Tommy G’s is the newest restaurant from the Uptown Life Group. Now open in Midland Commons. Tommy G’s focuses on serving New York-style pizza, along with wings, hoagies, and burgers. Great atmosphere, counter-service restaurant, where service is king and the food and drink are the stars.
Chattahoochee Valley Living was at the grand opening at Tommy G’s. “We are excited to have Tommy G’s in Columbus,” commented Bill Evans, Publisher of CVL.
The Uptown Life Group also owns local favorites like The Mixed Market, The Loft, 2 Mabella Restaurants and the Salt Cellar. Tommy G’s is the newest creation from Tom Jones and the Uptown Life Group Team.
Tommy G’s is open Monday through Saturday from 5p to closing.
Briggs & Associates: Empowering Individuals and Strengthening Communities Through Supported Employment
CVL Staff Writer
Introduction
assistance for as long as needed.
At Briggs & Associates, the belief that “There is a place and a means for every man alive” (Shakespeare) is not just a motto but a guiding principle driving the company’s mission. Since its establishment in 1989, this Georgia-based private for-profit agency has worked to shift the narrative around individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and mental health diagnoses. Instead of framing these individuals within the confines of pity or charity, Briggs & Associates focuses on empowering them to contribute meaningfully to their communities through supported employment services.
A Vision Built on Ability and Contribution
The founding principle of Briggs & Associates emphasizes the efficient use of tax funds to foster genuine contributions from individuals. The agency is committed to demonstrating that everyone, regardless of their background or challenges, has the ability to succeed in the workplace. They firmly believe, “Anyone who has a desire has the ability to be successful in the workplace,” and work tirelessly to make this vision a reality.
Supported Employment Services: A Comprehensive Approach
Briggs & Associates provides a suite of supported employment services to help individuals secure and thrive in meaningful careers. Career specialists, also known as job coaches, offer tailored support at every stage of the job search process—from identifying career interests and creating resumes to providing on-the-job
Unlike many other agencies, Briggs does not terminate services after the standard three-month employment stability period. Recognizing that challenges may arise even after a job is secured, they offer ongoing support based on each individual’s unique needs. Clients are empowered to continue or end services at their discretion, with the option to return for support in the future.
Tailored, Hands-On Support
Briggs & Associates provides direct support in mastering both hard and soft skills necessary for job success. This includes learning job-specific tasks and integrating into workplace culture. Job coaches assist clients with skills such as time management, conflict resolution, maintaining schedules, and interacting effectively with coworkers and managers.
Clients work in diverse fields, including construction, healthcare, retail, service industries, and the arts. Their careers range from nurse practitioners and carpenters to restaurant servers and entrepreneurs. Each individual is valued as a contributing employee, with opportunities to thrive in their workplace and community.
State-Funded Services at No Cost to Clients
Briggs & Associates is a state-funded program, meaning services are provided at no cost to clients. Their “No Refusal” policy ensures that anyone ready to participate in the workforce can access their services, regardless of background or challenges. Individuals facing homelessness, addiction, or incarceration are also eligible for support, with partnerships in place with second-chance businesses to enhance employment opportunities.
In addition to employment services, Briggs offers referrals to resources such as housing, food assistance, mental health counseling, and medication compliance. These are optional but available to help clients achieve long-term stability.
A Commitment to Self-Direction and Growth
Briggs & Associates emphasizes self-direction, encouraging clients to make their own career choices and explore roles that resonate with them. This approach fosters confidence, independence, and pride as clients learn from their experiences. Support continues as individuals pursue career development, continuing education, or new skills. Whether a client wants to advance their career, return to school, or learn new skills, Briggs is there to help them unlock their potential.
Impact on Communities and Local Economies
The agency’s efforts transform not only individual lives but also entire communities. By supporting individuals with disabilities and other employment barriers, Briggs enhances the success of local businesses. Stable incomes allow clients to reinvest in their communities, driving economic growth and fostering inclusivity. Briggs’ supported employment efforts help reduce crime, improve public safety, and decrease dependence on social services, contributing to healthier, safer, and more vibrant local economies like Columbus, Georgia.
