Coffee County Magazine - March 2017

Spring 2017

Coffee County also...

The Pursuit of Passion

Ryan and Megan Solomon are working as hunting guides, living their dream and calling it work.

Small Town Big Heart There is something to be said about those like Adam Smith who work hard, achieve success, and remain true to their roots.

Jerome Loving’s whole life had prepared him for doing your best no matter the situation.

Be the Change Cady Ray has a passion for helping others and does not let her age stop her from making things happen.

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

Our Vision:

An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

218 West Ward Street in Douglas 912.384.2270

The BEST comprehensive podiatric care for patients in

SOUTHERN GEORGIA

From routine checkups, to the most complex reconstructive surgery cases, Ankle & Foot Associates is equipped to handle all your podiatric needs. Our office provides a wide range of services such as dedicated lower extremity circulation testing, MRI and Physical Therapy.

Experts in diabetic care, we also treat diabetic wounds, infections and along with our local team of medical doctors, educate and emphasize the importance of routine pedal inspections and exams.

Gregory J. Kramer, DPM Board Certified

Nicole E. Wilson, DPM Board Certified

CALL US TODAY OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

912.384.4121 | 204 Westside Drive, Douglas, Georgia 31533 | www.anklesandfeet.com Hometown Living At Its Best

1

& FRIES & FRIES

Perfect together since 1957 Perfect together since 1957

TM & © 2017 Burger King Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Not just investing in your future but also in theirs

story wealth management group

Your Story Begins Here ...

210 E. Ward Street | Douglas, GA 31533 |(912) 384-0030 | www.storywealth.com Story Wealth Management is an independent firm with securities offered through Summit Brokerage Services, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC. Advisory services offered through Summit Financial Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor.

Coffee County magazine

30

contents 10

Be the Change

Cady Ray is making a difference in her school, community, and state. She has a passion for helping others, and she does not let her age stop her from making things happen!

20

Small Town Big Heart

Jerome Loving’s whole life had been preparation for doing his best no matter the situation.

30

Creating Hometown Habitats with the Help of Vincent Gardens

Donna Vincent uses her knowledge to teach others to create landscapes that are beneficial to nature and wildlife.

40

The Best and the Brightest

10 About the Cover Turn to page 40 to read how Adam Smith came back home to Coffee County to live, work, and raise a family with his dear wife, Amanda. Photo taken by Kelly McDonald Photography.

40

There is something to be said about those like Adam Smith who work hard, achieve success, and remain true to their roots.

52

There’s No Biz Like Sno Biz

While the employees at Sno Biz feel like family for some of its more frequent patrons, the business actually is a family affair.

4

coffee county magazine

20

60

The Pursuit of Passion

Ryan and Megan Solomon are working as hunting guides, living their dream and calling it work.

76

Kicking Goals Towards

The Future

Noah Saylor’s natural talent for sports has opened up a world of possibilities for his future.

86

Bright Future Ahead

As our world continues to shift and change around us, Dr. Thompson-Sellers is a brilliant and capable professional who is committed to bringing further success and prestige to SGSC.

98

Bone Pickers

As the name implies, fish is almost always getting happy in the fryers.

110

Pancake Palooza

While making a typical meal at home for her family, Roni Hanna Russ had a humbling realization. That realization led to a project that has now blessed around 300 local families.

60 120

The Arts of Coffee County

Coffee Alliance for the Arts Is Focused on Bringing the Best to the Community.

76 86

Nicholls

CITY OF

GEORGIA

707 VAN STREAT HIGHWAY, NICHOLLS, GA | 912.345.2421 6

coffee county magazine

TO OUR TEAM MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY, THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! LUKE AND NICOLE CHRISTIAN

DOUGLAS • WAYCROSS • TIFTON COMING SOON TO DUBLIN, MOULTRIE & JESUP WWW.SURCHEROS.COM

Hometown Living At Its Best

7

From the Publisher

Coffee County magazine

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

Jay and Patti Martin C r eat i v e | D e s i g n LOGIC4DESIGN.COM

Kelly McDonald Stacey Nichols Ryan Sichelstiel Mandi Spivey o f f i ce M a n age r Nikki Burkhalter A s s i s ta n t

A

As I sit here writing this letter, I have to confess that I’m a little distracted. I keep glancing over at my cell phone. Our youngest daughter, Makayla is headed to her OB/GYN doctor for her weekly visit. As all moms know, weekly visits mean baby can come visit grandparents at any time! So, please forgive me if I sound distracted – I am on Kinsley watch!!!

I hope you will agree with me that this issue contains a great variety of articles. We have tried to highlight people of varied ages and backgrounds.

We want you to either meet or remember people that have contributed or are contributing to Coffee County. Relax, curl up on your favorite couch or chair, and pour a cup of coffee or iced tea – depending on the ever changing weather – and enjoy this issue!

Please remember 3 things: 1) Thank the sponsors of this magazine listed on page 128.

2) Let us know about people, places and things that make Coffee County special. Our contact information is listed at the bottom of the page.

3) Finally – know that my youngest, pregnant daughter has NOT called me about my soon-to-be granddaughter’s (Kinsley) arrival. THAT’S JUST WRONG!!! (I’m impatiently waiting!)

John 10:10 Blessings,

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

Coffee county magazine

M a n age r s June Dixon

Julie P. Braly Makayla Sweeney P h otog r ap h e r s Anna Mobley

Kelly McDonald LOGIC4DESIGN.COM Maci Vickers Pamela Brigmond

C ov e r P h oto Adam Smith, taken by

Kelly McDonald Photography

Sale s Dottie Hicks

Patti Martin Kelly McDonald

Contributing

Writ e rs Jordan Calhoun

JoAnn Danna

Amy Hancock

Kelly McDonald

Jenna Musgrove

Coffee County Magazine© is published semi-annually

by With You in Mind Publications. www.hometown-living.com P.O. Box 55 • Glennville, GA 30427 (912) 654-3045 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

Stephanie, Kimberly, Jerrell, John, Rhett, Cindy, Patty

“Where Nice Matters�

J.M. Bailey Pharmacy, Inc. dba

Fulco Discount Drug Center 301 Shirley Avenue, Douglas, GA | John M. Bailey, Pharmacist

912.384.7026 Monday-Thursday 8:30-6:00 | Friday 8:30-4:30 | Closed on Saturday & Sunday We accept all Insurance / Medicare Part D / Georgia Medicaid Peachcare for Kids / Wellcare Bilingual | Family Owned & Operated | fulcodrugs@gmail.com Hometown Living At Its Best

9

be the

10

Coffee County magazine

Story by Jenna Musgrove

Citizens Christian Academy Senior, Cady Ray, is making a difference in her school, community, and state. She has a passion for helping others, and she does not let her age stop her from making things happen!

Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

This verse comes to mind when thinking about Cady Ray. She truly sets an example for others in the way she lives, cares, and serves others.

Organizing fundraisers, attending leadership conferences and placing wreaths on the graves of veterans may not sound like typical activities for a teenager, but Cady has done those things along with balancing academics, sports, and other community service opportunities. It may not be typical, but neither is Cady. She has a rare, special heart for others.

Cady is the daughter of Juran and Suzanne Ray, and she is currently a senior at Citizens Christian Academy in Douglas. Cady has two older siblings, Zach and Mandy. Mandy’s daughter Emma Grace is, as Cady describes her, “the best tea party host I have ever met.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

11

After graduation, Cady plans to attend ABAC to obtain a degree in nursing. Following that, she plans to transfer to GSU to obtain a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her desire is to be able to help people affected by various mental diseases and disorders.

12

Coffee County magazine

Cady was born in Hazlehurst and lived there for three years before her family moved to Douglas. She remembers her grandparents living directly behind her own home, so anytime she got in trouble, “Meme and Papa were a foot away.” Cady finds it humorous when her friends complain about there being “nothing to do” in Douglas. She reminds them that the hangout spots in Hazlehurst are Village Pizza and Dairy Queen. Cady may not have been born in Douglas, but she has always attended Citizens Christian Academy. The Rays are a well-known alumni family of the school. Cady’s Granny and Papa Ray helped build the school, her dad and uncle Buddy graduated from there, as did both of her siblings. Cady explains that attending CCA is a unique experience because most graduating classes from other schools equal the entire student body of CCA. After graduation, Cady plans to attend ABAC to obtain a degree in nursing. Following that, she plans to transfer to GSU to obtain a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her desire is to be able to help people affected by various mental diseases and disorders.

During her four years of high school, Cady has been a member of Key Club and has participated in One Act Play and literacy. She has also been a member of Leo Club since sixth grade, and presently serves as president. In addition to being actively involved in school clubs, she played basketball throughout middle school and two years of varsity. For the past two years, Cady has been a member and co-captain of the varsity cheer squad. Cady plays down her accomplishments by adding, “I have run track for the past three years. I hold the school record in pole vault, because I am the only person to ever attempt it.”

The stigma regarding private school students being stuck-up or not caring to be active in the community bothers Cady. While she acknowledges that it may be true for some, she is thankful that she “by the grace of God” was given parents and peers who taught her lessons in being respectful, humble, and kind. She would not categorize herself as the stereotypical “private school kid.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

13

Cady has several causes she is passionate about and chooses not to just sit back and let others raise funds and awareness.

Outside of school is where Cady’s heart for others truly shines. She shares her passion in saying, “The two main community projects I am very passionate about are the Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County and various projects involving our veterans.

CCAGCC holds various fundraisers and events all through the month of September.

My momma is a member, so I always have involvement in most of them. From tying gold bows around the city’s streets lights, walking up and down Jardine Stadium’s bleachers selling cupcakes, to helping organize the annual silent auction, CCAGCC does it all. I have never been personally affected by childhood cancer, but I have met some incredible people who have inspired me to fight for this cause.”

14

Coffee County magazine

She continues, “Douglas has some of the best community projects involving veterans.

CCA holds an annual Veterans Day program honoring those who served and are currently serving. Also, Wreaths Across America gives us the chance to place a wreath on every veteran’s grave in Coffee and surrounding counties.”

Leading in her community is something Cady has been shown by her family and friends, but also something that was cultivated as a result of attending the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership conference. She recalls her experience by sharing, “I attended over the summer two years ago with the intention of just leaving it with a good thing to put on my college applications. I did not know I would leave with a new look on life and with a group of such supportive friends.

In three days I became closer to these people than some people I have known forever. The program teaches you leadership skills through group activities and skill games.”

The conference has had a profound impact on Cady. “This year and last year I applied for junior staff for HOBY. This side of HOBY allowed me to not only learn more about how to be a leader, but also to help others become leaders in their community and the world.

These kids are so passionate about helping others and improving themselves for the better. HOBY believes that anyone can be a leader and I believe it is one-hundred percent true.”

Family and community met after a tragic loss in Cady’s life. Her papa passed away in 2016 after a long battle with dementia. She remembers, “When he died, I had already said ‘goodbye’ to him. This might sound weird, but he was not the same man I grew up with. His mind was taken away from him long before he became severely ill. I wanted to do more research and see what I could learn.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

15

Family and community met after a tragic loss in Cady’s life. Her papa passed away in 2016 after a long battle with dementia.

Cady came across the Alzheimer’s Association, Tifton Chapter, and sent an e-mail asking if CCA’s Leo Club could help the association in any way.

“A common misconception is that Alzheimer’s is different from dementia, but actually Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. However my Papa simply had dementia, not Alzheimer’s. I chose to support the Alzheimer’s Association, because I love how passionate the people who work there are and how they want anyone and everyone to become involved with their local association.”

