Okefenokee Living Summer 2025

OKEFENOKEE

L I V I N G

featured stories

KD’S CAFE THIRTY YEARS OF FOOD AND FRIENDSHIPS

REAL WEDDINGS LOVE FILLED THE GAP

A TEAM WAY ABOVE PAR PCHS LADIES GOLF TEAM

ARebornCottage

Parker Lee (Zach’s brother), Blythe Knowlton, Grier Knowlton, Cliff & Ellen Knowlton, Presley, Zach Lee, Max & Jane Silman (Zach’s mother and stepfather)

Support & Training

GPT's telehealth subject matter experts provide consulting services to assist organizations build customized implementation and training programs.

Provide account management to include account creations, changes, orders, and more. Provide training for healthcare professionals involved or interested in clinical telemedicine and telehealth services.

Promote improved health outcomes in rural, underserved and urban communities by leveraging digital technology tools and platforms.

Assist health care systems nationally with the development of telehealth programs that consider the needs of underserved and underrepresented communities.

Partnerships & Collaboration

GPT works with you to implement a broad range of telehealth approaches to improve access to care and address health disparities. Our established network with over 1400 users include community based partnerships with hospitals, school systems, federally qualified health centers, public and private clinics, skilled nursing facilities, public health, colleges/universities, and many more.

Hardware/Software Solutions

We offer a variety of turnkey telehealth hardware solutions to meet the needs of anyone needing to conduct telehealth consultations as well as remote patient monitoring tools. Items include but are not limited to clinical carts, laptops, desktops, tablets, and exam peripherals based on clinical needs.

from the PUBLISHER

With each issue of Okefenokee Living, we delve deeper into the region’s rich cultural tapestry, vibrant artistic expression, and thriving entrepreneurial spirit. One thing we never worry about is finding enough meaningful stories for each issue—there seems to be a never-ending flow!

This issue’s Home section includes stunning interior designs and tips on how to make your own space a place that defines your style. We celebrate KD’s Café’s 30-year anniversary, South Georgia State College’s record-setting men’s basketball coach, and the PCHS Lady Bears golf team’s fourth straight state championship. We revisit the story behind the legacy of Pierce Timber Company and provide a closer look at community leaders such as Waycross City Manager Duke Rayford, Waycross Chamber Director Suzanna Woodall, and Okefenokee Country Club Director Terry Breden.

We rely on the support from other members of the community who are just as committed as we are to publishing meaningful stories that deserve to be told. Allen Allnoch of AHA! Photography has been instrumental in finding story leads, writing, and

photography for the last several years, and for that we are truly grateful. A new member of our team whose talent we’ve come to greatly appreciate is Brittany Jury of Brittany Jury Photography. Of course, the advertisers around the region are the reason we have Okefenokee Living in the first place. They see the merit in investing their advertising dollars with us, and we don’t take that relationship lightly. Please see the Index of Advertisers on the back page and visit their places of business. Shop locally, and thank them for what they do to help grow and maintain this thriving community.

We also thank you, our readers! Your interest and enthusiasm are what motivate us to continue publishing Okefenokee Living. Follow and like us on social media and leave a comment to let us know what you think. Maybe you’ll find yourself in the next “From Our Readers” section.

As summer winds down, temperatures cool, and things heat up under the Friday night lights, be sure to take a moment to sit down and relax with this issue. In the meantime, we’ll be busy finding more great stories to tell in the next one!

OKEFENOKEE

SUMMER 2025

PUBLISHERS

John F. & Connie K. Riddle

Showcase Publications, Inc.

MANAGING EDITOR

Allen Allnoch

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Robin Harrison

COVER PHOTO

Brittany Jury Photography

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Allen Allnoch/AHA! Photography

Joy Sumner Photography

Brittany Jury Photography

Okefenokee Heritage Center

Pierce County High School

Dari Thomas

Terri DeLoach

Caitlin Ogden Photography / Ag South Farm Credit

Theresa Alonso / Captured Gravity Photography

Harley Davis

Emma Kirchoff Photography

Hospice Satilla

Savannah Varnadore

Jason Mitchell

Robert Wallace

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Dupont

Allen Allnoch

EJ Pond

Brandon Chonko

Patrick Simmons

John F. Riddle

Marlana Hufstetler

Julie Tanner

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Russ Hutto

ILLUSTRATIONS

Robin Harrison

PROOFING

Amy Faeskorn

Marlana Hufstetler

John & Connie Riddle /okefenokeelivingmagazine

Okefenokee Living is published semi-annually by Showcase Publications, Inc. (912) 424-3027 – P.O. Box 391 Jesup, GA 31598 www.showcasepublicationsga.com

All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. The opinions expressed by the writers are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Brittany Jury, Zach Lee, and Connie Riddle with Zach’s Goldendoodle, Presley, in Zach’s courtyard. See his cottage featured in the Home section.

FROM OUR READERS...

Take Okefenokee Living with you when you travel. Snap a photo with it, send it to us, and you may see it here!

okefenokeeliving okefenokeelivingmagazine

Dear Okefenokee Living ,

“We got our magazines yesterday and were so impressed with the story! Thank you again for telling our story and including us in your beautiful magazine. We are honored and will treasure it.” –Janin Bruce

“We’re super excited about the magazine! It looks amazing. Everyone is so pleased. Thank you for doing such a great job.”

–Brad Arington

“I absolutely LOVE IT!!!”

–Hannah Grant

“I’m always looking forward to the next issue. They do a great job of creating a magazine.”

–Ann

Gillis

“Thank you so much for all you have done for us by sharing the amazing articles on the Waycross Justice Center.”

–Heather Flowers

“Great article!”

–Catherine Byrd

“Pierce County is blessed to have Brandon and his wonderful family in our school system. They represent our Blackshear and PCHS with utmost integrity and pride. They are what Pierce County is all about—family and love of our Pierce County Bears.”

–Fredia Hill

Real Weddings

Mara Yawn, Liz Thigpen, Zach Lee, Deisy Pineda, Kaylee Taylor, Imelda Mendoza, Rachel Hamilton, Hannah West, Sirena Cady

ECONOMIC IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS

CURRENT ANNUAL IMPACT

800,000: Number of annual visits

$91.5 million: Annual economic output

750: Number of jobs

$5.4 million: Tax revenue impact on surrounding counties

GROWTH FROM THE OKEFENOKEE EXPERIENCE

362: New jobs during construction

$46 million: Produced in additional economic output

$4.6 million: Generated in total tax revenue

40+: New permanent jobs

$430,000: Generate in annual tax revenues

WORLD HERITAGE SITE DESIGNATION POTENTIAL IMPACT

1.4 – 1.6 million: Total number of annual visits by 2035

750: New jobs

$60 million: Total economic output

THE BEATING HEART OF SOUTHEAST GEORGIA

The Okefenokee Swamp is not just a landscape—it’s a spiritual, ecological, and cultural treasure. Revered by the Muscogee Nation as “the shaking water in a low place” and described by author Janisse Ray as “gigantic, ethereal, god-touched,” this remarkable place defies ordinary description. It’s a sanctuary of biodiversity, a cradle of cultural memory, and the beating heart of Southeast Georgia.

Spanning 438,000 acres, the Okefenokee is the largest intact blackwater wetland in North America. Its pristine hydrology makes it a vital benchmark for global wetland research and a living classroom for generations of learners. Designated a National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in 1937,

the Okefenokee holds multiple prestigious recognitions:

• A Ramsar Wetland of International Importance

• A National Natural Landmark

• A designated National Wilderness Area

• Currently under consideration for World Heritage Site Inscription

Despite this acclaim, the region around the swamp struggles economically. High poverty, low educational attainment, and lack of infrastructure continue to a ect rural communities like Waycross, Folkston, and Fargo. The Okefenokee Experience is poised to shift this narrative.

“MY HOMETOWN HAS BEEN RIPE FOR CHANGE... I’M GLAD WE'RE GETTING STARTED.” –CHAMP BAILEY,

RETIRED NFL PLAYER & OKEFENOKEE SWAMP PARK BOARD MEMBER

THE OKEFENOKEE EXPERIENCE: A VISION FOR PLACE AND PEOPLE

A bold, regional initiative, led by Okefenokee Swamp Park (OSP), Inc., that connects conservation, education, and cultural heritage through the development of immersive centers in the gateway communities of Waycross, Folkston, and Fargo, Georgia.

The Okefenokee Experience is a direct investment in experiential learning. With over 36,000 students in the Okefenokee RESA region and 100,000 students within a 90-mile radius, this initiative will expand access to science education, outdoor learning, and local history. New facilities will allow OSP to deepen its long-standing partnership with the Okefenokee RESA and higher education institutions like the University of Georgia.

It is also a direct investment in our region by supporting short-term construction and tourism-related jobs through increased visitor spending on lodging, dining, and local attractions. The state of Georgia has already pledged $5 million in funds for this initiative. The three new infrastructure projects at separate entrance sites to the Okefenokee are:

• WAYCROSS, WARE COUNTY

The Okefenokee Experience Nature Center will be revitalized as a regional environmental hub with new exhibits, research spaces, and learning hubs.

• FOLKSTON, CHARLTON COUNTY

The Cultural History and Community Center will explore the stories of the rich history of Native Americans, formerly enslaved people, and “swampers,” who each tapped the resources of the swamp in varied ways. The space will also o er a vibrant space for events and entrepreneurship.

• FARGO, CLINCH COUNTY

A Dark Sky Observatory, situated underneath the darkest skies on the east coast, has the potential to become a research hub.

Supporting the Okefenokee Experience is more than support for the gateway capital projects. It’s a rare opportunity to:

• Inspire generations through meaningful outdoor learning

• Support rural prosperity through nature-based tourism

• Protect an irreplaceable ecosystem on a global scale

• Celebrate a region’s resilience and diverse cultural heritage

“THREE RURAL COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH GEORGIA ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO CAPITALIZE ON THEIR GREATEST REGIONAL ASSET, THE OKEFENOKEE SWAMP.” –JENNY ROBBINS, GEORGIA

A NATIONAL TREASURE WITH GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE

THE OKEFENOKEE IS NOT JUST GEORGIA'S TO CHERISH, BUT THE WORLD'S TO PROTECT

The Okefenokee Swamp is a globally rare ecosystem of extraordinary ecological, geological, and cultural value. As one of the most intact blackwater wetlands on Earth and one of North America’s oldest natural landscapes, it o ers an unparalleled glimpse into the planet’s natural history shaped over millennia by fire, water, and time.

In 2022, OSP formed a public-private partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to pursue World Heritage Site designation. This e ort culminated in December 2023 when the U.S. Department of the Interior selected the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge as the nation’s sole nomination for inscription in 2026, which is when the decision will be made.

A GROWING MOVEMENT WITH BROAD-BASED SUPPORT

The World Heritage nomination is supported by a powerful coalition: tribal representatives, scientists, school educators, grassroots organizers, conservationists, and elected o cials, including Congressman Buddy Carter, Chancellor Sonny Perdue, and both of Georgia’s United States Senators.

THIS IS MORE THAN A DESIGNATION—IT’S A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION OPPORTUNITY FOR GEORGIA, THE U.S., AND THE WORLD.

Become a true steward of one of America’s last great wild places. Every gift to Okefenokee Swamp Park brings a shared vision to life: inspiring visitors through world-class education, conserving fragile habitats, and safeguarding the wonder and legacy of the Okefenokee for generations to come. Your support powers essential conservation work, interpretive storytelling, and immersive experiences that connect people to the heart of this extraordinary ecosystem.

okeswamp.org/give Kim.Bednarek@okeswamp.org 904-207-8057

Creative Imaging That Tells Your One-Of-A-Kind, Extraordinary Story Serving Waycross-Ware County and the Surrounding Region

Celebrate Your Family with Beautiful Custom Artwork for the Home

Meals and entertainment are fleeting experiences. Even the most expensive furniture eventually wears out. But custom wall art and albums are a lasting investment for the ages. Beautifully created family portraits in your home are daily reminders of the people you cherish the most, and they can be passed down through generations for continued display and enjoyment. A family portrait session with AHA! Photography is an investment in a work of art that’s commissioned especially for you and your loved ones!

A Community Cornerstone

PIERCE TIMBER COMPANY THRIVES AS A LOCAL TIMBER LEGACY

ollowing over 60 years of service to its community and the timber industry, Pierce Timber Company stands as an iconic enterprise built upon dynamics emphasizing people and professionalism. Its industrial mission is a three-pronged venture of wood procurement, logging, and reforestation, accomplished daily through a collective vein of hard work. Such dedicated workmanship has long been a guiding company principle, ingrained by its founder and maintained by the generations who have followed.

Mac’s son and grandson, Hugh and Trey Thompson.

PHOTO BY CAITLIN OGDEN FOR AG SOUTH FARM CREDIT

STORY BY JOHN DUPONT

FAMILY PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TERRI DELACH, DARI THOMAS

“I do tell the guys all the time that we’re just borrowing Pierce Timber. It will always be Mac Thompson’s.”

– Hugh Thompson

so we moved to Pierce County.” Married in 1955, Mac and Mary Thompson settled in Blackshear, living modestly o Main Street in a garage apartment owned by Monroe Waters, a community business leader. At the time, Mac worked for Shackleford’s timber enterprise business, earning $60 per week.

“Pierce Timber stands as a cornerstone of our community, not only through its economic contributions, but also through its steadfast commitment to local investment and involvement,” says Bethany Strickland of Main Street Blackshear and Better Hometown Blackshear.

The cultivator of the dream that became Pierce Timber Company, the late H.M. “Mac” Thompson, was the youngest of four brothers raised on a farm in Montgomery County. An athlete in both high school and college, Mac first met Mary Grace Fiveash, a fellow sports enthusiast, at a community baseball game. Following a military assignment in Europe, Mac returned to Georgia with plans to settle near Macon when another path emerged.

“We were planning on getting married when Mac came home,” recalls Mary. “I was in nursing school at Mercer. At that time, the Okefenokee Swamp was on fire, and John Shackleford called and asked Mac to come down and help with it.

I figured I could go to nursing school anywhere,

“Here I was, this girl who didn’t own a thing, and the Waters family basically took me in,” reflects Mary. “Because I wasn’t from Pierce County, Mrs. Waters organized a ‘tea’ for me. She invited all the Pierce County people she could think of and introduced me to them.”

Social outings and luxuries were scarce for the Thompsons in those days. Mac worked tenaciously, raising swine and farming tobacco to supplement his income as a woodsman. He spent his days working outdoors and evenings caring for their children, Terri and Hugh, while Mary worked nights. “When things were falling apart, Daddy was always the glue that put us back together,” says Terri Thompson DeLoach. “Everything we went after was something in which we had to be the very best. If I had a 96 on my report card, he wanted it to be a 100. He went to bed early and got up early. His work ethic was instilled within us from the very beginning.”

Mac’s star was on the rise when Shackleford proposed plans for relocating and transferring ownership of his timber business to him. With the support of a silent partner, Pierce Timber Company was born in 1962. By 1972, it would become Mac’s enterprise outright.

Mac Thompson, founder of Pierce Timber.

PIERCE TIMBER COMPANY

David DeLoach, Terri’s husband who passed away in 2021, was already an integral part of Pierce Timber when Hugh joined the family business in 1986.

“Daddy had a good friend who financed his ability to purchase the business,” explains Hugh. “There’s no such thing as a self-made man, someone or something has to give you a leg up along the way, and my dad paid everyone forward threefold. To do otherwise was not an option for him.”

