Valdosta Scene, January 2014 by Valdosta Scene

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The Trains of Europe

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contents ➸ JANUARY 2014 12 New Year, New You YMCA’s Team Lean

16 New Year, New You Shape Designers Medical Weight Loss Clinic

20 History A Quiet Hero in the Family Tree

30 Dining Kennedy’s Family Steak House in Lake Park

44 Travel The Trains of Europe with David & Kay Scott

26 Health & Beauty Christy Howell explains Platelet Rich Plasma treatment

38 Arts & Entertainment List of upcoming events in January

42 Relationship Advice Mark Webb’s tips for being a better friend

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

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JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

from the editor... VALDOSTASCENE

appy New Year!

It’s difficult to believe that 2014 is already here, as the years just keep flying by. This month marks my 13th anniversary with the Times, which is also difficult to believe, but time passes quickly when you’re always on the go. I’m looking forward to a good year and hope the same for everyone! Starting off the New Year, many readers will be making resolutions to try and keep this year. Given that the top resolutions generally deal with weight loss, health and fitness, we decided to dedicate this issue to those who are working towards creating a “New You in the New Year.” Inspiration from those who have been there and succeeded, the previous winners of the YMCA-SGMC Team Lean competition, plus a focus on ways to get your diet started. The Scene also includes personal advice for relationships and beauty, and a feature on a family who is following their dream of owning a steak house. You’ll find an fascinating account of the Great Chicago Fire and a tie to a local resident, as well as a delightful travel feature from our friends, the Scotts, with tips for getting around Europe. Read and enjoy!

Established 2005 Volume X • No. 1 The ValdostaScene magazine is published monthly at 201 N. Troup St., Valdosta, GA 31601 Published by the South Georgia Media Group

PUBLISHER Jeff Masters EDITOR Kay Harris ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dean Poling CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristin Finney Adam Floyd Dean Poling Stuart Taylor COLUMNISTS Christy Howell Mark Webb CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brandon Powers Stuart Taylor LAYOUT Derek Schaper

Kay Harris Editor

on the cover: YMCA Team Lean (seated left to right) Rebecca Shulte and Brenda Walker. (Standing left to right) Melinda Mieszala, Chad Fernandez, Chuck Marshburn & Eddy West. photograph by BRANDON POWERS

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mae Stokes

Subscription Rates: Annual subscription (U.S. mail) $24 Send your check to: ValdostaScene Subscriptions 201 N. Troup St. Valdosta, GA 31601 www.ValdostaScene.com Newsstand $3.50 For information on submitting articles or advertising in the Scene call (229) 244-1880

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N EW Y E A R , NEW YOU

Team Lean Valdosta/Lake Park YMCA’s

by ADAM FLOYD

fter the large meals and sweet treats of the holiday season, it is no surprise that getting in shape and losing weight is on the minds of almost everyone as they think of their new year’s resolutions. To make sticking to those resolutions a little easier and perhaps more fun, the Valdosta/Lake Park YMCA has teamed up with South Georgia Medical Center again this year for Team Lean 2014. Team Lean is a 10-week weight loss competition that kicks off Saturday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Think “Biggest Loser” without the video cameras and the entire country watching you weigh-in. The purpose of the event is to challenge people in the community to take charge of their lifestyles and work towards a healthier body while having the support to help see them through the change. Megan Schunhoff at SGMC calls it “growing healthy together.” “The event has been around for five years, and this is SGMC’s fourth year sponsoring,” said Schunhoff, “We feel that getting the community involved will help the community’s overall wellness.” SGMC has physicians and staff who will be helping throughout the competition, teaching classes and monitoring progress. To qualify for prizes at the end of the competition, participants must attend one health and one nutrition class. The idea behind the mandatory classes is to help people make better decisions about their health and diet by teaching them how. “We wanted the community as a whole to do a healthy weight loss competition that would last throughout the year,” said Shelly Toth YMCA fitness director, “and the best way to do that is to educate them along the way.”

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

(seated left to right) Rebecca Shulte and Brenda Walker. (Standing left to right) Melinda Mieszala, Chad Fernandez, Chuck Marshburn & Eddy West.

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

“

We are doing a healthy weight loss competition, but we are also here to educate participants on how to change their lives.

“

Toth looks at the competition as more than a way to lose weight. She sees it as a lifestyle change. “Just changing small things in your lifestyle can make a difference: skipping bread at dinner, eating Greek yogurt and fruit, taking the stairs instead of walking,” said Toth, “We are doing a healthy weight loss competition, but we are also here to educate participants on how to change their lives.” The Team Lean competition requires a $50 registration fee. You don’t have to be a YMCA member to enter, but you will receive a 10 day pass with your registration. Participants who are already members can give those passes to others to encourage them to exercise along with them. Weigh-ins are every Thursday during the competition. You can come in at any time during the day, and unlike “Biggest Loser,” the weigh-ins are discreet and no one has access to the information other than the trainers and Toth. During the registration process, you will have the opportunity to sign up for an appointment with a trainer. The YMCA trainers are competing with each other this year and are highly-motivated to see success for their clients.

left, top: Team Lean isn’t just for teams. Rebecca Schulte and Melinda Mieszala each competed individually in 2012 and 2013 respectively. left, middle:Chad Fernandez, Chuck Marshburn and Eddy West, representing South Georgia Medical Center Team, won the Team Lean Competition in 2012. left, bottom: Brenda Walker was the winner of the 2011 Team Lean Competition.

