Connect Savannah | November 2, 2022

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IT’S ABOUT ELFIN’ TIME! CONNECT SAVANNAH connectsavannah.com NOVEMBER 2-8 , 2022 GEORGIA NOW LIMITING BURMESE PYTHONS AND OTHER EXOTIC PETS AS OWNERS, BREEDERS SPEAK OUT 8 SAVANNAH IS NOW A HOCKEY TOWN! UNDEFEATED GHOST PIRATES HOST FIRST HOME GAME THE SAVANNAH THEATRE KICKS OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN HILARIOUS FASHION WITH ‘ELF - THE MUSICAL’ 12
125 West River Street On top of the cotton sail hotel OPEN DAILY 11AM TO 11 PM* www.topdeckbar.com *CLOSING HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE Margarita Monday $4 teremana margs thursdays & Sunday Live MUSIC | 6-9 pm Drink specials Wine wednesday Half o Boles tree-fifty tuesday $3.50 beer, titos, RBV, jameson
100% CHANCE OF SNOW! 60 TONS OF SNOW! FUN AND GAMES! SANTA CLAUS & MORE! SATURDAY DEC. 17 2022 10 AM - 5 PM AT SAVANNAH'S HISTORIC KEHOE IRON WORKS 660 E. Broughton St. AT THE 2022 TRUSTEES’ GARDEN CHRISTMAS FESTVAL ONE DAY ONLY! ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES SNOW SLEDDING • TRAIN RIDES • BOUNCE HOUSE • ROCK CLIMBING 23 FOOT CHRISTMAS TREE FOOD TRUCKS • HOT COCOA CHRISTMAS MARKET FEATURING LOCAL VENDORS SANTA CLAUS 10AM - 4PM Advance tickets available at trustees-garden-christmas.eventbrite.com or scan the code to the left Questions? info@trusteesgarden.com EVENT SPONSORS: MAKE PLANS NOW!

AT A GLANCE

WEDNESDAY 11/2

PARKER’S HOUSE DONATION DRIVE 2022

Oliver Maner is partnering with other local law firms to raise funds and collect supplies for Parker’s House at Union Mission. Items needed include: Personal care items (toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant) Bedding (pillows, sheets) Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels) Cleaning supplies (Swiffer products, Lysol cleaners, disinfectant wipes) Undergarments (socks, undershirts) Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets)

Donations of goods can be dropped off at the Oliver Maner office, 218 W. State St., during business hours. The firm will accept donations through Wednesday, Nov. 30.

DUCKPIN BOWLING LEAGUE NIGHT

8 p.m.Moodright’s, 2424 Abercorn St. Moodright’s is Savannah’s first duckpin bowling alley (in quite a while) and cocktail lounge, and its location makes it the closest bowling alley to the historic district.

TRIVIA NIGHT WITH JESS SHAW

Jess Shaw and Kevin Ryan will guide participants through an evening of trivia and self discovery at Service Brewing. Test your trivia knowledge while also competing in interactive challenge rounds to gain extra points. The first place team receives a $100 cash prize. 6:30 p.m. Service Brewing Co., 574 Indian St.. servicebrewing.com.

THURSDAY 11/3

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? (1962)

Jane Hudson (Bette Davis) is an aging child star left to care for her wheelchair-bound sister

NOVEMBER/2-8

HIGHLIGHTED PICKS FROM HOSTESS CITY HAPPENINGS THIS WEEK

To have your event considered for inclusion, please send an email to happenings@connectsavannah.com. Include the event name, date, time, location with address, cost, website address for additional information, and a contact number. The submission deadline is 5PM each Friday before the following Wednesday’s edition.

Blanche (Joan Crawford), also a former child actress. Stuck living together in a mansion in old Hollywood, Blanche plots to get even with Jane for the car crash that left her crippled years earlier. But Jane is desperate to keep Blanche imprisoned as she plans a new rise to fame, and tries to hide Blanche’s existence from doctors, visitors and neighbors while she devises a way to get rid of her sister.Tybee Post Theater | 3PM & 7PM

BINGO! AT ELKS LODGE

Join Elks Lodge for Bingo on Thursdays from 7:30-9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 7-9 p.m. Enjoy great family fun, good food at the snack bar and many chances to win cash. Elks Lodge, 183 Wilshire Blvd. FRIDAY 11/4

ELF THE MUSICAL LIVE ON STAGE

(ONGOING) The Historic Savannah Theatre presents the Broadway stage adaptation of the hit movie which tells the lovable story of Buddy the Elf. It’s both hilarious and heartwarming, and it’s perfect for the whole family. Friday, Nov 4, 8pm, Saturday, Nov 5, 8pm, Sunday, Nov 6, 3pm, 222 Bull Street, 912 233-7764 savannahtheatre.com

BLUEGRASS BY THE PINT WITH SWAMPTOOTH

Join Service Brewing for Bluegrass by the Pint every Friday featuring live bluegrass from local favorites, Swamptooth.6 p.m. Service Brewing Co., 574 Indian St. servicebrewing.com

SATURDAY 11/5

UGA SAVANNAH ALUMNI GAMEWATCHING VS. TENNESSEE

Starland Yard is the OFFICIAL UGA Savannah Alumni Chapter

SAT/5 PUPPY PALS @TYBEE POST THEATER

PM

Game Watching location! Put on your spirited red and black and head to the Savannah chapter’s game watching party to watch the Bulldogs play. These events are free, fun and attended by passionate graduates and fans of the University of Georgia. Parties begin one hour before kickoff. 2411 De Soto Ave. WIN A FOOTBALL SIGNED BY KIRBY SMART! Show up to the party and ask the volunteers running it how to enter!

FORSYTH FARMERS MARKET

Local and regional produce, honey, meat, dairy, pasta, baked goods and other delights. Rain or shine. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Forsyth Park, Drayton St. &

East Park Ave. Free to attend. forsythfarmersmarket.com

FIRE & WINE

Enjoy half off bottles of wine and fire pits in the courtyard. Purchase one of our s’mores kits (marshmallows included) for the ultimate fall experience. 6-9 p.m. Foxy Loxy Cafe, Bull St.

SUNDAY 11/6

SUNSET PARTY SUNDAY

Wrap up the weekend with a Sunday Funday Sunset Party on the roof. Local DJ Doc Ock, an amazing view, Long Drink and Herradura specials, and $3 Rosé all day. 6 - 9 p.m. Top Deck, 125 W. River St

GRAPHIC NOVEL PANEL

Please join us at Service Brewing Co. on Sunday, November 6th at 3pm for beer and a lively discussion on and around the wonderful world of graphic novels. Our panelists include Rashad Doucet, Kit Seaton, and Jamie Jones. There will be a Q&A at the end of the panel. Bring your questions! 3-4PM

TUESDAY 11/8

STAFFORD’S TUESDAY COMEDY OPEN MIC

The ghost of Savannah’s legendary open mic returns. 8:30-11:45 p.m. Stafford’s Public House, 306 W. Upper Factor’s Walk.

5 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 WEEK CONNECT SAVANNAH
Puppy Pals is a family fun action-packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats. Watch as we lead the puppies and audience through challenging and comical tricks as the pooches show everyone who is really boss! Full of surprises and laugh-out-loud canine comedy this performance appeals to children of all ages. 7
| tybeeposttheater.org

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CASSIDI HINSON

OUR VALUES

Connect Savannah is a weekly arts, entertainment and news magazine, focused on Savannah and the Coastal Empire life and experience.

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MEET CINDY ROBINETT

Cindy Robinett is the 2022 United Way Campaign Chair, mother of three, and a partner at Sterling Seacrest Partners.

Born and raised in Savannah, she attended Calvary Day School as a child, then went on to attend the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia, where she earned a degree in risk man agement and insurance.

Robinett first learned about United Way when she first started her career in Atlanta, and has partnered with them since she started with Seacrest Partners.

“I have been involved with the United Way, either as a committee member, board member or in some capacity, prob ably for about 16 years,” said Robinett “ We’ve always been a big contributor to the United Way.”

She has been in insurance for over 30 years, going directly to the insurance industry right out of college, and working in different capacities. She started as a founding partner of Seacrest Partners after her former firm was purchased by a banking organization. A group that worked at her former firm decided they wanted to start their own private ly owned firm. The firm is now named Sterling Secreast Pritchard, after several years and mergers.

“Sterling Seacrest Pritchard is an insurance brokerage and consulting organization and is one of the top 100 of all insurance brokers and agents. I want to say we’re in the top 25 of property held, one of the largest insurance brokers in the southeast. We started about 16 years ago, and now we’re up to about 300 people and have offices throughout the southeast,” said Robinett.

Locally, she is on the Board of Trustees at Savan nah Christian Preparatory School and is a member of the Isle of Hope Methodist Church. These local ties and her connection to Savannah and her love for the people in Savannah, have led her to her work with United Way.

“For me, I have witnessed what difference they can make in our community, and how they’re able to help so many people through their 211 service, which connects people to the resources of a variety of nonprofit agencies. And then also, the fact that they carefully evaluate the nonprofit agencies that they fund and make sure that they are moving the nee dle and making a difference. So you feel like your money is really going to a great cause, and being used,” said Robinett.

The mission of United Way is some thing that Robinett believes in and holds dear to her heart. She is passionate about her position and passionate about help ing people through that position.

“Our mission is improving lives through the caring power of the com munity. It takes every one of us working together to make a difference in our community because some people are able to give and contribute in different ways. Whether it’s financially being a donor, or simply volunteering with the United Way, there are a lot of different ways that people can work together, depending on their abilities to help other people. And then there are certainly those times

As the 2022 United Way Campaign Chair, Robinett has a full plate; however, she has plenty of help from others in the nonprofit organization. In previous years she held the position of Vice Chair of Campaign with Cecilia Russo, and before that she was on the Executive Board of Directors for United Way.

“The purpose of the campaign chair is to raise money for our community fund. The community fund is the vehicle that drives all of our work, including the proceeds from the community fund, which goes to fund the 50 Plus nonprofit agencies, as well as our 211 Call Center and county service centers. My job is to lead that effort,” said Robinett. “I have a full campaign cabinet that works with me, and goes after different business segments, calling on organizations to do employee campaigns, or to offer a corpo rate donation, or to sponsor one of our many events. All of that is to raise money

for the community.”

While the United Way and Insurance are large and important aspects of her life, she also makes time for activities and hobbies outside of work. She is also on the Emeritus Board of the Terry College of Business, at the University of Georgia.

“When I’m not doing insurance or the campaign, I love to cook. I am not a pro fessional chef or anything by all means, but I have written my own cookbook. I also love snow skiing, and just being out on the water under the boat, and reading books,” said Robinett.

The United Way has been a large part of her life. She wants everyone to understand that not only is the United Way helping people, it’s also helping the community.

“You never know when you’re going to need help from the United Way or when someone you know might need help. It’s a big part of our community and defines our community,” said Robinett.

7 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 INTRODUCTIONS:
FROM UGA CHEERLEADER TO A BUSINESS TRENDSETTER, AND NOW THE UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN CHAIR

GEORGIA RESTRICTS OWNERSHIP OF PYTHONS, TEGUS, OTHER REPTILES

DNR rule aims to prevent certain reptiles from establishing breeding populations and spreading parasites

scientific, educational or public exhibition. The rule goes into effect next month.

Burmese pythons have settled into the Florida Everglades and are wiping out native animals. Georgia isn’t taking any chances with repeating that mistake here. Last week, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Board voted to limit fu ture ownership of Burmese pythons, along with Indian rock pythons, Argentine black and white tegus, Nile monitor lizards, Afri can helmeted turtles and Chinese softshell turtles. Current owners in Georgia have 12 months to get their pet snakes, lizards or turtles tagged and registered with the De partment of Natural Resources following the adoption of a rule that limits licensing of these species only to those used for

Python enthusiasts, including a couple who breeds the snakes in Brunswick, spoke passionately against the rule change at the DNR meeting in Richmond Hill.