Testifying to that fact is longtime partner Darrell Thomas, who was working in carpentry when he accepted Mac’s invitation to join forces in the timber industry. Thomas subsequently spent a decade in Mac’s employ, and in 1976, the two men launched a trucking company that became known appropriately enough as Thom’s Transport. That endeavor saw Mac himself serve briefly as a silent partner only.

“Mac and I went to the bank and borrowed the money,” remembers Thomas. “He said, ‘Darrell, you run this business.’ Mac never had to do one thing for Thom’s Transport, but I never would have had the success without him. He was a very generous man who gave a lot of money out to people, and that’s a trait of his I’ve tried to carry as well.”

Jimmy Byrd was also a young carpenter when he joined Pierce Timber Company. As the company grew, so did his responsibilities. “If you did your job, you didn’t have a thing in the world to worry about,” says Byrd. “If you didn’t do your job, Mr. Mac would let you know about it. He was an honest fellow, and he wanted everybody to do well. If he made money, he wanted the other fellow to make money, too.”

The next generation for Pierce Timber ultimately came of age, setting the stage for Hugh’s debut into the family business. As a football standout, he was among a group of young men who helped unite two Pierce County communities through sports. Having played at Blackshear High School (BHS) in 1980, Hugh earned the starting quarterback position for Pierce County High School the following year, when BHS merged with Patterson High School, and led the Bears to the playo s in their first season.

“Everything with my sister and me was either going to be playing a sport or working, and I chose to do everything that had a ball involved,” Hugh chuckles.

Terri and Hugh’s extracurricular pursuits not only won their parents’ support, but they brought to fruition dreams their parents had cultivated for their children long before. “Because my own father had abandoned us, my mother worked all the time, and she didn’t get to go to my ball games,” says Mary. “I said if I ever had children, I wanted to go wherever they needed to go. That’s why I worked nights.”

Hugh’s football accolades earned him an o er to play for Valdosta State University. He lettered for the Blazers, with football paving the way to a Bachelor of Business Administration. He graduated in 1986 and returned home, joining his father in the family timber business, which by then also included Hugh’s brother-in-law, David DeLoach.

“David was a jack of all trades,” says Hugh. “All he wanted to do every day besides be a great father was to get up and go to work.”

Such mutual respect runs commonplace in the Pierce Timber circles. “Folks think of Superman and Batman as heroes, but

Hugh was always my idol,” says Dari Thomas, son of Darrell Thomas and current president of Thom’s Transport. “I got a lot of Hugh’s hand-me-downs: his car, his motorcycle, and his letterman jacket. He and I would go places, and Hugh would say, ‘this is my little brother.’ He’d say that about a lot of boys, but I took it to heart.”

Armed with a business degree, Hugh cut his teeth in the timber industry, not in an o ce but in the woods with the timber crews, learning the ropes from company veterans like Jimmy Byrd, Pete Thomas, and Jerry Hill. “Dad said, ‘you’ve got to know what you’re buying and know what you’re selling,’” he says.

Transfer of leadership was gradual, with Hugh and David buying out the company’s timber crews one at a time. The brothers-in-law created D&H Logging, with another Pierce Timber veteran, Hugh Tyre, managing the crew. The trucking

“[Mac] was a very generous man who gave a lot of money out to people, and that’s a trait of his I’ve tried to carry.”

– Darrell Thomas

Mac & Mary Thompson married and moved to Blackshear in 1955.

Hugh Thompson, Dari Thomas, Mac Thompson, and Dick Larson some years back on a trip they took together. Dari Thomas is the current president of Thom’s Trucking that was started by Mac Thompson and Dari’s dad, Darell Thomas, in 1976.

Mac and Mary Thompson with their two children, Terri Thompson DeLoach and Hugh Thompson.

“My dad was a very selfless man, and he gave back to more people than I can tell you.

Pierce Timber was a vehicle that he used. He believed in hard work. He was an amazing man, and I’m proud to have called him my daddy.”

– Terri DeLoach

“

Pierce Timber stands as a cornerstone of our community, not only through its economic contributions, but also through its steadfast commitment to local investment and involvement.”

– Bethany Strickland,

Main Street Blackshear

Mac with his two grandsons, Brett DeLoach and Trey Thompson. Brett joined the family business after college for five years during Mac’s illness and passing. Trey started full-time in 2014 and currently serves as an area manager.

and logging services eventually diverged, with Tracy Harris supervising the trucking subsidiary now known as Mac 44 Forestry. Following 48 years of operation, Mac Thompson o cially turned over the reins of Pierce Timber Company to Hugh in 2010. By then, a third generation of family timbermen had also come of age.

Brett DeLoach, David and Terri’s son, wrapped up his collegiate baseball career and graduated from the University of Georgia (UGA). With his grandfather’s health declining, Brett answered the call to return home. He devoted five years to the family business before returning to Athens, where he now works in real estate.

Meanwhile, Hugh’s son, Hugh Mac “Trey” Thompson III, had established his own interest in the family business upon his graduation from UGA. Trey joined Pierce Timber Company fulltime in 2014, the same year his namesake grandfather passed. David’s passing in 2021 left another void, but Trey, who followed the same learning curve as his father, ascended to the leadership ranks in due course. Trey now serves as an area manager for Pierce Timber, embracing his role with a mindset that honors the family legacy. “First generation establishes the business. Second generation expands it,” he says. “Third generation either preserves the business for future generations or allows it to deteriorate.”

Expansion of the original business blueprint has been impressive. Pierce Timber now also operates in Florida and South Carolina, and its list of a liates includes Boswell Oil Company, Pierce Industrial Tire, and T&M Forest Services. Among the biggest challenges in its history has been the reforestation crisis caused by Hurricane Helene. Six months hence, the timber industry is still coming to terms with the storm’s devastation.

Sixty-five years since its formation, there is nonetheless still ample reason for Pierce Timber Company to anticipate the days ahead with optimism. “The most important factor for the future of Pierce Timber is our ability to continue surrounding ourselves with hard-working employees who are passionate about their work,” says Trey. “We’re fortunate to have what my dad calls the best team he has ever worked with, and I wholeheartedly agree. The culture established by past employees and carried forward by our current and future generations will be the driving force behind a bright future for Pierce Timber.”

“Looking forward, not back, is what our family has always been about,” adds Hugh. “But I do tell the guys all the time that we’re just borrowing Pierce Timber. It will always be Mac Thompson’s.” OL

The Pierce Timber employees with Mary Thompson marking the 60th anniversary of Pierce Timber in 2023.

“DUKE” RAYFORD

A SERVANT LEADER

After a military career took him all the way to the Pentagon, Waycross City Manager Ulysses “Duke” Rayford embraces small-town life and brings positive change to his new community.

STORY BY EJ POND

aycross City Manager Ulysses Dukane

“Duke” Rayford is a humble man who still carries himself like the career soldier he is. Often seen walking the city’s streets, chatting with passersby, stepping into shops, or dining at local cafés, Rayford’s mild manner belies the fact that he arrived in Waycross directly following an appointment at the Pentagon, where he held the highest possible rank for a noncommissioned o cer in the United States Army, a G9.

“I’ve had a blessed life,” says Rayford. “My purpose is to give back, because a lot of people gave to me.”

Among those many is his stepfather, Master Sergeant Louis Powell, whom he credits with positively impacting his life. Powell married Rayford’s mother, Alma, when Rayford was in kindergarten.

Photo by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

OPPOSITE PAGE

Command Sgt. Maj. Rayford of U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz stands with the color guard at the Garrison Change of Responsibility Ceremony at Armstrong’s Club on Vogelweh, December 16, 2016.

“I feel like we’re doing a lot of great things. I know everybody can’t see and touch them right now, but they’re happening.”

“I remember coming home one day and everything was packed up,” he says. “My mom just said, ‘We’re moving.’ We moved to a two-bedroom apartment. I had my own bathroom and my own bedroom. I didn’t have to sleep on the couch in a one-bedroom trailer anymore.”

“My stepdad made such a big di erence for me,” says Rayford. “I tell the young men around here how important it is to be a present father, even if their children aren’t biologically theirs.”

Rayford also credits Powell with the advice that has served him well throughout his life. “He always told me, ‘Be on time, keep your hair cut and your boots shined, and stay physically fit; ask the right questions, don’t ask all the questions—ask the right questions.’ I’ve done all those things,” he says.

Born in Columbus, Georgia, Rayford graduated from Spencer High School in 1992. Like many young men, he was ready to leave his hometown. “The plan was to go into the Army for four years, get my degree,

then come back and teach history at Spencer High. I was following my mother, who was an elementary school teacher. It didn’t work out,” he chuckles. “I ended up staying in the Army for 26 more years.”

Rayford entered his military career in multichannel systems communications. “My recruiter sold me on working on helicopters. He didn’t tell me the helicopter had a radio,” Rayford laughs. “He kind of tricked me.”

Rayford’s fi rst duty station was the U.S. Army Garrison in Gieson, Germany, in the Air Defense Artillery Patriot Missile System as a radio operator. He was then sent to Camp Carroll in the village of Waegwan, South Korea. “Korea is a lovely country,” says Rayford. “Koreans really support soldiers and families.”

By 1996, it was time for Rayford to decide if he should stay in the Army. Due to Columbus’ depressed economic climate at that time, he

returned to Korea. From there, he moved to Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia and trained to become a drill sergeant. In 2003, he was named Fort Gordon Drill Sergeant of the Year.

Rayford was also inducted into the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club (SAMC), a private U.S. Army organization for enlisted non-commissioned o cers (NCO). According to the Audie L. Murphy Memorial website, to be considered for SAMC, an NCO must “exemplify leadership characterized by personal concern for the needs, training, development, and welfare of Soldiers and concern for families of Soldiers.” If an NCO meets these prerequisites, they can then be recommended by their superior to participate in the rigorous board exams required for being

“[My stepfather] always told me, ‘Be on time, keep your hair cut and your boots shined, and stay physically t; ask the right questions, don’t ask

all the questions—ask the right questions.’

I’ve done all those things.”

ABOVE Command

Sgt. Maj. Rayford of IMCOM-E passes the leadership to an incoming Command Sgt. Maj. on February 21, 2019 before moving to a new assignment as Sgt. Maj. for the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management.

ABOVE RIGHT Rayford served as Command Sgt. Maj. at USG Rheinland-Pfalz.

awarded SAMC membership.

Rayford’s tours in the Middle East began in 2004, including stints at Camps Ari an and Buehring in Kuwait. “For the next four or five years, we were either in the theater or back in the U.S.,” says Rayford. “That’s when the Army became real for me. Before then, I didn’t know anybody who’d been killed, and I had never been shot at. It made me look at the world di erently.” He returned to Fort Gordon for a short time where he earned the rank of Sergeant Major (Sgt. Maj.), returning to Kuwait in 2010.

Upon his return from the Middle East, Rayford was stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, as Command Sgt. Maj. of the Training and Research Development Unit. “I was in charge

LEFT Rayford with his stepfather, Master Sergeant Louis Powell.

by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

“I’ve had a blessed life. My purpose is to give back, because a lot of people gave to me.”

of about 200 scientists who worked on the acquisition of new equipment. If the open market had a new computer or a radio, the scientists would test it and recommend whether or not the Army should purchase it,” Rayford explains. “In that brigade, we had about 600 people all around the world, and all of them had di erent roles and functions. Fort Huachuca was all about testing, engineering, and design; Germany was operations. Once the scientists tested the equipment in the field, we would take it to Germany.”

Almost 20 years after his fi rst assignment in Germany, Rayford was sent to the United States Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz as Garrison Command Sgt. Maj.—the job most like his work in Waycross. “Rheinland-Pfalz is a collection of smaller cities, and our base provided support. Everything I do here, I did there, but the military version. We worked directly with the German military leadership.”

“One thing I’m really proud of is having had the opportunity to talk with the governors of 14 states to help create the Spouse Job Transfer Plan,” says Rayford. The plan allows spouses holding state certifications or licenses to practice reciprocity in another state in the event of a duty transfer, alleviating the need to start over.

“I got to be involved with retirement benefit changes for soldiers, and we did a lot of things to make the installations and housing better for soldiers and their families,” Rayford adds. “I’ve had a great career, and to be able to work at the

He was then appointed Command Sgt. Maj. of Installation Command, putting him in charge of all the U.S. Army bases in Germany. “We were in charge of funding, training, transportation, schools, and programs,” he says. “The total number of soldiers and spouses there was close to 98,000. The housing was provided by Germany. It was a great relationship. They bent over backward for us to be in their country.” While at Rheinland-Pfalz, Rayford received the call to go to the Pentagon, where his G9 status put him in charge of 78 U.S. Army installations around the world. His responsibilities included budgeting, allocating resources, programming, and working with state governments.

Photo

highest levels of the Army and then work at the Pentagon on budgeting and briefi ng Congressmen and women,” he says, shaking his head in wonder at what he, the young man from Columbus, has achieved.

Rayford admits he was a ected by seeing the scars left at the Pentagon from the 9/11 attack. “It makes you realize we’re touchable. That’s why you have to treat everybody with dignity and respect—other countries, everybody,” he observes. “We’ve lost that in some kind of way. I just want to be better, and I hope everybody wants to be better and work towards a common goal. We all should want to make Waycross better.”

Programming was also under Rayford’s jurisdiction during his time at the Pentagon, which included investigating the causes of the high number of military suicides. “It was a lot to deal with,” he recalls. “I was burned out with always traveling and speaking, and I thought, ‘I’m done.’ I woke up one day and just knew it. I retired in August of 2022.”

Rayford’s fi rst inclination after retiring was to fi nally become the history teacher he had initially intended to be. By this time, he had earned his Associate, Bachelor, and Master of Business Administration degrees. He also considered local politics, either in Columbus or in Augusta, where he had spent so many years at Fort Gordon.

It was General Maria Lodi Barrett who recommended Rayford consider installation management or city management. City Manager of Waycross was among the fi rst positions he applied for. While waiting for an interview, he received an attractive o er from another city. When the interview invitation from Waycross

came, despite the salary range being significantly lower, Rayford says, “I guess sometimes you listen to the universe. I thought, ‘No, I think I’m supposed to be in Waycross.’”

Rayford arrived in town several days before his interview to get a feel for the area. “I walked around downtown and asked some citizens, ‘If you were in charge, what would you do di erently?’ and they told me!” he laughs. He o cially began his duties as City Manager on March 7, 2023.

“Waycross is kind of like Columbus, but not as big. I love it. I feel like we’re doing a lot of great things. I know everybody can’t see and touch them right now, but they’re happening.” OL

“It is an honor and a point of pride as Mayor of the City of Waycross to recognize the outstanding leadership and tireless dedication of our City Manager, “Duke” Rayford. His distinguished military background is a measure of his character as well as a fundamental approach to public service. He is not only navigating the here and now—he is trying to craft the future of Waycross. His vision of sustainable growth, economic development, and a better quality of life for all is already making a lasting difference. I have every confidence that under his direction, Waycross will not merely weather today’s storms, but thrive in tomorrow’s opportunities.”

– Dr. Michael-Angelo James, DTM – Mayor of Waycross

Rayford’s goals for the City of Waycross are based on three core values: transparency, communication, and trust. In order to meet them, Rayford and his team utilize several tactics to keep the lines of communication open and flowing with citizens. The new mywaycrossga.gov app was launched recently and allows citizens to report issues directly to the corresponding departments, pay bills, and view the community calendar. Rayford maintains an active social media page where he posts the budget, ongoing and upcoming projects, and photos of on-site work progress. His objective is to move Waycross into the future, including updating the cumbersome City Charter, creating and facilitating a working budget to sustain the city during much needed infrastructure overhauls, and ensuring that all citizens feel heard, respected, and cared for by their local government.

