Connect Savannah - August 4, 2021

CONNECT SAVANNAH

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RELEASING ADDY: HUNDREDS ATTEND SEA TURTLE’S RETURN TO TYBEE WATERS

TOOMBS COUNTY’S CRAIG CAMPBELL TAKES THE STAGE AT VICTORY NORTH

connectsavannah.com

RAISING OUR

VOICES SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL RETURNS TO LIFT OUR SPIRITS

DETAILS AND SCHEDULE INSIDE

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AUGUST 4 - 10 • 2021

SIppin TEa Monday $3 Truly Tea $13 Buckets

tree-fifty tuesday

$3.50 beer, titos, RBV, jameson

thursdays, FRIDAYS & Sunday Live MUSIC | 6-9 pm Drink specials

Wine wednesday

Half off Boles

125 West River Street On top of the cotton sail hotel SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 11AM TO 11 PM* FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 11AM TO 1AM*

www.topdeckbar.com *CLOSING HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

An immersive, 3 day leadership experience.

September 12-14 The Southeast Georgia Leadership Forum is a three-day event that brings together more than 400 leaders representing neighborhoods, non-profits, civic groups, government, businesses and the up and comers.

Organized by Morris Multimedia, with the generous support of Georgia Southern University, the Georgia Ports Authority and Gulfstream, the first ever forum is taking place on September 12-14, 2021 at Trustees Garden in Savannah, Georgia. To help our community succeed in an ever changing and fast paced society, the forum is focused on discovering our collective potential to be greater by committing to new ideas, supporting the growth of our emerging and established leaders, and by being purposeful in building collaboration from all segments of our diverse community.

Working together we can make our communities stronger and better.

visit www.southeastGAleadershipforum.com for more information!

Meida Sponsors:

CONNECT SAVANNAH | DEC 16 - 22, 2020

Thank you to our Sponsors:

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Y O U R H O M E T O W N E V E N T S PA C E A H I G H E N D V E N U E F O R W E D D I N G A N D C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S

INFO@TRUSTEESGARDEN.COM | 912-233-8938 | TRUSTEESGARDEN.COM

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WEEK CONNECT SAVANNAH

AT A GLANCE

WEDNESDAY 8/ 4 LEGENDS ON LIVE

Enjoy a cast of Broadway and Las Vegas singers, dancers, live band and aerial artistry perform a 2-hour tribute to pop music legends including Beatles, Jackson 5, Aretha Franklin, Bruno Mars, Earth, Wind & Fire, Celine Dion, and many more in a Vegas-style show. 8 p.m. (continuing show) The Historic Savannah Theatre, 222 Bull St.$39 adults, $19.50 16 and under savannahtheatre.com

OPEN MIC AT MINT TO BE MOJITO BAR

Join host Larry Broussard for Savannah’s Best Open Mic every Wednesday. Watch LIVE ON TIKTOK! (Cajuncookin).

Larry plays your favorite hits and requests between sets.

5-11 p.m.Mint to Be Mojito’s, 12 W State Street.

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!

The first place team receives a $100 cash prize.

6:30 p.m. Service Brewing Company, 574 Indian Street. servicebrewing.com

UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC

THURSDAY 8/ 5 BINGO! AT ELKS LODGE

Join Elks Lodge for Bingo on

HIGHLIGHTED PICKS FROM HOSTESS CITY HAPPENINGS THIS WEEK To have your event considered for inclusion in Week at a Glance, please send an email to wag@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.

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.

FREE YOGA ON THE BEACH AT THE THE DECK

Enjoy free yoga on the Tybee sponsored by The Deck Beach Bar & Kitchen. Bring a large beach towel, your mat or a tapestry, a hat and sunglasses, water and a friend.

9-10 a.m. The Deck Beachbar and Kitchen, 404 Butler Ave

SMILES IN GEORGETOWN

Head to Georgetown Family Dental to celebrate their 5th year located in the Georgetown community. This “Smiles in Georgetown” event shines a spotlight on Georgetown businesses and residents coming together.4-6:30 p.m.

Georgetown Family Dental, 821 King George Blvd.

FRIDAY 8/ 6 BLUEGRASS BY THE PINT WITH SWAMPTOOTH

Join Service Brewing for Bluegrass by the Pint every Friday featuring live bluegrass from favorite local favorite’s, Swamptooth.

6 p.m. Service Brewing Company, 574 Indian Street.

SATURDAY 8/ 7 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, 1919 Bull St.

FIRST SATURDAY HIKE This moderately-paced, 3-mile hike will include a talk about

TUES/

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ALEXANDER HAMILTON AT THE DAVENPORT HOUSE The Davenport House Museum will host a series of lectures about American patriot Alexander Hamilton on Tuesdays in July and August.

Accompanying each lecture will be a one-woman performance about Rachel Faucette, Hamilton’s mother.

the different ecosystems of the park. Parking pass is $5. 1011 a.m. Fort McAllister Historic Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd. $2 912-727-2339. explore. gastateparks.org

SAVANNAH STATE FARMER’S MARKET

Stop by the Savannah State Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for fresh, local produce, plants, flowers, nuts, seasonings, and crafts by local artisans! Come early and visit the Farmbag At The Market table for your bag of free produce! first Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Sunday 8/ 8 .

LIVE JAZZ SUNDAY BRUNCH FEATURING THE HOWARD PAUL JAZZ TRIO

Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Garden at Plant Riverside District will host weekly live performances by legendary jazz guitarist Howard Paul 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Myrtle & Rose,

Rooftop Garden Plant Riverside, 400 West River Street. plantriverside.com

SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL KICK-OFF CONCERT

The Savannah VOICE Festival returns live for 2021. Meet the artists in this wonderful concert of your favorite opera, musical theatre, and song selections.

5 p.m. Jewish Educational Alliance, 5111 Abercorn St. $27.50-45

MONDAY 8/ 9 TYBEE ISLAND FARMERS MARKET

Weekly market featuring a variety of produce, baked goods, honey, eggs, BBQ, sauces and dressings, popsicles, dog treats and natural body products.

Artisans are also featured each week. Located at 30 Meddin Drive,right behind the Historic

Tybee Lighthouse. 4 p.m. tybeeislandfarmersmarket .com

TUESDAY 8/10 ALEXANDER HAMILTON AT THE DAVENPORT HOUSE

The Davenport House Museum will host a series of lectures about American patriot Alexander Hamilton on Tuesdays in July and August.

Accompanying each lecture will be a one-woman performance about Rachel Faucette, Hamilton’s mother. Lectures begin in the house’s garden at 6:30 p.m. and performances begin at 7:15. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved inside the museum, which is located at 324 E. State St. in Savannah. The audience will be limited to 15 attendees. 6:30 p.m.

Davenport House, 324 East State St.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

Head to Totally Awesome Bar for Underground Open Mic featuring comedians of all experience levels. Head out and give your best five minutes, or just go have a laugh. 21+ 8:30 p.m.

Totally Awesome Bar, 107 B Whitaker St.

AUG/

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WEEK

AT A GLANCE

ADMINISTRATIVE ERICA BASKIN PUBLISHER erica@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4378 WENDY WICKHAM BUSINESS MANAGER wendy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4373

EDITORIAL NOELLE WIEHE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF noelle@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4356 BRANDY SIMPKINS COMMUNITY/EVENTS JOURNALIST brandy@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4358

(CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE)

FREE YOGA ON THE BEACH AT THE DECK

OUR VALUES

Connect Savannah at its core is focused on arts and entertainment and the happenings in our community. We are also a news organization with professional journalists who write about community news and the about the people who live here.

Connect Savannah is dedicated to keeping readers informed and aware of all that goes on in the community.

The presentation of both news and opinion is designed to educate, entertain, inform and foster conversation.

We appreciate and encourage readers to share news tips with us, and to share any criticism and questions.

We are your comprehensive source for the arts, entertainment, music, and community events. We are here to serve you.

We are blessed to be part of the greatest country in the world and the freedom it bestows on its citizens and its press.

Find us on these platforms or reach out to our newsroom at news@connectsavannah.com or 912-721-4378.

Enjoy free yoga on the Tybee sponsored by The Deck Beach Bar & Kitchen. Bring a large beach towel, your mat or a tapestry, a hat and sunglasses, water and a friend.

9-10 a.m. The Deck Beachbar and Kitchen, 404 Butler Ave.

PICNIC AT FORYSTH PARK

Join Savannah Yoga Center for an afternoon in Forsyth Park. for a community-wide picnic. Meet out in front of Collins Quarters and enjoy the live music. Bring your own food and supplies and Savannah Yoga Center will bring the yard games.

4-6 p.m. Forsyth Park, Drayton St. & East Park Ave.

PROUD SPONSOR OF

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

ADVERTISING INFORMATION: (912) 721-4378 sales@connectsavannah.com BUCKY BRYANT STRATEGIC MARKETING CONSULTANT bucky@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4381

DISTRIBUTION WAYNE FRANKLIN DISTRIBUTION MANAGER (912) 721-4376

Explore the wonders of nature with all kinds of wild fun for your wee ones.

This week’s theme is “Roam Bison Roam!” day. Pre-registration required.

10 & 11 a.m.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd.

By Jamie Burton

LAUREN WOLVERTON STRATEGIC MARKETING CONSULTANT lauren@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4380

MANDY YOUNCE REGIONAL DIGITAL SALES DIRECTOR mandy@connectsavannah.com (912) 503-0874

TODDLER TUESDAY

LOVE FOR OCEAN SPROUTS ADVOCACY FOR SEA LIFE

Morgan Smith

JAMIE BURTON MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST jamie@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-9854

The ghost of Savannah’s legendary open mic returns. Head out to the sequel to the open mic Hannibal Buress called “whack” and “please put that phone down”. All experience levels welcome! Come out and give us your best 5 minutes, or just come and laugh at us, we like it.

8:30-11:45 p.m.

Stafford’s Public House, 306 W. Upper Factor’s Walk.

COLUMN

Angela Miller, Jesse Blanco, Beth Stewart, Frank Ricci, Lauren Wolverton, Jamie Burton, Beth Logan, Danietté Thomas, Orrin Konheim,

LOGAN HINTON STRATEGIC MARKETING CONSULTANT logan@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4354

STAFFORD’S TUESDAY COMEDY OPEN MIC

ON THE COVER The talented Sean Christiansen rocks out at the 2019 Savannah VOICE Festival. Find this year’s full schedule in this issue.

