Wayne County Magazine Spring 2020

WAYNE OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

Special Feature

10 FASHION & STYLE

A pictorial guide to the latest fashions and style for spring and summer.

is wearing an easy wear maxi dress from Everly that meshes life and fashion in a beautiful pink floral print with soft ruffle details and a self-belt that ties at the waist. Her shoes are multi pearlized metallic surplus strap heels in woven honey leather and burlap by Toms. Hannah is wearing an ethereal, feminine, pink and white floral dress with smocking at the bodice by Fate Clothing Co. Her shoes are Raffia bottom Matisse. Chrisine and Hannah’s fashions are from David’s Clothing. For other fashion descriptions see the “Fashion & Style” section on pages 10 – 19.

21 A HERO’S JOURNEY

Patrick Robert Lee Rogers-Delegal has a story to tell, one of great inspiration and encouragement.

28 ACTIVE,

HAPPY, AND NATURAL

Healthy Pet has a thriving global manufacturing presence in Wayne County.

35 LIVING BY FAITH

After beating all odds, Matt and Deena are living the life they always dreamed of with their daughter, Faith.

HOME & GARDEN

42 HOME IS WHERE OUR STORY BEGINS

To tour the home of Jiggs and Peggy Riggins is as much a family history as it is an architectural and design achievement.

52 DEIDRA ODUM

Every home should have a unique design.

55 LANDSCAPING

Could your yard be a certified wildlife habitat?

56 LINDSEY CORAL HARPER

Tips for building a gallery wall.

About the Cover: Melissa Blanton, EllaJaye Bowers, Brittany Bowers, Tess Blanton, Chrisine Paul, and Hannah Paul representing advertisers David’s Clothing and Mine & Yours Boutique. Other fashion retailers involved include Prissy Hen Boutique and Caroline’s & More Boutique. Many thanks to Lex & Joy Kennerly for use of their home for the fashion shoot. Photo by Mattie Genaux Photography. About the fashions: Chrisine

HOMEGROWN

59 SIMS’ FAMLY FARM

‘A farm is more than land and crops. It is a family’s heritage and future.’ This is the perfect adage of the life that Craig and Kim Sims have built here in Wayne County.

PROFILES

66 RUN WITH A PURPOSE –It’s a God Thing

Cassy Langley started the Run with Purpose 5K that benefits local cancer patients and their families.

71 WHERE THE HEART IS –Hospice of South Georgia

Hospice of South Georgia, the area’s only nonprofit hospice, is where the patient truly comes first.

73 TWIRL MANIA COACH OF THE YEAR

Gina Jeffords, owner of Gina’s Gems, has been named 2020 Twirl Mania International Coach of the Year.

74 HIGH COTTON

Kent Fountain has been selected to lead the National Cotton Council in 2020.

77 GIRLS ON THE RUN

A program for girls at Odum Elementary School incorporating lessons on inner well-being with exercise for physical well-being.

80 SMALL CITY – BIG DREAM

Screven Mayor Jason Weaver has big dreams for his small town.

87 ART & CULTURE:

Photographer Mattie Genaux and artist Candice McKinley share their creative processes, astrophotographer Don Cahill photographs the heavens, and students celebrate as art is back in elementary schools.

105 AROUND WAYNE

Where to go and what to do in Wayne County. Highlighting the Chamber’s Community Calendar of Events.

111

TALK OF THE TOWN

Showcasing Wayne County’s People, Places, and Events

58 ARTICLE

ROAR - Living to Your Full Potential - Melissa Moxley

Taking Mental Health Seriously

Food Contributor Susan Goehring offers appetizers for your spring and summer soirees.

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Mailed to subscribers (certain magazines); delivered to advertisers and local, elected officials; placed in professional and medical offices, civic clubs, retail shops, hotels, rooms, restaurants, chambers of commerce, tourism and visitor centers, and more.

FROM THE Publisher

FJohn Riddle 912-424-3027

Wayne Magazine

To advertise, subscribe, or if you’re interested in writing, photography or have story ideas, email us at info@showcasepublicationsga.com contact us through our website at showcasepublicationsga.com Distribution: Mailed to subscribers (certain state, and federal elected officials; placed in professional and hospital waiting rooms, restaurants, chambers of commerce, John Riddle 912-424-3027 Connie Riddle 912-424-8772

or some, change isn’t easy. Others embrace it as an opportunity for new ideas and better ways of doing things toward a never-ending goal to be the best they can be. We like change! And, we are proud to introduce some changes in this issue of Wayne Magazine

The first, and most recognizable, is the name - Wayne Magazine – along with a new masthead and logo. New design elements make the magazine even more appealing visually and help draw readers into the pages. You’ll also enjoy new features, and enhanced sections that provide more information readers can use.