“We propose a new solution allowing people to register certain species of ani mals that have a proven scientific concern to DNR in regards to ecological and species conservation efforts to allow DNR to track these animals should they escape,” said Justyne Lobello, the president and founder of the Georgia Reptile Society. Lobello owns a 13.5-foot, 180-pound Burmese python named Paula Deen, who serves as an animal ambassador.

“She is requested by name,” Lobello said of her butter-colored pet. “She is very, very famous animal. She has been on National Geographic.”

Brunswick-based John McHugh and his

wife Michelle Watts moved their snake breeding business, Egg Tooth Reptiles, from Florida to Georgia recently specifical ly because the state didn’t have these reg ulations. They estimate they have $100,000 invested in their animals.

“It takes three years and $3,000 just to get a female breeder up to size,” he said.

Watts tearfully pleaded their case to the board. “This is what we love to do,” she said. “These animals are stress relievers.”

But Mike Worley of the Georgia Wildlife Federation doesn’t get the same warm and fuzzy about pythons and tegus and said with invasives threatening 42% of endan gered or threatened species, the regulation was overdue.

“Burmese pythons have absolutely devastated the Everglades and all the liter ature points to two potential sources: the conscious release of pets that became too much for their owners and the accidental or unforeseen release via breeding facility damage,” he said. “Voracious tegu lizards are already established in South Georgia where they’re likely feeding on eggs of our ground nesting birds our native reptiles and virtually anything else that is small enough for them to eat. The risks these in vasives entail is simply too high to allow.”

Argentine black and white tegus, the largest of all tegus, can reach 4 feet long and weigh 10 pounds or more. GaDNR.

Along with the fears of species like tegus establishing breeding populations in Georgia, Burmese pythons can also carry a parasitic lungworm that’s not harmful to them but can kill native species of snakes, said Brett Albanese of the DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section.

McHugh countered that his captive bred snakes don’t carry this disease. He and Watts say the rule will punish responsible owners and breeders, but won’t stop illegal trade.

“These bills don’t do anything,” said a frustrated Watts after the rule change passed. “It’s like me coming into your house and taking your cat because there’s feral cats outside. It doesn’t solve the problem.”

Animals can be sold, transferred and transported within the 12-month period as long as they are tagged and registered before the end of the 12-month period. Importa tion

or breeding of animals won’t be allowed after the effective date of the rule, expect ed to be some time next month.

8
COMMUNITY
This Burmese python was captured in Everglades National Park in Florida, where the invasive snakes have established a large breeding population. Credit: USFWS

SAVANNAH MOVIE STUDIO DEVELOPER SUED

LAWSUIT ALLEGES

SAVANNAH MOVIE STUDIO DEVELOPER BREACHED CONTRACT

A local commercial real estate firm is seeking damages in a breach-of-contract lawsuit filed Oct. 25 against StudioSavan nah, LLC, the developer of the proposed 30-acre sound stage and movie production space, dubbed KAT-5 Studios, in the west ern limits of Savannah.

Savannah-based Development Associ ates, Inc. (DAI) alleges in the complaint that Studio Savannah misrepresented its intentions and refused to abide by the terms of an agreement by cutting DAI out of its role as an investor and developer in the project, in an attempt to divest DAI of its 50-percent equity interest in the project.

Based on StudioSavannah’s misrepre sentations, DAI kept significant capital on the sidelines and passed on other business opportunities with the intent of using the funding to purchase the property for the benefit of the joint venture between the two parties, DAI’s complaint further states.

In addition, DAI says it expended sig nificant capital and resources toward the purchase and development of the project. Such efforts succeed in getting the project “to the starting block” by locating and negotiating the purchase of the property, as well as facilitating StudioSavannah’s ability to promote the project to potential investors, lenders, tenants and industry parties, DAI claims.

In the lawsuit, DAI is seeking damages for the economic harm the company says was caused by StudioSavannah’s alleged “fraud” and “false promises”, along with punitive damages to deter SavannahStu

dios from similar conduct, and all attorney and court costs.

SavannahStudio, a partnership between David Paterson of Arcady Bay Entertain ment and Taylor Owenby of ISP Global Capital, has not responded to requests for comment as Connect Savannah’s publica tion deadline on Friday evening, following Savannah Agenda’s attempt to reach the company via KAT-5 Studios’ online contact form last week.

The lawsuit comes after StudioSavan nah successfully petitioned for a height variance to develop the film production

complex and theater on Savannah’s west ern edge. The petition for a 15-foot height variance from the 45-foot height maximum for the project at 2442 Fort Argyle Road was approved by the Savannah Zoning Board of Appeals on Aug. 26. StudioSavan nah then purchased the property for $1.8 million on Feb. 23, 2022, according to sales records.

The undeveloped 30-acre commercial site is located in New Hampstead, a 4,300acre planned development that is expected to add thousands of single-family and multi-family housing units to the area.

TAPHOUSE, RESTAURANTS PLANNED FOR 31ST AND MLK

A former auto repair garage will be converted for use as a beer taphouse as part of the redevelopment of half a block at 31st Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, according to a plan approved by the Historic Preservation Commission last week.

The plan also includes the reconstruc tion of two demolished garages in their original footprint for use as a restaurant and kitchen to “celebrate the use of the property after the original structures were rendered structurally compromised.” In addition, a brick building on the site will be renovated to house a café, while also retaining the current salon tenant, Hair N Motion, according to the developer.

The renovations and reconstruction project was previously approved in April 2020 and work is already underway, but last week the developer was seeking approval of some minor design amendments, as well as the construction of a public restroom building. The updated plan also includes an outdoor courtyard at the site where a parking lot was previously shown in the 2020 drawings.

9 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
(continued next page)
PROPERTY MATTERS SAVANNAH AGENDA:
Graphic of proposed KAT-5 Studio in west Savannah. StudioSavannah, LLC.
The brick building on the site will be renovated to house a café, while also retaining the current salon tenant, Hair N Motion, according to the developer. Eric Curl/Oct. 22, 2022

SAVANNAH AGENDA: PROPERTY MATTERS (CONTINUED)

A joint venture partnership, 1400 MLK, LLC., purchased the properties for $411,800 in November 2019, according to public records. The development group consists of finance company Cabretta Capital, Chatham Developers, and developer Nick Finland, according to Brent Watts, with Cabretta Capital and Chatham Developers. Finland is also the developer of the luxury apartment complex The Lowe being constructed immediately to the south of the commercial project site. Chatham Developers and Finland are also partners behind a multifamily development, the Addie, being built the next block over to the east. In addition, Watts is the developer behind the ongoing rehabilitation of the historic St. Paul’s Academy building at 315 West 38th St. for use as an apartment building.

NEW FAIR MARKET RENTS REFLECT 17% INCREASE FOR SAVANNAH REGION

Anyone feel like they are paying too much in rent? Now you can flash HUD’s new Fair Market Rents in your landlord’s face. (Admittedly, it probably won’t help.)

HUD, otherwise known as the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, recently used private sector data to determine new Fair Market Rents (FMR), which are used used in several federal housing programs, including housing vouchers and how much they will cover.

Nationally, HUD found that the FMR went up 10 percent, compared to the 2022 fiscal-year rate. In the Savannah Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Bryan, Chatham, and Effingham counties, the FMR increased more than 17 percent for apart ments ranging from efficiencies to 4-bedroom units. (The rents also apply to rental rates for single-family homes, duplexes and multi-family dwelling units that that are not just traditional apartments.)

While reflective of the growing unaffordability of rent throughout Savannah and the nation, HUD’s new rates are actually meant to enable more people with housing vouch ers to access affordable and stable housing by keeping up with the rent increases in the private market. (See chart)

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JAUDON SPORTS:

NO. 1 UGA VS. NO. 2

TENNESSEE IS BIGGEST REG. SEASON GAME OF KIRBY SMART ERA

On Saturday, No. 1 Georgia and No. 2 Tennessee will meet between the hedges for the first ever 1-2 matchup in Sanford Stadium history.

With both teams undefeated and the SEC East driver’s seat at stake, it is the biggest regular season game in recent Georgia history and unquestionably the biggest of the Kirby Smart era. It’s only the third top-five matchup in the history of Sanford (1983 & 1942).

The importance of this one isn’t lost on Smart. The seventh-year head coach issued a challenge to UGA fans during his Monday press conference.

“Our guys are excited and looking forward to a top matchup in Sanford Stadium,” said Smart. “I know our fanbase will be loud and proud. I want to challenge our fans – I mean everyone talks about the Notre Dame game (in 2019) – we want it to be louder than that and we want them to be here earlier than that. We’ve had some big matchups here in the past and I thought (the fans) have really affected those games.

“We’ll need them again. We need them to be ready to go.”

Georgia (8-0, 5-0 SEC) is coming off a 42-20 beat ing of Florida in Jacksonville last weekend and the Bulldogs have knocked off the rival Volunteers in five straight meetings. UGA holds the all-time series advantage, 26-23-2 but this is a different UT team. Tennessee (8-0, 4-0) is fresh off its 44-6 beating of Kentucky in Knoxville last weekend and the Vols are perhaps the hottest team in the country under second-year head coach Josh Heupel.

Behind Heisman Trophy contender Hendon Hooker at quarterback, the UT offense is scoring 49.4 points per game, the most in the country through eight games. Hooker has thrown for 2,338 yards and 21 touchdowns against just one interception. He is com pleting 71% of his passes (156-219) and has rushed for 358 yards and four more scores.

On the other side, UGA’s defense is second in scoring, allowing just 10.5 points per game to opponents. This weekend in Athens, something’s gotta’ give. On Monday, Smart played the “it’s just another game” card in front of the media. That’s expected, but see if you believe this from the UGA coach.

“We don’t prepare for games any differently based on rankings,” he said of the 1-2 matchup. “I didn’t even know the rankings were what they were. It’s a big game, right? There’s nothing about a number being in front of it making it bigger. It’s a big game regard less because both of the teams are in the (SEC) East.”

Suuure Kirby. We believe you. Just another SEC game. Nothing special about this one.

Despite what Smart says, this one is as big as it’ll ever get. By definition, it actually can’t get any bigger than this. No. 1 versus No. 2, in a rivalry game, in your conference, in your division and with plenty of College Football Playoff implications on the line. A Georgia win means the Bulldogs would be a virtual ly lock to return to Atlanta come SEC Championship time next month. A loss would send Bulldog nation into a tailspin and have Smart’s team looking up at the Vols for the remainder of the regular season. It could also keep Georgia out of a potential CFP appearance, and that would mean the entire season was a disappointment, despite what came before or what comes after.

This game means everything and even if he’s not letting on, Smart knows that better than anyone. Georgia opened as a 9-point betting favorite in Las Vegas. Kickoff is set for 3:30 on CBS.