Photo courtesy of Savannah VOICE Festival

/connectsav

@ConnectSavannah

/connectsavannah

© 2021, Savannah Media, LLC. 611 East Bay Street Savannah, Georgia 31401 Phone: (912) 231-0250 | Fax: (912) 238-2041

I grew up in Upstate New York, so going to the beach for a weekend wasn’t an option for me. The closest “beach” I had was Lake George, and if you’ve ever been there, you know it’s nothing compared to what we have here in our own backyard.

Now living just 20 minutes away from the beach, I have found a love for the water, and even more so, the animals that live in it.

I have written two stories now with individuals from the Tybee Island Marine Science Center and—I have to say—they have the coolest jobs. They are giving hands-on care every day to animals we are used to seeing through glass: turtles, starfish and baby alligators to name a few.

They are so passionate about what they do and it has truly sparked a realization in me to take ownership of how we treat our ocean and its creatures.

For millions of years, those animals have learned to evolve just so they can survive.

They’ve changed the colors of their shells to blend and have even changed their bodies allowing them to eat other fish. In the specific case of a loggerhead sea turtle, they’re born knowing exactly what to do. It’s fascinating.

Everyday we take advantage of the things we have in our lives. For some, the beach is no big deal, but for me, it’s a new world I am just now starting to experience.

With this in mind, let’s not take advantage of the beautiful sea life and their ocean.

As humans, we have the power to help these things thrive, but we also have the power to destroy it.

We can’t allow our selfish ways to destroy the lives of creatures who have been constantly changing just to live another day.

Let’s keep our beaches clean and protect the animals we are so lucky to see.

NEWS

COMMUNITY

LOCAL SECURITY COMPANY NAMED BEST MIDSIZE FIRM IN U.S.

By Orrin Konheim

This past June, Security Sales and Integration Magazine named Savannah-based security company scDataCom the annual winner for the Sammy Awards Installer of the Year for small to midsize companies. It is the most prestigious honor in the business “We’re very proud to be woman-owned and be a diverse team, but as a company, we’re not the best because of our subcategory, we’re the best because we are the best company awarded,” said Alaina Mayer who founded the company and currently runs it with her mother.

In order to be considered for the award, scDataCom was considered on metrics such as the size of their customer base, the range of installations the company performs and the corporate culture. The company specializes in customized security solutions for commercial customers, including video surveillance, access control, intrusion and the telecommunications cabling

that supports these systems.

When Mayer founded the company in 2013 after graduating with a degree in English literature from Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Florida, she had found her passion working in an art gallery. However, the job market wasn’t particularly amenable to her when she graduated.

“I had the really unique experience of doing that which [I] loved which was working in an art gallery, [but] when I was staring down the barrel of graduating and not having parental support and youthful naivety, I made the jump from art to cameras.”

It also helped that her mother, Kathleen Ford, came on board.

Ford had recently retired from a 26 year career in the U.S. Army and decided to return to the work force with her daughter’s company because, as she puts it, “I found myself missing being professionally challenged as I had been during my Army career.”

“We’ve been in business for eight years and that’s been a learning experience every year,” Mayer said. “[Especially] with my mother coming on board with a formal strategy.”

“As a company we’re very team focused. We’ve achieved what we’ve achieved thus far because of our team and they are our best investment,” Mayer said.

When asked about the future, Mayer said she hoped that over the next three years the Savannah-based company could increase their global presence and provide a better quality of life to everyone on their team.

Alaina Mayer and her mother Kathleen Ford accept the Sammy Awards Installer of the Year for small to midsize companies for Mayer’s company, scDataCom. Photo courtesy of scDataCom

Historic Preservation in Georgia

LARGEST PRESERVATION FUND IN AMERICAN HISTORY TO SAVE AFRICAN AMERICAN LANDMARKS ANNOUNCES $3M IN 2021 GRANTS

By Brandy Simpkins brandy@connectsavannah.com

2021 African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund Georgia Grantees Regional Recipients Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society

(Sapelo Island, Georgia) Developers and gentrification have long threatened Gullah Geechee land and cultural heritage.

This grant will help seed a new emergency fund—known as the Gullah Geechee Legal Defense Fund—to assist Gullah property owners with retaining land ownership and fight forced sales from rising taxes and speculative investors.

St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition

(St. Simons Island, Georgia) To stimulate heritage-based economic development by Gullah Geechee residents, a new entrepreneurial training program will be developed to educate descendants in historical interpretation, culinary arts, and architectural rehabilitation.

To learn more about the Action Fund and the 2021 grantees, visit savingplaces.org/actionfund.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund distributed roughly $350,000 between five Georgia organizations for 2021 grants, including one in St. Simons Island..

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is an initiative of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The $350,000 awarded to Georgia grantees was a part of their distribution of $3 million in funding used to support the preservation of African American landmarks across the United States.

This year’s $3 million disbursal represents the largest single disbursement in the Action Fund’s four-year history. The organization has granted a total of $7.3 million dollars since its inception.

Georgia’s grantees were five of 40 grantees across the United States.

The Action Fund released a statement by Lonnie Bunch, the first African American and first historian to serve as Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution saying,the action fund is the largest resource dedicated to the preservation of African American

architectural landmarks in U.S. history.

“These grants will positively impact 40 communities nationwide and result in the creation of a visible, preserved legacy of African American contributions,” Bunch said.

The Associate Director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund Tiffany Tolbert says: “The African American Cultural Heritage Action fund has a goal of preserving and telling the full story of historic sites associated with African American activism, achievements, culture and education,” Tolbert said. “The purpose of the action fund is to provide resources and assistance, and elevate the stories of the places where African Americans have contributed to the American story.”

Tolbert says the initiative fulfills their goals in a number of ways including providing grants, providing technical assistance to historic sites across the country, elevating the significance of the locations through digital and print content and engaging research to conduct education surrounding historic stories. That’s only a small amount of what the initiative does, she said.

This year’s grants were given across four categories: capacity building, project planning, capital, and programming and interpretation.

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Proposed Headline: There’s no place like home Admiral “Addy” starts new adventure

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center team looks on along with hundreds of bystanders July 28 as Admiral “Addy” the rescued loggerhead sea turtle makes her way for the first time to the salt waters of Tybee Island beach. Photo by Noelle Wiehe

NEWS

RELEASING CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

ADDY

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SEA TURTLE WITH PECULIAR BEGINNINGS GETS A ROUSING ESCORT TO HER NEW HOME

By Jamie Burton jamie@connectsavannah.com

Admiral the loggerhead sea turtle, known affectionately by her caretakers as “Addy,” was released into the ocean on July 28 at North Beach on Tybee Island as hundreds of people gathered to witness her first strokes into her new journey.

As Tybee Island Marine Science Center representatives watched their once baby hatchling swim off, they were confident in her readiness to live in the sea with hopes that one day, Addy may swim through the area once again. They’ll know if she does, too, thanks to a rice-sized tag planted into her shoulder muscles.

The event was significant across the country as people have followed Addy’s story since her journey began three years ago.

Addy, along with five other loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings were found in a shower July 24, 2018, at the Admiral’s Inn inside a hotel room trash can with just a little tap water.

Addy stayed back while the other five hatchlings were released immediately.

Since that fateful day, Chantal Audran has been along for the ride as Addy’s caretaker.

Also a curator for the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, Audran said they had never had a call such as this one, but the event was ironically perfect timing. The center was looking for a new baby to serve as an educational turtle, teaching visitors about loggerheads along with their threatened status and endangerment.

“Addy has always been different because she’s from a different crop within her nest,” Audran said. “She’s always been super fit, and strong, and tough and keeps us on our toes because she was just a different individual than anyone else.”

The chance of predation is much lower for

Addy because of her size at the time she was released.

“They have a hormone [upon hatching] that gives them a huge energy boost that gets them out into the middle of the ocean,” Audran said. “That’s a huge trip for something that is the size of a potato chip and weighs 16 grams. Addy being larger and being released at 56 pounds is an enormous benefit. There’s truth in that, out of all of those six, Addy will have the best chance of survival.

When Addy was first seen by Dr. Terry Norton, director and veterinarian at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, she weighed the same as three quarters or a CD. On the day of her release, she equaled the weight of 4,500 quarters or 1,500 CDs, but she’s not done. She will reach a weight of 400 pounds in her lifetime.

Addy’s weight met state requirements for a beach release, the center’s first one ever in addition to it being public. In more ways than one, she is unique. Audran said Addy is the largest and oldest turtle they’ve ever had.

Although they had to say goodbye, Addy will forever be remembered by those in the community and beyond. For the past three years, the loggerhead has taught thousands of people serving in her

role as the Marine Debris Ambassador.

Their mission is to educate everyone about marine debris and what can hurt a sea turtle while they teach about their natural history.

“Our job is to spark that stewardship, and Addy did that,” Audran said. “She met so many people and enchanted so many people that they’ll love loggerhead sea turtles forever and hear about them and maybe go to a beach cleanup or participate a little more in the conservation of sea turtles because of this girl.”

Addy’s adventure was to always be released on her third birthday, Audran said. They hoped to move her into the tank purchased for her at the new center but now it will be the home for the next education turtle.

Audran said nothing was unplanned or untimely. Health wise, Addy’s test came back perfectly, assuring the caretakers she was ready to go home.

“You know and you trust in the science of her brain that she’s going to be a-okay and for sure, an eating machine,” Audran said. “We teach that they’re not remembering us and I do believe that once she gets out, she’ll go straight into her next mission.”

ABOVE RIGHT: Admiral “Addy” the loggerhead sea turtle makes her way through the Tybee Island beach sand toward the ocean as she is released July 28 by members of the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

ABOVE: Tybee Island Marine Science Center team members and caretakers of “Addy” share a hug as the rescued loggerhead sea turtle disappears from view after being released July 28 at North Beach on Tybee Island.

Photos by Noelle Wiehe

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CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

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FOOD & DRINK

By Jesse Blanco

Nick Wilber isn’t the first chef I’ve spoken to over the years that touched down in Savannah and essentially had to learn a whole new language.

FAT RADISH

SETTLING INTO A GROOVE

I’ve been told stories of executive chefs taking jobs in Savannah specifically because of the culinary influences of the region. Not just Savannah, of course. The South in general. Successful chefs head this way all of the time in order to ‘fill out their resumes’ with the flavors that have made this corner America famous.