This issue features a “Fashion & Style” section with the latest spring and summer fashions that highlight local retailers, including David’s Clothing, Mine & Yours Boutique, Caroline’s Boutique & More, and Prissy Hen Boutique. We’re continuing the “Home & Garden” section that provides a tour of one of our community’s most notable homes. It also includes articles and ideas on how to make your home even more beautiful.

In the Food section, our food contributor, Susan Goehring, provides simple, yet elegant, and delicious recipes for your Spring and Summer gatherings. One thing that hasn’t changed is the features and profiles that celebrate the uniqueness of Wayne County’s personalities and their achievements, along with organizations and events, that make our community the place we love to call home.

It takes a lot of people to make Wayne Magazine possible. We are grateful for the people who open up their lives, and the writers, photographers, and designers who bring their stories to life. And, a special THANK YOU for the advertisers! Even in the digital world in which we live, magazine advertising continues to be the most credible form of advertising. Readers are more inclined to take action from magazine ads than any other type of advertising. We encourage you to thank the advertisers in person for helping make Wayne Magazine possible by visiting their business and “buying local!”

Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy this enhanced issue of Wayne Magazine! And, when you’re done, share it with friends!

John & Connie Riddle

info@showcasepublicationga.com

Editors and Publishers

John F. Riddle & Connie K. Riddle

Showcase Publications, Inc.

Creative Director

Robin Harrison

Caffeine Generated Graphics

Content Manager

Candice McKinley

Cover Photography

Mattie Genaux Photography

Contributing Writers:

Candee Harris, Melissa Moxley

Deidra Odum, Shauna Mattingly

Lindsey Harper, June Thomas Susan Goehring

Melba Bennett Murphy Angel Harmon

Photographers

Mattie Genaux Photography K. Lyn Photography

Davontay Wilson Photography

Candice McKinley, John F. Riddle

Forever Young Photography by Ellen

Designers:

Robin Harrison, Russ Hutto

WAYNE MAGAZINE is published bi-annually by Showcase Publications, Inc. For information on advertising, submitting articles, or photography: (912)-424-8772

P.O. Box 391 • Jesup, GA 31598 info@showcasepublicationsga.com To Subscribe: showcasepublicationsga.com

Other magazines published by Showcase Publications, Inc.: Valdosta Magazine / Okefenokee Living Jeff Davis Living / Emanuel County Living Washington County Living Traditions Highway Magazine & Travel Guide

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.

To advertise, or have contact

DReaders FROM OUR BRAZIL

EENA, MATT & FAITH BENNETT visited their former exchange student, Paula Mozzini, in Brazil last Christmas. They took Wayne Magazine with them to Monmento ‘a Independencia do Brasil, a Monument to the Independence of Brazil in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

WAYNE MAGAZINE has traveled thousands of miles with some of our readers over the last few months! Take Wayne Magazine with with you on your next trip. Get a picture holding the magazine and send to us. Leave Wayne Magazine behind so others can read about our wonderful community and its people.

Pictures and/or letters can be sent to: info@showcasepublicationsga.com or mailed to: P.O. Box 391; Jesup, GA 31598

COVER FEATURE

“Beautiful, sweet, intelligent, and a true joy to know them all!”

– Janet Reach Keith

“Awesome group of young ladies.” – Nancy Martin

FOOD SECTION

CLAY & SANDRA BETHEA

“They’re an amazing couple!”

– Barbara Brown Todd

HALIFAX

KATHY DEKLE HARDEN, Rene’ Calhoun Bickley, Monica O’Quinn, and Karen Stewart Smith with Wayne Magazine in Halifax, VA.

“If this lady is serving it, I’m always eating it.”

– Amanda Griffin

I WENT COASTAL!

IwasaPoliceOfficerfor9yearsandwasreadyforacareer change.I’dpreviouslyattendedaUniversity,butIwanted amorehands-onlearningexperiencethistime.Technical collegegivesyoutheopportunitytolearnintheenvironment youwillbeworkinginaftergraduation.

Coastal Pines offers 40+ career paths in high demand career fields where high wage jobs are waiting for skilled employees.

Low cost or free tuition allows grads to invest in their dreams after college rather than student loan payments.

Photography by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

FASHION Style& a

s Spring approaches

and the weather begins to warm, it is a time to celebrate dressy occasions such as Easter, Mother's Day, and Father's Day in your finest fashions. Spring also ushers in long, lazy days spent by the lake or on the porch while enjoying family, food, and friends for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July.

What better time than now to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe to make sure when you show up, you show-out too! In our special "Fashion & Style" section, you'll enjoy seeing styles from David's Clothing, Mine & Yours, Prissy Hen Boutique, and Caroline's Boutique. All are showcasing their best new fashions for spring and summer. These exceptional local retailers offer superior customer service and fashion advice that department stores can't compete with.

No celebration is complete without food! We also offer some unique dishes to offer your guests for all your spring gatherings from our favorite "culinary queen," Susan Goehring.

