Tattnall County Living - 2019

2019 Issue

$1 BILLION ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT 26,000 EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS 141 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS 3 CAMPUSES

A Promise of Hope

Mandy Hall has traveled quite a journey to become the current Director of Promise of Hope Tattnall.

ONE UNIVERSITY

Fresh and Local No matter what the future may bring for Destiny, she will be the best she can be because she is determined to succeed.

STATESBORO • SAVANNAH • HINESVILLE • ONLINE

Jessica Kennedy has set out to make Glennville a fresh food hub.

Striking the Right Cord

Stephen DeLoach’s career in the music business has taken off performing with big names.

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Tattnall County 62

contents 10

Upstairs Living Quarters Given a New Life After many years, the building on 107-B East Barnard Street, in downtown Glennville, has been given new life.

28

Striking the Right Chord Stephen DeLoach’s career in the music business has taken off performing with the likes of Florida Georgia Line, Brooks and Dunn and Jason Aldean, just to name a few.

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10 About the Cover Featured on the cover is the beautiful Destiny Levant. The photo was taken by Matt Boyd Photography. Turn to page 80 to read more about her story.

28

Fresh and Local Jessica Kennedy has set out to make Glennville a local fresh food hub.

62

Rocking Kindness Tattnall County Rocks shares smiles through simple acts of kindness, one painted rock at a time.

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tattnall county living

46

A Great Place to Live!

city of

Reidsville

City of Reidsville | 130 South Main Street | Reidsville, GA 30453 | PH: (912) 557-4786 | cityofreidsvillega.com/home

112 80

Determined to Succeed No matter what the future may bring for Destiny, she will be the best she can

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be because she is determined to succeed.

98

A Promise of Hope Mandy Hall has traveled quite a journey to become the current Director of Promise of Hope Tattnall.

112

A Hobby Turned into More Jim Rich’s hobby of beekeeping has turned into a business selling honey using the Rich Apiaries and Honey Farm label.

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126

A Proverbs 31 Woman Faye Balkcom’s family believes she is the epitome of the Proverbs 31 woman.

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Lifetime of Education Retired teacher Charlotte King reflects on spending more than 50 years as an educator.

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From the Publisher

Tattnall County

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

e d i to r Renee Corwine C reat i v e | D e s i g n Stacey Nichols Robin T. Poole Mandi Spivey

I

It is hard to believe that is has been a year since the last issue of the Tattnall County Living Magazine! I usually read what was written in the last issue. I saw that I had mentioned that Matt and Heather were awaiting the birth of their 3rd child, a boy that had not been named yet. I know that y’all have been waiting to hear that he was born healthy and what his name is! Ok, maybe you haven’t been on the edge of your seats – but, I’ll tell you anyway. Proud grandparents have the right to gush!

His name is Guy David Martin. He is healthy and happy! As a matter of absolute, undeniable fact, he is the happiest baby I have EVER seen! You don’t believe me??? Check this picture out! This is what we see 24/7. His parents see this infectious smile 18/7.

It is such an honor and joy to share with y’all some of the wonderful and special people that we have encountered in the last year. Please look on page 152 for the sponsors that make this magazine possible. Thank them, when you see and shop with them.

o f f i ce M a n ager Nikki Burkhalter

A s s i s ta n t M a n ager June Dixon

P h otograp h er s Daphne Walker Dawn McDaniel Owens Eric S. Love Gail Dixon Hailey Lynn Photography Julie Braly Lillian Morse Photography Makayla Sweeney Photography Matt Boyd Photography Melanie McCullough Photography Paul Evans Robin T. Poole Rose Colored Lens LLC The Journal Sentinel

C ov er P h oto Destiny Levant, taken by Matt Boyd Photography Sale s Dottie Hicks

Michael P. Lane Randy Montague

Contributing Wri te r s David Pena

Blessings!!

John 10:10

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

tattnall county living

Gail Dixon Lisa Walenceus Marsha Cunningham Bradley Pam Waters

Tattnall County Magazine© is published annually by With You in Mind Publications. withyouinmindpublications.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.

[ STORY BY PAM WATERS AND PHOTOS BY HAILE Y MATEJCIK AND PROVIDED]

Upstairs living quarters given

T

a new life

The address of 107-B East Barnard Street, in downtown Glennville, has been given a new life. Once again, after long months of restoration, the second story dwelling has tenants.

The location is above the current Wards Variety Store, 107 East Barnard, and where many will remember was the home of Strickland’s Pharmacy in the 1960s to 1981.

After its use as a cafe in the 1940s, the location of 107 E. Barnard was home to the Dixon-Mann Pharmacy in 1949, owned by Howell Mann and Winton Dixon. When Winton drowned in 1956, it became known as Mann’s Pharmacy. Gerald Strickland began working as a pharmacist there in 1956 and bought the business in 1960, naming it Strickland’s Pharmacy. He owned the business until 1981 when he sold the other half, having sold the other half several years earlier, to pharmacist Billy Strickland. It stayed in that location until 1983 when it moved into its current location at 111 E. Barnard. In 2002, Billy Strickland’s

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Tattnall county living

after many years, The building on 107-B East Barnard Street, in downtown Glennville, has been given new life.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Even though the two joined buildings are known as 107 East Barnard and 109 East Barnard, in referring in this story to these two buildings, the one adjacent to the alley has been referred to as the east building and the one adjacent to it referred to as the west building, now a thrift store on the first floor. Maybe to further confuse the readers, East Barnard Street begins at the corner of Caswell Street at the Green Tea Restaurant onward towards the Glennwanis Hotel. West Barnard Street begins at the other corner of Caswell, at the Stepping Stones Family Wellness Center, LLC, and goes toward the Glennville First Baptist Church. Many residents may erroneously think that Hwy. 301 separates East Barnard from West Barnard, but it is Caswell Street instead.

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Tattnall county living

son, pharmacist Dennis Strickland, bought the business from his father. Since 1960 to the present, the name has remained as Strickland’s Pharmacy.

Gerald Strickland has memories of living on the second floor as a ten-year-old boy. “My granddaddy, Arnie Strickland, built and owned the building. It was known as the Strickland Building.

(Note the “S” at the top of the building.) We moved there in August of 1943 shortly after a fire had occurred on the second floor,” said Gerald.

His family included his father and mother, Bill and Lucile Strickland, his sister, Betty, who later became the wife of Joe Davis and was a Tattnall school teacher, and Gerald.

“The downstairs was a cafe (where Strickland’s Pharmacy was from 1960 to 1981). We stayed in two rooms upstairs and rented the other ten rooms,” said Gerald, “with the establishment known as the Tattnall Hotel and Cafe, with the cafe on the bottom floor.”

To fully understand the size of the upstairs at that time, it also included the upstairs of the adjacent building. Sometime around 1966, after Arnie Strickland’s death in December of 1965, the wall was erected between the upstairs of the two buildings, as Jack Kerr recollects. However, in the 1940s, the top floor reached to the still existent exterior black iron stairwell that leads down to the side alley, which opens to Barnard Street.

“The rooms stayed rented, especially filling up with soldiers from Camp Stewart who wanted to leave the base on the weekends. We rented to people from other states and there are names in the old register book that mama kept with guests from all over,” said Gerald, “these included guests were from Shanghai, China; Detroit, Michigan; Long Island, New York; and Hartland, Vermont.”

Gerald’s mother, Lucile, was meticulous in her record keeping, and Gerald still has the ledgers of receipts and expenses in 1943 from the cafe and hotel. For one night’s stay, the cost was $1.50 in 1943, and for a week, the fee was listed as $8 and sometimes $10. Gerald recalls that there were at least two bathrooms on the second floor, with an open area in the middle, fronting Barnard Street, for socializing and accepting hotel guests.

“I have a vivid memory of one of the popular songs at that time that was frequently played on the jukebox in the cafe. The song was “Paper Doll,” a hit song by the Mills Brothers. The jukebox required a nickel to play a song,” said Gerald. This song held the number one position on the Billboard singles chart for 12 weeks, from November 6, 1943, to January 22, 1944.

Gerald recalls that his sister’s good friend, Mary Ann Hodges, would charge 10 cents on her parents’ account for a “soft drink” and pie, which was reflected in the hotel ledger.

Mary Ann’s father, Gene Hodges, had the dry cleaners facing Caswell Street, which is now the site of the Glennville Bank employee parking area. Hodges Dry Cleaners was located next to Easterling Insurance, and the Bruce Dubberly law office was on the south end of the building. These buildings were later razed.

“My daddy paid my granddaddy $100 a month rent for the downstairs cafe and upstairs hotel,” said Gerald.

“We weren’t there but a few months. It was hard work for my parents and when my father’s brother, Clinton Strickland, went into the Navy, my daddy got Uncle

Clinton’s job he had as a mail carrier.” After that, Gerald thinks perhaps Robert Kicklighter’s parents, C.W. and Ruby Dell Kicklighter, may have managed the hotel. Also, Lilly Tippins, aunt of Bill Strickland, managed the hotel at one time.

“In the fire that happened on the second floor in 1943, shortly before we moved there in August of that year, no one was injured. It did not consume the upstairs, but it blackened the timbers. However, I recall that D.C. Harrison, who was living upstairs and who was manager of the Pal Theatre at that time, to escape the fire, jumped out of a window on the second floor and broke his leg. I remember seeing him walk with a limp after that. Also, Clint DeLoach was electrocuted while making repairs to the building after the fire,” said Gerald.

The 1943 cafe ledgers are detailed…showing for one day 168 sales transactions, with $54.25 in revenue taken in, and another day showing 278 sales transactions and $102.30 in revenue. On Christmas Day in 1943, the cafe ledger showed 287 transactions and $102.27 in sales.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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The expenses were recorded in another ledger. The phone bill was $4 a month. Since 1943 was during the years of World War II, rationing was a part of everyday living. Forms/receipts for Sugar Credits, Institutional Users Application for Allotments, Meat, Fats, Fish, and Cheese Credits, and Processed Food Credits were still left in the ledgers.

“I can remember that we were allowed to purchase two pairs of shoes a year. I got my shoes wet when playing in wet grass and weeds, and I put them in front of the fireplace to dry. Well, it baked them to a ‘hardness’ so that I could not wear them again.

I recall that daddy took me to Savannah and somehow got me another pair,” said Gerald, adding that they could seldom even buy a Coca-Cola during the war years because of the shortage of sugar.

Gerald’s granddaddy, Arnie Strickland, was married to Eva Smiley Strickland, and they lived in Liberty County until moving to Glennville in 1923. From this marriage, the children were William Arnold “Bill” Strickland (Gerald’s father), Mary Strickland, Dan Bradley Strickland, Hugh Dorsey Strickland, and Clinton Howard Strickland. Eva died in 1931 and Arnie later married Mary Smiley Hillman. No children were born from this marriage.

Mary Strickland, Arnie’s daughter, married in June of 1929 P.J. Kerr, who died January 4, 1956. Their three sons were 14

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According to historical accounts shared by the late B.G. Rogers, Jr., to his nephew, Dylan Mulligan, most of the block between South Caswell, East Barnard, and South Tillman Streets, where the Strickland building is now located, originally belonged to Squire Dubberly and was passed on to his daughter, Belle, and her husband, J. Alex Smiley. Then, Eva Smiley, who married Arnie Strickland, and B. G. Rogers received the property from Eva’s parents.

Robert, Jack, and Larry Kerr. Jack is still living and resides in the Midway area. Larry died May 10, 2016 and Robert died in 1956 in a vehicle accident on Hwy. 301 between Ludowici and Glennville.

Martha Julie Kerr Dasher of Glennville, wife of Wayne Dasher, is the daughter of Robert Kerr. At the time of the accident between Ludowici and Glennville, five were in the car: Larry Kerr, Robert Kerr, Juanell Kerr (Robert’s wife), and Mary Kerr (Larry and Robert’s mother), who was holding seven-month-old Julie, who was not injured, in her arms. Mary broke her collarbone and Juanell was severely injured with several broken bones. Larry was injured but not severely, and Robert was killed in the accident.

“I know that I began living with Mama Kerr (her father’s mother) then, and my mother stayed there for months, too, recuperating in the upstairs apartment on Barnard Street. I recall living with Mama Kerr until I was probably in the third or fourth grade,” said Julie K. Dasher.

At that time, the upstairs living quarters spanned across both of the two buildings.

Strickland’s Pharmacy was the right side (if you are facing the building) on the bottom floor, and Service Grocery was on the left (next to the alley). The Service Grocery business was owned by brothers, Bradley, Hugh, and Clinton Strickland, and Hugh managed the business. “I remember as a child that we had a big coal heater upstairs and we had to bring coal up from the back of the building, where the side exterior Hometown Living At Its Best

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“My granddaddy, Arnie Strickland, built and owned the building. It was known as the Strickland Building. (Note the “S” at the top of the building.)

