is so While anan evening hunt week, i was at my fun and on such honor family to review thelast articles that arestanding going to be in While savoring a cup one morning, i senttoour pick-up spot on the road in of thecoffee dark waiting for my husband come. i each issue. We don’t have a theme for any of our publications other had set down my stuff and was quotes looking at bright full moon admiring daughters some awesome onagratitude. According to than “people, placesilluminated and thingsthe thatsky. make Chatham County great the glow that softly A few minutes later,ai saw some of the thingsthe i have on thismy subject, headlights rounding curveread and headed way. As gratitude soon as thecan place to live!” corner turn was made, i was amazed by what i saw. the headlights haveInareviewing profound like decrease in physical theeffect articleson forus. this things issue, I noticed several instances shown on three of the most intricately woven spider webs next to me pain, sleepwas quality, improved whereincreased the word “hero” stated increased or implied. I optimism, decided to look up that i had previously missed in the dark. it caught my attention because the definition of hero: a person who is admired for their courage, they were so huge and the details less on them lookedand likethe an exquisite hand relationships, less self-focus, self-pity increased sewn lace pattern. All threeor looked different, yet eachDictionary). was so unique. outstanding achievements noble qualities (Oxford ability to see all of the incredible beauty and blessings right in i stood there amazed that in the dark, i had missed these incredible As I reviewed various definitions, it appears that it totally depends front of us andasevery day. displays. Yet,each as soon the light was shed on them, they became a on whoart is show. doing the defining! What is my point? My is this-- spoke visible immediately the clear message of point dark and in pondering these thoughts, i was reminded of mylight initial every day wesometimes have the opportunity to be someone’s “HERO”. to my heart. in the darkness, we may feel we areSome alone and phone with tiffani she exuded there is visit nothing around us,taylor. especially when basinggratefulness our feelings onwith our examples: senses. however, when God’s light shines through, he illuminates what every word. her article made weepfriend, with her genuine A word of encouragement fromme a parent, teacher, coach, was there all along in his provisions and his love surrounding us. there boss a clerkand thatgratitude impacts someone’s self-worth. authenticity toillustration family, friends and the world shein are noorgreater examples of this than in some of the stories this issue. A warning instead of a ticket… (my personal favorite). is blessed to be a part of! Babs hall and mrs. Juanita nixon are prime examples of lights in our the A sincere “I love you!” from a spouse or parent. articles this issue of Chatham County community. Bothrepresented of these ladiesinlove with open arms and hearts. Giving “Haveisyou lostyou some weight, youabout look great!!!” back to people what will also read in Dr. Charity Wilson’s Living reflect people with that same heart; grateful for what “I love that new outfit!” story as she displays her gifts of service in helping her patients above they can contribute to the people around them. in a world and beyond. “That is the best meal that I’ve had in a long time!” People helping people is what discouragement, Albany does and wedismay, have seenhatred, that full that reflect of headlines “Nice Job!!” time and time again through every story we are so honored to share. distrust, itperson isnone with that we with you youand canisanger, see, the that defines “hero” true the As message clear that ofgreat us areJOY alone as provides Godshare usesa his people to help shed the light in this amazing city. definition. I believe that“rays life-saving actions heroic! But, those some of Chatham’s of light andare love!” As always, we are so appreciative of the continued ofword our people that bring joy and sunshine into someone’s lifesupport by athe kind Enjoy thiswho issue and please remember to thank advertisers so graciously make this magazine available to you at or charge! action are equally heroic! no Your complimentary available at each their “Amazing Advertisers” listedcopies in theare back who are theofreason Please thank heroes on page 184 for allowing us to produce businesses listed the on page 176. this publication freefamily to all! Wishing you andisyour a verY merrY ChristmAs and a this magazine. hAPPY neW YeAr!

God Bless! Psalm 91

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Tradition never goes out of style.

David Paddison, CPCU Sterling Seacrest Partners, Inc, President Jacket: Hardwick. Trousers: Coppley. Pocket Square: Robert Talbott. Belt : Martin Dingman.

20 West Broughton St. | 5500 Abercorn St., 12 Oaks Shopping Center | jparkerltd.com

Chatham county Living

Story by David Pena Photos by Dream Weaver Photos

Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham county Living

Eleven years ago when Maria Fernanda Lairet first visited her daughter, who was then living in Savannah, she was immediately struck by the city's “magical,” intoxicating beauty. “It was like an old, familiar film that touched my soul or like a book that completely changed the way I see things,” she recalls. “Savannah offered me an adventure that was just ready to begin.” There was one other aspect about the city that caught her eye, though. “The Savannah College of Art and Design really impressed me, and I thought that I would like to study in that spectacular university.” Little did she know that it would only be a matter of time before that goal was realized. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Maria obtained her degree in Graphic Design at the Design Institute of Caracas in 1987. Throughout her long and successful career that has spanned over two decades, Lairet has experimented and combined elements of graphic design, drawing, photography and painting to create exciting mixed media works. She has participated in solo and group exhibitions in universities, museums, galleries, biennials, fairs and exhibitions both in Venezuela and abroad. More recently, Lairet's work “Empowering Humanity” has been one of the winning proposals among more than 150 artists from member countries for the Inter-American Development Bank in Argentina and Washington, D.C.; her proposal seeks to interpret a major part

And after twenty-five years in her particular artistic medium, Maria says she now has hopes of opening a new studio in Savannah. “I had a studio back in Caracas, where I taught yoga and meditation classes to students both young and old. I really hope to continue teaching art, yoga and meditation here in Savannah while representing Latin American artists like myself. I truly want to reach the hearts of the people in this magical city that I now call my home.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

“Savannah offered me an adventure that was just ready to begin.” Eleven years ago when Maria Fernanda Lairet first visited her daughter, who was then living in Savannah, she was immediately struck by the city’s “magical,” intoxicating beauty. “It was like an old, familiar film that touched my soul or like a book that completely changed the way I see things,” she recalls.

Chatham county Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

of the region's ongoing development challenges- economic development and globalization. Currently she is working in a “more conceptual way” through the redesign of paper currencies from various parts of the world in different denominations, while touching on the political, economic and social issues of each country. Growing up as the youngest of six children in Venezuela, the artist says her protective parents kept her within their watchful gaze whenever possible. “My parents did not want me out of my comfort zone; they always protected me. I had to study in Caracas at the Caracas Design Institute.” Ever the dreamer, however, Maria was just waiting for her chance to fly. “I always believed there is a time to dream and to fly above any situation,” she says, “And because (learning English) was extremely

Her emphasis is on those that are known internationally. In some of her latest works, Maria’s creative process involved taking banknotes and currency from various countries, both currently in use and obsolete, and used a variety of graphic techniques that help to fuse the images with different color combinations and her unique decorative designs.

Chatham county Living

important to me, I remained frustrated during those years because I didn't have the opportunity to learn it. At one point, I was even chosen to attend one of the best design institutes for two months in Araya, a magical place in Venezuela; I was to apprentice in the workshop of the famous artist Jesus Soto. However, because of their over-protective nature, my parents never allowed me to go.” Undaunted, Maria kept her love for art alive through her teenage years and developed a real love for photography. “From my childhood, I have always loved to paint, and I discovered (through painting) that photography also fascinated me. I remember saving my money and buying an underwater Minolta camera. I was always taking pictures under the water, and I let myself be carried away by this passion.” As

luck would have it, when Maria was 19 years old, her father gave her a Nikon FE2 camera. “It was my first automatic, professional camera, and I still have it today,” she beams proudly. Thus, it was around this time that Maria began to build her portfolio. “Since 1986 before I graduated, I had been building it with all my exhibitions from different parts of the world,” she says. In addition to her photography, Maria never lost her passion for painting. “Painting is like engendering a situation or emotion in a person. (When I paint) I transport myself and let myself go, my contemplation arises and gives free rein to fantasy and lines, strokes and brush strokes. Today, my works are a reflection of the universe and of everyday life.” Maria's first step toward realizing her American dream was to purchase an apartment in downtown

Hometown Living At Its Best

Savannah in 2010. “At the time my family thought I was crazy,” she says with a laugh, “but they are now happy that I am here. However, it is not easy to be in a city where you do not know anyone. It's been a challenge to re-create your life in a totally different culture, but I'm enjoying it.” Then three years ago, Maria decided to apply for an artist Visa to this country, and, to her delight, was soon granted one. “Because of my extensive career as a visual artist and photographer, I was awarded the EB 11 Visa for 'Extraordinary ability.' I was extremely happy since it would allow me to take some courses at SCAD to brush up on my English. It was then when I began to see that everything has its time, its raison d'être, and that dreams do come true. That's when I decided to live in Savannah. My children had graduated and were doing well in their (respective) fields, so I just went for it.” After graduating from Queens University with a degree in Business Administration and Finance, Maria's son Antonio worked in the financial districts in both Charlotte and Miami. He then moved to Mexico City to study acting at CEA Televisa, the largest media company in Latin America. Her daughter, Maria, graduated from SCAD with a dual major in Advertising and Graphic

Chatham county Living

Design and is currently working with the Creative Director at Digisalud in Caracas, Venezuela. Although her daughter is now married and no longer residing in Savannah, Maria is determined to pursue her dream of opening her own studio in the city. In fact, in order to brush up on her English, the fifty-five-year followed her daughter's lead and enrolled in SCAD to take a course on English as a second language. However, she says she found the process a bit daunting at first. “My classmates are mostly Chinese, so it was hard for us to speak to each other, and I don't get to converse with the locals too much. However, my speaking and writing are slowly getting better,” she says. In November of last year, Maria was the only Latin American artist to win the Global Art Award in Dubai (“Street Art” category). She also had a series of her works displayed at the Silicon Valley Airport in San Jose and was recognized in Nashville Arts Magazine as one of the photographers of the year for her series entitled “Bolivia Reflected.” In some of her latest works, Maria's creative process involved taking banknotes and currency from various countries, both currently in use and obsolete, and used a variety of graphic techniques that help to fuse the images with different color combinations and her unique decorative designs. The compositions include currencies from differing regions, but her emphasis is on those that are known internationally: the euro, the dollar, and the Chinese yen. In her spare time, Maria has served as a volunteer for the Kids Cafe program at Butler Elementary and for the art department at SCAD. “It makes me happy to help people in need and who truly want to learn,” she says with a smile. But it is through art, she says that one is able to learn about their inner self. “I believe that through artist expression, a person learns to understand what they were created to transcend, to extend the wings of their inner world. In this way you elevate yourself.” And after twenty-five years in her particular artistic medium, Maria says she now has hopes of opening a new studio in Savannah. “I had a studio back in Caracas, where I taught yoga and meditation classes to students both young and old. I really hope to continue teaching art, yoga and meditation here in Savannah while representing Latin American artists like myself. I truly want to reach the hearts of the people in this magical city that I now call my home.”  CCL

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EVERYTHING

is connected

Dr. Jonathan Christy is excited to bring a relatively new form of treatment to his patients suffering from arthritic pain.

When it comes to orthopedics, they say everything is connected: bones, joints, ligaments, and cartilage. The physicians at Optim Orthopedics in Savannah are also connected, working closely together to provide comprehensive care that focuses on improving the quality of life of all their patients. Furthermore, all of the doctors at Optim are fellowship-trained surgeons, and one of them, Jonathan Christy, MD is excited to bring a relatively new form of treatment to his patients suffering from arthritic pain. “My specialty is hip and knee replacement, but I’ve recently added another modality to help keep my patients out of the operating room,” he says. “It’s a system called Lipogems, and it’s a new form of cutting-edge technology used in the treatment of pain. About two years ago, I started looking into regenerative medicine, stem cells in particular. Ironically, I was skeptical about it at first, but I had some of my patients request the procedure, so I decided to look

W 20

chatham county living

into it. Once I determined that it was safe, I completed my training, got certified and soon started implementing the treatments. So far, I’ve done about 40 of the procedures and found that my patients receive significant pain relief around 75% of the time. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely something I bring up to patients who are leaning toward surgery.” The Lipogems system basically uses the body’s own fat tissue to help cushion and support areas of injury. Recently named the best new technology in sports medicine, the procedure is now available at Optim Orthopedics through Dr. Christy, who has been at the practice for the past five years. “As a new technology recently cleared by the FDA, it seeks to harness the body’s ability to heal itself,” he explains. “It basically involves taking cells that have healing potential and moving them into a diseased or arthritic joint.” The cells are harvested predominantly from abdominal

fat and then injected into the problem areas, which can include hips, knees, shoulders or whatever arthritic joint may be problematic to the patient. It’s also much more aggressive than traditional steroid injections. This is partly because, given the right conditions, stem cells can go into virtually any body part. “Like steroid shots, it’s another option that can alleviate pain and help keep patients off of the operating table,” continues Dr. Christy. “Plus, it’s much less invasive and safer than surgery. It’s definitely an option that I discuss with my patients before operating.” Dr. Christy completed his fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at the world-renowned Midwest Orthopedics at Rush University in Chicago. During his fellowship, Dr. Christy trained with many pioneers in the field of total joint replacement. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from West Virginia University in 2004 with a B.S. in Biochemistry. Dr. Christy went on to complete his orthopedic residency at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, and in his final year, he was selected as the Chief Resident for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. After moving to Savannah in 2013 from West Virginia, Dr. Christy says that he and his family have come to appreciate their adoptive city. “We are knocked out by the Southern hospitality and the culture of the South, which is quite unique. As transplants to Savannah, it has taken a bit of getting used to, but my wife Jennifer and our two kids are loving it. We’re glad to be here,” he says. Dr. Christy is also becoming quite adept at another Southern pastime: boating. “We’re on the water pretty much any weekend that my wife and I are not working. I’ve recently gotten into fishing and found that it’s definitely an art in and of itself,” he laughs. Dr. Christy says that during his time thus far at Optim Orthopedics, he’s been particularly pleased to work alongside some of the finest physicians in the area as well as to be able to give his patients the highest quality treatment for their pain, especially through the use of stem cells. “I really love helping people to stay active and get the most out of their lives,” he says. Dr. Christy is licensed in both Georgia and South Carolina. He serves patients at Optim Orthopedic’s Georgia offices located in Savannah, Hinesville, and Brunswick, as well as their South Carolina locations which include a new Bluffton office and, later this fall, a new Hilton Head location. Optim’s expanding network of well-equipped and expertly staffed facilities serves southeastern Georgia and Beaufort County, South Carolina to provide the highest quality care close to your home. For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Christy, visit optimhealth.com or call (912) 644-5395.

NEW TECHNOLOGY “My specialty is hip and knee replacement, but I’ve recently added another modality to help keep my patients out of the operating room,” he says. “It’s a system called Lipogems, and it’s a new form of cutting-edge technology used in the treatment of pain.

210 EAST DERENNE AVE, SAVANNAH, GA 31405 | 912.644.5395 | OPTIMHEALTH.COM Hometown Living At Its Best

An Unexpected

Engagement

Romance takes center stage for Eva and Jim at Savannah Square

chatham county living

Savannah

Square

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY The couple really keeps things alive: Jim threw a surprise 90th birthday party for Eva with friends and even family, who traveled into town making the moment all the more special. Eva, a mother of four and grandmother of four, always appreciates visits from family, who now live across the country.