Mrs. Betty Hankinson, who works with the Alzheimer’s Association, directed Cady to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. She encouraged Cady to start a team, and that is exactly what she did.

Cady created the Walk for Wayne team, and was incredibly overwhelmed with all of the support she received from Coffee County residents. She was also overwhelmed by how many people she knew

16

Coffee County magazine

personally who have had to deal with dementia in some way. She shares, “It was amazing how people opened up about family members who had dementia and how hard it was to see them struggle. I was able to raise over $3,000 for the walk.”

Later in 2016, Cady was asked to visit the Alzheimer’s Association Institute in Atlanta to learn more about the political information regarding dementia. Cady was honored by this and says, “I was asked to go to our state representatives and state senators and ask them if they would support these laws and allow them to be passed. I am very excited to continue working with them and see what the future holds.”

Be the change you wish to see in the world.

Cady has several causes she is passionate about and chooses not to just sit back and let others raise funds and awareness.  CCM

Speech, Language, Voice, And Swallowing Therapy

NOW OFFERING MOBILE THERAPY as well as transport services to all of our locations

March Is Better Speech & Hearing Month & we’re offering free speech screenings at each location

118 N. Pearl Ave . Douglas, GA. 31533

(912) 331.0846 Serving Southeast GA From Four locations: Douglas, Hazlehurst, Fitzgerald, Nicholls Hometown Living At Its Best

17

Goodbye Goodbye Goodbye Goodbye Periods.

Periods.

Periods.

Periods.

Hello Hello Hello Hello Freedom.

Freedom.

Freedom.

Freedom.

End End The The Cycle.

Cycle. Stop Stop Heavy Heavy Periods.

Periods.

End Cycle.

Stop Periods.

Start Living A Full End The The Cycle.

Stop Heavy Periods.

Start Living A Heavy Full Life.

Life.

Start A Life.

Start Living Living A Full Full Life.

NovaSure Endometrial Ablation, available at Coffee Women’s Center. ®

NovaSure® Endometrial Ablation, available at Coffee Women’s Center.

You no longer have to endure heavy menstrual cycles thanks to this safe, simple and ® You no longer have to endure heavy menstrual cycles thanks to this safe, simple and NovaSure Endometrial Ablation, available at Coffee Women’s Center. proven procedure.

Call now forAblation, a consultation andat lighten upWomen’s your daysCenter. in minutes.

NovaSure® Endometrial available Coffee proven procedure.

Call now for a consultation and lighten upto your minutes.

You no longer have to endure heavy menstrual cycles thanks thisdays safe,insimple and You no longer have to endure heavy menstrual cycles thanks to this safe, simple and proven procedure. Call (912) now for a consultation and lighten up your days in minutes.

384-2500 • coffeeregional.org proven procedure. Call (912) now for a consultation and lighten up your days in minutes.

384-2500 • coffeeregional.org (912) 384-2500 • coffeeregional.org (912) 384-2500 • coffeeregional.org

Dr. Steve Dr. Steve Diamond Diamond Dr. Steve Dr. Steve Diamond Diamond 18

Dr. Brad Dr. Brad Goldberg Goldberg Dr. Brad Dr. Brad Goldberg Goldberg

coffee county magazine

Dr. Jesse Dr.Kane Jesse Kane Dr. Jesse Dr.Kane Jesse Kane

Amanda Bice, Amanda Bice, WHNP-BC WHNP-BC Amanda Bice, WHNP-BC Amanda Bice, WHNP-BC

Angie Brewer, Angie Brewer, FNP-C FNP-C Angie Brewer, Angie Brewer, FNP-C FNP-C

Meg Minchew, Meg PA-C Minchew, PA-C Meg Minchew, Meg PA-C Minchew, PA-C

Hometown Living At Its Best

19

big heart

20

Coffee County magazine

Jerome Loving’s whole life had prepared him for doing your best no matter the situation.

Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald

W

“When I was a boy my older brother would come home on leave from the Army in his uniform. When he walked through the door he looked 10 feet tall, and I remember thinking back then that I wanted to be like that, too!,” said Jerome Loving.

Jerome “Sugarman” Loving came from a childhood that could have resulted in a much different outcome. His mother died when he was only 1 year and 2 months old. Being the baby of 14 children, he was raised primarily by his older brothers and sisters. He was an African-American male growing up in the deep south in the 1960’s. He attended segregated schools most of his life and lived in a time where he knew all the places he was not allowed to go. Jerome never even thought to succumb to the pressures of what life had dealt him. Instead, he excelled in basketball, baseball, track and band in school. In 1969 and 1970, his senior year, he attended a newly integrated Coffee County High School where he graduated with honors. He was the only African-American male to do so. “Even being the baby, I grew up with great discipline and was taught to respect authority and that totally prepared me for life,” said Jerome.

Jerome never even thought to succumb to the pressures of what life had dealt him.

Instead, he excelled in basketball, baseball, track and band in school. In 1969 and 1970, his senior year, he attended a newly integrated Coffee County High School where he graduated with honors.

Hometown Living At Its Best

21

Since Commander Loving joined the post, membership soared from 45 to over 200.

The post has also been renovated and started to receive coveted awards, the best of which came in 2015 when they reached their goal and won the Most Outstanding Post in the state of Georgia. “It truly was a team effort,� Jerome says full of pride.

22

Coffee County magazine

After graduation Jerome knew there was more meant for him out there in the world. Three of his older brothers had gone into the United States Army before him, so he full-heartedly followed suit. Jerome enlisted in the middle of the Vietnam War era fully aware what his fate could hold. “It was rather easy,” Jerome recalls about basic and AIT training at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. After basic training he completed Airborne School in Fort Benning, Georgia, and was then sent to Vietnam. His whole life had prepared him for doing your best no matter what the situation. He completely credits his hard-working father, older brothers and sisters, and extended neighborhood family for his drive and success.

Jerome’s military career included overseas assignments to Vietnam, Germany, Italy, and Korea. Stateside assignments were at Fort Campbell, KY; Fort Bliss, TX; Fort Gillem, GA; and Fort Benning, GA where he served as a Drill Sergeant. “I loved being a Drill Sergeant…I witnessed boys become men,” said Jerome.

Hometown Living At Its Best

23

After his stellar military career, Jerome worked for 12 years as a civilian employee of the Department of the Army. During that time he was responsible for training military emergency responders for their missions with Homeland Defense and Homeland Security. In March of 2007, Jerome retired and moved back to his hometown of Douglas. “I always knew I would be coming home one day,� recalls Jerome.

Jerome later joined Post 515 of his local American Legion. He had declined the invitation to join three times because of the bad condition of the post and lack of American Legion Programs and Activities. Members continued to ask him to join and help turn it around. In March of 2008, Jerome to join but with one condition - that the post be run like it was supposed to be. During one of the first meetings, the members with a list of goals which included things such as meeting practices and agendas, activities, and working towards becoming the best Post in the state. Those are high hopes for most, but a true goal for the former Drill Sergeant.

24

Coffee County magazine

All his life and military training kicked in, and he devoted himself full-time to Post 515 and rebuilding it from the ground up.

“Once I got started, I couldn’t stop!,” said Jerome. He joined as a member in March and was made Commander in June. “We had a long way to go, but I was positive we could get there,” Jerome added. After a full year of hard work and not much progress, Jerome had a long conversation with his wife, Vivian, about the state of the post. Practicing the “Loving” way of doing things, Vivian encouraged him to proceed full steam ahead. Jerome took her words to heart. In 2009, he decided the members needed some continuing education in policies, procedures, etc., so he six members to the American Legion College

He completely credits his hard-working father, his older brothers and sisters, and his extended neighborhood family for his drive and success.

Hometown Living At Its Best

25

All his life and military training kicked in, and he devoted himself full-time to Post 515 and rebuilding it from the ground up. “Once I got started, I couldn’t stop!,” said Jerome. He joined as a member in March and was made Commander in June.

“We had a long way to go, but I was positive we could get there,” Jerome added. After a full year of hard work and not much progress, Jerome had a long conversation with his wife, Vivian, about the state of the post.

Practicing the “Loving” way of doing things, Vivian encouraged him to proceed full steam ahead. Jerome took her words to heart. In 2009, he decided the members needed some continuing education in policies, procedures, etc., so he six members to the American Legion College of North America. “They came back fired up to make the changes we needed from the inside out,” smiled Jerome.

of North America. “They came back fired up to make the changes we needed from the inside out,” smiled Jerome.

One of the first things they did was recruit new members, specifically younger members. He asked the members to help fight the battle of improving the post. Even in retirement his military perspective prevailed. “We continued to create programs to benefit Veterans and our community. Veterans are the most important. They are why we are here. They are why we are who we are,” said Jerome.

26

Coffee County magazine

In 2010, the community started responding.

“They could see we were on the right track.

Numerous local projects were initiated: Thanksgiving baskets and Christmas toy drives; feeding needy or bereaved families; offering academic and Oratorical scholarships; Boys State; and counseling and assisting veterans with rides to VA appointments. In 2012, they helped restore Upton Cemetery, a historic black American Cemetery that was established in the 1800’s. In 2014, they helped the National Wreaths Across America Day, an annual wreath-laying ceremony, which is Jerome’s favorite. “It is a way to REMEMBER – HONOR AND TEACH,” he said.

Since Commander Loving joined the post, membership soared from 45 to over 200. The post has also been renovated and started to receive coveted awards, the best of which came in 2015 when they reached their goal and won the Most Outstanding Post in the state of Georgia. “It truly was a team effort,” Jerome says full of pride.

In addition to the members, he also thanks his wife, four children, and the citizens of Douglas and Coffee County for their generous support throughout the years. Whenever he receives a request for help, he always has a quick response from friends willing to show up.

When asked why did he feels so passionate about helping those in need, Jerome replied, “Do you remember how I told you I was brought up? I was a product of discipline and love from family and neighbors. People who didn’t have to take me in, did. People who didn’t have to care, did.

Now it is my turn to give.” His motto is “a job worth doing is worth doing well and doing right, the first time.”

In case you were wondering where “Sugarman” comes from, it was a nickname given to him by his dad. His dad told him that he was the sweetest baby he had. Sweet as sugar. Before his dad passed away, he and Jerome’s 10-foot-tall brother visited him at Fort Benning and witnessed his success as well as his love for his job and country.  CCM

Hometown Living At Its Best

27

Welcome Home Manor House is a privately owned Assisted Living facility located in Douglas, GA. We offer personal care as well as memory care.

Let us help you take care of your loved one’s needs.

Manor House SENIOR LIVING

28

coffee county magazine

1360 W Gordon St, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-6522

30

coffee county magazine

Creating

hometown habitats

with the Help of Vincent Gardens Vincent Gardens is a mail order nursery business in Douglas, GA, with a specialization of providing plants for residential and commercial use. Owner Donna Vincent considers what she does as a way to preserve the hometown habitats found in the plants she grows and uses her knowledge to teach others to create landscapes that are beneficial to nature and wildlife.

STORY BY |Amy Hancock PHOTOS BY | Derek Harrison, Kelly McDonald and Wayne Morgan

Hometown Living At Its Best

31

F

Few people can have a passion for something and be able to turn that passion into a business. Donna Vincent of Vincent Gardens has done just that. She has taken her love of wildlife and blended it with gardening to create a mail order nursery located in Douglas, Georgia. The small, unassuming sign with the Vincent Gardens butterfly logo at the end of the driveway does not reflect the busyness happening behind the scenes at the nursery. Few people know where the business is located, but many from around the country know its products.