We moved there in August of 1943 shortly after a fire had occurred on the second floor.”

- Gerald Strickland

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Tattnall county living

access is still located. I can remember thinking how huge the upstairs was,” said Julie. Jack Kerr said he recalled living there with his parents, when he was going into the eighth grade in 1946-1947.

Julie, too, remembers that Mama Kerr took in boarders and how those childhood years held good memories of her life with Mama Kerr, a safe haven and one that she remembers happy years filled with comfort and security. “Mama Kerr was an easygoing person and a strong woman in many ways. She didn’t drive after the accident in 1956, but she had friends who would see about getting us where we needed to go. The grocery store (Service Grocery) was below us, so that was convenient, as well as was the pharmacy. We primarily used the wooden staircase that leads from the sidewalk on Barnard Street to go upstairs,” said Julie.

Julie recalls that when she lived upstairs in the late 1950s and 1960s, three bathrooms were available… one for her and Mama Kerr, who occupied the front two rooms and two other bathrooms for boarders.

Mama Kerr didn’t prepare meals for the boarders, just rented them rooms. Julie says, “The boarders were always kind to me and courteous to Mama Kerr.” One gave her a baseball signed by Casey Stengel and other famous baseball players. (Casey Stengel, 1890-1975, was an American Major League Baseball right fielder and manager, best known as the manager of both the championship New York Yankees of the 1950s and later of the expansion New York Jets.)

When she was younger, Julie remembered the Pepsi-Cola salesman was a boarder and that he would bring them the Mountain Dew drink, which was new on the market. “I lived with my mother for years after third or fourth grade, but frequently spent nights and weekends with Mama Kerr. When I was a junior in college, I started back living with her,” said Julie.

“We walked to First Christian Church, at the time located on Institute Street almost right behind us.”

She and Wayne were married at that church in June of 1976, the last wedding conducted there when the First Christian Church was in that building.

“Mama Kerr worked at the Glennville High School Cafeteria, now South Tattnall Middle School, and walked to work each day,” said Julie. “She made a

lot of my clothes, too. The Empire Store was on the corner, now the Green Tea Restaurant, on the south corner of Barnard and Caswell Streets, and she shopped at Dutton Dry Goods, owned by Sally Dutton and Frances Burkhalter at that time.”

“My friends always liked to go home with me to Mama Kerr’s upstairs home. As a child, we would dress up and just loved clomping around on the hardwood floor in her shoes. Also, from one bedroom, you could step out and see the roof of the connecting building. Those upstairs rooms hold a lot of fun times and wonderful memories spent with Mama Kerr,” said Julie.

“As a child, I would help carry the ashes downstairs from the coal stove and bring coal up the stairs. Later, Mama Kerr bought a gas stove and the hauling of coal and ashes came to a thankful end. She was a good cook but never had a recipe for anything. I watched and observed her to learn how to cook,” said Julie, who is wellknown today for her culinary skills.

Mama Kerr also had several pithy sayings that she imparted to Julie. Two of those being, “If you can’t say something good about someone, don’t

say anything at all” and “Two wrongs don’t make a right.”

Mary Kerr died at the age of 95 on August 6, 2003. She had lived with Julie and Wayne for two years before her death, then staying at Sutton Place for a period of time. The last week of her life was spent at Glenvue Nursing Home with Julie at her side most of that week. “She was an amazing person who enriched my life and gave me so many cherished memories and special times in her loving care and devotion to me,” said Julie.

When Julie moved back to Mama Kerr’s while in college, the adjacent building had been sold to Thurmon Dasher and a wall was on the top floor separating the top floors of the two buildings.

Today that top floor on the east side is owned by heirs of Thurmon Dasher and has been converted into apartments, with the bottom floor rented as retail space.

In tracing the ownership of the Strickland Building, known as that since its construction in 1931, Arnie Strickland had the building erected. In a 1957 deed, it appears that Mary Strickland Kerr, Arnie’s daughter, and Mary Smiley Strickland, the

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Service Grocery was operated for many years by Hugh Dorsey Strickland, one of the sons of Eva and Arnie Strickland, and Hugh’s wife, the former Hazel Durrence.

Service Grocery was located next to Strickland’s Pharmacy in the 1950s and 1960s. Hazel’s brother, G.L. Durrence, served as butcher at Service Grocery for many years.

Arnie Strickland was a major force in the development of Glennville, who also served on the Board of Directors of the Glennville Hotel Company, which built the Glennwanis Hotel in 1926. He and Alex Smiley had massive land holdings in then Liberty County (now present-day Long County), centered around the town of Smiley. All of this land was taken by the Army upon the arrival of Camp Stewart. The town was subsequently demolished, with the exception of the cemetery, which is still there, and Poplar Head Church, which was moved to the new settlement of Smiley Crossroads, further south in Long County. Gerald Strickland is the last surviving member of his family who was actually born on the family’s land before it became a part of the Ft. Stewart reservation.

second wife of Arnie after the death of his first wife, Eva Smiley Strickland, had joint one hundred percent ownership in the two adjoining buildings. A 1979 deed appears to state that Mary Strickland, second wife of Arnie, sold the east side of the building, which was Service Grocery for decades, to Thurmon M. Dasher. Thurmon M. Dasher died in 2009 and his will left the east side of the building to Mark Dasher, Connie Dasher Doolittle, Russell Terry Waters, and Kenneth Waters. The first floor is currently rented as commercial property and the top floor has been renovated in recent years and serves as three separate apartments.

The entire west side of the building of 107 E. Barnard, which has the thrift store on the bottom floor, is owned by two of the granddaughters of Mary Strickland Kerr: Julie K. Dasher, daughter of the late Robert Kerr, and Amy Kerr Cole, daughter of the late Larry Kerr. Likewise, the top floor, which has been converted into a large apartment, is owned jointly by

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Julie and Amy, with the stairway still leading from the Barnard Street sidewalk to the second floor, which is the only access to the top floor.

Wayne Dasher began gutting the upstairs rooms around 2016, taking it down to the raw wood. Whereas the space over the now thrift store was three small bedrooms, it is now two large bedrooms, a master bedroom with its own full bath, and two bathrooms are off the hall.

“It was an over two-year process and I had help from Bobby Duncan, Julie, and our daughter, Ashton, along with her fiancé, Chance Quick, who all assisted during the renovation efforts,” said Wayne. “The ceiling in the front is sheetrock, but all other walls and ceilings are pine, poplar, or cypress, and all those boards I milled at my sawmill. They actually appear to be tongue and groove, but that is due to how I milled and planed them. One side of the wall, as you walk up the stairs, is the exposed old original brick, and we added central heat and air.”

“The blackened timbers were evident and I suppose that 1943 fire never, thankfully, fully engulfed, because no air got to it,” said Wayne.

The floor is heart pine and had been painted a dark brown in earlier years. Months were spent on sandpapering the floors to the original wood.

Of course new plumbing and electrical have been installed, and all the walls are the milled lumber. The tenants of these upstairs rooms above the thrift store are the owners of the Green Tea Restaurant.

This one building, known as 107 E. Barnard and 109 E. Barnard, has a wall separating the two sides on both top and bottom floors. Once again, they serve their original purpose of downtown Glennville businesses. The second story of both sides is rented to tenants as they were in the 1940s-1960s, but in different configurations as far as apartments.

New life has been given to both sides of the upstairs, as Thurmon Dasher’s heirs have renovated the east side, just as the Wayne Dasher family has done to the west side.

History often repeats itself.  TCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Striking the Right

Chord Story BY David Pena | Photos Provided by Stephen DeLoach, Anthony Stone @creativesouthern, Ethan Helms, Andrew Langston, JD Groover, and Nicole Murphy

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tattnall county living

“It’s been a wild year.”

S t e p h e n D e L o a c h ’ s c a r e e r i n t h e m u s i c b u s i n e s s h a s ta k e n off performing with the likes of Florida Georgia Line, B r o o k s a n d D u n n a n d J a s o n A l d e a n , j u s t t o n a m e a f e w.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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I

Born and raised in Glennville, Stephen explains that his passion for music came virtually out of nowhere.

“I was an only child, and I had a pretty typical Southern upbringingchurch twice on Sunday, once during the week,” he says, “but actually no one in my family is particularly musical, so it’s odd that I’ve chosen this as a profession. We didn’t have a lot of money when I was growing up, but I did watch a number of Elvis documentaries on TV with my grandpa.

I guess that’s where it all started.”

If you’ve ever thought about a career in the music business, then you may be surprised to know that the state of the industry is the best it’s ever been, at least from an artistic perspective. For instance, it’s now easier than ever to record and release one’s own music without the constraints of a record company.

Plus, the onset of music streaming has given the public ample opportunities to listen to your music in a highly portable, customized fashion. However, in spite of all this, actually making music for a living is quite a different story altogether.

For most professional musicians, there’s rarely a steady schedule or income. And while traveling the country playing music can be quite appealing at first, a life on the road does come with an abundance of drawbacks.

For instance, the constant traveling makes for a nontraditional family life. Plus, having to perform in smoky clubs and enduring the “party atmosphere” may not be the healthiest of lifestyle choices. Musicians also generally don’t enjoy the benefits that come with a steadier job, such as health insurance and retirement income, so it can be a struggle to make ends meet.

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Otis Redding really caught my attention. Like Elvis, he engaged the entire audience, and they became dialed into the words and feelings of his songs.

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So how did a twenty-six-year-old

the likes of Florida Georgia Line, Brooks

Glennville native come to find himself on

and Dunn and Jason Aldean, just to name

tour this summer with country phenom

a few.

Luke Bryan? “We signed a record deal

Born and raised in Glennville, Stephen

with EMI about a year ago,” explains

explains that his passion for music

Stephen DeLoach, now a Nashville

came virtually out of nowhere. “I was

transplant, “and my boss just happened

an only child, and I had a pretty typical

to be Luke Bryan, who I’ll be touring

Southern upbringing-church twice on

with in a of couple months. It’s been a

Sunday, once during the week,” he says,

wild year.” Indeed, since moving to the

“but actually no one in my family is

music capital, he’s also performed with

particularly musical, so it’s odd that I’ve

tattnall county living

Stephen’s mother, Cindy, explains how her son first got into guitar. “He got his first guitar when he was about eight or nine. My dad always loved guitar picking, so when Stephen mentioned to him that he was going to take guitar lessons, he bought one for him.”

chosen this as a profession. We didn’t have a lot of money when I was growing up, but I did watch a number of Elvis documentaries on TV with my grandpa. I guess that’s where it all started.”

Stephen’s mother, Cindy, explains how her son first got into guitar. “He got his first guitar when he was about eight or nine. My dad always loved guitar picking, so when Stephen mentioned to him that he was going to take guitar lessons, he bought one for him. Stephen and his grandfather (Cindy’s father) were very close, like two peas in a pod.” The

“We signed a record deal with EMI about a year ago and my boss just happened to be Luke Bryan, who I’ll be touring with in a of couple months. It’s been a wild year.” youngster made it a point to practice on his new guitar every day. “He’d walk around the house or yard just strumming it proudly,” she adds.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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From then on, the budding musician would usually spend his nights listening to the oldies stations in Savannah for his inspiration, and one particular artist made quite the impression on him. “Otis Redding really caught my attention. Like Elvis, he engaged the entire audience, and they became dialed into the words and feelings of his songs.” Stephen would then use his mother’s portable cassette player to record songs off the radio to play back and learn later. “I’d try to learn the songs I’d recorded by ear.

It wasn’t easy, but that’s how I started playing,” he recalls.

After learning some of the basics, Stephen taught himself how to read chord charts, and then began taking lessons at Deloach’s Music (no relation) in Statesboro. His guitar teacher, Nathan Smith was quite impressed with the young musician’s aptitude for music. “I’m not surprised by his success,” says Nathan. “Besides what I could teach him, Stephen would always go above and beyond to learn things on his own. He would also go back to Glennville to teach a roster of students after our lessons.”

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tattnall county living

“It’s funny - guitar used to be my main instrument until about two years ago. However, when I was in the studios, I basically started playing bass and keyboards out of necessity. Now ironically, playing the bass is how I earn my living.”