Savannah Square hosts a number of residents from all walks of life and carries the motto A Senior Living Community Where Friends Become Family. This couldn’t be more true as in the case of Eva Conners and Jim Ownbey, who have now been residents at Savannah Square for over five years, respectively. Eva and Jim met at Savannah Square roughly three years ago, when Jim stopped in the lounge and asked if anyone wanted to join him for brunch at Waffle House. Eva promptly raised her hand, open to a new friendship and as to never pass up the opportunity to enjoy a gourmet waffle—that Jim so generously promised. This would be the catalyst for what would ultimately become their relationship and eventual engagement. The couple still maintains their own residences and is in no rush to marry, as they simply enjoy one another’s companionship, stating, “we understand each other and it’s always so easy to talk about anything.” Both coming from previous marriages of approximately sixty years, they often and openly talk about their family and late spouses. The couple really keeps things alive: Jim threw a surprise 90th birthday party for Eva with friends and even family, who traveled into town making the moment all the more special. Eva, a mother of four and grandmother of four, always appreciates visits from family, who now live across the country. Jim, a retired Air Force Navigator, has three children—two of which he’s proud to say are in the military—and five grandchildren, who he enjoys fishing trips with alike. The two find numerous activities to partake in: Eva’s room displays a number of her oil paintings on the walls and she’s a competitive Bridge player, while Jim enjoys analyzing stocks and collecting antiques, including a rare gun from the mid-sixteen hundreds. Both also take advantage of a number of gourmet, delicious meals, concocted by two professional chefs hosted at Savannah Square for the residents to enjoy not only healthy meals, but truly quality dishes. Eva and Jim have a lifetime of endless anecdotes, and their stories continue to grow with wonderful new experiences to share every day. When asked what their favorite aspect of living at Savannah Square was, Jim responded without hesitation, “the people.” It’s this kind of atmosphere—a combination of staff, amenities and residents—that someone can expect to embrace at Savannah Square, where one can find new friends, new love and a true sense of community. Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham county Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham county Living

From the very beginning of what would ultimately become Marche De Macarons, owners Amy Shippy and Laura Hale say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always let their instinct guide them, along with Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help. And to think it all came about from pot luck... literally.

If you've ever been somewhat skeptical about the notion of divine intervention, then you may just change your mind after reading this article. This is the story of two Savannah women who started their own bakery with just $800, a unique idea and a good deal of tenacity. In the last six years, however, the pair has managed to turn their meager investment into a hugely successful business with eleven employees at five locations that serve an

ever-growing customer base. Not bad for a couple of women who say that they never really had a game plan. From the very beginning of what would ultimately become Marche De Macarons, owners Amy Shippy and Laura Hale say they've always let their instinct guide them, along with God's help. And to think it all came about from pot luck... literally.

Hometown Living At Its Best

At their midtown location, Amy recalls how the pair turned a creative idea for a cookie into a thriving business. “Seven years ago, I was trying to come up with something to bake for a cookie swap party at my friend (co-owner) Laura's house. After reading a blog about macarons, I decided to give them a try.” The meringue-based, two-sided cookie is actually a French delicacy, but Amy relished the challenge. “I had nothing to lose since I had never made one or even eaten one, so I had nothing to compare them to,” she says. As it turns out, Amy's macarons were a hit, to the surprise of both women. “Everyone didn't really know what to make of them at first, but once they tried them,

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the cookies were an overwhelming success,” says Amy's partner Laura. Thus, in January of 2012, Laura suggested that she and Amy make another batch of macarons, this time with the hopes of turning a profit. “Amy came to my house one day and we just started baking,” Laura recalls. For this batch, though, the ladies experimented with different flavors, which didn't quite turn out according to plan. “They were a complete disaster!” Amy laughs. Although the delicacy has comparatively few ingredients, they found baking macarons to be a challenge. “We soon realized that they're really tricky to make,” adds Laura, “so it was beginner's

Their tenacity soon paid off, and the following month the pair decided to sell their newly-perfected product. “We had so many cookies sitting around that needed getting rid of,” laughs Laura, “so we took them to our kids' soccer games, giving samples to anyone who asked and before we knew it, we had orders for eighteen dozen.” It wasn't long before Amy suggested the pair open up their own bakery.

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As far as a name for the business, they first came up with “Maison de Macarons,” but ran into a bind with another bakery. “There was a New York baker who said our name was similar to his, which was trademarked,” says Amy. “We wanted to stay with ‘MDM,’ so we literally looked up French words that started with ‘M’ that also made sense. We ended up with ‘Marche,’ which means ‘market.’”

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luck with the first batch. However, we're both perfectionists, so we kept at it. With macarons, any number of things can go wrong, so we definitely went through some trial and error.” Their tenacity soon paid off, and the following month the pair decided to sell their newly-perfected product. “We had so many cookies sitting around that needed getting rid of,” laughs Laura, “so we took them to our kids' soccer games, giving samples to anyone who asked and before we knew it, we had orders for eighteen dozen.” It wasn't long before Amy suggested the pair open up their own bakery. Despite their initial success, Laura admits that she found the idea of owning her own business quite daunting. “It was out of my comfort zone since I've always worked for someone else,” explains Laura, “but I have a lot of trust in Amy. Plus, her enthusiasm is really contagious, and I figured that if anyone could do it, Amy and I could.” Their first order of business was to find a location. “At first, we were just operating out of Laura's home, but it turns out that you can't sell anything to the public that you make at home,” explains Amy. “We then designed our logo, got our business cards printed, and decided to pool our little money together and find a place.” The location turned out to be a fortuitous find, and as it turns out, the first of many for the ladies. “A customer referred us to a caterer on Skidaway Road,” continues Amy. “By sheer luck, it turned out they had a huge kitchen with a front space that was not being used. We gave them $100 that day and rented space there for the next six months.” As far as a name for the business, they first came up with “Maison de Macarons,” but ran into a bind with another bakery. “There was a New York baker who said our name was similar to his, which was trademarked,” says Amy. “We wanted to stay with 'MDM,' so we literally looked up French words that started with 'M' that also made sense. We ended up with 'Marche,' which means 'market.'”

Their next step involved promoting the business. “We decided to purchase a sign for our bakery, and commissioned someone to do it for $1500. Well, that didn't pan out, so we canceled the order,” says Amy. There was yet another hitch. The Department of Agriculture showed up and told the ladies that they had 60 days to vacate the catering business. “They said that it was a violation to have two businesses use the same kitchen under one license,” recalls Amy, “so I hurriedly started looking for another place. That was when I happened upon a

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Jamaican restaurant in midtown. I called Amy and told her that if the restaurant would go out of business, the location would be perfect for us. I bet we could afford it.” As if by divine intervention (again), two days later Amy spotted a sign in its window stating that it had indeed gone out of business. “We signed the lease right then and there, and even negotiated with the landlord to pay for all the renovations that we'd need. The money we saved allowed us to put a down payment on our lease. I truly believe the Lord influenced us somehow not to purchase the sign. It was like the fishes and the loaves!” After a successful year, the ladies decided to head downtown with their macarons. “After a year, everyone kept telling us we really needed to be downtown,” says Amy, “so a friend put us in touch with a baker at Cupcakes Emporium, who agreed to rent us some space.” However, after a few months

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they soon found that the demand for their product necessitated yet another move. “We were selling way more than we had ever imagined, so we needed our own (bigger) location to handle our demand.” On New Year's Eve of 2013, both of the ladies uncharacteristically decided to make the downtown run to drop off the daily supply when Amy spotted another sign in a window. “At the corner of Broughton and Abercorn, there was a 'For Rent' sign in the window of Tier Cupcakes, so we called the number immediately. The landlord told us they had put the sign up that morning! It turns out we knew the owner from some food events, and we went inside and knew we'd found our perfect spot. The next day was New Year's Day 2014, our first day open at our current location. The Lord was looking out for us again!” Now in addition to their locations on Paulsen and Abercorn, the ladies

also have displays in The Salt Table in Pooler and Branches in Hilton Head. “We can also ship anywhere in the U.S.,” says Amy with a smile. Their macarons are made fresh daily, and because they are made with almond flour, they are naturally gluten-free! Looking back over the last six years, the two women attribute their success to their faith in themselves and in God, and with every obstacle they faced, the ladies simply rolled up their sleeves and rolled with the punches. “We've always held a certain standard of what we expect from ourselves and our employees,” says Laura, “and being in unity has been an integral part of both our friendship and our partnership. There was really no plan for this; it was just a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where we are now, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished together.”  CCL

Looking back over the last six years, the two women attribute their success to their faith in themselves and in God, and with every obstacle they faced, the ladies simply rolled up their sleeves and rolled with the punches. “We've always held a certain standard of what we expect from ourselves and our employees,” says Laura, “and being in unity has been an integral part of both our friendship and our partnership. There was really no plan for this; it was just a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where we are now, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished together.”

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HELPING

Children SUCCEED

HunterMaclean’s attorneys are involved in many community activities and organizations throughout the state.

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With offices in Savannah and Brunswick, HunterMaclean is a business law firm representing companies across the Southeast and throughout the United States. Their clients range from global companies to mid-size and small businesses and include Fortune 500 companies, professional service organizations, non-profits, and start-up ventures. Founded in 1879, the firm is committed to building long-term, strategic relationships that help their clients navigate an ever-changing business landscape. In addition to serving their clients, HunterMaclean’s attorneys are also involved in many community activities and organizations throughout the state. “We’re proud to say that each of our partners, along with our associates and staff, is generally involved in some sort of philanthropic or charitable organization, working to make Savannah a better place,” says attorney Christopher (Smitty) Smith. In fact, when he’s not busy handling ports and logistics litigation, Smitty coaches a “10 and Under”

A GOOD COMBINATION Adam Kirk has worked with Smitty since 2005, and the pair had coached together before joining the Dawgs’ organization. “I have a son on the team who’s a year younger than Smitty’s sons,” explains Adam. “Although I’m not the football expert in this group, I have coached other sports with my son and daughters. For me, it’s been really fulfilling to help make any sport ‘click’ with a kid.

football team called the Savannah Dawgs along with two of his colleagues at the firm, Adam Kirk and Patrick Barkley. “I’ve coached every sport there is,” says Smitty, who’s been the Dawgs’ head coach for three years, “so when my 10-year-old twin boys starting playing football, I soon became their coach and have had a blast ever since. Although we have fun, our emphasis is always on school first and football second.” Adam Kirk has worked with Smitty since 2005, and the pair had coached together before joining the Dawgs’ organization. “I have a son on the team who’s a year younger than Smitty’s sons,” explains Adam. “Although I’m not the football expert in this group, I have coached other sports with my son and daughters. For me, it’s been really fulfilling to help make any sport ‘click’ with a kid. When they ultimately see the light, it’s an awesome thing to be part of.” Patrick Barkley is an associate at HunterMaclean who also happened to play football in college. Although he was the last of the three to join the Dawgs, he says he had no problem fitting right in. “Because of my football background, Smitty approached me last year about helping out with the practices,” he says. “From there it just morphed into my role as an assistant coach. I enjoy teaching this new generation of young men all the valuable life lessons that the game has taught me.” Smitty nods in agreement, adding, “Football helped to make me the person I am today, so I try to teach our players some of the lessons I learned through the game. Each week we focus on a character-related lesson, and these are lessons that can be applied for a lifetime.” HunterMaclean is committed to serving its clients as well as its community, helping to bring prosperity to both. To learn more, please visit www.huntermaclean.com or call 912.236.0261

200 EAST SAINT JULIAN STREET | SAVANNAH GA, 31401 TEL: 912.236.0261 | FAX: 912.236.4936

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Let me help you with your buying or selling needs!

Kim Iler | 912.210.0032 | 6349 Abercorn Street | Savannah, GA 31405 | www.coldwellbanker.com

128 HABERSHAM STREET

Three story brick building, historically built 1854. Building has been maintained and updated. Beautifully redone hardwood floors, interior and exterior paint, updated floor plan for office use. Stairway access for each floor.

helping children

reach their full potential Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy is helping infants and toddlers that are delayed in reaching their developmental milestones

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The first three years of life are a period of incredible growth in all areas of a baby’s development. During this time, babies learn to roll, sit, crawl, stand, walk and run; to talk, joke, rhyme and sing. But not every child develops in the same way or within the same timeline. Often times, infants and toddlers are delayed in reaching developmental milestones or may show idiosyncratic patterns in development. For these children, early intervention for these disabilities and delays can be critical in their ability to “catch up” or function at their optimal ability level. “Early intervention” is a term that refers to a support system for children with developmental disabilities or delays between the ages of birth-3 years and their families. Early intervention may include, but is not limited to, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral therapy and family/caregiver education. It is important for parents to be familiar with developmental milestones and to speak with a pediatrician regarding any concerns regarding their child’s development. So, how can our pediatric therapists at Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy help children reach their fullest potential? Speech Therapy: Speech-language pathologists provide services and support for families and their children to address delays and disabilities in communication, language,

speech, emergent literacy and feeding/swallowing (ASHA.org). Effective communication is fundamental to all aspects of human functioning, particularly learning and social interaction.Children who have or are at risk for motor or cognitive disabilities are particularly vulnerable to concomitant speech and language deficits due to the interrelationships among cognitive, motor and communication skills. (ASHA) Occupational Therapy: Occupational Therapists provide treatment for children who have a wide variety of diagnoses. They work with improving a child’s abilities across all environments including their home, school and community settings. Treatment focuses on developing the skills that “occupy” a child’s life. These include: activities of daily living (ie: feeding and dressing), developing fine motor skills, learning visual motor/perceptual skills and developing the ability to manage the sensory processing needed to function in everyday environments. Physical Therapy: Physical Therapists provide interventions & support for children & their families to address delays & limitations in range of motion, strength, balance, coordination and gross motor skills. Physical therapy services help to prevent or lessen difficulties with movement and related functional problems. Developing effective functional mobility skills is important to all aspects of a child’s physical, emotional & social well-being. Early intervention is key to achieving optimal results with the development of gross motor skills. You should speak with your child’s physician should you have any concerns regarding any of these areas in your child’s development. Your pediatrician is able to refer them to highly trained speech, occupational or physical therapists to complete a thorough evaluation of your child and determine if early intervention is warranted. For more information regarding developmental milestones for children age birth through five years visit CDC- Developmental Milestones: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html

Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy 110 PIPEMAKERS CIRCLE, STE 115 | POOLER, GA 31322 2451 B HWY 17 SOUTH | RICHMOND HILL, GA 31324 912-988-1526 | WWW.CHATTERBOXPEDS.COM

DELAYED DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES “Early intervention” is a term that refers to a support system for children with developmental disabilities or delays between the ages of birth-3 years and their families. Early intervention may include, but is not limited to, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral therapy and family/caregiver education. Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story by Stephen Prudhomme Photos by the United States Army

Like many boys his age, Kenneth M. Dwyer dreamed of being a professional athlete, soccer being his best sport and the most likely to pay him for his services. The dream lasted through high school, when he realized he wouldn’t be sharing the pitch with pro soccer players. Instead, he became a professional military man, losing a hand and an eye in combat but remaining in the Army and serving as an inspiration for countless people with his unwavering will to soldier on and, in a nod to his soccer career, to kick away perceptions of limitations. A lieutenant colonel, Kenneth, 41, is the commander of the Hunter Army Airfield U.S. Garrison in Savannah. He’s held that command since 2017. His 19 years in the Army have included service as an infantry officer and in Special Forces. Kenneth is third-generation military. Despite that pedigree, his interest was in sports rather than following the family tradition. Unfortunately, by high school, he realized he wasn’t even good enough to play soccer in college, never mind the pro level. In the meantime, Kenneth took ROTC in high school and discovered he liked it. That led to an ROTC scholarship at Furman University and a new passion in life. “I absolutely loved (ROTC),” says Kenneth,

who started out majoring in computer science. Not caring for the math, he switched to health and exercise science and earned a Bachelor’s degree in that field. “It was the next best thing to a pro soccer career. I was paid to be in great shape.” Kenneth graduated as an infantry officer and was assigned to the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He served there from 1999 to 2002 and says he had a great time. Following the events of 9/11, he went to Afghanistan and was a member of the first conventional military response during a six-month deployment. “It was unbelievably exciting,” he says, adding that it was 90 percent preparation and 10 percent actual adventure. Following a four-month training stint at Fort Benning, Kenneth, in search of the place where he could have the greatest affect on the battlefield, was selected for Special Forces training, a 12 to18month intense program that tests a candidate’s physical, mental and emotional limits, and one that has a high attrition rate. The former soccer player kicked another winner, earning one of the few coveted spots. “I learned a ton,” says Kenneth, who also learned to speak Farsi during a six-month stint at language school. “It was a great experience.” His first overseas tour with Special Forces took Hometown Living At Its Best

“The word ‘can’t’ doesn’t exist for him.” Kenneth’s wife, Jennie, has seen her husband overcome many challenges during their 18 years of marriage. So far, she hasn’t seen one that’s gotten the better of him. “Not only does he never give up when faced with a challenge, he rises up,” says Jennie, noting her husband always has been ultracompetitive and possesses a sense of humor.