Follow Travis Jaudon on Twitter/Instagram @Jaudon Sports. Email him at travisLjaudon@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY SPORTS
Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Stetson Bennett (13) and head coach Kirby Smart looks on after an interception during the second quarter of the annual Georgia-Floriday game Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022 at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville. The Georgia Bulldogs outlasted the Florida Gators 42-20. | Photo by Corey Perrine/USATSI
11 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022

THE GHOST PIRATE FILE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

WHO: Savannah Ghost Pirates

WHAT: Inaugural ECHL Season

WHERE: Enmarket Arena (6,700)

WHEN: Oct. 22 - April 16 (36 home games; 72 total, plus playoffs)

WATCH: FloHockey.tv

NHL AFFILIATE: Las Vegas Golden Knights

AHL AFFILIATE: Henderson Silver Knights

MORE INFO: GhostPiratesHockey.com

COLORS: Green, Black and White

MASCOT: Davy, the Ghost Pirate

ALL ABOUT THE ECHL

A member of the ECHL, the Ghost Pirates are two steps removed from the National Hockey League (NHL) as an affiliate of the Las Vegas Gold en Knights. Last season, 29 former ECHL players played in their first NHL game and the total number of ECHL players to have played in the NHL is up to 727. In the last 17 sea sons, 471 former ECHL players have played in the NHL.

“The way I describe it to some people who are more familiar with baseball is that (the ECHL) is like the Double-A level in minor league baseball,” said Naas when asked how he would explain what level of hockey the Ghost Pirates are at. “So you have Double-A (Savannah), Triple-A (Henderson) and then the NHL (Las Vegas).”

STANDARD GAME TIMES

Monday – Thursday, Saturday: 7 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 p.m.

Sunday: 3 p.m.

The ECHL is in its 35th season and includes 28 teams split into the Eastern and Western Conferences. Each conference has two sev en-team divisions (North, South, Central, Mountain) and each divi sion’s top-four teams will make the Kelly Cup playoffs where each round is a best-of-seven series.

Savannah is in the Eastern Conference’s South Division alongside the Atlanta Gladiators, Greenville Swamp Rabbits, Jacksonville Icemen, Florida Everblades, South Carolina Stingrays and Orlando Solar Bears. The Everblades are the defending Kelly Cup champions.

HOCKEY IS HERE: Ghost Pirates start fast in inaugural ECHL season

FIRST HOME GAME IS SATURDAY, NOV. 5

Is Savannah a hockey town? Puck yeah it is.

Professional hockey has arrived in exciting fashion and the city’s newest team has started in fine form. The Savannah Ghost Pirates began their first ever season with an overtime win at Greenville on October 22, and they followed that up with a win in Atlanta over the Gladiators on October 23. Last weekend in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Ghost Pirates won in shootouts on Friday night before winning 5-4 in overtime on Saturday.

That’s a 4-0 start. Not bad for the newest team in the ECHL (formerly known as the East Coast Hockey League). Savannah’s home opener is set for Saturday night (Nov. 5) against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits.

Andy Kaufmann is the CEO and majority owner of the expansion franchise which plays its home games in the brand-new Enmarket Arena (seats 7,300 for hockey). The Oak View Group is the company hired by the City of Savannah to manage and operate the arena located on Stiles Avenue.

“We are grateful to the ECHL Board of Governors for awarding us a new membership and we thank Mayor Van R. Johnson, the Savannah City Council and Oak View Group for creating a stunning new venue for us to compete,” said Kaufmann when the deal was announced in January 2021.

“Savannah is a terrific sports town and we look forward to making it a fantastic hockey town.”

Ticket sales indicate Savannah residents were more than ready to embrace hockey as a part of the city’s rich sports history. More than 5,000 ticket packages were pur chased in the first two months of availability. Roughly 3,000 of those were full-sea son tickets and the November 5th home opener sold out quickly.

In May, the team announced Rick Bennett as its first head coach during a press con ference at Enmarket Arena. A native of Springfield, Massachusetts, it was Bennett’s

12 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022

first introduction to Savannah. The 55-year-old former NHL player said he was struck by the city’s excitement for the new team.

“It was overwhelming and really impressive,” Bennett said from Fort Wayne, Indiana during an October 26 phone call with Connect Savannah. “I thought it was really well done and it has continued, you know, everytime we’re at community events it has been nice getting to know some of the people (of Savannah). It’s only the beginning of course, but from the experiences we’ve had so far, it’s all been really impressive.”

Spencer Naas is a 27-year-old forward for the club and the Minnesota native said the city’s response to the team has been noticed by many of the players.

“I think I was a little surprised to be honest,” he said during an October 26 phone call with Connec Savannah. “I really didn’t know what to expect from the fans.

“I’m from Minnesota and up there it’s a hockey hotbed kind of with (hockey) rinks everywhere, like every five miles. And so down here (in Savannah), I didn’t really know what the response would be to hockey and so far, it has been huge. We even saw some fans travel to Greenville and Atlanta to support us and that means a lot to us. Hope fully when we get back (to Savannah) we can return the favor and give the fans a great product.”

Playing the first five games of the season on the road allowed the squad to find its footing before coming home to play five of the next six games at Enmarket.

HOCKEY 101: WHAT ARE WE LOOKING AT, HERE?

The basics of Hockey are simple—you skate, you pass, you shoot and you score. Players move around the ice on skates—boots with a double-edged blade on the bottom—that allow for sharp turns and quick acceleration.

ECHL hockey is played on a standard-size rink shaped like a round-cor nered rectangle that is 200 feet (61 metres) long and 85 feet (26 metres) wide. The goal cage is 4 feet (1.2 metres) high and 6 feet (1.8 metres) wide. Any shot that completely clears the goal line, a 2-inch- (5-cm-) wide stripe on the ice across the front of the cage, is a goal. In front of the goal is the crease, a semicircular area that corresponds to a circle with a 6-foot radius, demarcated by a red line. When the goalie is in the crease, no attacking player may enter unless the puck is there as well; if the goalie is not in the crease, however, anyone may enter. The blue lines that divide the ice into three zones are 60 feet (18 metres) out from the goal line and are painted across the width of the ice. The area between the blue lines is called the neutral zone. This zone is bisected by the red center line.

HOCKEY RINK LAYOUT

As seen in the graphic below, there are different colored lines, as well as circles. As would be expected, each of these has significance, and have at least one rule tied to how it affects the game.

1: CENTER ICE/FACE-OFF CIRCLE: The face-off circle at center ice is where the puck is put in play (dropping the puck) by the referee at the start of each period and after a goal is scored. During the dropping of the puck, only one player from each team may be in the center ice circle. Once the puck is dropped, however, teammates from both teams can enter this area to assist in controlling the puck for his team.

2: NEUTRAL ZONE: The area between the blue lines indicating each teams’ defensive zone.

3: NEUTRAL ZONE FACE-OFF DOTS: Four dots in the neutral zone where a linesman can drop the puck after a stoppage of play.

4: BLUE LINE: A solid blue line span ning the width of the ice indicates the border between the neutral zone and a given team’s defensive zone.

5: SLOT: The area directly in front of the goaltender, between the two defensive zone face-off circles. The “high slot” is an area of the slot that is farthest away from the goal, closer to the blue line.

6: OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE ZONE FACE-OFF CIRCLES: Two large circles in a given team’s zone where a linesman can drop the puck to restart play. There are four on the ice; two in a team’s offensive zone and two in that team’s defensive zone. Given that each team has an offensive zone and a defensive zone, there are only four of these circles on the ice. I must state the obvious that one team’s defensive zone is the other team’s offensive zone.

7: GOAL LINE: The red line spanning the width of the ice on which the goal sits in each zone.

8: TRAPEZOID: The area directly be hind the goal in which it is permissible for the goaltender to touch the puck.

9: GOAL/NET: Goals sit on the center of each goal line in a team’s defensive zone.

10: CREASE: The area directly in front of each goal. This area is painted blue.

Sources: Britannica.com, howtheyplay. com, ECHL.com, USAHockey.com

13 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022

The Southeast Georgia Leadership Forum has opened the scholarship application pro cess for the 2023 Forum to be held February 27-28, 2023, at Kehoe Iron Works at Trustees Garden.

To ensure the Forum includes emerging, established and diverse leaders from civic groups, non-profits, neighborhoods, gov ernment, and businesses, scholarships are available so all community leaders have an opportunity to attend.

With its core mission being to include, listen, learn, act and grow, the Forum was founded to help our region address gen erational systemic poverty, isolated silos of community and communication, while moving the community forward towards excellence and growth opportunities for all.

The scholarship selection committee is composed of a diverse group of community volunteers who are interested in identifying leaders who would benefit from the forum but may not have the ability to afford the attendance fee. Applicants can be nominat ed by others or by themselves. The number of scholarships is limited, and recipients will be notified by the selection committee no later than February 2, 2023.

To apply for a scholarship, visit southeas tleadershipforum.com

AAA: GEORGIA PUMP PRICES LIKELY TO KEEP FALLING

Georgia gas price average continues to decline. Georgia drivers are now paying an average price of $3.15 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline (subject to change over night). Monday’s state average is 5 cents less than a week ago, 3 cents less than a month ago, and 9 cents less than this time last year. It now costs $47.25 to fill a 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline. Drivers are now paying almost $2.00 less to fill-up at the pump compared to a year ago.

“Georgians may not experience price reductions at the grocery store due to infla tion but can definitely appreciate savings at the pump,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “As long as demand remains low and there is no uptick in crude oil prices, drivers may continue to see savings at the pump.”

LIVE OAK PUBLIC LIBRARIES ANNOUNCES FINALIST FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Search Committee of the Live Oak Public Libraries Regional Board of Trustees announces Lola Shelton-Council as sole finalist for the position of Library Executive Director.

Shelton-Council has been serving as Interim Director at Live Oak Public Libraries (LOPL) since January 2022. She joined LOPL as Director of Library Experiences in July 2021. Prior to her arrival at Live Oak Public Libraries, she was Director of Trails Regional Library in Missouri.

Shelton-Council has worked in various

capacities in libraries for more than 25 years. She holds a Master of Science in Library and Information Sciences from the University of Wisconsin, a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Rutgers University.

The Regional Board of Library Trustees will vote on Shelton-Council’s candidacy at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Re gional Board on November 15, 2022 at 5:00 PM at Forest City Library.

SCAD SAVANNAH FILM FESTIVAL 2022 COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

The Savannah College of Art and Design announces the award winners for the 25th annual SCAD Savannah Film Festival. A key stop on the festival circuit leading up to the Academy Awards, the 2022 SCAD Savannah Film Festival screened 143 films, including 53 narrative feature films, 20 documentary feature films, and 79 shorts, with eight world premieres and six U.S. premieres. 21 awards were announced from the 81 films chosen to compete across eight categories: Narrative Features, Documen tary Features, Professional Shorts, Animat ed Shorts, Documentary Shorts, Student Shorts, Global Shorts Forum, and Shorts Spotlight.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETITION

Best Animated Short – New Moon, direct ed by Jeremie Balais, Jeff LeBars, and Raul Domingo

Best Documentary Feature – Sam Now, directed by Reed Harkness

Best Documentary Short – The Flagmak ers, directed by Cynthia Wade and Sharon Liese

Best Professional Short – North Star, directed by P.J. Palmer

Best Narrative Feature – Pinball – The Man Who Saved the Game, directed by Aus tin Bragg and Meredith Bragg

Best Director – Reed Harkness, Sam Now Best Editing – Butterfly in the Sky, edited by Bradford Thomason

Jury Award for Animation Excellence –Black Slide, directed by Uri Lotan.