After getting quite musically proficient,

Once he graduated from Tattnall

Stephen then began competing in local

County High School, Stephen moved

music competitions. By age 14, he

to Dahlonega, Georgia in order to serve

started playing with a performing arts

as a counselor at a 4-H Camp. “Georgia

group called Clovers and Company. The

4-H has been a huge part of my life,

young guitarist was hooked; his interest

and it allowed me to do a lot of things

in music became a passion, and he found

in my teens,” he says. “From there I

himself yearning to make a career of it.

attended Valdosta State, but not for

However, for the restless teen, Glennville

very long.” Pretty soon Stephen found

was a starting point, not the finish line, so

himself gigging with local bands on

it wasn’t long before he left his beloved

the weekends, much to the dismay of

hometown.

his mother, Cindy. “My mom is a huge

Hometown Living At Its Best

35

gospel fan and very religious, so she

Mayday Parade and began playing as

was not too thrilled about my evenings

a session player.” It was through these

spent playing in bars. “I wasn’t happy

studio sessions and regular gigs that

about it, but I didn’t want to stand in the

Stephen started to make connections in

way of what he wanted to do,” she says.

the industry that would help pave the

However, Stephen’s friends were very

way for his future.

supportive of his music, and they urged him to pursue it full time.

Feeling ready for the big time, in 2012 Stephen moved to Nashville, the

The young musician soon found himself

heart of the music industry, in order to

playing in a successful country band that

pursue his dream. “People would tell

was quite in demand. In fact, in order to

me to go ahead and move (to Nashville)

devote more time to his passion, Stephen

while I’m young since I may not have

dropped out of college after only two

the chance when I’m older. When I

semesters. “I like to tell folks I’m still on

got up here, I really threw myself into

my break,” he laughs, “but the truth is

songwriting and recording full-time,”

I figured out how much people with my

he explains. “It’s funny - guitar used to

major earn, and I was already earning

be my main instrument until about two

that much playing music.” He also

years ago. However, when I was in the

worked in a recording studio, helping

studios, I basically started playing bass

out other bands with their recordings.

and keyboards out of necessity. Now

“I worked for the producer of the band

ironically, playing the bass is how I earn my living.”

It was around this time that country artist

“We now run a studio called Sound Castle Productions, and I’ve been recording and songwriting with a few folks in town for a while. However, there’s nothing quite like the high you get from (playing) live music.”

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tattnall county living

Trea Landon brought Stephen out on the road as his bass player. “Through Trea, I reconnected with Jon Langston, who I’d known before and who I’m playing with now, and that’s how I merged into his camp,” he says. “In fact, (Langston) was the first person I met when I moved

to Nashville.” The meeting happened to

and in this industry.” Stephen’s mother,

be quite fortuitous, since Langston soon

Cindy, says his family is pleasantly

asked Stephen to join his band full time.

surprised by his relatively quick success

Two years later, Stephen is enjoying the

in show business. “I would have never

benefits of being a professional musician

thought that he’d be this far into music at

whose skills are ever in demand. “We

his (young) age, but we’re all very proud

now run a studio called Sound Castle

of him and can’t wait to see what he does

Productions, and I’ve been recording and

next.”  TCL

songwriting with a few folks in town for a while. However, there’s nothing quite like the high you get from (playing) live music. I was in 38 states last year, and I’ve been blessed to meet some really great people, both on the public side

Hometown Living At Its Best

37

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Glennville Sweet Onion Festival

Glennville Festival Sweet Onion

2019

G

lennville’s biggest annual event, the Glennville Sweet Onion Festival, has hosted over 40 years of events, and sunny skies have shone upon almost every one. The festive day on the second Saturday of each May celebrates the harvesting of the famous Vidalia sweet onion crop.

The day begins with a sweet onion run and walk and a downtown parade. Then on to the State Farmers’ Market on Highway 301 South for an array of arts and crafts, delightful entertainment, children’s rides and games, the fascinating World Champion Turtle Races and delectable food (that includes fried sweet onion rings and blooming onions). The event draws over 6,000 people each year.

Tattnall County, of which the community of Glennville is the largest, grows more Vidalia Sweet Onions than any of the other official Georgia Department of Agriculture Vidalia Sweet Onion growing counties, contributing approximately half of the entire state crop each year.

FESTIVAL CHAIRMAN Wayne Dasher

FESTIVAL CO-CHAIRPERSON

Shellie B. Smith

Dr. Paul Thompson, Onion Run Chairman South Georgia Bank - Jay Hales, Parade Chairman Anthony Howard, Entertainment Chairperson Anita Dasher, 2018 Miss Georgia Sweet Onion Pageant Director Shellie B. Smith, Craft and Food Vendors

Sponsored By Glennville Sweet Onion Festival Committee

912-654-1616 | 706-970-5738 | www.glennvillesweetonion.com

“You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children�

If you have a child or grandchild that is from birth up to five years of age you can register them in this program and they will receive an age appropriate book each month. The expense for these books will be funded by the Glennville Rotary Club.

42

tattnall county living

Contact: Jay Martin For more info Please call 912.654.3045 or 912.288.0469

5

PLEASE REGISTER your child for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

TODAY!

• The child must have a Tattnall County mailing address • The address must be a physical address • The child must be from the age of birth to the age of five

Greater Tattnall Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet - 2019

Lifetime Achievement Award L-r: Linda Curl, James Curl and Angie Duckworth

Lifetime Achievement Award - Dr. J. Troy Rahn, DDS Front l-r: Hunter Rahn, Katelyn Rahn, Lindsey Rahn, Ansley Rahn, Claire Rahn, Cadon Rahn. Back (left to right) Jim Rahn, Tammy Rahn, Jane Rahn, Sandra Rahn, Al Rahn, Gloria Rahn, Dan Rahn, Troy Rahn, Tattnall County Chamber VP/ Economic Development Angie Duckworth presenting plaque for Community Involvement to the Dr. J. Troy Rahn, DDS, Allen Edenfield, Judy Edenfield, Jud Rahn, Kathryn Rahn

Tattnall County Citizen of the Year of the Year - Mark Thompson L-r: Emily Thompson, Christy Thompson, Mark Thompson and Tattnall County Chamber VP/Economic Development Angie Duckworth presenting plaque for Community Involvement to Mark Thompson.

Special Service Award L-r: Dianne Sharpe Sapp and Angie Duckworth

Community Involvement - Glennville Rotary Club Front row, l to r: Glennville Rotarians Lee Dubberly, Tiffany Sittle, Shellie Smith, and Pam Waters; Tattnall County Chamber VP/Economic Development Angie Duckworth presenting plaque for Community Involvement to the Glennville Rotary Club; and Glennville Rotarians Darla Kicklighter and Joe Sikes. Middle row: Glennville Rotarians Jay Hales, Mickey Anderson, Dr. Paul Thompson, and Lisa Barry.

Back row: Glennville Rotarians Chris Roessler, Paul Stavriotis, Dennis Strickland, Dr. Troy Rahn, Donald Fountain, and Amy Murray.

Business of the Year Claxton Poultry

Business of the Year M.W. Collins, Inc

Service Business of the Year.

Canoochee EMC

The Greater Tattnall Chamber of Commerce Junior Board of Directors Greater Tattnall Chamber of Commerce presents their Junior Board of Directors for 2018/2019

JUNIOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS JUNIORS Front row (l to r): Emma Smith, Jayda Eason, Emma Murray, Carson Durrence (Treasurer), Sapan Patel (Vice President), Taylor Petermann (President), Marlee McArthur (Secretary), McKaela Howard, Sydney Anne Strickland, and Sean Davis.

Second row: Karen Narvaez, Nicholas McCall, Sarah Melton, Jonah Mercer, Avery Martin, and Gracie Gonzalez. Third row: Amy Hernandez, Cheyenne Gottwald, Jayla Swiatko, Parker Tatum, Bethany Rush, Page Kight, Ashlyn Waters, and Emily Thompson.

VP/ S,

nity y.

JUNIOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS - SENIORS Front row l-r: Leslie Granados-Treasurer, Jack Shuman-President, and Emily Juarez-Salas- Secretary.

Second row l-r: Brody Kicklighter, Emma Waters, Rhett Loyed, KeAndre Cain, Macy Longo, and Jenna Dasher. Third row l-r: Willie Laurent, Mykala Bond, Guadalupe Martinez-Castro, Tonya Saucedo, Chloe Oliver, Aiyana Pearson, Shelby Pierce, Shai Barnes, Hally Spikes, and Patrick Oglesbee. Fourth row l-r: Edwin Flores, Kayla Garrett, Chase McCloud, Storm Caswell, Zynasia Anderson, Malcolm Williams, Dezrae Lockett, and Carson DeLoach. Not pictured: Elijah DeLoach-Vice President

JUNIOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS - SENIORS Front row (l to r): Leslie Granados-Treasurer, Jack Shuman-President, and Emily Juarez Salas- Secretary. 2nd row: Sorana Bacon, Caitlyn Lowe, Lirric McGee, Jose Ramirez, Haley McDaniel, and Linnsey Lively. 3rd row: Taniya Cooper, Skyya Bacon, Ana Hernandez, Camille Overton, Noah Montgomery, Anjale Wicker, Asia Bacon, Alondra Nopal, and Abby Foster. 4th row: Abigail Mauldin, Diana Hernandez, and Aaron Fox. Not pictured: Elijah DeLoach-Vice President

Junior Board Top 5 Award - l-r: Hally Spikes, Willie Laurent, Chloe Oliver, Abby Foster and Jose Ramirez

Junior Board Member of the Year L-r: Edwin Flores and Dusty West

Business Employee of the Year L-r: Joanne Thomas, Tattnall Healthcare and Angie Duckworth

Business Person of the Year L-r: Elliott Lanier and Logan Lanier of Reidsville Electric/ACE Hardware and Angie Duckworth

Government Employee of the Year L-r: Laverne Cannon, City of Cobbtown and Angie Duckworth

Fresh and Local 46

tattnall county living

Story BY LISA WALENCEUS | Photos by Rose Colored Lens LLC

Jessica Kennedy has set out to make Glennville a local fresh food hub.

he 2017 UGA Georgia Farm Gate Value Report ranked Tattnall County sixth among the state’s agriculture producing counties, with a total value of $324,647,633. Given the county’s abundance of fresh and seasonal produce, making Glennville a local food hub just seemed like a natural choice for young entrepreneur Jessica Kennedy. “I have a deep appreciation for what farmers mean to our community,” she says.

“Without our farmers, we wouldn’t really have a community.”

“Our main industry is agriculture — Claxton Poultry, Rotary Corporation, Nature’s Choice, Armstrong’s Cricket Farm, and Mascot Pecan

Hometown Living At Its Best

47

Company — these are all ag-based

“We didn’t get the easiest of starts,”

businesses that are important to this

Jessica says. “The first week was a

town.” she continues. “I see a farmers

record-setting 102 degrees, before the

market in downtown Glennville that

heat index. The second week, we had

connects people with locally grown,

a severe thunderstorm while we were

farm fresh produce as a perfect fit with

setting up, and the third week, we had a

our community’s ‘brand.’”

flash flood.” “But people came anyway,”

Jessica secured access, to the newly created open space next to the Glennwanis

she continues. “The support from the community has been phenomenal.”

Hotel on East Barnard Street, from the

Jessica’s commitment to the new

City of Glennville. The next step was to

farmers market is fueled both by her

organize the farmers.

family background in farming and by

“We had space for about 20 vendors,”

her experience with running a downtown

she explains. “I just started contacting

business. “My family has farmed near

local farmers from an old Farm Fresh

Mendes for four generations, since 1918,”

Tattnall Co-Op brochure, an agritourism

Jessica explains. “My grandfather still

trail that isn’t happening anymore. The

lives in the house where he was born.”

immediate, positive response was more

“My father and grandfather grow

than I ever expected. Even if a potential

chickens, cattle, field corn, hay, as well

vendor couldn’t make it to the market at

as an assortment of ‘garden’ crops and

“I just started contacting local farmers from an old Farm Fresh Tattnall Co-Op brochure, an agritourism trail that isn’t happening anymore. The immediate, positive response was more than I ever expected.

Even if a potential vendor couldn’t make it to the market at the time, they were still very supportive.”

the time, they were still very supportive.”

“No matter what its problems, Facebook has been a huge resource for us,” she

“OUR MAIN INDUSTRY IS AGRICULTURE —

laughs. “Social media is a great way to

CLAXTON POULTRY, ROTARY CORPORATION,

get the word out. It is instant, people see

NATURE’S CHOICE, ARMSTRONG’S CRICKET

what you have going on; they see the vendors you will have this week or who was there last week.”