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him back to Afghanistan. He remained there for six months. Then came his third deployment to Afghanistan, in 2006, the one that would change his life. On August 19, while riding in the rear of a machine gun truck, Kenneth and his men were hit by a rocket-propelled grenade. The explosion ripped off his left hand. Shrapnel tore through his face and under his right shoulder. “Everything blacked out,” he says. “I didn’t see or hear anything. I felt like I was floating to heaven. Then I felt my heart beating and knew I was still alive.” The problem was, he showed few signs of life. One of his

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“He doesn’t see disabilities.” “Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer doesn’t allow any of his limitations to stop him,” Lavander says. “He’s a good golfer. He doesn’t see disabilities. He had a choice. He could have taken disability, but he chose to continue to serve. You want to work for and with him. He’s just awesome. It’s an honor to work with him.”

men, thinking he was dead, tossed him aside in the truck. Fortunately, someone else noticed he was still moving and began emergency medical care. Kenneth, with a missing hand, holes in his face and throat, and an arterial bleed in his right arm, was patched together and kept alive. Kenneth was eventually taken to Walter Reed Army Medical Center and began a six-month recovery period. Along with losing his left hand, he also lost his left eye and went through a bone sutured tracheotomy. Kenneth came close to having his right arm amputated, but one of his medics convinced the doctor not to remove it. Through it all, he experienced indescribable pain but never gave up in his quest to regain his health. “I had all positive things around me,” he says, alluding to his escape from death several times and not having his arm amputated. “I was very blessed. God must have had plans for me. I was told my survival and recovery were aided by being in great physical shape.” It took a heartfelt gesture and comment from his 3-year-old son, visiting him in the hospital in the first few weeks after he suffered the injuries, that gave Kenneth the ultimate incentive to keep working toward a full recovery. “He kissed the stitches on my right arm and said, ‘It’s all better now, let’s play baseball,’” Kenneth says. “That was 44

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a life-changing moment. I felt there was nothing I can’t do.” Kenneth’s wife, Jennie, has seen her husband overcome many challenges during their 18 years of marriage. So far, she hasn’t seen one that’s gotten the better of him. “Not only does he never give up when faced with a challenge, he rises up,” says Jennie, noting her husband always has been ultracompetitive and possesses a sense of humor. “The word ‘can’t’ doesn’t exist for him.” Even when her husband barely escaped death and faced a long and painful recovery period, Jennie went along with his decision to remain in the Army. “He always wanted to be in the military,” Jennie says. “As long as he wanted to continue, I would support him 100 percent. This is what he’s meant to do. This is what he’s going to do. I’m the grounded one, the anchor. He does what he needs to do and I bring him back home.” About two years after nearly being killed in battle, following countless hours of grueling treatment and therapy, Kenneth finally did have the chance to play baseball with his son and do just about everything else he did prior to the attack. Despite having a metal hook for a left hand and a glass eye, he played golf, various sports with his kids, and even went back to Afghanistan with the Army and jumped out of planes, recording more jumps than he had prior to the attack. Despite

his injuries, Kenneth says he never considered leaving the military, remarking that the one skill he possesses is being too stupid to quit anything he’s started. Command Sergeant Major Lavander Wilkerson has served with Kenneth for more than a year. Not only does he work with him, but Lavander also interacts with Kenneth at the gym and marvels how his commander and friend equals and surpasses the efforts of able-bodied soldiers. “Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer doesn’t allow any of his limitations to stop him,” Lavander says. “He’s a good golfer. He doesn’t see disabilities. He had a choice. He could have taken disability, but he chose to continue to serve. You want to work for and with him. He’s just awesome. It’s an honor to work with him.” Kenneth remains ready, willing and able to take on the challenges of his command and personal and

family life, with the emphasis on able. “The hardest thing is overcoming preconceived notions of what people think I can and can’t do,” he says. “The only real disability in life is to lose the desire to continue the fight. I always want to do the best I can. I want my kids and my men to see that it’s not okay to quit because life gets hard, and I’ve been blessed with the unique opportunity to prove it. No matter how many ‘parts’ you have, you can still get after it each and every day and choose to live life to the fullest.”  CCL Despite having a metal hook for a left hand and a glass eye, he played golf, various sports with his kids, and even went back to Afghanistan with the Army and jumped out of planes, recording more jumps than he had prior to the attack. Despite his injuries, Kenneth says he never considered leaving the military, remarking that the one skill he possesses is being too stupid to quit anything he’s started.

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AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS | RETIREMENT 46

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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 planning for your financial future, 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:

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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

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STRAIGHT TALK from

Kate Strain

Many business owners incorrectly believe that they have the unfettered right to use the names of their companies and products based on their corporate entity filing with the Georgia Secretary of State’s office and/or their trade name registration in the Superior Court of the local county. Kate Strain, a trademark attorney with Belzer PC, a boutique intellectual property law firm in Savannah that handles all national and international trademark issues for a Fortune 100 company, says she sees this all the time. She says, “I tell fellow attorneys, ‘When you form LLCs and corporations for your clients, the clients often believe erroneously that this grants their company trademark protection for that name. Because we learn in law school to think in terms of the worst-case scenarios, attorneys need to inform their clients that, in the trademark arena, a worst-case scenario would be the loss of their businesses due to having to change the name of the company and/or the inability to stop a competitor from using a similar name.’” Most businesspersons seem to be under-concerned about the names of their companies, Kate says. “There’s a smalltown, everyone-knows-you perception when, in fact, you’re up against every business on the Internet in the United States.” Kate explains further, “I tell fellow attorneys, ‘One of the two ways your client could lose its business or a significant amount of its business due to a trademark issue would be that a competitor with greater rights to the name stops your client’s use of its name. Having to change its name, your client’s customers may not be able to find them, believe they have been bought out, etc., and sales may drop and force closure of the business. Alternatively, your client may be

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Why Your Business Needs Trademark Protection

unable to stop a competitor from using a similar mark and its customers mistakenly purchase goods or services from the competitor believing that they are purchasing from your client, and this seriously and fatally impacts your client’s revenues as well as its reputation.” Think of federal trademark protection as insurance against having to change your business name or being able to challenge efficiently and decisively a competitor who is using the same name. “Should a business with a federal trademark registration have to enforce its rights against a competitor, it is highly likely that the infringing competitor will see the registration number in the cease and desist letter and back down immediately,” adds Kate. Thus, a potential conflict is thwarted from the beginning, saving business owners valuable time and money. Before joining Belzer, PC, Kate worked for Hunter, Maclean, Exley & Dunn, PC, in Savannah. She is a member of the Intellectual Property section of the State Bar of Georgia and is admitted to practice in all three federal districts in Georgia. Kate came by her love of law naturally, as a fifthgeneration lawyer (the previous four attorneys growing up in Americus, Ga). She grew up in Macon and graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude from the University of Georgia’s Honors program. After teaching English for five years at Stratford Academy in Macon, she entered law school. Kate attended Tulane Law School for her first year and then returned to the University of Georgia for her second two years of law school graduating Cum Laude in 2003.

Businesspersons in the South, in particular, seem to be under-concerned about the names of their companies, Kate says. “There’s a small-town, everyone-knows-you perception when, in fact, you’re up against every business on the Internet in the United States.”

“I didn’t have the patience for teaching,” Kate jokes. During those teaching years, she considered getting an MFA and pursuing a creative writing career. Apparently genetics kicked in and steered her toward a legal career. “That first day of law school, I thought: I am so happy to be here; I should have done this years ago!” Kate lives in Savannah with her husband, Criss, and their two children, Chesley (14) and Charles (10). She loves reading, writing (mostly poetry) and attending plays at the community theater. Kate loves her church, Asbury Memorial Methodist. “It is a wonderful place for creative people,” she says. “Our motto is ‘Where the Joy of God is Expressed Creatively.’ Every October our services focus on a different Broadway play and how it relates to the Bible and Christianity; and the best part is that we sing the songs and watch parts of the play being performed by our very talented congregation as well as local paid actors.” Kate is also involved with the United Way, where she uses her persuasive talents in fundraising. “I like making the community better,” she says. “I especially enjoy working with the United Way, where I can touch a lot of organizations.” You may contact Kate Strain at Belzer PC, 2905 Bull Street, Savannah; (912) 2363001; kstrain@belzerlaw.com.

“That first day of law school, I thought: I am so happy to be here; I should have done this years ago!”

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Adults, as opposed to children, are expected to respond more quickly in emergency situations, calling on greater life experience, knowledge and strength. Hadden Dart has challenged that perception. Only 9 years old, he sprang into action as adults around him watched, and likely saved a youngster from drowning in the ocean. Hadden is a rising fourth grader at Hess Elementary School in Savannah. He has a twin sister and an older brother and is a member of Cub Scout Pack 57, headed up by his father, Brian Dart. In May, at the annual Boy Scout Dinner in Savannah, Hadden was presented with the Honor Medal. Given by the National Council of the Boy

Hadden swam over to the youngster and pulled him up on his float. The boy had gone out to retrieve his boogie board and was bemoaning its loss as Hadden rescued him. “He said, ‘My boogie board!’ I told him it’ll be all right,” Hadden said. They swam back to shore on the float, and a lifeguard came up and thanked Hadden for his quick action.

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Scouts of America, the award is “for unusual heroism in saving or attempting to save a life at considerable risk to self.” For Hadden, his heroic action took place during the 2017 Memorial Day weekend. The Dart family was spending the day at Lido Key Beach in Sarasota, a spot they visit on a regular basis. According to Brian, a nor’easter had recently gone through the area and created high waves and a very strong riptide. “I told the kids to avoid the area near the rocks,” Brian said. Hadden was relaxing on a float in the water when he heard a cry for help. He spotted a boy a short distance away, near the rocks, struggling to stay afloat. “It was a deep, dark area where he was,” Hadden said. “There were a lot of waves. I thought this kid might be in trouble.” Hadden swam over to the youngster and pulled him up on his float. The boy had gone out to retrieve his boogie board and was bemoaning its loss as Hadden rescued him. “He said, ‘My boogie board!’ I told him it’ll be all right,” Hadden said. They swam back to shore on the float, and a lifeguard came up and thanked Hadden for his quick action. Brian said the boy, who he guessed was about 7 years old, was part of a large family gathering. The parents were seemingly unaware of their son’s whereabouts and left the beach a short time after Hadden brought the boy safely back to shore. Hadden was the hero of the day. “Hadden sprang into action when it was dangerous,” said Brian, who was fishing when he first noticed his son going out

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Hadden, whom his father describes as a good swimmer, said he didn’t have time to think about the dangers of swimming out to the boy, but just saw someone in need of help. He called on his Cub Scout training. “This is what the Cub Scouts are all about – giving you the training for a situation such as this,” Haden said. “They prepare you for life and other situations you’ll encounter.”

to help the struggling youngster. “His first response was to ensure that nothing bad happened to him. So many adults were not doing anything. He saw a kid who needed help and knew exactly what to do.” Hadden, whom his father describes as a good swimmer, said he didn’t have time to think about the dangers of swimming out to the boy, but just saw someone in need of help. He called on his Cub Scout training. “This is what the Cub Scouts are all about – giving you the training for a situation such as this,” Haden said. “They prepare you for life and other situations you’ll encounter.” A Boy Scout himself, Hadden’s 12-year-old

brother, Jackson, said he appreciates Hadden’s quick action. “I think it was amazing,” Jackson said. “He’s cool under pressure. It makes me feel proud of him.” Unlike some older brothers, Jackson doesn’t pick on Hadden. He said they have a good relationship and they’re always hanging out together. As for the national award, Brian said he’s proud of his son for doing something so special and that such individuals can’t be honored enough. Derek Mallow, senior district executive for the Savannah Boy Scouts, says it’s not only remarkable what Hadden did, but it’s a “huge, huge testament” that what the Scouts are learning is important,

Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham county Living

and emphasizes thinking of others rather than themselves. “It shows kids are paying attention when we’re not,” Derek said. “What the award does is provide a catalyst for parents and students that Scouting works and helps develop leadership skills. At the (December 2017) train wreck near (Olympia), Washington, an Eagle Scout was the first responder on the scene.” Derek describes Hadden as a remarkable young man who’s very humble. That humble demeanor, he added, shouldn’t be construed as a lack of decisiveness or inability to respond quickly. “Don’t judge a hero by the size of the cape,” Derek said.

Derek describes Hadden as a remarkable young man who’s very humble. That humble demeanor, he added, shouldn’t be construed as a lack of decisiveness or inability to respond quickly. “Don’t judge a hero by the size of the cape,” Derek said.

Hometown Living At Its Best

Hadden’s big moment came at the Boy Scout Dinner, when he shared the stage with former NFL quarterback and featured speaker Joe Theismann, shaking his hand and trying on his Super Bowl ring while the audience rendered enthusiastic applause. Theismann congratulated Hadden on his award. He noted that Hadden, along with first responders and military members – who put their lives on the line and whom he routinely thanks for their service – are the true heroes. About himself, Theismann said he’s not a hero, just someone blessed with certain abilities. In his youth, those abilities also included excelling as a Boy Scout. A native of New Jersey, Theismann made it all the way to Life Scout and said Scouting taught him valuable lessons he’s applied throughout his life. Meeting Theismann was one of many wonderful moments for Hadden at the Boy Scout Dinner. “It was fun,” Hadden said. “It made me feel happy. I also got to meet the chief of police and a news reporter.” All in all, much deserved recognition for a super young man who merits a trip to Disney World for his lifesaving play.  CCL

Hadden was the hero of the day. “Hadden sprang into action when it was dangerous,” said Brian, who was fishing when he first noticed his son going out to help the struggling youngster. “His first response was to ensure that nothing bad happened to him. So many adults were not doing anything. He saw a kid who needed help and knew exactly what to do.”