It wouldn’t be the first time a 15-20-year veteran in a Savannah kitchen taught some ‘big city hot shot’ how to really make grits like mama makes.

I’m not sure if Chef Nick knows how to make Grandma’s grits or not, but he’d be the first to tell you there has been a little bit of a learning curve in his two years running the show at The Fat Radish in downtown Savannah.

“There’s been some getting used to,” Nick said of his getting a feel for this market.

You see, you learn pretty quickly around here that it doesn’t really matter what was popular at your stops in New York and Los Angeles, both of which Chef Nick can claim, downtown Savannah is a little different. If you want to appeal to as many people as possible in a brand new restaurant, then you need to figure out a way to remain ‘approachable’ while at the same time staying true to your vision for a new restaurant.

That’s not a ‘Fat Radish’ situation; that’s almost any chef in a tourist dominated market situation.

Any chef will tell you that it takes a minute to understand what is available to you from suppliers. You may have an abundance of some produce, but you may not like it. Your favorite seafood supplier may only come to your area once a week or less.

When you are trying to provide as much quality as possible, those are just some of the challenges.

If you bring up the fact that nearly a year was lost to a pandemic, Chef Nick smiles and says, “It gave us the opportunity to try some things that we may keep going forward.” Which is about all you can do in trying to acclimate to a new market under ridiculously tough conditions.

The good news is, Nick credits Savannah’s restaurant community for helping him meet the right people as quickly as possible. The first name he mentions is Mashama Bailey at The Grey, who’s restaurant is a pitching wedge away on MLK Blvd.

“She called me very early on to tell me about the different resources we had for seafood here,” he said.

“There was one supplier who didn’t have enough business to make a trip to Savannah more than once a week. So she said ‘if we use this guy, we can get him here

EAT IT AND LIKE IT more often.’”

Others he credits with huge assists in helping him feel comfortable right away were Jason Restivo, John Benhase and Brandon Carter of Common Thread.

“There’s no competition among chefs,” he said, referring to the fact that he’s appreciative of the help knowing full well that a high tide will only help the scene as a whole.

Chef Nick Wilber’s Watermelon with Hot Sauce Mash Vinaigrette and Basil.

Some old timers will tell you that wasn’t always the case in Savannah, but it is certainly great to see that it is now.

Nick’s summer menu includes one of my favorite dishes in the city right now: Cocktel de Camaron.

Literally translated to Shrimp Cocktail, but it is more of ceviche. The flavors clearly influenced by his time in Southern California.

A month or so ago, I think I tried it all - most of it anyway. The only thing I didn’t love was the grilled cheese sandwich. But then, when you go to The Fat Radish, why are you eating a grilled cheese sandwich?

The kids have to eat too, right?

Nick and The Fat Radish will be participating in Savannah Restaurant Week Aug. 20 through 29. But no need to wait that long, if you haven’t tried them out already, now might be a good time to eat it and like it.

Cocktel de Camaron from Fat Radish Photos by Jesse Blanco

NEW ‘GRAND TOUR’ CLASSES AT 700 KITCHEN COOKING SCHOOL TAKE PARTICIPANTS ON A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD OF CUISINE

by Beth Stewart

Photos provided by the Mansion on Forsyth Park.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

Explore the bold flavors and rich palates of Southeast Asia in a cooking class at the 700 Kitchen Cooking School located at the Mansion on Forsyth Park.

This interactive class doubles as a culinary tour and invites guests to recreate some of the region’s most fragrant and sumptuous dishes. The first class is scheduled for Aug. 6 from 6 p.m to 9 p.m.

Class menu items include Shoya Ramen, Chinese Pork Dumplings, Korean Bibimbap, Vietnamese Basil Rolls and ThaiStyle Chicken with Massaman Curry.

Spaces are limited to 16 guests at $99 per person, but private classes can also be arranged.

The new Grand Tour series of classes were designed to give locals and tourists a taste of international cuisine. Daniel Herget, Executive Chef at The Mansion on Forsyth Park, said, “I think we all missed out on a lot of travel this past year and a half, these Grand Tour classes are a way to experience different cuisines and cultures for right here in Savannah.”

The cooking classes are planned for any level of experience and are very hands-on. “I think our classes work well for every level of cook. So if you are a beginner, don’t be shy. Likewise if you’re a little more experienced, it’s a great place to hone your skills and have a good time,” said Herget.

In addition to the Grand Tour: Southeast Asia, other classes will focus on the Caribbean and South American cuisine. Other classic choices include Champagne Brunch, Low Country Staples and elegant date nights. Herget said, “Expect to have fun, learn a lot, and make some new friends.”

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RAISING OUR

VOICES

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR TWO-WEEK EXTRAVAGANZA

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A Banquet of Vocal Performances will Fill Multiple City Venues August 8-22

By Morgan Smith The ninth season of the Savannah VOICE festival, led by famed opera legend Sherrill Milnes, presents an impressive lineup of live events and partnerships this year.

The City of Savannah’s musical entertainment scene will be bustling Aug. 8-22 with everything from opera to musical theatre and popular song events for the enjoyment of residents and visitors to Savannah. The two-week festival presents exciting opportunities for the people of Savannah to immerse themselves in the art and culture of live musical performance.

This year’s lineup boasts an eclectic variety of performances such as “Song,” at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Aug. 12. The show will feature great song literature including world premieres of new works with emerging composers and young writers from a collaboration between SVF and Deep Center, a nonprofit in Savannah which provides youthVocal writing workshops.

New thought-provoking shows are coming to Savannah such as “Femme” at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Aug. 18, which showcases women in music.

Fan favorites will be back by popular demand including “Rock” on Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. which features classic hits by artists such as Abba, Foreigner and the Carpenters.

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 14 and Aug. 21, for early morning risers, shows are available like “Coffee,” featuring performances in the delightful garden of the Davenport House Museum warmly welcoming patrons with coffee and

CULTURE

ABOVE: Carlton Moe and Angela De Venuto perform together for Savannah VOICE Festival’s 2019 premiere.

LEFT: Legendary opera baritone Sherrill Milnes at the Master Class performance.

BELOW: An image of the unforgettable 2019 Pagliacci performance.

OPPOSITE PAGE: A still of the fan favorite High C’s Concert performance from 2018.

Photos courtesy of Savannah VOICE Festival

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

pastries.

This year’s festival, also, has a few crown jewels.

SVF and Chatham County Schools partnered to create an entirely new and exciting work that will be debuting at the festival called “Feast” at 5 p.m. on Aug. 14. The piece presents an imaginative continuation tale of Prince Charming and Cinderella after their wedding, written by Composer in Residence Michael Ching in collaboration with Esther F. Garrison School for the Arts students. Attend to see what happens after the happily ever after.

Another crowning performance takes place on the evening of Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. as the most famous opera of all time La Bohéme is presented in an abridged version of Puccini’s love story. Bohéme is conducted by Andrew Bisantz and directed by Fabrizio Melano.

Executive Director of SVF Maria Zouves said the operatic performances for this year have been designed to perfectly fit the city of Savannah.

“We made the decision that the Savannah opera would be scaled to the city,” Zouves said. “Savannah is scaled to human size, so we felt that this was the way we are going to go. We aren’t pretending to be grand opera, so all of our operas are scaled down.”

The operas have been designed with the modern audience in mind. They are shorter so they can be enjoyed in one sitting. They have been fitted to smaller spaces and, in turn, use a smaller ensemble, rather than a full orchestra. This enables them to tell the story in a different way.

“It allows people the cost effectiveness of seeing opera, as well,” Zouves said. “You’re not having to spend that much money for a ticket. By having the performances at smaller venues, it limits the seating capacity to, at most, 150 seats per show. So, for “La Bohéme,” we are going to do two performances at the Asbury Memorial Church. We are going to tell the story in about 75 minutes, and all of the hit tunes have been left in. The story is timeless. It is the story of “Rent” that we know and love.”

Local organizations have partnered with SVF to host and create this remarkable array of performances.

For the first time, SVF has partnered with WSAV-TV to not only take a look back on some of the highlights of last year’s performances, but also to offer a sneak peek at what this year’s events have in store.

Tune in to WSAV-TV at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 6 to watch an exclusive showing of key moments from last year and to see meet-and-greet introduction clips of the artists that are making this year’s season come to life.

“We are better through our partnerships; we are stronger and we feel part of our mission is to make that circle between ourselves and the community,” Zouves said. “To get that back and forth, or that conversation between the artists and the community is key to driving the relevance of music and its interconnective ability.”

SVF is making a “full circle” return to many locations; places where unforgettable performances set into motion the beginnings for the highly anticipated festival we are able to experience today, such as Asbury Memorial Church, Charles H. Morris Center, Davenport House Museum Garden, Demere Center for Living, Jewish Educational Alliance and Telfair Academy.

SVF has been spending their time in quarantine preparing for an unparalleled lineup after last year’s online festival.

“It’s crazy how exciting it is,” Zouves said when asked about the reintroduction of a live audience. “I don’t even know how I am going to feel when I get to see happy faces in the audience, and I hear human voices live.

It is absolutely thrilling. There will be that moment for all of us when we say, ‘Wow it feels good to be back.’ It’s like being away from home for a long time and finally returning to warm familiarity.”

Founded by opera legend Sherrill Milnes and soprano Maria Zouves, SVF is a non-profit arts organization that brings classical vocal excellence to the Savannah area through a celebration of concerts, events and educational presentations during the month of August and throughout the year.

SVF originally stemmed from its sister-organization, the non-profit VOICExperience Foundation, in 2011 which provides training opportunities for up-and-coming performance artists around the nation. These talented

PERFORMING ARTS

13

CULTURE

A backstage look at the 2019 Savannah VOICE Festival’s Pagliacci performance.

Photo courtesy of Savannah VOICE Festival

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL (continued)

14

performers are then brought to Savannah as a part of the SVF to provide them with an artistic home where they can continue to emerge as artists.

In an effort to alleviate the stresses of driving and parking in Downtown Savannah, SVF is pleased to be partnering with Old Town Trolley to provide shuttle services from The Landings to the performances for many of the 8 p.m. shows. Pick-up times are an hour before the show and the return is directly following the performance.

Reservations for shuttle services can be made at ci.ovationtix.com/35862.