Narrative Features: Jury Award for Best Ensemble Cast – The Big Bend, directed by Brett Wagner

Documentary Features: Jury Award for Excellence in Inspirational Storytell ing – Afghan Dreamers, directed by David Greenwald

Documentary Features: Jury Award for Excellence in Cinematography – Crows are White, directed by Ahsen Nadeem Professional Shorts: Jury Award for Come dic Excellence – Miss Patti, directed by Kate Hamilton and Grasie Mercedes

Documentary Shorts: Jury Award for Pow erful Storytelling – Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices from a Plantation Prison, directed by Cinque Northern

STUDENT COMPETITION

Best Student Short – This Wild Abyss, directed by Thomas Mendolia

Best Student Animation – The Soloists, directed by Mehrnaz Abdollahinia, Feben Elias Woldehawariat, Razahk Issaka, Celeste Jamneck, and Yi Liu

Student Shorts Jury Award for Artistic Excellence – Maayanagri (A City of Dreams), directed by Sourab Reddy*

GLOBAL SHORTS FORUM

Global Shorts: Best of Show – Wax and Wane, directed by Beidi Wang

Best Global Short: Of The Land – Mul sotan — The Rooted, directed by Janantik Shukla*

Best Global Short: XX – Hysterical, direct ed by April Moreau

Global Shorts: Jury Award for Artistic Ex cellence – Murmurs of the Jungle, directed by Sohil Vaidya

Global Shorts: Jury Award for Unique Sto rytelling – Feeling the Apocalypse, directed by Chen Sing Yap

SHORTS SPOTLIGHT

Shorts Spotlight: Best of Show – Burros, directed by Jefferson Stein

Shorts Spotlight Best Short: Amusing Perspectives – Chasin’ Butterflies, directed by Joshua Harding,* Adam Hobbs, and Matt Klug.

Shorts Spotlight Best Short: Person First – Murder Tongue, directed by Ali Sohail Jaura

*SCAD student or alum

Three SCAD alums earned awards in the festival’s short film categories: Sourab Reddy (B.F.A., film and television, 2022), for his film Maayanagri (A City of Dreams); Janantik Shukla (M.A., film and television, 2009), for his film Mulsotan — The Rooted; and Joshua Harding (B.F.A., photography, 2009), for his film Chasin’ Butterflies.

The 2022 festival’s professional jury members included award-winning writer and director Alison Anders, Crime Story Media founder Kary Antholis, Vanity Fair writer David Canfield, The Hollywood Re porter writer Mia Galuppo, and Mad Solar president Karina Manashil.

CHATHAM COUNTY TO PARTICIPATE IN STATEWIDE TORNADO DRILL

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency will conduct the biannual statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, November 2 at 9:30 AM.

In conjunction with the drill, the Cha tham County Emergency Management Agency will test the county’s Emergency Warning Siren System this week.

DETAILS:

At 9:30 Wednesday morning, resi dents across Chatham County will hear a one-minute emergency tone from the various sirens located throughout the County. This test is necessary to ensure that the Emergency Warning Siren System is functioning properly.

To learn more about the Chatham County Emergency Warning Siren System, please visit our website at ChathamEmergency.org.

14 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 KITCHEN OPEN LATE WE OPEN EARLIEST: DAILY AT 10AM! 21 E MCDONOUGH ST, SAVANNAH, GA 31401 M–SAT 10AM TO 3AM | SUN 10AM TO 2AM WWW.MCDONOUGHSLOUNGE.COM HALF PRICED APPS, $3 WELLS $4 GEORGIA & DOMESTIC DRAFTS $5 JAMESON & FIREBALL HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 2PM-6PM TUESDAY TRIVIA @7PM @9PM OPEN JAM HOSTED BY ERIC CULBERSON KARAOKE THURSDAY-MONDAY @9PM MONDAY POKER @7PM KARAOKE! @9PM WEDNESDAY ERIC CULBERSON LIVE BLUES @9PM SOUTHEAST GEORGIA LEADERSHIP FORUM OPENS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS
COMMUNITY NEWS & NOTES

PETS OF THE WEEK

PETS OF THE WEEK

Each week, we will highlight pets available for adoption from local rescue organizations. This week we are featuring Coastal Pet Rescue.

Each week, we will highlight pets available for adoption from local rescue organizations. In September, we are featuring the Humane Society of Greater Savannah.. Compiled by Cassidi Hinson

ADDIE

Compiled by Cassidi Hinson

OFFSET

AGE: 2-3 YO

WEIGHT: 10-25LBS

AGE: 8 MONTHS OLD

COLORS: BLACK & WHITE

WEIGHT: 83LBS

COLOR: BROWN

Very goofy boy who loves to play and be in the water. Very large and has no control over how big he is so basic obedience training would be a good tool for him. He loves other dogs and really just a ball of energy!

Addie found her way to CPR (along with her litter of four kit tens) back in October after being found by a volunteer. Her kittens have all been adopted, and now Addie is waiting to find her own home. She would definitely ben efit from a quieter home and a kind, patient person who respects her shyness while still giving her the attention and affection she needs. Once she gets to know you well, she can be outgoing and lov ing, but that takes her some time. Like most cats, she appreciates a soft bed and regular meals, and a good scratch behind the ear. She likes to perch and watch the ac tivity around her, and would love a spot by the window where she can do just that while she soaks up some sun.

BUDDY

BRUTUS

AGE: 10 MONTHS OLD

AGE: 3 YEARS OLD

WEIGHT: 50 - 75 LBS

WEIGHT: 8LBS

COLORS: BRINDLE

COLOR: BLACK AND WHITE

Humane Society for Greater Savannah envisions a community that understands, values and promotes the ways in which pets enrich our lives.

humanesocietysav.org

Brutus is our medical miracle having gone through multiple surgeries for eye and tooth repair, He is also on a special diet because of chronic kidney disease. This, however, does not slow him down. He absolutely loves to snuggle with people and children and is extremely affectionate. He loves other cats, and we believe he will do just fine with dogs.

Buddy is a big, beautiful, affectionate puppy (yes; puppy)! He and his brother, Hobbs, were adopted together as babies, but have found their way back to rescue. Buddy already knows a few basic com mands – like “sit.” While he’s good on a walk, he is strong and will need someone who can manage him and work with him on more leash training. He is still a playful puppy and has some anxiety if left alone – particularly if crated. This guy likes to be active, so an active family where he can get lots of exercise would be perfect. Buddy will also need a secure, fenced in yard. Again; he’s already a big boy, and not done growing, so we want to be sure he keeps that puppy energy (and anxiety) in check.

Last week in this space we gave you a list of nearly a dozen new eateries on the horizon in and around Savannah with a promise that there would be more.

There are always more. It is certainly not the plan here to do a play-by-play every week of upcoming restaurants, but we found out about this one after press time. It is very much worthy of a mention simply because of what it means for the neighborhood where it is being built.

Their popularity certainly cannot be ques tioned. Now you will have a new spot to grab some grub from 520 Wings.

Owner Gary Gordon confirmed a story first reported by Savannahagenda.com that the popular ‘wing shack’ is about to begin the build out of a building near the corner of Waters Ave. and 36th Street in Savannah. Early on it will be a ‘drive thru and take out only’ location with eventual plans for more.

“We are really excited about this loca tion.” Gordon said. “With the city buying the shopping center across the street, we think there will eventually be continued growth over there.”

The neighborhood he refers to has been seeing slow development over the last couple of years. A handful of businesses have begun to move in to the Waters Ave nue corridor stretching from Victory Drive north to Wheaton Street.

16 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
FOOD & DRINK EAT IT AND LIKE IT
EAT IT & LIKE IT PRESENTED WEEKLY BY SAVANNAH TECHNICAL COLLEGE NEW 520 WINGS SPOT ALSO: REGIONAL FOOD AND EVENT ROUNDUP 520 WINGS An equal opportunity institution. SavannahTech.edu/BigPig Feed six for $150 order by: Nov. 10 | pick up: Nov. 17 Meal includes: Smoked Sausage, Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin, 3 Gourmet Sides, 2 Sauces, Potato Rolls & Banana Caramel Mile High Cake

The signs are all there for continued growth.

Waters Cafe began the build out of a new eatery at Waters and 40th streets a few blocks away. That effort is being led by Clinton Edminster, owner of the very popular Starlandia Art Supply story on Bull Street.

The 520 Wings location will be their third in Savannah, to include their flagship at Bull St. and Victory Dr., and 520 Lounge on Abercorn St. It’s their fourth if you include the 520 outlet at the brand new Enmarket Arena.

The build out appears to be a signifi cant operation. It will likely take several months to execute. It is still great news for the neighborhood.

OTHER QUICK BITES FROM THE FOOD SCENE:

Savannah Technical College is hold ing their annual Big Pig Fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Patrick Ansley Williams Scholarship Fund. It includes two meats, six sides, sauces, breads and desserts. The deadline to order is Novem ber 10th. Find the order form at savan nahtech.edu/big-pig

If the drive doesn’t bother you, The Hil ton Head Island Oyster Festival is one of the best in the region. It is coming up on November 12th at Celebration Park on the Southern end of the island. Tickets are $10 to get in plus food from dozens of vendors. Find more information at hiltonheadoysterfestival.com

Thursday night, November 3, we will be at Java Burrito on Broughton Street in Savannah for a special evening. Talkin’ food with Jesse Blanco will include a candid conversation about our food scene, lots of Q&A and discussions and the unveiling of the cover of my upcom ing book “Savannah Food Crawls” due out next Summer. Tickets are $24 which includes tax and gratuity. They include wine and munchies provided by Java Burrito in their downstairs event space. More info and link for tickets at EatItan dLiket.com

COCKTAIL OF THE

PEA FLOWER FIZZ

ENJOY AT: WATER WITCH TIKI 2220 Bull St.

MADE WITH: Pea Flower Gin, Lemon, Simple Syrup, Soda Water

Water Witch Tiki is a Bull St. bar with a tropical vibe serving up tasty tiki drinks that’ll transport you to paradise. One such cocktail is the Pea Flower Fizz. Combining Pea Flower Gin with a few simple ingredients, this drink is as pretty as it is palate pleasing.

The Pea Flower Fizz is bright and refreshing with a beautiful purple hue. It’s garnished with lemon and perfect to enjoy after a hard day of work. Escape to Water Witch Tiki and try this delicious and delightful cocktail soon.

FOOD TRUCK OF THE WEEK

STRANGE BIRD

Strange Bird is a local food truck that brings big, bold flavors to the Lowcountry. Their rotating menu features delicious handhelds like sandwiches, burgers and hotdogs. They also deliver Latin American flair in the forms of tacos and picadas.

You can’t go wrong with the Strange Chicken Sandwich, which features sweet chili jam, coleslaw and pickled tomatillos. With sweet heat and a slight sourness, the chicken sandwich is truly the best of both worlds.

The tacos don’t disappoint either. You can get three for just $14, which is a steal. Options include chicken poblano, pork carnitas and beef barbacoa. The tacos are served on a crispy corn tortilla with vegetable escabeche and salsa verde along with cilantro and lime.

Finally, acting on a tip, I had dinner last week at Los Compas Authentic Taqueria (above) on Ogeechee Road near Chatham Parkway. I won’t go so far as to say they are Savannah’s best tacos, but the meal was very very good, which included the best black beans I’ve had in Savannah. Easy.

It’s a good looking space in a convenient location. I would highly recommend it. The breakfast menu looks fantastic. I cannot wait to try that.

17 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 NEW 520 WINGS LOCATION
WEEK
by Chantel Britton by Chantel Britton
18 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 french toast brioche style HEY, EARLY BIRDS! now serving brunch at OAK 36 featuring reservations + menus online oakthirtysix.com OPEN AT 10AM SATURDAY & SUNDAY FOR BRUNCH! Presented By Sponsored By Register Today! uwce.org/stuffingThanksgiving Day at Daffin Park 106.9 NEW COUNTRY BOB UNITED WAY

SAVANNAH THEATRE KICKS OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN HILARIOUS FASHION WITH ELF THE MUSICAL

The 2003 film, “Elf,” which starred Will Ferrell as “Buddy the Elf’’ is a household Christmas classic. “Elf the Musical” is based on the popular motion picture. For those in Savannah Nov. 4-27, the musical will be performed live at the historic Sa vannah Theatre, featuring a plethora of local Savannah talent.

