Coffee County Living - Spring 2023

Coffee COUNTY

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An Unexpected Journey

The Bakers' journey to operating a Chick-fil-A restaurant is a tale of perseverance, patience, isolation, and, of course, faith.

Coffee COUNTY

contents / SPRING I SS ue 2023

90 Shopping in Style

Blair Brawner, owner of Eve Boutique, takes her turn in the family business, helping women express their true selves.

102

The Life of a Rescuer

Until you have looked into the eyes of a tired dog that has been given away and felt their wisdom, you will never understand the life of a rescuer.

114

Over a Century of Service to God

For all of his 102 years, Charles Warnock has tried to emulate the Lord in everything he has done.

80

Fireside Pizza

Daryl Clark and his hard work ethic made the way for him from prep cook to owner of Fireside Pizza.

Tbusiness keeps me positive about life. Every issue of every magazine that we publish gives me the opportunity to learn about awesome people that live in our communities! they share a portion of their lives; the challenges and the victories, love given, love received, being blessed, being rescued, and being a rescuer.

i am truly excited about life! there are so many more people that i am looking forward to meeting and being motivated by.

Charles Warnock was 102 years old when his story was told. he has since decided at 103 it was time to be escorted into the throne room of his father. that excites me for him, but also that i can have at least 28 more years of being motivated by new friends!

romans 4:19

Jay and Patti Martin

sales: (912) 654-3045

Email: jay@wyimpublications.com withyouinmindpublications.com

FightGoodthe Fight

Allison Bramlett, Executive Pastor at Covenant Church, shares the story of the Lord’s power at work in her marriage that turned devastating heartache into heavenly healing.

Story By Alexa Tebben | Photos by Caitlyn Fender Photography

Relationships are not easy. While we are hard wired to love others, we can be assured of the often painfully imperfectness of each relationship.

Allison Bramlett, Executive Pastor at Covenant Church, shares the story of the Lord’s power at work in her marriage that turned devastating heartache into heavenly healing. Earlier this spring, she published her book, Don’t Take It Personally – Real Love Knocks the Hell out of You. The book recounts the incredible freedom Allison found in choosing to keep the love alive in her marriage when all seemed lost.

“The book is for anyone and everyone because we all deal with relationships,” Allison says. Whether you are a spouse, parent, child or trusted friend, Allison’s words speak truth to the importance of loving others as Jesus intended.

In the book, Allison shares details of her childhood and life-long walk with Lord. “I’ve always felt a call to serve Jesus and serve others,” she shares. “When I was a young woman at four and five years old, I used to preach in my bedroom and record myself.”

Allison carried this calling throughout her youth

knowing she would live to share the love of Jesus for all her life. Allison met her husband, Jeff, when she was 14 years old. High school sweethearts, they married shortly after graduation. “Next to Jesus, he has been the love of my life and the only person I have wanted to live with and the only person I have wanted to kill,” she says plainly.

Allison’s relationship with the Lord has remained the foundation of her entire life which has greatly impacted her relationships. When Allison experienced betrayal from Jeff, she turned to Jesus. Trusting in His word and leaning on His strength shaped the outcome of her adversity. “As I’d pray, I’d hear God tell me time and again, ‘Fight for him and not with him.’”

With the encouragement and guidance of the Lord’s Word, Allison committed to loving Jeff as unconditionally and wholeheartedly

While many would shy away from sharing the hurt and betrayals Allison experienced, she was determined to use it for good. Naturally transparent, she sat down to record her experience and the encouragement she received from the Word of God. “When I first wrote it, it was almost like I was writing to myself, my husband and my children,” Allison says. “And then from that I believed it was something other hearts would be touched by.”

Allison Bramlett, Executive Pastor at Covenant Church, shares the story of the Lord’s power at work in her marriage that turned devastating heartache into heavenly healing. Earlier this spring, she published her book, Don’t Take It Personally – Real Love Knocks the Hell out of You. The book recounts the incredible freedom Allison found in choosing to keep the love alive in her marriage when all seemed lost.

as Jesus loves us. In her book, Allison writes, “Because Jesus is my first love, it made loving Jeff possible when it should have been humanly and emotionally impossible.”

The Lord allowed Allison to see that issues stemming from Jeff’s childhood traumas were effecting his behavior. With this understanding, she wrote, “When you realize that what someone does that hurts you is not personal and that you are not alone, it will change the way you fight. You will not fight with feelings, but you will begin to fight the good fight with faith… Stand (and fight) on the promises of God.”

Allison encourages her readers to see the person and the situation you are in with the eyes of God’s heart in you. “Choose to love the person that has offended and hurt you. Then let your behavior and mouth reflect that choice,” she writes wisely.

When you focus on truth and perfect love, the hell around you becomes far more bearable. Though rarely easy, imitating the Lord’s forgiveness and love for others in turn brings healing to our own hearts.

To reach this point, we need to first adopt a heavenly perspective. “I believe there is treasure and trash in everyone,” Allison says. “When we look through the eyes of love and faith, we are able to be a treasure hunter instead of a trash inspector – which I believe is much more of a God venture.”

The way we choose to see others ultimately influences our actions toward them and feelings for them. In her book, Allison writes, “The way you think about things is what forms your habits, which forms your character, which forms your destiny.” In determining to change your perspective, you will eventually experience a change of heart.

We are urged in Ephesians 4:32 to forgive one another as God in Christ has forgiven us. “Forgiveness and love are not suggestions from

God, they’re commandments,” Allison says. “But we cannot do them in our own will. We have to do them with the help of the Holy Spirit.” Through prayer and with the Holy Spirit, we can more easily walk in the ways God has set for us and experience breakthroughs with our obedience.

“I have always held at-home bible studies [and have] been involved in church ministries,” Allison shares. Having served in nurseries, youth ministries and women’s groups, Allison has shared the love of Jesus with people in all walks of life. “Over time, God began to flourish the seeds that began in my heart.”

Allison followed the call on her life to become a pastor at Covenant Church and has loved every step of the journey. Most recently, Allison began starring on 106.3 The Tree radio station alongside Matt Baldridge. An unscripted show, their daily mission is to encourage listeners through the Word of God. “We play Christian music, talk about local things that are happening and pray for people that call in,” she says.

While many would shy away from sharing the hurt and betrayals Allison experienced, she was determined to use it for good. Naturally transparent, she sat down to record her experience and the encouragement she

received from the Word of God. “When I first wrote it, it was almost like I was writing to myself, my husband and my children,” Allison says. “And then from that I believed it was something other hearts would be touched by.”

And she was right. In the short time since its publication, Don’t Take It Personally has been healing hearts and helping readers walk in freedom. “I have had amazing responses from young adults that say they want to learn how to be a friend, to people that are dealing with addiction. They’re learning to forgive things that happened in their youth, forgive themselves, receive the love of God and fall more in love with Jesus.”

Although living out the Word of God is not easy, it is rewarding and incredibly life changing. Allison has found peace in living for Jesus and complete joy in helping others do the same.

As stated in her book, Allison says, “I believe that you can experience intimacy with Jesus far beyond what you can imagine and, as a result, any pain you have endured can become a distant, vague memory.”

Allison welcomes you to join her in freedom and walk in forgiveness that others might experience the love of God through you. CCL

Assisted Living With An Independent Spirit

D UGLAS COFFEE COUNTY • GA

Get Involved. Join a Committee

The Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce offers opportunities to direct efforts for business development and community improvement through participation on committees charged with addressing specific business and community needs.

Membership

Membership is dedicated to the recruitment of new members, membership retention, and membership services. Membership publications, incentives and benefits are continually reviewed to maintain relevance in membership recruitment (incentives) and retention (benefits) including services such as Stirring Up Business promos. The Ambassador program is a vital part of the membership committee and provides support of chamber program networking opportunities, ribbon cuttings, and networking opportunities and power lunches.

Marketing/Tourism/Events

Marketing is dedicated to effective programs, services, and promotions of Douglas-Coffee County as a thriving community to visit, live, work, and play. All avenues of marketing are continually explored and reviewed to ensure up-to-date information and relevancy including but not limited to social media, relevant publications, magazines, etc. and events that highlight Douglas-Coffee County such as Taste of Douglas, festivals, etc.

Leadership Development

Maintains a focus on building capacity by sustaining a pipeline of highly qualified and well-prepared leaders in the community. Leadership Development focuses on identifying and developing leadership skills for the workplace, community, region, and state. It introduces emerging leaders to community topics such as government, education, economic development, and other issues dealing with quality of life on the local, regional, and state level. Leadership Coffee program is a vital component as well as state and regional leadership training opportunities such as Locate South Georgia LEADS.