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The YMCA and SGMC really want the competition to be a community-wide event, so they have appealed to the closest thing to a universal interest that exists in Lowndes County: football. “This year when you sign up, you can pick which team you would like to represent: Valdosta High or Lowndes High,” said Toth, “We’ll have t-shirts and post weekly results, and at the end of the competition, the winning school will get a trophy.” Toth hopes that 500 people will participate this year, and that may not be too lofty of a goal considering that 350 people signedup for Team Lean last year. “Our community goal is to lose 10,000 pounds and to keep participants meeting with trainers even if they plateau half way through,” said Toth, “You can still lose inches even if the scales aren’t moving.” To reach the goal, Team Lean will need 500 people to lose 20 pounds over the 10week period. “Two pounds per week is a short goal that can be reached by making small lifestyle changes,” said Toth, “And we have fun. Our trainers and instructors are awesome, the best in town. We aren’t just a gym. We are a family.” Registration for Team Lean 2014 is going on now. You can register in person at the YMCA or download a registration form at www.valdostaymca.org. SGMC and the YMCA will post weekly leaders on their webpages, and SGMC will offer healthy recipes and tips. Awards will be announced Thursday, April 3.

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Shape Designers

N EW Y E A R , NEW YOU

Medical Weight Loss Clinic

by KRISTIN FINNEY

As the New Year kicks off, so do many New Year’s resolutions. Some people will make the resolution to go on more adventures, visit new places or spend more time with their families. Despite the many different resolutions a person can make, the most popular resolutions continue to involve some variation on losing weight, eating right or being healthier.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

When a person begins to work towards their resolution, some will turn to fad diets, diet pills, or extreme workout regimes to meet their goals. Sadly, most people will give up their resolutions after a few months for one reason or another. Shape Designers of Valdosta is the perfect choice for people that want to reach their goal with less chance of failing. Shape Designers doesn’t simply allow their clients to lose weight, they teach them how to keep the weight off. Some might ask, “What is so special about Shape Designers?” or “I’ve tried everything, how is Shape Designers different?”

The difference is Shape Designers use of the hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). HCG is a naturally produced hormone, found in both men and women, that, when combined with a low calorie diet, helps encourage weight loss in your problem areas. “It [HCG] targets and metabolizes areas of excess fat storage while reducing your hunger. Studies have shown the weight loss comes from fat, rather than muscle. Besides losing weight, your body will be reshaped, as weight loss typically comes from the ‘problem areas’ first,” explains the Shape Designers website.

HCG is typically offered via injection, however they can also offer it in other ways. Weight loss possibilities are endless with Shape Designers. They also offer LipoVite and B12 injections, both of which help with weight loss. These injections combined with their diet plans allow for optimal weight loss that you can get off and keep off. “Shape Designers worked for me because I needed the instant gratifica-

tion of seeing the numbers drop quickly on the scales. That really keeps a person motivated,” said Cathy A., client with Shape Designers. At Shape Designers, each plan begins with a free individual consultation. If you decide to begin Shape Designers, they will give you everything you need to kick off your weight loss during the first meeting. You will be supplied a list of foods that are good

for you, recipes and menus that follow the plan and even a grocery list to tell you what you need to buy. The next consultation will review your medical history and nutritional habits. Once you get started in the program you will be able to come into the office for checks as often as you want. “Some of our customers live out of state and can come only once a month,

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

others come three times a week. If you can’t come by the office once a week we can do the check by phone. We make sure to touch base once a week,” said Mary Holt, R.N. at Shape Designers. While taking part in the program you will also be asked to keep a food journal with a log of all of the foods that you ate that day. “We can look at the food journals and tell if a person is not losing to their potential,” said Mary. Shape Designers doesn’t forget about you once you reach your weight loss goal. They continue to offer a free maintenance program once you’ve reached your goal to ensure that you are keeping the weight off. “It’s free because this is the most important part. This holds people accountable when they have to go from the plan back to every day life,” said Brian. The focus at Shape Designers is not simply to help you lose the weight and then kick you out the door. Shape Designers focuses on teaching their clients how to live the lifestyle by changing their habits

and encouraging them to eat healthy. While eating healthy might seem like a no brainer for weight loss, it is the style in which you eat that makes Shape Designers different. Shape Designers encourages their clients to eat several smaller, healthier meals throughout the day as opposed to eating three large meals. It is believed that eating several times throughout the day helps speed up your metabolism. “I am so glad that I decided to do the Shape Designers’ Program. The entire staff is very concerned

Shape Designers doesn’t forget about you once you reach your weight loss goal. They continue to offer a free maintenance program once you’ve reached your goal...

Before & After...