“Everything we do at the theater is an attempt to entertain our audiences so that they can have two hours of fun and forget any other tensions that they might be feeling. There’s no better show than ‘Elf’ to do that,” said Meece. “It was one of our most popular shows in our 20 years of being here, and producing shows at the the ater. We just thought this was a great time to have another fun show,” said Michael Meece, director of the musical.

Thus, plans were put into motion to bring back the popular production. Running at the Savannah Theatre for a total of 18 performances, featuring a local cast that Meece is especially proud of.

“There are quite a few locals that are in the show. I’m really proud of them, there are really talented people here. Some have been in some of our shows before, but they’re not just locals that wanted to be in a play, they are very successful around the world and they are very professional,” said Meece.

“This was a Broadway production so they already transitioned the movie into the stage version of it, and it follows the storyline pretty closely. All of the scenes are still there, people who are what you call aficionados of the movie will not miss any of their favorite lines, they’re all in the stage version,” said Meece.

F. Michael Zaller was cast as “Buddy the Elf,”the titular character. Zaller has been at the Savannah Theatre over the past 20 years, in numerous shows, including the previous production of Elf the Musical in 2019, where he also played “Buddy.” He received high praise from Meece, for his performance capabilities.

“Will Ferrell and ‘Elf’ are synonymous. I would challenge anybody to come to the show and see if I’m wrong, that this is the closest impersonation to Will Ferrell you’re gonna find anywhere. He [Zaller] embodies all of the same charm and comic timing, as Will Ferrell,” said Meece.

Zaller is excited to jump back into character and play “Buddy the Elf.”

“It’s a tricky thing as an actor, some actors will want to approach a role and not do it anything like people have done it before. I feel like when you get an iconic role, such as ‘Buddy the Elf,’ that everyone knows and loves, you’ve got to give it a homage to it,” said Zaller. “What I try to do is just embody the joy and the energy that Will Ferrell brought to it.”

Will Ferrel is no easy act to follow, which Zaller understands, and has practiced in-depth to be able to perform as “Buddy the Elf,” and do the role justice.

“It is one of the most difficult roles I’ve ever done. They took a movie that has Will Ferrell in every scene, and they converted it to the stage. He is in almost every scene, it’s a marathon, it takes endurance,” said Zaller.

What should the audience expect? Well… if you have to ask…

“I would just say knowing from doing the show before, the way people walk out of this show, it’s just so fun, and the energy and the joy. People from five years old to 95 years old, all come out with a smile on their faces. It’s been a pleasure. It’s just wonderful seeing people’s reaction to the show,” said Zaller.

For more information, tickets, and showtimes, visit savannahtheatre.com

19 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 MUSICAL THEATRECULTURE
F. Michael Zaller as ‘Buddy the Elf’ in
‘Elf The Musical.’ | Photo
by Adriana Iris Boatwright

BOOKS

BOOKS

WHAT ARE WE READING?

WHAT ARE WE READING?

PRESENTED AND CURATED WEEKLY BY E.

PRESENTED AND CURATED WEEKLY BY E. SHAVER, BOOKSELLER

THE STARS DID WANDER DARKLING BY COLIN MELOY

The story of a man named Gil who walks from New York to Arizona to recover from a failed love. After he arrives, new neighbors move into the glass-walled house next door and his life begins to mesh with theirs. In this warmly textured, drily funny, and philosophical account of Gil’s unexpected devotion to the family, Millet explores the uncanny territory where the self ends and community begins―what one person can do in a world beset by emergencies.

All of a sudden, the most ordinary things have taken on a sinister edge: a penny on a doormat. An odd man in a brown suit under a streetlamp. The persistent sound of an ax chopping in the middle of the night.

He keeps telling himself that this is Seaham, a sleepy seaside town where nothing ever happens. Or at least nothing did, until his dad’s construction company opened up the cliff beneath the old— some say cursed—Langdon place.

A novel that asks: In the shadow of existential threat, where does hope live?

Soon, though, he and his friends can’t deny it: more and more of the adults in town are acting strangely. An ancient, long-buried evil has been unleashed upon the community, and it’s up to the kids to stop it before it’s too late. . . .

DEAD MAN’S HAND

On the streets of Boston, the world is divided into the ordinary Usuals, and the paranormal Unorthodox. And in the Department of Un orthodox Affairs, the Auditors are the magical elite, government-sanctioned witches with spells at their command and all the power and prestige that comes with it. Grimshaw Griswald Grimsby is…not one of those witches.

When the world is still counting the cost of the Second World War and the Iron Curtain has closed, eleven-year-old Roland Baines’s life is turned upside down. Two thousand miles from his mother’s protective love, stranded at an unusual boarding school, his vulnerability attracts piano teacher Miss Miriam Cornell, leaving scars as well as a memory of love that will never fade.

Now, when his wife vanishes, leaving him alone with his tiny son, Roland is forced to confront the reality of his restless existence. As the radiation from Chernobyl spreads across Europe, he begins a search for answers that looks deep into his family history and will last for the rest of his life.

After flunking out of the Auditor training program and being dismissed as “not De partment material,” Grimsby tried to resign himself to life as a mediocre witch. But he can’t help hoping he’ll somehow, some way, get another chance to prove his skill. That op portunity comes with a price when his former mentor, aka the most dangerous witch alive, is murdered, and Grimsby becomes the number one suspect.

LORD OF THE FLY FEST BY GOLDY MOLDAVSKY

FIVE TUESDAYS IN WINTER BY LILY KING

Rafi Francisco needs a splashy case to put her true-crime podcast on the map. Her plan? Land an interview with Fly Fest headliner River Stone, who rocketed to stardom after his girlfriend’s mysterious disappearance―and expose him as the killer she’s sure he is.

Told in the intimate voices of complex, endearing characters, Five Tuesdays in Winter intriguingly subverts expectations as it explores desire, loss, jolting violence, and the inexorable tug toward love at all costs. A reclusive booksell er begins to feel the discomfort of love again. Two college roommates have a devastating middle-aged reunion. A proud old man rages powerlessly in his granddaughter’s hospital room. A writer receives a visit from all the men who have tried to suppress her voice.

But when Rafi―and the hordes of influenc ers―arrive at Fly Fest, the dreamy Caribbean getaway they were promised turns out to be a nightmare. Soon, Rafi is fighting for her life against power-hungry beauty gurus and spotty WiFi. And, as she gets closer to River, she discovers that his secrets might have even bigger consequences than she suspected.

Romantic, hopeful, brutally raw, and unsparingly honest, this wide-ranging collection of ten se lected stories by one of our most accomplished chroniclers of the human heart is an exciting addition to Lily King’s oeuvre of acclaimed fiction.

20 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 326 Bull Street Behind the Desoto Historic Downtown Savannah 912.234.7257 eshaverbooks.com Savannah’s Independent Bookstore since 1975 offering a selection of fiction, nonfiction, regional, and children’s books
SHAVER, BOOKSELLER

ART PATROL

“TWO ROADS”: TOM CURRAN Cedar House Gallery

November 2-8, 2022 (Opening reception Nov. 4 from 5-8 PM)

Enjoy a local art show focused on natural forms created with pencils and paint.

“LOOK!” Sulfur Studios

November 4, 2022- December 17, 2022

This show brings together many of Savannah’s local artists under one roof for an unforgettable art experience!

ART ON BULL: 2ND ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR ARTS SOUTHEAST! SULFUR STUDIOS

November 4, 2022; 5-9 PM

This event is a celebration of art that includes live performances, art exhibitions, food, and more! It is a great local event that supports the local arts community.

PETE SCHULTE

Laney Contemporary Fine Art

November 4, 2022 through January 14, 2023

Visitors will enjoy a thoughtful drawing exhibition focused on abstract ideas such as time, perception, and thought.

8

Laney Contemporary Fine Art November 4, 2022 through January 14, 2023

Viewers will experience a philosophical contemporary art exhibition created by a group of female artists.

SHIN JINSONG: “WAITING FOR A RESPONSE WHICH WE MIGHT NEVER GET”

SCAD Museum of Art

Through January 2, 2023

Experience a thoughtful exhibit on the rapidly changing world in the modern age through fascinating sculptural work.

SEHER SHAH AND RANDHIR SINGH: “STUDIES IN FORM”

SCAD Museum of Art

Through December 26,

Viewers will take in an exhibit focusing on architecture using cyanotype, “an early photographic process and precursor to the blueprint.”

“THE DOG SHOW” SCAD Museum of Art Through Dec. 26.

A great exhibition for Savannah’s dog lovers! This art collection focuses on the characteristics of our canine friends in a variety of mediums.

MARIA NEPOMUCENO: “DENTRO E FORA INFINITAMENTE”

SCAD Museum of Art Through Dec. 26.

Experience sculpture derived from traditional Brazilian straw weaving techniques combined with other materials including beads, ceramic, and more.

“STUDIES IN FORM”

Seher Shah and Randhir Singh SCAD Museum of Art Through Dec. 26.

Viewers will take in an exhibit focusing on architecture using cyanotype, “an early photographic process and precursor to the blueprint.”

ANNA PARK: “LAST CALL”

SCAD Museum of Art Through Jan. 2, 2023

Experience Anna Park’s large scale charcoal drawings that exist in a blended style of abstraction and figuration.

“AARON DOUGLAS: SERMONS”

SCAD Museum of Art Through Dec. 31.

The exhibition looks at celebrated artist, Aaron Douglas, from the Harlem Renaissance era and displays modern artists’ work alongside his to display his lasting influence.

GISELA COLÓN: “THE FEMINIST DIVINE”

SCAD Museum of Art

Through Jan., 2023

A perfect exhibition for 3D art enthusiasts. The work showcases invented design features and construction of sculptures influenced by the natural world.

ROXY PAINE: “SEDIMENTARY LENS”

SCAD Museum of Art

Through Jan. 2, 2023

Roxy Paine displays her large scale sculptures that dive into topics such as the natural world and human actions.

ALLISON SCHULNIK: “OMINOUS, CRUDE BEAUTY’’

SCAD Museum of Art

Through Jan. 16, 2023

A truly unique claymation based exhibition that will fulfill any macabre art lover’s interests.

DECONSTRUCTED Jepson Center

Through Nov. 27.

Experience an art exhibit focused on the art of the American Southeast from the 20th and 21st century. An amazing opportunity to learn about the culture of the Southeast through visual art.

GOTHIC SOUL: CHARLES MERYON Jepson Center

Through Jan. 8, 2023

Come see the revealing exhibit that focuses on the art and life of Charles Meryon, a French artist who specialized in black and white etchings after finding that he was colorblind. This is an amazing opportunity to step back in time and view a celebrated artist of the 19th century.

ELEGIES: STILL LIFES IN CONTEMPORARY ART

A group exhibition bringing together an international collection of artists who have disrupted or extended the traditional presentation of still lifes. The artists have appropriated the genre in order to create works within a framework of Black diasporic identities, histories, and collective experiences. Jepson Ctr.

JOSÉ RAY IN THE DRIVE THRU ART BOX

The Drive Thru Art Box at Green Truck Pub. 2430 Habersham St

ThroughDecember 8 sulfurstudios.org/drivethruart

Happy Hour Artist Talk: Thurs. Oct. 13, 6 - 8 PM at Green Truck Pub. José Ray is working on transparent plexi-glass with mixed media and light to create an engaged and fantastical landscape. During the day, the elements will be illuminated from the outside by natural light and passing reflections. At night, the elements will glow from within and dance with the splendor of Fall.