Governmental Affairs

Composed of business and community leaders who serve as advocates of legislative and regulatory issues affecting our businesses and community and recommend action, when necessary, to the Chamber’s board of directors. This committee focuses on legislative and regulatory issues affecting our businesses and community. It provides opportunities for information exchange between the chamber and governmental offices and encourages cooperation and communication between local, regional, and state governmental entities. Douglas-Coffee Co Eggs & Issues and Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs & Issues are two examples of functions provided for members to interact with state and local leadership.

Workforce Development

Focuses on implementing quality, employer-driven workforce development initiatives and partnerships that support business success. Workforce efforts aligned with business and industry demands, provide education and training programs to assist with workforce development. Partnerships and collaboration with Coffee County public & private PreK - 12th grade schools and postsecondary institutions as well as programming such as Ga TECH Ga Manufacturing Extension Partnership, STEAM, SGRC, School Business & Industry Connection, Douglas Dept of Labor Area Employer Committee.

Photography for Adventurous Souls

An unexpectedJourney

W“When we left Douglas in February of 2017, we told our families goodbye. We never expected to come back. We hoped we would, but in reality, we didn’t think we would be back,” says Matt Baker, owner and operator of the Douglas Chick-fil-A location.

Nearly six years later, the Bakers are back in Douglas, operating a Chick-fil-A restaurant that wasn’t even on the map when they left. The twists, turns, and miracles that happened along the way are almost unbelievable. A Hollywood

The Bakers’ journey to operating a Chick-fil-A restaurant is a tale of perseverance, patience, isolation, and, of course, faith.

Story by ROBERT PRESTON, JR. | Photos by Rose Colored Lens and provided by the Baker Family

Matt pulled a few tricks out of his hat from his previous career in sales. “I told them that I was from Douglas. My wife was from Douglas. That’s where my roots were. No one in the candidate pool could say that. I asked them to just let me try,” he says.

screenwriter couldn’t have penned a better story. Theirs is a tale of perseverance, patience, isolation, and, of course, faith.

It began when Matt was a 16-yearold student at Sandy Creek High School in Peachtree City. That’s when he took a job at Chick-fil-A to make some extra money. Little did he know that he was sowing seeds for his family that wouldn’t sprout for over two decades.

Though Matt’s parents, Doyle and Louise Baker, were from Douglas, Matt was actually born in New Jersey. Doyle was in the Army and traveled quite a bit. After Doyle left the Army, the Bakers moved to Augusta, where Doyle, who was also a pastor, helped start a church. They lived there for about 11 years before moving to Peachtree City. It’s there that Matt became acquainted with Chick-fil-A.

Matt worked at the restaurant through high school. When he graduated, his parents moved back to Douglas. Matt left Chick-fil-A and moved with them. He enrolled at then-South Georgia College (now South Georgia State College),

“We get so focused on the destination that we miss the journey. I had to grow to get to this destination and I believe God kept the destination hidden from us. He revealed Douglas to us in His time. God knew that we would open in a pandemic as well as a labor shortage. He knew what we needed and He gave us the tools and reassurance.” - Matt Baker

not start dating until several years later.

After graduating from SGC, Matt headed back to the Atlanta area, this time to Kennesaw State University, where he earned a degree in marketing. He moved back to Douglas and began working in sales at Walker’s Home Health Care. He and Jessica renewed their friendship, which soon became much more than that. They began dating and, in 2008, married.

During his time, Matt also became friends with Britt McDade, who married the former Candace McDonald of Douglas. Britt became a Chick-fil-A operator in Vidalia. He had other friends who also became Chick-fil-A operators.

That re-ignited the Chick-fil-A fire. “I had worked at Walker’s for seven years. Then I left and went into pharmaceutical sales. We had a home at Mallard Pointe. We were settled in our careers, but we weren’t settled in our hearts,” Matt recalls.

Matt knew this much…he wanted to own a Chick-fil-A restaurant, but it was a difficult process —very competitive and with no guarantees. Moving in that direction was a big risk, one that required a great deal of prayer and a willingness to relocate, a move that would likely take the Bakers a long way from Douglas permanently. Jessica remembers those days well. “I knew we’d never come back. The Lord had shaped my heart to move forward with

“We talk about faith and trust. I’ve never faced anything like I did during that time I was in Columbus after Jessica and the kids left. I had to walk out all those memory verses I learned as a child. I remember quoting Psalm 119:105—Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. A lamp back then only illuminated the path a few steps ahead, you couldn’t see the entire journey. We get so focused on the destination that we miss the journey. I had to grow to get to this destination and I believe God kept the destination hidden from us. He revealed Douglas to us in His time. God knew that we would open in a pandemic as well as a labor shortage. He knew what we needed and He gave us the tools and reassurance,” says Matt.

this,” she says. Very matter-of-factly, Matt states that “we liquidated our lives here and moved.”

Matt headed 170 miles west to Columbus. He went first, in February of 2017. Jessica was teaching; she and the kids joined him in June after the school year ended. Matt went to work as a managing director of a Chickfil-A owned by a friend, Alex Vann. Alex’s store had turned out 11 operators previously; his store was a great place for a potential operator to be.

When Matt expressed interest in becoming an operator, he was one of 68,000 people to do so. To say the odds were stacked against him would be a tremendous understatement. To complicate matters, Douglas was not even on the map as far as getting a Chick-fil-A store goes. His words mirror Jessica’s: “I never expected to come back home. I hoped we would, but in reality, when we told our families goodbye and moved to Columbus, I thought we’re also saying goodbye to Douglas.”

The Bakers lived in Columbus as a family for about two years. Matt formally expressed interest in becoming

By the time the powers that be mentioned sending the Bakers to Kentucky, Chick-fil-A had accepted Douglas as a restaurant location. Now Matt didn’t just want to be in the Southeast, he wanted to be in Douglas. But Matt didn’t have permission to talk to the Chickfil-A Southeast rep. Before he could even plead his case, he had to overcome that hurdle.

an operator in September of 2018. In June of the following year, Jessica and the kids returned to Douglas. That’s when the dark days set in. “It was easier on us during that time because we were back in Douglas with family. Matt was living in Columbus right by himself in a little camper. When we went to see him, we had to get hotel rooms. There were some weeks that we didn’t get to see each other at all,” Jessica says. He was lonely and isolated. At times he felt like everything was caving in on him. When you grow up in church, you hear all

the church clichés—God is in control, everything works out in His timing, stay faithful and keep your eyes focused on Him—those and a thousand others. Yet it was during this time that those words, phrases, and verses grew legs and became a reality. Matt knew he was doing what God wanted. Jessica did, too, but that didn’t mean it was easy. “Man, those were difficult days. There were times when I just didn’t feel like I could do it,” Matt says.

Jessica returned home because she knew that a Chickfil-A opportunity was coming within the next year. When that happened, Matt would have to move to whatever community the company had for him. That would leave her and the children in Columbus by themselves until the school year ended. “I didn’t want

Jessica returned home because she knew that a Chickfil-A opportunity was coming within the next year. When that happened, Matt would have to move to whatever community the company had for him. That would leave her and the children in Columbus by themselves until the school year ended. “I didn’t want to be stuck in Columbus. There were some good things happening in the school system in Coffee County. Coffee High was transitioning into the academy model. So that was a great opportunity,” she says.

to be stuck in Columbus. There were some good things happening in the school system in Coffee County. Coffee High was transitioning into the academy model. So that was a great opportunity,” she says.

Still, there were no definite plans for a Douglas Chick-fil-A. And if there were, Matt probably wouldn’t be at the top of the list. The Southeast is very competitive and lots of seasoned operators wanted any Southeast opportunity that came available. But if anything, Matt Baker is persistent.

At one time, a Chick-fil-A executive told Matt he wasn’t competitive. The meaning behind “not competitive” is that Matt wasn’t operator material. Matt refused to accept that. He persisted and eventually landed a potential opportunity in . . . Paducah, Kentucky. It was a mall restaurant and Matt wasn’t thrilled one bit. “I didn’t want to go to Paducah,” he says, laughing.

By the time the powers that be mentioned sending the Bakers to Kentucky, Chick-fil-A had accepted Douglas as a restaurant location. Now Matt didn’t just want to be in the Southeast, he wanted to be in Douglas. But Matt didn’t have permission to talk to the Chick-fil-A Southeast rep. Before he could even plead his case, he had to overcome that hurdle.

Matt was supposed to go to Paducah and visit that community. He never went and told the Chick-fil-A executives that he didn’t go. Jessica also remembers that well. “The Lord didn’t bring us this far to send us to Paducah,” she laughs.

Matt pulled a few tricks out of his hat from his previous career in sales. “I told them that I was from Douglas. My wife was from Douglas. That’s where my roots were. No one in the candidate pool could say that. I asked them to just let me try,” he says.