Rayford with John Lewis, legendary civil rights leader and long-serving Georgia congressman, who died in 2020.

FOOD SERVED Where FRIENDSHIPS

KEVIN AND HEIDI WOODS CELEBRATE

30 YEARS OF KD’S CAFÉ

Story

Story

by JOHN RIDDLE

by JOHN RIDDLE

evin Woods’ interest in restaurants began while traveling with his family as a boy. “Restaurants have always fascinated me,” he says. “It started when we traveled extensively with our dad, who was the chairman of a local bank. We stayed at nice hotels and ate at nice restaurants.” While that left an impression on Kevin, it was the promise his dad made that made the real di erence. “He told me that as soon as I got a real job, I didn’t have to work in tobacco anymore,” Kevin explains. As soon as he could drive, he got a job at the local Burger King in Waycross. That’s where Kevin’s food journey started—and he never picked anymore tobacco.

Kevin’s sister, Heidi, was intent on following a di erent path, and her plans never included working in a restaurant. However, when Kevin had the idea of starting his own restaurant, Heidi changed her plans. “Initially, I was going to help Kevin for about six months and then move on. I didn’t want to work in a restaurant,” Heidi laughs. That was 30 years ago.

For most of their lives, Kevin and Heidi Woods have lived together except for brief stints apart. Since 1995, they have owned and operated KD’s Café, an institution in downtown Waycross. After all those years in business, running the place comes easily to them now, but the journey hasn’t all been “peaches and cream” for this brother-sister duo.

Kevin and Heidi are from Brantley County, where their parents, Dennis and Rosslyn Woods, still live. In the late ’80s they moved to Savannah for about six years, where Heidi worked in a business owned by a close family member while Kevin continued his food journey working in various restaurants. Heidi worked with him in some of those restaurants too.

Kevin worked in and managed restaurants on River Street and in City Market before moving on to Red Lobster. “That was in their heyday, when they introduced the 30-count shrimp dinner and the

The front of the iconic KD’s hasn’t drastically changed over the years, except for the placement of Kevin and Heidi’s faces on the second story windows—a more recent addition taken from an old billboard. Photo by Brittany Jury Photography.

Photo by Brittany Jury Photography

cheddar garlic biscuits in 1989,” he explains. “I was making between $600 and $800 a few days a week and sometimes up to $1,000 in a weekend.”

Eventually Heidi moved back home, and Kevin moved to St. Simons Island, where he stopped at the first restaurant he saw and asked for a job—which he got. Soon, those owners started another restaurant; Kevin was instrumental in launching and running it. It closed after one year, but Kevin gained valuable experience in both what to do and not to do when owning and managing a restaurant.

Kevin also moved back home in January 1995, but the only business he knew was still in his blood; he thought this might be the opportunity to own his own restaurant. He and Heidi drove around Waycross and found a building downtown that reminded them of Savannah. They rented it for $250 a month, and that was the start of a new chapter in their lives.

“We opened in a few weeks. Every afternoon when Dad got o work, he and our mother would join us to work on getting the restaurant ready.”

- HEIDI WOODS

When they went to register the business at the courthouse, the clerk asked for the name of the restaurant. Kevin thought then quickly settled on “KD’s BBQ and Café,” using the initials in his name, Kevin Dennis. They were in business. Next, they faced the hard part: actually opening the restaurant, which they did in short order, and then making it successful.

“We opened in a few weeks,” Heidi explains. “Every afternoon when Dad got o work, he and our mother would join us to work on getting the restaurant ready. We all worked on it from daylight to dark. Mother even made floor-to-ceiling curtains to help absorb sound. They were determined we weren’t going to fail.”

Others pitched in too. Through all of that, Kevin was catering to generate much needed extra income.

KD’s BBQ & Café opened with a bang. “Everyone in Waycross came that first week, and we ran out of everything,”

Kevin and Heidi’s parents, Dennis and Rosslyn Woods, have been instrumental in KD’s success over the years.

Kevin recalls. “We didn’t do a ‘soft opening,’ we just opened and practiced as we went,” Heidi adds. Their first menu o ered a pork sandwich for $1.85 while a larger version went for $3. A pork plate was $5. Hamburgers and a footlong hotdog for $1.50 rounded out the menu in those early days. The catering jobs helped pay the bills.

“In those days, a catering job for about 100 was a good size for us, but we would stretch

ourselves for the right gig,” Kevin explains. Take for instance the job for a church in Florida that was building a compound in Patterson where they fed over 650 people for a few days each summer. Years later, they catered for the Georgia Forestry Commission that was inviting guests from all over the world to educate them about investing in pine forests. “They drove investors into the middle of Milwood in large motorcoaches that would pull to fancy tents where we’d feed them,” Heidi says. “There we were, in the middle of the woods, trying to explain to people from Japan about BBQ chicken and lima beans,” she laughs.

Their catering expertise helped tremendously during the pandemic when business dried up and many restaurants closed. Instead of going the “take-out” route that saved many restaurants, they won the FEMA contract to cater for the sta of the mass vaccination site set up at the Hatcher Point Mall parking lot. “That was the most profitable catering job we ever had,” Kevin remembers.

In December of KD’s first year in business, their landlord passed, and an opportunity to buy the building presented itself. Heidi, then

do working behind the counter.

only 25 years old, and Kevin, only 28, saw new options for the young restaurant. The building had three additional spaces that were producing rental income, including a well-known sports store, C&C Sports, which was in the space adjacent to KD’s.

“They were a good tenant until they moved out to Knight Avenue in 2000,” Kevin explains. But with their departure, he also saw another opportunity. “I had always wanted to own a bar, so we expanded into that space,” he says. Soon KD’s Bar was open, o ering a DJ, dancing, and a separate smoking room—uncommon in those days. Those were busy times. KD’s had expanded to o ering dinner service, so they were serving lunch Monday through Saturday and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and now the bar was also open Wednesday to Saturday until 2 a.m.

“There was not another place in Waycross like it, and we enjoyed it—until we didn’t anymore,” Kevin says. “But we had a good time.” Finally, in 2007, they decided to close the bar. “We were younger when it opened, and we did it for as long as could—until eventually we ‘lost that loving feeling’ for it,” Heidi laughs. Today, they rent the space for private events and use it for family gatherings as well as a place to relax during the busy times in the restaurant.

Kevin and Heidi are naturally friendly, so they spend just as much time visiting with customers as they

Right photo by Brittany Jury Photography.

Photo by Savannah Varnadore

Photo by Savannah Varnadore

Through it all, Kevin and Heidi have relied on their parents’ support and encouragement. “When we first started, Heidi would take the checkbook to mom, and she would help balance it to the penny,” Kevin explains. “We didn’t care, but she did,” Heidi chuckles. “Our parents have been a great resource,” Kevin says. “They’ve done a lot for us, but we do let them eat for free,” Heidi adds, and she and Kevin laugh again.

They’ve continued relying on the support of family and friends through the years, especially when times were tough. “Sometimes, we’d figure out we weren’t making any money,” Kevin says. “There were a lot of sleepless nights and consulting with family and friends.” Heidi adds, “We went many times without paying ourselves, and we didn’t have spouses to fall back on as a second income. But somehow, we figured it out.”

Much of their success has come from their attention to customer service. “For the first 28 years of KD’s, the customer’s name was on the ticket, and we would stand at the counter and yell it when their food was ready,” Kevin explains. Then they moved to using table numbers and taking the food to the customers. “We learned that customers love servers knowing their names,” Heidi adds. “We never have to worry about Heidi. If the guys are cute, she’ll remember their names,” Kevin laughs.

Their loyal customers appreciate the good food and friendly atmosphere. Some eat lunch three to four days a week and dinner on Fridays. “We thrive on about 250 regular customers,” Kevin explains. They’ve catered weddings for children of their long-time customers and have developed life-long friendships. Kevin swears that Heidi has met all her ex-boyfriends in the restaurant. Heidi jokes, “My friends tell me I should start using a dating app, but why would I when I meet so many new people here?” Keeping an eye on business, Kevin tells Heidi: “You need to stop dating the customers

“If these walls could talk—if we didn’t have this room, we might not still have KD’s.”

- KEVIN WOODS

because they don’t come back when you break up.” They both laugh again.

On the decision to locate downtown versus on Memorial Drive, Kevin says, “We’ve enjoyed being in downtown, and it’s the busiest we’ve seen it in 30 years.” Still, he admits it is still di cult to get some people to come downtown. “We still meet someone every week who has never heard of us,” he says.

They make sure they stay involved with the local organizations promoting downtown and are ardent supporters of local charities. “We meet a lot of new homeowners who have just moved to Waycross,” Kevin explains. “And we cater for new physicians and love our schoolteachers and administrators—they’ve been good to us,” Heidi adds. “First responders get their drinks for free.”

A lot of time has passed since Kevin’s first job at Burger King and when Heidi agreed to help him for the first six months when KD’s opened. Since they’re both naturally gregarious, greeting customers warmly day in and day out with a jovial personality and a constant smile “is easy as pie.” But Kevin still faces the challenge of burnout. “Sometimes my customer service runs out on Wednesday, and I have to somehow make it last until Friday,” he admits.

Closing the bar in 2007 might have been the reason they’re still in business. That space now doubles as the “safe space” they go to when they need privacy or to talk through a disagreement. On a recent afternoon, sitting together on a sofa reminiscing after the lunch crowd, Kevin thinks back on everything he and Heidi have experienced over the last three decades. “If these walls could talk—if we didn’t have this room, we might not still have KD’s,” he says as he and Heidi burst out in laughter yet again. OL

Kevin and Heidi sitting in the old bar area now used for private events and as their place to escape to during the day. Photo by Brittany Jury Photography.

Whenpeople think about building relationships in a community, they often imagine it happening naturally. But true connection—especially when it comes to something as personal and profound as end-of-life care— takes time, commitment, and trust.

“I am thankful for the work I get to do every day. To have a job that brings purpose, connection, and the chance to make a di erence in someone’s life. What I do is not just a job, but it is my calling,” says Melissa who covers Atkinson, Clinch, Co ee, and Ware counties.

From doctors’ o ces and senior centers to farmers’ markets and weekend events, Melissa and Stacey are always on the move, making sure that people know what Hospice Satilla has to o er. But more than that, they are building something deeper: trust.

Stacey, who serves the people of Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, and Pierce counties, is also grateful. “I am thankful for the opportunities each day to educate and share with others about the services we o er at Hospice Satilla.  I am blessed to be able to sprinkle joy and love every day. At the heart of everything I do, it is all about building relationships with those that we serve and making a meaningful impact on the lives of others,” she says.

Their roles are vital. As Healthcare Relations Representatives, they:

• Build trust with patients and families during some of life’s most vulnerable moments.

• Educate the community about hospice services, helping families understand that hospice is about living well, not just saying goodbye.

Since 1986, Hospice Satilla has been providing our community local, personalized, award-winning quality care.

Hospice Honors recognizes the unparalleled excellence of services that we offer daily. Whether you need hospice care, palliative care, or grief support, your friends and neighbors at Hospice Satilla are here for you, and as your community non-profit, you will never be denied care due to an inability to pay.

• Engage with healthcare professionals and community members to create pathways for referrals and timely care.

We provide all four levels of Hospice Care:

• Routine Home Care

• Continuous Home Care

At Hospice Satilla, two exceptional women embody this mission every single day. Melissa King and Stacey Thrift, Healthcare Relations Representatives, aren’t just community liaisons—they’re passionate advocates for compassionate care. Their reach may span counties, but their impact is felt at an individual level—through meaningful conversations, heartfelt education, and an unwavering presence.

• General Inpatient Care (Hospice House)

• Respite Care

For more information, visit HospiceSatilla.com

For more information, visit HospiceSatilla.com

• Personalize their approach, recognizing that every family’s story is di erent and deserves a compassionate, informed response.

E ective hospice marketing isn’t about selling a service— it’s about opening a door. It’s about helping people know they aren’t alone. Thanks to dedicated professionals like Melissa and Stacey, that message is being delivered with grace, empathy, and unwavering commitment.

Serving Ware, Pierce, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, and Coffee Counties. There when you've needed us since 1986.

to learn more of what makes our teams the best in the region!

Story by JOHN DUPONT

shot

CREATING HIS OWN

Cory Baldwin’s passion for basketball and for life has helped him craft a record-breaking, winning environment—on and off the court

Three guesses as to who the winningest men’s college basketball team in Georgia has been over the past six years—at any level. The answer isn’t to be found in Atlanta, Athens, or Statesboro, either. South Georgia State College coach Cory Baldwin is the purveyor of such success, having accumulated 145 wins since the start of the 2019-20 season (405 career wins as a head coach). And he lives in Waycross.

Winning at a .763 clip over that six-year run, Baldwin’s Hawks have thrice won the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association (GCAA) Tournament in addition to one regular season title. That streak of excellence has seen SGSC finish as runner-up four times and 3rd place just once among the nine-team conference. Since taking over at what was then Waycross College in 2009, Baldwin’s teams have made four trips to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Tournament, advancing as far as the Sweet 16.

According to the architect of that success, there’s not just one common denominator in the winning formula. “X-factor-wise, I think it’s good people,” Baldwin says. “Obviously, good athletes help, but it’s the people, the volunteers involved in day-to-day operations, the assistant coaches, and the athletic directors. While we’ve had changes in colors, logos, and mascots, we’ve had some people here the whole time working the front gate and concessions. Opposing coaches are always so positive about how professional our scoring table is and that it’s all volunteer-run.”

Nineteen seasons as a college head coach, including the first three at Truett McConnell University, have seen Baldwin garner eight Coach of the Year awards: Georgia Athletic Coaches Association (GACA) twice, GACA District four times, and Georgia Basketball Coaches Association twice. Four of Baldwin’s teams have been crowned conference tournament championships, with two others securing regular season championships.

CORY BALDWIN

Baldwin’s success derives from a longstanding passion for basketball that has been decades in the making. “My sister played at Georgia Tech, so I lived a smaller version of that,” he says. “That’s what made me get into basketball.”

A Jonesboro native, Baldwin played high school hoops, first at Jonesboro High School and later at nearby Lake City Christian School, parlaying his talents as a point guard into a college career at Clayton State University (CSU) in Morrow. He graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management.

“Originally, my goal was to be a middle school basketball and football coach,” he says. “I think the middle school group needs more coaching than what they usually get, and I think in some ways it’s more important than high school. But after a few weeks in a college setting as a player, I decided I wanted more.”

Determined to forge a basketball future at higher levels, Baldwin remained at CSU for seven years, working as an assistant coach, instructor, and academic advisor. His first big break came in 2006, when he was hired at TMU, which was then just a junior college. In 2009, following three seasons there, he accepted the job as head coach of the Cartersville Warriors, a summer men’s pro league consisting of players returning from overseas leagues. That fall Baldwin was named head coach at Waycross College, where he was greeted by a solid circle of supporters. Among them was D.J. Hardy, who worked another decade in Waycross as an assistant coach after serving three seasons as a team manager under Baldwin.