In all, a total of 42 vendors participated

FARM, AND MASCOT PECAN COMPANY — THESE ARE ALL AG-BASED BUSINESSES THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO THIS TOWN.”

in the 2019 launch, with some coming to every market day and others coming to only a few. From its start in May, the

row crops,” she continues. “They are

market has drawn consistent crowds

also known for their peas and tomatoes.”

approaching 200 customers every week

“Hard work and faith are two of the best

over its nine-week run.

words I could use to describe a farmer’s

48

tattnall county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

49

50

tattnall county living

approach to life,” Jessica says. “To be a

“I SEE A FARMERS MARKET IN

farmer, you have to have faith that your seed is good, you have to have faith that your fertilizer is on the ground at the right time, you have to have faith that

DOWNTOWN

it will rain, and, most importantly, you

GLENNVILLE

have to have faith in God.” “Farmers can’t

THAT CONNECTS PEOPLE WITH LOCALLY GROWN, FARM FRESH PRODUCE

be scared of hard work either; there is nothing that comes to them the easy way.”

Jessica carries on her family’s farming tradition on her own homestead with her fiancé, Joseph Mitchell. “I raise chickens, I have about 30 now,” she says. “I actually had a workshop at the

AS A PERFECT

Glennville library on raising them. It’s

FIT WITH OUR

not for everyone, I guess, but I find it

COMMUNITY’S BRAND.”

truly rewarding.

There is a definite

different taste to a farm-fresh egg versus a store-bought egg.”

“I also have rabbits. I started with just

Hometown Living At Its Best

51

the Downtown Development Authority for the last year. “I see each vendor at the Downtown Glennville Farmers Market as a potential business that could locate here permanently,” she explains. “We have, on average, four people selling baked goods each week; one of them could become a bakery in a downtown store.”

“Our barbecue vendor or the ice cream vendor could get a store front, too, or maybe the vendor who sells artisan jewelry,” she continues. “Several of our vendors have reached out already, and some have even looked at buildings. four, but now I have eighteen, because…

I just hope the farmers market helps

you know rabbits,” she laughs. “Joseph

people and our community, too.”

and I also grow pumpkins, spaghetti eggplants,

always be what people expect from

cucumbers, and cantaloupes. One week,

millennials, but, for Jessica, it’s a way

I made and sold pumpkin pies for the

of life. “I always try to do canned food

farmers market.”

drives when natural disasters strike,” she

squash,

In addition to being a small farmer, Jessica is also a master cosmetologist, working in downtown Glennville since 2011 and becoming the owner of Jessica’s Chop Shop in 2016.

52

tattnall county living

Community-mindedness may not

summer

squash,

In addition to being a small farmer,

says. “For Hurricane Harvey I collected

Jessica is also a master cosmetologist,

two truckloads of donated food through

working

my shop.

in

downtown

Glennville

since 2011 and becoming the owner of

Mr. Tommy Coleman helped me take

Jessica’s Chop Shop in 2016. “I grew up

it to Claxton and Liz Porter got the

in Claxton with my mom, but I lived with

donations to Texas. I’m proud of our

my father in Glennville while I worked

local generosity and the willingness

my way through school…first at East

to help that made it all happen,” she

Georgia College, then I graduated from

explains.

Ogeechee Tech. I decided to build my career here,” she says.

Jessica is dedicated to promoting

Jessica will continue to put her community spirit into action with a second

Glennville

Farmers

Market

Glennville as a center of commerce in

scheduled for fall 2019. “I just hope it’s a

Tattnall County, serving as a member of

little cooler,” she laughs.  TCL

“WE DIDN’T GET THE EASIEST OF STARTS, THE FIRST WEEK WAS A RECORD-SETTING 102 DEGREES. THE SECOND WEEK, WE HAD A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM, AND THE THIRD WEEK, WE HAD A FLASH FLOOD. BUT PEOPLE CAME ANYWAY, THE SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY HAS BEEN PHENOMENAL.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

53

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tattnall county living

City Of Glennville Mayor, City Council and Appointed Officials

Administration

Fire Department

Police Department

Public Works

www.cityofglennville.com City of Glennville | 134 S. Veterans Boulevard | Glennville, GA 30427 | (912) 654-2461 | Fax: (912) 654-2488

Rocking

Kindness

62

Tattnall county living

[ STORY BY GAIL DIXON AND PHOTOS BY SHANNON ROWLAND BROWN & GAIL DIXON ]

Tattnall County Rocks shares smiles through simple acts of kindness, one painted rock at a time.

If you have a Facebook account, you have probably seen pictures of the beautiful rocks that have been painted – and hidden – by young and old around the county. Tattnall County Rocks is a group of “rockers” that was organized in June 2017. The founders include Shannon Rowland Brown, Paula Kicklighter and Alicia Burris.

These women started a group that has brought love and smiles to a lot of people, and has given everyone something

Hometown Living At Its Best

63

to look forward to every day. With painted rocks, this group teaches children and adults that a simple gesture can go a long way.

Shannon says her whole family is artistic, but her sister, Toni, is the one who inspired her to paint rocks.

Growing up, Toni would collect rocks and then paint them. She would give the painted rocks to Shannon, who loved and appreciated the rocks. A rock group was started in Appling County and Toni encouraged Shannon to begin a rock group in Tattnall. Despite her initial resistance, Shannon gave in and Tattnall County Rocks was organized.

“I saw something about the rock group on Facebook,” Paula says about her first experience with the group. “Intrigued, I took my son rock hunting.

Within the week I reached out to Shannon and offered 64

Tattnall county living

to help with the group and also do a public family paint day. Shannon accepted my help and allowed me to be an active admin and we did the family paint day, which went great.”

Alicia has lived in Tattnall County for two years and was looking for a Kindness Rock Page when she found Tattnall’s Facebook page. She has always loved painting rocks, but never shared them with anyone. By joining Tattnall’s rock group, Alicia has made new friends, stepped out of her comfort zone, and shared her beautifully painted rocks with the local community.

“I like knowing if there’s someone who has had a bad day and he ‘stumbles’ upon one of my rocks, it helped in some small way to make him feel better,” Alicia says. “Our goal is to bring people some

Shannon says her whole family is artistic, but her sister, Toni, is the one who inspired her to paint rocks. Growing up, Toni would collect rocks and then paint them. She would give the painted rocks to Shannon, who loved and appreciated the rocks. A rock group was started in Appling County and Toni encouraged Shannon to begin a rock group in Tattnall.

Hometown Living At Its Best

65

“I am amazed at how much we have grown, and at how many people are taking part of just doing something for someone else, without expecting anything in return.”

Shannon says she enjoys painting rocks because it’s a much-needed distraction from life’s troubles. “I paint them to make someone smile when I also need to smile myself. I paint them for the hugs I get from children who enjoy them. I paint them so that people will come outside and spend time with their kids and enjoy the community. I paint them for someone who needs a pick-me-up or a reason to get out of the house,” she says.

66

Tattnall county living

happiness. Not only that, but painting is very good therapy!”

Tattnall County Rocks was started for family fun and kindness and has grown into a communitywide effort. It’s a small way to encourage people to get out and spend time with one another – and spread some smiles along the way.

“I am amazed at how much we have grown, and at how many people are taking part of just doing something for someone else, without expecting anything in return,” says Shannon. “If you post clues on the Facebook page, expect your rocks to be found. Even

Hometown Living At Its Best

67

spreading joy

68

Tattnall county living

One way of spreading joy was for Tattnall County Rocks to have a booth at the Wiregrass Festival in September 2017. The booth, hosted

by Shannon and Paula, was set up for children and adults to learn how to paint rocks. About 227 painted rocks were hidden just for children to hunt. Thirty of those rocks were labeled as “prize rocks,� which gave the lucky winners $5 for each rock found. There were trophies and money given to the winners of a painted rock contest, too.

Among the “rockers” activities since the group started, there have been prize rocks for children where a toy or another small prize was hidden with the rock. There have been rock hunts where one main rock was hidden and many clues were given in order to find the rock.

if you don’t find a rock, you spent time with your child, talked about his day, and have had some quality time away from television or video games, which is worth much more than a rock!

I have also met people that I never would have known because of painted rocks and simple acts of kindness – and I am better for it.”

Shannon says she enjoys painting rocks because it’s a much-needed distraction from life’s troubles. “I paint them to make someone smile when I also need to smile myself. I paint them for the hugs I get from children who enjoy them. I paint them so that people will come outside and spend time with their kids and enjoy the community. I paint them for someone who needs a pick-me-up or a reason to get out of the house,” she says. “They are just rocks, but it’s a small piece of me that goes out into the world to try and make a tiny difference. ... It’s a little way to spread some joy and kindness in a troubled world. When I’m doing for others, it really is doing something for myself.”

One way of spreading joy was for Tattnall County Rocks to have a booth at the Wiregrass Festival in September 2017. The booth, hosted

by Shannon and Paula, was set up for children and adults to learn how to paint rocks. About 227 painted rocks were hidden just for children to hunt. Thirty of those rocks were labeled as “prize rocks,” which gave the lucky winners $5 for each rock found. There were trophies and money

Hometown Living At Its Best

69

To join the group, all you need to do is find a rock. “If you find a rock, please post on our Tattnall County Rocks Facebook page. It’s as much fun seeing when the rocks are found as it is painting and putting them out.

70

Tattnall county living

given to the winners of a painted rock contest, too.

Those 200-plus rocks were proof that when painting, people really let their creativity flow and their imaginations run wild. A popular rock is the cactus rock, a rock painted like a cactus and placed in a flower pot to look like a real cactus.

Another favorite is the quilt rock. It’s a rock divided into sections where someone paints one section, then hides the rock for someone else to find. The finder paints another section, hides it again and the process continues until the whole rock is painted.

Among the “rockers” activities since the group started, there have been prize rocks for children where a toy or another small prize was hidden with the rock. There have been rock hunts where one main rock was hidden and many clues were given in order to find the rock.

Despite their rocking good times, Tattnall County Rocks is not just about painting and hiding rocks. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, rockers donated $420 to Tattnall C.A.R.E.S. In November, they had a Turkey for Tattnall Day, where they partnered with sponsors and volunteers to prepare 300 plates to be delivered to people in need. In March, a raffle was held to raise money for the LennoxGastaut Syndrome Foundation. This is a rare type of epilepsy that is medication- and treatmentresistant.

Rockers are always willing to help out when needed. “It doesn’t matter if kindness comes in the form of a dollar, a meal, a smile, holding the door open, taking an elderly person to grocery shop, or leaving an inspirational rock; kindness is kindness,” Shannon says. “In a world filled with ugliness, do your part to spread kindness. Even if you don’t get recognized, it doesn’t undo the act of being kind in a world where we need it most.”

To join the group, all you need to do is find a rock. “If you find a rock, please post on our Tattnall County Rocks Facebook page. It’s as much fun seeing when the rocks are found as it is painting and putting them out. Also, please pay it

forward by re-hiding some for the ones you keep.

If you want your rocks to last, use a good sealer to protect your artwork,” Shannon says.

The group’s rules for rocking include: Do not put rocks in grassy areas where it may get caught in a lawn mower and cause damage to property. Never put rocks on private property unless it’s permitted. Stay away from ATM money dispensers. Remember, very small rocks can be a choking hazard for small kids. Keep artwork G-rated. Respect the property of local businesses; let owners know of your intent and seek their permission.

“This is about kindness, sharing and family fun, so please be considerate of one another,” says Shannon. When you are out and about in Tattnall County, be on the lookout for painted rocks. Join the group on Facebook and help make someone smile – one rock at a time.  TCL

Since this article was written, hundreds of rocks have been painted and hidden! Young and old enjoy participating. Some of the group’s rocks have traveled to other parts of Georgia, Florida, South and North Carolina. (My family and I have vacationed at Jacksonville Beach for the past two years and we took rocks to hide at the hotel and surrounding areas. It is so much fun to hide the rocks and watch “strangers” find them and post on FB.) Check out our FB page.

Hometown Living At Its Best

71

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Determined to Succeed

No matter what the future may bring for Destiny, she will be the best she can be because she is determined to succeed.

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On June 28, 1994, a beautiful baby girl was born to Donnie and Andrea Ashford-Levant of Reidsville. Since the day Destiny was born, she has been an inspiration to many, young and old.

Growing up, Destiny had three great role models, her grandparents, Sylvester and Juanita Ashford, and her mom. As we were talking, Destiny laughed as she told me, “When I was younger, I wanted to be a waitress at Red Lobster because that was where Granddaddy took me to eat. I loved their cheddar biscuits!” But, later in life, she realized that wouldn’t work and she wanted to be a teacher. Destiny explains, “Education runs through my family lineage, I’m a third-generation teacher. Coming from a remarkable line of educators, I was taught to never let anything or anyone stand in the way of pursuing my passions. Children are my essence. My granddaddy, grandmother, and mom adored the teaching profession, thus fostering a greater calling. Due to their influence, I have learned to respect and embrace

Education, Respect and Embrace I’m a third-generation teacher. I was taught to never let anything or anyone stand in the way of pursuing my passions.