Reluctantly, they gave him permission to speak to Marty House, the Southeast rep. Matt wrote him a letter expressing his interest in Douglas. In that letter, Matt opened up his heart in a way he never had before. He laid out his passion and vision for serving the Douglas-Coffee County community through Chick-fil-A. “God linked our hearts through that letter. There were better operators than me who wanted Douglas. I wasn’t the best or the most experienced. It was simply God at work,” he says.

When Matt was in Truett Cathy’s office for his final interview, he was told that it was nearly impossible for things to line up the way they did. Yes, executives can move people around and make things happen, but there’s also a framework within which they must work. A few of the things that happened with the Bakers were outside of that framework. “They told me that this wasn’t Chick-fil-A, it was God,” he says, still getting emotional over three years later.

In December of 2019, Matt found out he was getting Douglas. His official signing day came in June of 2020. The store opened on November 12, 2020— right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Just when the Bakers thought their trials were coming to end, they weren’t over yet.

“We talk about faith and trust. I’ve never faced anything like I did during that time I was in Columbus after Jessica and the kids left. I had to walk out all those memory verses I learned as a child. I remember quoting Psalm 119:105—Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. A lamp back then only illuminated the path a few steps ahead, you couldn’t

see the entire journey. We get so focused on the destination that we miss the journey. I had to grow to get to this destination and I believe God kept the destination hidden from us. He revealed Douglas to us in His time. God knew that we would open in a pandemic as well as a labor shortage. He knew what we needed and He gave us the tools and reassurance,” says Matt.

Out of the 68,000 people who expressed a desire to be Chick-fil-A operators at the time that Matt did, only 100 were selected. When the company accepted Douglas as a location, there were no plans for Matt to get that store. Today, over two years later, the store is thriving and has already become a fixture in the Coffee County community. Matt and Jessica, along with their three children, Ella, Anna Claire, and Briggs, happily, thankfully, and worshipfully serve the community through their Chick-fil-A restaurant. CCL

Monday

Miracle League

By Robert Preston, Jr. | Photos by Tetonia Tumblin Photography

The Miracle League in Conyers is a place where physical and mental disabilities can enjoy playing baseball just like their able-bodied peers.

During Miracle League games, the experience is authentic. Though the field is rubber, it’s colored just like a grass field. The base paths are brown. The grassy areas are green. There are foul poles, a fence, bases, and a fully functional scoreboard. The field is named after Commissioner Roper; the scoreboard bears his name and likeness.

As Cole Suttles makes his way to the baseball field on game night, his excitement borders on the uncontrollable. He smiles and giggles and shifts in his wheelchair. Yes, his wheelchair. Cole, 9, has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, conditions that have him confined him to a wheelchair. Because of his disabilities, the list of things that Cole can do is limited, but through the new Miracle League in Douglas, Cole and others with physical and mental disabilities can enjoy playing baseball just like their able-bodied peers. “The Miracle League means so much to Cole. It allows him to be a boy, to be who he is on the inside. It gives him the opportunity to be a real teammate and feel he succeeds at something. It allows him to feel special and included,” says Kaycee Foster, Cole’s mother.

The Miracle League began in Conyers, Georgia, in 2000. It didn’t take long for word to spread about the league and within two years, Miracle Leagues were operating in South Carolina, Alabama, West Virginia, Illinois, and California. Currently, there are over 240 Miracle

Leagues operating in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

The Miracle League’s seeds were sown in the annual Kayla Day celebration, held in October of each year in memory of Kayla Davis, a special needs student who had attended the Coffee County School System. Kayla Day is a day of activities set aside in October of each year to give special needs children the opportunity to enjoy the kinds of games and activities that able-bodied children play. “But Kayla Day is only one day a year,” says City Manager Charlie Davis. “There was an idea to have something that special needs children, and even adults, could enjoy more than once a year. That’s when we found Miracle League.”

Miracle League is unique in several ways; however, its most striking feature is the field. The Miracle

League field is specially designed so that the facilities can accommodate children and adults with disabilities. In particular, natural grass isn’t wheelchair or crutch friendly. Neither is the turf found on many fields these days. Miracle League fields are made out of rubberized turf, giving the players a soft and safe field upon which to play. The rubber also allows for wheelchairs, crutches, and other devices that players may require.

As you might expect, such a specialized surface is expensive to build and even more so to maintain. To make sure the Miracle League was done correctly, City of Douglas personnel had the project on the books for a long time. Going back to around 2010, city planners knew that a new pool complex at Davis Wade Park would be needed. It was then

that the first discussions regarding the Miracle League began. “We had heard about the Miracle League. We knew that we would eventually be building a new pool. When we built the pool, we wanted to build a Miracle League field at the same location. The pool and the Miracle League field would share some of the same facilities,” says City Manager Davis. But the wheels of governmental progress turn slowly. As the project moved through the bureaucratic channels, it found a champion in the late Johnnie Lee Roper, a longtime city commissioner whose mission was to ensure that the underserved had a voice. When he learned there was an organization that allowed those with disabilities to play sports just like able-bodied children and adults, he needed no further convincing. He made sure that no one forgot about the Miracle League project. He wouldn’t lend his stamp of

It’s not just the players and their parents who are affected, either. “I’m so enthused and overjoyed when we’re playing. This is the first time having something like this in our community. It’s done a lot for me personally. Sports can be a grind sometimes—there’s a lot of fussing, problems over uniforms, umpires, all that. This is about having a good time and the pure enjoyment that sports is supposed to be,” says Stevie Young, Director of the Douglas-Coffee County Parks and Recreation Department.

approval to any project moving forward unless the Miracle League remained a priority.

Sadly, Mr. Roper passed away in March of 2017. He never saw the project completed. If anything, however, his death brought more attention to the Miracle League. With Mr. Roper’s name attached to the project, it became a tangible expression of his life’s work. Much of what he had done to give a voice to the voiceless had been done behind the scenes. But this would be something everyone in the community could see and something that would make a lasting impact on children, adults, and families far and wide.

Raising a child with special needs is difficult on good days. If you’ve been around a special needs child or adult, no doubt you’ve witnessed some of the challenges parents and caregivers face. But maybe the more difficult challenges are the things you don’t see — family-only birthday parties, no

sleepovers, no school dances, no 16th birthday parties, driver’s licenses, first dates, texts, phone calls, or other messages from friends. There are no ball games, cheerleading, dance recitals, music lessons, or anything else. It’s a lonely and isolated existence at times — for both the child and parents alike.

The Miracle League fills at least one of those voids. Not only does it allow the participants to play a game that every other child plays growing up, it also gives them an opportunity to socialize, make friends, and build relationships that extend beyond playing baseball.

The format of Miracle League games varies based on the number of participants and the area in which the league is located. In Douglas, there are usually just enough players for one team. The players team with a buddy that helps them hit and guides them around the bases. There are other buddies in the field playing defense. They corral the balls and make sure everyone reaches base.

You see things at Miracle League games you don’t see anywhere else. Some players run the bases wide open. Others walk. Some carry their bats and the buddies have to get them on the base paths…some of the players stop in between bases and dance.

The buddies range in age from teens to adults and are usually members of a school team or a community organization. The buddies get to know their Miracle League player and they recognize each other when they’re out and about.

The players also range in age from elementary students to middle-aged adults. For the adults, the Miracle League is the first time they’ve ever played organized sports. They enjoy walk-up music and the crowd — and there is always a large crowd at the games — cheers wildly for every player. When the players walk from the ondeck circle to home plate, they’re grinning from ear to ear. They’re the center of attention. All eyes are on them and people are chanting their names. Each at-bat is a special experience that will melt the hardest of hearts.

You see things at Miracle League games you don’t see anywhere else. Some players run the bases wide open. Others walk. Some carry their bats and the buddies have to get them on the base paths…some of the players stop in between bases and dance.

In Cole’s case, he can’t hold the bat so his father, Alex Suttles, accompanies him to the plate. Cole puts one hand on the bat while Alex has one hand on as well. Together, the two of them swing the bat. When the ball is in play, Alex pushes Cole around the bases. When Cole is “running” the bases, there isn’t a happier person on Earth. “It’s a moment where the community comes together to show support for Cole and the other players. They’re important. It’s a time where the diagnosis and the challenges get put aside and it’s just them being them and people get to witness that miracle. To me, I get to see my boy being a part of a real team. I get to watch him play ball, which is something I didn’t think I’d ever get to see. That means the world to me as a mom,” says Kaycee.