Mayor Van Johnson, who opened the 2020 virtual festival said, “We are fortunate to be moving toward our new normal with the ninth annual Savannah VOICE Festival this year with a return to live audiences. We are reassured that SVF leaders are maintaining protocols to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 and look forward to welcoming visitors to the Hostess City this August – in person and online.” Face masks are required for entry to events. Limited seating will be socially distanced to ensure a safe environment for patrons.

“The experience we offer begins the moment someone decides to buy a ticket, not just the moment they buy it or the moment they attend, it really starts the minute they take a look at our brochure and they say, ‘I want to go!’” Zouves said. “That’s when the experience starts, so I want everyone to have a stress-free experience from beginning to end.”

Tickets are strongly encouraged to be purchased online in advance of the festival.

Tickets for events can be purchased at savannahvoicefestival.org. Ticket sales for each will close 12 hours prior to showtime for each event. Ticket pricing ranges from free - $50. Reserve your seat online today.

Tickets will be available at the door and will be $10 more than online pricing; however, due to limited seating capacities there is no guarantee that seats will be available.

PERFORMING ARTS

2021 Savannah VOICE Festival SCHEDULE OF EVENTS KICKOFF EVENT

SUNDAY, AUG. 8 - 5 P.M.

Jewish Educational Alliance - 5111 Abercorn St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD The Savannah VOICE Festival returns to a LIVE format for 2021! Meet the artists in this wonderful concert of your favorite opera, musical theatre, and song selections! Additional ticketed wine reception follows at 6 p.m.

MASTER CLASS I HOWARD WATKINS

TUESDAY, AUG. 10 - 1 P.M.

Demere Center for Living - 6000 Business Ctr Dr. FREE - RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Metropolitan Opera Assistant Conductor and VOICE Faculty member Howard Watkins presents a master class with the study grant artists of the Milnes VOICE Studio.

ARIA

TUESDAY, AUG. 10 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

Telfair Academy - 121 Barnard St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD Against the backdrop of the beautiful collection of the Telfair Academy, classical voices fill the rotunda with opera’s greatest hits and some rarely heard gems.

MASTER CLASS II FABRIZIO MELANO

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 11 - 1 P.M.

Demere Center for Living - 6000 Business Ctr Dr. FREE - RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Metropolitan Opera director Fabrizio Melano presents a master class with the study grant artists of the Milnes VOICE Studio.

HEADLINER - LIZ LANG, SOPRANO; HOWARD WATKINS, PIANO WEDNESDAY, AUG.11 - 6 P.M.

Telfair Academy - 121 Barnard St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD ATC 2019 Sherrill Milnes American Opera Award Winner Liz Lang - a fan favorite of the 2020 Stayat-Home Season VIII - performs a recital with pianist Howard Watkins. Additional ticketed wine reception to follow at 7 p.m.

Telfair Academy - 121 Barnard St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD Inspired by the great writers and poets, the festival shares great song literature that includes world premieres of new works with emerging composers and young writers from the Deep Center Savannah.

Asbury Memorial Church - 1008 East Henry St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD Just in time for the re-opening of Broadway theatres, festival artists share tunes to launch you back in time!

COFFEE

SATURDAY, AUG. 14 - 10 A.M.

Davenport House Museum Garden 324 East State St. $22.50 STANDARD Wake up with a fresh cup of coffee, some breakfast pastries and live music in the flower filled garden of the Davenport House Museum.

FEAST

SATURDAY, AUG. 14 - 5 P.M.

Asbury Memorial Church - 1008 East Henry St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD The workshop of Michael Ching’s “A Royal Feast.”

Savannah VOICE Festival joins with the Esther F. Garrison School for the Arts to present this imaginative story of Cinderella after her wedding to Prince Charming.

INSPIRATION

SUNDAY, AUG.15 - 5 P.M.

Asbury Memorial Church - 1008 East Henry St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD Led by Timothy L. Hall, and directed by Jessica Ann Best, this Festival favorite showcases the virtuosity and uplifting messages of sacred and spiritual music.

MASTER CLASS III - SHERRILL MILNES TUESDAY, AUG. 17 - 1 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden 10 East Broad St. FREE - RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Artistic Director of the VOICE Programs and legendary operatic baritone Sherrill Milnes presents a master class with the artists of the season. This program is supported in part by Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly.

FEMME

TUESDAY, AUG. 17 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden 10 East Broad St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD It’s a man’s world...or is it? Enjoy familiar opera arias, songs, and scenes with a new twist, while discovering music by women composers.

For more information, visit savannahvoicefestival.org.

FLASHBACK

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 18 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden - 10 East Broad St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD How did we get here and where are we going next? Join the stars of the Stay-at-Home Season on screen as they relive the performances you loved in a new live format that includes some greatest moments of our best streams.

LIVE

THURSDAY, AUG. 19 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden 10 East Broad St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD A year of online streaming bursts past the computer screens to the Morris Theater as we celebrate Savannah VOICE Festival LIVE! Artists you know and love along with the new faces of season nine, don’t miss the passion and legacy of great opera, hosted by Sherrill Milnes himself!

ROCK

FRIDAY, AUG. 20 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden 10 East Broad St. $45 PREMIUM; $27.50 STANDARD Who said opera singers can’t rock it?! Festival Artists are joined by the Elite Party Band for a night of your favorite radio hits.

COFFEE

SATURDAY, AUG. 21 - 10 A.M.

Davenport House Museum Garden 324 East State St. $22.50 STANDARD Wake up with a fresh cup of coffee, some breakfast pastries and live music in the flower filled garden of the Davenport House Museum.

BOHÉME

SATURDAY, AUG. 21 - 5 P.M.; 7:30 P.M.

Asbury Memorial Church - 1008 East Henry St. $50 PREMIUM; $32.50 STANDARD Possibly the most famous opera of all time, the Savannah VOICE Festival presents an abridged version of Puccini’s love story. Stage director Fabrizio Melano and Maestro Andrew Bisantz breathe new life into this timeless masterpiece.

FINALE

SUNDAY, AUG. 22 - 5 P.M.

Charles H. Morris Center at Trustees’ Garden 10 East Broad St. $50 PREMIUM; $32.50 STANDARD All good things must come to an end!

Celebrate the Savannah VOICE Festival Season Nine in this beautiful program as we look back on our LIVE Season and look forward to the tenth anniversary. Additional ticketed wine reception to immediately follow the show.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

SONG

THURSDAY, AUG. 12 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

BROADWAY

FRIDAY, AUG. 13 - 6 P.M.; 8 P.M.

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CULTURE

MAKING A LASTING

CONNECTION

OUR NEW ANONYMOUS DATING SERIES FOLLOWS TWO INDIVIDUALS ON THEIR QUEST TO MAKE A MATCH

By Lauren Wolverton

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

lauren@connectsavannah.com

16

One thing Savannah isn’t short on is date-night ideas. The city is full of great food to eat, beautiful streets to stroll and local artists to see perform. But between tourists only in town for the weekend and Savannah’s small-town, everyone-knowseveryone feel, finding someone to date may be harder than it sounds.

In hopes of relating to, entertaining, and inspiring our readers, Connect Savannah is following along as two singles navigate dating in the Hostess City.

We’ve partnered with Prestige Connections, a private matchmaking service for professional singles. Founder and CEO Amanda Rose is a nationally recognized matchmaker, and her business has been featured in Glamour, Forbes, Elite Daily and

other national media.

“We represent clients nationwide to help them find the highest quality, exceptional dates,” Prestige Connections said.

“All dates are pre-screened, hand selected and matched based on factors that create a long-term relationship.”

From here, Prestige Connections will get to know Reagan and Juan a little bit better, give them dating advice and styling tips and hopefully find them a match. Stay tuned this month as Connect Savannah follows their journey. We figure there’s only two possible outcomes: our team gives an awesome speech at a wedding one day, or everyone leaves with a really good new dinner-party story.

Our singles will be anonymous, under the names Reagan and Juan. So far, they’ve each taken the first step and filled out their Prestige Connections profiles. Let’s get to know them:

RELATIONSHIPS

MEET

MEET

AGE: 43 GENDER IDENTITY: WOMAN INTERESTED IN: MEN

AGE: 35 GENDER IDENTITY: MAN INTERESTED IN: WOMEN

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

REAGAN

Independent, hardworking, likes to have fun, travel and laugh. Interested in special needs advocacy and community outreach, hiking, movies, game nights. Mother to one college student with special needs. Divorced.

Christian.

RELATIONSHIP GOALS:

A loyal, but not constant, companionship. Someone who is extremely independent like she is with a good sense of humor. Open to a long-term partner. Not interested in marriage.

CS: How are you feeling?

R: Nervous. Nervous, curious, anxious.

CS: What are you looking for in a partner?

R: I need somebody that can match my sarcasm. Somebody that can be both playful and serious; somebody who can be a bit childish at times. I also like to be the boss. That’s my personality all the way around. While I like to be in charge, in a relationship I’d like for it to be an equal playing field.

CS: What was the easiest question to answer on the application?

R: My name! It was challenging to fill out the stuff about me, but not as challenging to fill out the stuff about what I want.

CS: And the hardest question?

R: “Tell me a little about you.” You have to figure out - in three or four sentences - how do I describe myself? What descriptive words are right for me? You don’t typically think about yourself in a descriptive way.

CS: Tell me a little about your dating history.

R: In the past 20 years, it’s been very casual. Nothing serious, just dinner here and there. There’s been several first dates and several second dates, but then I usually bail. I bailed because I was focused on my child. Over the last 20 years, I haven’t had a whole lot of experience because of that.

CS: How did you meet people you have dated in the past?

R: A lot of referrals from friends and clients, some in bars. Now, I don’t want to meet people in bars. That’s for people in their 20s. No dating apps.

At my age, you hang out with girlfriends who have husbands. And they hang out with other couples. In my younger years, my friends set me up on dates, and it’s not that way anymore. It’s kind of intimidating.

CS: Looking ahead, if you met the right person, would you want them to be in your life long-term?

R: Right now, my daughter and I are at the beginning of both of our lives.

Marriage is completely off the table; it’s not my thing. But we are just beginning our own separate lives. We’ll have to figure it out.

Outgoing and extroverted. Interested in fitness, socializing, non-profit work, movies, video games and the outdoors. No children. Never married. Catholic.

RELATIONSHIP GOALS:

A partner who wants to try new things with him. Someone funny and adventurous. Hopes to get married and have children one day.