3338 Country Club Road, Suite M2 Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 247-2585 www.shapedesigners.com

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

about each patient meeting their weight loss goals. They helped me to be cautious of portion sizes and to eat more often to keep my metabolism up. I have lost 86 pounds, 76 inches and feel great,” said Patricia P., a client with Shape Designers. The team at Shape Designers also teaches what to eat. They encourage their clients to make as much of their food at home and to avoid fast food restaurants when possible. “We [Americans] used to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Nowadays we are always on the run and need to grab something convenient. It’s hard to avoid fast food, but it’s best if you can. The human body wasn’t made to consume all of those calories at one time,” said Brian. Shape Designers also reteaches their participants how to grocery shop. “When grocery shopping it is best to shop around the perimeter of the store. That’s where the produce and healthy foods are usually located. A good rule of thumb is ‘If it doesn’t go bad, don’t eat it.’

Avoid processed foods whenever possible and buy organic if you can. It’s a little more expensive, but you are investing in your health,” said Brian. It doesn’t matter whether you want to lose 10 pounds or 100, Shape Designers is perfect for anyone wanting to lose weight. “After years of trying to lose weight, Shape Designers taught me a healthy way to lose weight and keep it off! I lost 70 pounds in 4 months. Thank you Shape Designers,” said Ben H., a client with Shape Designers. Their program focuses on not using pills or shakes to see weight loss, but instead using real food. “We are not like other systems. We teach proper nutrition and how to make the food yourself. We don’t have prepackaged meals. This is not a bandaid solution like diet pills or shakes. It is a

lifestyle adjustment,” said Brian Holt, manager at Shape Designers. “We love our jobs so much. It is so rewarding to see someone go from unhealthy to healthy and to meet their goals,” said Mary. Shape Designers is constantly offering seasonal spe-

cials and January is no different. For more information on their specials or to learn more about the program please contact them at (229)247-2585 or visit their website: www.shapedesigners.com. The office is open Monday and Wednesday 8 a.m.-5

p.m., Friday from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday by appointment. In addition to Brain and Mary Holt, Shape Designers also has the help of Clinical Advisor and weight loss coach Pam Miller and Medical Director Gregory Martin.

Before & After...

DECEMBER 2013 | ValdostaScene

H I S TORY

Quiet Hero in the

Family Tree by DEAN POLING

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Debbie Barnard of Valdosta had always heard stories of her great-great-grandfather, William Henry Haskell. He was an acrobat, an adventurer, a hero. Though she never met him, Barnard’s mother, and grandmother knew him. Coming of age near Chicago, Barnard heard stories about him ... how Great-GreatGrandpa Haskell played a role in saving Chicago’s southside during the great fire that ravaged the city in 1871. Yet, it wasn’t until Barnard began researching the genealogy for her family’s history that she learned more about her great-great-grandfather’s pivotal part in the fire. Her own story, Barnard knows well. Barnard’s parents, Ethan and Barbara Barnard, were raised in the Chicago area. Upon marrying, they honeymooned in Wisconsin. They enjoyed Wisconsin so much, they made it their home. Debbie was born there, but by the time she was 5, the plant where her father worked closed, and the Barnards returned to the Chicago area. They remained in the Chicago area until Debbie was 21 when they moved to Florida to be with a grandmother. Eventually, the Barnards moved to South Georgia in the early 1980s, settling in Brooks County for about 15 years. Debbie worked as an art teacher in the Lowndes County School System, teaching at Lowndes High School and Moulton Branch Elementary School. In these years, she had little interest and even less time to devote

to studying her family tree. Yet, a pivotal moment came in the 1990s. Debbie Barnard recalls asking her mother for the identities of people in several family photos. Her mother named the various ancestors. At the time, Barbara Barnard was healthy and Debbie expected to have her mother for many years to come. Just a few months after identifying the people in the photo, however, her mother passed away in 1994. “If you want to learn about your family history take the time to sit down and talk to family members,” Barnard says. “Sit down and talk to them before they are gone.” In retirement, Barnard stays with her 97-year-old father and she has spent more time researching her genealogy. She conducts research via the Internet and website archives such as Ancestry.com and geni.com She has even had her DNA tested, discovering more about her ethnicity which ranges from British, Irish, German and Scandanavian roots. Through the Internet, she has met and corresponds with several Scandanavian cousins. Through her British ancestry, she has discovered “royal relations, including knights, dukes, earls, kings, and none other than Queen Elizabeth, who is my 14th cousin twice removed,” Barnard notes. “We are related through Henry VII who is my first cousin 16 times removed.”