Children are my essence. I have learned to respect and embrace individuals from all backgrounds and various social differences. My family and teachers always inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others.”

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individuals from all backgrounds and various social differences. My family and teachers always inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others.”

When Destiny was two, Andrea decided to put her in the Tiny Miss Sweet Onion Pageant in Glennville. Andrea recalls, “Destiny had the prettiest pink dress, but it was naptime and she showed out!” The next year, Andrea decided to try one more pageant. At age 3, Destiny wore the same little pink dress (because she was tiny, she could wear it two years in a row) and again participated in Tiny Miss Sweet Onion and won! Andrea would ask Destiny if she wanted to do other pageants and Destiny would say, “Sure!” Pageants began to spark

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their interests and Destiny participated in various ones throughout elementary, middle, and high school.

Graduating from Tattnall County High School in 2012, Destiny continued her education at the University of Georgia; she is a 2016 Cum Laude Graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Destiny is working on her Master’s at the University of West Georgia and hopes to have that degree in 2020.

Pageants began as a hobby for Destiny, but became a larger part of her life once she began participating in the Miss America Organization.

Some of her pageant participation includes:

Photo by Matt Boyd Photography Hometown Living At Its Best

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Photo by Matt Boyd Photography

Pageants began as a hobby for Destiny, but became a larger part of her life once she began participating in the Miss America Organization.

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Miss Southeast Georgia – 1st Runner-Up, Swimsuit Winner, and Bob Ritchie Memorial Photogenic Award (2015), 1st Runner-Up and Miss Congeniality (2017) Miss University of Georgia – 3rd Runner-Up (2014) and 2nd Runner-Up (2015) Miss International City – Fitness Award and 3rd Runner-Up (2015); 2nd Runner-Up (2017), and 1st Runner-Up (2019) Miss Macon – Queen, Swimsuit Winner, and Talent Winner (2016) Miss Altamaha – Queen, Swimsuit Winner, and People’s Choice (2017) Miss Emmanuel County – Queen, Swimsuit Winner, Talent Winner, Miss Congeniality (2018) Miss Golden Isles – 1st Runner-Up (2015); Queen, Talent Winner, Swimsuit Winner, and Miss Congeniality (2019) Miss Georgia – Producer’s Award (2016), Non-Finalist Interview Award and Educational Studies Award (2017), Top 15 Finalists and Educational Studies Award (2018), Top 12 Finalists, Educational Studies Award, and Producer’s Award (2019)

Destiny was the top ad seller for each Miss Georgia Competition she participated in and has won an estimated $10,000 in scholarship money over the past five years. I

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Photo by Matt Boyd Photography

asked Destiny what her students thought about having a pageant participant/queen for a teacher, she replied, “My students are not star struck, but they are curious. Several of my students are avid pageant participants, so it is nice to serve as a role model for them in that capacity.” She shared an interesting observation from Read Across America Week at her school. While reading to different grade levels in her crown and sash, one student raised his hand and said, “You look like that teacher in 5th grade! Are you her twin?” For a while, she honestly had some students thinking she was a twin.

Andrea says of Destiny, “She is truly a gifted person. I’m always there to listen to her, but she is able to work things out just by my listening and not saying a word!” Destiny is pretty like her mom, but has the sense of humor of her dad. She says, “Dad is witty, quick with his words. I keep telling him that I want him to visit my class and teach figurative language because he’s so funny.” One favorite childhood memory that Destiny recalls is riding the tractor with her dad and watching the seeds drop… her face just brightens up even more as she talks about the days spent riding the tractor with her dad.

Family means a lot to the Levant’s…they are always there for each other, offer advice when it is wanted,

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and they support each other!

Most people know Destiny to be all work and no play. Her parents even felt she led a boring life.

This all changed when Destiny had to take her car to the Ford dealership and had an encounter with a young man, Kenny Jones, working there. “Dad introduced us, we started messaging each other, and we began dating in 2011 and are still dating today,” says Destiny.

Destiny enjoys teaching 5th grade reading and social studies at Toombs Central Elementary School (TCES); she will begin her fourth year of teaching in August. When asked why 5th grade, Destiny explained, “I guess it just worked out that way. I did my student teaching and my practicum in 5th grade and the job opening at TCES was in 5th grade. I didn’t think I would like it, but I love the content, and I love that the students are interested in what I teach.” She laughs as she continues, “The first year I taught, my students had no concept of time. They thought I was only 16 years old.”

“Ironically, I’ve taught some of my mom’s students’ children. Because students tend to move around during the school year, Mom and I have taught two of the same children.”

Along with teaching, Destiny has other responsibilities at TCES. Her roles include: Toombs County 4-H Cloverleaf Cub Teacher Sponsor, Literary Team Member, Red Ribbon Week Committee Member, Junior BETA Club Sponsor, and is the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) School Representative.

Destiny’s mom is still teaching at Reidsville Elementary, but is thinking about retiring in the near future and her dad works with the Paul Thigpen Ford Lincoln in Vidalia. Destiny has four siblings, four nieces and two nephews.

“I attend the First African Missionary Baptist Church in Glennville…it’s a family thing. My great-granddad and my granddaddy are founders of the church,” says Destiny. She sings in the choir and helps her mom with Vacation Bible School.

Even though pageants are a part of Destiny’s life, she still has time for a few hobbies. She enjoys watching college football, especially UGA! Her favorite movies are kids’ movies because she likes the challenge of finding the underlying message.

Scrapbooking is a big thing with Destiny because she is very nostalgic. She also enjoys shopping and going on weekend trips with her mom, along with spending time with her family and friends. Other interesting facts about Destiny include: being an avid collector of pig memorabilia due to childhood memories of her dad raising hogs, she’s addicted to Hoarders because she likes the challenge of being able to “organize” their mess, she’s a member of a multiracial family, and she is known for making some pretty good pound cakes.

“Granddaddy had a lot of wisdom and he passed some of that along to me. His goal for me was to become a lawyer, but my goal was to be a Principal just like him,” Destiny explains. “My future goals include obtaining a Doctorate degree, getting married and having a family in the future, and possibly serving as Superintendent of a local school district because I love studying the state laws surrounding education, budgeting, and analyzing data to help students reach their fullest potential.” No matter what the future may bring for Destiny, she will be the best she can be because she is determined to succeed!  TCL

Granddaddy had a lot of wisdom and he passed some of that along to me. His goal for me was to become a lawyer, but my goal was to be a Principal just like him,” Destiny explains. “My future goals include obtaining a Doctorate degree, getting married and having a family in the future, and possibly serving as Superintendent of a local school district because I love studying the state laws surrounding education, budgeting, and analyzing data to help students reach their fullest potential.”

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The Geriatric Behavioral Health treatments toThe help yourBehavioral loved one achieve relief from the sufferings Geriatric Health Unit provides treatments to help your loved one achieve relief from the sufferings associated with associated with acute psychiatric and behavioral sympacute psychiatric and behavioral symptoms that include: toms that include: • Acute and chronic depressive illness  Acute and chronic depressive illness • Suicide risks  Suicide risks • Severe anxiety, stress-related problems  Severe anxiety, stress-related problems • Delusions and/or hallucinations  Delusions and/or hallucinations • Aggressive or assaultive behaviors  Aggressive or assaultive behaviors • Social withdrawal  Social withdrawal • Sudden and unexplained changes in behavior  Sudden and unexplained changes in behavior • Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia with a  Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia with a conconcurrent psychiatric problem current psychiatric problem

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We want to be more than a great bank.

We want to be a great neighbor.

At The Claxton Bank, greatness involves more than making loans and cashing checks. That’s why many of our team members are actively involved in local schools, churches, civic clubs, the Chamber of Commerce and special events like Evans County C.A.R.E.S. and the Rattlesnake & Wildlife Festival. Because at TCB, we think it's always important to return real value back to the community where we live and work.

Real People. Real Service. Real Solutions.

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Evans County's bank since 1941. the claxton bank

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the claxton bank

For Life!

Meadows Heath Adds Three New Services Meadows Health has welcomed several new programs and services to our growing network of providers and service areas.

We are particularity excited to announce the Meadows Health cardio rehabilitation program. Designed to dramatically improve the cardiovascular health of our patients this program is vital to the long term outcomes of those who suffer from heart or lung disease or have suffered from a heart attack or related cardiac event.

We are also pleased to announce the opening of town new centers: Meadows Health Immediate Care and Meadows Health Imaging. Located in Vidalia, both will offer advanced healthcare services that are affordable and convenient.

You can read more about these new programs and services – as well as other new advancements – in this issue of For Life!

Meadows Health. We’re here for you. For Life.

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Meadows Health Imaging Center For Appointments: 912.535.7100

[ STORY BY DAVID PENA | PHOTOS BY ERIC LOVE AND ROSE COLORED LENS LLC ]

A Promise of Hope

T

To look at 33-year-old Mandy Hall, you would never guess that she had to travel quite an arduous and difficult journey to become the current Director of Promise of Hope Tattnall, a facility in Tattnall County that helps women to overcome addiction, to work on improving their relationships, as well as to develop their personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“I’ve been through it all to get where I am, and I just want to pass on the love that was shown to me when I was at my lowest point in life,” she says.

Born and raised in Reidsville, Mandy’s parents divorced when she was 5 years old. “Weekends with my dad consisted of plenty of drinking and poker.

I thought that’s what all families did when they got

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Mandy Hall has traveled quite an arduous and difficult journey to become the current Director of Promise of Hope Tattnall.

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“I got drunk for the first time when I was 15 years old. I loved that it took away all of my shyness and insecurities. It wasn’t long before I became a weekend drinker. I would party on Friday and Saturday nights and then (ironically) go to church on Sunday.”

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together,” she recalls. “I will never forget sipping my daddy’s beer and thinking how gross it was while I waited for him to go in the store.”

But, Mandy’s family was not the problem. She explains, “I didn’t drink around my family; I did it behind their backs, they didn’t know I was drinking. As a matter of fact, I never saw my daddy drunk.” Predictably, Mandy’s alcohol consumption gradually increased into her teens. “I got drunk for the first time when I was 15 years old. I loved that it took away all of my shyness and insecurities. It wasn’t long before I became a weekend drinker. I would party on Friday and Saturday nights and then (ironically) go to church on Sunday.”

Things got progressively worse when Mandy began to experiment with drugs during her senior year, so much so that she was asked to leave her high school. Shortly afterwards, Mandy was arrested for the first time. “My daddy made a deal with me that if I went to Youth Challenge and graduated, he would pay off my charges. In 2005, the night of my graduation from Youth Challenge, I went to a party and began the cycle all over again. Over the next few years, I was in and out of jail and treatment.” During this period, Mandy’s family was desperately trying to save her from destroying herself.

In the summer of 2007, Mandy got the news that she was pregnant and attempted to get her head and life straight, but found it was harder than it seemed. “I continued to take prescribed narcotics throughout my pregnancy. I justified in my mind that this behavior was acceptable

“I’ve been through it all to get where I am, and I just want to pass on the love that was shown to me when I was at my lowest point in life.”

because the pills had been prescribed by a doctor,” Mandy explains. Thankfully, her son was born healthy in April 2008, weighing in at over nine pounds.

After her son was born, Mandy says she struggled daily with her addictions for the next several years. “I was arrested for the last time in December 2010. By this time, my family was fed up with me. After sitting in jail for quite a while, I went to court for a bond reduction. The District Attorney opened my file and read to the court all of my offenses. He proceeded to tell the judge that I had an addiction problem and his suggestion was for a stipulation to be attached to my bond that I enter and complete a long-term treatment.”

This was the beginning of Mandy’s journey to Promise of Hope. “I entered the program on February 25, 2011, completely without hope or guidance. Oddly enough, I was still in denial (of my addictions) because of the guilt and shame,” she recalls.

However, she met women at the facility who gave her love and encouragement when she felt unloved and unmotivated to change. “That was a turning point for me; their guidance and love opened my eyes to a new kind of life.” Mandy left Promise of Hope after six months before completing the program. “Because I was mandated by the court, I had to return to jail. I went to another facility, 24/7 House in Baxley a month later, where I completed the program in March 2012.”

Things got progressively worse when Mandy began to experiment with drugs during her senior year, so much so that she was asked to leave her high school. Shortly afterwards, Mandy was arrested for the first time. “My daddy made a deal with me that if I went to Youth Challenge and graduated, he would pay off my charges. In 2005, the night of my graduation from Youth Challenge, I went to a party and began the cycle all over again. Over the next few years, I was in and out of jail and treatment.” During this period, Mandy’s family was desperately trying to save her from destroying herself.

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During her stint at the 24/7 House, she was offered a job there. “It changed my perspective.