CS: What did you think about the application?

J: The easiest question to answer was about what I want. Thinking about yourself can be hard. I’ve never done something like this before, so I was nervous going through it. But those questions do open your eyes to what you expect from somebody and what you really want.

CS: What are you looking for in a partner?

J: I know that I want to get married and start a family. I know that’s what I want eventually. I’m looking for someone who has a bubbly personality like me. Someone who wants to be outside. I know what I like, but I also want someone who can teach me new things. No one can complete you, but I think I want someone who can add to me and my life.

CS: Tell me about your dating history.

J: It’s been casual, just trying to find the right person. I’ve also been working on myself and my goals. I’ve wanted to accomplish some things for myself, so that I can focus on finding someone I want to spend the rest of my life with.

CS: What is your love language?

J: Acts of service, quality time and physical touch. I like to make someone feel special, and I like to feel wanted as a partner.

CS: How have you met dates in the past?

J: I’ve met people out with friends. I’ve never, ever been on the apps. I tried Tinder for like a week and said ‘I’m done.’ I like the old school way of meeting someone usually.

CS: Why do you think that your past relationships haven’t worked out?

J: I think it’s because I felt guarded. I put a wall up. I’ve learned that if you go into a relationship with the mentality that it will fall apart one day, then it will crumble. People change, too. In past relationships, we’ve grown to want different things. People can change, and I’ve been on both sides of it.

CS: Do you think that you are open and willing to let that guard down?

J: Of course. I think everyone wants to find someone that makes them happy, and I’m open to that. This whole process is exciting. You never know what will happen. I think that’s the fun part about it. It’s fun and also serious. Relationships are important to human life. Meeting somebody new is always exciting.

Are you dating in Savannah? How do you meet people and do you run into any problems? We want to hear about all kinds of couples! Send me an email at lauren@connectsavannah.com. And, learn more about Prestige Connections at prestigeconnections.us.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

CS: Why do you think your past relationships haven’t worked out?

R: Honestly, as the parent of a special needs kid, you cocoon everything.

You keep a tight knit group to protect your child. If you ask my daughter right now if I’ve ever dated since she’s been alive, she will tell you, ‘No, my mom has never been out on a date.’ That’s what you do. You protect them.

I would never let it work out. I would never let anybody in, on purpose.

JUAN

17

CULTURE

PLANTS APLENTY

Local Interior Plant Design Business Keeps Savannah in Bloom

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

By Brandy Simpkins brandy@connectsavannah.com

18

One local plant design company is responsible for the first impression of some of Savannah’s finest establishments.

“First impressions are everything,” said Savannah Interior Plant Design Owner Michael Skaff.

Those establishments include Perry Lane Hotel, the Drayton Hotel, the DeSoto Savannah, and one of their latest projects, the new Thompson Hotel, located at 201 Port St.

“Our business, unlike other interior landscapers, focuses not only on quality, service and selecting the right plant material, but it also has a lot to do with design elements,” Skaff said.

Savannah Interior Plant Designs is a premier interior landscape company.

Their professionally trained horticultural staff cultivates the environments of commercial and residential buildings with fresh flowering and foliage plants as well as assisting with silks, holiday decor and corporate gifting.

The owner, Skaff, is a revered designer with over 35 years in the floral industry.

Among other distinctions, his business was chosen as a floral designer for both the 1993 Clinton and 2001 and 2005 Bush Presidential Inaugurations.

It also served the 75th Annual Acad-

DESIGN

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 2PM-6PM

HALF PRICED APPS, $3 WELLS, $4 SELECT CRAFT BEER & DOMESTIC DRAFTS, $5 JAMESON & FIREBALL

TUESDAY

TRIVIA @7PM OPEN JAM SESSION @9PM

WEDNESDAY LIVE BLUES @9PM

THURSDAY TRIVIA @7PM KARAOKE @9PM

Savannah Interior Plant Design has brightened up many of Savannah’s most iconic spaces, from hotels to events. Photos courtesy of Savannah Interior Plant Design

LOCAL CHURCH MAKES SPLASH WITH BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT

By Beth Stewart

Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church hosts event for returning students

By Beth Stewart Students are being sent back to school with fellowship, food, and fun, courtesy of Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church in Richmond Hill.

The first ever “Back to School Splash” event will be held Saturday, Aug. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 15985 Ga. Highway 144, and the public is invited to join.

Fun activities for the whole family include a bounce house, wading pools, a splash pad, water balloons, outdoor games and more. To help everyone cool off, free popsicles will be provided from Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church, and the Let’s Taco ‘Bout It food truck will be on site so attendees can choose to purchase lunch while enjoying the freeadmission event.

“We are delighted to host this event,

open to all the community, as we head back to school,” said Spirit of Peace Pastor Devin Strong. “After the uncertain and exhaustive year and a half we’ve all just endured, we believe that everyone deserves a little bit of fun. This event is a way for our church to take a more active role in our community and provide a source of joy and camaraderie. We invite everyone in the community to come join us.”

Strong said they hope to receive at least 50 members of the church and community at the event. “The entire event is about kids and adults having fun on a hot day,” he said.

The mission of Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through ministry, promoting a lifestyle of worship and loving service through word and prayer.

For information about this event or Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church, please visit spiritofpeacelutheran.org.

KARAOKE

THURSAY-SUNDAY @9PM

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

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

emy Award Presentation - Oscars.

The experienced designer said when he begins a project, his eyes read the flow of the room, and he begins his calculations from there.

“The first thing we do is look at the brand direction of the company or the aesthetic of the private residence - is it traditional, contemporary?”

Skaff said. “Then, the first thing to do from an aesthetic point of view is to understand what the customer is looking for in a design. Then we analyze the air flow, and the heat and the way light comes into the room, and we determine what size, scale and texture the plants need to be. In selecting plants, we want to make a nice warm accent but never be intrusive of the environment.”

Skaff pointed to a potted bromeliad – a tropical flowering plant – providing an example of his process.

“We selected black glass containers because they went along with the checkerboard flooring, and we felt like the containers needed to have a contemporary flavor to them,” Skaff said. “We wanted a unique plant material that would last for the customer, so we decided to do two different bromeliads and give it height differentiation so when you’re looking in from the main lobby into this room the first thing that you see on the sofa table is an impactful plant.”

The Savannah Interior Plant Design team also shared that their work is beneficial in more ways than one.

“There are so many known health benefits that come from plants being in an environment,” Skaff said. “Just to name a few of them, they not only lift spirits, they help as a mood swing. They also increase the oxygen level. If I do an office space, the staff becomes more productive because they’re happier in their environment.

Plants are known to take bad bacteria out of the air.”

Savannah Interior Plant Designs technician, Stanley Walden, who does the handywork to turn Skaff ’s vision into a reality, said it is rewarding when they complete a project.

“I hear it all the time: ‘Oh, the flowers look great! I wish you could come to my house,’” Walden said. “When you have plants, you can’t help to feel alive when you walk into the room.”

Visit savannahinteriorplantdesigns. com to learn about the local plant design business.

19

THUR JULY 29

KING OF POP - A TRIBUTE TO THE GENIUS OF MICHAEL JACKSON

FRI JULY 30

THE ULTIMATE AEROSMITH TRIBUTE

SAT AUG 7TH A TRIBUTE TO STYX

FRI AUG 6

SAT JULY 31 FRI AUG 13TH FA-Q

THE STAGE PAGE LATIN NIGHT WITH DJ CESAR @ VICE LOUNGE + MOJITO BAR

Dominating the turntables every first Thursday of the month at VICE Lounge, DJ Cesar is a Southeast regional veteran who can read the floor and respond accordingly. He mixes all genres effortlessly, with a thumb on the Latin scale, to keep the party hopping.

THURSDAY, AUG 5 | 9 PM

SAT AUG 14TH INTERSTELLAR ECHOES A TRIBUTE TO THE ROLLING STONES

UPCOMING SHOWS AUG. 7 Grand Paradise - A Tribute to STYX AUG AUG 20 The 13 Bitterroots FA-Q AUG 14Petty Interstellar - A Tribute PinkTribute Floyd Show AUG 27 The Hearts Echoes - The National Tomto Petty 20 Stratton The Bitteroots AUG AUG 28 The James Trio AUG 27 The Petty Hearts - The National Tom Petty Tribute Show SEPT 3 Tribute - A Celebration of the Allman Bros. Band AUG 28 The Stratton James Trio SEPT 4 Slippery When Wet - A Tribute to Bon Jovi SEPT 3 Tribute -A Celebration of the Allman Bros. Band SEPT 11 Jupiter SEPT 4 Slippery When Wet - ACoyote Tribute to Bon Jovi SEPT 11 Jupiter Coyote

BREAKFAST IS BACK! 7-10:30 • TUESDAY - FRIDAY 8-11:30 • SATURDAY

BASSHOLE XIX @ THE WORMHOLE

Forever striving to find sub-zero frequencies to get lower than low, Savannah Bounce presents Basshole XIX. Taste the PsyKiss Designs visuals while the sonic creations of CLVLND, Skelector, Blvcklvng and more rain down like special tabs of confetti. So much low it’s comin’ out your basshole. FRIDAY, AUG 6 | 9 PM

IAN ABER @ THE WORMHOLE

The Comedy Planet series forges ahead with comedian and writer Ian Aber. The Atlanta-based comic was a national Finalist in NBC’s Stand Up For Diversity and hosts the “str8 ppl” podcast. In his act, Aber riffs on inescapable conversations with strangers, food as drugs, and fighting off attackers with cutting fashion criticism.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

SATURDAY, AUG 7 | 7:30 PM

20

HOWARD PAUL JAZZ TRIO @ MYRTLE & ROSE ROOFTOP GARDEN

3016 E. VICTORY DR. 912.352.2933 COACHS.NET

DOWNLOAD OUR APP!

Enjoy a beautiful view from a pleasant space with good food and the smooth sounds of a live jazz trio. You survived another Savannah weekend. Head down to Plant Riverside and accept your reward. You earned it, pal.

SUNDAY, AUG. 8 | NOON

MUSIC

FEATURE

LEFT: Dave “Dixie” Collins finds out the bar is out of bourbon Photo ©Xerxes-Foto ABOVE: Shep and Ramzi of Weedeater playing it slow Photo ©Paul Jones Photography

EL ROCKO BRACES FOR WEEDEATER, FRIENDS

By Frank Ricci

sealed the deal.