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

She has found Mayflower ancestors, Revolutionary War soldiers, a connection on both sides of her family to Admiral George Dewey, the great athlete Jim Thorpe, the Western legend Robert Leroy Parker better known as Butch Cassidy, and actress Jean Stapleton. “But I think the most interesting and colorful of my ancestors is my great-great-grandfather William Henry Haskell,” Barnard says. In addition to growing up on stories of Haskell, Barnard recalls her grandmother keeping a small bronze artifact from the Chicago fire on a curio shelf in her house. “When I visited her, I liked to hold it and smell it and imagine that I could still smell the smoke from the fire,” Barnard says. “I was always fascinated by the story and saddened by the horrible devastation the fire caused ...” Family albums contained a handful of photos of Haskell as well as photos he reportedly took on various adventures. In her research, Barnard discovered a Chicago tribute written to her great-great-grandfather upon his death. In 1996, on the 125th anniversary of the great fire, former Chicago Mayor Richard Daley signed a resolution posthumously honoring

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 diorama in Chicago History Museum.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Haskell’s heroism, declaring Oct. 9, 1996 as William Henry Haskell Day in Chicago. To understand what Haskell accomplished, one first must understand the nature of the great Chicago fire. Barnard sets the stage: Summer 1871 had been dry, the ground parched. Most Chicago buildings were made of wood. “On Sunday evening, Oct. 8, shortly after 9 p.m., a fire broke out on the property of Catherine O’Leary,” Barnard writes. “It remains unknown how the fire actually started, but it has usually been attributed to a cow kicking over a lantern in a barn. By the time firemen reached the scene, the fire was completely out of control, consuming everything in its path.” Two days later, rain helped extinguish the fire. In its wake an estimated $200 million in property was destroyed, 100,000 people were left homeless, approximately 300 were dead, the central business district was gone. “As horrible as it was, it could have been much worse had it not been for the action taken by my great-great-grandfather when he was one month shy of his 30th birthday,” Barnard notes.

In 1929, following Haskell’s death, historian George A. Brennan wrote an account of Haskell’s daring efforts to save Chicago’s southside. “He had been a noted acrobat, a scout in the Union Army, an Indian fighter, and later a Chicago businessman,” Brennan wrote of Haskell. “... At the great fire, I met him near the Methodist Church at Wabash Avenue and Harrison Street. It had lost its spire and the fire was eating its way into the church. Haskell organized a fire brigade of two lines of people, stretching to the lake at Michigan Avenue, and pails of all sizes were dipped into the lake and passed to the church.” If the church fire spread, Chicago’s south side would likely be swallowed by the inferno. As the lines handed the pails hand to hand, Haskell climbed to the roof, flinging water ahead of him to cool the slate. He reached the base of the big tower. Two other men followed, carrying water pails for Haskell’s use. They tried following but soon could follow Haskell no further. Haskell reached the top of the church. He hauled up several water pails. He descended into the church in hopes of extinguishing the fire.

...Haskell climbed to the roof, flinging water ahead of him to cool the slate. He reached the base of the big tower. Two other men followed, carrying water pails for Haskell’s use. They tried following but soon could follow Haskell no further.

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The fire was checked, the south side saved. Mr. Haskell and his two helpers were hailed as the men who had conquered the fire and saved the south side.â&#x20AC;?

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“Thousands of people were on their knees praying for him,” Brennan wrote. Haskell went repeatedly in and out of the church ... “until finally, after a long absence, he came back again, bleeding, burned, hair gone, clothes on fire, and standing erect, with his hands uplifted like a prophet of old, he said in a loud ringing voice: ‘Boys, the fire’s out!’ Twas like the day of jubilee! Involuntarily, that vast audience burst into the Doxology, ‘Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow!’ The fire was checked, the south side saved. Mr. Haskell and his two helpers were hailed as the men who had conquered the fire and saved the south side.” Brennan advocated that William Henry Haskell be “honored as one of Chicago’s greatest heroes” and be given special tribute during the 1933 World’s Fair.

Yet, during his life, Haskell never spoke of the daring action, which led to Mayor Daley proclaiming his “courage, tenacity and quiet heroism” 150 years after the fire. For Barnard, the story adds another puzzle piece located and placed in her life. “I think I inherited some of my great-greatgrandfather’s athleticism, sense of adventure and daredevil nature,” Barnard says. She shares adolescent tales of legs covered in Band-Aids following bicycle stunts, of scaling fire escapes, jumping over chain link fences, taking a running leap into an open car window. Discovering the branches of a family tree doesn’t just tell us where we come from. They fill in the blanks of who we are.

2014 The New Year Brings A New Vision & Opportunity

The beginning of a new year often brings a fresh outlook, a new vision for doing things not only differently, but better.

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The internal essence of your blood contains life-giving fundamental protein growth favtors. PRP utilizes a leadingedge patented technology specifically designed. With a simple, quick and advantageous process, your PRP professional is able to derive a high concentration of biological nutrient-rich cells and create autologous platelet-rich plasma. 1. The practitioner draws a similar amount of blood required for a basic lab test. 2. The practitioner places the blood into a centrifuge and spins the blood at a very rapid rate to separate the platelets from the other components of the blood.