It’s not just the players and their parents who are affected, either. “I’m so enthused and overjoyed when we’re playing. This is the first time having something like this in our community. It’s done a lot for me personally. Sports can be a grind sometimes—there’s a lot of fussing, problems over uniforms, umpires, all that. This is about having a good time and the pure enjoyment that sports is supposed to be,” says Stevie Young, Director of the Douglas-Coffee County Parks and Recreation Department.

During Miracle League games, the experience is authentic. Though the field is rubber, it’s

colored just like a grass field. The base paths are brown. The grassy areas are green. There are foul poles, a fence, bases, and a fully functional scoreboard. The field is named after Commissioner Roper; the scoreboard bears his name and likeness.

November marked the end of the first full year of Miracle League games. Games will begin again in the spring. The plans are to partner with the Okefenokee league in Waycross and have three or four teams. That way, teams can play each other and experience an even greater level of friendly competition. “We want to get the word out earlier and get more people involved. This is something very special and we want everyone who can to enjoy it,” says Stevie.

The Miracle League web site states the following: “Our players may not be able to run the bases or hit the ball as well as some of their peers, but they have an equal amount of love and determination to play baseball. We want to help them achieve that dream.” That dream begins again in the spring of 2023. If you would like more information regarding the Douglas Miracle League, contact the Douglas-Coffee County Parks and Recreation Department. CCL

The players also range in age from elementary students to middle-aged adults. For the adults, the Miracle League is the first time they’ve ever played organized sports. They enjoy walk-up music and the crowd — and there is always a large crowd at the games — cheers wildly for every player. When the players walk from the on-deck circle to home plate, they’re grinning from ear to ear. They’re the center of attention. All eyes are on them and people are chanting their names. Each atbat is a special experience that will melt the hardest of hearts.

By Robert Preston, Jr. |

Photos by Tetonia Tumblin Photography and Provided

one remarkable career

TThough several different clinics and facilities had served the healthcare needs of Douglas and Coffee County for over 30 years, the facility that eventually became Coffee Regional Medical Center opened as Douglas Hospital 88 years ago in 1935. Over nearly nine decades, hospital administrators have come and gone. So have countless doctors, nurses, support personnel, and even buildings. But for all the changes, there has been one constant presence at the hospital for nearly half of its history… Sherry Thomas.

Sherry’s career in healthcare began 49 years into Coffee Regional’s run, back in 1973. As I tell Sherry’s story, it’s easy to focus simply on her journey through the ranks of the hospital, from a nurse on the neonatal floor all the way to the highest levels of hospital administration. But that would be a disservice, both to Sherry and healthcare in Coffee County.

The story of the two is inseparably linked. The story

Sherry Thomas’ career in healthcare began 49 years into Coffee Regional’s run, back in 1973.

of one is the story of the other. Yes, Sherry began her career as a nurse, a graduate of the then-South Georgia College nursing program. She furthered her education over the course of 20+ years, all the while raising a family, and moving up the ladder, eventually landing in upper management.

But that kind of journey doesn’t take place in a vacuum. Each step of the way was in a sense a response to the growing challenges of rural healthcare. Initially a facility that birthed babies and took care of basic healthcare crises, Coffee Regional has evolved into one of the most advanced healthcare facilities of its size in Georgia. Nearly twice the size as it was when Sherry first walked through the doors as a young nurse in 1973. The hospital now employs over 700 doctors, nurses, and other professionals and is capable of handling procedures that weren’t fathomable in the 1970s, much less in a rural hospital. The tale of both is indeed remarkable.

When Sherry graduated from high school, she initially planned on a career in education. A basketball player and cheerleader, she wanted to be a teacher and coach. “My coaches transformed me from an adolescent and teenager into an adult. Donnie Graham, James Moore, Clayton Mathis, and Walter Huckaby— all taught me how to be the member of a team. They showed me that it’s not all about me and that every team member has a common purpose. I learned a lot of life’s lessons in the old Bryan Street Gym and Coffee High School gym,” Sherry recalls.

“I’ve tried to let the Christian principles my parents instilled in me guide me in everything I do. I give Him all the glory. About 10 years ago, Shep Johnson challenged us to invite God to work with us. And we did. We began every day with a prayer and invited God into our facility to lead and direct us. It’s something we still do today, and it has made all the difference in the world. This has truly been a group effort. It began at South Georgia College in 1971 and has involved every member of my family and every staff member of Coffee Regional Medical Center. Together, I believe we have made a difference in this community and I’m thankful to have played a small part in that,” Sherry says.

While teachers and coaches make significant and lasting impacts on the lives of their students, those impacts often aren’t seen until years later. Sherry wanted a career that offered her the opportunity to make a more immediate impact in people’s lives, so she decided to pursue nursing and enrolled in South Georgia College. She graduated with a nursing degree in 1973 and went to work at Coffee Regional, but only temporarily.

Sherry knew her young family would be relocating to Atlanta but she still needed a job until the move. She joined the staff at the hospital and remained there until the move took place. Over the course of her career, Sherry has had to navigate both tragedy and challenges.

The first significant tragedy happened on March 19,

Sherry Thomas has certainly had a remarkable career. There have been several times that any one of a number of events could have altered or even derailed it. But she has been driven by a sense of purpose, compassion, and empathy for the people of Coffee County, and a quiet confidence that she could make a lasting and tangible difference in this community. She does not enjoy attention, awards, accolades, or recognition. All she has wanted to do is simply help others, not out of obligation, but out of a sincere love for others. “I was so blessed to have been raised in a Christian home.”

Each month during the lockdowns, Amy would search for opportunities for Blue Poppy to participate in local Farmers Markets (which were open under the essential businesses portion of the COVID mandate), and each month she was somehow able to make her rent payment for the new studio. “My whole existence is looking for opportunities, and I do think we tend to find what we’re looking for...but I also believe in Divine Providence, because the opportunities in my life are far beyond mere coincidence.”

1973. It also proved the catalyst for one of the most significant healthcare advancements in Coffee Regional’s history to that point. The day before, on March 18, Sherry gave birth to a son, Christopher David. Christopher was born with complications, the kind of issues that the hospital was not equipped to handle. On March 19, Christopher was transferred to Tifton for more acute care. His complications were too serious and he passed away while en route.

Sherry and her family picked up the pieces as best they could and the move to Atlanta still happened as planned. While in Atlanta, Sherry took a job at Cobb General Hospital in the perinatal unit. She also did some training at Grady Memorial Hospital. It was there that she saw firsthand how an acute care perinatal unit operated. She learned emergency techniques and procedures that would make a life-saving impact on the Douglas-Coffee County community. “In Atlanta, I saw all the amazing things they were doing to save newborns, the kinds of things that we hadn’t been able to do,” she says.

After a few years in Atlanta, Sherry returned to Douglas and went back to work at Coffee Regional in the perinatal unit. This time, however, she was tasked with transforming the unit from simply a department that birthed babies to an acute care facility. Now babies born with complications, as her Christopher had been, would not need to be transferred. Along with pediatricians Dr. Jack Williams and Dr. Granville Simmons, she helped equip the unit and train staff in clinical practices that could meet the immediate healthcare

needs of newborns and their mothers. That task alone has contributed to saving innumerable infants over the last 40 or so years. “We were all part of a team that worked together to save newborns. We worked very well together,” Sherry says. She also had the opportunity to work with her mother, Mildred, when she returned. Mildred made a career change when she was in her early 40s and also enrolled in nursing school. She graduated as a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1972 and she too took a job at Coffee Regional. “One of the fondest memories of my career was working side-by-side with my mother. She was such an amazing nurse,” Sherry recalls.

If that was all Sherry had done, it would be enough to a name a wing of the hospital after her or secure a place in the hospital’s Circle of Honor, if Coffee Regional had such a thing. Aside from the obvious impact the new nursery had on the community, it demonstrated something else…Sherry had the vision and expertise

to address and solve the complex healthcare needs that would guide Coffee Regional into the future.

Rural healthcare has always had to battle disparities in funding, staffing, facilities, education, and advocacy. As Coffee Regional moved from the 1970s into the 1980s, the hospital had to address the primary causes of illness and death—acute injuries, heart attack, lower respiratory illnesses, cancer, and stroke. Hospitals in major cities struggled with these ailments, so to tackle these issues in a community like Coffee County was a seemingly insurmountable hurdle.

As healthcare evolved during that time, Sherry had to address a few changes in her personal life. Her two daughters, Heather and Jennifer, were born in 1978 and 1981, respectively. As her career progressed, she had to balance her professional goals with two young daughters. Her family, who

supported her at every turn, was there to help. “My parents, Aldean and Mildred Thomas, could have written the lesson plans and taught the classes on work ethic. I was very blessed to have them and I’m grateful every day for them,” Sherry says.