Real Jobs, Real People, Real Success
Briggs & Associates goes beyond job placement to create meaningful careers that lead to financial stability and personal fulfillment. By challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers, the agency demonstrates that everyone has the potential to contribute to the workforce and society.
As a leader in supported employment, Briggs continues to advocate for inclusion and the value of every individual. Their success is a testament to the power of opportunity and the belief that communities are strongest when all members are valued contributors.
Conclusion
For over three decades, Briggs & Associates has remained dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities and other challenges achieve success in the workplace. Through a focus on inclusion, empowerment, and self-direction, the agency enables clients to realize their potential and make lasting contributions to their communities. By fostering personal growth, financial stability, and strong relationships, Briggs & Associates transforms lives and strengthens communities, proving that when individuals are given the chance to succeed, everyone benefits.
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Celebrates National Blood Donor Month in January
January is National Blood Donor Month, and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is kicking off 2025 by celebrating and spreading awareness about the importance of giving blood. This annual observation honors selfless blood donors and encourages firsttime donors to give the gift of life in the new year.
National Blood Donor Month was first celebrated in January 1970, following a proclamation by President Richard Nixon. Now in its 55th year, the observance highlights the vital role blood donors play in public health, especially during a time when many blood centers experience supply shortages. This year’s celebration is particularly significant, as all blood types are needed to ensure hospitals have the necessary supplies to treat patients.
LifeSouth supplies blood to hospitals including St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, East Alabama Health, and Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital. Blood donated with LifeSouth directly benefits patients at these hospitals.
In honor of National Blood Donor Month, all blood donors in January will receive a commemorative sweatshirt. Platelet and double red cell donors will also receive a $40 e-gift card, while supplies last.
LifeSouth’s Columbus donor center is located at 5550 Whittlesey Blvd., Suite 820, next to Kirklands and TJ Maxx. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday,
About LifeSouth
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In December, LifeSouth welcomed new regional manager, Karisa Gardner.
LifeSouth encourages residents to participate in National Blood Donor Month in the following ways:
Make a donation: With an average 1–2 day blood supply available in Georgia, donations are more critical than ever. Regular and first-time donors can visit a donor center or find a mobile blood drive in one of LifeSouth’s red, white, and blue buses.
Encourage a first-time donor: With a low percentage of the population donating blood each year, encouraging someone to donate with you can make a significant impact.
Host a blood drive: Businesses, organizations, churches, professional groups, and neighborhoods can support the community by hosting a blood drive with LifeSouth.
Share your story: Personal stories can inspire others to save lives. Share your experience on social media by tagging @LifeSouth on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and using the hashtag #NationalBloodDonorMonth.
For more information or to find a blood drive near you, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707, visit www.lifesouth.org, or download the LifeSouth app. Appointments can also be made online.
LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. The LifeSouth team is dedicated to ensuring blood is available when patients need it. To learn more, visit LifeSouth.org. For additional resources and information about blood donation, visit donatingblood.org.
Springer Theatre Kicks Off Second
Half of 2024-25 Season with Tribute to a Local Legend Gertrude “Ma” Rainey in August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Written by Jhai James, Marketing and Communications Manager, Springer Opera House
(Columbus, Ga.) – The second half of the Springer Theatre’s 2024-25 season opens on January 23 with the Tony Award-winning Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. This powerful play by August Wilson portrays the life and struggles of a Black blues singer in 1927 Chicago. It serves as both a celebration of Black culture and a critique of the racial oppression within the music industry. More than just a performance, it represents a return to the roots of the blues and a homecoming for Ma Rainey, whose story begins at the Springer.