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Story by D. Annette Sasser | Photos by Rebecca Galloway Photography

Sanders Gifts and Home Accents is where Southern charm meets modern style

It was Sunday afternoon and I had to hurry. Friends from Jupiter, Florida, had been guests in our home for a few days. My husband and I had made a lastminute decision to join them that evening for a meeting they planned to attend in Brunswick. As I hurriedly dressed, I suddenly remembered a particular necklace I had seen a few weeks earlier at Sanders Gifts and Home Accents. I knew that it would be perfect for my outfit.

“Could we run by Sanders on the way out?” I asked my husband, John. It wasn’t the first time John had heard me ask that question. I am fortunate to live close enough to the store, located off U.S. 80 East on the old Tybee road, that I can usually make a quick stop there even if I’m in a hurry. No matter whether I go to Sanders with time to browse or to purchase a spur of the moment piece of jewelry, I am always glad I did. When you enter the front door, a small

Hometown Living At Its Best

“Could we run by Sanders on the way out?” I asked my husband, John. It wasn’t the first time John had heard me ask that question

bell announces your arrival – but it doesn’t prepare you for the surprise and the charm. The store, which consists of a large front room, an upstairs and a back room, is filled with sea glass jewelry, palazzo pants, Snoozies slippers, scarfs, sweaters, home accents, handbags, collectables, year-round Christmas ornaments, various kinds of shells, hand-blown Italian glassware, jams and jellies, as well as exceptional Savannah souvenirs. Although Christmas ornaments and trimmings remain in the store year-round, Sanders Gifts and Home Accents is transformed into a North Pole adventure during the holiday season. The outside is decorated with hundreds of lights and displays that draw customers inside where they can embrace the holiday spirit with lights, Christmas villages, manger sets, ornaments and decorations galore. A visit to Sanders will most likely be enriched at some point by the appearance of the store’s “greeting committee” – Biscuit, Sybil or Georgia Girl. Of course, the sophisticated cats may choose to remain curled up somewhere in a corner and ignore you completely. Exquisite and unusual items are tastefully placed throughout the store, creating an air of charm and elegance, which I found to be a reflection of the store’s owner, Ann Canney.

No matter whether I go to Sanders with time to browse or to purchase a spur of the moment piece of jewelry, I am always glad I did. When you enter the front door, a small bell announces your arrival – but it doesn’t prepare you for the surprise and the charm.

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Doll House. There was also a little restaurant next door. That was a long time ago. But there are many people who still remember those days. The Sanders Doll House was eventually torn down.” Ann, an Ohio native, came to Savannah in 1980 when her late husband, Paul, retired from the Air Force. “Paul went to work with flight safety at the

Hometown Living At Its Best

A visit to Sanders will most likely be enriched at some point by the appearance of the store’s “greeting committee” – Biscuit, Sybil or Georgia Girl. Of course, the sophisticated cats may choose to remain curled up somewhere in a corner and ignore you completely. Exquisite and unusual items are tastefully placed throughout the store, creating an air of charm and elegance, which I found to be a reflection of the store’s owner, Ann Canney.

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airport. That’s what first brought us to Savannah,” said Ann. “I worked for the State Department for many years and then in administration with an airline out of Europe. After we moved to Savannah, I continued to work for the airline for a few years, but the flying in and out on the weekends got old.” The desire to spend more time with her husband led to a new adventure. “I never meant to be in the retail business, but after talking with Mabel Sanders with Sanders Construction Company, I discovered that they were planning to put a retail store where the old Victorian house once stood,” she said. “I thought about it for a

Hometown Living At Its Best

“Be successful in whatever you do. If you don’t want to be successful, don’t do it.” When I asked what Ann considered to be the most significant changes in her business over the years, she smiled and said, “It’s amazing. I never thought we would have apparel, jewelry, slippers and all that kind of stuff in the store. But things change and you have to go with the flow. We are surrounded by discount stores, so you have to be adaptable to change while providing merchandise that is a little bit different.”

while, and then did some marketing research. I thought about it some more and talked with my husband.” In 1984, Ann opened Sanders Country Store. At that time, country décor was hot. “I originally sold Habersham Plantation furniture and we sold some things on consignment. A lot of local artists and crafts people brought quilts and different things like that. The business has evolved over the years, as businesses do,” said Ann. “You can stay unique, but you also have to keep up with the times. I learned a long time ago that you have to branch out and diversify. For instance, we’ve recently added jeggings

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to our merchandise, which a lot of younger clientele especially enjoy.” Ann also used social media to move on with the times. “We have an email club,” she said. “We often give out coupons. For example, we offered a 25 percent off coupon for two weeks after Hurricane Matthew hit Savannah.” Many of the talented Sanders employees have been there for 25 years. “I have great people who work for me,” Ann said. “They are all friendly and pleasant, and able to take care of anything I need them to do. Everyone is part time. Most are retired from other jobs or work a couple of days for extra income. They all have such great talent, and I am thankful for them.” When I asked what Ann considered to be the most significant changes in her business over the years, she smiled and said, “It’s amazing. I never thought we would have apparel, jewelry, slippers and all that kind of stuff in the store. But things change and you have to go with the flow. We are surrounded by discount stores, so you have to be adaptable to change while providing merchandise that is a little bit different.” The store has served Savannah – and especially the coastal islands of Wilmington, Oatland, Talahi, Whitemarsh and Tybee – for many decades. “We’ve watched the islands change so much. We get a lot of Savannah and tourist traffic, but it’s the islanders who have supported us all these years,” she said. Sanders Gifts and Home Accents is more than “a little bit different.” It is a look back

“The building was built by Sanders Construction Company,” said Ann. “Years ago, the Sanders family lived in an old Victorian house that stood on this site, and for many years the lady of the house made cloth dolls. She would hang them on the oleander bushes so people going to and from Tybee Island on the old road could stop and buy them. It was called the Sanders Doll House. There was also a little restaurant next door. That was a long time ago. But there are many people who still remember those days. The Sanders Doll House was eventually torn down.”

to the old with a look forward to the new – a perfect example of how to combine the old spirit of Southern hospitality with today’s world. Ann’s motto is, “Be successful in whatever you do. If you don’t want to be successful, don’t do it.” The key word is ‘Do.’ It’s the doing that must be added to the dreaming for success to be possible.” For Ann, the doing is about serving people. It’s about bringing customers into a warm and welcoming place where they can discover something that calls to them or gives

them enjoyment. It’s the perfect place to spend time browsing or to make a fast run for the perfect piece of jewelry – and the piece made my outfit perfect, if I say so myself.  CCL Sanders Gifts and Home Accents 7908 U.S. 80 East, Savannah 912-897-4861 sanderstore@aol.com Sandersgiftsandhome.com Store hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story by David Pena Photos by Geoff Johnson, Kurt Kaindl, Michael Debrez and William Austin Smith

Every week millions of viewers tune in to shows like The Voice, American Idol or Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Got Talent in order to see the latest crop of talented singers showcase their talents in the hopes of making the big time. But along with the dedication and talent of each individual, there is usually a team of hard-working coaches, mentors and support staff who are integral to each performerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success. For aspiring artists in the Savannah area, Julie Rose Wilde has been an ever present force in the Hometown Living At Its Best

world of vocal and piano instruction for over two decades. Wilde has coached many aspiring and professional singers of all ages, including 11 year-old Turner Birthisel, who is currently touring in the role of Peter in the Broadway tour of Finding Neverland. Turner’s father Scott praises Wilde’s teaching techniques, saying, “Julie’s been absolutely great with both our kids. As far as the fundamentals go, you really could not find a better vocal coach. She demands excellence from her students but is also very realistic about their abilities.” American Idol finalist Stephanie Edwards echoes the sentiment, adding, “In addition to her instruction, Julie has really been like family to me. She has been a great mentor, and she’s really helped me to develop in order to perfect my craft.” Sarah Palmer has been training with Julie Rose Wilde for eight years, and Wilde coproduced “Fences,” Sarah’s first recorded original song and music video. “Julie has been an integral part of Sarah’s life since she was seven, not only as her vocal instructor but also as her mentor and friend,” explains Sarah’s mother Beth. “Sarah just signed with an agency in New York, and I feel that Julie was a big contributor

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to Sarah’s success.” Sarah adds, “She is steadily helping me to make my dreams into realities.” Wilde began her teaching career in Chatham and Jenkins County public school systems, where she taught general music for eight years, directing numerous choral and theatrical productions. After taking a decade-long sabbatical by moving to Atlanta and running her own theater company, she returned to Savannah to start her own music studio, The Wilde School of Music, which she now operates full-time. A self-described born romantic, Julie relishes tales of her unique lineage, which included a greatgreat-grandmother who was said to be a London stage singer of some renown. Julie’s grandfather was a producer of early New Hometown Living At Its Best

With her extensive list of accomplishments, Julie is in high demand as an instructor, but she is quick to point out the reality of shows like America’s Got Talent.

England vaudeville shows and her father, although untrained, was a talented singer as well. Her mother was a piano teacher who taught Julie to work hard and to take music seriously. “Growing up, we were always surrounded by music. Because my mother made music such a priority in our lives, I didn’t really know any different,” she says. Julie spent her childhood in Savannah, studying classical piano and singing at various functions and venues, which included at her church, at school, in talent shows, and in restaurants and civic clubs. 78

Chatham county Living

With all this performing, she says she understandably cherished her free time, which she often devoted to choreographing her own backyard productions. “I would round up all the kids in the neighborhood and teach them as if I knew what I was doing,” she laughs. “We would charge the parents a whopping 25 cents to attend the shows. I took it quite seriously. In fact, I still love creating elaborate showcases for my students.” Julie says she was inspired by her father’s big band albums and the Broadway albums bought with the savings from her weekly allowance. Her older sister, Lucy, was a

Hometown Living At Its Best

piano child-prodigy herself, and Julie’s mother, despite being a reputable piano teacher, thought it best to send her girls to study with her mentor at Georgia Word’s Preparatory School of Music. Although she relished her musical life, Julie says she always longed to be a professional dancer, but there was little time for dancing in her musically dominant household. “My mornings started with piano practice at 6 am, and my afternoons were often taken up with piano lessons,” she recalls. “I, also, had voice training one day a week and Sundays were usually set aside for playing and singing at church, but I could never separate music from dancing. Music has always just moved me in such a way that the body has to become involved (in the process).” Thus, at the age of 17, she began her dance training in earnest, which then continued for the next 25 years. She studied ballet, jazz and modern dance at Georgia Southern University and in many studios in Atlanta including the Dancers Collective and with choreographer Pat Floyd. In Savannah, she has studied and collaborated with

In addition to performing, Julie has composed, produced and recorded over 60 songs. She completed her most recent album of original music, a big band/ gypsy jazz fusion album in 2014, entitled “Bohemian Dream Cabaret: The Mystery of Love In Paris.”

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dancer Elizabeth Newkirk, with whom she offered a Dance for Musicians class for her students and singers in the Savannah area. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor of Music and a Masters of Science degree for Teachers in Piano/Voice, Julie studied most recently with Elizabeth Howard of Los Angeles, Jeanette LoVetri of New York and at CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institutes at Shenandoah Conservatory. She is now fluent in a variety of pedagogy methods for Contemporary, Commercial Music. Now a certified Level 3 Somatic Voicework teacher and a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, she is a highly sought after music instructor. A performer herself, Julie’s Savannah-based gypsy jazz band, The Bohemian Dream Band, won the 2012 Readers’ Choice Award as the

A performer herself, Julie's Savannah-based gypsy jazz band, The Bohemian Dream Band, won the 2012 Readers’ Choice Award as the best Jazz Band/Artist in Savannah and has been featured at The Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, S.C., the Lucas Theater in Savannah, St. Simon's Jazz in the Park series, and The Kiawah Island Concert Series.

Hometown Living At Its Best

Julie spent her childhood in Savannah, studying classical piano and singing at various functions and venues, which included at her church, at school, in talent shows, and in restaurants and civic clubs. With all this performing, she says she understandably cherished her free time, which she often devoted to choreographing her own backyard productions.

best Jazz Band/Artist in Savannah and has been featured at The Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, S.C., the Lucas Theater in Savannah, St. Simon’s Jazz in the Park series, and The Kiawah Island Concert Series. In the course of her performing career, Julie has sung with The Savannah Symphony Chorale, The Atlanta Repertory Opera, and at Le Petit Journal Montparnasse in Paris. In addition to performing, Julie has composed, produced and recorded over 60 songs. She completed her most recent album of original music, a big band/gypsy jazz 82

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fusion album in 2014, entitled “Bohemian Dream Cabaret: The Mystery of Love In Paris.” Arranged by William Austin Smith and recorded in legendary Davout Studios in Paris, the album features world-renowned guitarist Bireli Lagrene, the late, acclaimed French violinist Didier Lockwood, as well as big band drummer Jeff Hamilton. “It started out as a project to showcase my gypsy jazz/ cabaret tunes in a big band arrangement, but it ended up featuring (these) world-renowned musicians, which just blows me away,” she says. Julie’s other songwriting credits include “On Our Way,” the 2007 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s national campaign song for the Light the Night Walk. Another song, “Here I Am,” was recorded by Stephanie

[Julie Wilde] Edwards, who later sang it on American Idol Extra. Since then, Wilde has also written songs for Disney’s Buena Vista Music Group, and her instrumental works have been recorded by Velvet Caravan and pianist Jerry Gowen and have been performed by Savannah Strings, The Camel City Jazz Orchestra, and The Savannah Philharmonic. With her extensive list of accomplishments, Julie is in high demand as an instructor, but she is quick to point out the reality of shows like America’s Got Talent. “Sometimes I will have folks call me and expect me to help them become famous,” she says. “What they may not realize

is that most of my students have been successful because of years of training under their belt. That said, I truly care about the individual and want to help anyone I teach to nurture their talents. I have always had a passion and extreme sensitivity to everything around me, and music has been an outlet to express that, so I will always be involved in performing, teaching, and composing it, to some degree.”  CCL For more information, please visit www. julierosewilde.com Hometown Living At Its Best

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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.

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DIFFERENCE Open House: Sunday, November 11

The program begins at 1:30PM in the Morrison Pangaea Garden. The Open House is the best way for families to gain a comprehensive view of the Savannah Country Day School experience. In addition to a campus tour, current students and parents are present to share their experiences and answer questions. Guests also have the opportunity to meet with Country Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talented faculty, coaches, and fine arts instructors to learn more about

the Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outstanding programs and the admissions process, including financial aid. This event is open to both parents and prospective students. Parent Informational Coffee and Campus Tour All events begin at 9:30AM November 14

February 20

January 23

April 10

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March 6

Our informational coffees and campus tours are small group events where parents spend time in our classrooms and explore our 65-acre campus.

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A Heart For

For nearly two decades, Carlotta Booker has greeted shoppers at the Ogeechee Road Walmart with a warm and welcoming smile. Most of the storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customers know her by name, and Walmart associates are quick to praise their upbeat co-worker. Carlotta, however, is unlike any other employee at the store. She uses a motorized wheelchair and is unable to speak, but everyone who knows Carlotta will tell you that she has never let her disabilities define her. In fact, she fully comprehends what is said and responds with the help of a Dynavox communication device. And she has rarely missed a day of work since starting

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support & Training The Community Employment Services program currently supports over 250 individuals with developmental disabilities, working for more than 204 local employers. In addition, there are 162 trainees building new skills at EmployAbility's training center every day.