In 1983, Sherry left the nursing floor and became Quality Director. The hospital had a need and she stepped in to fill it. “I continued to grow in my career. I was always ready to be trained in something new and contribute in any way that I could,” she says. Quality is where all operations of the hospital intersect. Each department, from engineering to food service to surgery has its own standards and best practices. The Quality department holds the checks and balances on every level of care patients are supposed to receive. Sherry and her staff had to be familiar with state and federal guidelines on everything —fire drills, food service inspections, credentialing, regulations regarding emergency generators, medications, and everything else. “We made sure that every service line strived to meet the highest standards based on its department’s best practices and professional criteria,” she explains. The experience she gained as Quality Director paved the way for further professional opportunities in the future.

But there was something else…Sherry still loved nursing and she craved the interaction with patients. “I’ve always tried to conduct myself with compassion and a love for others. I love helping others and I come to work every day to save lives and make a difference in the lives of others,” she says. Sherry jumped into the action as much as she could. “I got enough hands-on work to keep me satisfied. Whenever there was tragedy or patients facing difficult circumstances, I wanted to be involved however I was needed, whether it was working with patients or being there with families and staff. I wanted to stay involved as much as possible.” Countless times Sherry has comforted grieving and hurting family members, often kneeling in prayer with them in their darkest moments.

Eventually, her duties in administration pulled her away from the floor. Patients, however, were always front and center in everything she did. “I had to stop bedside care, but I’ve never stopped bedside caring,” she says.

respectively. As her career progressed, she had to balance her professional goals with two young daughters. Her family, who supported her at every turn, was there to help. “My parents, Aldean and Mildred Thomas, could have written the lesson plans and taught the classes on work ethic. I was very blessed to have them and I’m grateful every day for them,” Sherry says.

The 1990s brought more obstacles. The healthcare model continued to change. Coffee Regional needed more physicians and specialists, but private practices were harder and harder to operate due to continued reimbursement challenges. Government agencies piled on more and more red tape. Coffee Regional was outgrowing its existing building and Sherry needed more education.

While dealing with these “opportunities,” Sherry enrolled at what is now Albany State University. There were no online classes back then. More education meant driving to a college campus and sitting in class, often after working all day. For several years, she made the three-hour round trip to Albany as she furthered her education. She took classes at night and on Saturdays. “I couldn’t have done it without my family. They were there every step of the way,” she states. Sherry earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1991 and four years later, she obtained a Master of Science in Nursing. While she was working on her master’s degree, tragedy struck again. Her brother, Randy, and his wife, Faye, passed away, leaving their two

children, sixth grader Jamie and fourth grader Dori, needing a home. Sherry and her family answered the call and opened their home to Jamie and Dori.

The Thomas family had grown suddenly by two. Jamie and Dori, who Sherry lovingly calls her yours/ mine/ours/their children, however, weren’t the only additions on the way. In 1996, less than two months after her oldest, Heather, graduated from Coffee High, Sherry had Payton Leigh. There were now five children in the Thomas home along with two stepchildren, Brian and Shelley, who spent time with Sherry and her husband, Mike, from time to time.

Things weren’t getting any easier at home or at the hospital. Thankfully, there was plenty of help at both places. Sherry’s family was a constant source of support. Her mother and Mike handled a lot of the responsibilities at home while Sherry worked. “I know I’ve said it several times, but I really couldn’t have done it without them. They’re a big part of all of this,” she says. The staff at Coffee Regional from those in her department to others across the hospital were always there too. “I’ve worked with a lot of incredibly talented and dedicated leaders during

did. We began every day with a prayer and invited God into our facility to lead and direct us. It’s something we still do today, and it has made all the difference in the world. This has truly been a group effort. It began at South Georgia College in 1971 and has involved every member of my family and every staff member of Coffee Regional Medical Center. Together, I believe we have made a difference in this community and I’m thankful to have played a small part in that,” Sherry says.succes. CCL

Rural healthcare has always had to battle disparities in funding, staffing, facilities, education, and advocacy. As Coffee Regional moved from the 1970s into the 1980s, the hospital had to address the primary causes of illness and death—acute injuries, heart attack, lower respiratory illnesses, cancer, and stroke. Hospitals in major cities struggled with these ailments, so to tackle these issues in a community like Coffee County was a seemingly insurmountable hurdle.

Annual Events

Numerous events, festivals, fireworks and food are all good reasons to get together and have a party. Here are just a few of the annual activities that our residents and visitors enjoy.

• Chamber Annual Event featuring Business Awards

• Chamber Clay Shoot, Top Shots Sporting Clays

• Wiregrass Children’s Art Festival

• Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Show, General Coffee State Park

• Wings & Things Festival and Fly-in, Douglas Municipal Airport

• Freedom Fest & Fireworks, J.C. Adams Municipal Park

• Lovebug Festival, General Coffee State Park

• Discover Douglas

• Gopher Tortoise Festival Downtown Douglas

• Relay for Life, Downtown Douglas

• Chamber Fall Women in Business

• Pioneer Harvest Festival, General Coffee State Park

• Downtown Douglas Holiday Open House

• Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony,Downtown Douglas

• Festival of Lights Christmas Parade, Downtown Douglas

• Eggs & Issues with Legislators

Monthly Events

• First Saturdays, Downtown Douglas

• Classic Movie Nights (3rd Tuesday) Rockin’ 8 Cinemas

• History at High Noon (last Wednesday) Heritage Station Museum

FYZICAL Douglas is unlike any therapy clinic you’ve been to before. At FYZICAL Douglas, our highly skilled, compassionate team of physical therapists are 100% focused on achieving optimal health and wellness for you so you can get back to living the life you enjoy.

Unlike other therapy clinics, you will receive a specific program designed uniquely for you. NO ‘one program fits all’ here. There is NO other you!

Daryl Clark started working for Fireside Pizza Shop in 2012. He made his way up from prep cook to general manager at the popular Douglas eatery over the next six years. With owner Luke Christian wanting to focus on the Sucheros Tex Mex restaurants he operated, Luke looked for a prospective buyer. It was a short search. The restaurant would be in familiar hands, the same ones that had tossed countless pizzas and salads and belonging to a general manager who advocated a hands-on approach to running a business.

Daryl, 42, and his wife, Bobbie, purchased the restaurant in 2018. They’re among a staff of seven that includes family and friends. It didn’t take long for Daryl to make his mark as an owner. In 2020, the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce recognized him as Entrepreneur of the Year.

“It was amazing winning the award,” Daryl said. “It was one of the best feelings I ever had.” The award celebrates entrepreneurs as valued members and leaders of the community and honors those individuals who strive toward the highest level of personal or professional accomplishment. It honors individuals who demonstrate excellence, creativity, innovation, and a truly entrepreneurial spirit.”

Daryl Clark and his hard work ethic made the way for him from prep cook to owner of Fireside Pizza.

Story by ROBERT PRESTON, JR. | Photos by E & C Photography and provided by the Baker Family

“Daryl and Bobbie make a great team, offering the most delicious and unique sandwiches, pizzas, pastas and desserts,” Lisa said. “There is nothing more pleasing than watching a hardworking, determined young man find such joy in his work. I am thrilled to witness the American dream coming to fruition by a humble young man willing to begin at the bottom, listen, observe and learn from his mentors while working toward ownership.”

Lisa C. Hodge is Executive Director of the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce. With her office located next to Fireside Pizza, Lisa said she and her staff would frequently have samples of Daryl’s creations that he brought over to receive feedback. She noted they were more than willing to help and watched Daryl and his wife establish an award-winning restaurant.

“Daryl and Bobbie make a great team, offering the most delicious and unique sandwiches, pizzas, pastas and desserts,” Lisa said. “There is nothing more pleasing than watching a hardworking, determined young man find such joy in his work. I am thrilled to witness the American dream coming to fruition by a humble young man willing to begin at the bottom, listen, observe and learn from his mentors while working toward ownership.”

The menu at Fireside features pizza, sandwiches, wings, and salad. Daryl said they make everything by hand and hand-cook all the meats. The pizza dough is made with water, flour, salt, and yeast, while the Grande cheese is of the highest quality, according to Daryl. They offer dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering. Much of the business comes from schools and medical offices. On Mondays, youngsters accompanied by adults eat for free.

In 2016, as General Manager, Daryl added wings to the menu and added his own creative touch - Daryl’s All Purpose Seasoning. He said they took off like a rocket and has remained his second best-seller. Three years later, with his seasoning in high demand, Daryl bottled it up and started selling it online; it’s also sold at Lotts Builders in Douglas.

Complementing the homey touch that is on the menu is the cozy and inviting atmosphere. Customers feel right at home when they come to Fireside Pizza. “We’re real community oriented,” Daryl said. “At least half the customers we call by name.”