TWO ROADS: WORK IN PAINT AND PENCIL

Cedar House Gallery will host an opening reception of ‘Two Roads: Work in paint and pencil’ by Tom Curran on Friday, November 4, from 5-8:00 p.m | 122 E. 36th St. cedarhousegal lerysav.com Instagram @tomcurransav

SAVANNAH GALLERY OF ART ACCEPTING ENTRIES

The Savannah Gallery of Art is now accepting entries for their 2nd Annual Juried Exhibit with $2,000 in cash prizes, including a $1,000 Crystal Beer Parlor Best of Show Award. Entry deadline is November 10th. Visit savannahgalleryofart. com for prospectus and entry details. An Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony will be held at the gallery, located at 304 E. Bryan Street in Savannah’s Historic District, on Friday, December 9 from 6 - 8 p.m. Call (912) 631-0616 for more information.

SOY X SOY

Savannah Cultural Arts Center

Through Dec. 3 SOY X SOY (x=como), ‘I Am Who/What I Am,’ is a collective of Latin, Hispanic and Native American creatives working together to curate a variety of experiences through a series of artistic engagements, including but not limited to exhibitions, performance, culinary arts and installations.El Salón

“FEELS LIKE FREEDOM”: PHILLIP J. HAMPTON Jepson Center

Date & Time: Through January 29, 2023

This exhibition takes viewers through the entire career of the late painter Phillip J. Hampton.

The varied work includes everything from abstract to illustrative realism, many of which were created in Savannah.

21 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
CONNECT SAVANNAH To submit an ART PATROL listing, please enter an event at connectsavannah.com

WILLIAM CLARK GREEN: LIVING LIFE OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Growing up, William Clarke Green had heard stories about the Baker Hotel in the little Texas town of Mineral Wells. a couple hundred miles away from his home in tiny Flint.

Going to college at Texas Tech in the far larger Lubbock, Green encountered more and more tales of the mysterious hotel, stories that triggered him to get out a pen and guitar.

“I’ve lived in that area for so many years, you kind of hear of all that stuff, all the ru mors, all the stuff about it being haunted,” he said. “All my buddies jumped off the hotel. I thought it would be cool to write a Norman Rockwell type All American story where these kids break into this hotel. It took years and years, but last year I got it done.”

Not only did Green write and record the song. He created a treatment for a video that’s become an online attention-grabber.

“The video’s just following the song, doing our best to visualize it,” Green said. “We wrote a template, then our video guy put it together...We were able to shoot the video in the hotel....The lead contractor for the remodel ended up being a huge fan of ours. It just kind of worked out. We weren’t expecting any access. There’s all kinds of liability with all the construction and everything. But they let us in and we got to do everything we wanted.”

That video has had thousands of views and hundreds of comments, which came as something of a surprise to Green.

“It’s definitely off the beaten path,” he said of the hotel. “It’s not on the way to any where. But we’ve gotten so many comments from people about how they broke in when they were kids or how they’ve heard those stories, so it’s gotten some attention.”

“Baker Hotel” is title cut of Green’s sixth album that’s another showcase for Green’s hard-to-pigeonhole Americana, with styles that run from country and singer/songwriter folk to rock ‘n’ roll.

““I’m just trying to be as creative as possible,” Green said. “The same-feeling song after the same-feeling song is dull to me. That’s what we’ve always done is just try to be different than what everyone else is doing…I want it to be different, so that’s a (com mercial) sacrifice. As a fan, I understand. When I hear a Chris Knight record, I want to hear a Chris Knight record. But as an artist, I can’t do that.”

But Green’s drive to be different and his determined independence that has him releasing music on his Bill Grease Records and running his career has put him in a position to succeed – by constant touring for 15 years, spreading out from Texas to the Midwest and then the rest of the country.

“When record sales went to s***, record labels started doing 360 degree deals, taking some of the touring and merch,” Green said. “We’ve always had the model where you go tour and sell merch. Our business model is set up perfectly…

“Now all the songwriters in Nashville, if you want to work with them, you have to give points on the record. The money’s dried up. It’s all touring. It’s all merch. What’s amaz ing is it puts all the power in the fan. For guys like me, it’s amazing. We used to worry about labels and radio. Now we’ve got as much playing field as the big guys do.”

Being independent, Green said, suits him just fine – even if his musical and business choices alienate some fans and the industry.

“I don’t want anybody telling me what to do and how to do it,” he said. “That’s a sac rifice I’m willing to make.”

The playing field that Green talks about is, of course, is the road, to which Green and his band returned as quickly as possible after being sidelined by the pandemic.

“We were in New York City the day that COVID hit and the roof came down. We just haven’t been back since 2020. Now we’re actually able to get back to it...You’ve got to work. You can’t sit home. You’ve got to work.”

William Clark Green plays District Live at Plant Riverside District on Thu., Nov. 3, 8 p.m. ticketmaster.com

22 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
MUSIC & CLUBS

Like many musicians, the pandemic forced Mat Kearney to do something he had rarely done during the preceding decade plus as a recording artist – take time off.

“I pretty much jumped on a rocket ship in 2007 and spent a lot of the years since then just touring or I’d be in the middle of a project or grinding in the studio all night,” Kearney said in a recent phone interview. “It was the first time I’d really had a chance to just stop and take stock of where I was at and focus on home in a way I hadn’t. It ended up being kind of, I almost feel guilty saying it, but a really beautiful season.”

One of the great things that happened was Kearney and his wife had their second child.

The pandemic also gave Kearney plenty of time to think about his next album, which became the recently released “January Flower,” and ask himself big questions like what kind of music he wants to make and what matters most to him about his music.

“I don’t know a simple way to answer that question because at the core, it’s kind of a journey as a human I’ve been on, reconnecting to myself outside of music,” Kearney said. “Who am I? If the music goes away, what are you? What do you have to say? What have you always had to say? What is something that you’ve always loved? And I think the longer you do this, the more voices enter the picture of ‘Oh, is this commercial?’ Will it (work) on radio? Is this going to license?’ And those voices, they’re important on some level, but it just felt like the (next) record needed to be ‘You know, I don’t care about any of that. I want to go back to when I made records for my little brother and my best friends and I played for them in my Honda Accord. That kind of became the north star for that project.

“I think this record was like a resetting of like you know what, this is the kind of music that I love, that I want to make. This is the kind of album I would be proud of,” he added.

Kearney began his music career by offering what at the time was a unique melding of styles. Fundamentally, Kear ney was a pop-folk singer-songwriter, but he also incor porated elements of hip-hop into the music on his 2007 major label debut album, “Nothing Left To Lose.”

His second studio album, “City of Black & White,” was more singer-songwriter-oriented than the debut, but after that, Kearney pushed his genre-blending tendencies further to the forefront, making hip-hop beats, electronic elements and modern production more of a focus on his three subsequent albums, “Young Love,” “Just Kids” and “Crazytalk.”

Kearney enjoyed some early success while on major labels Columbia and Universal Republic, notching four top 20 hits on “Billboard” magazine’s Adult Pop chart from the “Nothing Left to Lose” and “City of Black & White” albums, but saw diminishing returns after that and went independent with the “Crazytalk” album.

“January Flower” was released in May 2021 on Kearney’s own Tomorrow Music label. The project began in January 2019, when Kearney went to a house in Joshua Tree, Cal ifornia with long-time friends, songwriter Eli Teplin and painter Marshall Roeman.

The original idea was to set up a studio in the house and write and record some material over a two-week period. But Mother Nature had other ideas and delivered a histor ic rain storm that flooded the area and knocked out power to the house.

Leaving the house and re-booking time there later was not an option.

“We couldn’t leave because the house was situated like 10 miles from anywhere on a dirt road that had become a

river,” Kearney said. “We’re just sitting in this dark house together. I can’t remember who did it, but someone made a fire in the fireplace and that kind of added some calm and something you could at least look at. And I pulled out my guitar, and as a joke, I was like, I sang ‘powerless, we’re out of power.’ And then my buddy who I was there with said ‘That sounds kind of cool. You should write that.’ So I wrote the song kind of about that whole journey.”

That song became “January Flower’s” lead track, “Pow erless,” which found Kearney examining what it means to be powerless, both literally and in terms of one’s life being pleasantly out of control.

When the two-week session ended, Kearney had five new songs. Much work remained, but the Joshua Tree ses sions set the tone for “January Flower” by sending Kearney back to creating songs built around acoustic guitar and voice, while he also sought to be more honest, vulnerable and brave than ever in his lyric writing.

“January Flower” was also a back-to-his-beginnings album for Kearney from a production standpoint. When he returned to the project in 2020, he reunited with Robert Marvin, who produced “Nothing Left To Lose” and Kear ney’s third album, “Young Love.”

“Robert’s one of my best friends. We moved to Nashville together and he said ‘Hey, if you’ll help me drive across the country, I’ll help you record some of your songs.’ So he’s the first person I ever sang on a microphone in front of,” Kearney said. “He’s been there since the very begin ning, and like any great behind-the-band documentary, we had a weird falling out over some dumb business stuff after the ‘Young Love’ record. And we were both younger and not as wise and had different expectations. We didn’t talk for a year or two. Then we started just being friends and not making music. We started hanging out and really became friends in ways we had never been because we

weren’t working together. Then after a few years of us just hanging out all of the time, I said ‘Robert,’ I think it’s time we do something special. Let’s put the band back together. I really want to do this with you again. And he was pretty nervous, he’s like ‘I don’t know man, we’ve got a good thing going.”

But Kearney and Marvin navigated the occasional times when there were disagreements, and came out with “Jan uary Flower.”

Kearney is justifiably pleased with “January Flower.” Its 13 songs have agreeable melodies, and overall a bit leaner, more acoustic-oriented (but full-band) sound on songs such as “They Don’t Know,” “Boulder,” “Powerless” and “Blame” (an especially honest and vulnerable song). But “January Flower” also has its share of songs (including “Grand Canyon,” “Can’t Look Back” and “I Don’t Really Care”) that incorporate synthetic beats and the hip-hop and EDM elements for which Kearney is known.

Kearney’s live shows will feature a good number of “January Flower” songs, as well as material from across his career. He’s happy with what the “January Flower” materi al brings to his shows.

“In some ways, this album has reconnected me to a band playing songs. And when I made this record, in the back of my mind the live show was a huge influence on the choices I made and the instrumentation we picked,” Kear ney said. “I really wanted it to be an album that would be really fun to tour and would come to life on tour. I think that’s just where I’m at, like just emotionally, COVID and going through that whole thing made me want to have a little more organic, stripped down, live kind of record, which lends itself really well to live shows.”

Matt Kearney performs at District Live at Plant Riverside District on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 8 p.m. Tickets at tiketmaster. com

23 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
LIVE MUSIC

AARON PAUL ZIMMER:

With humble beginnings in the local bars of Athens, Aaron Paul Zimmer began his music career while going to school at the University of Georgia, but now calls Savan nah home.

Fans of bluegrass may recognize him from his locally-beloved band, City Hotel, but his recent work has been primarily focused on his solo work, carrying an acoustic folk sound with an emphasis on lyricism.

Alongside his multiple studio albums as a member of City Hotel, Zimmer released his first solo album in 2019 called “Saints and Heretics”, which features his patented autobiographical storytelling.

“I try to write stuff that is personal but also vague enough where people can read some of their own experiences within the music. I want people to be able to identify with what I write,” he explained.

Though the album came from his solo writing, Aaron is fast to point out the sup port he received from local musicians in its creation. The album features a number of artists from other local acts and displays a side of the Savannah music community that he loves.

“People in this town are so generous with their time and skill. It is something really special about the community here. It is such a meshing of sounds and musical genres, and we all like to play together. Anytime somebody is putting together an album, usually somebody from every band in town seems to jump on it and do something to help out,” he mused.