Vincent Gardens is a family-owned business and certified by the Georgia Department of Agriculture Live Plant Division. This certification allows Vincent Gardens to operate a mail order nursery with a specialization of providing quality plants

32

coffee county magazine

for residential and commercial use. As owner and operator, Donna says the nursery strives to be knowledgeable and stock the plants that will encourage wildlife to visit garden habitats. The nursery provides native plants that will specifically attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

The nursery is also stocked with drought tolerant perennials, woody ornamental shrubs, native plants and trees. All perennials and shrubs are grown under natural conditions, using high quality potting media, and slow release fertilizer. Donna takes pride in explaining that she does not use harmful chemicals on the plants that kill pollinators, beneficial insects, and wildlife. This creates a high quality product that doesn’t leave a harmful footprint behind.

Donna has a world of information and expertise

with a wide variety of plants and loves to talk about all things gardening. She feels it is in her genes. Her family has always farmed and she spent much of her childhood outdoors. She took that interest and began educating herself in the areas she found most intriguing. Always fascinated by butterflies, she knew plants used to attract butterflies and wildlife were of interest to her. In 1996, she took a Master Gardener’s class. Part of the course requirements were to volunteer in the community. Her first step was to lead her son’s school, Westside Elementary, into creating a school garden. It was such a success that she became known around the halls as the Garden Lady. She ended up volunteering an average of 100 hours per year at the school. She did this because as she says, “I enjoy sowing seeds from the

love of my heart.” As he moved out of elementary school and the curriculum became less involved with teaching pollination, she began looking at other things to do with her interests.

In 2004, Donna started building on a dream she had. When she was a teenager, she helped her father, a trucker, with the logistics of his moving and shipping business. By the time she was 18, she was managing his company. She learned from a few of his workers all the correct ways to pack and ship. She considered herself a “professional packer” because of her experience. Naturally, her dream developed into the idea to put the two together and became a shipper of plants she grew in her own nursery. What started as a supplemental hobby turned into a full-blown mail order business.

Hometown Living At Its Best

33

She applied for and received her grower’s license and began the process of building her stock. The internet was gaining strength and attention during this time so she knew it was a good time to start an online presence.

Over the course of the next few years, a few things in her life took precedent over the dream. She missed the day to day task of planning the business model but she used that time to master her craft and learn what plants she would specialize in once she began the business full-time.

By the time 2006 rolled around, Donna was ready to take the leap of faith and put a name to her dream. Vincent Gardens was born. Her focus became plants that would attract pollinators and now she grows 70% of the plants that she ships.

She wants people locally and around the country to go to her online market to find plants, shrubs, and trees that are not found commonly in the big box stores or nurseries in town. Salvia is considered

34

coffee county magazine

her specialty plant and she focuses on growing things that serve as butterfly larva hosts and attracts wildlife. She is in the process of creating a habitat at her home filled with plants not found as often as they once were such as hop wafer ash and red buckeye. This will serve as a display garden for the nursery.

The last two years has seen her business triple.

She feels it is because of the renewed awareness of the loss of habitats, the importance of the ecosystem and the dangers of chemical use in gardening and farming. Around the country, more people want to be more environmentally sensitive. The items at Vincent Gardens meet that need. She also credits much of the success to the support of her husband, Roger Vincent, Sr., son, Roger, Jr., and McKenzie Crosby who began working with her in the 10th grade in high school. He has spent four years helping at the nursery and particularly enjoys the propagation of plants. That love and his work have

Hometown Living At Its Best

35

become the foundation for the many plants she has now.

Donna wants to continually grow in her craft and take an active role in the revival of specialized plants. She is a member of the Backyard’s Growers Association, the Georgia Native Plant Society, and the only Georgia member of the Florida Association of Native Nurseries (FANN). She is a traveling nursery to special events serving as a vendor for programs such as the University of Georgia Symposium, the Cobb County Master Gardeners event, and the Oconee Area Citizen Advocacy’s gardens on tour event held in Eatonton. She is available to set up as a vendor at future events and would also like to use students as interns when available. She wants the idea of establishing hometown habitats to live on through the generations that follow.

She enjoys spreading her love of gardening to her local community. In September 2016, she joined forces with the Douglas Chamber of Commerce when she hosted a Fall Gardening Symposium at the Atrium Event Center in downtown Douglas.

Donna Vincent uses the tagline of “Beautifying Our World with Wildlife in Mind.” That vision has turned her passion and business into what it is today.

For those interested in gardening or creating habitats at home or the office, Vincent Gardens can become your one-stop shop. The nursery stock is competitively priced and ready to transplant directly into one’s garden.

It is a mail order nursery only and the products can be viewed at www.vincentgardens.com. CCM

36

coffee county magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

37

COLLINS CARDIOLOGY Dr. Darrel Collins - Tara Spivey, PA-C

Evaluation & Follow Up Care for all Heart Problems Congestive Heart Failure • Pacemaker Checks • High Blood Pressure Chest Pain • Shortness of Breath 1208 Ocilla Road, Douglas, Georgia 31533 | 912.384.6276 | www.CollinsCardiologyGa.com New Patients Welcome

38

coffee county magazine

Caring for the Heart

Colorscience | Pure Fiji Permanent Cosmetics | Chemical Peel | Massage Therapy Laser Skin Rejuvenation | Skin Analysis | Weight Management 3D/4D Ultrasound | Flawless Mineral Make-Up Micro-Needling | Sclerotherapy Cosmeceuticals by Revision & Obagi | Body Wraps & Body Waxing Restylane | Botox & Dysport Cosmetics Deep Pore Facials | Microdermabrasion JuveDerm | OxyGeneo Superfacial | Bellafill

medAesthetics RONI JO RUSS, PA

ANGEL STEVERSON, LMT CHRISTY WILLIAMS, LE WWW.SAFEBEAUTYPLACE.COM

117 W BRYAN ST, DOUGLAS, GA | (912) 384-2555 AND 503 CITY BOULEVARD, WAYCROSS, GA | (912) 548-1999 Hometown Living At Its Best

39

the best and the

Brightest Story by Jenna Musgrove

40

Coffee County magazine

Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

C

“Coffee County is not in the middle of nowhere, but the middle of everywhere. It’s a remarkable place to be.” Adam Smith, a Coffee County native, truly means these words.

In 2015, Georgia Trend named Adam as one of its Top 40 under 40. As a member of the 19th annual list of nominees, Adam was presented with this honor among a group of 40 outstanding Georgians under the age of 40 – the state’s best and brightest. The honorees represented business, government, politics, nonprofits, science, healthcare and education.

Hometown Living At Its Best

41

42

Coffee County magazine

Adam, like many South Georgians, grew up on a family farm. He was born in Douglas and lived here until he left to finish his college education. A graduate of Coffee High School, Adam attended South Georgia College, the University of Georgia and then Colorado State University. The move to Fort Collins, Colorado to do graduate work in applied economics proved to be fruitful for Adam.

There he completed a Master’s of Science degree and met his future wife, Amanda.

Like all successful people, Adam gives credit to others for helping him become the person he is There is something to be said about Adam Smith doing these things and his decision to return home, only minutes from the farm he grew up on. He is at home in Coffee County to live, work, and raise a family with his dear wife, Amanda, and his children whom he cherishes, Scott (4) and Vianne (9 months).

Hometown Living At Its Best

43

today. He explains, “Obviously, my parents, Ricky and Joy Smith of Ambrose, have been my biggest influence. They taught me that hard work and giving of one’s self can lead to a rich and fulfilling life. Beyond my parents, I found guidance from my teachers. At Ambrose Elementary, it seemed like everyone from the Principal to the lunchroom ladies were trying to help each student be great.”

The influence of others did not stop there.

He continues, “In middle school, Mrs. Jeannine Dovers not only taught me math, but gave realworld advice that sticks with me to this day. One of my favorite quotes by her was after I made an unnecessary comment in class. She paused, looked over her glasses and said: ‘Son, it is better to keep your mouth shut and let people think you are ignorant than to open it and remove all doubt.”’

In high school, several other teachers also left Adam with memories and valuable lifelong lessons. He tells, “It was Michael Berry and Mike Tanner who taught me that there is just as much to learn outside of the classroom as sitting at a desk.”

Language Arts teacher, Dana Davenport, helped Adam deal with tragedy: “When I lost my best friend in a four-wheeler accident, she was there for me and encouraged me to ‘get my emotions out through writing.’ Todd Womack made history come alive by telling us the stories behind the stories of what was going on.”

At what is now South Georgia State College,

In 2015, Georgia Trend named Adam as one of its Top 40 under 40. As a member of the 19th annual list of nominees, Adam was presented with this honor among a group of 40 outstanding Georgians under the age of 40 – the state’s best and brightest.

The honorees represented business, government, politics, nonprofits, science, healthcare and education.

44

Coffee County magazine

Adam shares that Grace James was a great advisor and that Charles Johnson “made you want to learn about physical science.” It went beyond academics there too. “You could feel how these people cared for you and knew they wanted you to succeed.”

Adam is an officer and commercial lender with First National Bank of Coffee County in Douglas; although he had initially pursued a different career path. He shares, “I never Adam, like many South Georgians, grew up on a family farm.

He was born in Douglas and lived here until he left to finish his college education. A graduate of Coffee High School, Adam attended South Georgia College, the University of Georgia and then Colorado State University. The move to Fort Collins, Colorado to do graduate work in applied economics proved to be fruitful for Adam. There he completed a Master’s of Science degree and met his future wife, Amanda.

Hometown Living At Its Best

45

“Coffee County is not in the middle of nowhere, but the middle of everywhere.

It’s a remarkable place to be.” planned on being a banker. After graduate school, I never planned on moving back to Georgia or even moving back to Douglas. As a fresh grad, I wanted to work in economics.” Adam applied and interviewed with several mid-sized companies that were growing to the point of needing an on-site economist. At the time, he was traveling between north Georgia and central Florida. In doing so, he would stay with his parents as a midpoint. He also visited several business owners in Douglas to let them know that he was out of school. He shared with them that he was looking for a job with the hope that they would pass along his resume or refer him to their contacts; unaware that some of them were FNBCC Board Members. “I was traveling back from Central Florida and had been offered employment from my top two prospects. Out of the blue, someone from the bank called and asked me if I had ever thought about being a banker. I said that I hadn’t. FNBCC’s offer was comparable, so I decided to be a banker.”

It is no wonder that Theodore “Teddy” Parrish, owner of Parrish Capital, LLC, an investment firm in the Atlanta-area, nominated Adam for Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40. The two met through Leadership Georgia and Adam and Teddy became friends through their common connections and experiences.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ADAM SMITH

46

Coffee County magazine

After working at FNBCC for a year, Adam made the move to a peanut shelling plant as their Quality Control Manager. He was there for one peanut season when FNBCC President, Dale Morris, contacted him and said he wanted Adam back at the bank. “I’m not sure what he saw in me, but I’m thankful every day that he made that decision. That’s been almost 10 years ago.”

Adam jokes that his position at the bank is “whatever the situation calls for.” Dale advised Adam early on, “If it’s good for the bank and

good for the customers - do it.” He comments that Dale and the Board of Directors truly want this community to thrive. This is evident in FNBCC’s customers’ level of satisfaction and the bank’s overall support and involvement in so many aspects of life here in Coffee County. Adam exclaims, “FNBCC is truly a great place to be a part of!”