Columbus residents will recognize Ma Rainey’s name as a cornerstone of the city’s musical history. Her legacy lives on, not only in the annals of American blues but also in the cultural memory of the community. As the “Mother of the Blues,” Rainey’s contributions to music and culture continue to resonate, influencing both the blues genre and the broader history of Black artistic expression. Columbus remains a living testament to her powerful
impact, with her story inspiring and influencing future generations.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is part of Wilson’s renowned Pittsburgh Cycle, a series of ten plays chronicling the lives of African Americans in the early to mid-20th century. The play examines the exploitation of Black artists in the music industry, focusing on Ma Rainey, a larger-than-life blues singer. Tension arises as Rainey navigates contentious interactions with her band members, manager, and record producer, who often attempt to control her artistry and disregard her needs.
Wilson’s depiction draws from the real-life Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, born in 1886 in Columbus, Ga. Rainey transformed the blues genre into a powerful expression of African American life, particularly in the rural South. Her career, spanning the 1920s and 1930s, made her one of the first African American women to write and record blues music. The play honors her legacy while exploring the challenges she faced as a Black woman in the entertainment industry.
Columbus and Ma Rainey’s Legacy
Columbus takes pride in its connection to Ma Rainey, who first performed on stage at the Springer Opera House. Over a century later, the Springer remains a vibrant artistic and cultural hub, making Rainey’s story especially significant.
Springer Artistic Director Keith McCoy, who also directs this production, reflects on its importance. “The choice to feature Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a fitting tribute to the city that helped shape this blues legend,” McCoy said. “The play powerfully portrays Rainey’s determination to control her music and narrative in an industry that sought to exploit her talent.”
McCoy emphasizes the theater’s commitment to cultural diversity, noting that staging Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom in Rainey’s hometown highlights the historical and cultural significance of her life and music while strengthening the ties between the artist and the community that nurtured her.
The Springer Theatre, one of the oldest regional producing theaters in the country, continues its mission of celebrating essential stories, particularly those of African Americans. This production anchors the current season, showcasing the theater’s dedication to presenting work that matters.
Performance Details
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom runs from January 23 to February 2 on the Springer’s MainStage.
As an added incentive, the Springer offers the Curtain Call ticket discount program, providing significantly reduced prices for last-minute attendees. For tickets, showtimes, and discount information, call the box office at (706) 327-3688, visit www. springeroperahouse.org, or stop by in person at 103 10th Street, Columbus, Georgia.
All photos courtesy of Jhai James
From Balloons to Memories: How Krystle Albert is Creating Magic with Fancy That
Written by Maria Hayes
When Krystle Albert set out to celebrate her daughter Kadance’s sweet 16, she had no idea it would spark a business. What began as a DIY labor of love—a handmade balloon garland and foam board marquee—quickly became the foundation for something much bigger. The event coordinator at the venue was so impressed with her work that they suggested she turn her creations into a business. That’s when Fancy That was born, a business Krystle now runs alongside her husband, Nik.
“We wanted Kadance and her friends to have an epic photo opportunity, so we went all out,” Krystle shares. “When the event coordinator mentioned turning it into a business, it was like a light bulb went off. I started learning more about balloons, and Nik began building marquee letters out of wood. If we were going to do this, we wanted to do it right—quality over everything.”
For Krystle, the joy she brings to her clients is what drives her. “I love seeing their faces when everything comes together. It’s all about celebrating life’s big and small moments and creating memories that last,” she says. “That’s really my ‘why.’”
But like many entrepreneurs, Krystle admits she didn’t always feel ready to take the plunge. “If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be to just go for it,” she reflects. “I used to overthink everything and wait for the ‘right time,’ but starting Fancy That taught me that sometimes you just have to trust your gut. Our skills were already there; we just needed to get out of our own way.”
Motivation for Krystle comes from the creative process and the impact her work has on others. “Seeing how our designs transform a space and bring joy to people is so rewarding,” she says. “I love brainstorming new ideas and watching it all come to life. Working with Nik makes it even better—we’re always bouncing ideas off each other, and we’ve got some big plans for 2025!”