One of these is Jean Ellis. She and her husband went there twice weekly before the latter died in August. “It was my husband’s favorite place,” Jean said.

“He had certain dietary needs and ordered a special pizza. They fixed it exactly the way he wanted. Other places won’t do that.”

Jean continues to dine at Fireside. She said the service is excellent, with staff going out of its way to help, and they always know your name and greet you when you’re coming and going. Not to be overlooked is the signature item on the menu. “The pizza is really good,” Jean said. “The crust is excellent, not too thick and not too thin. I’ve never seen it burnt. They’ll make it any way you want. He’ll prepare special pizzas for people on Keto and other diets.”

“Jean continues, “Daryl tries new recipes and wants to learn. He went to the Players Championship in Jacksonville to learn from a chef.” That chef is Matt Kepp, who works the TPC Sawgrass every year and has known Daryl since shortly after high school. They worked together at the Flying Cowboy in Douglas, with Daryl manning the grill and Matt, a server trained by Daryl’s wife.

They remained in touch after Matt moved to Jacksonville, and this past March, Matt invited Daryl to join him and gain the experience of making pizzas in a high-volume environment as the pizza and grill

chef. “He was a really, really good part of the team,” Kepp said. “He did an amazing job. Everyone loved him.”

Daryl and Matt operated a brick oven and barbecue and smoking section near the clubhouse and prepared meals for players and guests. “Matt gave me the freedom to use my seasoning where I saw fit,” Daryl said. “Everyone loved it, both guests and players. It was awesome knowing the PGA players were enjoying the food I had a hand in making. We got word back they loved it.”

Matt said he gave Daryl a number of recipes for Fireside Pizza including one for his dough. He described his pizza as really good, noting it’s one of the lighter ones of its kind. Matt, who attended culinary school and has mentored a number of chefs, said he’s not surprised by Daryl’s success as owner of Fireside Pizza.

“Daryl has a great food mind,” Matt said. “Customers go to his restaurant because they’re taken care of and enjoy great food. He has a connection with the customers and allows them to generate ideas.”

Daryl and Bobbie have spent much of their lives in the restaurant business. Growing up in Eastman,

Jean continues to dine at Fireside. She said the service is excellent, with staff going out of its way to help, and they always know your name and greet you when you’re coming and going. Not to be overlooked is the signature item on the menu. “The pizza is really good,” Jean said. “The crust is excellent, not too thick and not too thin. I’ve never seen it burnt. They’ll make it any way you want. He’ll prepare special pizzas for people on Keto and other diets.”

Georgia, Daryl, a teenager, worked at his uncle’s restaurant in Chauncey as a dishwasher and kitchen helper. He also worked with another uncle and his aunt in the restaurant business and said he learned so much by watching his relatives and their customers interact in that environment.

“I watched the joy people get from eating and enjoying good food, of watching and feeling the joy of preparing good food for someone and how food brings people together,” Daryl said. “That’s the reason I got into the restaurant business.”

Bobbie, who has been married to Daryl for three years, started working as a server at a restaurant because she needed a job. She learned she was good at it and made excellent money. Through her work in restaurants, Bobbie said she learned how to interact with people. That served her well when she got a job at the Douglas Golf & Country Club in 2010. Bobbie said the members became like family and she developed a rapport with them. She’s taken the same approach at Fireside Pizza. “Our customers are like family,” Bobbie said. “We know about their children and what’s going on in their lives.”

Bobbie’s had to adjust to having “100 bosses” and controlling her temper. As an owner, she said she doesn’t have the option of walking away when she gets angry. While Bobbie admits she has to work at controlling her temper, she describes Daryl as real calm and neutral. “We’re ying and yang,” she noted. However, they’re on the same menu page when it comes to restaurant ownership.

“It was our dream for a long time to own a restaurant,” Bobbie said. “We jumped at it when the opportunity presented itself.”

That opportunity arose in November 2018. That’s when the Clarks became the new owners of Fireside Pizza. With Daryl having basically run the place for four years as General Manager, owner Luke Christian concluded he would be an ideal successor and didn’t consider anyone else. It was an easy sell, as Daryl said he and Bobbie were ready to work for themselves. Owning a restaurant, they discovered, is both rewarding and challenging.

“It’s enlightening and enduring,” said Daryl, who wants to open a Fireside Pizza in Waycross and build from there. “Every day is a challenge. You have to roll with the punches. However, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Fireside Pizza Shop is located at 114 N. Peterson Ave., in Douglas. It’s open Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM, and Saturdays from 10:30 AM to 3 PM. Call (912) 501-3100 for further information.  CCL

Business in Douglas-Coffee County, Georgia

and the Douglas-Coffee Chamber of Commerce is percolating progress.Whether you seek the ideal quality of life in which to grow your family, or a hard-working, eager workforce, plus the available property and logistical advantages to grow your business, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Douglas, Georgia and Coffee County.

Douglas-Coffee County is proud to be among the state’s fastest-growing communities – due, in part, to our premium central location in beautiful Southeast Georgia, with easy four-lane and interstate access to the southeastern United States. Our location puts us between 1 and 2 hours by truck or rail from 3 major East Coast ports and 4 major interstates.

The Douglas-Coffee Chamber of Commerce strives to

support area businesses in all aspects of development and to partner with them in success. Entrepreneurs are important to this area, and Coffee County is part of the Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, offering business development services in partnership with the SBDC in the community. Global trade also supports job and business growth in Douglas; Coffee County products ship to more than 30 countries around the world.

Citizens enjoy an exceptional and robust quality of life and a progressive business climate. It is a great place to live, work, and play. Please explore this website to learn more about why Douglas and Coffee County is a great place to call home, for you and your business.

Shopping in Style

Blair Brawner, owner of Eve Boutique takes her turn in the family business, helping women express their true selves.

From sisters-in-fashion to sisters-in-law, Eve Boutique operates on the practice of women helping women express their true selves. The original owner, Sarah Evans, first opened the boutique in 2004. Sarah ran the boutique for 10 years before selling the store to her sister-in-law, Eve Brawner. In 2019, Eve passed the beloved boutique to her husband’s sister, Blair.

“I’ve worked for many small businesses,” Blair tells me. “I knew at some point in my life I wanted to own a small business. When my brother and Eve brought the idea to me, I jumped on it immediately.”

Originally from Douglas, Blair enjoyed exploring new parts of the world once she graduated from Coffee High School. Passionate about music, she began singing in church at a young age. Later, Blair received her undergraduate degree in vocal

Story by Alexa Tebben | Photos by Tetonia Tumblin Photography

Every moment in the journey back home was another step towards this adventure. “I’ve had a pretty eclectic life, especially career-wise, and I think it’s been this beautiful culmination of bringing me here. Because no matter how far life takes you, there is nothing like coming home.”

performance and then her graduate degree in choral literature and conducting. “I studied opera and toured England and France with a semi-professional choir,” she recalls fondly.

When she came back to the states, Blair moved around quite a bit. “I’ve always been a little bit of a nomad at heart,” she says. Spending time in Atlanta, Kentucky, Savannah, and Florida, the change of pace was a welcome reprieve. But after a while, she felt the tug to move home to Douglas. “I wanted to slow down life, to be with my family – the people that are important to me.”

Blair’s brother and sister-in-law, Eve, had two little girls. “I was living at the time in St. Augustine, Florida,” Blair says. “I felt it was time.” Blair made her way back to Douglas where she worked for Danny Malley at O’Malley Musical Instruments. She loved working at the store and helping others along their musical journey.

Moving into the fashion industry was an unexpected transition. “Fashion in and of itself has never been on my radar, but I love the way you can use clothes as a way of creative self-expression,” Blair says honestly. Becoming a boutique owner was eye opening. For the first time, Blair saw the positive effects of fashion on every day women and the power of a new outfit. “Clothes are beautiful and I love the way they can make people feel.”

When Blair took ownership of Eve Boutique, she set out with goals to personalize it to her liking. “The original Eve had a very iconic look, but I wanted to change it – to make it my own. I pulled out the carpet and redid the floors and the paint color. There was a huge cash register area in the center of the floor. I took

that out so I could make room for more inventory and made that a smaller area.”

In addition to sprucing up the store, Blair set out to create a wider range of product sizes and styles for her financially conservative clientele. “That’s something that people had said they were looking for, a little more of a friendly price range.” Blair began her search for unique lines that maintained the quality of the boutique’s standards while accommodating more accessible budgets. She has

also found joy in stocking lines that represent every day women beyond small, medium and large. “We come in all shapes and sizes,” Blair says. “That’s something that’s on the forefront of my mind when I’m looking to purchase for the store.”