Growth Factor Production Known Effects • Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Plays a significant role in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation during the remodeling phase. Stimulates keratinoctye and fibroblast production. • Transforming Growth Factor (TGF) Promotes angiogenesis which is the physiological process involving the growth of new blood vessels. • Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) Promotes angiogenesis, granulation, and epithelialization for the intricate process of the skin repairing itself after injury. • Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) Attracts macrophages and fibroblasts to the zone of injury. Promotes collagen growth and proteoglycan synthesis. • Interleukins, Macrophages, keratinocytes, endothelial cells, lymphocytes, fibroblasts, ostebolasts, basophils, mast cells Activates fibroblast differentiation. INduces collagen and proteogylcan synthesis for healthy cell production and repair of damaged tissues. • Collagen Stimulating Growth Factor Stimulates granulocyte and macrophage proliferation for the growth of healthy tissue and blood cells.

3. The platelet-rich plasma is activated to release at least 8 essential growth factors and signaling proteins. Platelet-rich plasma is a technology that deploys aspects of blood based biochemistry. Because all constitutes retrieved in PRP are exclusively from the patient (autologous in origin), there is virtually no risk of an allergic reaction or intolerance. Nevertheless, before any treatment disclose all the medications you are taking (including herbs) with your doctor.

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D I N ING

Family Steak House by STUART TAYLOR LAKE PARK – The building that stands at 4878 Highway 41 South has a long and storied history. Long before I-75 existed, Highway 41, which runs from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to downtown Miami, was one of the most reliable routes to take from the northeast United States down into the South. Rumors have abounded over the years of it being a

stopover for the mob, a place to rest, get a drink and play some cards before making the last leg of Florida trips. In recent years, it played host to The Tavern, which became well known for its 30-foot-long bar. And now, Jessica Warren and her family have turned it into Kennedy’s Family Steakhouse.

Kennedy’s boneless ribeye is a full pound of tender, ﬂavorful beef.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Warren and her husband, James, were regular patrons of Shorty’s Steakhouse in Valdosta, and when it closed, they started talking about opening a steakhouse. “It was always kind of on my bucket list,” said Warren. “When Shorty’s closed, it jumped to the top.” When James learned The Tavern was being sold, they jumped at the chance.

“To create our own feel, we knew there were a lot of changes to be made.”

Months of renovation followed. Jessica and James, along with Jessica’s father and mother, Jeff and Mary McCarthy, and other family and friends, transformed the building, redoing the floor, recovering the booths, bringing in new tables and taking the 30-foot bar out in six sections. “To create our own feel, we knew there were a lot of changes to be made. We wanted people to walk in and think Kennedy’s, not The Tavern.”

Jessica Warren (fifth from left) and her father, Jeff McCarthy, are joined by the friendly staff of the new Kennedy’s Steakhouse in Lake Park.

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

They did hold on to a little bit of The Tavern, keeping the exposed brick facade throughout the dining room, paying homage to all of the years that came before them. As for the menu, it’s a steak lover’s dream. One side of it just says: “Steak: This is what it’s all about,” followed by a list of the cuts you can get: Top Sirloin, Sirloin Tips, Sirloin Club, Boneless Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Boneless N.Y. Steak, Chopped Steak and a Steak Burger. Even the children’s menu is steak heavy, though they do add a choice of chicken strips. They make a couple of concessions toward non-steak eaters. For years, Jessica’s brother has refused to eat any steak not cooked by their father. “We’ve been to some of the finest steakhouses in the world,” said McCarthy. “He just gets the chicken.” Fittingly, Kennedy’s offers a grilled chicken breast. They also offer Cajun grilled shrimp, a favorite of James’. Jessica had her doubts about it, but after being open only a short time, it’s proved popular.

The sirloin, served here with a helping of homemade fries, is a house favorite.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

The sirloin for two served with homemade onion rings and fresh vegetables.

“Steak: This is what it’s all about.”

JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

After opening in the first half of December and working out the kinks of running a restaurant, Jessica and her family have their sights on a few more renovations, adding a private banquet room that seats up to 75 people and a smaller, semi-private room that seats 16-20. When the weather warms, they plan to add an outdoor cocktail area, somewhere people can socialize and relax. Once they get their license in January, they’ll serve beer and wine but no liquor drinks. They’ve got respect for the history of the building, but they’re doing their own thing, making it their own. “We’re in it for the long haul,” said Jessica. “It’s something we’d like to pass down to family one day and keep it going.”

•

Hostesses Heather Campbell and Shannon McCallum greet customers with a friendly smile.

•

Kennedy’s Family Steak House is located at 4878 Hwy 41 South, just north of Lake Park. Hours are 4-10PM Thursday, Friday & Saturday.