Despite Collins’ love of what he calls cavemetal, there will be more variety at El Rocko than you might expect.

Touring with Weedeater are Adam Faucett and Joe Buck Yourself. Collins describes Faucett as “kind of singersongwriter, along the lines of John Prine or Townes Van Zandt, but a little bit heavier.” A review of Faucett’s work confirms this. He’s a bit hard to describe, but very interesting, soulful and worth checking out.

“We like to mix stuff up and not have everything loud bombastic metal,” Collins explained. “I don’t like to go to shows and see four of the same thing and I imagine other people might feel the same way.”

Weedeater has played with Joe Buck before and Collins knows how crowds respond to the evil country punk oneman-band and veteran of Th’ Legendary Shack Shakers, Hank Williams III, and Assjack.

“We’ve played one-off shows before, but this is the first time we’re doing a run with him,” Collins said. “I love Joe, he’s a great dude. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Savannah hard rock innovators Sins of Godless Men kick things off at the oddly-precise 7:20 pm. Does Humboldt County local time come into play here? Consider this and all possibilities at a rock-and-roll rollercoaster of a show with the slowest ending you’ve ever seen.

AURA Fest presents Weedeater, Joe Buck Yourself, Adam Faucett and Sins of Godless Men at 7:20 p.m., Friday Aug. 6 at El Rocko Lounge.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

To the uninitiated, Dave “Dixie” Collins can easily be perceived as a scary guy. Known for making crazy Manson eyes on stage and accidentally shooting his big toe off while cleaning a shotgun, he’s certainly not a hippie death cult leader lacking in firearms safety skills. What Collins has accomplished is surviving 25 years in the music industry without compromising a damn thing.

Collins joined proto-sludge pioneers Buzzov*en on bass in 1997 and stayed for three years as their reputation for dangerous and violent shows grew. He then struck out on his own with current guitarist — and a favorite of The Melvins’ King Buzzo — Dave “Shep” Shepherd, along with original drummer Travis Owen, who years later helped launch Atlanta’s noise lords Whores. Former Buzzov*en drummer Ramzi Ateyeh joined Weedeater in 2019. After creeping along for more than two decades, the band has not sped up at all.

This should be apparent around three minutes into the Weedeater show Friday, Aug. 6, at El Rocko Lounge. The band is often placed in the sludge metal category, which is a fair assessment, but this is the thickest, heaviest sludge out there. It’s a shredded oil tanker full of sludge moving through a shallow stream of glue and huge chunks of other shredded oil tankers. The music is slow and grinding when it isn’t slow and pounding, and few do it better.

Weedeater is best experienced live, but for those interested in listening, Collins recommends “God Luck and Good Speed,” 2007, and “Jason…The Dragon,” 2011.

Each were recorded by the legendary Steve Albini, who also recorded Nirvana’s “In Utero” and has worked with PJ Harvey, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, Helmet, MeltBanana, Fugazi and Pixies. Albini is known for exacting standards and not mincing words about unprepared or unskilled musicians. To their credit, he named Weedeater the easiest bands to work with.

“When I first heard that I thought it was cool, but then I was like…what does he mean by that? Are we super easy or just dumb?” Colling laughs. “But Steve’s a great guy, and he’s the best at capturing that live sound and mic placement. And we’re essentially a live band.”

Collins grew up a punk rock kid listening to Bad Brains, Dead Kennedys and Circle Jerks. He was exposed to underground music by a friend’s older sister, an East Carolina U student who regularly taped and shared a punk and metal radio show. It opened his eyes. His existing mainstream tastes at the time steered him to Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden, and it’s no coincidence both bands include outstanding bass players who also write.

Like most teens at the time and place, country, classic and southern rock were always a part of the sound menu.

But those cassette tapes with bands like Anti-Nowhere League and a general “F. You” attitude fed his curiosity. The release of Black Flag’s “My War,” with its notoriously slow and crushing Side B — an early example of sludge metal —

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CONNECT SAVANNAH MUSIC

4-10

SOUNDBOARD

AUG/

WHO IS PLAYING WHERE THIS WEEK

WEDNESDAY 8/ 4 LIVE MUSIC

Cohen’s Retreat Midtown Pickers, 8th anniversary, 6 p.m.

Driftaway Cafe Chuck Courtenay, 6 p.m.

McDonough’s Blues with Eric Culberson, 9 p.m.

Mint to Be Mojito’s Open Mic at Mint to Be Mojito Bar, 5-11 p.m.

Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

El-Rocko Lounge Trivia with Jules and Chris Grimmett, 9-11:30 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.

Mint to Be Mojito’s Open Mic/Live Karaoke, 5-11 p.m.

Wet Willie’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

COMEDY

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

THURSDAY 8/ 5 LIVE MUSIC

Cohen’s Retreat Munchies & Music, 5-9 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Georgia Kyle Shiver, 7:30 p.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES Bar Food Trivia Night, 8 p.m.

McDonough’s Family Feud, 7 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

Nickie’s 1971 Karaoke Night, 8 p.m.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

COMEDY

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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.

4

WED// WED

MIDTOWN PICKERS’ 8TH ANNIVERSARY @ COHEN’S RETREAT, 6 P.M.

FRIDAY 8/ 6

SATURDAY 8/ 7

LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC

Congress Street Social Club Big Heart Collective, Bonnie Blue, 7 & 10 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Anders Thomsen, 7:30 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, 8 p.m.

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.

Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

DJ

Club 51 Degrees DJ Fer, DJ Emalo, DJ Lil G, DJ BRad, 9 p.m.

VICE Lounge + Mojito Bar DJ Primal, 9 p.m.

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

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

Coach’s Corner Grand Paradise - A Tribute to the Music of Styx, 7 p.m.

Congress Street Social Club Saffron Don, 10 p.m.

Ghost Coast Distillery Together in Paradise, showcasing Maggie Hayes, 3 p.m.

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Whiskey & Wine, 7:30 p.m.

Mars Theatre The Grand Tour: A Night of Classic Country, 7-9 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, 8 p.m.

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

Totally Awesome Bar Karaoke, 10 p.m.

DJ

Club 51 Degrees Dance Party

BAR & CLUB EVENTS

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

SUNDAY 8/ 8 LIVE MUSIC

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

Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup, 10 p.m.; Voodoo Soup, 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.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Moon River Brewing Co. Trivia, 6 p.m.

KARAOKE

Club One Karaoke, 10 p.m.

McDonough’s Karaoke, 9 p.m.

MONDAY 8/ 9 LIVE MUSIC

Nickie’s 1971 Ray Tomasino, 7 p.m.

The Wormhole Open Mic/Jam, 6-10 & 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

TRIVIA & GAMES

Club One Super Gay Bingo, 5:30 p.m.

Starland Yard Music Bingo, 7-9 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 8/10 LIVE MUSIC

McDonough’s Open Mic/Jam, 9 p.m.

Nickie’s 1971 Roy Swindell, 7 p.m.

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.; Trivia Night With Chris Grimmett, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Wormhole Trivia, 9:30 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.

SOUNDBOARD IS A FREE SERVICE - TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE SEND YOUR LIVE MUSIC INFORMATION WEEKLY TO SOUNDBOARD@CONNECTSAVANNAH.COM. DEADLINE IS NOON MONDAY, TO APPEAR IN WEDNESDAY’S EDITION. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OR CUT LISTINGS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS.

THE BAND PAGE

JOHN BERRY @ VICTORY NORTH

Join the Grammy-winning country artist as he celebrates 41 years in the business. Berry rose to stardom in the ‘90s with “Your Love Amazes Me” and he’s charted dozens of times since.

He’s also beaten cancer, undergoing brain surgery the day “Your Love Amazes Me” hit No. 1. This is a man with stories to tell and the talent to tell them well.

SATURDAY, AUG 7 | 8 PM

THE GRAND TOUR: A NIGHT OF CLASSIC COUNTRY @ MARS THEATER

Take a road trip 30 miles up Route 21 a bit past Rincon for a night of classic country music at the outstanding Mars Theater in downtown Springfield.

Grammy winner and two-time Canadian Country Music Association Independent Artist of the Year Gil Grand plays the best of George Jones, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and a hay bale more.

SATURDAY, AUG 7 | 7 PM

Featured elsewhere in this edition, Weedeater brings it slow and heavy. They also brought friends who aren’t slow and heavy.

Adam Faucett, Joe Buck Yourself and locals Sins of Godless Men get things started at the first show in the AURA Fest monthly series leading up to the 2022 festival. Release the anger from days without a Sea Wolf hot dog here.

FRIDAY, AUG 6 | 7:20 PM

GRAND PARADISE – A TRIBUTE TO STYX @ COACH’S CORNER If you love live music and haven’t been to the CC Soundgarden yet, do so ASAP. The venue slays the Three “S”-es: seating, service and sound.

Make it four with Styx tribute band Grand Paradise. Styx played reliable classic rock before releasing back-to-back concept albums, the hit-laden “Paradise Theater” and the way-different “Kilroy Was Here.” They both went platinum.

SATURDAY, AUG 7 | 7 PM

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

WEEDEATER @ EL ROCKO LOUNGE

23

MUSIC

FEATURE

GEORGIA NATIVE CRAIG CAMPBELL BRINGS COUNTRY SHOW TO VICTORY NORTH

By Noelle Wiehe

noelle@connectsavannah.com

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

Some might describe Craig Campbell as fame without a name — country music fans know his songs but his name isn’t quite household, yet.

24

“I’m from Georgia, so all of my songs are Georgia songs.”

Craig Campbell takes a seat during the pandemic, but looks forward to being on stage Aug. 12 at Savannah’s Victory North.

Photo courtesy of Campbell Entertainment Group

That’s been his Achilles heel, he said.

“I can’t tell you how many people come to shows saying ‘Oh my God, I had no idea you sang that song; it’s one of my favorite songs ever!’” Campbell said.

The Georgia-native country singer, songwriter is coming to Savannah’s Victory North to perform a live, acoustic set at 7 p.m.

Aug. 12 of his hit songs like “Family Man,” “Outskirts of Heaven,” and “Keep Them Kisses Coming,” as well as his new music.

“These acoustic shows are a lot of fun,” Campbell said.

Campbell’s highly anticipated single, “It’s About Time”, marks Campbell’s first independent release since parting ways with his former label, Broken Bow Records.

Hailing from Lyons, Campbell is looking forward to returning to his home state for the show.