Hometown Living At Its Best

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really exciting for me to watch people come alive and blossom through what we do.â&#x20AC;?

specialized training Programs that help serve folks like Carlotta center around helping the adults to build and maintain practical skills through innovative educational opportunities as well as community-based experiences. The Prevocational Training program serves approximately 162 individuals, helping them to build employment skills before moving on to community employment. The individuals work in small groups with instructors on a variety of training programs, including packaging and logistics, specialized assembly, culinary arts, and custom printing.

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her job. Former Walmart manager Matt Joiner says, “Our customers really appreciate when she greets them warmly and thanks them as they leave our store.” Carlotta’s story is not all that unusual, though, as she and many others like her have been helped by EmployAbility, a local nonprofit organization that has been transitioning adults like Carlotta into the workforce for over six decades now. Executive Director Dr. Ken Boyd says, “In a nutshell, we prepare individuals with developmental disabilities for employment and community integration in Chatham, Effingham, and Bryan counties. We accomplish this through our three programs: Day Habilitation, Prevocational Training, and Community Employment Services.” Despite being a model employee, Carlotta ironically would not have had the option to even venture into the work force just a few decades ago. As recently as the 1950s, school districts did

Connection

Employment for individuals with disabilities also means that adults who otherwise might have been disconnected from the economy are now able to begin earning income, paying taxes, and reducing their dependence on public resources. It also helps them form the perception of themselves as independent contributors to their communities. “I have worked for 18 years, and it has helped me to be more confident around others,” says Carlotta. “It also gives me something to do that I enjoy.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

Chatham county Living

Preparation & Help

Carlotta's story is not all that unusual, though, as she and many others like her have been helped by EmployAbility, a local nonprofit organization that has been transitioning adults like Carlotta into the workforce for over six decades now. Executive Director Dr. Ken Boyd says, “In a nutshell, we prepare individuals with developmental disabilities for employment and community integration in Chatham, Effingham, and Bryan counties. We accomplish this through our three programs: Day Habilitation, Prevocational Training, and Community Employment Services.”

not accept children with developmental disabilities into their classrooms. This left many frustrated parents to either send their kids to state hospitals or keep them at home, thus depriving them of the necessary training needed to be considered for employment. As a result, in 1951 a group of parents led by Lillie Mae Kicklighter started a grassroots movement that resulted in the creation of a day program for children with developmental disabilities. Laura Lane McKinnon, Director for Organizational Advancement at EmployAbility, explains how the organization grew from these humble beginnings into the multi-faceted entity that now serves three counties. “It was great that the schools developed special programs for students with disabilities, but once these kids graduated, there was a need for continued services (for them). In other words, a gap still existed between the school system and retirement, so we began to help develop career opportunities for them by connecting with developing industries to build relationships that will result in increased workplace inclusion. Through it all, we have always tried to focus on a person’s abilities, not their disabilities.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

To hone their skills, individuals can work on contract jobs at the on-site training center, as well as support EmployAbility’s social enterprise catering and printing businesses.

Today EmployAbility serves over 400 individuals through three programs. The Day Habilitation program serves approximately 50 individuals with significant disabilities, including those with both cognitive and physical disabilities like Carlotta Booker. “In addition to the training we gave Carlotta, one significant thing we also did was to get her a Dynavox device to help her communicate,” says Ms. McKinnon. “The first thing she said to us was that she wanted a job. 96

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She loved being at the center, but she also had a real desire to be a part of her community.” Programs that help serve folks like Carlotta center around helping the adults to build and maintain practical skills through innovative educational opportunities as well as community-based experiences. The Prevocational Training program serves approximately 162 individuals, helping them to build employment skills before moving on to community employment. The individuals work in small groups with instructors on a variety of training programs, including packaging and logistics, specialized assembly, culinary arts, and custom printing. To hone their skills, individuals can work on contract jobs at the on-site training center, as well as support EmployAbility’s social enterprise catering and printing businesses. Board member Courtney Rawlins says, “Although we have a great job pool available to employers, you don’t have to hire one of our individuals to do your part. We have an on-site T-shirt printing shop as well as a program that prepares casseroles daily. Just place your order and come get your food, all prepared by individuals in our programs. Every day there’s wonderful things that happen at EmployAbility.” The Community Employment Services program currently supports over 250 individuals with developmental disabilities, working for more than 204 local employers. In addition, there are 162 trainees building new skills at EmployAbility’s training center every day. “Last year, 77 individuals joined the workforce for the first time and 18 new businesses partnered with EmployAbility and added an employee with a developmental disability to their team,” says Ms. McKinnon proudly. In 2017, EmployAbility assisted 220 individuals 18 or older with developmental disabilities to become employed via job coaching, with more than 75% of them earning above minimum wage. Once employed, these individuals were

able to gain greater economic independence for themselves and their families, in addition to becoming a more engaged member of the community at large. And, as Dr. Boyd explains, it’s not only the adults in the program who are reaping the benefits. “We’re putting people to work, which obviously helps the employers in the area, but it’s important to note that our adults are extremely productive employees, since we really stress work ethic skills (at EmployAbility). They truly want to contribute, so (once hired) employers are finding these individuals to be very committed and loyal workers. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.” Employment for individuals with disabilities also means that adults who otherwise might have been disconnected from the economy are now able to begin earning income, paying taxes, and reducing their dependence on public resources. It

also helps them form the perception of themselves as independent contributors to their communities. “I have worked for 18 years, and it has helped me to be more confident around others,” says Carlotta. “It also gives me something to do that I enjoy.” From the vantage point of prospective employers, Dr. Boyd says that these workers are not merely token additions to their staff; the positions are filled with competent, loyal employees who truly want to work. “It’s extremely gratifying to help these highly trained adults enter the workforce, knowing that they’re working in positions that really needed to be filled,” he explains. These positions include everything from employment in warehousing staff to food service and catering, from medical supplies and landscaping to several types of clerical positions. “We look into just about any job skill that can be taught,” adds Ms. McKinnon. And despite being the Hometown Living At Its Best

To learn more about the workforce development programming at EmployAbility, please visit www. employabilityga.org or call (912) 644-7500. To reach Laura Lane McKinnon, call (912) 644-7475.

Chatham county Living

largest organization of its kind in the state, she stresses that there’s still some work that needs to be done in terms of public awareness. “As government dollars are shrinking and program costs are expanding, we rely on the community to help support the important work we do. We also keep a wish-list on our website for anyone who would like to donate items as well. This fall we were excited to have our very first fund-raising event on site called ‘Flourish,’ which showcased our landscaping and culinary arts training programs and allowed the public experience our quality programming firsthand.” Carlotta Booker’s story is just one of the many success stories surrounding EmployAbility, and the organization is looking to continue bridging the gap between the educational system and the work force, much to the delight of its staff of about 80 or so. “It’s really exciting for me to watch people come alive and blossom through what we do,” says Ms. McKinnon. “Sadly a lot of the adults that we work with have often been marginalized or overlooked, so it’s immensely satisfying when someone is given the opportunity to show their true value. We’re shifting people’s perceptions about what is possible and changing hearts and minds every day. It’s a wonderful feeling to be part of it.” To learn more about the workforce development programming at EmployAbility, please visit www.employabilityga.org or call (912) 644-7500. To reach Laura Lane McKinnon, call (912) 644-7475.  CCL

we lc om e B r i a n Da rt VICE PRESIDENT AND COMMERCIAL BANKER

Brian Dart has joined Queensborough National Bank & Trust as Vice President and Commercial Banker for the Savannah market. Most recently he held the role of commercial relationship manager and private wealth banker. In his previous job, Dart introduced the wealth management banker role to the Southeast Georgia market, and has received national awards for his partnership and leadership.

Dart has offices in Rincon and in our Hodgson Memorial Drive location. A graduate of Georgia Southern University, Brian currently lives in Savannah with his wife and three children. He devotes much of his time to coaching youth baseball and to many nonprofit organizations, including Boy Scouts of America, Cub Master of Cub Scout Pack 57 and The Savannah St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade Committee.

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Savannah College of Art & Design students with special projects including one that involved mounting and framing a lizard. If your questions are not answered here on our site, feel free to give us a call or drop by. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. or by special appointment.

Greg McGinty, owner of Savannah Framing Company, was born in Savannah and began his framing career in 1987. He continues sharing his experience in his hometown today providing an extensive collection of signature frames, mats, and glass that suit a range of styles and budgets.

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S t o r y b y D . a n n e t t e s a ss e r

Wyll Dykstra has sailed the Pacific and ridden across the country, but finds himself most at home in his Savannah woodworking shop.

Photos by Dream weaver photos

Wyll Dykstra has traveled extensively as a professional musician, ridden his motorcycle across the country, sailed around the world on yachts, crossed the Pacific Ocean on a 90-foot Palmer Johnson sloop, and traveled across the Atlantic Ocean on the Spanish El Galeon Andalucia. But Wyllâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life has not always been so adventurous. In fact, most of his childhood was spent dealing with the effects of radiation poisoning.

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Today, there is no indication of the disfigurement that mostly affected the first 16 years of his life. Neither his mother nor the doctors realized that she was a few weeks pregnant with Wyll when she was subjected to more than 100 x-rays to determine a medical problem. “She became ill, and for some reason the doctors thought that she might be bleeding internally,” said Wyll. “The large amount of radiation she was exposed to at that time caused my body to become twisted in the womb.” Too late the doctors realized the pregnancy and feared the worse. They told Wyll’s mother that it

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would be best for her to have an abortion. But she did not agree. “I was born in 1979, and I had the worst case of clubfoot known to that date,” said Wyll. “The bottom part of my foot was touching the side of my leg. The top part of my foot was wrapped around my leg like a club. Thirty-five percent of my body was covered with radiation burns.” Wyll was in a corrective cast for the first two years of his life. Then, in 1981, his parents found a doctor who was willing to perform an experimental surgery. “It changed my life and gave me a future,”

When he’s not on the water, the majority of his time is spent in his wood shop called Wyllville Wood Craft. “It’s been a long time coming,” said Wyll. “This shop is a culmination of my life, which I see as a gift passed down to me from my forefathers.” Wyll recently built a mast for the 57-foot schooner Cassiopeia. “Among other things at Wyllville, I build wooden schooners, masts, cross trees, spars and blocks,” he said.

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Since that rainy night in Savannah, Wyll has made three voyages on the Galeon as the main carpenter, one of them across the Atlantic.

Wyll was looking for a new start when he visited a friend living in Savannah. “I immediately loved the area,” he said. “I had often thought about buying my own sailboat and working on seaworthy boats like my family had done for centuries.” Wyll moved to Savannah and bought a sailboat, which was also his home. He was quickly hired by Hinckley Yacht Works.

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said Wyll. “I don’t even know the doctor’s name or whether he is still alive. If he is, I would like to find him and thank him. He basically unzipped my leg, took all the little bones out of my ankle, and like a jigsaw puzzle put them all back together to make a new ankle. After the surgery I was able to start trying to learn to walk.” Wyll did learn to walk. But radiation burns still covered much of his body. Because his father was in the military and his mother was in radio, the family moved frequently. Wyll had to change schools often. “At every new school, kids and even adults would stare at me

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traveling across the country

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Whether traveling on Tall Ships, yachts or driving across country â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as he did in 2017 when he drove to Texas to help people rebuild after Hurricane Harvey â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wyll is most content when he returns home to Savannah and to his very own Wyllville.

Wyll’s grandfather tricked him and his brother into learning woodworking at a very young age, and Wyll proved to be a natural. After all, he was descended from a long line of craftsmen and boat builders. “My family has been building wood boats in the Netherlands for 600 years,” said Wyll. Today, Dykstra Navel Architects, a company owned by his distant relatives in the Netherlands, designs some of the world’s largest and fanciest sailing vessels.

from a distance,” said Wyll. “I think they were afraid to get close because they didn’t understand why my skin looked so terrible. Because of that, and the fact that I knew my stay at a school would be short lived, it was hard for me to fit in with the other kids. I don’t remember having any real childhood friends.” Nevertheless, as a child Wyll was adventurous and always up for a challenge. He was curious about life and eager to learn and to experience new things. He credits his grandfather as the one who encouraged and helped him the most. “My grandfather came to America from the Netherlands with his father,” said Wyll. “He made sailing vessels and little row boats on the Great Lakes, and my great-grandfather built wooden fishing vessels. Grandpa used what is now referred to as antique tools and built his house and everything in it: tables, chairs, beds, dressers, chests – everything!” Wyll’s grandfather tricked him and his brother into learning woodworking at a very young age, and Wyll proved to be a natural. After all, he was descended from a long line of craftsmen and boat builders. “My family has been building wood boats in the Netherlands for 600 years,” said Wyll. Today, Dykstra Navel Architects, a company owned by his distant relatives in the Netherlands, designs some of the world’s largest and fanciest sailing vessels. Wyll was young when his parents divorced. He lived mostly with his mother but made visits to his father during the year. His greatest enjoyment was spending six weeks every summer with his grandparents. “I worked in Grandpa’s woodshop and learned new skills every year,” said Wyll.