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Arts&Entertainment JANUARY 2014 > Drawproject

> Artist Irene Dodd

Sallie & Harmon Boyette Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Jan. 13 through Feb. 19, show opens with a free, public reception, 5-7 p.m., Jan. 13. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and non-reception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

Josette’s Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Jan. 13 through Feb. 19, show opens with a free, public reception, 5-7 p.m., Jan. 13. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and nonreception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

> Fall Term AE Work Roberta George Children’s Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Jan. 13 through Feb. 19, show opens with a free, public reception, 5-7 p.m., Jan. 13. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and non-reception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

>“Dixie Swim Club” The Dosta Playhouse, 122 N. Ashley St. Theatre Guild Valdosta presents this comedy by playwrights Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. Synopsis: “Five women, whose friendship began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside one weekend every year to recharge those relationships.” Performance dates: Jan. 30 through Feb. 2, Feb. 6-8. More

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Dance student scholarships in this annual fairy tale dance production. Performance dates: Jan. 25, 26. More information: Call (229) 333-5973; or visit www.valdosta.edu/comarts

> Artist Lilian Garcia-Roig Sallie and Harmon Boyette Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Nov. 4 through Jan. 8, 2014. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and non-reception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

> Artist Julie Hilliard Josette’s Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Nov. 4 through Jan. 8, 2014. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and non-reception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

> St. John’s School works Roberta George Children’s Gallery, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, 527 N. Patterson St. Show dates: Nov. 4 through Jan. 8, 2014. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays and non-reception Mondays. Admission: Free. More information: Call (229) 247-2787; or visit www.turnercenter.org

Conspicuous Nature by Lilian Garcia-Roig on exhibit through Jan. 8

information: Call (229) 24-STAGE; or visit www.theatreguildvaldosta.com

> Valdosta National 2014 Valdosta State University Fine Art Gallery, VSU Fine Arts Building, corner of Oak and Brookwood. VSU Art Department’s Annual, nationwide, all-juried art competition. Free, public reception: 7-8:30 p.m., Jan. 21. Run dates: Jan. 21-Feb. 8. Gallery hours: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday’s though Thursdays; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays. Admission: Free. More information: Contact Julie Bowland, gallery director, (229) 333-5835; or email jabowlan@valdosta.edu

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>“Eventually Ever After” Sawyer Theatre, Valdosta State University Fine Arts Building, corner of Oak and Brookwood. VSU Theatre & Dance’s annual children’s show, written, directed and choreographed by VSU Theatre & Dance’s Sarah Wildes Arnett. Synopsis: “Did you ever wonder what would happen if Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother showed up too late or if Little Red Riding Hood did not follow the directions to her Grandmother’s house? Join us in this dance production of twisted tales, created specifically for young audiences, in ‘Eventually Ever After.’ Well-known fictional characters are brought to life through movement and audience participation in order to share the importance of timeliness and commitment.” Run dates: Jan. 31-Feb. 1; show will tour schools through February and March. More information: Call (229) 333-5973; or visit www.valdosta.edu/comarts

>“Cinderella” Mathis City Auditorium, 2300 N. Ashley St. Valdosta School of Ballet and VSU Theatre & Dance partner to raise money for VSU Theatre &

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R E L AT I O N S H I P ADVICE

Resolve to be

BY MARK W EBB Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice at South Georgia Psychiatric and Counseling Center in Valdosta. He is the author of “How To Be A Great Partner”. Read more of his articles at www.TheRelationshipSpecialist.com

ABetter Friend “If you golookingfor a friend,you’regoingtofindthey’re scarce. If yougo outtobe a friend,you’llfind them everywhere.” ~ Zig Ziglar

1)NeverBegossip Loyal. 3) Never Make A Promise You about your friend. Never say Know You Can’t Keep.

5) Remember The Golden Rule. Always treat your friends the way you want

anything about your friend that you wouldn’t say in front of them. No one likes a backstabber. Don’t let others talk bad about your friend. Give your friend the benefit of the doubt if you ever hear something that doesn’t seem like something they would do or say. Wait to make a judgment call when you can check it out with your friend first. Tell the gossiper to stop spreading the story. Stay devoted to your friend.

to be treated. Don’t do or say anything that you wouldn’t want done to you.

2) Watch Their Back. If your friend is about to do something foolish, you have the responsibility to intervene. If they have had too much to drink, do not let them drive. If they are feeling hopeless about life, your friendship dictates you help them get professional help.

“Friendshipisn’tabout whomyou have known the longest...It’s about who came,and neverleft yourside...” ~ Unknown

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Friendships live or die based on the level of trust between the two of you. Keep your word. If something comes up that prevents you from doing what you promised; make sure you let your friend know as soon as possible. Don’t neglect the fact that your friend is counting on you. Show your respect of the friendship by giving notice that you cannot fulfill your promise or perhaps try to find someone else to fulfill your responsibility. Do not leave them in the dark wondering what happened to you.

“Never explain. Yourfriends don’tneed it andyourenemies won’tbelieveit.” ~ sugar packet from Muldoon’s

6) Be Happy For Their Success. If your friend achieves any type of goal; be

4) Give Good Advice. Good advice is not about telling your friend

happy for them. A great friend never gets jealous of their friend’s victories but rather celebrates with them.

how they should be living their life or what they should do. Good advice is about listening to their situation and based on your perception; telling them what you would do if you were in their shoes. If you perceive they may make a mistake or get hurt, you warn them. If they chose to ignore your advice do not be offended; it is their responsibility to make good choices.

7) Don’t Keep Score. A friendship isn’t a competition. Don’t keep track of who cares the most or who spent the most money on the last gift. You should have a general sense that the friendship is generally fulfilling to both of you.