“I’m from Georgia, so all of my songs are Georgia songs,” Campbell said. “It just so happens this is going to work out just right.”

His music video to his latest song “Never Mine,” which he filmed on Fort Myers Beach in Florida was just released and was premiered

by People magazine.

“Never Mine” was written by Campbell with Jim McCormick and Jacob Rice, and the emotional song is his first to receive a full radio promotion campaign in over three years, People wrote. The song had an incredible start in June as the third most-added single on country radio.

For Campbell, there was no plan B to playing country music.

“It was music or nothing else,” Campbell said. “This is it; I’m going to find a way to do it no matter what my circumstances are.”

That passion is what lead the country singer to continue to find ways to bring live music to his fans during the pandemic.

“People were ready to go and ready to listen to music, but there were no venues,” Campbell said. “We just basically said ‘Hey, throw a party in your backyard, sell tickets and we’ll come to you!’”

Campbell began the Craig Campbell Candid Tour where he took requests to play in backyards, living rooms, front porches, “you name it, I’m there,” he posted.

“I released four new songs in 2020 and still haven’t played them live for y’all - let’s change that,” Campbell said.

He said that tour brought him to places he’d never played before and was a great way to release his new music among groups of people who were able to host those gatherings.

“I think it’s a lot of fun,” Campbell said.

“We’ve done several and it’s been great so far.”

The aspect of performing live has returned full swing, nearly, and Campbell said performing these big, live shows has been something he has truly missed.

“I’ve got to be honest; I took it for granted for a while,” Campbell said. “I didn’t realize how precious that was and how easily it could be taken away from us.”

He looks forward to the stops on his tour.

“We are very excited to be getting back to work and having shows to play and singing to people face-to-face and seeing their teeth,” Campbell said. “Never thought you could be excited to see somebody’s teeth after you don’t see them for a whole year.”

His tour started in Ohio July 17 and moves to the southeast through August, when you can catch him at Savannah’s premier venue for live music. Jordan Rager, American country singer from Loganville and Savannah-native country duo Lyn Avenue will open the show.

“I’m glad people are showing up and just ready to have a good time,” Campbell said.

Tickets for Craig Campbell Acoustic at Victory North Savannah at 2603 Whitaker St., are on sale at craigcampbell.tv/tour and victorynorthsavannah.com/concerts. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m.

Fashion Column

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR STYLE Photo courtesy of Andy Gross

By Danietté Thomas

COMEDIAN TO PERFORM MIND BOGGLING MAGIC AT COMEDY VENUE ANDY GROSS PRESENTS “SPLIT MAN”

By Angie Miller

body you did before the pandemic.

Next thing is to define yourself with your clothes; your wardrobe should speak for you. Style simply says something about you, without you having to open your mouth. So, speak clearly. My athleisure I mentioned earlier for instance is an excellent way to show: I like quality, resistant, efficient clothes. It also says, “I’m a working woman - I not only like to be comfortable, but I profess in it; it’s a necessity.”

Now, the girl next door who wears suits five-days a week and speaks with her shoe choices would speak with the print on her blouses as well. Bright-accent blazers with a messy bun, and Chanel frames show who you are in any season. Want to amp it up? Keep the colors relevant to the season. Easy.

It’s still summer. So bright colors are everywhere. Not a bright color person?

Use the silhouettes - think A-line or pencil skirt - you wear to say “summer,” or add color in accessories. Easy.

Now my last tip for this column would be to keep it simple. Don’t buy the dress you can’t fit - no matter how cute it is because then you need the girdle to get you in it, and now you feel self-conscious about it. Then the next thing that happens is you end up overdoing the accessories, and then there’s your hair and nails. At the end of the day, you’ve spent over $800, and you still lack confidence walking into the room.

So, you heard it from me first: simple is modern and very chic. Even if your main piece is simple - get what fits.

Stretch is your friend and your style can be elevated in plenty of other ways. Think a bold blazer, a statement accessory or even just popping on your cutest heels to complement. Comfortable equals confident, and before you know it you’ve created a style that’s just right.

For more tips on all things style, check out my Instagram: @designerdaniette Yours in Fashion, Danietté

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

Best known for a hilarious prank, with over 500 million views and counting, internet sensation Andy Gross is a multi-talented, nationally recognized entertainer who combines stand-up comedy, magic and ventriloquism on stage. His “Split Man” trick premiered on YouTube in 2013 before being showcased on a variety of national platforms - The Ellen Show, ABC, CBS, FOX, CNN and MTV. Now, the Savannah community will have the chance to see Gross live, Saturday Aug. 14 at the Savannah Comedy Revue.

A unique spin on the classic cut-in-half illusion that he dubs the "Split Man" trick, Gross pranks his audiences by making it appear as though he’s been severed in two but yet still able to walk around. Since “Split Man’s” debut, Gross has gotten calls from not only major television networks, but from all around the world asking him to appear.

“When I started doing split man and put it on video, I received calls from around the world asking me to perform,” said Gross. "The Internet is so big, so vast. I would never have thought something like that would have taken off. I’ve done shows all around the world — people have contacted me from Dubai, Israel and India.”

Gross will bring other large-scale illusions to the stage - puppet characters. Among the more notable puppet characters audiences will meet is Steve. “Steve is a customer service guy who dispenses computer repair support by telephone,” Gross said. “He’s witty; he’s funny; he’s random.” Gross has frequently been compared to Don Rickles and Robin Williams for his rapid-fire ad libs, dry comedic humor, and his ability to throw his voice. His talent as a ventriloquist has been put to use in television series such as Beverly Hills, 90210 and Las Vegas, as well as in the sci-fi Web series After Judgment.

With the growing popularity of shows like “America’s Got Talent,” magicians and ventriloquists have grown traction among audiences in recent years.

“Two magicians and three ventriloquists have won AGT,” Gross said. Comedian Jeff Dunham has been performing ventriloquist stand up acts for a long time. People have always been fascinated with magic and I think with the growing popularity of talent shows, magicians and ventriloquists have really made a comeback in the comedy world.”

Other mind-boggling acts audiences can expect to witness include Gross’ ability to read minds, turn an audience volunteer into his human puppet and make a signed $100 bill vanish and reappear inside of an orange.

“My show will be sophisticated and fun, perfect for an adult date night out,” Gross said.

The performance starts at 8 p.m., admission is $15 for stadium seating and $25 for VIP. Must be 21 or older to attend. To purchase tickets, call or text 314-503-9005 or for information, visit savannahcomedyrevue.com.

So often, budget guides our style when it should really be the other way around.

Finding your style first lets you budget and feel good in what you wear. You have some who just buy what they need, others who just buy according to what’s going on, others who borrow and others who are lost in the sauce. But I know my readers are interested in how we can amplify the style they already have without spending thousands of dollars a month, or having to splurge for a specific occasion. So, I’ll start with giving you all my definition of style, and my opinion on where it stands in 2021. Then, we’ll tackle some ways to get that closet together - Let’s get into it.

So, for me, style is what you make it, especially in the south. Post pandemic, we are all just grateful to be alive, so we wear what makes us happy. For some of us, that means being on trend, staying in the know, being one of the more stunning people in the rooms we walk into. For others - like me - that’s flexing in my bougie athleisure. But the big secret is true style is not elevated by being on trend; your look is always going to be memorable when you know your body enough to know how to dress it. We’ll go more in depth about body types in another issue, but this week as you look to create a signature style, do it with your body type in mind. Focus on filling your closet with a style that’s all you.

Now listen up: the first recommendation I have to create your style is to stop wearing ancient things in your closet. Yes, I said ancient. If you’ve had it for many, many, many years, it’s holding you back. Now I know I have some readers that are into vintage; I am right next to you. How long have you had that vintage attire though - 10, 20, 30 years? Some of us have clothes that are older than our grown children. “Chuck ‘em!” I mean it! Especially post-pandemic.

Life is too short. Now, this doesn’t mean buy everything new, but simply take one month’s budget to replace the needed staples of anyone’s closet - t-shirts, camis, leggings, etc. You owe it to yourself, and I am willing to bet you don’t have the same

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CONNECT SAVANNAH

4-10

ART PATROL CONTINUING EXHIBITS

‘Out of the Mouths of Madness’ by Maxx Feist

Beginning July 21, Sulfur Art Services presents Out of the Mouths of Madness by Maxx Feist. This solo exhibition on display at The Sentient Bean is made up of mixed media pieces and prints on metal of monsters swimming in a smorgasbord of geometric shapes and colors with pink being a necessity.

Feist says, “The colors are fun; the monsters are mine” as she uses the work to display art that evolved from a place of crippling social anxiety, mental anguish, great fear, great beauty, love, and an overload of caffeine. sulfurstudios.org/ maxx-feist-sentientbean. sentientbean. com.

The Sentient Bean 13 E. Park Ave.

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

‘Live Your Vision: An Online Exhibition’

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Live Your Vision brings together a wide range of Kiah’s figurative works, from casual self-portraits to regal military portrayals to life drawings. Using an array of media — oil, watercolor, and graphite on supports including canvas, Masonite, and paper — Kiah captured the essence of family, friends, celebrities, and strangers alike. Individually, these portraits are acts of attention, focus, and dignity. Taken as a whole, the exhibition

reflects Kiah’s deep belief in humanity and the vital role of inspiration and creativity in re-envisioning our future. Online scadmoa.org

‘Southbound’

Southbound is an art exhibit visually interpreting Georgia’s vibrant and diverse musical heritage. Fifteen songs have been selected to form the 2021 Arts on the Coast Annual Exhibit Playlist, a list that includes only music performed, arranged, written, composed, produced, and/or created by a music artist from Georgia. The selection features a wide variety of genre: rock, jazz, pop, and R&B, to soul, country and folk.

Artists shall create an original work of art that depicts a song/ artist and/or its various aspects, to visually interpret the obvious to the abstract, from the down and dirty, to the sublime.

9123985776. deepsouthphotopoint. com/southboundvirtual.

Deep South Photopoint Gallery 30 Cherokee St.

‘Rejewled’ by Monica Cioppettini In ReJeweled, Monica Cioppettini (M.F.A., painting, 2020) uses reclaimed jewelry from flea markets and thrift stores to create maximalist collage works. Reworking the jewelry through an intuitive process of breaking, combining, and rebuilding,

Cioppettini revalues objects that have been deemed worthless and unwanted, reveling in their histories and significance as sites of memory. Rimed with rust, grime, cracks, and imperfections, the works reveal their relationship with time and encourage moments of nostalgia. $0-10 scadmoa.org/ exhibitions/rejeweled. scadmoa.org/.