Aside from his duties at the bank, Adam knows the importance of service and he does so in multiple capacities. Within the bank and

Hometown Living At Its Best

47

in addition to his normal obligations, he oversees the FNBCC Junior Board of Directors Program. Local and regional boards he serves on include: The Coffee Regional Medical Center, the Community Foundation of Coffee County, the Coffee Health Alliance (Chair), the Southern GA Regional Commission, the Economic Development Authority (Vice-chair), and the Jobs Development Council (Chair). At the state level, he is an alum of the Leadership Georgia Class of 2014. Furthermore, he serves on the Leadership Division Board of Directors for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia and the Agriculture Committee of the Georgia Bankers Association. Recently, Adam was named Region 11 Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and is a member of its Board of Governors.

It is no wonder that Theodore “Teddy” Parrish, owner of Parrish Capital, LLC, an investment firm in the Atlanta-area, nominated Adam for Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40. The two met through Leadership Georgia and Adam and Teddy became friends through their common connections and experiences. Teddy is originally from Folkston, Georgia and attended South Georgia College. Teddy was a 40 under 40 nominee himself, in 2009.

There is something to be said about those who work hard, achieve success, and remain true to their roots. There is something to be said about Adam Smith doing these things and his decision to return home, only minutes from the farm he grew up on. He is at home in Coffee County to live, work, and raise a family with his dear wife, Amanda, and his children whom he cherishes, Scott (4) and Vianne (9 months).  CCM

48

Coffee County magazine

206 N. Madison Ave | Douglas, GA. 31533 | 912-384-HOME (4663)

WHEN YOU’RE RANKED #1, IT’S YOUR PATIENTS WHO WIN. Coffee Regional named #1 Small Hospital by Georgia Trend Magazine.

By assuring exemplary clinical performance and exceptional care, the team at Coffee Regional delivers award-winning service every day. We understand that the little details can improve patient care and help us make a big impact in the lives of our patients.

For more information, visit coffeeregional.org or call (912) 384-1900.

CRMC17_0004 AD_GA-Trend_8-125x5-5.indd 1

Hometown Living At Its Best

49

1/30/17 4:31 PM

“I wasn’t going to let LEG PAIN & PAD control my daily life!”

You could have PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease) ... 50% of cases go undiagnosed!

PAD Symptoms include: Fatigue during walking/stairs • Pain in legs and/or feet Slow healing sores or wounds • Color changes in skin of feet Lower temperature • Poor nail growth

DOUGLAS VASCULAR CENTER

Diagnosing PAD can be done by performing a simple non-invasive exam. Call for appointment.

William H. Davis, MD Fellow, American College of Surgeons Registered Vascular Technologist William Joseph Kaiser III, MD, FACS Fellow, American College of Surgeons Registered Vascular Technologist Allison Bell, MSPAS, PA-C

326 Shirley Ave., Douglas | www.douglasvascular.com | 912.384.0322

We love having you here!

Breakfast is on the house.

Mention that you saw this ad in the Coffee County Magazine for a discount!

1604 South Peterson Avenue | Douglas, GA | 912.383.7550 50

coffee county magazine

A-1 Cleaning &

Restoration Fire, Mold, Water, and Storm Damage 24/7 Emergency Response Team

896 W Baker Hwy | Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 393-3537

218 WEST WARD STREET IN DOUGLAS

Proud ly serving Douglas...

912.384.2270

FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

Hometown Living At Its Best

51

52

coffee county magazine

STORY BY JORDAN CALHOUN | PHOTOS BY KELLY MCDONALD

THERE’S NO BIZ LIKE

Sno Biz

S

Summers in Coffee County are notorious for more than a high heat index and debilitating humidity. The fireworks at Jardine Stadium, early morning swim team practice at the city pool, and lazy rounds of golf are all characteristic of a true Douglas summer. But one tradition stands in infamy as the cure-all to even the stickiest, sweatiest, dog days of summer: purchasing an afternoon treat at Sno Biz. Of course, I use “afternoon” loosely as many have been known to swing through the Sno Biz drive-thru just after 10 a.m. Truly, very few can resist the siren’s call of shaved ice and homemade lemonade that beckons from Cherry Street in Douglas. And for just a few bucks a pop, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a chilly treat?

Purchased in 2000 by Trish Harper, the acquisition of Sno Biz

Hometown Living At Its Best

53

Getting To Know You “It’s unbelievable how many people come every day, and we get to know a lot of them.”

resulted from a mix of convenience and opportunity.

“We had this convenience store, Harper Valley, and we were trying to get rid of it. The day that we closed the store was the day that I signed to buy Sno Biz,” Trish explained.

Sno Biz, while very much a hometown establishment in Coffee County, is a global chain that operates over 2,000 franchise locations in 20 countries and almost every state. The company, which was started in 1989 by Tom Novetzke of Minnesota, boasts a passion for quality that is evident in its Douglas location.

While the employees at Sno Biz feel

54

coffee county magazine

like family for some of its more frequent patrons, the business actually is a family affair. Trish’s daughter, Corie, works in the stand and has fond memories of shaved ice from a very young age.

“We actually used to go there when we were kids. My grandmother-in-law has a picture of my fiancé and me sitting at that same table outside the Sno Biz. She used to take us there when we were little. We couldn’t have been more than seven or eight. We loved to go there,” Corie remembered about her childhood visits to what has become the family business.

Sno Biz currently employs 4 people, including Corie and Trish, who work tirelessly to serve their over 200 customers per day. While the stand’s busiest times are May-July, it sees a steady stream of business from the time it opens in late February to its seasonal close on December 1st.

“It gets pretty hectic here sometimes,” Corie laughed when thinking about their summer rush.

“It’s unbelievable how many people come every

day, and we get to know a lot of them.”

With its vast flavor options and menu to fit any budget, it’s not surprising that Sno Biz has so many faithful patrons lining up for cups of shaved ice each day. Currently, the stand stocks about 50 basic flavors- meaning they aren’t mixed with anything. When these flavors start combining with one another, Sno Biz offers over 100 flavor options as well as a crème sauce addition to satisfy even the pickiest palate. Each year, the stand receives new flavors from corporate to try out. Most recently, Sno Biz began selling chocolate, blackberry, and cheesecake flavors.

“Sometimes the new flavors last, sometimes they don’t. But these flavors seem to be pretty popular. We especially have people wanting to mix flavors with cheesecake. We had a girl come through the drive-thru who mixed kiwi with it!”

Corie remarked about the popularity of their newest flavors.

While most mixes and recommended

Hometown Living At Its Best

55

Flavors For All “Sometimes the new flavors last, sometimes they don’t. But these flavors seem to be pretty popular. We especially have people wanting to mix flavors with cheesecake. We had a girl come through the drive-thru who mixed kiwi with it!”

combinations come from Sno Biz Corporate, the Douglas location does have some autonomy when it comes to flavor creativity.

“A lot of times when we add a new flavor, some people that come through the drive-thru will come up with a mix and we’ll name it if we think its name worthy. When we don’t have many customers, we’ll shave a bit of ice and just mix different flavors together,” Corie explained about the scientific process with which they determine new flavors. “For instance, cantaloupe wasn’t a big seller and I thought it could be. So we came up with Melon Melody which is a combination of cantaloupe, watermelon, and banana.”

Although the classic basic flavors remain popular, many flavor combinations have really taken off. In fact, the most popular flavors among adults are Georgia Peach and Tiger’s Blood. The most popular flavors among children are Frog in a Blender, Cotton Candy, and Rainbow.

“You have to try coconut, chocolate, and cream. It tastes just like a coconut macaroon!” Corie recommended.

When asked about their own favorite flavors, both Corie and Trish laughed.

“My mom doesn’t actually care to eat them. She doesn’t really eat sweets,” Corie explained.

“If I eat them, I like to mix pomegranate and mango,” laughed Trish.

In addition to their infamous shaved ice, Sno Biz has also added fresh squeezed lemonade to its menu.

“My mom started that just a couple years ago and

56

coffee county magazine

people have fallen in love with her lemonade. She’s the only one who makes it and it’s truly homemade lemonade,” Corie said about the new menu item.

“You can’t really get homemade lemonade anywhere anymore,” Trish added. “It’s always the mix. This is the real thing.”

Both Trish and Corie say their favorite thing about owning the stand is interacting with the many customers who visit often and getting to build relationships with them. They also enjoy getting to share space with one another as they grow their business.

“We prefer to work with each other because we’ve been there so long and we know what to do without having to tell one another. We get along great and we work really well together,” Corie explained about her working relationship with her mom.

As they go into the future, the Harper women are talking about potentially expanding their business into Waycross but are currently content with the size and location of their stand. In fact, business is so good that they have a hard time finding time to renovate the existing location.

When she isn’t working at Sno Biz, Corie works with her fiancé managing Veal’s Lawn Care and is a first year soccer coach at Atkinson Middle School following seven years of coaching at Coffee County High School.

As for me, when the sun gets hot and my spirits get low, I’ll take a Flat Frog in the blender, please. And if my day has been especially long, make it a Piña Colada.  CCM

PPoviding Insurance and Financial Services.

Where I can live on campus or commute from home.

Where I can save money while earning my associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Where I can make lifelong friendships.

Where I can get the support I need to build a solid foundation for my future.

What are you waiting for?

Your next chapter at SGSC awaits...enroll today! www.sgsc.edu | hawknation@sgsc.edu Douglas: 912.260.4206 | Waycross: 912.449.7600 Hometown Living At Its Best

57

Embroidery, baby clothes & accessories, purses, bags, shirts. | Free embroidery of items purchased here.

Full-color printing of banners, signs, decals, posters, business cards, magnets & more.

Screen print & heat transfer for clothes, bags, hats, koozies, whatever you want.

912.260.1129 245 W. Ward Street Douglas, GA

58

coffee county magazine

Mon - Tues 9am - 5:30pm Wed 9am - 4pm Thurs 9am - 5:30pm Fri 8:30 am - 5pm

Family Owned

Vaughn’s

Nursery

Landscaping | Fern rentals | concrete ornaments (animals, bird baths, benches etc) artificial pine straw | A wide variety of annual and perennial flowers

373 Frank Vaughn Rd, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 260-1154 Hometown Living At Its Best

59

60

Coffee County magazine

story & photos by Kelly McDonald

Ryan and Megan Solomon are working as hunting guides, living their dream and calling it work.

Ryan and Megan were high school sweethearts both attended Coffee County High School and were born and raised in Douglas.

They were looking forward to graduation and what the future had in store for them, never realizing where life would lead them.

Megan went off to South Georgia College and the University of Georgia where she received a degree in Child and Family Development and eventually a bachelors in Nursing. Away at different colleges, the two made an agreement to never spend more than 2 weeks apart, so

Photo by Danny farris

Photo by Andrew Murray

Hometown Living At Its Best

61

As a small boy, Ryan remembers he and his brothers filming themselves hunting back at the Gopher and now he was being handed a camera to film for both Easton Bowhunting and Predator Nation.

62

Coffee County magazine

every other weekend one of them was making the drive to see the other. Ryan went on to ABAC and then graduated with a Masters in Accounting from Valdosta State University. Yes, a future accountant who scheduled college classes around his passion for guiding hunters on his grandfather’s property, The Gopher Plantation.

“I was raised with a dad and three brothers who were all avid outdoorsmen, but I had never met anyone with this kind of obsession for being in the woods as when I started dating Ryan,” says Megan. “I knew when hunting season started I would eventually see him when it was all over.” Somehow the couple

Hometown Living At Its Best

63

Photo by danny farris

64

Coffee County magazine

fit in a wedding in 2012 and the birth of their charming little girl, Syndal, a few years later.