“Coach Baldwin absolutely loves to win, and he’s a proven winner,” says Hardy, now the athletics coordinator for rival

“He’s the truest kind of fan—not just of the teams he’s coached or cheered for, but of his friends, his players, and the people around him. Even long after someone leaves his team, he continues to root for them.” – Mrs. Amanda Baldwin

Southern Crescent Technical College in Gri n. “At his core—as a man—he’s a dedicated father to his own children. As a coach, I’d describe his approach as ‘tough love.’ Many of the players who come through the program come from single-parent homes, and he goes above and beyond to be a father figure for them and help prepare them for the real world.”

“Husband” and “father” are in fact words that appear on the first line of Baldwin’s X profile. This year, he and wife Amanda celebrate their 21st anniversary, having built memories through the years

that largely revolve around their children. Their daughter is now a high school senior as their son enters the seventh grade this fall. “Cory is the very best friend a person could ever have: kind, loyal, and full of heart,” says Amanda. He loves his family deeply and finds real joy in spending time with his relatives, sharing stories, and laughing together.”

Basketball for fun is also part of Coach Baldwin’s mix, whether it’s tracking Rick Pitino’s coaching exploits, watching the Atlanta Hawks, or taking his son to the NCAA Final Four. But there’s also time for beach trips, concerts, and movies on the recreational docket for the family, who have set a goal of visiting all 50 states. That state tally neared 40 with a recent summer trip to Philadelphia. Their lives rooted in faith, the Baldwins worship at Second Baptist Church in Waycross. Invariably, Coach Baldwin’s paternal influence also extends to the student-athletes assigned to his watch.

“They become like family,” he explains. “As a coach, you’re going to be their first phone call when they’re sick because they could be hours away from home.”

Players are housed at the Douglas campus of SGSC, where the team also practices, but the Waycross campus provides the home court for the Hawks.

That means a lot of commuting for the coach, who also teaches health and hosts “Baldwin’s Ballers,” a series of summer basketball camps for youth. “Community involvement in both Douglas and Waycross is one of the things I love here,” he says. “I’ve had students hunt me down and tell me camp was their first time visiting a college. I know we’re in football country, but I’m a basketball guy even more, and there’s a lot of kids here that don’t know the sport. This is a chance for it to be part of their lives.”

Through the years, Baldwin has coached four conference Player of the Year winners, nine NJCAA All-Americans, and 15 NJCAA Academic All-Americans. Thirty-three of his players have gone on to play at the Division I level, with 17 playing at some level of professional basketball. In all, 115 hoopsters have succeeded in basketball at other levels after training under Baldwin; countless are those who’ve succeeded o the court.

“We’ve had some guys who’ve gone on to be PAs, and we even had an All-American who’s now a SWAT o cer

in Savannah. All of them were winners here, and now they’re winners in life,” he says.

Cody Helgeland, who played for Baldwin from 2013-15, currently works as a physical therapist in Clermont, Florida.

“Not only did he have tactics such as ‘no out of bounds’ and ‘no fouls’ in practice every day, but he put on similar competitions for players to see who would make the best grades for each semester,” says Helgeland. “Coach Baldwin demanded we strive for excellence in all facets of our lives. A saying from him I always remember is ‘Don’t let basketball use you; use basketball.’”

“Bang for your buck” is a saying Baldwin doesn’t mind hanging his hat on when it comes to touting SGSC

basketball. “In the last six years, we’ve been the winningest men’s program at any level of college basketball in the state of Georgia, and we’re right here in Waycross,” he reiterates. “Who would even know to set that as a goal? And you can get into a game for seven dollars. How can you beat that? This has become way more successful than I ever would have imagined.”

At the same time, the veteran coach covets a legacy not solely tied to personal statistics. “Passion through helping the players and for the sport—I hope they remember me for that, and I hope that the program gets even better. For me it’s not necessarily having been the best, but having left it even better.” OL

Cory with his wife, Amanda, after winning the GCAA Men’s Basketball 2024 Championship and 2024 Coach of the Year.

Baldwin was presented with the District Coach of the Year award at the NJCAA basketball national tournament in Kansas.

PHOTO BY JOY SUMNER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY JOY SUMNER PHOTOGRAPHY

REPRESENTATIVE STEVEN MEEKS

It is my honor and privilege to represent you in the Georgia House of Representatives.

This session, I worked with my colleagues in the Georgia House and focused on protecting Georgians— protecting their pocketbooks from high costs and bad actors, protecting children while in school, and protecting families and their rights to live freely.

I worked to prioritize legislation that directly impacts budgets, businesses, and your quality of life.

I appreciate your continued support.

ECONOMIC RELIEF

In recent years, Georgia has passed more than $8 billion in relief for Georgia taxpayers. This year, I focused on legislation to provide tax relief and rebates, provide storm recovery funding, and reform litigation laws that will help drive down costs for consumers. The House passed legislation to:

• Bring balance to our courtrooms by preserving victims’ rights while eliminating incentives for frivolous lawsuits and prohibiting third-party litigation by foreign influences, helping stabilize high insurance costs and lower the “tort tax” every Georgian pays when the courts are abused (SB 68 and SB 69).

• Cut income taxes by $800 million, lowering the income tax rate to 5.19% immediately and ultimately below 5% (HB 111), as well as another $1 billion rebate for taxpayers (HB 112).

HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND AFFORDABILITY

Working with my colleagues, House Republicans have invested in our state’s healthcare infrastructure to ensure Georgians in all counties have access to quality, a ordable healthcare. In addition to passing historic tort reform legislation to limit unfair lawsuits that can devastate medical providers, House Republicans passed legislation to:

• Protect a family’s access to in-vitro fertilization (HB 872).

• Bring Georgia patients relief from high drug costs and ensure independent pharmacists are not reimbursed below cost (HB 196).

Capitol Address

401-H State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334

Office: (404) 656-7857

Steven.Meeks@house.ga.gov

EDUCATION

Georgia Republicans have continually invested in teacher pay raises, school security funding, and school choice. This year, House Republicans again fully funded public education in Georgia. And school safety wasn’t just a priority; it was a mission. We worked to advance additional school safety measures and ensure our kids are safe in the classroom and on the field. The House passed legislation to:

• Fund $162 million for additional school security grants to K-12 public schools to improve school safety (HB 67 and HB 68).

• Fund a statewide literacy initiative to improve reading outcomes for students in grades K-5, including new literacy coaches and universal reading screeners (HB 68 and HB 307).

• Keep cell phones out of K-8 classrooms (HB 340).

• Prevent biological men and boys from playing in women’s and girls’ sports (SB 1, known as “The Riley Gaines Act”).

• Mandate panic alert systems in schools, ensure campus mapping data is available to first responders, and create real consequences for threats against students, teachers, and school personnel. It also establishes training for suicide awareness and prevention programs for schools. When students and sta feel unsafe in school, they can’t learn or teach properly.

DISTRICT 178

District Address

P.O. Box 178

Screven, GA 31560

Cell: 912-207-0813

FB: @Meeks for State House

REPRESENTATIVE STEVEN MEEKS

• Proven Track Record

• Standing Up for Rural Georgia

• Lowered Taxes to Provide Inflation Relief

• Increased Funding for Law Enforcement

• Fully Funded Schools and Kept Woke Ideologies Out

• Cracked Down on Gangs and Criminal Illegal Immigrants

• Prevented Biological Men From Competing in Women’s Sports

Love

FILLED THE GAP

SIERRA STRICKLAND AND PAYTON PARKER’S SENSE OF ADVENTURE AND DEVOTION TO THEIR FAITH LED THEM TO THEIR HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Story by JOHN RIDDLE

Photography by EMMA KIRCHOFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Over the past several years, many recent high school graduates and college students take what has become known as a “gap year” before going on to college or taking a job in the workforce. Most are looking to learn more about themselves, ponder their futures, and find some inner peace as they start their lives in the real world. Few go looking to find a spouse.

Blackshear native Sierra Strickland and Payton Parker from Austin, Texas had never met before they both decided to take their break during the same year and at the same place with World Race: Gap Year. Sierra had just finished high school, and Payton had started college. An organization whose mission is for its participants to “learn more of God, [themselves], and [their] calling,” World Race o ers this nine-month program to young people aged 18 to 20 who seek to combine their faith with a sense of adventure and service. After training for three months in Gainesville, Georgia, they spent five months on mission trips to Ecuador and Guatemala.

They became “best friends and secretly in love,” Sierra says. Though the World Race leadership was aware of their budding courtship, all participants sign a pact that they won’t date while in the program. They were both faithful to that—until the last day, when, with the blessing of their counselors, they finally

Below Sierra and Payton with Sierra’s family, Serge & Kim Strickland and her brother,

Right Sierra’s bridal gown is from Gracie Anna’s Bridal Boutique.

Hardt.

“Our care for others and love for God is really what drew us together.”

–Sierra

Sierra’s Advice to New Brides

“My pastor’s wife, Kami Roberts of Bridge Community Church in Blackshear, gave me some sound advice:

Don’t spend your entire engagement preparing for one day. If you spend that whole time focused just on the wedding, then when it’s over—that’s it. You’ve wasted the time you had to prepare for your marriage. Practice patience and kindness. Learn to say, ‘I’m sorry.’ Learn to bite your tongue and pray together. The wedding day will come and go, but your love, your lives together, and the vows you take are forever.”

discussed their feelings with each other. “We talked and decided to give long-distance dating a shot, and that lasted for four years,” she explains. “God carried us through, and the rest is history.”

“Our care for others and love for God is really what drew us together,” Sierra emphasizes. They’ve found their di erences complementary to their personalities. “Payton is a video game-playing, film-loving, graphic designer from Texas, and I am a boutique-loving, Louis-Vuitton carrying, social media guru and southern belle from Georgia,” she laughs. “Yet, somehow, we work perfectly together. We’re both very creative but in di erent ways.”

The wedding and reception took place at Horse Stamp Inn in Waverly, Georgia. “When I walked in, my heart was overcome with peace, warmth, and a sense of ‘home,’” Sierra says. “It was just what I wanted. I felt God’s peace.”

The bride’s day was filled with nostalgia from photos of her grandparents on their wedding day and first looks with her father, Payton, and her bridesmaids. She was caught o guard was when her 16-year-old brother cut in on her father-daughter dance. “There was a not a dry eye in the place—especially mine,” she recalls. “It was such an unforgettable, precious moment.” OL

Our Wedding

Married April 26, 2025

Wedding & Reception at Horse Stamp Inn

Wedding Bands by Crawford’s Jewelers

Bridal Gown by Gracie Anna’s Bridal Boutique

Catering by Twisted Sisters Catering

Wedding Flowers by Foxy Posh Events

Bridal Bouquet by Blackshear Flower Shop

Bridal Gowns | Mother of the Bride Dresses | Little White Dresses | Tuxedos

Honoring 15 Years of Exceptional Cardiac Care

PAVING THE WAY FOR GROWTH

Fifteen years ago, a vision took root in our community: providing unparalleled cardiac care, close to home. Now, as Memorial Satilla Health’s Heart Center proudly marks its 15th anniversary, that vision has blossomed, saving countless lives and establishing a legacy of excellence.

While celebrating this significant milestone, the hospital looks to a future of continued growth, welcoming Dr. Eduardo Venegas, whose fresh perspective complements the deep-seated expertise of longtime cardiologist Dr. Timothy Catchings. Excellence remains at the heart of the care Memorial Satilla Health’s team provides. The Heart Center recently received a five-star rating for pacemaker procedures from Healthgrades, placing it among the nation’s top 10% in this sector.

Ensuring continuity of this high-caliber care has been a top priority. “As I get closer to retirement, we knew a transition plan was necessary,” says Dr. Catchings. Hospital administrators began actively recruiting for another interventionalist to join him several months ago; Dr. Venegas joined the team in August of last year and continues to take on additional administrative and clinical duties.

Dr. Catchings isn’t ready to hang up his hat just yet. “I went into cardiology to help people who are sick and patients su ering from bad diseases,” he says. “I enjoy the instant gratification that comes with seeing people rebound from no heart rhythm to a steady one. When someone is writhing in pain because their artery is blocked, we can stop that quickly. A patient who can’t breathe because of a massive clot is another problem we can solve right away. We pull the clot out and they pink up, look so much better, and want to go home the same day.”

Dr. Venegas’ passion for cardiology is driven by the same motivation as well as a desire to follow the example his grandfather, a longtime pediatrician in his home country of Honduras, laid out for him. “My grandfather’s idea of practicing medicine was to help people who have fewer resources, serving small communities with little access to care,” he explains. “I wanted to practice in a place like that, too. My idea was always to serve in a small, rural area. People here really need the care.”

HEART CENTER HISTORY

Memorial Satilla Health’s cardiology team has performed nearly 3,500 interventional cardiac procedures and thousands of diagnostic catheterization procedures.

Dr. Catchings was hired in 2008 to assist with applying for and implementing the new therapeutic cardiac catheterization program. The first percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed in February of 2010. “This important milestone ensured advanced cardiovascular care would be provided to our community without the inconvenience of transfer to Jacksonville, Savannah, or Atlanta,” Dr. Catchings says. “Many of our patients present with an acute myocardial infarction or heart attack and need immediate intervention.”

WHAT IS A PCI?

Imagine your heart’s blood vessels are like hoses that deliver water (blood) to your garden (your heart muscle). Sometimes these hoses can get clogged up with gunk, making it hard for enough water to get through.

A PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) is like “drain snaking” your heart’s clogged hoses.

Instead of major surgery, doctors go in through a tiny opening, usually in your wrist or groin, and thread a thin tube with a tiny balloon on the end of it up to the clogged spot in your heart’s blood vessel. They then inflate the balloon, which pushes the gunk aside and opens up the vessel. To help keep it open, they often leave a small, mesh tube called a stent behind which acts like a little sca old to hold the hose open. This allows blood to flow freely to your heart again, relieving symptoms like chest pain and helping to prevent heart attacks.

In addition to performing PCIs, the Heart Center team conducts other diagnostic and therapeutic procedures including diagnostic cardiac and peripheral angiography, intracoronary ultrasound and flow reserve studies, peripheral endovascular revascularization, intracoronary lithotripsy, and thrombectomy for pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis as well as implantation of cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Both cardiologists are excited for future growth of the program, including new service o erings like the new shockwave technology launched in January to break o calcified coronary plaque and the upcoming launch of Impella procedures.

Impella is a tiny device—about the size of a pencil—inserted into the heart without major surgery. The device works like a miniature motor, allowing the patient’s own heart muscle a chance to rest, recover, and heal.

Dr. Venegas is promoting the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and looks forward to o ering new services that are typically only available in larger healthcare facilities. Both physicians are focused on growing clinic volume by expanding their outreach to surrounding communities.

As the Heart Center moves forward, it does so with a legacy of innovation and steadfast commitment to the heart health of this community.

Memorial Satilla Health is a mission-driven, community-based health system with a 231-bed full-service hospital. Our tradition of care began more than 60 years ago and continues today with more than 600 employees, physicians, and volunteers. The hospital serves as a regional referral center for more than 185,000 residents across nine counties in Southeast Georgia. Key services include an emergency room (ER) treating more than 47,000 emergencies each year; Heart, Cancer, Surgery, Rehabilitation, Sleep, and Birthing Centers with specialists trained specifically for these needs; and an extensive mental health program for senior adults and those su ering with memory loss.

For more information about our cardiology services at Memorial Satilla Health, contact (800) 352-6762.

LEFT Dr. Eduardo Venegas, M.D.; Dr. Timothy Catchings, M.D.