SCAD Museum of Art 601 Turner Blvd.

‘Re-Cor-Dare’ by Sauda Mitchell

Re-Cor-Dare is a solo #art912 exhibition of Savannah-based artist Sauda Mitchell (American, b. 1981). Mitchell’s prints, paintings, and artist books serve as compelling visual responses to her sustained engagement with archival collection materials. In researching personal papers, photographs, artifacts, and curated digital collections, her work explores thematic topics of study relating to the Black experience.

Utilizing QR codes, selected works link to digitized collection materials focusing on their ability as teaching tools recalling stories embedded within the African American collective memory. Every 7 days. telfair.org/exhibitions/ re-cor-dare-saudamitchell/. telfair.org/ jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts 207 West York St.

‘A Message from

AUG/ Venus’ by Christto & Andrew

In A Message from Venus, the duo’s first U.S. museum exhibition, the artists present recent photographs that speak to our globalized culture at a time when our relationships to and experiences of image-making technology are dissimilar.

The artists’ photographs proffer objects loaded with symbolism and figures that paradoxically seem to inhabit a place neither past nor future that could exist within various cultural systems... more on Scadmoa.org $10 scadmoa.org/ exhibitions/a-message-from-venus. scadmoa.org/.

SCAD Museum of Art 601 Turner Blvd.

‘Vehicles of Change’ by AnneSolene Bayan

This exhibition will consider the pivotal role the automobile played in advancing societal and political revolutions in the United States in the 20th century. During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, buses and cars were used to combat systematic racism and segregation enforced

by Jim Crow. This was exemplified most famously in the Montgomery bus boycott and in the Freedom Riders’ journeys to the South... more on telfair. org. 5-20 Every 7 days.

3288.blackbaudhosting.com/3288/tickets?. telfair.org/jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts,

207 West York St.

‘Before Midnight: Bonaventure and the Bird Girl’

Telfair Museums presents Sylvia Shaw Judson’s iconic sculpture Bird Girl within the context of the history and art of Bonaventure Cemetery.

Made famous by Jack Leigh‘s photograph for the cover of John Berendt’s bestselling novel of Savannah, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Judson’s sculpture was removed from the cemetery to Telfair Museums where it has been enjoyed by visitors for decades... more on telfair.org $5-20 telfair.org/jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts 207 West York St. CONTINUING CLASSES

Date Night: Fully Inspired Elephant & Giraffe

Painting with a Twist offers a guided couple paint night. Paint a Fully Inspired Elephants and Giraffe with a special other on Saturday evening.

Choose between a traditional canvas or wooden plank to create your art. $37-47 paintingwithatwist. com. Painting with a Twist, 513 E. Oglethorpe Ave.

Intermediate to Advanced Jewelry Making

Perfect for the student who has experience with basic tools and techniques and is ready to keep building

their skillset. Focused on design execution and process, you will learn to successfully combine techniques into pieces that require multiple soldering operations, forethought, and planning.

This class will cover bezel and flush stone setting techniques.

Projects are in copper and brass. Students can purchase silver as desired. $200 9:30 a.m.-noon christina@dreamcatstudio.com dreamcatstudio.com/ classes Dreamcat Studio Hover Creek RD.

Alexander Hamilton at the Davenport House

The Davenport House Museum will host a series of lectures about American patriot Alexander Hamilton on Tuesdays in July and August. Accompanying each lecture will be a one-woman performance about Rachel Faucette, Hamilton’s mother. Lectures begin in the house’s garden at 6:30 p.m. and performances begin at 7:15. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved inside the museum, which is located at 324 E. State St. in Savannah. The audience will be limited to 15 attendees.

6:30 p.m.. davenporthousemuseum.org.

Davenport House 324 East State St.

CULTURE

ART

MEET BETH LOGAN:

Connect Savannah’s Newest Art Writer

TOP: 10x10 oil ‘Palms and Power Lines’ BOTTOM: 5x7 oil ‘Home Grown Vidalias’ Images provided by Beth Logan

CONNECT SAVANNAH | AUG 4 - 10, 2021

Greetings Savannah! I’m excited to begin writing about artists and art happenings for Connect Savannah twice monthly. I’ve been here long enough to remember when Tim Rutherford was the editor of the now defunct Coastal Art & Antiques and to remember when Allison Hersh was the art critic for the local paper. Without a doubt, some prestigious art writers have come before me.

I am originally from Portrush, Northern Ireland, and emigrated to San Francisco after attending the University of Belfast. My photographer - and ex - husband brought us to Savannah, and it has been my passion to get to know and to be involved in the local art community ever since.

As director of marketing and volunteer services with nonprofit Hospice Savannah, I always said that coordinating the Hospice Savannah Art Gallery was the smallest, but most fun, part of my job. It was so gratifying to find new and established artists and give them an opportunity to showcase their work. I am hoping that my role as a contributor to Connect will afford me the chance to continue that, and I look forward to profiling artists, creatives, galleries and shows.

Last year’s pandemic was the catalyst for me to leave Hospice Savannah after more than 20 years, enabling me to take more trips with my husband and tour guideextraordinaire, Steve; to visit our daughters Jennifer - with newborn son Max - in Atlanta, and Molly - baby girl due Thanksgiving Day - in Washington, D.C.; to take more yoga with Savannah Power Yoga or with Meg Shuba in our beautiful Forsyth Park; to host more dinner parties; and to join a plein air painting group with a goal of creating a new landscape or still life in oils each week. Writing about our vibrant local art scene seems like a good complement to all of that.

‘Til next time, reach me at BethLogan1733@gmail.com, find me on Instagram @bethelogan or contact me at 912-351-9586.

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JONESIN’ CROSSWORD

“Yes, Lieutenant”--an unexpected ending.

by Matt Jones

M ILY 12- 8P A D N E P O

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ACROSS 1 Disappear gradually 5 Olivia of 2018’s “The Predator” 9 Off-price event 13 “Amadeus” director Forman 14 Mayberry kid 15 “Fathers and Sons” novelist Turgenev 16 Lazy attempt at a scare?

18 Repair books, in a way 19 Gather in the field 20 1,000,000,000 years, in geology 21 Secondary songs, once 23 Celeb’s promoter 25 2020 Pixar offering 26 Santana hit based on a bank?

32 Actor Whishaw 35 Detach, as a trailer 36 Small jazz combo 37 Wilson of “The Office” 39 “Ah, I see” 40 Many are empty for the 2020 Olympics 41 East, in Spain 42 Deliberately misinforms 44 Primus frontman Claypool 45 News anchor Lester on location in California?

48 Spike Lee’s “___ Gotta Have It” 49 Incurred mobile charges, maybe 53 With 61-Across, cheap price on some granular seasoning?

56 Lower, as lights

58 Almond ___ (toffee candy) 59 Singer Ora 60 See 54-Across 63 God on an eight-legged horse 64 “Voice of Israel” author Abba 65 Mother of Perseus 66 Social Distortion frontman Mike 67 Prepare the laundry 68 Bedframe strip DOWN 1 Clerk at work 2 “Half ___ is better than none” 3 Strong drink also called double espresso 4 Sixth sense letters 5 “Got My ___ Working” (Muddy Waters classic) 6 Second word of “The Raven” 7 Nothing, on scoreboards 8 Laptop with a smaller screen 9 Make a hissing sound 10 Ready and eager 11 “Stay in your ___” 12 Has a series finale 13 Abbr. on a new car sticker 17 Country home to Mocha 22 Its U stands for “utility” 24 Olympic runner Jim who later became a congressman 25 Squish down 27 Groups on risers 28 Gasped with amazement 29 River through Kazakhstan 30 Miller beer brand

31 Play some Cornhole 32 Make kombucha 33 Lack of intensity 34 They can be picked 38 They may have tickets at Barclays Center 40 Millennium Falcon pilot 42 Brother of Ophelia, in “Hamlet” 43 Singer nicknamed “The Velvet Fog” 46 “Never heard of them” 47 Foot bone-related 50 Disney title character voiced by Auli’i Cravalho 51 Flamboyance, from the French 52 Time to remember 53 “___: Legacy” (2010 sci-fi sequel) 54 Like the Amazon River 55 Singer Redding 56 One of the few words not to be repeated in “Happy Birthday” 57 “It just ___ my day” 61 “Succession” network 62 Flyer contents

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

PHOTOS FROM LOCAL EVENTS

Photos by Bunny Ware

View more photos online at connectsavannah.com/connected

208 WINE BAR RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY Savannah’s newest primary wine bar held a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, July 27, at their 208 E. Bay Street (Factor’s Walk) location. The owners also announced they would feature a monthly charity, and present a special wine offering in which 50% of the earnings will go to help a local nonprofit in need. August’s proceeds will benefit Team Savannah for Vets.

Brittany Howard, Ansley Connor, Anjuli King

Nancy Turcotte, Sandi Prosnitz

Alison O’Malley, Kristy Crill, Chris O’Malley, Emily Crill

Mindy Shea, Kim Webster, Sharon Love

Shannon Lowery, Erika Backus, Barbara Pearson

Jan Vach, Tess Agaybi

Stephen Plunk, Marshall Tuck

James Divine, Christina Pirovits

PHOTOS FROM LOCAL EVENTS

Photos by Jaida Maceyko

View more photos online at connectsavannah.com/connected

Bill Lucas, Margaret Lanier, Wallace Moye, Angie and W.D. Moye Jr.

Maggie Mulligan, Ashlynn Hale

Karen and Ladson Hancock

Kim Batts, Deanna Corley

Bryan and Jenny Lobel

SAVANNAH AMBUCS 10TH ANNUAL CELEBRITY BOWLAPALOOZA KICKOFF This annual fundraiser—held this year on July 22 at The Landings Palmetto Club—supports AMBUCS programs for people with different abilities, including providing those in need with adaptive three-wheeled ‘Amtrykes’, bowling opportunities, and scholarships.

The overall goal of Savannah AMBUCS is to inspire people to conquer challenges related to mobility and independence.

Helen Johnson, Belle, Brooke and Angie Jackson

Dr. Brent Stubbs, Danielle Stubbs

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