I thought back to the women who helped me and loved me when I didn’t know how to help myself. Now, that’s my goal – to help other women and show them there’s another way of life.” Somewhere along the way, Mandy says she felt the presence of the Lord working through her. “I felt God tugging at my heart and giving me a desire to help others. I knew I wanted to help others; I just didn’t know how.”

As luck would have it, it was around this time that 24/7 House offered Mandy a full-time position. “I spent the next four years working there and eventually started training to be an addiction counselor myself.”

Mandy’s journey to open Promise of Hope Tattnall began at the beginning of 2017 when she opened this “sister campus” in Tattnall as its Director a little over a year ago. Following the same principles and programs that founder Denise Dobbins began in Dudley, Georgia, back in 1999, Promise of Hope gives women

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struggling with addiction a second chance at life. “Our ministry was built through divine inspiration,” says Denise. “The Women’s Campus in Dudley opened its doors 20 years ago to meet the needs of addicts. We also have a component that works with the families of our residents. We now have a men’s campus in Cochran, which opened in 2011.”

Like its predecessor, Promise of Hope Tattnall is a residential facility, and its program lasts 12 months. “Although we are a separate business entity, we use the same programs as the original Promise of Hope,” explains Mandy, who is now herself a counselor. “We work together to help women overcome their addictions and rebuild their lives. We do this by looking at their history, patterns, and lifestyles, and offer them guidance and encouragement.” There is a $900 admission fee which covers the first 30 days of the program – transportation, food, counseling, room and board. After the first 30 days, the staff helps the women find employment to start

Faith is a large part of the recovery process. “We give them a ‘Recovery Bible’ when they enter our program, and we have volunteers who come and do Bible studies with the women each week. During the first nine months of their stay with us, we have a schedule/rotation to follow and we visit many churches of different denominations. After these nine months, the women are allowed to choose where they would like to go to church, but it is a requirement that they go to church somewhere as long as they live here. We allow them to find their own relationship with God,” explains Mandy.

living productive lives again. The fee is then $150 per week after that. “We also provide transportation for the women to and from work. Actually, the fees only cover less than half of the expenses at Promise of Hope Tattnall. Since we are a 501C-3 nonprofit organization, we rely on public donations, whether monetary or items donated,” she says.

Faith is a large part of the recovery process. “We give them a ‘Recovery Bible’ when they enter our program, and we have volunteers who come and do Bible studies with the women each week. During the first nine months of their stay with us, we have a schedule/rotation to follow and we visit many churches of different denominations. After these nine months, the women are allowed to choose where they would like to go to church, but it is a requirement that they go to church somewhere as long as they live here. We allow them to find their own relationship with God,” explains Mandy.

While Mandy’s facility has only been open for a little over a year, she sees the positive effects that Promise of Hope Tattnall has made to the women who have completed the 12-month program. “The whole family can be restored if these women take our program seriously and run with it. They can be mothers again and someone’s daughter again; it’s a great feeling to be part of that process. I want all women to know there is always hope. I have been totally amazed by all that God has done for this ministry, and I look forward to what’s to come.”

If you would like to make a donation or find out more information about their programs, call Promise of Hope Tattnall at (912) 654-1132.  TCL

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The Carpet & Floor Gallery Serving all of southeast Georgia!

Offering the Finest Floor Coverings with Competitive Pricing & Expert Installation

(L to R) Cami, Chance, Chase, Chad, JT, & Whitney

’s Professional Cleaning Services Company provides complete home/business cleaning & carpet cleaning including janitorial services.

Thanks to Tattnall County for over 30 years of support for our business!

912.739.2267 | 12 West Railroad Street, Claxton, GA Hometown Living At Its Best 104

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ELECTRIC & PLUMBING SUPPLY

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Meadows Advanced Wound Care Center Where there is hope for healing.

Specialized care for diabetic wounds, pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, venous & arterial ulcers, trauma wounds, vasculitis, and other complex or non-healing wounds. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy available.

Monday - Friday 8AM - 5 PM | 101 Harris Industrial Blvd., Suite E, Vidalia | 912.277.2077 | No Referral Necessary

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306 Gordon St. Glennville, GA 30427 | (800) 658-3408 | armstrongcricket.com

Watermelon Creek

BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor, Steve Miller

Sunday Services: Sunday School - 9:30 am Morning Worship - 10:30 am Adult Bible Study - 5:00 pm Kid’s Club - 5:00 pm

Wednesday Services: Wednesday Recharge - 6:30 pm Radical Teens - 6:30 pm

912.654.1271 | watermeloncreek.org | 8806 HWY 144 • Glennville, GA 30427

JOIN US @ THE CREEK Hometown Living At Its Best

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Renasant Bank is proud to be named Time Magazine’s Money.com’s Best Bank in the South. We are proud to offer our clients products and services that stand out on a national level, while also maintaining our commitment to make an impact in the communities we serve. Do you bank with the best?

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�a� you ��n looking for a dental office that is a perfect fit for your family?

Are you in search of an ofce that is family friendly, while also being compassionate to the needs of patients of all ages?

Your search is over! We specialize in smiles, while offering you the best treatment in additional services such as IV Sedation and implant placement, just to name a few. We are currently accepting new patients and would love make you SMILE!

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244 South Main Street | Reidsville, Georgia 912.557.6307 | www.reidsvillefamilydentistry.com

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Rialto

Residential, Commercial and Industrial Roofs | 37 Years of Experience | Highest quality roofs in Southeast Georgia

Ray’s Roofing, Inc. C e l l 9 1 2 2 3 7 . 1 0 3 4 | O f f i c e 9 1 2 . 6 5 4 . 2 6 8 9 | G l e n n v i l l e , G A | r ay s r o o f i n g . n e t

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Meadows Advanced Wound Care Center Funeral Home

Where there is hope for healing.

Obituary Line: Glennville - 654.9409

Specialized care for diabetic wounds, pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, venous & arterial ulcers, trauma wounds, vasculitis, and other complex or non-healing wounds. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy available.

206 North Veterans Blvd. | Glennville, Georgia 30427 | 912-654-2060

Monday - Friday 8AM - 5 PM | 101 Harris Industrial Blvd., Suite E, Vidalia | 912.277.2077 | No Referral Necessary

TRIANGLE-J, INC. along with TRIANGLE-J BROKERAGE is a full range transportation service company. We utilize a wide range of trucks & trailer types to haul a variety of products such as: temperature sensitive products, dry goods, building & construction products, grain & feed products, oversized & over-length loads. Both company & brokered trucks travel in all 48 states but the majority of our customers are in the Southeast.

Call Triangle-J, Inc. for any of your transportation needs or visit us at www.trianglejinc.com

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Caughey Hearn, Agent 7573 US HWY 280 | Claxton, GA 30417 | 912-739-4545

Alejandro’s

Authentic Mexican Restaurant

1205 S. VETERANS BLVD | GLENNVILLE, GA | (912) 654-0511 | @ALEJANDROSAUTHENTIC.MEXRESTUARANT Hometown Living At Its Best

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a hobby

turned into more

STORY BY Gail Dixon | PHOTOS BY Gail Dixon, Melanie McCullough, and Provided by Jim Rich

Jim Rich’s hobby of beekeeping has turned into a business selling honey using the Rich Apiaries and Honey Farm label.

J

Jim Rich grew up on a mixed row crop/livestock farm between Collins and Cobbtown, Georgia, and their main cash crop was tobacco. I tell everyone that “tobacco raised me because of the money it provided, and the crop educated me since it taught me I did not want to do that for a living,” Jim says to me as he laughs. “Of course, the apple still didn’t fall far from the tree because I still wanted a career in agriculture, but I had no clue as to which part. I liked growing crops and eventually chose plant pathology because I knew less about that subject.”

Jim attended the University of Georgia where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy (1972) and a Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology/Nematology (1973). After UGA, he attended the University of California and received a

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Doctor of Philosophy degree in Plant Pathology/ Nematology (1976). (Again, Jim laughs as he tells me that his doctorate degree is signed by Governor Jerry Brown, who has just retired again.) Finished with his college education, Jim went to work at the University of Florida as an Assistant Professor from 1976-1981, Associate Professor from 1981-1985, and Professor from 1985 until his retirement in 2010.

During his 35-year career, Jim was the Chairman or a committee member for 30+ PhD and Masters graduate students and taught Advanced Nematology and Special Topics in Nematology. His administrative activities include: UF IFAS Agricultural Research Center, Live Oak, Center Director; UF IFAS Statewide Small

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“Every place is unique. I most like the tropics and the underdeveloped countries in general, and countries in Central and South America in particular. I love waking up and seeing coconut or banana trees. Breakfast includes lots of fruit.

Mostly, I do not like cold weather and wearing shorts in January is so nice.”

Farms Coordinator; and UF IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center, Associate Director.

Jim continued teaching but his main work included research and extension. He served as Extension Specialist for nematode problems on agronomic crops in Florida, and presented over 150 educational programs to Florida growers and industry. Also, from his research program, he published over 400 scientific and technical articles on nematode disease management in agronomic and vegetable crops.

Recognized with over 40 awards during his career, Jim received a special Honorary Member Award from the Organization of Nematologists of Tropical America (ONTA).

This award was for serving as President of the ONTA and also establishing and maintaining the ONTA Foundation, which is still going on, and the ONTA website, in which Jim maintained for about 15 years. In addition, he was named to Who’s Who in American Men and Women of Science and given the Society of Nematologist award for Outstanding Contributions to American Agriculture. He was a scientific journal editor-in-chief, as well as Associate Editor and board member on a number of science journals.

Jim enjoyed his job and says, “One of the fantastic parts of the job was the travel, including giving lectures in places like China, Russia and South Africa, and the travel always had some kind of adventure while he was away!” His international experiences include presenting lectures, seminars, and short courses on plant production topics in over 30 countries. He was also the project leader and consultant on peanut and vegetable production projects in St. Kitts, Antigua-Barbuda, Haiti, and Guyana through USAID and the Florida Volunteer Corps.

One of Jim’s favorite places to travel was Cuba, where he went four times, which was a lot considering travel to Cuba was restricted in many cases. He says, “There was and is a lot of agricultural potential in Cuba, and crop pest problems

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During his 35-year career, Jim was the Chairman or a committee member for 30+ PhD and Masters graduate students and taught Advanced Nematology and Special Topics in Nematology.

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Recognized with over 40 awards during his career, Jim received a special Honorary Member Award from the Organization of Nematologists of Tropical America (ONTA).

This award was for serving as President of the ONTA and also establishing and maintaining the ONTA Foundation.

there are very similar to those in Florida. I was invited several times to give talks at international scientific meetings.�

Another favorite place was Guyana, South America, which borders Brazil. Here, Jim was project leader working with the natives, South American Indians (Amerindians), way back in the jungle growing peanuts. The Amerindians needed to learn how to produce and store the peanuts because the road system was closed three to four months out of the year, and they had to have something to store and then sell when the roads were open. There were no phones, no tractors, no electricity, and no gas stations, which meant they had to carry drums of gas in for their vehicles for the 10-hour jungle drive. He recalls, “One day, Prince Charles flies in to visit with Amerindian leaders and dedicate a nearby jungle preserve.

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One of the fantastic parts of the job was the travel, including giving lectures in places like China, Russia and South Africa, and the travel always had some kind of adventure.

Never would I have thought I would have seen Prince Charles in such a setting. One of the farmers was his driver so we called him the Prince’s Driver from then on.”

International travel is still one of Jim’s hobbies, and he has visited over 70 countries so far. He says, “Every place is unique. I most like the tropics and the underdeveloped countries in general, and countries in Central and South America in particular. I love waking up and seeing coconut or banana trees. Breakfast includes lots of fruit.

Mostly, I do not like cold weather and wearing shorts in January is so nice.”

Jim’s dad was Skid Rich, who was raised about a mile from where Jim lives. Jim’s mom, Carolyn Outen Rich, grew up in the Hillview Community.

In 2010, Jim retired and moved back to be with his mom. He renovated the old tobacco pack house in order to be close to her. “I made some great memories with Mom for six years before she passed away at almost 97 years old. We would go out to

lunch every day and knew all the restaurants within 40 miles,” he laughs. “I was always hoping to come back to Cobbtown, but I came back sooner than planned because of Mom.” Jim recalls thinking, “When I retire, I’m gonna get me a couple of beehives for a hobby.