Scan the QR code to learn more about our advanced cardiovascular services.

One of the greatest rewards of redesigning a home is being able to show it o to others and entertain friends and family. This special section highlights the transformation of two such spaces, including the story of Zack Lee’s full-scale renovation of a charming cottage and a look at Robin Cauley’s signature touches in her own home, such as the cool and breezy rear entry from the patio and pool (right). With walls painted in Sherwin Williams’ “Open Air” and original art by a Jacksonville-based painter above a travertine-topped iron console table, this space says “Come on in!” to all who enter.

From Lee’s curated finds and bold reworking of architecture to Cauley’s clever and practical design tips, these pages will surely inspire you to make the place you call home a warm, original reflection of your unique tastes and personal style.

PHOTO BY Brittany Jury Photography

Creating a Room That Defines You HOME

Robin Cauley’s Transitional Style Blends Modern With Traditional

ItSTORY BY John Riddle

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Brittany Jury Photography

took Robin Cauley 15 years after earning a marketing degree from the University of Georgia to find what she truly loves: interior design. Afterall, it takes more than a degree to put together something beautiful. It takes natural talent, and Robin seems to have that in abundance.

Robin has worked with a variety of clients through the years and has been a designer with Lott’s Furniture. But, perhaps her most discriminatory and particular client is herself.

Her home is like an interior design workshop with everything seemingly in its perfect spot, placed with extreme attention to detail and thoughtfulness to its surroundings. “My home is my hobby,” she says. And, it shows.

For her own space, Robin prefers a “transitional” style—a blend of modern and traditional elements. “I like a bit of an eclectic look,” she explains. “Like using antiques mixed with new pieces that create the feel that you’ve lived in the space for years and have curated the look over time.”

Here are some tips on how she approaches the design concept for a room:

• Scale is very important—oversized furniture can ruin the design. Start by measuring the space and selecting one of the largest objects that will be in the room, like a sofa or rug, and any focal points, like fireplaces, you want to emphasize. You should design the room from there.

• Start from the floor and go up. The right flooring is vital to pulling a room together. With carpet you may not want or need a rug, but with hardwoods or tile, a rug will add visual interest and help absorb sound.

• Trending colors are neutrals and blues, but having two or three accent colors, like coral or red, makes the room more interesting. They provide warmth to the room and your heart.

• Window treatments add visual interest besides being functional by providing privacy. The trend is using panels with hooks that slide on a rod that can be closed when desired.

• Accessories (lamps, picture frames, books, etc.) help complete the room by making your house feel more like a home.

More than anything, Robin believes a person’s home should be a reflection of themselves, their lives, their hobbies, and what they love. Her home certainly is.

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by

In

and

tables provide a backdrop for accent colors. An antique secretary adds visual interest and warmth to the room while providing contrast to the metal-framed coffee table.

FAR RIGHT Robin has incorporated sentimental pieces and family heirlooms as accessories like the pair of old glasses and her grandfather’s pocket watch.

Robin’s home is like an interior design workshop with everything seemingly in its perfect spot, placed with extreme attention to detail and thoughtfulness to its surroundings.

ABOVE

RIGHT

Robin’s den, cream-colored walls

a white sofa flanked

burlwood

LEFT A gold starburst mirror paired with modern white vases stand in stark contrast with the other more traditional elements in the room, in keeping with Robin’s transitional style.

ABOVE The matching Bradstreet chairs covered in a geometric fabric help anchor the room. The mahogany television cabinet matches the warmth of the secretary. Solid window panels have a colorful braid on the insets that ties in with the chairs.

“The most important element of any design is understanding the client’s vision.”

With over 20 years of interior design experience at Lott’s Furniture, Robin Cauley has worked with a wide range of residential and commercial clients helping them create spaces that they are both proud of and long to be in. She is very familiar with balancing diverse ideas, budgets, and particular tastes. One thing is constant: her approach to understanding the client’s vision.

“I involve clients in the selection of finishes and design decisions rather than telling them what they should do,” Robin explains. “It’s important to find out whether they prefer a neutral palette or a more colorful design, and understanding colors they don’t like is as important as the ones they do like. Color is very important—it sets the tone of the room.”

One of the most important steps in the design process is a site visit to fully understand the client’s vision for the space, to get an idea of the scale, and to take exact measurements. “Important elements of the overall design concept can be determined, like the floor plan, any focal points like a fireplace that can be emphasized, the type of flooring, and any accessories or sentimental items the client wants to use,” Robin explains.

Robin’s process includes putting together a presentation offering different palettes of colors, fabrics, furniture, and layout that can take weeks to prepare. “Most people need help visualizing how the room or space will look. They want reassurance they’re making the right decision,” Robin says.

Whatever the final design concept is, it’s important to Robin they are part of the formulation of their space. “I want to like the design because I created it,” Robin says. “But I want my clients to love it. They are the ones who will live in it.” OL

Robin Cauley

Interior Designer/Sales

Lott’s Furniture

912-283-6350

robin@lottsfurniture.com

Many of the furniture selections shown here are available at Lott’s Furniture.

A Cottage Reborn

Zach Lee’s sophisticated home brings together his art, interior design, and flair for the eclectic

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY JURY PHOTOGRAPHY

Zach Lee has known his calling as an artist and entrepreneur since he was a teen and has been determined to follow it. The owner of Zach&Isabelle in downtown Blackshear, Lee started coloring his mother’s hair when he was only 13. “As a single mother, she couldn’t always a ord to go to a salon,” he says.

At age 18, with no previous experience in flower arranging or interior design, he walked into Blackshear Flower Shop and asked for a job. The owner told him to redesign the front window and that would let her know if he was worth hiring. He got the job that day.

Two years later, in 2004, he enrolled in cosmetology school in Augusta and got his first job at a local hair salon. Upon graduation in 2006, he moved back to Blackshear. Soon afterwards, on the same day his grandmother passed away—with no local clients and nothing more than an idea and determination—he took a business plan to open his own salon to a local bank. “The banker asked, ‘What was plan B?’” he recalls. “There is no plan B—I have to make plan A work,” was his response. He got the loan that day and promptly opened the original Zach&Isabelle.

He moved to Charleston, South Carolina in 2016, where he worked in a salon building his reputation and a strong client base, all while keeping Zach&Isabelle open in Blackshear. He split his time, working alternating weeks in Charleston and Blackshear. With the COVID pandemic on the rise in early 2020, he started going to his clients’ homes to style their hair, an arrangement he really enjoyed better than being in a salon. But in the back of his mind, he knew he wanted to move back to Blackshear permanently.

In 2022, with the trend of people moving from big cities to small towns in full swing, he followed his heart. “It was time to move home,” he says. “I love this town, and I wanted to move back and expand the salon.” His love of travel helped seal the deal, since he thought it would be easier to live in Blackshear and travel from there rather than Charleston. He maintained a client base in Charleston and continued working there one week a month while focusing on plans to expand Zach&Isabelle.

He also had ideas for improving Blackshear by adding social o erings and helping to revitalize the town. He was particularly inspired by a couple from Sumter, South Carolina whom he met at a dinner party in Charleston. They owned a construction company and had invested in their hometown by opening a boutique hotel, a restaurant, and even developing a golf course. What struck Lee most was that the membership dues from the golf course funded a charter school—free of charge to any child in the community who wanted to attend.

“They worked to improve the place they lived—not just through business, but by creating charm, opportunity, and a sense of pride,” he explains. That vision stayed with him as he thought about what was possible for downtown Blackshear.

One aspect of his vision was to rehab a home on Main Street in downtown Blackshear. In December of that year, when the charming, unassuming cottage on Main

Street—next door to where his mother lived as a child—went on the market, Lee saw the opportunity. He tapped into the same determination that had always driven him by being the first person to submit a bid, even writing a letter to the seller stating why he wanted the home so badly.

Lee, who had been living with his parents, closed on the house in January of 2023 with renovations lasting 16 months. He moved into the house in June of 2024.

That was a busy year for Lee. In March, he had begun renovating space for the new Zach&Isabelle, which opened in September on Central Avenue, across the street from the original salon. Soon afterwards, he stopped traveling to Charleston, where he had still been working one week a month—a move that brought him full circle, back home for good to Blackshear.

In addition to running Zach&Isabelle, Lee has also taken on his own interior design clients. While making design decisions for them comes easy to him, he finds it challenging when designing a space for himself. “If I’m helping others, I’m very decisive, but when it comes to decorating my own spaces, I need help—someone to reel me in and help make the best decisions,” he explains.

He credits his late maternal aunt, Patti Girardin, for nurturing his passion for interior design. “Aunt Patti was really the

one who helped me learn more about it and encouraged me creatively,” he says. “She was an interior designer, and my mother and her other sister always dabbled in it by helping friends and neighbors.” He still consults with them in his creative endeavors.

Utilizing a mix of antiques and mid-century modern elements—and even his own original art—Lee has created a warm, sophisticated home for himself and his Goldendoodle, Presley. He’s quick to credit his friends and family for their help in making his dream of renovating the cottage a reality.

Its eclectic design, filled with furniture befitting a well-traveled man with a taste for bespoke pieces, tells his story. His ideas are ever changing, heavily influenced by his frequent travels. Back from a recent trip to Italy and Greece, he laughs, “I want to redecorate the house now.”

With a deep love for his hometown and a vision far bigger than himself, Lee is quietly helping turn a small town into something extraordinary—one thoughtful detail at a time. “Blackshear is stitched into the fabric of who I am,” he says. “Every paintbrush stroke, every haircut, and every idea is a thank-you note to the place that raised me. I just want to make it even more special—for the people who’ve always been here and for the ones still finding their way home.”

The house at 739 Main Street

The Courtyard

The side yard of the house was the perfect spot for a courtyard. The white gravel provides a light undertone for the shady area.

had been home to an elderly couple who had two sons, one of whom had lived with them his entire life. That son left the home to his attorney, who took ownership upon his passing. Lee immersed himself in the history of the house and the story of the family who had lived there. “The attic was filled with mementos and family photos,” he explains. After salvaging as many of the family’s heirlooms as possible, including a collection of pipes from the original owner which are displayed in the butler’s pantry, Lee got to work on redesigning the home over the next year with Sonny Bowen as his general contractor. While maintaining the home’s original character, they made changes that facilitate a modern lifestyle and Lee’s love of entertaining by widening doorways and taking down walls to create a better flow between the rooms.

The Living Room

The living room is the largest space in the cottage and sets the tone for the style in the other rooms. French doors open to the sunroom, which was converted from a screened porch. An archway leads to the dining room and provides a line of sight through the butler’s pantry and into the kitchen.

RIGHT An eclectic chair, another consignment shop find, paired with an antique, turned-leg drop leaf table with an original abstract piece of art displays Lee’s penchant for mixing styles.

ABOVE The matching Milo Baughman parsons chairs covered in a Schumacher Janis velvet are consignment shop finds that Lee says “his friends thought he was crazy for buying.”

TOP The living room and the kitchen are both painted a lighter color than the dining room’s darker hue. This technique, which Dorothy Draper utilized at the Greenbriar Hotel, draws one’s eye through the rooms and makes the space appear larger.

Nurtu d t HOME

Lee’s first painting is displayed on a side wall of the living room. He started painting seriously about 10 years ago. He also credits his aunt, Patti Girardin, for nurturing his art. “When she saw this piece, she was so impressed she wanted to represent me in the art galleries in Charleston,” he explains. Sadly, that plan was interrupted when she lost her untimely battle with cancer. Because of his love of music, which he always has on in the background, he named his first several paintings after the songs that were playing as he finished them. Lee inherited the Fisherman painting above the fireplace from Girardin who acquired it in Paris.

The Sunroom

Lee converted a screened porch on the right side of the house off the living room into a sunroom with two walls of windows. The comfortable space is great for playing games. The floor to ceiling black-out curtains convert the space into a media room for watching television.

HOME

The home's eclectic design, filled with furniture befitting a welltraveled man with a taste for bespoke pieces, tells his story. Before

BELOW The antique oyster table is a rare find designed for tableside oyster service. It features brass linings for holding ice with compartments for the oysters and other spaces for oyster knives and sauces.

The Dining Room

The dining room, the central space in the house that joins the living room and butler’s pantry, is set up for Lee’s love of entertaining. Unique wooden armchairs with fabriccovered seats and backs surround a large, round dining table. The windows, which look out into the courtyard, provide generous light. A Chinese screen flanks one wall.

The Kitchen

The kitchen was enlarged by taking out the wall behind the stove and merging it with the space that was the original laundry room. Windows provide ample natural light. The white-and-black checkered tile extends from the butler’s pantry.

The Butler’s Pantry

The butler’s pantry was originally a breakfast nook between the kitchen and dining room. Lee eliminated the original swinging door and made an archway which he moved to the right to align with the archway in the kitchen. He also eliminated the door from the breakfast room to the hallway to allow for cabinetry. The blackand-white tiled floor matches the floor in the kitchen. A window looks out into the courtyard. OL

Before

Before

Grace Under Swelter

With a shift in shadows and chilly water at hand, we endure another South Georgia summer

By BRANDON CHONKO

Brandon Chonko is owner of Grassroots Farms (www.thegrassrootsfarm.com) in Waverly. His writing has been published in Garden & Gun, and he is host of the Grassman Radio Hour on 93.7 The Bridge in Brunswick.

Follow him on social media @GrassrootsFarmsGA and @GApasturedbirds

Ithink it’s the shift of the sun. It does it to me every year, every mid-summer, every sweat-soaked, bug-bitten, beautiful mid-summer—the shift that always sets my mind towards autumn.

Funny, I know, considering it’s a million degrees outside, but consider the shift. Consider those post-solstice shadows. They get longer. Sure, it’s subtle. Still, all you have to do is look. They do it every year. The shift comes, the shadows lengthen, and my mind drifts to football, cool mornings, and fall planting.

As the summer heat reaches its merciless crescendo, in the shift I catch a glimpse of hope. A promise of seasonal relief and renewal. A butterfly perched atop a flower, the rays of sunlight illuminating its wings, perfectly in tune with every detail of everything there is, everything there isn’t, and everything that is still yet to be. In the shift, in those wings, I find myself, sweat-soaked, bug-bitten, and completely in this moment, completely enraptured. I want to stay here forever, dirty and pure, where soaring kites hold court overhead and snakes slither nonchalantly, as if nothing at all ever happens away from here that would

ever hold any sway over anything that happens right here.

I revel in this South Georgia kingdom of dirt—a kingdom unto itself, bequeathed to itself, mastered by none, the rhythmic frequency free to all who choose to tune in. And I consider the graces of the Southeast Georgia summer: The pool. The beach. The river. Truly they have eased our su ering, cooled our bodies, and brought joy unto our hearts. As long as there’s water—gimme some of that cool, cool water.

The summer of ’25 has been one for the books. A grand time for sure. As the mercury rose into the upper 90s, a gentle chorus swept the pineywoods. “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity” became a familiar rallying cry. And an ethos. Walloped by July, we’re now limping toward the finish line of summer and loving every minute of it, much in the way a boxer enjoys the pummeling or the football player embraces the grind of two-a-day practices.

If su ering heat can atone for past regressions, consider our slate clean. Or if su ering through heat atones for nothing and the salvation is the su ering itself, then consider us salvaged. Summer is nothing without spring or fall, so onward we trudge, until we reach the next glorious season. OL

Illustrations by ROBIN HARRISON

I consider the graces of the Southeast Georgia summer: The pool. The beach. The river. Truly they have eased our suffering and cooled our bodies and brought joy unto our hearts. As long as there’s water—gimme some of that cool, cool water.