Out of the blue Ryan received a phone call from Daniel Thomas, a producer from Realtree, asking him if he would be interested in going to shoot birds in Kansas and Colorado. Daniel was the brother of Ryan’s old college roommate and needed a model for the new Max 5 and Max 1 Camo. It took Ryan one short phone call to run it past his wife before he eagerly accepted. Farming was slow that time of year, so Ryan set out to have an

“I get a bigger thrill out of guiding a client and letting him get the kill than getting the kill myself.” adventure. While in Colorado, Ryan met and quickly bonded with Fred Eichler. Fred is the owner of Full Draw Outfitters located in south central Colorado, and has two TV shows, Easton Bowhunting and Predator Nation, on the Sportsman Channel.

“Fred is a self-made man and I really respected that. We became friends instantly.” On the last day of filming, Fred took Ryan the long way home, touring the land and all it had to offer. “I think he was selling me on the job then and I didn’t even know it,” laughs Ryan. After a short 3 days together Ryan left with Fred saying, “If you ever want to guide for me, let me know.” Ryan returned home and thought it could be a dream job, but he had a wife, a baby, and a place on the plantation, so he let the thought go. “I have always heard Ryan talk about hunters he enjoyed watching

As the season started to end, Fred found more reasons from them all to stay. It was becoming obvious that this was their new home. “Fred and his wife, Michele, took us in like family,” Megan says. “They are completely down to earth and such great people.” Ryan now had access to over 1 million acres of public land and 2 hundred thousand private. Not bad for a young hunter from Coffee County.

Hometown Living At Its Best

65

the real hunt

His whole life had prepared him for the struggles of a cameraman to stay calm and not flinch at a shot. “Fred once told me that he would rather have a hunter film than a videographer for all those reasons.� The two are definitely in sync and know what the other is thinking. It makes for an intense television show that puts the viewer within inches of the real hunt.

Photo by danny farris

66

Coffee County magazine

but nothing like the way he continually spoke about Fred.” Megan remembers Shortly after returning home, Ryan had the opportunity to sell his part of the farming business and focus on guiding full time. “It was just what I loved,” said Ryan about the joy of what this “accountant” had decided to do for a career.

“It was Megan who brought up the possibility of working for Fred again,” Ryan said. Months later the dream was still in the back of his mind. Even if they only went for one guiding season, what a story that would be! “Everything would have to align perfectly to go,” Ryan recalls as he sent Fred a quick text. His phone rang minutes later with an excited future boss and friend on the other end. “It is a true testament to what kind of wife I have that she packed us and the baby up, moved across the country, never having even met Fred yet.”

Ryan remembers his grandpa and his family being excited for his opportunity to spend a hunting season out in the mountains. Megan’s parents were a little less enthusiastic about the thought of their grandbaby moving so far away, but knew this would just be temporary and a great experience. Ryan and Megan took off to the picturesque Spanish Peaks in Gulnare, Colorado, 45 minutes from the closest town, gas station, grocery store, or life as they had known it. “It was amazing,” said Ryan who found himself completely in his element.

One of the first days guiding Ryan and his client got a shot at a 5x5 and the second day they got a cow with a bow. “Fred trusted me, and let me do what I do,” Ryan said. He had full confidence in Ryan’s ability and drive.

Ryan’s family had raised a hard worker that wasn’t afraid to show up every day

“It was Megan who brought up the possibility of working for Fred again,” Ryan said. Months later the dream was still in the back of his mind. Even if they only went for one guiding season, what a story that would be!

“Everything would have to align perfectly to go,” Ryan recalls as he sent Fred a quick text. His phone rang minutes later with an excited future boss and friend on the other end. “It is a true testament to what kind of wife I have that she packed us and the baby up, moved across the country, never having even met Fred yet.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

67

Now that Megan helps cook for the guided hunters, they do get to see each other during the day, even if it’s just for lunch.

In June and July, Ryan and Megan focus solely on their little family. They fish and take beach trips to spend as much as time as possible with Syndal. They also come back home to Douglas and the Gopher every chance they get.

68

Coffee County magazine

of the week and put in the time needed to get the job done. “I get a bigger thrill out of guiding a client and letting him get the kill than getting the kill myself.”

As the season started to end, Fred found more reasons from them all to stay. It was becoming obvious that this was their new home. “Fred and his wife, Michele, took us in like family,” Megan says. “They are completely down to earth and such great people.” Ryan now had access to over 1 million acres of public land and 2 hundred thousand private. Not bad for a young hunter from Coffee County. “There are hunters and then there are killers. Fred and I, well, we are killers,” Ryan explains about their bond and passion for all things outdoors. August starts antelope season and September brings in bear, elk, and mule deer and whitetail. On into December they hunt mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and badgers.

As a small boy, Ryan remembers he and his brothers filming themselves hunting back at the Gopher and now he was being handed a camera to film for both Easton Bowhunting and Predator Nation. His whole life had prepared him for the struggles of a cameraman to stay calm and not flinch at a shot. “Fred once told me that he would rather have a hunter film than a videographer for all those reasons.” The two are definitely in sync and know what the other is thinking. It makes for an intense television show that puts the viewer within inches of the real hunt.

“It never feels like work,” says Ryan about putting almost 100 hours a week in during the season. Now that Megan helps cook for the guided hunters, they do get to see each other during the day, even if it’s just for lunch. In June and July, Ryan and Megan focus solely on their little family. They fish and take

“It never feels like work.�

[Says Ryan about putting almost 100 hours a week in during the season.]

Photo by ron spomer

Hometown Living At Its Best

69

beach trips to spend as much as time as possible with Syndal. They also come back home to Douglas and the Gopher every chance they get.

When asked about if this was his dream job, Megan responded with a story about a dinner conversation one night in their one bedroom, one bath house at the bottom of a mountain in the middle of nowhere. The Powerball jackpot total was up to some crazy hundreds of millions of dollars. We have all had that conversation at some point in our lives, and fantasized about how we would spend all that money. Ryan asked Megan what she would do if they won. Megan responded with travel plans all around the world and no time for work. Megan then asked Ryan what he would do if they won. “I would immediately call Fred and tell him that I quit and would NOT be coming to work in the morning. Then I would wait about 30 minutes and call him right back and tell him I was just kidding!”

Now that’s a dream job…  CCM

70

Coffee County magazine

A place to laugh, love, grow, and belong.

912-384-0351 | 3255 US Highway 441 South | Douglas, GA 31535 | oneconnection.org

“What happens at the spa, stays at the spa.”

• botox/dysport • restylane • microneedling • laser/IPL • spider veins • chemical peels • microdermabrasion • body contouring • pharmaceutical skin care • mineral make up • facials

Gina Williams, RN - Aesthetic Nurse - Senior Laser Practitioner 912.383.0005 office | 229.392.5243 cell | gina@skintasticskin.com

Ansley Moore - Aesthetician/Laser Technician

912-383-0005 office| 912-381-4671 cell |ansley@skintasticskin.com

114 N. Peterson Ave. Douglas GA Suite 206, The Atrium

Hometown Living At Its Best

71

Lasseter Implement Company 912.384.4400 970 SW Bowens Mill Road, Douglas, GA 31534

72

coffee county magazine

AMERICA’S APPLIANCE EXPERTS HOMETOWN STORE

516 S PETERSON AVE, DOUGLAS, GA 31533 | (912) 383-7400

Hometown Living At Its Best

73

Protect your family and pets from the nuisance and dangers of mosquitoes.

Three Proven Solutions . 21 Day Barrier Spray . Automatic Misting System . Special Event Spray

Call 912.383.BITE (2483)

74

coffee county magazine

scgeorgia.MosquitoSquad.com

Fitzgerald

Family Eyecare

Dr. Ellen D. Fitzgerald | Dr. Krista J. Stapleton Optometric Physicians

302 Westside Drive | Douglas, GA | 912.393.0005 visionsource-drellenfitzgerald.com

1351 C Bowens Mill Rd. | Douglas, GA

912.383.0258 | Owners: Mitch and Jackie Douglas Hometown Living At Its Best

75

Kicking

Goals

Towards The Future

Story By Jordan Calhoun | Photos By Mike Saylor and Kelly McDonald Photography 76

coffee county magazine

Noah Saylor’s natural talent for sports has opened up a world of possibilities for his future,

M

Many people find their passions in a university classroom or through aptitude tests. Noah Saylor of Douglas found his on a field.

Noah, 14, began playing soccer with the Douglas Recreation Department when he was eight years old. What usually results in nothing more than a cheap plastic trophy and some memories for most kids, soon became much more for Noah.

“He sort of had a natural knack for it,” explained his mother, Kristina. “We never expected or cared that he be very good, we

just wanted him to try it.”

Noah took to the game faster than his parents and coaches expected and he soon rose to the top of his team. It was not long before Noah had racked up a whopping 38 goals in his first season playing.

“I wanted him to try soccer because if he decided to go into mission work, or go anywhere in the world, this game is played.

Kids around the world will play soccer with a tin can,” Noah’s father Michael confessed about their initial interest in signing Noah up for soccer. “I thought if he

Hometown Living At Its Best

77

A NATURAL TALENT “I was about 10 and playing rec baseball, and my uncle said to me, ‘You need to go try and kick a football!’ I went out to the football field that was next to the baseball fields and the first time I kicked it, it went through! It was funny because I had a baseball uniform on, soccer cleats on, and I was kicking a football.”

at least understood this game, it’d be good for him. We didn’t know that he would excel at it.”

But excel he did. His talent was so evident and his eagerness to play so palpable that Michael took him to a soccer camp at Coffee County High School. It was there that Noah’s above-average skill was recognized.

“After two days of that camp, Mike Lord came to us and told us to take Noah to tryout for this team in Tifton called South Georgia United. He made the phone calls and we went over for just a practice and they immediately wanted Noah to play,” Michael explained.

At the age of nine, when most kids are navigating 3rd grade spelling tests and learning to play checkers, Noah had taken his newfound passion and landed a spot on his

78

coffee county magazine

first club team just a year after his first encounter with a soccer ball.

“Noah would spend no less than two to three hours a day, five to six days a week in the backyard by himself with that soccer ball,” Michael said.

Michael confessed that he knew nothing about soccer and had never played growing up, but wanted to help Noah foster his love for the game. So he reached out to the soccer coach at South Georgia State College to see if there was a player on the men’s team who may be willing to work with Noah a few times a week and help him improve his game. Johnny Clifford fit the bill.

“Noah came to me when he had just started playing the game. I noticed straightaway that he was left-footed

which is very, very rare. Only 1 in 35 professional soccer players are left-footed, so I knew he had a much higher chance of making it,” Johnny said about his first impression of Noah.

Johnny came to the United States following time spent playing professional soccer with the Scottish league, Livingston F.C. Upon becoming Noah’s mentor, Johnny remembers being impressed with his protégée’s character on and off the field.

“During my time in Douglas, I coached a lot of kids, but Noah was the only one who really stuck with it. I’d give him homework and when he’d come back to our next practice, I could tell he’d done it,” Johnny explained. “He was such a positive boy. It

was a pleasure to coach him because he always had a smile on his face and he was so respectful. I had to tell him 20 times not to call me sir!”

Noah’s ability soon became more widely recognized by his community when he took on a new challenge.