Krystle also offers advice to other women navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. “When you’re feeling defeated, take a step back and remember why you started,” she says. “Don’t let the tough days overshadow all you’ve accomplished. Celebrate the small wins, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. I’ve gained incredible friends and cheerleaders through this business, and their support has been invaluable.”
For Krystle, the journey of building Fancy That has been as magical as the events she creates. “This has been such a learning experience, but it’s also been a blast,” she says. “To anyone thinking about starting something new: trust your creativity, take the leap, and surround yourself with people who lift you up. Every event, no matter how big or small, can be magical. And that’s what makes it all worth it.”
Krystle’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, courage, and community. Through Fancy That, she’s not just decorating events—she’s creating unforgettable moments and proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary businesses begin with a single celebration.
To my fellow women entrepreneurs: stay the course, do it from your heart, and create magic. Someone out there needs what you have to offer. I promise, it’s worth it to take that leap of faith. And never forget… I believe in you.
Stay Protected by Understanding the Need for Vaccines
(Family Features) As health needs evolve throughout life, it can be easy to forget how crucial vaccinations can be for protecting against preventable diseases. Many associate vaccines with childhood, remembering the series of shots received during early school years. However, vaccination importance extends far beyond adolescence.
Vaccines are not just for children attending elementary school and college students returning to campuses – they should be incorporated into a lifelong commitment to health and wellness. Whether required or recommended, vaccinations can play a pivotal role in safeguarding individual health and promoting community well-being. That’s why now is an excellent time to check in and make sure your family members are protected from infectious diseases at every stage of life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines help create protective antibodies that fight infections. The experts at the CDC state childhood vaccinations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubeola), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and HPV, are known to prevent around 4 million global deaths annually. However, only 1 in 5 adults are up to date on their vaccines, highlighting a critical gap in public health awareness and readiness.
Vaccines work by training immune systems to recognize and combat harmful viruses or bacteria. The immune system’s efficiency can decrease while aging, making people more susceptible to diseases. That’s why staying current with recommended vaccines is essential throughout each person’s life.
Protecting Your Community
Community pharmacies and clinics, such as the Kroger Family of Companies’ Pharmacies and The Little Clinic LLC, are accessible options for people seeking the health care services they need outside of traditional settings. These facilities offer a range of high-quality services, including medication counseling, health screenings and immunizations. This convenience is crucial for routine preventive care, including year-round vaccine administration, which should not be limited to a single season. Vulnerable populations, including those ages 60 and older, individuals with chronic diseases and some minority populations, are more at risk for contracting certain infections. These groups may need to maintain updated vaccinations and boosters throughout the year. For children younger than 5 years of age, check with your local pharmacist or clinician for vaccine guidelines.
Unlike some traditional health care settings, retail pharmacies and clinics are often located within local communities and have extended hours that cater to busy schedules, allowing people to get their families vaccinated with more flexibility. In fact, 90% of the U.S. population lives within 5 miles of a community pharmacy. Options like the Kroger Family of Companies’ Pharmacies, The Little Clinic and other retail pharmacies offer vaccine administration within their pharmacy and clinic locations, making vaccinations a seamless part of the health care experience they provide.
Trusting Medical Professionals
Pharmacists and clinicians with Kroger Health are available during convenient times to provide advice on vaccinations you and your family may need. Pharmacists and nurse practitioners can provide recommendations based on your age, health conditions and lifestyle. They can also address concerns or questions about vaccines to help you make the best decisions for you and your family.
Vaccines are a cornerstone of preventive health care, helping peoples’
bodies produce protective antibodies that can defend against infections and promote overall health. That’s why staying up to date with vaccinations is important at all ages. With a commitment to safeguarding families through comprehensive vaccination services, a local team of medical professionals can offer professional, credible and convenient health care solutions under one roof.