8) Be Dependable. A great friend can be counted on. They are solid in their dedication to the friendship and can be counted on to be there for you in thick and thin.

“The words thatcome from a friend’smouthare “I’llbe there when yousayyou need me”butthe words from a true friend’sheartare “I’llbe there...whether yousay you need meornot.” ~ Unknown

9) Be Honest. A great friend will tell you the truth even if it’s something you don’t want to hear. Similarly, a therapist gives honest feedback, telling you what you need to hear, maybe not so much what you want to hear sometimes.

10) Keep Their Secrets. If your friend has told you something in confidence; keep it to yourself. This doesn’t include foolishness such as if they are about to run away or hurt themselves. In these type of cases, you must overstep this expectation and tell someone.

“Everyonehearswhat you say. Friendslistento what you say.Bestfriends listen to what youdon’tsay.” ~ Unknown

11) Be There in the Good Times and in the Bad. Friendship is about involvement. A friend attends graduations and birthday parties but they also attend funerals and hospitalizations.

12) Give Them Space. Allow your friend to have other friends. Don’t be too needy or monopolizing of their time and energy. A strong friendship has the ability to allow some breathing room for other things.

13) Listen. Give your full attention when your friend is talking. Be active in the listening process by asking questions and making comments but don’t steer the conversation back to you. Make sure your friendship has a balance between listening and speaking.

14) Don’t Wear Out Your Welcome. No one likes the feeling of being used or associating with people who lack manners. Know when it’s time to go home. Don’t take advantage of your friend’s generosity. If you borrow something, return it without being asked. Don’t let your friend pick up the check every time you go out to eat, even if they offer. No one like a moocher. Friendships reciprocate.

15) Add Value. When I was a Boy Scout, I was taught to leave things better than I found them. Friendships should improve the lives of each of you. Strive to make your friend’s life better than it was before you met.

“Therecomes a pointin your life whenyou realize who reallymatters,who never did, and whoalwayswill.” ~ Unknown

“Atruefriendsees thefirst tear...catches the second... andstops thethird.” ~ Angelique

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T R AVEL

The Trains of Europe by DAVID & KAY SCOTT

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

A high-speed train in Prague Central Station

rain buffs can land in no better place than Europe where rails lead to nearly every nook and cranny of the continent. Fast trains, slow trains, luxury trains, night trains, graffiti-covered trains, ultra-modern trains, and pasttheir-prime trains connect towns and cities throughout Europe. Travelers can ride the rails from the southern coast of Croatia to north of the Arctic Circle. Several train changes are required for

such a lengthy trip, but negotiating train stations and climbing aboard a new train is an integral part of rail travel. Travelers can catch a train in Budapest and overnight in Prague before hopping a train to Berlin the following morning. Board a German train in Frankfurt and ride to Paris, or a Swiss train in Zurich and enjoy a scenic journey to Milan, Italy. The possibilities are endless.

Fast trains are the most comfortable with the fewest stops, although passengers donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always see a lot because the scenery passes so rapidly. Regional trains make more frequent stops and often offer larger windows for travelers who are not in a hurry. Some regional trains are quite nice while others are relatively old and in need of sprucing up. One of our regional trains in Italy was covered with so much graffiti that it was nearly impossible to see out the windows.

T R AVEL European train travel is not created equal. Switzerland, Germany, and Austria in our opinion operate the best systems. France is close although we found that the French long-distance TGVs were frequently full, thereby making it impossible to obtain a reservation on short notice. French regional trains tend to be less crowded, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require a reservation, and offer larger windows with better views of the countryside. Further north in Scandinavia, service outside Denmark is less frequent, thus requiring more planning. Miss a train in Germany and another is likely to pass through within an hour or two. This frequency isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t available in Norway, Sweden, or Finland where some routes may experience only a few trains per day. Train travel south of Austria and Switzerland can become more frustrating with less frequent and reliable service, plus fewer station attendants who speak English, especially in the smaller towns. The latter can be-

come an important issue when one or more connections are required to reach a destination. Spain and Italy have expanded their stables of fast trains, some of which compare favorably with those in Germany. However, their regional trains are a notch or two below the rail systems to the north. Switzerland and Austria each have excellent rail service, although neither country has a need for trains that operate at 150 to 180 miles per hour. It appears European rail systems have expanded the use of fast trains more rapidly than they have prepared the rails to handle the speeds of which the trains are capable. Thus, a number of premium trains operate at relatively modest speeds comparable to some of the regional trains. Still, the fast trains generally offer fewer stops resulting in passengers reaching a destination more quickly. Even in Germany, where rail transportation has long been a source of national pride, service

French and German trains prepare to depart from Munich Central Station

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

appears to have deteriorated over the last decade. During our early European trips in the 1990s, train connections as short as five or 10 minutes were not a concern because we could count on the trains being punctual. During our recent trip, German trains were frequently late enough that we tried to schedule connection times of at least 15 minutes. Two of our German trains were canceled, something we had not experienced during previous trips. Regardless, the German rail system is a joy to those of us who love to ride trains. For those anticipating extensive rail travel, the Eurail Global Pass that permits unlimited first class train travel in 25 countries (England, Poland, and several other European countries are excluded) is likely to prove a bargain. The wide variety of these passes are available including traveling any 10 days within two months ($935), 15 consecutive days ($793), and one-month ($1,258).