“I was about 10 and playing rec baseball, and my uncle said to me, ‘You need to go try and kick a football!’ I went out to the football field that was next to the baseball fields and the first time I kicked it, it went through! It was funny because I had a baseball uniform on, soccer cleats on, and I was kicking a football,” Noah laughed.

His ability landed him a place as the kicker for the

Hometown Living At Its Best

79

Indian Creek Elementary football team in fifth grade. He had a perfect season and was unanimously voted on to the Douglas Recreation Department’s AllStar Football Team as their kicker, a position he wouldn’t revisit until he was in 8th grade.

“It was the first time that people really appreciated what he did. Soccer here is more of a quiet success. But when he played football, everyone noticed. We were getting calls from the high school coaches asking if he was planning to play high school football!”

Michael explained.

During this time, South Georgia United was absorbed into the United Futbol Academy, a club headquartered in Atlanta. The club boasts a whopping 7,000 members and opened up a new wealth of soccer connections for the Saylor family to take advantage of.

“When I first saw him, it was quite evident that although he was young at the time, you could really tell that he

80

coffee county magazine

LEADERSHIP had coordination. He had a feel for the ball and could strike it correctly,” Noah’s UFA head coach, Jacob Crawford, said of his talent.

“He’s grown into a really strong leader and has displayed that leadership as one of our team captains. He’s willing to play anywhere on the field and do anything to help the team.”

The most enticing of these new UFA connections was the District Training Center Program- a branch of Georgia Soccer that seeks to identify talented players in rural areas of the state and provide them with advanced training. The program gives rural players in the state a chance to showcase their skills and to possibly be chosen to be a part of the Olympic Development Program, which identifies national team members at the youth level and provides development opportunities for these elite potential national team players.

For a small fee, Noah tried out for the District

“He’s grown into a really strong leader and has displayed that leadership as one of our team captains. He’s willing to play anywhere on the field and do anything to help the team.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

81

Training Squad and was soon practicing once a week in Tifton under ODP coaches.

After a season with the District Training Squad team, Noah’s coaches recognized his potential and selected him to tryout for a special All Star team that further prepares players for ODP. His first year he was not selected.

However, on his second attempt, Noah earned a spot on the DTC All Star Team.

Noah’s place on the All Star team afforded him an automatic tryout with the state ODP team. That opportunity, however, was almost lost.

“He actually missed the first Atlanta tryout because we didn’t get the email giving us the information,” Michael explained. “Thankfully they allowed him to tryout for the coach during an official practice. So Noah actually had to tryout with a team that had already been chosen.”

82

coffee county magazine

Despite Noah’s nervousness, he soon took to the pitch and left his anxiety on the sidelines. His raw talent and his incredible discipline in preparing for the tryout landed him the only position given to a player in the state’s 2003 age pool residing south of Macon on the ODP team. The Saylor family now attends ODP practices each month in a new 60 million dollar facility in Marietta, GA owned by Author Blank. On the pitch, Noah is playing predominately left back, a defensive position, and left wing, a midfield position.

“We cried when we got the email that he had made the team,” Kristina remembered. “It was all of his hard work paying off.”

Looking into the future, Noah says he would love to be a professional soccer or football player. Noah would love to kick for the University of Florida or play for the men’s

“We cried when we got the email that he had made the team, It was all of his hard work paying off.”

[Kristina Saylor]

soccer team at Clemson University.

“When he’s 16 or 17, I’ll be recruiting him,” laughed Johnny, who is now a soccer coach at St. Mary’s University.

Off the field, Noah is a brilliant student, a strong Christian, and a connoisseur of his mom’s homemade spaghetti. As he continues to develop as a soccer player and a man, he says he hopes to someday start a soccer camp for younger players. Noah credits prayer and the support of his parents as the source of his success.

“He’s compassionate. He really cares for other people,” Kristina said of what she admires most about her son.

Noah’s compassion extended to his own Coffee County community on Christmas Eve when he went with his father, younger brother Jonah, and a UFA teammate to distribute soccer balls to kids in an impoverished

neighborhood.

“A girl we met had on soccer pajamas and she was so excited when she saw the ball. When we shut the door, we could hear her screaming with joy inside. It was so fun,” Noah said of his experience.

NSXV is not quite a motto, and not quite an identity, but certainly a title for the hard work and dedication that Noah has put into the game he loves. An acronym for Noah Saylor, jersey #15, the letters are plastered across his bedroom wall and have come to define his journey as an athlete and a man.

Despite his great athletic, academic, and personal successes, Noah‘s foundation is the Word of God and is epitomized in his favorite bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13  CCM

Hometown Living At Its Best

83

JIMMY BRIGMOND, OWNER FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1984!

READY TRUCK LINES 912-384-1590 | 762 JACKIES LANE, DOUGLAS, GA

84

coffee county magazine

Crawford

Jewelers

Repairs | Gold | Diamonds | Watches 1351 Bowens Mill Rd SE Ste D, Douglas, GA 31533 (912) 384-0073

Hometown Living At Its Best

85

86

Coffee County magazine

Story by Jordan Calhoun Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

As our world continues to shift and change around us, Dr. Thompson-Sellers is a brilliant and capable professional who is committed to bringing further success and prestige to SGSC. As America enters a new era of leadership through a new presidency, so does the South Georgia State College in Douglas.

Dr. Ingrid Thompson-Sellers began her journey as the interim president of SGSC on June 30, 2016 after being named as the successor to retiring president Virginia Carson by University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby. Dr. Thompson-Sellers’s appointment follows a long and successful career in education and indicates a bright future for SGSC under her leadership.

Dr. Thompson-Sellers’s passion for education

was ignited during her senior year of high school when she took her first job working as a mathematics tutor.

“I was very shocked that someone wanted to pay me to tutor their child because I loved instructing anyway and would have done it for free!” she said of the position.

Despite feeling a strong connection to teaching, Dr. Thompson-Sellers took time to pursue another calling and chose to enter a different field of study. The youngest of five girls, she recalls that some of her fondest memories were

Hometown Living At Its Best

87

spent watching her father, who was a telecommunication technician, tinkering with pieces of his equipment such as an 8-track tape system.

“I was fascinated with his toys and wanted to do something like that one day. Hence my studies in physics and computer science as I did see myself as an engineer,” she remembered.

It was during Dr. Thompson-Sellers’s time in the corporate world that she rediscovered her deep love for training and developing people. Her passion led to action as she began teaching part-time as an adjunct, and then transitioned into teaching mathematics and computer science at the high school level.

PHOTO ABOVE BY SOUTH GEORGIA STATE COLLEGE

88

Coffee County magazine

It was not long before Dr. ThompsonSellers had her hard work awarded with her dream job: employment as a full-time college faculty member. Her assignment at Iona College in New York was cut short when in August of 1998, the native New Yorker landed a position at Georgia Perimeter College and made the move down south with her family. During her time at GPC, Dr. Thompson-Sellers was allowed to wear many hats, such as dean of business and campus dean at Clarkston, Decatur, Newton, and GPC Online.

Following her service at GPC, Dr. Thompson-Sellers was offered a role at Georgia State University where she most

currently served as a professor of business information systems and a senior associate dean. It was while she was at Georgia State that she accepted the position of interim president at SGSC. “I always had a passion for helping people to develop themselves and believed that education would be the key for anyone who desired to achieve in life,” Dr. ThompsonSellers said of her passion-turned-career. “For me, I think that I’ve made the most difference teaching in higher education because you really get a chance to be a part of someone’s development and the transformation literally unfolds right before you.”

Although Dr. Thompson-Sellers has traded

Hometown Living At Its Best

89

90

Coffee County magazine

When she isn’t at SGSC, Dr. Thompson-Sellers can be found watching Shark Tank with her husband Calvin, her daughter Danielle, her son Torrence, and her schnauzer Dustee. Her favorite food is chocolate cake and her favorite place to visit is Disneyland.

her classroom for an office, she says she doesn’t believe she has sacrificed any part of what originally drew her to higher education.

“I don’t think that I’ve ever left the classroom since I treat every moment with a student as a teaching and learning opportunity,” she explained.

“Whenever I meet with students formally or informally, I always seek to learn about them, who they are, what concerns them, and I look in my tool kit as an educator to see how best I can help.”

While a new community and the pressure of a collegiate presidency might be daunting for some people, Dr. Thompson-Sellers is thankful for the privilege of working with her wonderful team

Hometown Living At Its Best

91

Dr. Ingrid Thompson-Sellers began her journey as the interim president of SGSC on June 30, 2016 after being named as the successor to retiring president Virginia Carson by University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby. Dr. Thompson-Sellers’s appointment follows a long and successful career in education and indicates a bright future for SGSC under her leadership.

at SGSC and is excited by the professional challenge. She also has high hopes for the college’s student body, which she says is brimming with potential.

“Our students are living in some very exciting times where disruption gives them a chance to really do great things. So many monumental discoveries and events happened because of different disruptions that influenced thinking outside of the box,” she said of the educational climate at SGSC. “I’ve witnessed how talented, smart, and eager SGSC students are to make a difference in their community and I will continue to support and champion their work to the best of my ability.”

Although Dr. Thompson-Sellers has received a bachelor’s degree in physics, a master’s degree in telecommunications, and a doctorate in instructional technology from Georgia State

92

Coffee County magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

93

University, she still considers herself to be a lifelong learner. Her goal is to remain relevant and prepared for new opportunities and endeavors as she stays true to her personal calling of changing lives through education.

As our world continues to shift and change around us, Dr. Thompson-Sellers is a brilliant and capable professional who is committed to bringing further success and prestige to SGSC. “As interim president of South Georgia State College I am afforded an opportunity to collaborate with faculty, staff, students and our community

94

Coffee County magazine

partners to strategically plan for and shape the next course of history for the college.”

When she isn’t at SGSC, Dr. Thompson-Sellers can be found watching Shark Tank with her husband Calvin, her daughter Danielle, her son Torrence, and her schnauzer Dustee. Her favorite food is chocolate cake and her favorite place to visit is Disneyland.

If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Thompson-Sellers’s passion for education, or if you’d just like to bring her a piece of chocolate cake, stop by her office in Thrash Hall and welcome her to Coffee County.  CCM

Hometown Living At Its Best

95

$250 OFF* Braces or

FREE Consultation with X-rays

Coffee Cty Magazine

*Just bring this ad or show us a photo of it!

*New patients only. May not be combined with any other offer or discount.

Albany • Baxley • Douglas • Dublin • Hinesville Moultrie • Sandersville • St. Simons Tifton • Thomasville • Vidalia

Dana Fender, DMD

Most insurance accepted Interest-free monthly payments Se habla Español

1-888-FENDER-4 SmilesHappenHere.com 96

coffee county Magazine

Kribs & Kradles Come make a Baby Shower Registry with us!

300 Peterson Ave. South Douglas, GA 31533 (912) 260-1268 Sheila@kribsandkradles.com www.kribsandkradles.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

97

Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald

Not your average lunch date….

If you want to find Bennie Overstreet on a Wednesday, odds are he will be off Eagle Lake Lane overseeing the menu for the “Eagle Lake Bone Pickers” weekly lunch.

And as the name implies,”fish is most always getting happy in the fryers. Pork and beans, now that’s a standard too,” Says Bennie. A spread of fried fish, hushpuppies, French fries, slaw, and beans look amazing, but the best is saved for last. Sandy, Bennie’s better half, gets up early every Wednesday to prepare homemade desserts. Today, it’s peach cobbler.