To learn more about the vaccinations you might need throughout life, visit kroger.com/vaccinations, or plan a visit to a local pharmacy or clinic.
Fuller Family Farm: Quality Hay and Fresh Beef in Ellerslie, GA
Nestled in the heart of Ellerslie, GA, Fuller Family Farm is a family-owned and operated farm dedicated to providing the highest quality hay and fresh beef. The farm is run by Jim and Krista Fuller, who, along with their family, live and work on the property. Jim, a third-generation farmer, brings years of experience and a passion for producing top-quality products.
“Our farm is built on love and wholesome values,” the Fullers share. “We take pride in offering products that we use in our own family.”
Fuller Family Farm specializes in fresh, farm-raised beef, available for purchase in small bundles or in bulk, including quarter, half, or whole cows. Customers can visit the farm’s website, jimfullerfarm.com, for more information and to order through their online store.
With a commitment to quality and family values, Fuller Family Farm is proud to serve their local community with fresh, sustainable products straight from their fields to your table.
THE CARE they need. THE HOME they love.
Home Instead offers safe and reliable care for your loved ones as they age, provided in the comfort of their own homes with a focus on transparency. As we all face the challenges of aging, Home Instead is here to help. Our trained Care Professionals deliver the high-quality guidance and support you deserve, all while ensuring your loved ones feel comfortable in their own environment.
Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission Ends the Year on a High Note and Gears Up for 2025
Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission Ends the Year on a High Note and Gears Up for 2025
The Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission (KCBC) wrapped up 2024 on a wonderful note with the launch of its first official KCBC business and is kicking off 2025 with exciting initiatives!
On December 18, 2024, KCBC, in partnership with the Columbus Civic Center, made a groundbreaking announcement that promises to reshape the city’s environmental future. The Civic Center proudly became the first facility in Columbus to become an official KCBC Business! This milestone marks the start of a bold new era focused on reducing waste, conserving energy, and promoting sustainable practices across the community.
Together, the Columbus Civic Center and KCBC are setting a powerful example of environmental stewardship. Visitors will notice KCBC-branded recycling areas and bins integrated throughout the Civic Center concourse. Be sure to check them out the next time you visit! Interested in becoming an official KCBC Business? Stay tuned for details on how to join, coming early in 2025. Feel free to give us a call with any questions in the meantime!
Here are a few ways you can get involved:
Bring One for the Chipper: Drop off your Christmas tree at one of five local parks starting December 26. Participating parks include Dinglewood Park, Shirley Winston Park, Cooper Creek Park, Britt David Park, and Oxbow Meadows. The trees will be recycled to create fish habitats and support ecosystems in local lakes and rivers. Follow KCBC on social media for updates on this and other projects.
Shoe Us the Love Again: Donate shoes! Drop-off locations include the City Services Center, all local fire stations, the Civic Center, and participating schools (check with your local school to confirm). Collected shoes will be sent to developing countries, where they’ll provide essential footwear or be repurposed into new items, creating jobs and opportunities.
8th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Outdoor Learning Trail Cleanup: Join KCBC and Turn Around Columbus on Monday, January 20, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for this impactful event. Registration details can be found on our website, or follow KCBC on social media for the registration link as soon as it’s available.
Looking Forward to Going Green Together!
Stay connected with KCBC on social media to learn more about these and other initiatives. Let’s make 2025 a year of environmental progress for Columbus.
Chef Lee’s Peking Restaurant Helps the Chattahoochee Valley Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025
By Bill Evans
Enter the Year of the Snake! If you want to learn more about the Chinese New Year, Hariet Zhu, owner of Chef Lee’s Peking Restaurant in Columbus, is the person to ask. The 2025 Chinese New Year celebrates the Year of the Snake, with each zodiac animal carrying its own meaning and significance.