PROFILES

PCHS LADY BEARS

A TEAM WAYAbove Par

2025 STATE CHAMPION PCHS LADY BEARS BROOKE DIXON, MOLLIE KATE DIXON, MACKENZIE CONNELL, CHLOE LYNN, BELLE SINCLAIR

Four times a champion in as many years, Pierce County High School (PCHS) women’s golf is now one of the most enduring championship programs in Georgia high school sports. The PCHS Lady Bears golf team claimed the 2025 Class AA State Championship on Monday, May 22 at Maple Ridge

Golf Course in Columbus. PCHS fired a two-day score of 322, vastly outdistancing runner-up Hart County, which carded a 367.

“Special” is the word PCHS coach Stuart Stipe most readily uses to describe his group of players. “They work hard and are very deserving of the

championship,” he says. “Their physical and mental toughness were probably what created the 35-stroke victory.”

Final team scores were tabulated using the best two individual scores from day one plus the best two scores from day two. Every member of the PCHS playing

Story by JOHN DUPONT / Photography by THERESA ALONSO, CAPTURED GRAVITY PHOTOGRAPHY

“CHAMPIONSHIPS AREN’T WON DURING THE SEASON, AND ADOPTING THAT MENTALITY HAS MOTIVATED ME DURING THIS OFF SEASON TO IMPROVE MY GAME.”

–Brooke Dixon

foursome finished in the top 10 individually. Mackenzie Connell, the lone PCHS senior, copped state medalist honors for the second time in her prep career, coming in at eight over par, 12 strokes better than the state runner-up. Teammate Mollie Kate Dixon, meanwhile, finished third individually with fellow Lady Bears Brooke Dixon and Belle Sinclair bringing home individual finishes of eighth and ninth places, respectively. Junior Chloe Lynn served as the contingent player for PCHS.

Maple Ridge, a championshipstyle course designed by former Masters champion Larry Mize, features some of the most challenging plays in all the Chattahoochee Valley with its array of fairways, water hazards, and bunkers. To boot, golfers braved six hours of typical South Georgia spring weather in the opening round, but Connell’s 75 combined with Dixon’s score of 87 gave PCHS a 15-stroke lead in the clubhouse.

“Leading up to the tournament, I was a little anxious—only for the unknown,” says Stipe. “Once the girls got on the course, though, it

was what we’ve done all season: fairways, greens, and two-putts.”

Tee-time temps for day two began in the 70s and reached 90 by midday. PCHS added 20 more strokes to its lead, though, led by Connell’s 77. Mollie Kate Dixon, meanwhile, took four strokes off her opening round score of 87, closing the tournament with an 83 in the second round.

“Collectively, they all battled for 36 holes,” notes Stipe. “Some holes were good while others were a struggle. That’s where that mental toughness was the difference. They had reasons to pout, complain, and even quit, but they didn’t. Just like in life, they had to keep competing.”

In addition to winning the last four girls’ golf championships, PCHS has also won five of the last six state titles dating back to 2019 (no championship was held in 2020). Across all classifications of Georgia high school sports, only four schools can currently make an equal or better claim. Such an achievement brings reflection from each of the Lady Bears.

“Being a state champion shapes me into becoming the best golfer I can be and reaching my full

potential,” Connell says. “The past four years of high school golf have been the best four years, not because of the championships, but because of the memories and friendships. Each year has pushed me to become a bigger and better athlete, but most of all, it has led me to love the game.”

Closing out her prep career as a two-time state medalist (2023, 2025), Connell also claimed a runner-up finish in 2024 after finishing third overall as a freshman in 2022. In eight career state championship rounds, her 18-hole average is 73.5, having never carded a score higher than 77. Now, she heads off to play at the University of North Georgia.

Mollie Kate Dixon, meanwhile, stands poised to carry on the legacy of PCHS as she moves into her junior season. “Representing the Lady Bears golf team is an absolute honor,” she says. “Going into my second state championship, after already having won the previous year, gave me confidence while also pushing me to work harder than ever before. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Sinclair also looks forward to

Lone PCHS Lady Bear senior Mackenzie Connell with her trophies for Georgia High School Association AAA Girls Golf State Champion 2022, AA Girls Golf State Champion 2023, AA Girls Golf State Champion 2024, and AA Girls Golf State Champion 2025.

The 2025 Class AA State Championship PCHS Lady Bears at the Maple Ridge Golf Course in Columbus in May (Photo provided by PCHS Ladies Golf Team).

PROFILES

PCHS LADY BEARS

With four straight state championships in as many years,

most the

“BEING ABLE TO CARRY ON THE TRADITION OF LADY BEARS GOLF BRINGS OUR TEAM TOGETHER UNDER ONE UNITED GOAL AND GIVES US A TARGET TO WORK TOWARD BOTH AS A TEAM AND AS INDIVIDUALS.”

–Belle Sinclair

two more seasons in Bearville, drawing upon the experience of championship-round scores of 89 and 93. “Winning state championships with such great teammates has encouraged me throughout my golf journey,” says Sinclair. “It helps make the dedicated time even more worth it. Being able to carry on the tradition of Lady Bears golf brings our team together under one united goal and gives us a target to work toward both as a team and as individuals during the off season.”

Brooke Dixon, like her elder sister and teammate Mollie Kate, scored lower on day two, completing the championship with rounds of 91 and 90. “Experiencing the tradition of the state tournament and Lady Bears golf makes me want to work that much harder to be

better in all aspects of the game,” says the younger Dixon, a rising sophomore. “Championships aren’t won during the season, and adopting that mentality has motivated me during this off season to improve my game.”

Connell departs Bearville as the only golfer in PCHS history to win four titles in four years. The only other golf figure in PCHS to amass four championship rings is Coach Stipe, who previously led the varsity boys to state titles in 2009 and 2017.

“The ‘x-factor’ is the tradition we have here in Pierce County,” Stipe says. “Those who have come before us set a standard—an expectation. For me, it’s no longer about the titles and rings. It’s about the memories and life lessons.” OL

PCHS Lady Bears Golf is one of

enduring championship programs in Georgia high school sports.

SOUTHERN ROOTS, GLOBAL REACH WITH MUSCADINE PRODUCTS CORPORATION

In the heart of South Georgia, nestled among 800 acres of vineyard in Irwin County, Muscadine Products Corporation (MPC) is turning a uniquely Southern grape into a global commodity.

Led by fifth-generation-farmer Chris Paulk, the family-run business has evolved from selling fresh produce to grocery stores into an innovative supplier of ingredients for cosmetics, supplements, and wellness products. Thanks to support from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and its Trade team, MPC is now taking antioxidant-rich muscadines to the world.

“What’s commonplace around my house is exotic to these guys,” says Paulk, who has introduced muscadine extract to ingredient buyers from Atlanta to Toronto. “They’ve never heard of a muscadine, but usually they are looking for something that’s unique, new, and different, with anti-aging benefits or that formulates well.”

Recognizing the potential in international markets, Paulk recalled thinking, “Well, I’m not going to find anybody by just sitting here.” After joining the Trade team’s email list, attending a few events, and learning more about trade opportunities, Paulk was hooked. “It’s always a joy working with them,” he said.

Although Paulk no longer remember how or when he first connected with GDEcD, he has leaned on GDEcD to navigate what can be a complex export process. For instance, when a customer needed a specific certificate of origin format, Paulk turned to the Trade team. “They said, ‘Oh, I remember someone else had that issue, too. Go see these guys – they can help you with that particular kind of format.’”

Though MPC has already shipped to companies in Asia and North America, Paulk sees even greater opportunity ahead. “One day the volume will be sufficient to put in a container – we want to ship

container loads to those guys,” he explains. “That’s how much we can fill domestically.”

The path hasn’t been without challenges. “It’s a long sales cycle. My products are formulated into other products – not direct-to-consumer sales,” Paulk notes. Despite these hurdles, MPC’s future is full of promise.

“On the local and regional front, we’d love to see our wine business expand – more distribution, more stores throughout the South,” Paulk says. “In the ingredient business, I can see us working with companies making healthy natural products around the world.”

Learn more about the services Georgia offers to local business at Georgia.org/trade

HEARTH HOSPICE has been providing compassionate and high-quality hospice care for years; let us know how we can serve you.

We are proud to announce that our Hearth Hospice team has received the 2025 Hospice CAHPS Honor! This

prestigious annual review recognizes hospices that continuously provide the highest level of quality care as measured from the caregiver’s point of view. We are proud to serve our community and honored to receive this recognition.

Hailey Laycock, CL; Jessica Tanner, RN, PD; Terralyn Brown, CL; Casey Turner, RN, CD

PROFILES

SUZANNA WOODALL

SmallTown Charm, BIG-HEARTED OPPORTUNITY

On May 12, the Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Suzanna Woodall—a small-town girl from Alma with an aptitude for journalism—as its new president. As it turns out, her love for a good story is the very thing that makes her passion for community enrichment newsworthy.

Woodall grew up an avid reader thanks to her mother, Amy, an English Language Arts

teacher. As she moved through high school and college, Woodall’s interest in reading and writing grew, and strong communication became her forte.

She names Sharon Komanecky, her high school business teacher and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club advisor, as an influential mentor. “My sophomore year, she took us to Athens for an FBLA event,” recalls Woodall. “We toured the University

“NETWORKING, ASKING QUESTIONS, AND GENUINELY HEARING WHAT PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY HAVE TO SAY IS IMPORTANT. OUR CHAMBER IS WHERE EVERYONE’S INPUT MATTERS AND EVERYONE’S VOICE IS HEARD.”

Story by MARLANA HUFSTETLER

Photography by ALLEN ALLNOCH / AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

“PEOPLE HERE CARE DEEPLY ABOUT WHERE THEY LIVE AND WORK, AND IT SHOWS IN HOW THEY SHOWS UP FOR THEIR CHAMBER, THEIR CITY, AND EACH OTHER.”

of Georgia’s (UGA) Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, and I knew that’s where I wanted to be.” Woodall went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication in December of 2024.

Shortly after graduating from UGA, Woodall’s enthusiasm for people and their stories opened a new door. “Ms. Komanecky approached me about the [Chamber Director] opening and said she thought I’d be a great fit, and I was immediately interested,” she says. Woodall’s strong foundation in communication and public engagement is just what the Chamber needed to jumpstart enrichment. “With experience in storytelling and writing, I’ve learned how to craft messages that resonate with diverse audiences,” she says. “I find that asking our members questions and being a thoughtful listener has taken me a long way since I stepped into the role.”

For Woodall, listening to local voices is the first step in establishing the right connections for meaningful growth.

“I care about fostering strong local economies through small business

support, workforce development, and strategic partnership,” she says. “Networking, asking questions, and genuinely hearing what people in the community have to say is important. Our Chamber is where everyone’s input matters and everyone’s voice is heard.”

Connecting with local members and businesses—prioritizing their goals and garnering collaborative success—means keeping community members’ best interests at the heart of her work and their shareable experiences in mind.

So far, her favorite part of the job is hearing first-hand accounts about the positive impacts business owners and leaders have made locally. Still, there’s always room for improvement. “One thing I’m looking forward to learning more about is workforce development and how we can aid our members in finding long-term, dedicated employees,” she says. Right now, Woodall is also working to bring back quarterly Lunch & Learns for local businesses and employees. “We’re hoping to highlight soft skills, allowing smaller businesses who may not have talent development programs

or resources to participate and benefit from ours,” she notes.

Only three months in, Woodall has already witnessed the community’s strong sense of togetherness. It’s Ware County’s pride and unbending collaborative spirit that tells the town’s future story. “People here care deeply about where they live and work, and it shows in how they show up for their Chamber, their city, and each other,” she says. “One of the reasons I chose Waycross is that it has that small-town charm but bighearted opportunity too.” OL

For more information, visit waycrosschamber.org or contact Suzanna at suzanna@waycrosschamber.org 912-283-3742

Woodall with Lonnie Roberts, Coastal Pines Technical College President (left) and Bryan Hartley, WaycrossWare County Chamber Board Chair.

PROFILES

TERRY BREDEN

TerryBreden brings an impressive resume to his new role as General Manager at Okefenokee Country Club (OCC). He spent much of the past decade working at a pair of upscale clubs in the Jacksonville area, first at Atlantic Beach Country Club and then at Queen’s Harbour Yacht & Country Club. He was Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager at both locations, a background that appealed to the OCC board during the interview process.

“We were really interested in improving our restaurant quality,” says OCC board member Greg Higginson. “With weddings and other events, and everything from Southern cooking for a Sunday bu et to bar food, it’s a pretty wide range of expectations out there. He can do everything from the southern fried cooking that we’re all used to, to fine wines and fine dining. We want to be the best restaurant in town and give the best products we can to our members.”

Higginson says Breden’s creative programming ideas also caught the board’s attention. “One of the other things that impressed me is that Terry has some good ideas on how to include kids and families by doing some events like movie nights on the driving range, having moms’ and parents’ nights out, and things like that,” Higginson says. “That helped set him apart. He talked about how much he just loves the club dynamic and serving the members.”

Indeed, Breden says hospitality has been the perfect career fit. He entered the industry after a stint in the Army, taking an F&B director position on a Jacksonvillebased casino ship.

“Then they closed that location,” Breden explains. “I had a two-year-old daughter at the time, and I thought, ‘I just want a server job—just a steady job.’ That turned into a career. I found my calling when I started

M E A N I N G FUL

ME M B E R S H I P

WITH A PASSION FOR HOSPITALITY AND SMALLTOWN LIVING, TERRY BREDEN HAS BIG PLANS FOR OKEFENOKEE COUNTRY CLUB

Story and Photography by ALLEN ALLNOCH / AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

working in country clubs. I really enjoy everything about them. They’re fun. They’re unique. You get to know people on more of a personal level.”

Breden began work at OCC in June 2025, and he’s already found a close-knit community. The small-town vibes of Blackshear and Waycross were a selling point when he was considering a move from his native Jacksonville. He knew nearby Folkston well, having enjoyed childhood camping trips in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, and his wife, Lisa, is from Fitzgerald. The couple have two children—a daughter, 12, and a son, 18 months.

One of Breden’s previous supervisors helped bring him to Blackshear: “My bar manager at Atlantic Beach Country Club had retired two years ago. She got a call from one of her friends who said, ‘Hey, there’s a country club in Georgia that’s looking for somebody who has a lot of food and beverage experience. Do you know anybody who would want to relocate?’ She said, ‘I’m retired. I’m not doing it, but I have somebody perfect for you.’ And she called me.”

“My wife is used to the small-town life, and now that we have a little boy who wants to be wild and free, we decided it was a good move for our family,” he observes. “The Pierce County school system is great. The Southern hospitality, the board, and all the members I’ve met have been very welcoming.”

“WE WANT TO HAVE MORE THEMED EVENTS, GET THE MEMBERSHIP MORE INVOLVED, AND HAVE MORE MEMBER INTERACTION. THAT’S TRULY WHAT COUNTRY CLUBS ARE FOR.”

–TERRY BREDEN

As General Manager, Breden’s management responsibilities include F&B, golf operations, and social programming. His first hire was a head chef, and he’ll also need to fill an opening for a head golf professional. His goal is to maintain the club’s rich golf tradition with the broader variety of amenities and activities.