For Aaron, collaborative projects are some of his favorite creations and a defining feature of the Savannah music scene. Also in 2019, he released a collaborative EP with Jay Rudd, an active member of the local bluegrass band, Swamptooth. The project sports five tracks co-created by the two mu sicians and stands as a shining example of the benefits of a strongly-connected musical community.

Zimmer and others credit amazing artistic community of Savannah for the large variety of live music hotspots that host musicians like himself.

He can often be found playing his solo music around town at Perch, Foxy Loxy, Edgar’s Proof & Provisions, and more.

“I really like playing at Perch. I love play ing outside up on the roof near the treetops of the beautiful Live oaks,” he says.

For Aaron, this rooftop bar is a perfect setting to take in his Southern folk sound as

the location facilitates a unique and intimate listening experience.

“It just has a great vibe. The people listen ing are always attentive and appreciative. It is one of my favorite spots in town,” he said.

This type of musician-audience dynamic is important for Zimmer, whose work is truly a labor of love.

But while his focus has primarily shifted to solo projects and smaller scale collabo rations, fans of City Hotel can still catch the legendary outfit from time to time during special events in the city.

The four-piece band often reconnects to perform within some of the larger-scale music festivals such as Homegrown Summer Jam at Victory North, most recently.

City Hotel brings the complex instrumen tals and rural sound of traditional bluegrass to the local music scene. The band has three studio albums available, with their most recent being the 2017 release “Don’t Go to the Porch.”

Whether you are a fan of City Hotel or Aaron Paul Zimmer’s melodic solo work, be on the lookout for local live performances featuring the talented musician. In the meantime, all of the City Hotel’s albums and Zimmer’s newest solo and collaborative projects are available for streaming on most major platforms.

24 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 KITCHEN OPEN LATE WE OPEN EARLIEST: DAILY AT 10AM! 21 E MCDONOUGH ST, SAVANNAH, GA 31401 M–SAT 10AM TO 3AM SUN 10AM TO 2AM WWW.MCDONOUGHSLOUNGE.COM HALF PRICED APPS, $3 WELLS $4 GEORGIA & DOMESTIC DRAFTS $5 JAMESON & FIREBALL HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 2PM-6PM TUESDAY TRIVIA @7PM @9PM OPEN JAM HOSTED BY ERIC CULBERSON KARAOKE THURSDAY-MONDAY @9PM MONDAY POKER @7PM KARAOKE! @9PM WEDNESDAY ERIC CULBERSON LIVE BLUES @9PM MUSIC & CLUBS LOCAL SOUND
‘I try to write stuff that is personal but also vague enough where people can read some of their own experiences within the music.’
Aaron Paul Zimmer/Facebook

THE

LEGENDS OF SOUL

@ THE SAVANNAH THEATRE

BASSHOLE XXII

@ THE WORMHOLE

7TH ANNUAL PIANOFEST @ LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION

RAMONA + THE RIOT @ ELECTRIC MOON

How confident is St. Augustine’s top cover band? Enough to take on famous songs by Gladys Knight, who most should know is undeniably Aretha-level. No small task. The seven-piece band bring a big sound to match Mona’s big voice. This E-Moon Thursday night jam benefits Telfair Mammography Fund at St. Joe’s/Candler, so have one more than you want.

Savannah Arts Academy presents a day-long lovefest for the ol’ ebony and ivory. Programming starts early with master classes and an artist Q&A session. Student recitals begin at 3:30. At 7pm, feature performer, clinician, adjudicator, and lecturer Dr. Nicholas Susi of the U. of South Carolina performs selections by Chopin, Liszt, and “Golden Slumbers” by The Beatles.

FRI NOV 4 | 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Savannah Bounce is back with the deuce-deuce of double-deep, depthdefying, bottomless bass festivals.

Presented by the Performing Arts Collective of Savannah, Legends of Soul is a high-energy revue

Primed to swallow up Starland and liquify your vertebrae with frequencies flirting near 20 Hz are Xenotype, Qwyattbeats, Forastettik and FLoRessence. Trick visuals by Graphick elevate the everything.

decades of legends

Sam Cooke, Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, Jackie Wilson, Nina Simone and more. Got two ears and a heart?

FRI NOV 4 | 9 PM

ELTON LIVE!  @ COACH’S CORNER

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW LIVE @ BAY STREET THEATER

AMELIA LUX

@ THE WORMHOLE

local theater troupe delivers

very live version of the midnight movie classic for the twelfth time. Executive director Travis Coles has it down pat, with a mix of old and new performers and a surprise

are not allowed, but do

If you’re the right age and grew up near a radio, you know, love, and can recite the words to at least 15 Elton John songs. No, really you can. It’s probably more. Sir Elton has sold a ridiculous 300+ million records, so despite maniac spending he’s still worth a mint. Elton Live! delivers a relentlessly convincing onslaught of top 10 hits from one of the deepest catalogs in pop history.

FRI NOV 4 | 7 PM

triplet drum patters into his music. A solid 15-year career in the genre tells you he’s highly skilled at his job.

NOV 4 | 10 PM

The local comic started doing stand-up routines outside of bars in 2015 when she was too young to enter. Fast forward to now, and like Billy Batts fatefully said to Tommy DeSimone, she’s “all grown up and doing the town.” She’s also leaving it soon, so this might be your last chance to check out her hilarious stories and be part of the show.

25 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
STAGE PAGE
THUR OCT 27 | 8 PM
The
a
twist. Props
dress up for the show. OCT 28 & 30 @ 7:30 | OCT 29 @ 5:30 | OCT 31 @ 8PM & MIDNIGHT
celebrating
like
Go! FRI OCT 28 | 8 PM
THUR DEC 9 | 7 PM
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FRI

WEDNESDAY 11/ 2

LIVE MUSIC

Cohen’s Retreat

Midtown Pickers, 6 p.m. Driftaway Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m. McDonough’s Blues with Eric Culberson, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Moodright’s

Duckpin Bowling League Night, 8 p.m.

Service Brewing Company

Trivia Night with Jess Shaw, 6:30 p.m.

The Wormhole Bingo, 10 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Totally Awesome Bar Savannah Comedy Underground, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY 11/ 3

LIVE MUSIC

Cohen’s Retreat Munchies & Music, 5-9 p.m. District Live at Plant Riverside District

William Clark Green, Live in Concert, 8-10 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Bar Food Trivia Night, 8 p.m. McDonough’s Family Feud, 7 p.m. The Wormhole Trivia, 10 p.m.

KARAOKE

Bay Street Blues

Karaoke

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Totally Awesome Bar Open Mic Comedy, 8:30 p.m.

DJ Club 51 Degrees

DJ B-Rad, 9 p.m.

Top Deck Sunset Deck Party, 6 p.m.

VICE Lounge + Mojito Bar Latin Night with DL Cesar, first Thursday of every month, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

Service Brewing Company

Service Brewing Run Club, 6:30 p.m.

FRIDAY 11/ 4

LIVE MUSIC

Coffee Bluff Marina LAX, 6 p.m. District Live at Plant Riverside District

Fiesta Latina Dance Party

Featuring LPT Salsa Band, 8-11 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant

JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Service Brewing Company

Bluegrass By The Pint with Swamptooth, 6 p.m. Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

PS Tavern Beer Pong Tournament, 10 p.m.

KARAOKE

Bay Street Blues

Karaoke

Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971 Karaoke Night, 9 p.m.

The Hive Repertory Theatre LLC Adult Night Out - Karaoke!, 8 p.m.

Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

DJ Club 51 Degrees

DJ Fer, DJ Emalo, DJ Lil G, DJ BRad, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One

Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m. Rock House Music & Dance, 10 p.m.

SATURDAY 11/ 5

LIVE MUSIC

Coffee Bluff Marina Gary Strickland, 6 p.m. District Live at Plant Riverside District Mat Kearney, Live in Concert, 8-10 p.m.

Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant JodyJazz Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Blueberry Hill

Pool Tournament, 2 p.m. KARAOKE Bar Food Karaoke Night, 10 p.m. Bay Street Blues Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. Rock House Karaoke, 9 p.m. Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m. COMEDY

Front Porch Improv Adult Drop-in IMPROV Class, 10 a.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS Club One Drag Show, 10:30 p.m. & 12:30 a.m.

Over Yonder Honky Tonk Saturdays

SUNDAY 11/ 6

LIVE MUSIC

Collins Quarter at Forsyth Ember City, 2 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m. District Live at Plant Riverside District

Bumpin Uglies, Live in Concert, 8-10 p.m. Myrtle & Rose, Rooftop Garden Plant Riverside Live Jazz Sunday Brunch

Featuring the Howard Paul Jazz Trio, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Nickie’s 1971

Roy Swindell, 7 p.m. Sting Ray’s Robert Willis, 6 p.m. Tubby’s Tank House (Thunderbolt) Bucky and Barry, 1 p.m. TRIVIA & GAMES

Moon River Brewing Co. Trivia, 6 p.m.

KARAOKE Bay Street Blues Karaoke Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

MONDAY 11/ 7

LIVE MUSIC

Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m. The Wormhole Open Mic, 6 p.m.-2 a.m. TRIVIA & GAMES Club One Super Gay Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Moodright’s BINGO, 8 p.m. Starland Yard Music Bingo, 7 p.m. KARAOKE Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m. BAR & CLUB EVENTS

Fia Rua Irish Pub Family Movie Night, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY 11/ 8

LIVE MUSIC

McDonough’s Open Mic/Jam, 9 p.m. Nickie’s 1971

Roy Swindell, 7 p.m. Totally Awesome Bar Savannah Spotlight Hosts Open Mic Night at Totally Awesome Bar, 9 a.m.-noon TRIVIA & GAMES

Basil’s Pizza and Deli Trivia, 7 p.m. Fia Rua Irish Pub Trivia, 7 p.m. McDonough’s

Trivia Tuesday, 7 p.m. Oak 36 Bar + Kitchen Trivia Tuesday, 9 p.m. Savannah Taphouse Trivia, 7 p.m. Starland Yard

Trivia with Chris Grimmett, 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE

Blueberry Hill Karaoke, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m. Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

Stafford’s Public House

Stafford’s Tuesday Comedy Open Mic, 8:30-11:45 p.m.

26 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022 SOUNDBOARD CONNECT SAVANNAH MUSIC WHO IS PLAYING WHERE THIS WEEK ENTER YOUR EVENT ONLINE AT CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM NOV/2-8 FIESTA LATINA DANCE PARTY FEATURING LPT SALSA BAND @PLANT RIVERSIDE DISTRICT | 7 PM Plant Riverside District will host a special Fiesta Latina Dance Party atSUN/6 District Live. The party will feature a high-energy performance by LPT Salsa Band, a Jacksonville, Fla.based 14-piece Afro-Cuban salsa orchestra that is widely considered the “ambassadors of Salsa and Afro-Cuban music in the Southeast.” In addition, a Salsa DJ will play Latin music and encourage guests to dance the night away on the open dance floor between performances by LPT. Drink specials will be available throughout the evening. | $20/person at the door

GLITTERER + @ LODGE OF SORROWS

THE DOG APOLLO + FRIENDS @ THE WORMHOLE

Former Title Fight member Ned Russin describes his newer band as “short, simple songs with blown out guitars” heavily influenced by hardcore punk. But this isn’t, it’s more lo-fi alt rock with shoegaze and early new wave vibes. The Pink Stones, Small Talk, Black Hat and Pink Peugeot smoove it out.

WED NOV 9 | 7 PM

Get your Halloween weekend going with four bands that rock. The headliners play a strange mix of post-punk, shoegaze and roots. BAS Music uses two drummers to reach new psychedelic heights. The Maxines are grungy hard rock bordering on punk, and Xuluprohpet jam funk, reggae and rock. Like a pillowcase full of candy from strangers, there’s something for everyone.