Hariet explains that the Chinese Zodiac is based on a complex 12-year cycle, represented by 12 animals in the following order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Your zodiac animal sign is determined by your year of birth,
and you can find your animal sign on the place settings at Chef Lee’s. Hariet adds that each year has specific meanings based on the positions of the stars. Myths and folk tales connected to the Lunar New Year make it fun for all ages to learn about. Hariet is always happy to share stories of Chinese culture with guests at her restaurant.
On a recent visit, Hariet shared some fascinating details about the Lunar New Year, which lasts 15 days. Each day has unique activities and significance
Lunar New Year’s Eve – January 29, 2025: Traditionally celebrated with a feast featuring dishes associated with luck. For example, fish symbolizes “surplus,” puddings represent advancement, and dumplings resemble gold ingots.
Day 7: The People’s Birthday – February 6, 2025: This day honors the creation of humanity by the Chinese mother goddess Nuwa.
Day 15: Lantern Festival – February 12, 2025: Marking the first full moon of the year, this festival celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Lanterns are lit to drive out darkness and bring hope for the year ahead. Hariet explained that in ancient times, this was also considered Chinese Valentine’s Day, as young girls could admire lanterns and meet boys.
Chef Lee’s Peking Restaurant is one of my favorite places to visit, not only for its delicious authentic Chinese cuisine but also for the engaging conversations with Hariet. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, including Sundays and Mondays, making it a convenient choice for any day.
Chef Lee’s is also part of the community, participating in the Dining for Charities program with special savings available on diningforcharities.com.
Be sure to visit Chef Lee’s Peking Restaurant on Bradley Park Drive and say hello to Hariet Zhu. You’ll not only enjoy a great meal but also learn more about the rich traditions of Chinese culture.
From Apron Strings to TV Screens
The Story of Very Vera
Written by Vera Stewart
As a 1971 high school graduate in Macon, my thoughts of graduation and beyond were solely focused on having fun in college. However, my senior year took an unexpected turn when I was placed in the Home Economics department for homeroom. I found myself drawn to arriving at school early, captivated by the influence of Mrs. Catherine Dupree. Her morning preparations to stage the kitchenettes for her lessons fascinated me, and I was figuratively “tied to her apron strings.”
Photo by Peter Frank Edwards
Fast forward to 2024, and I am celebrating 40 years in my career! The evolution of my business has been rooted in the ability to reinvent myself and embrace growth in the Food & Beverage industry. The timeline on the VeryVera website highlights the significant diversification over these four decades, but at the heart of it all is my unwavering passion. When you reflect on your own childhood, do you recall a favorite dish, celebration, or the staging of food? These moments around the dinner table are the memories I cherish and love to showcase through my show and The VeryVera Cooking Camp.
Majoring in Home Economics at the University of Georgia sounded like an easy and fun way to earn a college degree. Little did I know it would include Chemistry, Interior Design, Child Development, and Home Management. Along with my degree, I am proud of the strides UGA has made in establishing a stellar program with graduates who have become pioneers in many fields. I am PROUD TO BE A GEORGIA BULLDOG. As a Bulldog Top 100 recipient and a FACS (Family and Consumer Science) Top 100 honoree, I continue to collaborate with students and graduate interns.
My two cookbooks, Recipes from My Table and Occasions, tell
my story and share every recipe I once kept under wraps. I approached these books with the same passion for perfection I had when shipping or displaying products for a wedding reception.
The VeryVera Show, founded in 2012 as a local Augusta cooking show, became syndicated in 2015, with Columbus, GA (WRBL), following Savannah (WSAV) as our second market. We recently partnered with WLTZ in Columbus for Season 12, securing great time slots and two airings on Saturdays and Sundays. We are thrilled and grateful for this opportunity! Columbus has been incredibly supportive of The VeryVera Show, and we have filmed there twice, gaining many followers in the area.
Vera is excited to be coming back to Columbus to meet and greet her fans of the Very Vera Show. Come out and meet Vera, March 15, 2025 at