“We want to have more themed events, get the membership more involved, and have more member interaction,” Breden says. “That’s truly what country clubs are for. Yes, we have an amazing golf course, and golf courses are great for the community. But we want something for those who don’t play golf—something for the kids and other opportunities to energize people.”

Breden spent his first month on the job commuting from Jacksonville. Now, he and his family are settled into their new home in Pierce County.

“He’s really embraced the Pierce County and Ware County area,” Higginson says. “He wants to raise his family here and be here for the long term. We had a feeling he wanted to embrace our culture and make us better. Some people want to come in and be totally di erent, and we’ve tried some of that in the past—you know, where you get food you can’t recognize. With Terry, we have the best of both worlds.”

Breden agrees. “The potential here is great,” he says. “I’m excited about the opportunity.” OL

Okefenokeecountryclub.com 912-283-7400

PROFILES

THE TALKI FOUNDATION PROMOTES DIABETES AWARENESS

Approximately 1 million Georgians, about 12.4% of the state’s population, are living with a diabetes diagnosis, and an additional 234,000 people in Georgia have diabetes but don't know it yet, greatly increasing their health risk.

MemorialSatilla Health is proud to host the new “912 Diabetes Initiative,” a support group for people with diabetes and their caregivers in Ware County and surrounding areas. Organized by the Talki Foundation, this program will hold monthly meetings to provide valuable educational resources and a chance to connect with others. The Foundation will also host expert guest speakers who will present on various topics related to healthy living and diabetes management.

over the course of many years, with risk factors including excess weight and lack of exercise.

Mitch Mongell, Interim CEO of Memorial Satilla Health, is proud of the hospital’s support of the e ort.

“Our mission extends beyond providing acute care. We are committed to fostering long-term health and well-being within our community,” explains Mongell.

“Managing diabetes is a daily journey, and it often comes with unique challenges

“Managing diabetes is a daily journey, and it often comes with unique challenges and questions. I’m incredibly proud that our hospital is hosting this support group, another testament to its great work in delivering health education and resources to our community.” – MITCH MONGELL

The Talki Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Charlie Komons, is dedicated to assisting Southeast Georgia’s diabetic patients. The Foundation achieves this goal by raising awareness and promoting diabetes education.

“Residents here in Southeast Georgia are being devastated by diabetes. These monthly meetings will give everyone an opportunity to learn about their condition,” says Komons. “Education and awareness are the first and most important steps in controlling this challenging disease.” Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune response and usually appears in adolescents and young adults. Type 2 diabetes develops

and questions. I’m incredibly proud that our hospital is hosting this support group, another testament to its great work in delivering health education and resources to our community.”

About 1 in 7 Americans, approximately 14% of the population, su ers from diabetes.

A significant percentage of diabetics need insulin, and the country spends about $245 billion on diabetes management annually. With diabetes, the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it as well as it should. When there isn’t enough insulin, the body stops responding to it, and too much blood sugar remains in the bloodstream. Over time this can cause serious health

(Left) Amber Green was recognized as the Talki’s Foundation 2023 Person of the Year for her work in promoting education and diabetes awareness. (Above) Dana Studebaker, an advocate for diabetes, was also one of the speakers at the first 912 Diabetes Initiative meeting. She has also launched a Facebook page for recipes and nutrition ideas after her diagnosis.

problems, such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

“The primary goal of the Talki Foundation is to help direct patients to get the support they need,” Komons explains. “The first step for patients is knowledge and education.” The foundation is working to help patients across Southeast Georgia. OL

HOW TO

PARTICIPATE

WHEN First Tuesday of every month

The Railway Express Agency’s Community Room at 315 Plant Ave. in Downtown Waycross REGISTER memorialsatillahealth.com/calendar or 844-630-5295 FOR MORE INFO talkifoundation.org

HOSPICE SATILLA JUNIOR BOARD

A New Generation of Compa ion

Story by JULIE TANNER, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, HOSPICE SATILLA

provided by

HOSPICE SATILLA

Thirty-five juniors from Ware County High School, Pierce County High School, and Brantley County High School are proving that leadership and compassion have no age limit. As members of the 2024–2025 Hospice

“I discovered the wide range of benefits this organization o ers to

help loved ones.”

–REEGAN SMITH

Satilla Junior Board of Directors, these students have taken on a powerful mission: to raise awareness and funds for Hospice Satilla while learning the true meaning of service, empathy, and community.

“The Junior Board

is an amazing program. It really helps change someone’s perspective about hospice.”

–YOG PATEL

“It’s provided me with numerous opportunities to meet new people and

make a di erence.”

–CAYDEN SMITH

Photos

Brantley County High School (back row) Jacie Riggins, Jayden Chancey, Clayton Barker, Mallory Chesser, Yog Patel; (front row) Jayden Lewis, Gina Cavagnaro, Austin Duncan, Kaycee Johnson

Ware County High School (back row) Jasmine Anderson, Mackenzie Fogle, Matthew Davis, Cash Carter, JV Manabat, Gabriella Dent, Jayda Jones; (front) Natasha Anderson, Olivia Eunice, Olivia Ray, Maria Tellez, Carlie White, Cece Romero, Cayden Smith

Pierce County High School (back row) Ansleigh Cyr, Jeb Bradley, Olivia Bennett, Grayson Rodgers, Claire Murray, JC Nimmer; (front row) Ava Doss, Reegan Smith, Belle Sinclair, Lana Harto, Carley Sloan, Miley Simmons

Often misunderstood, hospice care is more than end-of-life support—it’s about quality of life, dignity, and helping families navigate one of life’s most difficult seasons with support and grace. Through their year-long commitment, these young leaders are helping reshape perceptions in their communities, one conversation at a time.

“The Junior Board is an amazing program,” says Yog Patel, a student from Brantley County High School. “It really helps change someone’s perspective about hospice. You get to know hospice for what it really is without all the standing assumptions. It’s a great opportunity that everyone should consider.”

Junior Board members not only learn the ins and outs of what Hospice Satilla offers, but they also roll up their sleeves to make a tangible difference. This year, their efforts culminated in the fourth annual Cowboys for Kids fundraiser, held May 30 at the Ware County Saddle Club. The event raised funds for Camp Hope, a one-day grief camp designed for children ages 5 to 18 who are coping with the death of a loved one. Set for October 4 at the Georgia Lions Camp for the Blind, Camp Hope will feature small group counseling sessions, art therapy, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, and more—all tailored to help children process their grief in a safe, supportive environment.

For many of these student leaders, the Junior Board experience goes far beyond extracurricular involvement. “The Hospice Satilla Junior Board of Directors has allowed me to learn about the importance of serving the community,” says Ware County High School student Cayden Smith. “It’s provid-

PROFILES

ed me with numerous opportunities to meet new people and make a difference.”

Pierce County High School Junior Board member Reegan Smith echoes this sentiment.

“During my time on the Hospice Satilla Junior Board, I learned the importance of hospice care,” she says. “I discovered the wide range of benefits this organization offers to help loved ones. What I loved about the Board was its involvement with the community. It’s very important because it allows students to go out and talk about the importance of donating to hospice. It also gives them the opportunity to inform people about the valuable services that hospice provides.”

Their efforts are guided and inspired by Hospice Satilla Junior Board Advisor Julie Tanner, who brings a deeply personal connection to the mission. “People often don’t realize what they don’t know. I experienced this firsthand when Hospice Satilla stepped in to care for my precious sister, Toni Renee Carter,” Tanner shares. “That experience sparked a deep passion in me to educate our communities about hospice care, beginning with the younger generation, who can carry this awareness forward.”

Junior Board members who complete their term can also return as Hospice Satilla Ambassadors during their senior year, continuing their advocacy and deepening their understanding of hospice care.

These students are more than just volunteers—they’re changemakers helping to create a more informed, compassionate, and connected community. With hearts full of purpose and a passion for helping others, the Hospice Satilla Junior Board is showing Southeast Georgia what it truly means to serve. OL

Brantley County High School scholarship recipient Yog Patel with Director of Community Engagement Julie Tanner

Pierce County High School scholarship recipient Reegan Smith with Emilie King

Ware County High School scholarship recipient Cayden Smith with Emilie Kin and Julie Tanner

Cowboys for Kids

Hospice Satilla Junior Board members culminated their efforts at the fourth annual Cowboys for Kids fundraiser, held May 30 at the Ware County Saddle Club.

Giving Hope Stacey’s Journey as a CASA Volunteer

In the small but close-knit community of Waycross, Stacey’s journey as a CASA volunteer began when her daughter left for college. For years, her volunteer activities were tied to her daughter's activities. When she became an empty nester, she found herself searching for a new and meaningful way to give back. “I wasn’t doing anything, and I thought, maybe I need to do something,” Stacey says. When she saw a sign for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), she decided to explore what it meant to advocate for children in foster care. Five years later, Stacey remains dedicated to her role, supporting teens and older children—an age group she feels drawn to.

Stacey’s first case continues to this day, five years strong. “I still have the same kids that I started with,” she says. Reflecting on her experience, Stacey explained that working with teens has been especially impactful. “I really mesh well with the older kids. They can communicate what their needs and wants are a little better.” One of her most rewarding experiences was taking on a second case and supporting a teenager on her road towards graduating high school and taking steps toward college. “Being part of helping her design a plan and seeing her continue on her path was really powerful.”

casa@myactionpact.org 912-809-6072

Southeast Georgia CASA is seeking more volunteers like Stacey, as over 500 children in the Waycross area are in need of advocates. While volunteering may seem like a significant commitment, Stacey assures it’s manageable. “It’s not life-altering, but it takes some time. So why not you?” Volunteers have the flexibility to take on cases that fit their schedules and make a meaningful impact in the lives of local children. The CASA program offers training to equip new volunteers with the tools they need to support children in foster care, no special qualifications required—just a commitment to making a difference.

As Stacey puts it, “If we can make a lasting impact—whether it’s for a fouryear-old or a teenager—then what more could you ask for?”

Our providers are passionately committed to providing you with the high-quality medical care you deserve and remain dedicated to the values of compassion and personalized patient care.

You may not have known that in addition to our wonderful internal medicine clinic, we also offer a full line of non-invasive aesthetic services for the face and body, available to women and men of all ages.

INTEGRITY AESTHETIC SERVICES

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INTEGRITY HEALTH & WELLNESS

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808 Beacon Street Waycross, GA 31501 912-490-HEAL (4325) integrityhealthga.com

Dr. Alan Morton, Lauren Turner - Nurse Practitioner, Jonathan Dial - Physician Assistant, David Rios - Physician Assistant

ART & CULTURE

Art by Jorah Blaise Mitchell

Fine Artist & Muralist | Sienna Fox Studio

From the woods and waterways of her Southern childhood to murals stretching across city walls, Jorah Blaise Mitchell has always been guided by nature’s quiet pull. An internationally selling artist, Jorah paints what nature reveals when we slow down and listen. Working primarily in oil and watercolor, her paintings are known for their soft realism, luminous atmosphere, and the symbolic threads that run just beneath the surface.

To learn more about Jorah and her art visit jorahmitchell.com.

OIL & 24K GOLD LEAF ON CANVAS | PHOTO BY ALLEN ALLNOCH / AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY |

Backlit in warm tones and touched with genuine 24K gold leaf, “Unbridled” captures a moment suspended in light. The horse emerges from shadow, its form shaped by atmosphere and glow — a quiet study in strength, freedom, and reverence.

A

N A RT H UB FOR E VERYONE

THE OKEFENOKEE

“There is power in the art we have here if we work together.” – Bob Brown

Art Gallery Director Bob Brown, OHC Director Carla Garrett Cornett, Susan Newman. Photo by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

ART & CULTURE

HERITAGE CENTER

A Thriving Community for Art Enthusiasts of All Ages, Skill Levels, and Disciplines

STORY BY ALLEN ALLNOCH

In 2019, Susan Newman had recently retired from a career in education and was ready to focus on her art. A painter, she was seeking a place to connect with other artists, and she found it at the Okefenokee Heritage Center (OHC).

“What brought me [to the OHC] was that I didn’t know anybody else who did art,” says Newman, who now chairs the OHC Art Guild. “When I got here, I learned that lots of people in this town do art. It’s like you connect with one person, then another, and you just keep expanding. Without that, artists can be lonely.”

The OHC is celebrating its 50th anniversary throughout 2025, and art has been an integral part of the center’s mission since its opening. In her 2018 autobiography, “Let’s Talk About Me,” OHC visionary Sue Clark wrote, “An appreciation for the arts in their various forms—visual, music, and drama—first gave support to having the OHC. We recognized the importance of cultural enrichment and enhancing the quality of life in this area.”

Throughout that time, the OHC has served as a community and showcase for local and regional artists. It’s also drawn the attention of curators at the state level. Soon after its opening, the OHC’s first art exhibit was a traveling show from the University of Georgia featuring a variety of Georgia artists that remained at the center for two months.

Thanks to the leadership of Director Carla Garrett Cornett and Art Gallery Director Bob Brown, the OHC continues its exhibitions and is increasing its profile at the state level.

Brown owns Brown Ink Gallery, an artist agency, graphic design studio, and art gallery in Waycross. He and his wife, Diane, spent years working as artists in New Jersey and New York before returning to their native Southeast Georgia in 2019. The Browns immediately began volunteering at the OHC, where Bob has drawn on his experience in the New York City arts community to raise awareness of the center across Georgia and beyond.

In spring of 2025, Brown and Cornett teamed up to acquire “REIMAGINE: Contemporary Georgia Artists,” a traveling exhibition of select works from the Georgia Council for the Arts’ Georgia State Art Collection. The OHC was filled to capacity for a ribbon-cutting event celebrating the exhibition, which remained on display in Waycross from May 12 to June 20. “REIMAGINE: Contemporary Georgia Artists” visited 10 cities around Georgia, with each stop expanding the exhibition with new artwork from local artists.

“Bob is putting us on the map,” Cornett says.

“Nocturne in Amber”

THRIVING GUILDS AND ICONIC ART COMPETITION

Brown’s observations go hand-in-hand with the OHC’s place as an artist community. Within the organization’s framework, a handful of guilds o er opportunities for deeper levels of connection. In addition to the Art Guild, the OHC is also home to the Photography Guild as well as guilds for quilting, writing, model trains, and more.

Brown shrugs o the compliment, saying, “we all have to do it collectively.” While working in New York, Brown represented multiple artists, allowing him to harness multiple marketing powers under one umbrella. He’s taken a similar approach to his work at the OHC.

“There is power in the art we have here if we work together,” he explains. “That’s what has happened with the ‘REIMAGINE’ exhibition. The Georgia Council for the Arts is not going to come to an individual studio, but they’ll come here [to OHC]. We’ve been serving the many counties in Southeast Georgia, and there are a lot of artists out there, so we’re now a resource [for organizations such as the Georgia Council].”

These guilds are not exclusionary. From novice to expert, everyone is welcome, as Ware County High School teacher Rachel Williams Grimes learned when she joined the OHC Photography Guild in late 2024.

“I fell into the Photography Guild by accident,” Williams Grimes says. “While passing through Philadelphia, I took a picture of a spectacular sunset over the Ben Franklin Bridge. I entered it into the Judge Ben Smith

Jorah Mitchell

Waycross artist Jorah Mitchell, past winner of the Judge Ben Smith Art Competition. Photo by Jason Mitchell

RIGHT The OHC was filled to capacity for a ribbon-cutting event celebrating the “REIMAGINE: Contemporary Georgia Artists” exhibition, which remained on display in Waycross from May 12 to June 20.