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Wyll’s grandmother spent hours putting ointment on the radiation burns and then cleaning away the dead skin. “I didn’t realize then that what she was doing would make a tremendous difference,” said Wyll. His grandmother died when he was 10, and one month later, most of the radiation scars had cleared. “They were completely gone by the time I was 26. I know that she was partly responsible for that.” When he was 12, Wyll underwent a series of surgeries for a condition called Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, which was caused from his birth defects. “I had to use crutches from age 12 through 16,” said Wyll. “As the body grows, the femurs have growth caps that keep them in the hip. Due to the radiation and birth defects, I didn’t have the cartilage that goes between the growth caps. So, my hips began to literally pop out of my legs. The doctors had to use titanium screws to keep my hips in place.” Without those surgeries, Wyll would have been crippled for life. Because he couldn’t be active during the years when most kids his age were playing sports, he learned to play the guitar. He then went on to learn to play the piano, violin, oboe and other instruments – until he could play just about anything. “I wasn’t as skilled with some of them as I was with others,” said Wyll. “But I could play any of them well enough to accompany other musicians. My mom and all of my uncles played instruments and sang. I inherited my musical talent from them, and woodworking from Grandpa.” When Wyll was 19 he signed up to travel with a Renaissance fair, where booths were made to look like 110

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medieval English buildings. “It was a festival where people sell everything from swords to clothes. I had a trade without realizing it. My grandfather had not only taught me woodworking skills, I had learned using antique tools,” he said. People would stand for long periods of time just to watch Wyll work with the tools from the past. When a festival ended, Wyll continued building pieces of furniture and other wood objects to sell at the next festival. “I was constantly doing woodwork,” he said. While it was work Wyll loved, he said he always wanted to try his hand at playing music professionally. When he left his job with the Renaissance fair, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he was signed by major recording label RTS Records. He worked and performed as a musician and singer, and became the front man in a metal band called Carotid in 2003. But in 2010 a tragedy once again changed the direction of Wyll’s life. “The drummer of our band died unexpectedly,” he said. “It was a very difficult time for me because we had been friends for a long time. I couldn’t stay in Nashville any longer, and the group disbanded.” Wyll was looking for a new start when he visited a friend living in Savannah. “I immediately loved the area,” he said. “I had often thought about buying my own sailboat and working on seaworthy boats like my family had done for centuries.” Wyll moved to Savannah and bought a sailboat, which was also his home. He was quickly hired by Hinckley Yacht Works. In 2014, Wyll became friends with Scott Burgess, a sea captain at Bull River Marina who captained a Palmer Johnson 90-foot sloop named Aria. “He was preparing to sail to Thailand,” said Wyll. “I was trying to recover from a recent failed marriage, so when he asked me if I wanted to make the trip with him across the Pacific, I immediately agreed.” After resigning from his job at Hinckley, Wyll set sail aboard the Aria in March 2015 for a trip that he said, “helped me rediscover myself.” One rainy evening in October, two weeks after returning from his trip across the Pacific, Wyll had turned the TV on to check the weather. When the news showed a large Tall Ship had docked on River Street, he was intrigued. He jumped on his motorcycle and headed down to River Street to see it for himself. “On my way there, I had a strange feeling that I was going to be on that boat,” said Wyll. “If I had realized that it was Spanish El Galeon Andalucia, a special vessel among the Tall Ships, I would have

dismissed that thought immediately. The previous year I had toured that very ship. At that time, I was told that only Spanish sailors were allowed to work as the crew on it. I had driven there in the rain so I paid the $10 to tour it again.” According to Sail Training International’s website, “a Tall Ship is a traditionally-rigged sailing vessel. Modern Tall Ship rigs include topsail schooners, brigantines, brigs and bargues.” While touring the boat, Wyll met a man named Roger who traveled with the Galeon. As they talked, Wyll told him about his recent trip across the Pacific. When Roger learned that Wyll was also a carpenter, “He told me that the regular carpenter on the Galeon had just sailed back to Spain because his visa had expired. The Galeon was without a carpenter.” Since that rainy night in Savannah, Wyll has made three voyages on the Galeon as the main carpenter, one of them across the Atlantic. “I was one of the first Americans in 300 years to be allowed to sail on the Spanish Galeon to Spain from America,” said Wyll. The ship is part of the Nao Victoria Foundation, the world’s largest fleet and builder of Tall Ships. Wyll is now the Master Sailing Carpenter for the entire fleet of Nao Victoria Foundation ships. When he’s not on the water, the majority of his time is spent in his wood shop called Wyllville Wood Craft. “It’s been a long time coming,” said Wyll. “This shop is a culmination of my life, which I see as a gift passed down to me from my forefathers.” Wyll recently built a mast for the 57-foot schooner Cassiopeia. “Among other things at Wyllville, I build wooden schooners, masts, cross trees, spars and blocks,” he said. Whether traveling on Tall Ships, yachts or driving across country – as he did in 2017 when he drove to Texas to help people rebuild after Hurricane Harvey – Wyll is most content when he returns home to Savannah and to his very own Wyllville.  CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story by D. Annette Sasser

Photos by Dream Weaver Photos

When I stepped through the front door of Friendship Coffee Company, the aroma of fresh coffee beans beckoned me into this lovely space where brewed coffees and delicious food are served alongside a community-focused atmosphere and high quality service. Friendship Coffee Company, situated neatly alongside other small businesses in a strip mall on Johnny Mercer Boulevard on Wilmington Island, might go unnoticed if it weren’t for the large, attractive sign co-owners Gay P. Fortson and Elizabeth “Libby” Miller have erected above the shop. “We are excited about our coffee company and what we offer here,” said Gay, who’s lived in Savannah since she was a teen. “I’ve been an entrepreneur all my life and the coffee shop is a dream come true.” Gay and Libby already had been close friends for 20plus years when circumstances would propel them toward a more formal partnership. “Libby’s brother, Scott Miller, owned and operated the Ogeechee River Coffee Company

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friendship Coffee

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on Habersham Street,” Gay said. “Scott was an excellent roaster. Libby and I started helping her brother simply because we enjoyed being in the coffee shop so much. When Libby’s brother passed away from an unexpected illness in early 2013, Libby and I continued to help Scott’s wife and their mother with the coffee shop.” In addition to helping at the coffee shop, Libby was working full-time as a teacher. “From the time my brother passed away until my mom and sister-in-law closed the coffee shop, Gay and I worked there in wholesale,” said Libby, a Savannah

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native. “I was teaching school, and Gay would call me with questions. She was trying to do all the wholesale orders, and I would run from Marshpoint all the way out to the Ogeechee shop as soon as I got off work to help fill the orders. And I would be there until late at night.” For Scott’s wife and mother, the trauma of his sudden death took its toll, and so after six months they decided to sell the shop. “After it sold, we really missed it,” said Libby. “One day I said to Gay, ‘You were the one taking care of the accounting. And you and I both love

“Our coffee company is a community place of friendship. We have some patrons who come in nearly every day, and we love what we’ve built here for our community of friends.” this business. Why don’t we open our own coffee shop?’ ” They tested the waters by selling coffee wholesale at the farmer’s market in Savannah in 2013. “The gentleman who roasted for my brother’s shop after he died agreed to roast for us. We bought a great roaster, purchased green coffee beans, and we were in business,” Libby said. That same year, Gay and Libby tried bottling a special cold brew blend and were picked as finalists in a Flavor of Georgia beverage competition held in Atlanta. “It wasn’t the sweet and creamy cold brew, which is our favorite,” said Gay. “It was the plain, smooth black brew.” “We were really excited to be finalists,” added Libby. “It was the first time we’d tried to make cold brew, and the competition was super fun.” Encouraged, the business partners went to Atlanta to pitch their product to buyers. “In September 2013 we introduced the cold brew to the public,” said Libby. Business quickly got hectic as the partners ventured out. “I live on a cul-de-sac,” said Gay. “Somehow, an 18-wheeler managed to circle through there and drop off a pallet of 10 huge bags of coffee on my doorstep

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every week. I used my dad’s dolly to wrestle the bags inside. The walls still have nicks from those days.” Gay and Libby got a break when a friend let them use her kitchen at Thrive Catering. After the friend moved to the kitchen at St. Andrew’s School, they were able to use that much larger kitchen as well. “We had gotten an account with Whole Foods and also another large food chain store, which included stores all the way up past Atlanta. Before long, we were doing so much business we nearly pushed our friend out of her kitchen,” said Libby. When a distributor failed to timely deliver their cold brew to one major food store, Gay and Libby lost the account. “The cold brew has to stay cold,” said Gay. “When a whole pallet of coffee didn’t get put in the refrigerator soon enough, it went bad.”

Gay and Libby got a break when a friend let them use her kitchen at Thrive Catering. After the friend moved to the kitchen at St. Andrew’s School, they were able to use that much larger kitchen as well. “We had gotten an account with Whole Foods and also another large food chain store, which included stores all the way up past Atlanta. Before long, we were doing so much business we nearly pushed our friend out of her kitchen,” said Libby.

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Gay and Libby already had been close friends for 20-plus years when circumstances would propel them toward a more formal partnership.

That’s when the partners decided to take a step back to contemplate their work. “We realized that shipping to other places had become too much of a hassle,” said Libby, who continues to work in education. “We decided to do what we knew we could do here in Savannah, and that was brewing the product fresh and delivering it personally to make sure it was in good condition.” When the Georgia Department of Agricultural notified Gay and Libby that they would have to begin operating from their own kitchen, the two started looking for an appropriate building. “We looked downtown and other places, but we kept eyeing this one location on Wilmington Island,” said Gay. Eventually, Gay and Libby decided it was right place for their company. “We were here a year doing strictly wholesale before we opened to the public,” said Libby. “We made a bottling plan and began producing thousands of fresh bottles of cold brew at a time.” Three months later, they agreed to allow the public into the front room to purchase products such as packaged coffee bags, bottles of cold brew, cinnamon rolls, crumb cakes and chicken biscuits. One day, Gay’s mother was minding the shop while Gay was making deliveries and Libby was teaching. “I returned to find Hometown Living At Its Best

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my mom had pulled out the chairs and made a small sitting area for customers. And there were people sitting around talking and drinking coffee,” Gay said. When Libby came in later that day, Gay’s mom met her at the door. “ ‘Don’t be mad at me,” she said. “I didn’t know what she had done,” said Libby. “Then I saw the people. They were in the little sitting area drinking coffee, laughing and talking. It looked so cozy and lovely. And I realized it was meant to be.” Today, Friendship Coffee Company continues to specialize in hot and cold beverages, breakfast and lunch food and other delicious desserts. “We’ve progressively changed our business as we’ve needed to,” said Gay. “We continue to do wholesaling, but we also sell to individuals, restaurants and bars.” The coffee shop also has a small stage and is equipped with a sound system. They sponsor a musical show with

Gay and Libby remain passionate about what they do at Friendship Coffee Company. They want Savannah residents to know that there is a place on Wilmington Island that provides free Internet services, specializes in gourmet coffees, serves delicious food and much more.

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popular recording artist Debi Scott the first weekend of the month. The last Saturday of the month, they host a comedy show with regional and local performers. “We also rent the facilities to groups for various meetings and activities,” said Libby. Groups and events range from birthday parties and Bible studies to baby showers and weddings. Groups can have food provided by Friendship Coffee upon request. Gay and Libby remain passionate about what they do at Friendship Coffee Company. They want Savannah residents to know that there is a place on Wilmington Island that provides free Internet services, specializes in gourmet coffees, serves delicious food and much more. “Serving the community is really important to us,” said Gay. “Our coffee company is a community place of friendship. We have some patrons who come in nearly every day, and we love what we’ve built here for our community of friends.”  CCL

Friendship Coffee Company 205 Johnny Mercer Blvd., Wilmington Island Hours: 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday For more information about monthly shows and facility rental, call 912-631-9544 or visit friendshipcoffeecompany.com.

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Photo credit: Les Wilkes

Where compassion and expertise come together

L - R: Cynthia Carter, MD, Medical Director, Hospice Savannah, Inc.; Julia Johnson, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer, Hospice Savannah, Inc.; Laura Farless, MD, Medical Director, Steward Center for Palliative Care

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Story By David Pena | Photos By Dream Weaver Photos

A World War II veteran reflects on his illustrious military career and one harrowing adventure that nearly ended his life.

In our volatile and chaotic world, it appears that our society needs heroes now more than ever before. Their presence in our lives seems to help balance out the injustices that often plague our society. It’s not very often that we get a chance to encounter a real-life hero, but patrons of the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum in Pooler had the opportunity to do just that. For the first 10 years of its operation, retired Col. James S. Munday volunteered every week at the museum as a guide. Heather Thies, the museum’s director of education, says, “Colonel Munday was always incredibly interactive

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with our guests, giving details about the role that the Eighth Air Force played in World War II as well as his own fascinating experiences.” And oh, what tales he had to tell. Born and raised in southern Illinois, James Stanley Munday had a fascination with locomotives from an early age. The boy even hoped to become an engineer one day. That is, until one fateful afternoon when he witnessed an amazing event. “I was walking near my home when I saw an airplane coming in low over a field nearby,” he recalls. “The pilot’s engine was smoking, and I knew he was in big trouble.” Munday ran about 50 paces to where the plane crash landed. Thankfully, he found the pilot alive, albeit shaken up and covered in oil. From that point on, the young man was determined to become a pilot. Thus, barely into his teens, Munday began taking flying lessons from his friend Harold “Fuzz” Galbraith in a 1928

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Waco 10 biplane – and he was hooked. Emboldened by two cousins who had returned from World War I, the young pilot joined the Air Force in January 1942. When World War II began, Munday completed his flight training and quickly emerged as a Second Lieutenant, commanding the crew of a B-24 bomber. He and his men were immediately assigned to a base in England, but before they could leave for overseas duty, the Air Force commandeered his squadron’s B-24s for anti-submarine duty, switching Munday and his men instead to a B-17 bomber. With only a few hours to get acquainted with the plane’s controls, Munday and his crew were ferrying their own B-17 over to the 384th Bomb Group at Grafton Underwood, England, which would be their base for the duration of the war. After six successful missions, the crew’s seventh flight took place on Bastille Day – July 14, 1943. It would prove to be an

THE BEGINNING OF HIS JOURNEY

Emboldened by two cousins who had returned from World War I, the young pilot joined the Air Force in January 1942. When World War II began, Munday completed his flight training and quickly emerged as a Second Lieutenant, commanding the crew of a B-24 bomber.

unforgettable and harrowing experience. Their mission was to help liberate a city outside of Paris from German occupation. Unfortunately, Munday’s plane was assigned the unenviable position of flying in the lower rear part of the formation, often known as “Purple Heart Corner” due to its extremely vulnerable location. After successfully bombing nearby enemy factories and a Nazi-occupied airbase outside Paris, the formation headed back to the base. On the way, Munday suspected they would likely face engagement in the Nazi-controlled skies. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, his formation was attacked by a group of German FW-190 fighter planes. During the exchange, Munday was badly wounded in the leg by machine gun fire, and soon the plane was being torn apart. Forced to slowly leave the formation due to taking excessive hits, Munday quickly realized that his bomber was doomed. He tried his best to keep it airborne, but

despite his efforts, excessive damage to the plane forced him to order his crew to bail out. “Only two of my engines were working (out of four), and one was on fire, so it took all I had to keep it up while they bailed,” he says. When every crew member had jumped, Munday followed suit under a shower of bullets from enemy fighters. Remarkably, a lone German fighter flew right under Munday at about 1,000 feet. “I was expecting him to fire on me, but he just gave a small wave. He was probably out of ammo, and was so close I could see his mustache,” Munday says. Landing in a grove of trees near the French village of Les Essarts-le-Roi, Munday’s back and left leg were badly injured by shrapnel, and he was severely cut by a tree branch. Luckily, he was soon helped out of the tree by a young French boy named Alex Gotovsky, who hid Munday’s parachute and directed him to a hiding place in the forest. Munday hid there for three days,

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surviving on blackberries and water from a nearby stream until eventually getting help from a farmer and his wife, who tended his severe wounds and turned him over to the French Resistance. He was then taken to Paris, where he spent three months recovering in a Resistance worker’s apartment. After his recuperation, the Resistance’s network sent him to Southern France, where he met up with a guide and a group of fellow evaders to secretly make their way over the Pyrenees Mountains to Spain. Equipped with forged identity papers, Munday was disguised as a French surveyor. If he were caught, he would have been shot dead as a spy. One day, he was captured by German forces in Paris and forced to shine the soldiers’ boots for hours in an enemy garrison. However, with the aid of an old French woman, he managed to escape undetected. “You think I’d have been terrified, but my concern was just getting to Spain; I really didn’t have time to be afraid,” he says. Traveling at night by foot, the long journey led him over the Pyrenees to Barcelona, then to Madrid and

A RETURN TO FRANCE In 1997, Munday returned to the French village of Les Essarts-le-Roi, where he was awarded a medal and given a hero’s welcome. He also was reunited with Alex Gotovsky, the young boy who helped him hide from the Nazis more than 50 years ago. He was pleased to learn that Alex was now a celebrated cellist with the Paris Philharmonic Orchestra.