As times evolve, Blair has come to grasp the importance of a strong social media presence. “Social media is a big deal in retail specifically, but any kind of small business,” she says. “It’s

been a learning curve for me because I’m not a social media person.” However, Blair testifies that with social media, “You reach a much wider audience. People always have their phones. I can tell on weeks when I get busy and I don’t post as much that I don’t have as many people coming in.”

Blair has smartly worked to use this to her advantage keeping followers upto-date on new inventory, promotions and events. The boutique’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, Shop Eve, have grown exponentially in the few years they have been up and running…this small difference has made a huge impact on her business.

Blair boasts about Douglas and the leaps and bounds the city has made over the years. “The Chamber has done an excellent job in campaigning in all the downtown businesses, fostering a love and excitement for people to come downtown. Being a part of that and showing your support just makes people feel like we’re all in this together.”

One of the highlights of being a local business owner is participating in the holiday festivities. “One of our big events is the Downtown Christmas Open House, and that is usually around Thanksgiving,” Blair says. She especially enjoys the holiday season when she gets to help others find just the right gift for a friend or family member. “I also have a little Christmas night [at Eve Boutique] where I stay open late.” Last-minute shoppers find this beyond helpful as the holidays approach.

Blair has a small, yet tightknit group of employees at Eve Boutique. From high school and college students to full-time employees, each member brings something unique to the team.

When she came back to the states, Blair moved around quite a bit. “I’ve always been a little bit of a nomad at heart,” she says. Spending time in Atlanta, Kentucky, Savannah, and Florida, the change of pace was a welcome reprieve. But after a while, she felt the tug to move home to Douglas. “I wanted to slow down life, to be with my family – the people that are important to me.”

Originally from Douglas, Blair enjoyed exploring new parts of the world once she graduated from Coffee High School. Passionate about music, she began singing in church at a young age. Later, Blair received her undergraduate degree in vocal performance and then her graduate degree in choral literature and conducting. “I studied opera and toured England and France with a semi-professional choir,” she recalls fondly.

One girl that works at Eve Boutique also babysits Blair’s nieces. “It definitely feels like you’re working with extensions of your family,” Blair says of this. And her employees feel the same.

Through the years, Blair has maintained her passion for music. “My mom is a singer and she’s got a beautiful voice,” Blair says lovingly. “We like to sing together and harmonize. We do everything from country to gospel, pop and 70’s.” Shortly after moving back home to Douglas, Blair and her mom began performing together. They especially enjoy singing at Munch & Music in Emma Ward Park. Sponsored by the Coffee Alliance for the Arts, the event takes place every April and draws a decent outdoor crowd.

Blair reflects on the journey that brought her back to Douglas. Prior to owning Eve Boutique, Blair admits, “I never considered myself a fashionista. [But] I have come to love fashion more through this.”

Every moment in the journey back home was another step towards this adventure. “I’ve had a pretty eclectic life, especially career-wise, and I think it’s been this beautiful culmination of bringing me here.” Because no matter how far life takes you, there is nothing like coming home. CCL

the life of a rescuer

For dog lovers, it’s a sad, yet inevitable fact that most animal shelters are usually filled to capacity with dogs who are in desperate need of a loving home. Unfortunately, most of these animals are ultimately euthanized because there is simply no place for them to go. The remaining strays not “lucky” enough to be captured, simply roam the streets, presenting the potential for animal attacks, property damage, or even a possible rabies outbreak.

Sadly, Coffee County is no exception. On any given day, Coffee County Animal Control (CCAC) will receive around 10 calls about stray animals. Fortunately, there is another option for these animals - rescue organizations like Coffee Cause for Paws (CCFP), an all-breed rescue group made up of dedicated volunteers who have opened up their hearts and homes to animals who have had a cruel hand dealt to them by life.

“We provide a safe haven for animals that really have no other place to go,” explains Debra Walker, Dog Coordinator for the organization. “These dogs come to us from Animal Control, high-kill shelters and owner-surrender situations.”

Last year alone, CCFP helped to rescue over 200 cats and dogs, half of whom were taken in from the local Animal Shelter. “That means we have hundreds of animals who are no longer roaming the streets of Douglas, which makes for a safer community,” says Debra.

CCFP provides their rescues with all the necessary medical care, food, and shelter until a forever home can be found for them. “We provide spaying and neutering as required,” continues Debra. “We also treat them with heartworm, tick and flea prevention or treatment, as well as surgeries. These can include amputations, tumor removal, and eye surgeries, so it can get pretty expensive.”

Debra’s love for our furry friends was fully realized when she rescued her own dog, Sugar,

Debra and Beth say that the problem of stray animals in Douglas could be impacted with stricter laws on the books as well as affordable spaying/neutering. “We need harsher laws and punishments for animal abandonment as well as the so-called ‘backyard breeders’, who are a major reason that shelters are so overcrowded.”

Story By David Pena | Photos by E & C Photography

“Until you have looked into the eyes of a tired dog that has been given away and felt their wisdom, you will never understand the life of a rescuer.”

~Kathie Sullivan-Parkes, Pet Rescuer

from a local shelter. “After I was married in 1994, I really wanted a pet. I had never owned an inside dog before, but I instantly fell in love with Sugar; that’s when my love for domestic animals truly began.” Unfortunately, Sugar passed away last year, but Debra looks back fondly on the times shared with her furry companion. “She was my best friend and actually helped me get through my divorce. She taught me there is no love like the love of a dog.”

CCFP informally originated back in 2016 as an

offshoot of what was known then as the Southeast Georgia Humane Society. The local Animal Shelter had recently put an end to its “no kill” policy, so the small group was born out of a need for a more humane way to deal with stray animals in Douglas. Debra was invited to attend the meeting of a group of like-minded ladies at the First Baptist Church a few years ago. However, after a couple of years and some decidedly mixed results, the leadership decided to step down. “They felt we could be more productive since we were

“We provide a safe haven for animals that really have no other place to go.” - Debra Walker

younger and had more drive,” explains Debra.

Thus, in 2018 Debra and a handful of volunteers began CCFP by absorbing the former Humane Society’s resources. “From the beginning, rescuing animals was our top priority,” she says. “Our very first rescue was a dog named Jiminy that had some back issues but was ultimately adopted by a loving family. We provided him with a stroller so that he could go on walks with them.”

Since then, CCFP developed their logo and marketing strategy to help educate and raise public awareness about the plight of abused and abandoned animals. “We want to educate the community about the process to follow when these animals are found.”

Through referrals from foster families and the community’s willingness to step up and help, CCFP rescued over 200 animals in its first year and has

equaled or matched that number in subsequent years. Debra credits the wonderful volunteers at CCFP, one of whom is a retired teacher named Beth Pendleton who moved to the area about a year ago. “Beth has been our Volunteer Coordinator since moving here, and it thrills my heart to have her as my right-hand person.”

“I had been in rescue for six years in the Savannah area,” Beth recalls, “so when we were looking for places to move, Douglas stood out due to CCFP. Two days after moving into our new Douglas home, I was working at the annual Pups on Parade dog show.” The show is a fundraiser for the organization held every year in June at the Central Square Gym. “In addition to the dog show, we have vendors, adoptions, and merchandise for sale. It’s our major fundraising event for the year, so we always have a great turnout.”

Over the past four years, CCFP has seen tremendous growth with over 40 active volunteers as well as around 25 active fosters. However, Debra stresses that CCFP cannot continue to rescue strays without foster homes and funding. “We can always use more help from the community. Foster homes are critical to what we do, and funding is always needed to help with medical bills.”

It’s important to note that CCFP does not take in stray animals. “We actually have no facility, so all our rescues go to foster homes,” explains Debra. “Any strays found in the city or county must go through a 4-day hold at the local shelter before we can rescue, which gives the owner four days to reclaim their pet.”

Once the animal is rescued, Debra works with the foster family to evaluate the dog’s temperament, determine problematic behaviors (if any), and work on housebreaking while providing the needed socialization. Foster families basically agree to take a homeless dog into their home, either for a predetermined amount of time or until the dog is adopted.

As CCFP’s Dog Coordinator, Debra determines which animals the group can rescue, according to funding and other factors. “The owner

Once the animal is rescued, Debra works with the foster family to evaluate the dog’s temperament, determine problematic behaviors (if any), and work on housebreaking while providing the needed socialization. Foster families basically agree to take a homeless dog into their home, either for a predetermined amount of time or until the dog is adopted.

surrenders is our target animal population, as well as animals from our local and surrounding shelters. We also have at least one adoption event every month, and we’re very strict in both the adoption and fostering process.”

Over the past four years, CCFP has seen tremendous growth with over 40 active volunteers as well as around 25 active fosters. However, Debra stresses that CCFP cannot continue to rescue strays without foster homes and funding. “We can always use more help from the community. Foster homes are critical to what we do, and funding is always needed to help with medical bills.”