The Bone Pickers are a group of men who meet each Wednesday for food and fellowship. It was started about 30 years-ago by Alton Overstreet who was Bennie’s father. “He created a place for his friends to all come together once a week, eat fried fish, and try to solve the world’s problems,” said Bennie. After Alton passed away the group quit meeting for a while until Bennie decided

98

Coffee County magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

99

100

Coffee County magazine

“The first competitions start after each school year begins. Because of Bennie and the Bone Pickers we are now able to host a competition at our own school each year, usually in October.

Bennie and his friends were also instrumental in getting a group of the club to Anaheim, California when their team qualified for the worlds competition six years ago. You have to pay to play, and thanks to Bennie, The Bone Pickers, and others like him, now we can!,� said Rodney.

Hometown Living At Its Best

101

102

Coffee County magazine

Connection to the Robotics Club Bennie is not just the selfproclaimed democratic dictator of the Bone Pickers, he is also an Auburn University graduate with a degree in civil engineering.

His first job after college was at the George C. Marshall Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

That is where he was part of the project that was responsible for the rocket booster that put the first man on the moon.

to start it up again about 16 years-ago. “When I started it back full time, I knew it needed to be more this time around,� said Bennie.

Bennie brought back the original staples, fish and pork and beans, but added a friendly little wager. He knew that with this group of gentlemen, they could be a great help to their community.

These days when the Bone Pickers meet, they each place a small bet on whatever game Bennie has chosen for that week; baseball, basketball, a Florida-Georgia football game, Alabama-Auburn football game, whatever seems the most interesting. Everyone

Hometown Living At Its Best

103

“You don’t have to be a genius to do this, but the more time and money you invest into your robot, the better robot you have.”

[Member of the 2017 Coffee High School VEX Robotics Club]

104

Coffee County magazine

who shows up for lunch takes a guess at the final total score and the person who is closest wins the money, except they don’t keep it. Not a good bet for most people, but for Coffee County it is a great one.

Once a month or so, all the proceeds are donated into their community.

“We help mostly with programs that usually don’t get a lot of funding like the IT Department or the Robotics Club at the high school, 4-H, FFA, or anyone we know that is in need. The Robotics Club at Coffee County High School means a lot to me,” Bennie explains.

Bennie is not just the self-proclaimed democratic dictator of the Bone Pickers, he is also an Auburn University graduate with a degree in civil engineering. His first job after college was at the George C. Marshall Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. That is where he was part of the project that was responsible for the rocket booster that

put the first man on the moon. After the space race slowed down, Bennie returned home to Douglas and started his own business, Fab Tec. He has also built Gopher Plantation, a wildlife sanctuary for hunters.

When Bennie decided to re-start the Bone Pickers, he saw a need for funding for programs and people around his town and decided to help in a fun way. “Seven kids from the Robotics Department at the high school went to Nationals in San Diego last year. That’s such a great accomplishment for these students. They needed help with funding for flights, hotels, meals, a little of everything. The Bone Pickers voted to start raising money and were glad to offer their help,” beamed Bennie.

“You don’t have to be a genius to do this, but the more time and money you invest into your robot, the better robot you have,” says one member of the 2017 Coffee High School VEX Robotics Club. In his seventeenth year of teaching, Rodney Ragsdale leads the Robotics Club, Team 1253. The team has already qualified two robots for the state competition this year and are striving to get a third qualified. “Every year is a new game,” Ragsdale explains about Team 1253. “The first competitions start after each school year begins. Because of Bennie and the Bone Pickers we are now able to host a competition at our own school each year, usually in October. Bennie and his friends were also instrumental in getting a group of the club to Anaheim, California when their team qualified for the worlds competition six years ago. You have to pay to play, and thanks to Bennie, The Bone Pickers, and others like him, now we can!,” said Rodney.

Some of the Bone Pickers’ meetings have a guest speaker to inform on an issue or tell a good fish story. Recently Bennie’s

Hometown Living At Its Best

105

“Seven kids from the Robotics Department at the high school went to Nationals in San Diego last year. That’s such a great accomplishment for these students. They needed help with funding for flights, hotels, meals, a little of everything. The Bone Pickers voted to start raising money and were glad to offer their help,” beamed Bennie.

106

Coffee County magazine

grandson, Ryan Solomon, spoke about his job in Colorado.

Ryan, his wife, and 2-year-old daughter live literally in the middle of nowhere at the base of two mountains 45 minutes away from the nearest town. He is a hunting guide and videographer for Full Draw Outfitters. The members of the Bone Pickers who are local hunters had a million questions for the young guide. Before he gave the podium back to his grandfather, Ryan left the room and returned with a gift for Bennie. It was a huge yellow tail snapper that was recently caught by Bennie on a trip to Louisiana.

It was the third largest ever caught in the state, and Ryan had it mounted for his grandpa.

The Bone Pickers are a thoughtful group of men.

Besides all of the proceeds from their bets going to a good cause, there is one lucky winner each year who earns a trophy for being the ”winningest” better. Bennie Overstreet won that trophy for 2016. It is monogrammed the Eagle Lake Bone Pickers World Champion. Laughter and fellowship are always on the menu with this bunch and you can bet if there is a need, the Bone Pickers will be there to lend some help.  CCM

serving south georgia For over 50 Years

Prince 109 Westgreen Rd, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-2600 | princeforddouglas.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

107

Douglas Golf & Country Club Golf, Dining & Special Event s 1425 Golf Club Road Douglas, GA 31533 | 912.384.4707 www.douglasgolf.net

108

coffee county magazine

Taking Care Of Your

Best Friend

Family Owned Business

SG

SMELL -N- GOOD CLEANING SERVICES Quality Service For Quality Customers

Lakeshia Williams, Owner 122 Bowens Mill Road SE | Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 327-9874

MIKE’S

Carter Veterinary Clinic

147 Bowens Mill Rd SE, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 383-0418

CHECK CASHING

Check Cashing Service 801 N Peterson Ave. | Douglas, GA 31533

(912) 393-3577

216 N Madison Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 (912) 393-1223 Hometown Living At Its Best

109

pancake palooza

While making a typical meal at home for her family, Roni Hanna Russ had a humbling realization. That realization led to a project that has now blessed around 300 local families.

110

Coffee County magazine

Story by Jenna Musgrove Photos by Pamela Brigmond, Roni Hanna Russ & Kelly McDonald

“It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” Mother Teresa’s words ring true and, for me, bring a very special project to mind. Pancake Palooza, pioneered three years ago by Veronica “Roni” Russ, has shown what it means to love to give and to give out of love.

Roni is a Douglas native and owner of Oasis medAesthetics. She is married to Charlie Russ, who she describes as a “good ole country boy who fills my heart with laughter in this serious world.” Charlie teaches at the George Washington Carver Freshman Campus. Charlie and Roni have five beautiful boys: Harrison, Brady, Luke, Joseph and Elijah.

After graduating high school, Roni attended Georgia Southern University, where she earned a degree in Nutrition and Food Science. She went on to attend PA School at Emory University. It is there where she realized what a great

Hometown Living At Its Best

111

112

Coffee County magazine

need there was for health, wellness, and medicine in her small hometown, Douglas.

After working in internal medicine for seven years, she opened Oasis. The dream and concept for the establishment were truly born as she considered this: if more people knew how and what to eat, there would be less major medical issues to treat. In describing this, Roni states, “My two passions were now combined and Oasis was born!”

That passion did not end there. Roni and her family have a love for this community. “As a Douglas native, fourth generation business owner, and third generation Lebanese-American, we love our community! I cannot

That passion did not end there. Roni and her family have a love for this community. “As a Douglas native, fourth generation business owner, and third generation Lebanese-American, we love our community! I cannot imagine living or working anywhere else,” she explains. That is why it is no surprise that Roni is so passionate about her business and about giving back.

Hometown Living At Its Best

113

imagine living or working anywhere else,” she explains. That is why it is no surprise that Roni is so passionate about her business and about giving back.

As she was cooking breakfast for the “Russ Bunch” one morning, she had a humbling thought: some families—many families—in this community do not have even the simple luxury of enjoying a warm, filling breakfast. The thought then led to action. Instead of simply accepting that many families do not get to enjoy things like pancakes or other hot meals, Roni began gathering support from members of the community to do something about it. What started as a simple Facebook post turned into a project that has now served around 300 local families.

Instead of simply accepting that many families do not get to enjoy things like pancakes or other hot meals, Roni began gathering support from members of the community to do something about it.

What started as a simple Facebook post turned into a project that has now served around 300 local families.

114

Coffee County magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

115

Pancake Palooza is planned to continue each year, and Roni even hopes to add milk and eggs to the bags that are given.

Coffee County is notorious for supporting good causes, especially those that benefit local families in need. This project provides an easy way for members of the community to give back.

Pancake Palooza is an annual project in which donations are given: pancake mix, muffin mix, grits, oatmeal, other “just add water” items, syrup, and even peanut butter. Roni and the incredible Oasis staff and members of the Leo Club at CCA gather the items, bag them, and deliver them to those in need in Coffee and Atkinson counties. She has also matched donations and added a pound of bacon to each bag.

The Pancake Palooza crew contacts local schools and organizations for elderly assistance to find individuals and families who could truly benefit from the project. A memory that stands out in Roni’s mind is delivering a bag to a family with parents, a young boy, and his several younger siblings. The young boy was so excited about their pancakes and she was most touched that he was excited that his whole family was able to eat all they wanted!

Pancake Palooza is planned to continue each year, and Roni even hopes to add milk and eggs to the bags that are given. Coffee County is notorious for supporting good causes, especially those that benefit local families in need.

This project provides an easy way for members of the community to give back.

While it is a simple concept, it has been developed and grown with love, and has blessed so many. So often, the simple things can make the world of a difference, and Pancake Palooza is evidence of that.  CCM

116

Coffee County magazine

Kevin McGovern, LUTCF, Agency Owner

Tanner Insurance Company 319 C South Madison Ave. Douglas, GA 912.384.0114 407 N. Main Street Pearson, GA 912.422.3272

912-331-1300 | 316 S PETERSON AVE 912-331-1300 | 316 S PETERSON AVE

tannerinsuranceagency.com

410 East Ward Street | Douglas, GA 31533 | 912.384.2608

1002 N Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-7464

Miller Chiropractic Clinic

I

Treatment for headaches, back & neck pain, & sciatica

Henry R. Sheeield, D.C.

1206 S Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-0414 Hometown Living At Its Best

117

514 Peterson Ave. S.E. | Douglas, Ga 31533 912-339-8888 | Hours 9:30AM - 6:30PM

THE

gallery OF PHOTOGRAPHY

317 PETERSON AVE S | DOUGLAS, GA 31533-5200 (912) 384-2191 | GALLERY@AEH.CC

118

coffee county magazine

HUGE INVENTORY

OF CUSTOM GOLF CART PARTS AND GOLF CART ACCESSORIES

912.384.7113 mikesgolfcartsga.com 529A Bowens Mill Rd SW | Douglas, Georgia 31533

You’re our #1 priority.

We promise you’ll be satisfied, or we’ll make it right. That is our commitment to you.