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finally to Gibraltar, where he could secure a flight back to his base in England. Unfortunately, the wound on his knee reopened during the trip, and his guide was forced to leave Munday behind to complete the trip on his own. After four grueling months, he eventually made it to Spain and the British Consulate. Back in Illinois, Munday’s family received a telegram stating he was missing in action after his plane crashed. The family didn’t receive word about his whereabouts until after he reached Spain. Thankfully, Munday returned home and was reunited with his family on Christmas Eve 1943. Thus began an amazing military career that would take Munday through duty in the Pacific Ocean, “hurricane hunting” over the Atlantic Ocean, and finally into the ranks of the Strategic Air Command, where he would spend the remainder of his distinguished military service. In those years, he flew every type of bomber that the Air Force possessed, becoming a Command Pilot and advancing to the rank of Colonel. In 1997, Munday returned to the French village of Les Essartsle-Roi, where he was awarded a medal and given a hero’s welcome. He also was reunited with Alex Gotovsky, the young boy who helped him hide from the Nazis more than 50 years ago.

He was pleased to learn that Alex was now a celebrated cellist with the Paris Philharmonic Orchestra. Munday celebrated his 100th birthday in October 2015 at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, where he had spent so much time as a volunteer. “There were over 100 people there along with my family and we had a ball. It was the biggest party I’d ever seen,” he says. Now residing in Azalealand Nursing Facility, Munday stays busy by writing and keeping up with his two daughters, Nancy and Betty. “He is a pure delight,” says administrator Deborah Orne. “He always sees the good in others.” In 2014, Munday chronicled his amazing life story in his book, “Silver Wings, Titanium Feathers.” “I’ve always kept notes about my life since high school, so I guess it came in pretty handy,” he says. When asked about his heroic exploits, he shrugs and adds, “I was just doing my job.” Mission accomplished, sir. Our country is indebted to you and all of our veterans. Sadly, Colonel Munday passed away after this article was written. We are honored to be able to share Colonel Munday’s story and thank him for his service to our great nation.  CCL

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Story by D. Annette Sasser Photos by Rebecca Galloway Photography

time to The Savannah Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre delights young and old with performances all year long.

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Savannah Children’s Theatre continues to offer after-school classes for pre-K through first grade, second through fifth grades, and sixth through eighth grades. “Some people don’t realize that we also have a really active and wonderful teenage program for ninth through twelfth grades called the Junior Company,” said Kelie.

Like most children and many adults, I love “Beauty and the Beast.” Since its 17th century written conception, the timeless story has been performed in countless musicals, stage performances and films, including Disney’s most recent live action movie in 2017. Recently, I had the honor of watching the story unfold in a local production as talented children and teenagers – along with a few adults – performed the centuries-old fairy tale under the training and direction of Artistic Director Kelie Miley and Choreographer and Associate Director Jenn Doubleday at the Savannah Children’s Theatre. Jenn Doubleday remembers swinging in her backyard when her mother came out to ask if she would like to be in a play. “My mother knew that I needed a creative outlet,” said Jenn. “I said, ‘Sure.’ I was 7 at the time and was always performing plays in my backyard. My parents owned a technical theater company, so I was raised in the arts. I knew about everything from sound and lighting to production design. I grew up experiencing all types of performances.” Jenn auditioned for a part in a Peter Pan production and discovered she was a natural. “It was my first stage production and

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Today, the Savannah Children’s Theatre has an average of 100 children every day who come with their schools from Chatham County as well as nearby counties such as Liberty, Bulloch, Toombs, Hampton, Effingham, Beaufort and Ridgeland, to take part in the 10 a.m.-noon field trip program. “We’ve had as many as 250,” said Kelie. “By the time this school year is over, we will have conducted close to 180 field trips involving some 14,000 children.”

I was excited to be cast as a ‘lost boy,’ ” she said. The Peter Pan production was performed under the direction of Kelie Miley, who had recently gone to work with the City of Savannah Department of Leisure Services, where she also ran the theater department. “Even as a young child, Jenn was extremely gifted,” said Kelie. “She continued to tour with my theater troupe during her high school years.” Kelie’s theater career also began as a young girl. She took classes and performed with the Little Theatre, which was located on Gwinnett Street in Savannah. “I continued performing during high school at St. Vincent – and I loved it,” said Kelie. After high school, Kelie moved to Valdosta where she earned a degree in theater. She then moved to California for more theatrical training and worked in a few children’s theaters there. In 1993, after 13 years, Kelie returned to Savannah with a dream to eventually open a children’s theater. 146

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“Kelie and I had remained friends over the years and one day I got a phone call from her asking me to meet with her over Mexican food,” said Jenn. “At the restaurant, she said, ‘I want to start a children’s theater and I would like you to work with me. You grew up in theater and you have a unique perspective. What do you say?’ ” Jenn immediately agreed, and with help from family members, friends and other theater enthusiasts, the nonprofit Savannah Children’s Theatre opened its doors in spring 2004. “I am happy to have Jenn as a co-worker,” said Kelie. “She is an extraordinary choreographer, which I discovered when she was very young. I did a lot of dance growing up, but I am not a teacher of dance. As a kid, Jenn would see what I was doing and teach it to the others. Her leadership skills were always evident.” The children’s theater began by offering a field trip program to pre-k through eighth grade students. “The

grateful As a nonprofit corporation, the Savannah Children’s Theatre has patrons and volunteers who keep the theater active and able to accomplish its many goals. “We are grateful for all of them,” said Kelie.

field trip was Kelie’s brainchild, and a really unique program,” said Jenn. “When most children’s theaters conduct field trips, it means that the kids go out to see a show instead of doing a show. Kelie’s initial idea was to bring in several children through a field trip program that teaches the kids to participate in the show from beginning to end – auditioning, rehearsing and performing for an audience, all within a two-hour time frame.” By using curriculum-based musicals, Kelie’s idea was to educate children in social studies, history, science, language arts and character education. With each of the curriculum-based plays, the children are divided into smaller groups and given parts to learn. “After they perform, they join the audience as a spectator for the rest of the play,” Kelie said. When the Savannah Children’s Theatre first opened in 2004, they used the Savannah Ballet facilities for their field trip program. Later that fall, Trinity Hometown Living At Its Best

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“We added a Wednesday creative adventure class, which is made up of 4-, 5- and 6-year-olds,” said Jenn. “Instead of scripted material, they do creative play, which is acting out stories in books, making puppets, facemasks and things like that.”

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United Methodist Church downtown offered the group the use of its church building and they were able to add an after-school class for children in pre-K through eighth grade. “There were from five to eight kids per class in the first year,” said Kelie. “By the second year, we had expanded to 40 kids. We had grown so much my husband began looking around for a larger place.” At first, Kelie was skeptical when he suggested the old Belk’s building on Victory Drive. “But the owners were kind and community-minded, and it turned out to be the perfect space,” she said. The mission statement, written by Kelie, sets the tone for everything at the Savannah Children’s Theatre: “We are here to inspire, to educate and to entertain.”

“We are here to inspire, to educate and to entertain.” With enough room for a large foyer, box office, concession stand, proscenium theater, black box, and a dance and costume space, the new building made it possible for the children’s theater to expand. “We added a Wednesday creative adventure class, which is made up of 4, 5 and 6-year-olds,” said Jenn. “Instead of scripted material, they do creative play, which is acting out stories in books, making puppets, facemasks and things like that.” Savannah Children’s Theatre continues to offer afterschool classes for pre-K through first grade, second through fifth grades, and sixth through eighth grades. “Some people don’t realize that we also have a really active and wonderful teenage program for ninth through twelfth grades called the Junior Company,” said Kelie. “Just recently, a high school senior girl who interns here was mourning over the fact that she did not know about us earlier.” Although there is tuition involved for all classes, scholarships are available for everything the theater offers – including its popular summer camp. The summer camp program is offered to children and teens in pre-K through

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twelfth grade. “The camp is condensed into a twoweek period,” said Jenn. “We start at the end of May, when school ends, and go until the end of July. The kids audition for a show, rehearse, make props, create costumes and paint sets. They take music, acting and dance lessons and perform for the public. The kids are here from 9 to 5, which makes for a long day, but it’s an amazing program. They live in this little island of musical theater we have created here and have a really immersive experience.” Children come from all over Savannah and its surrounding counties to take part in the summer camp. “Our summer camp program includes kids who come from out of town,” said Jenn. “They come and stay with grandparents or other family members during the summer to participate. We only get to see them for the two weeks that they come for summer camp. It’s always a happy, exciting reunion.” The children’s theater performs about 15 shows per year, nine of which happen during the course of the summer. “We do three called ‘Kids on Stage’ with second through twelfth grade students. Twice a year, we do casting for grown-ups who want to come out to play,” laughed Jenn. “We do age-appropriate casting for plays like ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ The kids are still involved and able to work alongside wonderful, talented adults in the community – many of whom hold degrees in opera or performance.” Today, the Savannah Children’s Theatre has an average of 100 children every day who come with their schools from Chatham County as well as nearby counties such as Liberty, Bulloch, Toombs, Hampton, Effingham, Beaufort and Ridgeland, to take part in the 10 a.m.-noon field trip program. “We’ve had as many as 250,” said Kelie. “By the time this school year is over, we will have conducted close to 180 field trips involving some 14,000 children.” As a nonprofit corporation, the Savannah Children’s Theatre has patrons and volunteers who keep the theater active and able to accomplish its many goals. “We are grateful for all of them,” said Kelie. As I sat in the darkened theater and watched the performance of “Beauty and the Beast,” I was already anticipating the next year filled with shows by the Savannah Children’s Theatre.  CCL

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Story by D. Annette Sasser Photos by Dream Weaver Photos and the Bartlett Family

lasting legacy Southern belle, Evelyn Bartlett, at age 92, is a gracious lady with a sharp mind, quick wit and a melodious laugh and understands the greatest gift of all is family and love.

In June of 1944, Evelyn “Ev” Marvin, a lovely Southern belle who lived on the Mackey Point plantation in Yemassee, South Carolina, met a handsome, young Navy aviator, Edward “Ed” J. Bartlett, from California. It was a defining moment, a destined encounter that set the two upon a course that would eventually lead them to Savannah, where the Bartlett name would become an icon – a lasting symbol of love for family and for community. Ed was born Sept. 22, 1921, in Los Angeles, California. He was in college when World War II broke out. Ed joined the Navy and trained as an aviator in Corpus Christi, Texas. After spending time in the Atlantic Theater, he was sent to the Beaufort Naval Air Station in Beaufort, South Carolina, a short distance from Yemassee. Ev was born in South Carolina on July 28, 1925, the youngest of five siblings. “I was Southern through and through,” said Ev. In the summer of 1944, Ev said there were a lot of military personnel coming into Beaufort from all over the U.S., which resulted in a lack of military housing in Beaufort. “We had a couple of little cottages on the plantation in Yemassee, so my daddy fixed them up and two military couples lived there. They kept telling me about all the good-looking, eligible pilots in their

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squadron, and one day they brought one home to meet me.” Ev was not at home when young Ed visited, but her father invited him and the cottage couples to come back later that evening. “When Ed and I first met, we talked easily about all kinds of things,” said Ev. “But when I asked him where he was from and he said California, I thought, ‘Oh my goodness.’” After dinner, Ev walked with Ed and the couples back to the cottages where they visited awhile longer before he walked her back home. When Ev told her father that Ed was planning to sleep on the floor in one of the cottages that night, she said her father got out of bed and went straight to the cottage. “We had two extra bedrooms, and my daddy insisted that Ed spend the night with us. He told Ed, ‘You’re not sleeping on the floor and that’s that.’ The next morning, we fixed him breakfast. That was the beginning of it all,” Ev laughed. In the fall, Ev returned to Coker College, in Hartsville, South Carolina, while Ed remained stationed in Beaufort. “Ed came up to the college to see me a couple of times,” said Ev. “It was difficult because he didn’t have a car and had to ride the bus. We were together when I came home for Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

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Ed and Ev were married for 60 years before he passed away March 29, 2005. But the Bartlett legacy lives on through his many community accomplishments, and through his influence on the lives of his loving family. Nine months from their initial meeting, on March 23, 1945, Ed and Ev were married. Soon after, Ed was transferred back to the West Coast. “Ed sent me ahead to California to stay with his mom until he arrived,” said Ev. “I had to change planes in Washington. Here was a young girl who had never left South Carolina, scared, flying alone across country to Los Angeles, California. It was not a fun trip.” Nevertheless, Ev was soon enjoying time with Ed’s mother. “She was so good to me,” said Ev. “She’s the one who taught me how to cook.” After the war, Ed returned to college and graduated from the University of Southern

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California. They remained in California where two of their three daughters were born: Susan in 1947 and Karen in 1950. Ed taught in the secondary division of the Los Angeles school system for three years. Karen was only 6 months old when tragedy struck. Ev was unexpectedly diagnosed with tuberculosis and had to be quarantined for 18 months in a sanitarium, a medical facility for patients with long-term illnesses. “Karen had to stay with my oldest sister, who lived in Savannah,” said Ev. “Susan stayed in California with Ed and his mother. When I was well enough to leave the sanitarium, the doctor

devotion to community Ed served on countless boards and committees in Savannah including 10 years as chairman of the board for Candler Hospital. He was an education advocate and served three terms as president of the Savannah-Chatham Board of Public Education. Bartlett Junior High School, now the STEM Academy at Bartlett, was named for him.

advised us that we should move because even at that time the air quality in California was so bad.” Ev said one reason they chose Savannah was because she’d visited there quite often as a child, having grown up only 60 miles away in South Carolina. “Also, my sister had married a doctor in Savannah and she lived there. So rather than move to a new place, we decided to move south to be closer to my family,” she said. Ed was quickly hired by Union Bag & Paper Corporation (International Paper) as training director. But because Savannah was a small, Southern town at the time, and the family was used to life in the big city, Ed decided to move them back to California. “But they

missed him at Union Bag,” laughed Ev. “They kept calling him and practically begging him to come back.” When they made an offer he couldn’t refuse, Ed packed up and moved his family back to Savannah, where their third daughter, Faye, was born in 1956. It was not only the Union Bag and Paper Corporation that benefitted from Ed’s ingenuity and drive. “He always said that you should give back to the community more than you take from it – and he did,” said Ev. He gave back so much, in fact, that in May 1961, Ed became the 11th recipient of the Golden Deeds Award. Among his many

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accomplishments was being instrumental in bringing Goodwill Industries of the Coastal Empire to Savannah, and serving as its first president in 1965. Ed served on countless boards and committees in Savannah including 10 years as chairman of the board for Candler Hospital. He was an education advocate and served three terms as president of the Savannah-Chatham Board of Public Education. Bartlett Junior High School, now the STEM Academy at Bartlett, was named for him. “Daddy couldn’t have done all that he did without

“Daddy couldn’t have done all that he did without Mother,” said their daughter Susan Bartlett, a retired administrator. “He worked outside the home but she worked at home. And she was always there when we got home. That made a big difference.”

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In 2015, when Ev’s daughters asked her what she wanted for her 90th birthday, her answer was simple. She wanted all of her family together, her daughters and their families, which includes five grandsons, four great-granddaughters and one great-grandson.