(Years before, I had a good friend, a commercial beekeeper, and I learned a lot from him.). So I retired and got two beehives and succeeded in losing them the first year. That really aggravated me! The next year, I got two more. Over the next eight years, I had almost 400 beehives, but I’m back down to 100 now. My bee business started as a hobby that went out of control!” He says, “I would recommend beekeeping for a hobby. It’s relaxing to watch what the bees do and how they are organized, and gosh, if only people had their work ethic!” Bees are used by people that have PTSD too because they will be mesmerized watching the bees and focus only on them. It’s also rewarding; if you ever make honey one time, you’re hooked for life!

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Bees are also good for the environment because they help with pollination.”

“I make and sell honey using the Rich Apiaries and Honey Farm label. I also have a special label for honey made near my hometown – Cobbtown Honey.” He laughs, “This may be the only Cobbtown Honey on the planet.” “I also have starter kits for new beekeepers. I move some of my beehives to local farms to help with pollination. This year, my bees will help pollinate blueberries and watermelons. One real plus about beekeeping is that I get to meet the most helpful and nicest people that are involved with bees,” says Jim. Jim still travels to various places including the Philippines, Vietnam, Kenya, Egypt, etc. but his travel is now done for pleasure rather than work.

A lot of his travel is done alone, but sometimes his cousin will go. “The most interesting part of my travel is that I get to meet new people, both fellow tourists and locals.” When asked if traveling was dangerous, Jim replied, “99 percent of the people are like us. They are going to work and taking care of their families and are not interested in taking advantage or harming people.”

Jim says he has enjoyed being back in Tattnall County, and it was such a pleasure to come back and renew old friendships, make new ones, and to know that really good and caring people are still in this part of the world. As for future plans, he hopes to keep working with his bees and travel. His biggest “bucket list” plan is to travel the TransSiberian Railway, which runs from Moscow to Beijing by way of Mongolia.

The day I went to interview Jim, as I was getting out of my Jeep, Jim introduced himself and his cat, Oreo. He said, “We are two bachelors living together!” Jim has no children, but enjoys his time at the old home-place with Oreo and the bees. If you ever have a chance to sit down with Jim, ask him about some of his travels and adventures. He has some fascinating stories to share!

For more information about Jim’s 100% USA Pure Honey, Pollination Services, and/or Honey Bee Sales, contact Jim Rich at (912) 426-9099 (cell).  TCL 118

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“I would recommend beekeeping for a hobby.

It’s relaxing to watch what the bees do and how they are organized, and gosh, if only people had their work ethic!”

-Jim Rich

Honey is the only insect-created food with therapeutic, medicinal, nutritional and cosmetic value.

Bees are used by people that have PTSD too because they will be mesmerized watching the bees and focus only on them. It’s also rewarding; if you ever make honey one time, you’re hooked for life!

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PINEWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

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McCurdy’sOn Main

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Watermelon Creek

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BY MARSHA CUNNINGHAM BRADLEY | PHOTOS BY ERIC LOVE 126

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woman

a Proverbs 31

Faye Balkcom’s Family believes she is the epitome of the Proverbs 31 woman.

F

Faye Balkcom Way is a clear example of strong genetics at its best. When you see “Ms. Faye” with her two grown daughters, Roxanne Balkcom Durrence and Charla Balkcom Nail, you are struck by the physical beauty of these women. When you get to know them, you are touched by the pure goodness that is so obvious in all of them. Then, there is the only son, well known as the “golden child”. Robert Balkcom adds humor into this family formula of good looks and strong character.

One of Faye’s greatest joys is seeing the love and respect that her children have for each other. She admits that they don’t always agree, but when one of them needs something, they are all there.

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God is central in the lives of their family and all her children are members of the Reidsville United Methodist Church. They feel that their lives were significantly touched by their Walk to Emmaus, a three-day retreat of spiritual renewal and formation held at the Tattnall County Campground. Roxanne has been on mission trips to Mexico and Uganda; Charla has served as Youth Leader for the church.

God is central in the lives of their family and all her children are members of the Reidsville United Methodist Church. They feel that their lives were significantly touched by their Walk to Emmaus, a three-day retreat of spiritual renewal and formation held at the Tattnall County Campground. Roxanne has been on mission trips to Mexico and Uganda; Charla has served as Youth Leader for the church.

Like many others, Faye believes that her family has been blessed by living in Tattnall County.

She moved to Tattnall County in 1940 when she was six months old so that her father, George Blount, could open Blount’s Department Store.

The store remained open for 40 years. Growing up in Reidsville, Faye met Charles Balkcom; after they both graduated from Reidsville High School they attended the University of Georgia. They were married while attending UGA and then returned home to Reidsville to begin their family life. Faye began teaching at Reidsville Elementary School and, after 16 years of teaching in elementary schools, she began work as a teacher at Claxton RYDC. She retired from there after 14 years experience. Other than a career move for Charles of six years in Mt. Vernon and one year in Alto, the Balkcoms spent their lives in Tattnall County. Faye now lives a half mile from where she grew up. The children were able to grow up with grandparents on the Blount and Balkcom sides. Living in a small town contributed to the strong bond that their family established. Most weekends were spent with family and friends, often at Tippins Lake or St. Simons Island. Faye and Charles were able to

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raise their children with others who shared their values of honesty, loyalty, strong character, respect for authority, and hard work.

Roxanne Balkcom Durrence is the oldest child and is the consummate “professional woman”.

But she also balances her career with family, church, and community responsibilities. (And to make sure she is never labeled predictable, she occasionally shocks her family with a touch of blue under that beautiful blond hair.) Roxanne’s college degree in accounting opened doors for her as she worked in banking, at Kennedy Network Services, and Canoochee EMC. But her sharp mind and technology skills allowed her to advance quickly. She currently is an ERP Analyst for Rotary Corporation and is presently serving as Project Manager over converting the Phoenix, Arizona division to Rotary’s manufacturing software. She is married to Brent Durrence, and they have raised two children, Dylan and Destiny Durrence. Dylan married Carley Moore in 2015

and they gave Faye her first great-grandchild, Jed, in 2018. Destiny is engaged to Russ Harrell and they plan to be married in October 2019.

Charla was the second child and everyone thought she was going to be a boy. The name that was chosen for this baby was Charles Robert Balkcom, Jr. Instead of a boy, another precious girl was born, and the name evolved to Charla Kay. Charla is married to Dewey Nail and they have two daughters, Raegan and Rachel. With a college degree in sociology, Charla began her career at the local DFACS office. She then moved to Southeastern Technical College. She retired as Executive Director of Institutional Advancement in 2017. She is now working on her newest career as case manager/social worker at Meadows Regional Medical Center. Her compassion and tender heart, coupled with broad shoulders to bear the problems of others, makes her a great fit for her work at Meadows.

Twenty-two months after Charla was born,

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As the children describe a typical day growing up in the Balkcom house, visions of Leave it to Beaver or Father Knows Best come to mind. Faye was always up early and prepared a hot breakfast for the family before everyone left for school and work and again prepared dinner every evening.

The family ate together every morning and most evenings. The house was always spotless and the clothes cleaned and ironed. On Saturdays, the family ate lunch at “Grandma Lucy’s” and, as both Faye’s and Charles’ parents became elderly and sick, Faye was there to take care of them.

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Robert Paul Balkcom, entered the family. Robert followed in his father’s footsteps in law enforcement. Growing up in the prison homes he had a close-up view of the importance of law enforcement. He had a desire to become a State Trooper from a very early age and that is exactly what he did. When Robert was a child, Charles would take him to gas up the Warden’s car and visit with the Troopers. The Troopers always welcomed Robert and they let him play in their cars.

He was hooked early on from his visits and he did later make this dream a reality. His choice was a good one and he continues to enjoy his work after 25 years. He is Assistant Troop Commander for Georgia State Patrol - Troop 1; his rank is First Lieutenant. He enjoys the bond and camaraderie among Troopers and is seen as a role model for the younger ones. Robert is married to Nicole Gibbs Balkcom and they have two sons, Bradley and Nicholas.

As the children describe a typical day growing up in the Balkcom house, visions of Leave it to Beaver or Father Knows Best come to mind. Faye was always up early and prepared a hot breakfast for the family before everyone left for school and work and again prepared dinner every evening. The family ate together every morning and most evenings. The house was always spotless and the clothes

“I remember getting in trouble and my mama made me stand under the ‘tree’ at recess while all the other kids played and had a grand old time.”

-Robert Balkcom

cleaned and ironed. On Saturdays, the family ate lunch at “Grandma Lucy’s” and, as both Faye’s and Charles’ parents became elderly and sick, Faye was there to take care of them. The family was always involved in church and school activities with the children. To make the family history more interesting than the 50’s TV shows, this family carved this warm, supportive environment at the prison reservation. There was a community pool, baseball field, and ponds for fishing.

Children could play, ride bicycles, visit in each other’s homes until dark and never lock their doors.

As the children will tell you, growing up with a warden and a school teacher as parents, there was definitely discipline in their home. When Robert was in second grade, Faye was his teacher. He thought he had it made and that he could get away with anything.

As he tells the story, “I remember getting in trouble and my mama made me stand under the ‘tree’ at recess while all the other kids played and had a grand old time.” He learned a lesson…during school hours everyone was treated equally and he later realized that this was one of many life lessons that he learned.

He now says that one of the most important lessons that his mama taught all of the children was that there was only one race in the world...the Human race.

While the discipline in their home was established to help the children develop a good foundation of what life is about, they always knew that love was at the center of the family. Charla says, “Mama was able to find a balance between discipline and allowing us the freedom to make our own mistakes.”

Charles died in 2005 and the family stood together as they grieved their loss. Faye remembers the strength and courage that her children gave her through his illness and death. All of the children share how strong and brave their mother was for Charles and for them during this time. Charla says, “Mama was

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the greatest example of what a wife’s love, commitment, and devotion should be to her husband.” They still share family times with Charles’ sister and her family.

After Charles’ death, Faye had to create a “new normal” for herself and her family. She became even more active in the community and church and spent a lot of time helping with her beloved grandchildren. She also survived, with a lot of love and support from her family, a two-year battle with cancer. When she was introduced to Rabun Way, a man who had also lost his spouse, Faye realized that God had sent her a second opportunity for happiness and they were married in 2010, with the blessings of both families. Rabun loved his two girls and their families with the same passion that Faye had for hers. She says that through this union she gained two more daughters and he gained two more daughters and a son. Between them they had 10 grandchildren. Rabun’s oldest daughter, Taryn Washinger, and her husband, Toby, have two children, Anna and Avery. Anna is married to Ben Perkins and they recently made Faye a greatgrandmother for the second time with the birth of their son, Samuel Rabun. Rabun’s other daughter, Gina, and her husband, Bill Kennedy, have two sons, Luke and Landon. Luke and his wife, Sarah, recently announced that they are expecting their first child in January 2020.

Faye and Rabun had five years together that allowed for a merging of the two families and they still share times together. Rabun’s illness and death was painful, but again the family stood by each other for strength and support.

Robert often reminds his mama (even on social

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media for everyone to see) of her age. But his message is always that she doesn’t look her age and has the stamina of an 18-year-old. After a burglary, the children installed security cameras on her house so that they could keep an eye on her through their smart phones.

They soon had to turn off the alert feature because the camera would alert them anytime that she walked in or out of the front or side doors. “She never sits still and we are not even sure if she sleeps,” Robert said laughingly.

He added, “I just hope when I am her age that I can be half as active as she is and be the example for others to follow like her.” When you see her yard looking like a car lot, you know that Faye has “all her family” with her to celebrate someone’s birthday or other occasion. When it is “your birthday”, you get to choose the type of cake for the meal. Caramel, chocolate, blueberry, lemon and any other cake can be yours for the asking!

Roxanne speaks for all the family when she says, “Mama is strong, brave and loving. We are forever grateful that God gave her to us. She is the epitome of the Proverbs 31 woman.”

Her children will arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.

Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

(Proverbs 31)  TCL

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Your Vision.

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Our eye specialists are dedicated to providing the quality of medical care you expect, using state-of-the-art-technology and advanced medical techniques.

From the latest advances in cataract care and glaucoma management, to treatment for diabetic eye disease and comprehensive eye exams, call Georgia Eye Institute.

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Claxton Oil Company P R O PA N E S P E C I A L I S T S S I N C E 1 9 6 2

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Vidalia

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Lifetime of education Retired teacher Charlotte King reflects on spending more than 50 years as an educator.

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Stor y by Gai l Dixon | Photos prov i d e d by C harlotte’s Fami ly, Gai l D i xon & Er i c L ove

W

When I first met Charlotte King, in the spring of 1993, I thought she was a very “gruff” person who spoke what she thought.

I was glad that she would be on the 800 Hall and I would be on the 200 Hall at Tattnall County High School. As the years went by, I realized Charlotte was one of the best teachers at the school. Her first priority was her students, but she also cared about her peers – and we became the best of friends.