HALLOWEEN HAVOC @ THE WORMHOLE

LIAM ST. JOHN @ EL ROCKO

The Spokane native and LA-based blues rock singer/songwriter is on his Stripped Back Acoustic Tour. St. John gained fame on The Voice with an eye-opening cover of Marcy Playground’s late 90s alt rock hit “Sex and Candy” that got Gwen all hot and bothered. Nashville folk singer Joshua Quimby (no relation Springfield’s mayor) warms up the drunken assembly.

Lots of bands, so note the decidedly un-spooky daylight start time. Hard rockers Kamenar (pictured) headline with support from Kill the Sound, The Dood, Once Kings, Hassleinone, and Losing Daylight. That’s six!…six!!…six!!! live bands to rock that ass on a Halloween weekend night. $300 in cash prizes for best costumes, so get creative and go home with the munny.

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BAND

THE BAND PAGE

BASTARDANE – BUZZARDS OF FUZZ – ONE LONELY GOAT @ EL ROCKO

156/SILENCE @ LODGE OF SORROWS

Savannah’s hard rock top dogs return for another beer-soaked blast. They step in and out of metal some, and consistently deliver. Your guess about the Buzzard’s guitar tone is mostly right, just bigger and dirtier. OLG, one of local multi-instrumentalist Tanner Hamilton’s 37 bands, opens with stoner sludge.

The Pittsburgh-based metalcore act headlines the loudest Halloween party in Savannah. Bang your head bloody with these yinzers and fellow metalcore madmen Circle Back (Charleston) and If Only (Augusta). Local beatdown specialists Omenkiller get the carnage splattering early. Finish your trick-ortreating, eat a razor blade apple, and mosh into the void.

MON

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31 | 7:30 PM

PM

BUMPIN UGLIES @ DISTRICT LIVE

NORDISTA FREEZE @ EL ROCKO LOUNGE

Your favorite punk reggae band from Annapolis started more than 10 years ago playing house parties and small gigs. They built it into a career, having fun doing it their way, and sticking to the formula that’s worked since those backyard shows. Bonus points for the Buc-ee’s t-shirt.

SUN

The hardest working man in indie pop returns to Savannah for the fourth time in the last 12 months. As cliché as it sounds, the shows keep getting better. If you’ve seen the relentless Freeze and his band in action, you already know this. If you’ve managed to miss the last three, prepare for Friday Night Rectification. A guaranteed monster show.

6 | 8 PM

| 9 PM

27 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022
OCT
FRI OCT 28
SAT OCT 29 | 6:30 PM
FRI OCT 28 | 8 PM THE
PAGE SOUNDBOARD IS A FREE SERVICE - TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE ENTER YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY ON CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM AND CHOOSE “SOUNDBOARD.”. DEADLINE IS NOON MONDAY, TO APPEAR IN WEDNESDAY’S EDITION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.
SAT NOV 5
8
NOV
WED NOV 9
10 PM
SOUNDBOARD IS A FREE SERVICE - TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE ENTER YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY ON CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM AND CHOOSE “SOUNDBOARD.”. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.
ACROSS 1. “Purple Haze” singer Hendrix 5. Fudged the facts 9. Fish sauce taste 14. How “Duck, Duck, Goose” players are arranged 16. Nissin noodle 17. Rise in the ranks of prizefighters? 19. Truss’s lasted 45 days 20. Glowing sign 21. Chops down 22. One can be educated 24. Pioneering TV producer 26. They precede ZIPs 29. GPS suggestion 30. Leeds lav 31. ___Kosh B’Gosh (kids’ clothing line) 34. What to say to get a Missouri city’s attention? 38. Raggedy doll names 39. “Sure thing” 40. Really could use 41. “I’ll swap your Disneyland for Tuscany,” e.g.? 46. Scrabble three-pointers 47. Dad on “Rugrats” 48. Musical ability 49. Emmy-winning “Squid Game” star ___ Jung-jae 50. Used to be 51. “Glee” character Abrams 53. End in ___ (go into overtime) 56. Witness stand recitation 58. Maui farewell 62. Magazine for the worldly woodchuck? 65. Bring forth 66. Bug that releases poisonous droplets 67. Mexican restaurant condiment 68. One of many in a terminal 69. Caviar sources DOWN 1. Triangular sails 2. “Why was ___ invited?” 3. Long, as a garment 4. Cupcake topper 5. T-shirt option (abbr.) 6. “That’s a hiding spot?!” 7. “It’s nobody ___ business” 8. 1930s art type 9. Place for ashes 10. “___ and the Bear” (Russian animated series with record-breaking viewership on YouTube) 11. Friend en francais 12. Cat’s comment 13. B&B relatives 15. Correspondingly 18. 2000s corporate scandal subject 23. Airline abbr. 25. Fish and chips fish 26. Make smoother, perhaps 27. Coffee break time, maybe 28. Backs up, as phone data 30. “Nightly News” anchor 31. April who befriended the Ninja Turtles 32. Script division 33. Maze growth 35. “Rhythm ___ Dancer” (Snap! song) 36. Puzzle-solving implement for the bold 37. Grind to a halt 42. Org. at JFK 43. “Challenge accepted!” 44. Sinking ship’s evacuee 45. European Space Agency rocket 50. Payroll periods 51. Heart chambers 52. Like some siblings 53. Iowa State University town 54. “L’shana ___” (Rosh Hashanah greeting) 55. Revered object 57. Overly eager 59. “___ be young again!” 60. It gets a par 61. Mellows, like cheese 63. “V for Vendetta” actor Stephen 64. Purple yam “Day After Day”--you there, what day is it? by Matt Jones JONESIN’ CROSSWORD ©2022 Matt Jones CROSSWORD ANSWERS FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND CALENDAR LISTINGS, VISIT CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM SUDOKU 4 U SUDOKU SOLUTION 28 CONNECT SAVANNAH | OCT. 26-NOV.1, 2022

Georgia

Forum to be held February 27-28, 2023, at Kehoe Iron Works at

learn, act

The Southeast
Leadership
Trustees Garden. With its core mission being to include, listen,
and grow, the Forum was founded to help our region address generational systemic poverty, isolated silos of community and communication, while moving the community forward towards excellence and growth opportunities for all. Forum attendees include emerging, established and diverse leaders from civic groups, non-profits, neighborhoods, government, and business. visit southeastleadershipforum.com for more information!

HISTORIC SAVANNAH FOUNDATION ANNUAL GALA AT VICTORY NORTH

BUNNY IN THE CITY

In their mission to preserve and protect Savannah’s rich heritage, the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) hosted their annual gala at Victory North on Saturday, October 22.

With perfect weather for the courtyard cocktail hour, I arrived to find Lesley Francis and her efficient PR team waiting with HSF’s Sue Adler, Ryan Jarles and Colleen Reynolds. Knowing that Sue is finishing up last minute details for tonight’s 200 guests, I quickly snap a pic of them before heading over to meet Ron Melander’s crew of tuxedo-clad men.

Asking Richard and Micheal Merrill, Dwight Horn, Jordan Gray, Micheal Massette and Joe Rogers to surround my longtime friend, I tell Ron that his group of sharp-dressed men could grace the cover of a fashion magazine before heading over to meet glamorous Pam Miller and her son Mitch Durden.

Next is Savannah Repertory’s talented Ryan McCurdy and Katie Schmitz, another sighting of Lowell and Hilary Kronowitz with Joe Marinelli photobombing their pic, followed by a photo of the perennially young-looking Corey Jones with his wife Emily.

While congratulating Corey on his speech at the Savannah Chamber of Commerce Awards last week, I see Dana and Brad Whitfield arrive with Tim and Alison Walmsley. Always curious on what people do for fun, I learn that Judge Walmsley loves to shoot sporting clays, Alison loves artwork, Dana enjoys pickleball and Brad is a devout reader.

I knew that I was going to be bombarded with photo requests but I was not prepared for my next photo session with fashionista Hannah Bryne. Agreeing with Jennifer Abshire that her “Life Is Short, Get Divorced” business podcast partner, Hannah is the full package. I watch the international technology consultant twirl around in a black, fitted sequin dress like she is the belle of the ball!

On her arm is her dashing husband Brian. I’m not sure of how to describe my favorite Irishman, but wickedly funny, charismatic and a perfect mate for Hannah are the first three things I think of when I listen to him praise Hannah’s posing session with me!

Another reason I love this event so much is because I get to see people that I have formed great relationships with, like the indomitable Kathryn Murph.

Lesley Francis, Sue Adler, Ryan Jarles, Colleen Reynolds Pam Miller, Mitch Durden Corey and Emily Jones Emily Le Master, Erin Clay, Erin Wessling, Natalie Santiago
COMMUNITY

The hostess of the best Kentucky Derby in town and her husband David graciously open their three-story downtown pad to me and dozens of their best friends to a “party on the square” every year.

Looking like Southern royalty, Austin Hill saunters in with his signature fitted tuxedo. Who I think is Savannah’s best-looking builder, Danny Pinyan is being upstaged by his gorgeous wife Lisa; and looking resplendent in a dark blue royal gown is Marianne Greer. Pulling the Savannah realtor over for an introduction and photo with Austin, I move on to welcome Kentucky native and Connect Savannah publisher Erica Baskin.

I’m not sure what makes me happier, knowing that Erica is going to say something outrageous, seeing her husband Larry look all “GQ,” or seeing Charles Morris Sr. with his wife Rosalind, son Charles Hill Morris, Jr. and wife (and HSF Board of Trustees member) Louisa. After insisting on a pic with the senior Mr. Morris, I skip over to hug everyone, from Berkshire Hathaway’s Will Thuman, banking mogul Nick Harty, and dapper-dressed Leon Davenport with his wicked-cool wife Jennifer.

There she is! Petite and perfect Erin Clay has arrived with an entourage! The marketing executive of W Projects, a full service experiential Savannah marketing agency, tells me how much she loves working with Erin Wessling. “I get to work with people like Danny Pinyan and Cody Tharpe while working for a powerhouse like Erin … best job ever!,” shares Clay.

It’s definitely a night for real estate! There are so many local realtors here that I can’t keep up with who all is here. I just saw Three Oaks Realty’s Stephanie Wilson-Evans arrive, “Savannah Luxury Real Estate Pro” Liza DiMarco is looking like her normal glam self, and another Berkshire Hathaway beauty, Heather Booth has a real life boat captain on her arm!

Let’s chat about Matt Parrish real quick. The first time I met the laid-back captain was a few years ago for a drone photo shoot of Heather’s 52 foot “Starry Night” yacht. Fast forward to last week, where I ended up on her luxurious private charter for the Savannah Concierge Association social, and saw the blue jean and baseball cap clad captain chilling with a group of ladies. A week later, here he is all suited up and looking like a James Bond double agent!

It’s showtime! Inside the three-story entertainment venue, Sue Adler and Austin Hill take the stage to welcome Mayor Van Johnson to HSF’s largest fundraiser of the year. Loving their mission of saving buildings, places and stories that define Savannah past, present and future with their Revolving Fund, Affordable Housing Campaign and educational programs, I wish I could recruit every Savannahian into joining this small but mighty group of historic crusaders in their quest to preserve our magnificent city!

Hannah Byrne, Yvonne Smith Richard Merrill, Joe Rogers, Jordan Gray, Ron Melander, Michael Merrill, Michael Massette, Dwight Horn Tim and Allison Walmsley, Dana and Brad Whitfield Marianne Greer, Austin Hill Ryan McCurdy, Katie Schmitz Jennifer and Leon Davenport
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