Mother,” said their daughter Susan Bartlett, a retired administrator. “He worked outside the home but she worked at home. And she was always there when we got home. That made a big difference.” Daughter Karen Bartlett, a retired registered nurse who lives with her mother, agreed: “She always made sure we did our homework before we could play outside.” In fact, the Bartletts had a unique way of enhancing their daughters’ education. “Every other year, we would take a long road trip to California,” said Susan. “We went a different route every time and saw all of the national parks. Mother would make sandwiches for us to eat along the way, and we’d stop and throw a blanket out somewhere for a picnic lunch. Then, we’d be off to the next national park. And whenever we stopped for the night, it would have to be a motel with a swimming pool.” “We didn’t know until later that Daddy insisted on a swimming pool, because he knew that we had been caged up in the car and needed to release energy,” said Karen. “He played water polo for Southern California, and was our swim coach.”

Despite his busy schedule, Ed always made time to spend holidays and vacations with his wife and children. Ed and Ev were married for 60 years before he passed away March 29, 2005. But the Bartlett legacy lives on through his many community accomplishments, and through his influence on the lives of his loving family. Today, at age 92, Ev is a gracious lady with a sharp mind, quick wit and a melodious laugh. It is easy to see how a young Ed became dazzled by her outward and inward beauty and charm. “Mother and Daddy instilled in us the importance of family. We are still close,” said Karen. “We will drop whatever we’re doing if needed to support one another.” In 2015, when Ev’s daughters asked her what she wanted for her 90th birthday, her answer was simple. She wanted all of her family together, her daughters and their families, which includes five grandsons, four great-granddaughters and one great-grandson. Her gift was a reminder that the greatest gift of all is family and love.  CCL

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Pooler...

Come to visit, stay for a lifetime. See what Pooler has to offer.

The closest interstate connection to Historic Savannah, Georgia and the Tybee beaches

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Hello from YOUR Pooler Chamber of Commerce. We hope all of you who attended the Patriot Picnic in the Park enjoyed this day. The chamber was proud to have sponsored the fun rides for this city event honoring military and our public safety heroes. Also, the Pooler Chamber of Commerce, presented the Pooler Inaugural Food Truck Fest event. It was a delicious and exciting success and an opportunity to sample all the diverse collection of food from all our favorite vendors. We look forward to hosting future Food Truck events in the future, so stay tuned! Summer is behind us, and we are so looking forward to cooler days and the crisp, colorful autumn season. To rev up the season, we have been very busy preparing our exciting fall events. We know how to throw a party, and on October 27th , you are invited to the Pooler Fall Festival and Marketplace . Held at the Football Stadium behind the YMCA on Pooler Parkway, there will be kid-friendly activities, games for all ages, specialty vendors and, of course, great food. Speaking of specialty vendors we still have a few spots available. This is a perfect opportunity to promote your business and be part of this great family day. Come November, we will be hosting a Health Fair to be held at the new Courtyard by Marriott next to IHop on November 10. What better way to celebrate life than to live in good health. At this event, health affiliated vendors and professionals will provide information, consultations and demonstrations on healthy living. This event is free to the public, and we hope to see you there. These are just a few of the events we present throughout the year that are opportunities for you to grow your networks, gain insights and address challenges facing businesses today. Some events are strictly fun, while others are designed to educate the public on issues such as transportation, business development and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic outlook. We hope you will join other Chamber members who volunteer in Chamber activities and participate in the many other community service organizations in Pooler. Whenever possible, also support our member companies with your business. The Pooler Chamber of Commerce is in the people business and we are committed to nurturing positive relationships within our city. Our residents play a big part in the Pooler community and we thank you for your support of our businesses and events.With the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans for ongoing responsible growth, the future of Pooler seems brighter than ever. We invite you to visit our website www.Poolerchamber.com for information and our facebook for information on upcoming events, new members and other pertinent information. Please stop by our office for coupons and brochures.

Pam Southard Executive Director Pooler Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Inc.

Visit Us Online at poolerchamber.com Like Us On Facebook! Hometown Living At Its Best

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Galloway &

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100 US HW 80, Pooler, GA 31322 (912) 748-7261 | www.pooler-ga.gov

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Come to Pooler .......... 404 Hwy 80 West

• Pooler, GA 31322 • (912)748-0110 • www.poolerchamber.com

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The

Pride of Savannah

Crispy fritters, chewy cookies and delicious donuts and cakes have all made Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pride a popular stop in Savannah for more than three decades.

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Story by David Pena | Photos by Dream Weaver Photos

JoElla Baker has the quiet stoicism of a woman who has seen her share of life and is determined to live it on her own terms. And for good reason: This year marks the 35th anniversary of the opening of her Savannah culinary staple, Baker’s Pride, a business that honors its familial roots. “We tell people when they come to apply to work here, if you can’t be a part of our family, you can’t work here,” said JoElla’s daughter Trisha Lang, who is also a co-owner along with her husband, Al Lang. “We basically end up adopting everyone who works for us. In fact, some of our past employees who ultimately moved on to other jobs have actually returned to work for us, explaining that the rest of the business world doesn’t care about them like we do.”

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“I really didn’t have any doubts about going into business for ourselves because I knew we’d all work hard to make it a success.” { JoElla Baker }

When JoElla opened the popular bakery, along with her daughters Trisha and April, more than three decades ago, she never envisioned the enormous success and impact that her venture would have on the community. “I’m proud to know that the bakery has supported many families throughout the years and it’s given us an opportunity to give something back to this community,” she said about the bakery’s journey. And to think that it all started with an untimely fall from a rooftop. Back in the late 1950s, JoElla’s father, Joseph, ran a successful roofing company. He would often spend long hours each day atop the buildings around the Coastal Empire while her mother, Daisy, oversaw the books for the business. Things took a turn for the worse, however, when Joseph fell off of a downtown roof, breaking nearly every bone in his body. As a result, he was unable to work and support his family, which included five children. Thus, Daisy took it upon herself to

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become the sole breadwinner for the family and took a job at Lee’s Bakery. After spending several successful years there and at other local bakeries, Daisy was able to purchase a house for the family, complete with a “recovery room” for Joseph to recover from his accident. Fast forward to 1981. After JoElla’s husband lost his job as an air traffic controller, like her mother before her, JoElla took the initiative and planned to open a family-run bakery. There was just one hurdle to overcome: JoElla had always been a stay-at-home mom with no work experience. Despite this fact, she was undaunted by the venture. “I really didn’t have any doubts about going into business for ourselves because I knew we’d all work hard to make it a success,” she said. “Success always comes from dedication and hard work.” She was also bolstered by her daughter

Trisha’s faith in her idea right from the start. “Although she was not (experienced in) the business world, my mom has been baking as long as I can remember,” Trisha said. “She would bake for school functions, family gettogethers, and for Bible study groups; it was just part of her DNA.” Along with Daisy’s expertise, a little help from JoElla’s previous place of employment was also key to the initial success of Baker’s Pride. “My grandmother had customers from her respective bakeries follow her (to Baker’s Pride); thus we had a customer base already built into the business when it opened,” Trisha said. “She knew how to take orders, write tickets and what supplies were needed.” Daisy would serve as the front manager, greeting customers as they came in to place their orders. As luck would have it, when Lee’s Bakery

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Baker’s Pride is named after Joseph and Daisy. Honoring family and spending time together at the bakery always has been an important part of the business.

closed, Mr. Lee’s son, Tommy, also shared a number of his father’s recipes with JoElla to help get the business started on the right foot. “It was really trial by fire back then but it was an exciting time for our family,” said Trisha. As for grandfather Joseph, his involvement came soon after the bakery opened, but it was a little slow going at first. “After his accident, my grandfather never talked too much; he basically just kept to himself,” Trisha said. “However, my granny really thought that he needed a purpose, something for him to do to get out of the house.” This turned out to be a wise decision. When Joseph’s injuries had healed enough for him to walk with the use of a cane, he eventually started working at the bakery. He began as a dishwasher and then gradually began wrapping baked goods. He soon shed his taciturn demeanor and began opening up. “He became so talkative that he wouldn’t shut up at that point,” Trisha said with a laugh. “I truly think the bakery saved both my grandparents, to some degree. It gave them a good income as well as a place to go to spend time with their family.” Baker’s Pride is named after Joseph and Daisy. Honoring family and spending time together at the bakery always has been an important part of the business. Hometown Living At Its Best

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“I enjoy working at the bakery because it’s my family’s business and every day offers something different. Whether it’s working on crazy cake orders or helping to make all the goodies for customers, my family and customers make each day enjoyable.” { Joey Blackston }

JoElla and company are still amazed by the intense loyalty and praise that Baker’s Pride has garnered from their customers and are grateful, yet humbled, by the success it has brought to the family.

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Trisha recalls how she and her sister would divide the time between school and the bakery in order to optimize their productivity in the bakery. “My sister and I would go to work in the early morning to do what was needed and then go to school,” she recalled. “After school, we’d walk from Calvary Day School to the bakery and finish our day there. We ended up eating our dinners there. Ultimately, we acquired some other really talented bakers from our competitors to round out our staff.” Gradually, word spread around town about the quality baked goods that could be found in the Kensington Shopping Center on Derenne Avenue. Their relationships forged with numerous area restaurants and businesses are testament to the bakery’s status as a longtime Savannah standard. Now, ask any self-respecting Savannahian with a sweet tooth where to find the best baked goods and you’re likely to be directed to Baker’s Pride. JoElla and company are still amazed by the intense loyalty and praise that Baker’s Pride has garnered from their customers and are grateful, yet humbled, by the success it has brought to the family. “It has supported our families all these years and has provided us with a means

to do what we love while making a comfortable living at it. I’m fortunate because if there’s a school function for one of my kids, I can attend it without any fuss,” Trisha said. JoElla’s great-nephew Joey Blackston, who has worked at the bakery for about three years, said, “I enjoy working at the bakery because it’s my family’s business and every day offers something different. Whether it’s working on crazy cake orders or helping to make all the goodies for customers, my family and customers make each day enjoyable.” JoElla noted that the success of the bakery lies in the quality product and outstanding service that the familyrun business offers each customer. “We have a great product, personal service to each customer, and a love for baking that we all share,” she said. “In the future, I see the same loyalty that we have had in the community continue to grow and our younger generation continuing to operate Baker’s Pride as a family business. What more can you ask for?” Well, a giant chocolate chewy and a crispy fritter, perhaps?  CCL Hometown Living At Its Best

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Carey Hilliardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s T.J. HILLIARD | GENERAL COUNSEL; ASHLEA H. CARSON | COO 11111 ABERCORN ST. | SAVANNAH, GA 31419 | 912.925.2131

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ANATOMIC EXCELLENCE, LLC GRAHAM WHITESIDE 1013 ASHLEY RD SAVANNAH, GA 31410

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They are only this little for a little while, capture them today.

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YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR PRIORITY Paradise Bay Express Car Wash is a state-of-the-art express car wash with free vacuums, monthly memberships, fleet programs, and fundraising opportunities.

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STOP BY AND STAY A WHILE With programs for all ages & abilities, we’re more than a gym. We’re the Y.

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“Treating the whole patient with love and care.” • General Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Implants • Same Day Crowns • Sedation

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Index of Advertisers Alligator Soul ………............................................................……… 6-7

Godley Station ……………................................................… 154-155

Anatomic Excellence, LLC ………........................................……… 180

Habersham House ……...............................................………… 60-61

Andy’s Lawn Machinery …...........................................…………… 179

Horizon Staffing ….......................................................…………… 181

Belzer PC …….............................................................………… 48-49

Hospice Savannah ..................................................……………… 128

Camping World ………...............................................……… 113, 169

HunterMacLean Attorneys …...................................…………… 34-35

Carey Hilliard’s ……........................................................………… 178

Innovative Orthodontics ………..................................……… 101, 154

Case Veterinary Hospital ….........................................…………… 179

J. Parker LTD. ……...............................................................………… 9

Chatham County Living Magazine …...............…………… 72-73, 180

Marche De Macarons …..............................................…………… 151

Chatham Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery ……....................………… 155

More Than Words Photography ……...............................………… 182

Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy ……...............................………… 38-39

Optim Orthopedics ……..............................................………… 20-21

City Market ..............................................................……………… 181

Paradise Bay Express Car Wash ……..............................………… 182

City of Pooler …….......................................................………… 1, 167

Planters Inn …….........................................................………… 84-85

Coastal Canvas Products ………….........................................…… 117

Pooler Chamber of Commerce …………........................…… 164-165

Coastal ENT ...............................................................……………… 70

Pooler Day Spa ……........................................................………… 153

Coldwell Banker Commercial ...............................……………… 36-37

Pooler Pharmacy .....................................................……………… 169

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners …...........................…………… 19

Queensboro National Bank & Trust …...........................…………… 99

Counter Fitters ……...........................................................………… 89

Quick RX Drugs …..........................................................…………… 57

Country Financial ….................................................…………… 46-47

Rebecca Galloway Photography ……..............................………… 112

Cryorecovery Savannah .............................................................. 141

Renewal MD …….........................................................……… 58, 129

Dental Designs of Savannah ……...................................………… 139

Ryan Lee Photography ….............................................…………… 131

Dermatology Associates ……..........................................………… 141

Savannah Floor Covering Co., Inc ……............................………… 168

Dream Weaver Photos ……….............................................……… 140

Savannah Framing Company, Inc. ……...........................………… 100

Dream Weaver Photos 3D Virtual Tours ...................……………… 152

Savannah Pain Management …..................................…………… 115

Duffy & Feemster, LLC …..........................................…………… 86-87

Savannah Square ………................................................……… 22-23

Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates of Savannah, PC ..................... 130

St. Andrew’s School …...........................…………… Inside Back Cover

Endodontic Associates of Savannah ………...............……..… 59, 154

The Center for Digestive & Liver Health ….....................…………… 2-3

Enmarket .................................................................……………… 114

The Savannah Country Day School …………............................…… 88

Freddie Miller Insurance Agency ………..........................……… 46-47

The Whole Tooth Dentistry ………….......................................…… 183

Fyzical Dizziness & Fall Prevention Centers …................…………… 71

Tracy E. Durham DDS P C …................................…………… 155, 168

Galloway & Galloway, PC ................................ 66, Inside Front Cover

Visit Pooler …......................................................…………… 164-169

Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center …............…………… 178

YMCA of Coastal GA ……………................................................… 183

Georgia Southern University …………................…… 138, Back Cover

Zaxby’s ……....................................................................………… 116

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible! 184

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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

BEGINNINGS MATTER “You can accomplish any goal if you take one step at a time.” Cristy Llewellyn Lawrence Director, City of Savannah Capital Projects Management St. Andrew’s Class of ‘91

Age 3 - Grade 12 International Baccalaureate World School

601 Penn Waller Rd, Savannah, GA 31410 | (912) 897-4941 | www.saslions.com

fall 2018

THREE CAMPUSES. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

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GEORGIA’S LARGEST UNIVERSITY SOUTH OF ATLANTA.

Chasing Her Dream

Venezuelan artist proves that it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

Living Life to the Fullest

Lt. Col. Dwyer remains ready to take on life’s challenges, with the emphasis on able.

Helping adults with disabilities to become successful, productive workers in the Coastal Empire for nearly seventy years.

STATESBORO • SAVANNAH • HINESVILLE • ONLINE

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

The Simple Life Wyll Dykstra finds himself most at home in his Savannah wood-working shop.