Debra and Beth say that the problem of stray animals in Douglas could be impacted with stricter laws on the books as well as affordable spaying/neutering. “We need harsher laws and punishments for animal abandonment

as well as the so-called ‘backyard breeders’, who are a major reason that shelters are so overcrowded.”

As you can see, volunteering to help defenseless animals is no easy feat, but Beth and Debra say that it has its own intrinsic rewards. “As a person of faith, it is part of my belief system to help those who cannot help themselves,” says Beth. “It’s very rewarding to help a dog that didn’t have a chance in this world ultimately find its ‘forever home’. Without a doubt, it’s definitely a labor of love for all of us at Coffee Cause for Paws.”

If you would like more information about CCFP, contact them at coffeecauseforpaws@gmail.com. Adoption applications are found at coffeecauseforpaws.com.  CCL

Over a Century of Service to God

If you visit the large activity room at Lakeside Senior Living, you’ll notice many of the residents’ colorful artistic endeavors that adorn its walls and shelves. An abundance of sunlight fills the room through large windows, and sturdy rocking chairs are just off the back porch, should you be inclined. Every Tuesday at 3 PM, it is in this room that groups of residents gather to study the Bible while listening to a fellow resident expound on his vast knowledge of Scripture.

Each week for the past four years, Charles Warnock has warmly greeted the dozen or so participants as they make their way into the activities room. He then guides them through various Biblical passages, masterfully interspersing the discussion with an abundance of life lessons he has accumulated as a Pastor for more than half a century.

Story by David Pena | Photos by DJM Photography

For all of his 102 years, Charles Warnock has tried to emulate the Lord in everything he has done.

Desiree Womack, Lakeside’s Life Enrichment Director, says, “I’ve known Mr. Charles since he arrived here, and he has always been a very Godly, Christian man. He knows his Bible like nobody’s business; in fact, he tries to keep us in line most of the time!”

What some of Charles’ group members may not know is that the 102-year-old is a veteran of World War II, flying over 100 combat missions during his stint in the military. In fact, up until a few short years ago, Charles was actually the oldest active pilot in the country.

During his Bible study sessions, the centenarian teaches with the zeal (and appearance) of someone half his age. “Mr. Charles loves his role here and truly loves the Lord more than anything else,” explains Desiree. “He wants everyone to know about the Lord.” Charles also puts his faith into practice, regularly donating to several charitable organizations around the world.

Born in Chamblee, Georgia in 1920, Charles was a world traveler from an early age, but he clearly loves his Douglas roots. “I lived in Chamblee as a child before moving to Columbia and then finally settling in Douglas, but I’ve lived all over,” he says. “Early on, my parents instilled a great love of the Lord that I’ve had my entire life.”

After graduating from high school in 1938, Charles attended North Georgia College (NGC) for a year before transferring to South Georgia College (SGC) the following year. It was at SGC that he would embark on a life-changing series of events. At the time, the college had an aviation program and

Charles loves his role at Lakeside and says that he’ll keep on teaching until he isn’t able to, or the Good Lord tells him otherwise. When asked what the secret to a long life is, he just shrugs and says, “I just have always done what God tells me to do, and I try to stay out of trouble. I have found that you’ll have no worries in life if you live like that.”

Charles was able to earn his pilot’s license. “If I had stayed at NGC, I would have entered as a second lieutenant in the army,” explains Charles. “However, when I joined, the government said we could all receive flight training at Georgia State College.” He soon signed up for the Army Air Corps and traveled to Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama to receive his flight training.

After his training was complete, Charles was sent to England in 1942, where he flew his very first mission for the Army. “I transported a group of British paratroopers into North Africa,” he recalls. From that point on, Charles continued

Lola and Charles both came to Lakeside in October of 2018 due to Lola’s failing health. Desiree recalls Charles’ treatment of his wife. “He really doted on her and took such good care of her while they were both here. He was so compassionate to her. In fact, all of our residents really respect Mr. Charles, and they just love to hear him speak.”

In 1994, Charles came back to Douglas to work as Associate Pastor of First Baptist Church. He also began giving flying lessons at the Douglas Municipal Airport, but by then he was a widower, as Marilyn had passed away in 1993. Within a year, though, Cupid would come calling again. “After my mom died, my father became the Minister of Education, and that’s where he met Lola. He worked a great deal with the seniors at the church, and he happened to need a companion. Her husband had died and they just really hit it off.” Charles and Lola married in 1996 and were together until she passed in 2020.

his missions, flying a C-47 during the entire war, helping to transport hundreds of soldiers. “I flew 1800 hours, mainly at night to and from Great Britain.” Some of these missions were so harrowing that on one particular flight, Charles’ copilot ran to the back of the plane and hid while he had to fly the mission solo. He took part in several critical missions during his stint in the Army, notably transporting the 101stAirborne into Sicily.

After being transferred back to the states on a medical discharge, Charles married his first wife, Marilyn. The couple eventually had two sons, Dana and Charles Warnock III (Chuck). Sadly, Dana passed away in 2009, but Chuck chose to follow in his father’s footsteps, becoming Pastor of Chatham Baptist Church in Virginia, where he has served for the past 18 years. “My dad was a great father,” Chuck

Over the years, Charles served in various capacities for a number of churches. “My dad was an Education Director for many years until the church recognized what he could offer as a Pastor.” He was eventually ordained and preached at a number of churches while still maintaining his Sunday School class. recalls. “For example, when he started working for what is now known as Lifeway, traveling quite a bit to help churches in the Southeast. When he returned from these trips, he would have a gift for me. He was always patient and served as a great example for us to follow. He’s a far better man than I will ever be.”

It was around this time that Charles enrolled at the University of Georgia on the GI Bill, where he earned his degree in journalism. He began writing for the local paper and teaching Journalism classes at Georgia College. Before long Charles felt that he needed to go where he was really needed. “In 1953 God put it in my heart to move to Fort Worth, Texas,” he says. In the Lone Star state, Charles studied in the Seminary for the next three years before accepting a position as Associate Pastor at the First Baptist Church in Tifton, where he would work for nearly a decade.

Each week for the past four years, Charles Warnock has warmly greeted the dozen or so participants as they make their way into the activities room. He then guides them through various Biblical passages, masterfully interspersing the discussion with an abundance of life lessons he has accumulated as a Pastor for more than half a century.

It was during his time in Tifton that Charles renewed his love of flying. “I received my instructor’s rating, so I began to give flying lessons regularly,” he recalls. “I occasionally flew businessmen to meetings and conventions, and I also became involved with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) at that time.” Charles flew a number of missions for CAP, helping to locate lost planes.

Tammy Taylor, one of Charles’ former students, even went on to pursue a career as a pilot. Coincidentally, the woman was the daughter of a former resident at Lakeside. “She told me that Charles truly changed her life,” says Desiree. “She said that he was so passionate and detailed in his teaching that it made her very comfortable about flying.” Thanks to Charles’ instruction, Tammy is now pursuing her international piloting license.

Desiree Womack, Lakeside’s Life Enrichment Director,

says, “I’ve known Mr. Charles since he arrived here, and he has always been a very Godly, Christian man. He knows his Bible like nobody’s business; in fact, he tries to keep us in line most of the time!”

Over the years, Charles served in various capacities for a number of churches. “My dad was an Education Director for many years until the church recognized what he could offer as a Pastor.” He was eventually ordained and preached at a number of churches while still maintaining his Sunday School class.

In 1994, Charles came back to Douglas to work as Associate Pastor of First Baptist Church. He also began giving flying lessons at the Douglas Municipal Airport, but by then he was a widower, as Marilyn had passed away in 1993. Within a year, though, Cupid would come calling again. “After my mom died, my father became the Minister of Education, and that’s where he met Lola. He worked a great deal with the seniors at the church, and he happened to need a companion. Her husband had died and they just really hit it off.” Charles and Lola married in 1996 and were together until she passed in 2020.

Lola and Charles both came to Lakeside in October of 2018 due to Lola’s failing health. Desiree recalls Charles’ treatment of his wife. “He really doted on her and took such good care of her while they were both here. He was so compassionate to her. In fact, all of our residents really respect Mr. Charles, and they just love to hear him speak.”

Charles loves his role at Lakeside and says that he’ll keep on teaching until he isn’t able to, or the Good Lord tells him otherwise. When asked what the secret to a long life is, he just shrugs and says, “I just have always done what God tells me to do, and I try to stay out of trouble. I have found that you’ll have no worries in life if you live like that.”

On March 19th, 2023, Charles Warnock joined his father God in Heaven. CCL