Strange-looking trains in the Netherlands

Dining-lounge car on a German intercity train

Dining car on the Madrid to Paris night train JANUARY 2014 | ValdostaScene

T R AVEL First class section of a French TGV train

Two-month and three-month passes are also available at a higher cost, although at a lower cost on a per-day basis. Despite the relatively high expense, Global Passes can save many times their cost. Consider that a first-class ticket from Munich to Budapest costs approximately $250. Our three-day rail journey from Stockholm to Stuttgart, Germany by way of Copenhagen,

A French TGV arrives in Strasbourg Central Station

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Hamburg, and Frankfurt would have cost more than $600 without the pass. A wide variety of passes other than Global Passes are available. Travelers can choose among single country passes or passes valid within a limited group of countries (for example, a pass for Scandinavian countries). Passes are also available at a lower cost for second-class travel. Second-class cars typically have two seats on each side of an aisle, compared to firstclass cars that have a single seat on one side and two seats on the other. Riding first class not only means more spacious and comfortable seating, but greater likeli-

hood of locating a vacant seat. We have been on many a train in which second-class cars were packed while first-class cars had open seats. In addition, first-class passengers on some trains receive free coffee and snacks, or, in some instances, meals. Newspapers are available in first class on German and Austrian trains and complimentary fruit and coffee are offered on Swedish trains. Danish trains offer free coffee and an unusual variety of licorice candy. Fast trains (for example, French TGVs and Spanish AVEs) and trains that cross national borders (ECs) often require a seat reservation, but the cost for pass holders is generally nominal compared to the price of a regular ticket. For example, seat reservations required on most long-distance trains in Spain range from 12 to 28 euros. We paid 4 euros for a seat reservation from

Spain’s fastest train, the AVE, sits in Barcelona Sants waiting to depart for Madrid

Mannheim, Germany to Milan, Italy. German, Austrian, and Swiss trains are at the head of the class with respect to allowing Eurail pass holders to travel without a reservation. In most cases, pass holders traveling in these countries merely hop on and plop down in an unreserved seat. A complete listing of the many types of available passes along with their cost is available at www.eurail.com. Passes can be purchased online or through most travel agencies. David and Kay Scott reside in Valdosta and are authors of “Complete Guide to the National Park Lodges” (Globe Pequot).

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W H E R E W ERE YOU SCENE?

Leadership Lowndes Class of 2014 welcome reception at The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts photos by BRANDON POWERS

Class members, present and past, gather with their guests during the welcome reception.

Past and Present class members welcome the 2014 Leadership Lowndes class.

The Leadership Lowndes Class of 2014 was recognized during a welcome reception of held at the Turner Center for the Arts. The 2014 class is comprised of Jamie Baltrus, Leonard Carter, Lori Cauley, Dacia Charlesworth, Joby Crane, David D'Amico, J.D. Dean, Malynda Dorsey, Jason Dove, Meghan Duke, Jessica Freeman, Joe Herndon, Brian Hickox, Julie Hiers, Micah Ian Hollimon, Tommy Jabari Jackson, Philip Jones, Danny Knight, Amanda Leverett, Jared McGahee, Jonathan Miller, Kerry Morris, Diondra Nichols, Paula Sheffield, Ben Smith, Lee Beth Smith, Ashleigh Tucker, Matthew Wells, Jammie Wilbanks and Erin Willis. 50

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

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Sementha Mathews, who will serve as the 2014 President of Leadership Lowndes, speaks to the crowd during the welcome.

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W H E R E W ERE YOU SCENE?

Valdosta’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Old City Hall building photos by MATTHEW WOODY

Kade Manghram, 6, embraces Santa Claus at Valdosta’s Christmas Tree Lighting.

Mayor John Gayle welcomes everyone to the Christmas tree lighting.

Mayor John Gayle and Valdosta’s First Lady, Peggy Gayle, take a picture with Santa Claus.

Bayleigh Dame, 7, thinks about what she wants for Christmas.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014

Children from Moody’s Youth Programs welcomed the audience by singing Christmas carols before Mayor John Gayle took the stage to kick-off Valdosta’s annual Christmas tree lighting.

Santa Claus surprises children from the Moody Youth Programs at Valdosta’s annual Christmas tree lighting.

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W H E R E W ERE YOU SCENE?

Valdosta Christmas Parade photos by STUART TAYLOR

Valdosta High’s cheerleaders kept smiling despite the rain.

The Lowndes High Bridgemen donned Santa hats for the parade.

Wild Adventures brought a bright and fun display to the parade.

Pediatria Health Care for Kids presented a festive Christmas float.

The Outback Riders were one of many organizations and businesses presenting floats in this year’s parade.

Santa Claus made his annual appearance to cap off Valdosta’s Christmas Parade.

ValdostaScene | JANUARY 2014