Sims

Funeral Home

S

Fu

107 Years of Service 201 N Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-1234 1815 S Peterson Ave | Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 720-2000

20

Memorial Garden

Sims

(912) 384-1234 201 N Peterson Ave Douglas, GA

Funeral Home

S

C F

107 Years of Service

Hometown Living At Its Best

119

Arts THE

OF COFFEE COUNTY

Coffee Alliance for the Arts Is Focused on Bringing the Best to the Community

120

coffee county magazine

Story By JoAnn Danna | Photos by Pam Brigmond, Tiffany Walton, April Dockery and Anna Braswell

T

The Coffee Alliance is a non-profit organization established in 1988 and dedicated to fostering and promoting the arts for the citizens of Coffee County. In the last few years, the Alliance has primarily focused on young artists: sponsoring an annual Arts Week at Coffee High; a Valdosta Children’s Theater first grade performance; Munch and Music every April for the last twenty years; a scholarship for a Coffee County high school senior planning on majoring in the arts in college; and, also for the last twenty years, a week-long Missoula Children’s Theater camp.

CAA also sponsors a classic movie night monthly at the Rockin’ Eight Cinema.

The Alliance membership is open to anyone in the community who wants to support these

Hometown Living At Its Best

121

A Talented Community This year, the directors wanted both Munch and Music and Missoula Children’s Theater to be an opportunity for young stars to learn and share their talents with the whole community.

efforts, but the primary work of CAA is done by the board of directors. This year, the directors wanted both Munch and Music and Missoula Children’s Theater to be an opportunity for young stars to learn and share their talents with the whole community.

April was the 20th time that CAA sponsored Munch and Music at Emma Ward Park in Douglas. Each of the four Wednesdays in April this year, as in years past, the park was the setting for a performance by talented local musicians.

Blessed by great spring weather, the Coffee Alliance welcomed many community members who enjoyed the sunshine and breezes and some terrific musical talent. The month opened with a performance by the Coffee High Jazz Band under the direction of Mr. Steve Myers. The next Wednesday showcased vocalist Evie Woodward. The

122

coffee county magazine

Children Take The Stage

“Children in Coffee County need the opportunity for their talents to be showcased, at both Munch and Music and through Missoula Children’s Theater. I am honored to be a part of the Coffee Alliance for the Arts, surrounded by those dedicated to fostering the arts for our whole community.”

third Wednesday was headlined by Ed Ayers, who played, sang and accompanied Allison Bailey Adcock, as she sang. Ed and Allison are also members of the Three Rivers Orchestra. The last Wednesday featured the Coffee High Show Choir.

Having the Coffee High Show Choir and the Coffee High Jazz Band perform has become a traditional part of Munch and Music. Show Choir Director Mrs. Tania Myers was grateful that her students have been a part of the Munch and Music tradition, since the very first year.

A star of this year’s Munch and Music was Evie Woodward, daughter of Greg and Allison Woodward. Evie, only fifteen, has performed many times before, but Munch and Music is a

uniquely challenging performance venue. She was not bothered by the competition from traffic and sirens.

One special guest at Munch and Music this year was Declan Kieley, visiting Jim and Bev Gibbs.

Mr. Kiely, of London, was impressed with the talent he saw displayed here in Douglas during three Munch and Music performances.

The week of June 13 marked Coffee Alliance’s 20th sponsorship of the Missoula Children’s Theater. More than 200 parents, grandparents, family members, and other community theater lovers got to see 39 students from 1st-9th grade perform this year’s play, Peter and Wendy, on Saturday, June 18. South Georgia State College

Hometown Living At Its Best

123

Former Coffee Alliance President Elaine Lord remarked that this year’s play was the best she had seen in many summers of watching and helping to organize Missoula productions.

has graciously hosted Missoula Children’s Theater and its predecessor, the Alliance’s summer children’s theater camp, since 1991.

Directors Emma Harr and Blair Smith, from Atlanta and Seattle respectively, arrived in Douglas on Sunday and immediately began preparations for the week’s work. On Monday, students auditioned for parts, were given scripts, and began rehearsals. They continued rehearsing throughout the week, learning their lines and songs. Additionally, Emma and Blair provided workshops on theater makeup, acting, and improvisation for students who were interested in staying for additional instruction. On Wednesday, the students began rehearsing with their accompanist Jaime Malagon, a wonderful pianist, who has recently moved to Douglas from Houston, Texas, where he is a pianist with the Houston Ballet.

Former Coffee Alliance President Elaine Lord remarked that this year’s play was the best she had seen in many summers of watching and helping to organize Missoula productions.

Coffee Alliance Board member Anna Braswell returned from her pursuit of a Master’s Degree in theater

124

coffee county magazine

and television writing at Savannah College of Art and Design to be the official photographer and videographer for the week. Mary Ester Braswell, Anna’s sister, at home for the summer from her studies at Duke, generously ran the lights for the production. Both participated in Missoula while they were growing up.

The Alliance’s Board Members hope to continue to support these activities through community donations and grants. Incoming President JoAnn Danna, speaking for the board, is looking forward to the next twenty years of providing important arts activities for the community, but especially for the community’s students. “Children in Coffee County need the opportunity for their talents to be showcased, at both Munch and Music and through Missoula Children’s Theater. I am honored to be a part of the Coffee Alliance for the Arts, surrounded by those dedicated to fostering the arts for our whole community,” said JoAnn. Donations to support the activities of the Coffee Alliance for the Arts can be mailed to PO Box 2823, Douglas, 31534, or by contacting CAA officers JoAnn Danna, Lisa Tierney, Julie Lord, or Veronda Gillis through the CAA Facebook page.  CCM

912.534.5972

64 Arthur Davis Jr. Drive, Willacoochee, GA Hometown Living At Its Best

125

The Coffee County area is growing and steadily becoming a central

marketplace. You can find great retail shopping, restaurants and services

around each corner. If you haven’t

done so lately, take the time to look

around and discover all the wonderful things there are to find.

200 East Ward St. | Douglas, GA | 912.383.7462 Eve Brawner, Owner

Travel

with Confidence!

Bee Gee Travel consultants

Bee Gee Travel

consultants

Denise Craft, Owner Beverly Gibbs, Consultant Vicki Pridemore, Group Coordinator

Denise Craft, Owner Beverly Gibbs, Consultant Vicki Pridemore, Group Coordinator

CARTER THOMPSON INSURANCE 201 E Ashley St, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-7171

126

coffee county Living

912.384.2223 800.581.2223

912.384.2223 | 800.581.2223 116 S. Madison Avenue, Douglas, GA 31533 116 S. Madison Avenue, Douglas, GA 31533 beegeetravel@windstream.net beegeetravel@windstream.net Personal & Professional Travel Planning Services Since 1984

Personal & Professional Travel Planning Services Since 1984

Where the best customers, get the best service Hours: Monday - Friday | 8AM - 6PM 800 N Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533

618 Peterson Ave N (912) 384-5500 Douglas, GA

602 N. Peterson Ave | Douglas, GA 31533 912.292.1349 | www.strawberrylizard.com

3415 Hwy 32 West • Douglas, GA • 912-384-5022

234 S PETERSON AVE, DOUGLAS, GA 31533

(912) 383-8875

Plants Plus, LLC Available for all your landscaping and lawn care needs...

lott’s

DIESEL SERVICE, INC

802 Iron Road | Douglas, GA 912-384-0870

Prom, Pageant & Homecoming 222 S. Peterson Avenue • Douglas 912.384.1713 • dressesanddreamsllc.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

127

Index of Advertisers

A-1 Cleaning & Restoration …….......................…. 51 Al’s Paint & Body ………...................................... 125 Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC …….......................…. 1 Bee Gee Travel Consultants ….....................……. 126 Bold by Shanda …….........................................…. 73 Burger King …..................................................……. 2 Carter Thompson Insurance ……....................…. 126 Carter Veterinary Clinic ……............................…. 109 Century 21 - Sea Mar Realty …......................……. 72 City of Nicholls .............................................………. 6 Coffee Board of Education ........... Inside Front Cover Coffee Regional Hospital Family Medicine ………. 84 Coffee Regional Hospital Urology Center ……….... 97 Coffee Regional Hospital Women’s Center ………. 18 Coffee Regional Medical Center ………................. 49 Collins Cardiology ……..................…. 38, Back Cover Cook Portable Warehouses …….....................…. 125 Covenant Church ….......................................……. 71 Crawford Jewelers …......................................……. 85 Danny’s Pizza …...............……. 51, Inside Back Cover Douglas Golf & Country Club …...................……. 108 Douglas Internal Medicine ….........................……. 59 Douglas Vascular Center ……............................…. 50 Dresses and Dreams …...............................…….. 127 Eve Fine Ladies Apparel …...........................……. 126 Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott ……..................…. 119 Farmers Home Furniture …............................……. 85 Farrar Hennesy & Tanner, LLC ………................... 125 First Care Clinic ..........................................………. 29 Fitzgerald Family Eyecare ……...........................…. 75 Fulco Discount Drug Center ..........................………. 9 Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center ….... 119 Hampton by Hilton …….....................................…. 50 Hungry Howie’s Pizza ...............................………. 127 Johnny’s New York Style Pizza ……..................…. 109 KFC | Krystal …...........................................……. 117 Kribs & Kradles …..........................................……. 97 Lasseter Implement Company ……...................…. 72 Lindsey & Wills Animal Hospital ….................……. 19 Lott’s Diesel Service, Inc …..........................……. 127

Malcolm’s Drug Store ……..............................…. 95 Manor House Senior Living ………....................... 28 McCrary Daniels Insurance Agency …..........……. 74 Mike’s Check Cashing ……...........................…. 109 Mike’s Golf Carts & Powersports ………............ 118 Miller Chiropractic Clinic ……........................…. 117 Mobley’s Pharmacy …...............................……. 126 Mosquito Squad ……......................................…. 74 Murphy Eye Center .................................………. 107 Northside Automotive Co. ......................………. 119 Oasis medAesthetics …...............................……. 39 Plants Plus, LLC .....................................………. 127 Priceless Beauty Supply …........................……. 118 Prince Ford ………............................................. 107 Property Hunters of South Georgia ……..........…. 49 Quality Health Foods ……...............................…. 75 Ready Truck Lines …....................................……. 84 Scott Kirkland Jewelers & Repairs ….........……. 117 Sears Hometown Store …............................……. 73 Sims Funeral Home ……...............................…. 119 Skintastic Skin Spa ……..................................…. 71 Smell-N-Good Cleaning Services ……..........…. 109 Smile Doctors by Fender & Goggans …….......…. 96 Solid Waste Management Authority ……......…. 125 South Georgia North Florida Eye Partners ……... 58 South Georgia State College ……...................…. 57 Stalvey Heating & Cooling ………...................... 118 State Farm Insurance Daniel P. Ross ………........ 57 Story Wealth Management Group ………............... 3 Strawberry Lizard Children’s Clothing & Gifts ... 127 Surcheros Fresh Grill ……..................................…. 7 Tanner Insurance Company - Allstate ….....……. 117 The Gallery of Photography ……....................…. 118 The Therapy Tree ……......................................…. 17 Town Square Antique Mall …….....................…. 127 Ultimate Graphics Plus LLC ….....................……. 58 Unison Behavioral Health ………......................... 95 Vaughn’s Nursery …….....................................…. 59 Walmart Distribution Center ……..................…. 108 Wiregrass Georgia Technical College ….......……. 96

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

128

Coffee county magazine

Our Vision:

An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

218 West Ward Street in Douglas 912.384.2270

Spring 2017

Coffee County also...

The Pursuit of Passion

Ryan and Megan Solomon are working as hunting guides, living their dream and calling it work.

Small Town Big Heart There is something to be said about those like Adam Smith who work hard, achieve success, and remain true to their roots.

Jerome Loving’s whole life had prepared him for doing your best no matter the situation.

Be the Change Cady Ray has a passion for helping others and does not let her age stop her from making things happen.

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