Charlotte, now a retired teacher, has

more than 50 years of experience. With a B.S. in Education, a M.Ed. in Junior High, and an Ed.S. Certificate in Middle Grades and Secondary Education with a major in English, she began her teaching career in 1962 in Liberty County teaching third grade for three months – finishing out the year for a teacher on maternity leave. The 1962-63 school term was spent teaching in Long County and was the year that Charlotte’s oldest daughter, Sara, was born.

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An encourager, Charlotte was like a second mother to many students, and even had her own children in the classroom.

For the next three years, she taught eighth grade English in Jesup. While teaching in Jesup, the schools integrated and many were concerned about what might happen. Charlotte said, “I just taught the kid, no matter the color.” At the end of those three years, Charlotte heard Glennville High School needed a seventh grade English teacher. She applied for the job, and in 1966 began teaching there.

That year, the seventh and eighth grades were moved to Seckinger Elementary School, which is now Glennville Elementary School.

Charlotte then went back to Glennville High School to teach English; staying there until the high schools consolidated in 1993. She continued her teaching career at Tattnall County High School and retired in 2013.

When asked about the difference in teaching when she began and when she retired, Charlotte replied, “I was a much better teacher when I retired. When I began my teaching career, we had very few resources; the only resource I had was the textbook. Eventually, the mimeograph machines, aka the purple elephants, appeared and workbooks.

Technology has come a long way in my years of teaching.”

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As the years passed and the state got more involved in education, it was difficult for teachers to get everything that was expected of them done in a timely manner. “I loved teaching when I could teach and didn’t have to worry about the paperwork, but that paperwork became more involved and teaching was not as much fun,” she said.

Charlotte loved teaching American Literature and said she was most comfortable teaching juniors. “I loved taking the students back to the early years and moving forward as far as I could in chronological order. Also, I enjoyed teaching analogies and antonyms on the screen,” Charlotte said.

“I never thought I was a good teacher, but I think they loved me.”

Any of Charlotte’s students will tell you that they had to work hard in her class, but they learned. Not only did they learn about literature and grammar, but they learned social skills and, more importantly, they learned that “mean old Mrs. King” really did love and care about them.

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I have been there and experienced the frustration of walking aimlessly through the gym floor searching for a regimen that would yield results. Eventually it can become overwhelming and then we just give it up. But let me encourage you not to give in so easily! I have experienced that by changing things up, I can stay motivated and gain the momentum to keep going.

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One thing the students really appreciated about Charlotte was the fact that she would always be out in the hallways before school, between classes and sometimes at lunch.

During these times, she would tell students how proud she was of them and their extracurricular activities. Charlotte would pat them on the shoulder and tell them what a good job they had done.

An encourager, Charlotte was like a second mother to many students, and even had her own children in the classroom. “I taught all three of them and it was hard for me. I was either favoring them or being too hard on them,” Charlotte said. She taught Sara in the sixth and eighth grades and Jane and Chris in the eighth grade. When two of her grandchildren, Luke and Jessica, were in high school, she said, “I was there when they needed me, but I didn’t teach them.”

Although Charlotte thought she was either favoring or being too hard on her children, Jane had a different opinion.

“We were just another student in Mama’s classroom. She didn’t treat us special; she was tough, but she was always fair. We blended into the class and there was no preferential treatment,” Jane said. “She was the best English teacher I ever had and I wish there were more like her in the classrooms today. She, like all of the older teachers, was a force to be reckoned with.”

Throughout her 50-plus years of teaching, Charlotte was named Teacher of the Year at GMS, STAR Teacher at TCHS, Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers several times, and was the Yearbook Advisor at GMS, GHS and TCHS. “Charlotte King is the epitome of an outstanding educator,” said Glenn Stewart, principal at TCHS. “While having a deep knowledge of the English curriculum, and a sense of wit like no other, I feel what sets her apart from other teachers is the love she had for all students.”

In addition to helping her students with academics, Charlotte played a role in the extracurricular activities department, too. When she worked at GHS and TCHS, she kept the scoreboard for softball and baseball. “I don’t know why, I just loved softball and baseball,” said Charlotte. “I never minded keeping the gate, but I’d rather watch the games.”

She was a big sports fan, but she also enjoyed doing other things. At TCHS, she was on the Hospitality Committee for several years, enjoyed working with Young Authors and being a Senior Project Judge. All in all, she was the students’ No. 1 supporter and friend.

Tammy Harvey, an English teacher at TCHS, said, “As a person who didn’t have a close relationship with a grandmother while growing up, I found myself envying Mrs. King’s students.

She made her students feel special. She followed their sports, she pushed them when they needed pushing, and no matter what, she loved them. As her colleague, I knew part of that love because she would encourage and push me as well. She would only accept best efforts from those she loved, but even if efforts were not the best, there were no questions about her love – no doubt, no hesitation.

Mrs. King infused love into her students, her colleagues and her school. Although retired, Mrs. King still makes appearances and reminds us we are loved.”

Retired since 2013, Charlotte never thought she would like life outside the classroom, but she does. During her first two years of retirement, she volunteered to help in the TCHS library a few hours each week. Now, she reads at least two books a week, belongs to a book club and enjoys gardening.

As of June 19, Charlotte and Ken King have been married for 58 years. Ken still works at King’s Furniture Store in Glennville. Their three children are grown and have families of their own. Their son, Chris, is the owner of King’s Pump Service in Glennville and has a dog, Sam. Their daughter Sara is married to Dr. John Pilger, an instructor at Agnes Scott College in Atlanta, and has three boys. Eric is married to Karalee and has two boys, Jacob and Oliver; Brendan is married to Stephanie; and Nick.

Their daughter Jane, an insurance agent in Glennville, is married to Tyrone Joyner, who is retired from Fort Stewart and now builds cabinets.

Jane and Tyrone have two children. Son Luke is married to Taylor and they have one daughter, Charli Grace. Daughter Jessica is married to Ryne.  TCL

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Index of Advertisers

Ace Hardware ………………...............................................……….. 151 Alejandro’s Authentic Mexican Restaurant ................…………….. 111 Altamaha Pest Control ..................................……………………….. 150 Amour Travel ……….................................................……………….. 149 Anytime Fitness …..................................…………………….............. 58 Armstrong’s Cricket Farm ………………….............................…….. 107 Baxters Body Shop ………….........................................…………….. 76 Better Living Therapy & Fitness ………….....................…………….. 135 Bland’s Air Conditioning ……...............................………..………….. 78 Bobcat’s Diner ………..............................................……………….. 150 Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home ……..................………………….. 110 Brewton-Parker College ………………..................................……….. 73 Brian Threlkend & Assoc. …………..................................…………….. 1 Bulloch Pediatrics Group …………..............................…………….. 151 Bumper to Bumper ……….......................................……………….. 122 Busy Little Beavers Christian Preschool …………….............……….. 78 C & R Land Development ……………................................………….. 75 Cadence Bank ………………................................................……….. 54 Canoochee EMC ……...........................................………………….. 135 Central Pharmacy ………….........................................…………….. 137 City of Cobbtown ………………..........................................……….. 150 City of Collins ……................................................………………….. 148 City of Glennville …….............................................………………….. 61 City of Reidsville …................................................…………………….. 5 Claxton Oil Company ……………....................................………….. 136 CleanWay The Carpet & Floor Gallery …...........…………………….. 104 Coley Electric & Plumbing Supply - Jesup ……...........…………….. 106 Coley Electric & Plumbing Supply - Lyons ……………............…….. 124 Collins Mobile Homes ……….......................................……………….. 7 Community Hospice ………………..................................……….. 24-25 Dairy Queen …………….........................................…………............. 57 Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library …………………............…….. 42-43 Dubberly & McGovern Attorneys at Law …...........………………….. 125 Duramatic Products …………........................................…………….. 74 Durrence Layne ……………….......................……….. Inside Back Cover Evans Memorial Surgical Associates ………..............……………….. 72 Evans Memorial Windows of Hope ……………………..................….. 93 Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center ……..............……….. 136 Georgia Eye Institute …....................................…………………….. 134 Georgia Southern University ………………………................ Back Cover Gilbert Jones & Associates ……………...........................………….. 148 Glennville Auto Parts …………....................................…………….. 122 Glennville Bank | GB Bank Group ……….....................……………….. 9 Glennville Chamber of Commerce ….............…………………….. 22-23 Glennville Sweet Onion Festival …………….................………….. 40-41 Graceland Portable Buildings ………….......................…………….. 138 Graham’s Floor Covering ……...............................…...…………….. 146 iDoctor 912 ……………..................................................………….. 150 Jincy’s Southern Exchange ……………............................………….. 137 KE Butler & Company Jewelers …………….......................………….. 92 Kennedy Funeral Homes ……………...............................………….. 120 Kennedy Network Services, Inc. …......................…………………….. 60 Kicklighter Realty, Inc ………………....................................……….. 147 King’s Pump & Technical Service, Inc. .............…………………….. 146 Lasseter Tractor Company ………............................……………….. 134

Logic4Design ……………...............................................………….. 151 Lone Pine Charolais ………….....................................…………….. 105 Marco’s Pizza …...……........................................……………............ 56 McCurdy’s on Main …………….......................................………….. 121 Meadows Advanced Wound Care Center ………………….............. 106 Meadows Regional Medical Center ……................………………….. 97 Metter Ford ……………..................................................………….. 138 Mi Plaza Authentic Mexican Cuisine ………………………............... 133 Mobley’s Well & Pump Service, Inc. ……….............……………….. 148 Mossy Pond Retrievers ………...................................……………….. 95 MW Collins Inc ……………………................................................….. 55 OneWorld Solar …..............................................…………………….. 90 Paul Anderson Youth Home …..........................…………………….. 146 Pinewood Christian Academy …….......................………………….. 120 Randy’s Wrecker & Service Center …………………...............…….. 149 Ray’s Roofing, Inc. …........................................…………………….. 109 Reidsville Family Dentistry …............................…………………….. 108 Reidsville Pharmacy ……………….....................................……….. 147 Reidsville Veterinary Clinic …...........................…………………….. 149 Renasant Bank ….............................................…………………….. 108 Rialto ………………............................................................……….. 109 Rich Apiaries and Honey Farm ……......................………………….. 148 Rocky Creek Lodge …………...................................…………….. 26-27 Rotary Club of Glennville …………………...........................…….. 42-43 Rotary Corporation ……….........................................……………….. 74 Rusty Pig BBQ …………...........................................…………….. 20-21 Senator Jack Hill ………...........................................……………….. 147 Shuman Produce ………….........................................…………….. 125 South Georgia Bank ……….....................................……………….. 123 Southern Flair Catering ………….................................…………….. 149 Southern Medical Group …..............................…………………….. 139 Spa on First ……....................................................………………….. 94 State Farm - Caughey Hearn, Agent …………………..............…….. 111 Strickland’s Pharmacy …………....................................…………….. 77 Tattnall County Board of Commissioners ……...….. Inside Front Cover Tattnall Insurance ….........................................…………………….. 122 Terrell Brothers, Inc …......................................…………………….. 133 The Barn at Collins Family Farm ………………....................……….. 2-3 The Claxton Bank ……............................................………………….. 96 The Drug Store …................................................…………………….. 59 The Farmhouse Restaurant ………………..........................……….. 123 The Gathering Place of Lyons LLC ….................…………………….. 105 The Georgia Institute for Plastic Surgery ……….............………….. 124 The Greater Tattnall Chamber of Commerce ….............……….. 44-45 The Kountry Kafe …..........................................…………………….. 147 The Supply Company ………………....................................……….. 121 The Therapy Tree ………….............................................…………….. 91 Tots to Teens Medical Center ……………..........................………….. 38 Triangle-J, Inc. ……………...............................................………….. 110 Triton Fire & Security …….......................................………………….. 79 Vidalia Golf Carts …………….........................................………….. 138 Vidalia Pediatric Clinic …....................................…………………….. 39 Watermelon Creek Baptist Church …………………...............…….. 107 Willis Septic Systems & Mobile Home Movers Inc. ……………….. 139 Wreaths Across America ……………...............................………….. 151

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

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2019 Issue

$1 BILLION ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT 26,000 EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS 141 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS 3 CAMPUSES

A Promise of Hope

Mandy Hall has traveled quite a journey to become the current Director of Promise of Hope Tattnall.

ONE UNIVERSITY

Fresh and Local No matter what the future may bring for Destiny, she will be the best she can be because she is determined to succeed.

STATESBORO • SAVANNAH • HINESVILLE • ONLINE

Jessica Kennedy has set out to make Glennville a fresh food hub.

Striking the Right Cord

Stephen DeLoach’s career in the music business has taken off performing with big names.

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