Photo by Robert Wallace

“I’m grateful the OHC recognizes that artistic expression is a vital part of life—that by sharing who we are and what we see, we help build a stronger community.”

– Rachel Williams Grimes

long-time State Court Judge for Ware County and passionate champion for the arts. A talented artist himself, Judge Smith began organizing a juried art show in 1978. O cially named the Judge Ben Smith Art Competition in 2010, the annual exhibition features work in four categories: painting, graphics, three-dimensional, and photography.

Waycross artist Jorah Mitchell, a past winner of the Judge Ben Smith Art Competition, has been a fixture in the OHC arts community, from teaching art classes and camps to showing her work in various art shows.

Art Competition as a kind of a kickstart toward doing new things for myself, and the picture got second place. At the reception, people joked that I was now an o cial photographer and had to come to the meetings.

“I was hesitant before the first meeting,” she continues. “I expected a group of seasoned professionals who would laugh at me and my Pixel 6. Instead, I found a bunch of people who are just passionate about photography.”

The art competition Williams Grimes mentions is a flagship event at the OHC. It’s named for Judge Benjamin Harris Smith Jr., a

“The Okefenokee Heritage Center is invaluable to the local and regional arts scene,” Mitchell says. “It’s given me a space to connect with other artists and build lasting friendships, and it’s also helped get my work the visibility it needed. Beyond shaping my career, OHC has given me confidence in my art and in myself. The connections and experiences I’ve gained there are truly irreplaceable.”

With the work of talented artists such as Mitchell on display in the Judge Ben Smith Art Competition, Brown thinks it ultimately will attract an even deeper talent pool and broader audience.

“I have ideas in terms of using the competition as a fundraiser and also opening it up to artists as far away as North Florida and South Carolina,” Brown says. “We’re in a phenomenal position at the OHC. Look at all the gallery space—artists would love to exhibit here.”

ABOVE Barbara Lykens (second from left), a long-time Art Guild member, was instrumental in securing a dedicated exhibition space at Memorial Satilla Health. The hospital gallery recently was named in honor of Lykens, who passed away in 2024.

Photo of Barbara Lykens provided by OHC Gallery photos by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

County State Court Judge

He began organizing a juried art show in 1978 that is still a flagship event for the OHC. It was named the Judge Ben Smith Art Competition in 2010.

TALENT OF ALL AGES

The OHC’s welcoming spirit reaches artists of all ages, for its gallery walls are as open to children and teenagers as they are to adults. Area youth artists are regularly featured among the rotating exhibits in any given year.

“From kids to retired people, we touch everyone,” says Cornett, who marked her six-year anniversary as OHC Director in August 2025. “Especially for youth, we have art camp each summer, and we’re able to exhibit their art, which gives them confidence. It’s a wonderful avenue for them to showcase their art.”

Meredith Youngblood, a student at the College of Coastal Georgia, can attest to the OHC’s impact on her development as a young artist. She attended the OHC’s Summer Art Camp, eventually serving as an instructor.

“My experience at the Okefenokee Heritage Center is one I value deeply,” Youngblood says. “I began attending art-centered events as a shy 13-year-old, unsure of my abilities. Joining the OHC Art Guild at such a young age opened countless doors for me. I had the opportunity to learn from and be mentored by incredible artists who truly understood and nurtured my creativity.”

A who’s-who of local and regional artists has been compiled within the OHC arts scene over the years. The Photography Guild was initially formed in 2005 with original members Charlotte de La Vergne, Phyllis Perry, Benny Lariscy, and Rev. Larry Lane. The Art Guild, led by mural artist Roland Thurston, Nancy King, Dot Sasser, and Dottie Ferguson, followed suit in 2008. Award-winning photographer Wayne Morgan has been a regular contributor to OHC exhibits. Other influential artists include Marie Matthews, one of the premier watercolorists in Georgia, and Angela Renee Moss, who grew up in Waycross and earned a reputation for her realist paintings.

For over a decade, artwork by OHC painters and photographers has been featured outside of the OHC, initially at the Okefenokee Country Club and now permanently at Memorial Satilla Health. Barbara Lykens, a long-time Art Guild member, was instrumental in securing a dedicated exhibition space on the hospital’s main hall. There’s also an overflow display space outside the imaging department.

The Memorial Satilla gallery recently was named in honor of Lykens, who passed away in 2024. “She loved the arts, and she wanted there to be a place for us to hang our work on an ongoing basis,” Newman says.

Thanks to visionaries like Lykens, Sue Clark, and the many artists of the OHC over the years, the arts are alive and well in Southeast Georgia. As Clark wrote in her autobiography, the OHC’s early emphasis on the arts “has been an enormous help in developing a strong and wide interest in the arts throughout this region.”

With the now 50-year-old institution on North Augusta Avenue serving as a hub, the arts will no doubt continue uniting people from Waycross and beyond.

Williams Grimes sums it up well: “As a 55-year-old widow nearing retirement, I’m grateful the OHC recognizes that artistic expression is a vital part of life—that by sharing who we are and what we see, we help build a stronger community.” OL

Art has been an integral part of the OHC’s mission since its opening in 1975. A number of guilds formed over the years, including this group that made up the early Art Guild in the mid-2000s.

Photo provided by OHC

TOP Local artists’ work displayed at the OHC, which has served as a community and showcase for local and regional artists for 50 years.

Photo by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

Long-time Ware

Ben Smith was a talented artist and passionate champion for the arts.

Photo provided by OHC

Life’s too short for boring fi nances.

Brow

WHY I STILL JUMP AND SPRINT

AND WHY YOU SHOULD TOO

Article by PATRICK SIMMONS, NASM-CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER

Somewhere in our 30s, many of us quietly stopped doing the explosive things we did as kids. We stopped jumping. We stopped sprinting. We traded dynamic movement for desk jobs, long commutes, and slower routines.

But here’s the truth: that has to change.

Explosive movements like jumping and sprinting aren’t just for athletes or Olympic hopefuls. They’re for all of us. No matter your age, maintaining these skills to the best of your ability is non-negotiable if you want to stay strong, balanced, and resilient. Why? Because jumping and sprinting build more than just speed and power. These movements promote:

• healthy bone density

• a responsive core

• a strong, resilient pelvic floor

Every time your foot hits the ground in a sprint or you land from a jump, your pelvic floor is working—absorbing impact, stabilizing your core, and teaching your body how to react and recover. These are essential foundations for lifelong movement and independence.

Our bodies were designed to move with force, purpose, and intention. At some point, many of us just stopped. But it’s never too late to start again. Skip explosive movements long enough, and weakness, instability, and even leakage can start to creep in. But the good news? It’s reversible. You don’t need to sprint for miles:

• Walk to one corner, then sprint to the next

• Repeat that cycle for a set period

SPRINTING, JUMPING, AND RUNNING BUILD STRENGTH, COORDINATION, AND CONTROL IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES: YOUR HIPS, YOUR CORE, YOUR HEART, AND YOUR MIND.

Challenge yourself to jump as far as you can, repeatedly. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your power returns. Your jumps will get longer. Your sprints will get faster. And your body will thank you.

Sprinting, jumping, and running build strength, coordination, and control in all the right places: your hips, your core, your heart, and your mind. These movements are a reminder that you’re still strong, still capable, and still in control of your fitness journey.

Here in Waycross, we’re lucky to have great spaces to move. Whether it’s Sweat Fitness, Planet Fitness, the YMCA, or one of our local parks and walking trails—get up, get out, and get moving.

Just don’t stop. Keep moving forward. And if you need help getting started, I’m here. Reach out to me—let’s jump into this together.

PATRICK SIMMONS NASM-Certified Personal Trainer (912) 337-6062

Learn more about Patrick Simmons at psapatricksimmonsathletics.com @patrick_simmons_athletics

| Photography by ALLEN ALLNOCH / AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

AWARDS BANQUET

The 90th Annual Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet was held on August 21st at C.C. McCray City Auditorium. The event recognized outstanding businesses and individuals for their work and community involvement in 2024.

Anne Barksdale, Chairman’s Award presented by Bryan Hartley

Paige Coker, Katherine Foss Education Award presented by Dr. Lynn Barber

Anthony Thomas, McGregor Mayo Agricultural Award presented by Austin Bagby

Lisa Durrence, Paul Tang Heart of the Community Award presented by Hedi Tang

Steve & Marla Howell, Jack Williams Community Service Award presented by Jack Williams

Jonathan Abbott, Randy Sharpe Health Hero Award presented by Briana Abbott

Preyen Patel of Fairfield Inn & Suites, Business of the Year presented by Daniel Morris

Christie Anna Smith, Entrepreneur of the Year Award presented by Gil Smith

David Turner, Ralph and PO Herrin Business & Industry Award presented by Jason Rubenbauer with Bill Raulerson

Melissa Ingle, Jack Lott Economic Development Award presented by Kathryn Taylor

PIERCE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 70TH ANNUAL AWARDS

ThePierce County Chamber celebrated its 70th Annual Awards Banquet on April 24th at Okefenokee Country Club. The event, titled “Blue & Platinum, A Legacy of 70 Years,” included a silent auction and recognized 10 businesses and individuals with community awards for their outstanding contributions in 2024.

Hannah Grant on behalf of Mossy Pond, Business Leader of the Year

Julie Griner, Love Like Lana Award, with husband Chip

Zach Lee, owner of Zach&Isabelle, Better Hometown Award

Neal Bennett, Neal S. Dow Nimmer Jr. Award, with wife Tammy

Staci Lucas on behalf of Southeast Georgia Womens Center, Community Health Award, with Stacey Thrift and Debra Golden of Hospice Satilla

Shirley Davis on behalf of the late Leon Davis, Citizen of the Year, with Kevin Davis and Bucky Goble

Rhonda Melton Bennett, Huel P. Walker Educator of the Year, with Katrina Cone and Dara Bennett

Billy Cochran of Barber’s Pharmacy, Years of Service Award

Ed Barber & Sons, Farmer of the Year, with Aaron Moore and James Jacobs

Pastor Justin Gambrell, Leona Dixon Bright Spot Award

DANCING WITH THE SOUTHERN STARS

The 10th edition of Dancing With the Southern Stars was held on August 9th at the Ware County Middle School Auditorium. The event raised $166,861.70 for two beneficiaries: Magnolia House and Waycross Area

Community Theater (WACT). Thirteen teams competed, and additional entertainment was provided by singer John Glosson and Golden Isles Belly Dance. Photography by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography.

1st Place, Entertainer of the Night and Judge’s Choice: Randy Buck, Aubree Buck

1st place, Community Choice: Jackson Hobbs, Ivy Kratzer

1st Place, Best Dressed: Jason White, Jane Ansley Jones

Emcees Clay Thomas, Lori McNease

Hosts/Beneficiaries Roger Johnson (WACT), Michelle Girtman (Magnolia House)

Judges Michael Smith, Stephanie Roberts, Kecia Strickland Garland, Blake Smith

First row, L-R: Michelle Girtman (standing), Jordan Waters, Victoria Taylor, Allie Peagler, Aubree Buck, Allison Holt Herrin, Ivy Kratzer, Emily Graham, Susie Tison, Aubrie Anna Smith, Kendra Keyhea, Jane Ansley Jones, Lauren Carver, Betsy Kingsbury, Lori McNease (standing)

Second row: Roger Johnson, James Wood, Cory Taylor, Scott Mattox, Randy Buck, Casey Thornton, Jackson Hobbs, Jace Riggins, Grant Tison, Philip Smith, Timothy Hattaway, Jason White, Brandon Carver, Stanley Sinkfield, Clay Thomas

WAYCROSS SERVICE LEAGUE BANQUET

The Waycross Service League (WSL) celebrated a year of service, dedication, and fellowship at their May banquet held at Okefenokee Country Club. The mission of the WSL is to foster interest among its members in the social, economic, educational, cultural, and civic conditions of the community. The WSL funds their service projects through their annual events, such as “Racing for Pinks” in the fall and “April’s Fool Rod” in the spring. For more information, visit waycrossserviceleague.com.

Members in attendance at the annual banquet in May

The current Provisional Class at the annual tea to introduce and welcome new members

Colby Robbins and Gavin Faucette (not pictured) both received the Bunchy McClelland Community Service Award. Colby & Madison Robbins with Bailey Blackburn, who accepted the award on Gavin’s behalf.

Stacie Jones, Evan James Perseverance Award, with Ashlyn Waters

President Brianna Abbott, Julia Belle Pierce Dedication Award, with Bailey James

Sustainer Lindsey Thomas, Suzanne Carlisle Trimble Sustainer Award, accepted on her behalf by Marybeth Boyd

Mary Parker Nguyen, Susan Sweat Provisional Award, with Tiff any Harkleroad

2025 Class of Sustaining Members Bailey James, Brianna Abbott, Courtney Bell (not pictured: Ashley Bell, Paige Brand, Rachel Spivey)

BEATS & EATS

BetterHometown Blackshear presented its annual “Beats & Eats” on May 2nd at Blackshear City Park. The event featured featured Mixtape, America’s No. 1 touring tribute to ’80s mixtapes. Local vendors provided refreshments. Reserved tables

filled up early and the park was packed with attendees. For more information or to participate in the 2026 event, contact Bethany Strickland at 912-590-2200 or info@visitblackshear.com.

AHA! Photography

American Eyecare Center

Baptist Village Retirement Communities

Bed’R Furniture & Mattress

Bone & Joint Institute of South GA

Brittany Jury Photography CASA

Coastal Pines Technical College

Crawford Jewelers

Dairy Queen

Economic Tourism

Esthetic Central

Georgia’s Own Credit Union

Global Partnership for TeleHealth

Gooey’s Pizza

Gracie Anna Bridal Boutique

Hearth Hospice

Heritage Pro Coatings

Homerville Jewelers

Hospice Satilla

Integrity Health & Wellness

Joy Sumner Photography

Lott’s Furniture

aha.photography

americaneyecarecenter.com

baptistvillage.com

bedrfurnitureandmattress.com

bjisg.com

Brittany Jury Photography myactionpact.org coastalpines.edu crawfordjewelers.com dairyqueen.com

ecblackshear.com georgiasown.org gpth.org

gooeyspizza.com

gracieannabridalboutique.com hearthhospice.com heritageprocoatings.com homervillejewelers.com hospicesatilla.com integrityhealthga.com

joysumnerphotography.com lottsfurniture.com

Main Street Blackshear

Marsh McLennan Agency

Memorial Satilla Health

Mossy Pond

My Waycross GA

Okefenoke EMC

Okefenokee Swamp Park

Partners Risk Services

Pierce Timber Company

Primesouth Bank

ReJoyce Aesthetics & Wellness

Representative Steven Meeks

Southeast Georgia Health System

The Avriett House

The Clark Eye Clinic

Three Boys Bakery

Tim’s Home Medical

Walker Jones

Waycross Bank & Trust

Waycross Convention & Visitors Bureau

White Star Supply

Zach&Isabelle

visitblackshear.com marshmma.com memorialsatillahealth.com

mossypondlodge.com waycrossga.gov oremc.com okeswamp.com partnersrs.com

piercetimbercompany.com primesouth.com rejoycewellness.com

sghs.org avrietthouse.com

clarkeyeclinic.com

Three Boys Bakery

Tim’s Home Medical-Waycross walkerjones.com wbt.bank waycrosstourism.com whitestarsupply.com

Zach&Isabelle

Presley, Zach Lee’s Goldendoodle | Photo by BRITTANY JURY PHOTOGRAPHY