So, as you shake off the winter blues and yearn for sun and fun, shop with our local fashion experts when preparing you and your family to look your best this season! And, see the Food Section for recipes to make your spring soirées even more memorable.

EllaJaye Bowers and Brittany Bowers (Mine & Yours), Hannah Paul and Chrisine Paul (David’s Clothing), and Tess Blanton and Melissa Blanton, (Mine & Yours).

TOP: Carmen Ogden will dazzle at any formal affair the season may bring from weddings, showers and formals in this Winslet Dress featuring a ruffled shoulder detail, fitted waist, zipper with pully detail, and a textured fabric.

BOTTOM: These two ladies complement each other beautifully in dresses with timeless styles. Brittany Bowers is wearing a Zozo magical dress from Buddy Love featuring a cinched, elastic waist, a V-neck with a string that can be tied, ruffled bottom, bell sleeves, and gold foils in the fabric. Tess Blanton is wearing a Kelsey Dress with metallic rose gold fabric with spaghetti straps, elastic ruffled chest detail, and adjustable straps also from Buddy Love.

Melissa Blanton is wearing a Sweet Caroline Dress from Buddy Love which features a bold embroidery, short sleeves, soft material and is lined! It is perfect for any spring occasion.

EllaJaye Bowers is wearing a Lola Dress also from Buddy Love. This dress is perfect for kids that want to match their moms on special occasions and especially on Mother’s Day.

BEST DRESSED Ladies

Spring is the perfect time to show of your latest fashions. The season provides many opportunities too. These ladies are ready for any occasion from a spring brunch to late afternoon tea in fashions from Mine & Yours Boutique where the style is always beautiful and right on trend.

BOTTOM LEFT: Charleston Shoe Company. Classic shoes are handmade by artisan cobblers. Loved by women stateside who appreciate the treaded soles and elastic straps, as well as their wash-ability and versatility. RIGHT: Farrah b jewelry. Adjustable gold plated initial necklace with cubic zirconia stones.

ABOVE: BudhaGirl bangles are all weather bangles that are weightless, soundless, waterproof, Tsa proof, and spa perfect. BudhaGirl bracelets are infused with gold or silver dust. They are also the perfect way to set your intentions for the day.

RIGHT: These must-have new spring leopard print sandals by Chinese Laundry will be the perfect statement piece for any outfit. Floppy Hats are another hot item. Perfect for a day at the beach, pool or any spring event. Change the scarf on this and you can coordinate to go with any of spring and summer’s latest fashions.

Seasonal holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July are the perfect time to host friends for a porch party. These girls dressed in their patriotic best and are ready for the fireworks in their stars and stripes!

PORCH Party

TOP LEFT: Makayla Beverly is wearing a Royal Blue Ruffle top paired with the trendy white mega bells from ISLE. These pieces are perfect to wear together or separately with your favorite accessories.

Brittany is wearing a "Girls Girls Girls" graphic tee with a scoop neck. And, look at those Star Bells which are becoming everyone’s favorite jeans! She will stand out in any crowd with this outfit from Show Me Your Mumu!

TOP RIGHT: There is no doubt about Carmen’s patriotic streak in this ultimate red, white and blue outfit. This red off the shoulder ruffle top is to die for with our striped bells, both from Show Me Your Mumu.

Taylor Blanton can walk into any event in this ultra-versatile white linen blend dress accentuated with button detail down the front and a flutter sleeve from MudPie. This is a perfect dress to show off your accessories.

EVENINGS IN STYLE Summer

Whether you’re headed out for a summer evening or a casual dinner and night out with friends, being comfortable, cool, and stylish is the name of the game. And you can’t go wrong in animal prints which continue to be a staple in every girl’s wardrobe.

RIGHT: Brooklyn Brantley looks ready for whatever the night holds and looks stylish and fashionable in this light overwrap maxi dress with black hat and shoes from Prissy Hen.

LEFT: The TAC Hat Company, owned and operated by two local boys, theme their designs around outdoor living and and provide guys with fashionable, yet practical, cap choices.

RIGHT: This weave straw panama hat, cheetah wedges, and matte gold hoops will add flair to any summer outfit and make others take notice.

WAYNE

Afternoons BY THE LAKE

In South Georgia, as the days warm, it is a perfect time for family and friends to gather by the lake, go for a picnic, or play a fun outdoor game. This group is dressed for a fun afternoon or weekend outdoors in styles from David’s Clothing.

They are comfortable wherever they go in this Chevrolet Silverado from NeSmith Chevrolet. The strongest most advanced Silverado ever, with its “jaw-dropping” tailgate, it has plenty of room and versalitity for afternoons by the lake!

ABOVE: These fun, trendy, seeing eye earrings are the perfect statement piece to make your outfit stand out!

LEFT: Hannah is comfortable in this lined, non-sheer, lightweight white baby doll dress by Jodifl. She is very on-trend and stylish with the swiss dot pattern chiffon, V-neckline, short ruffle sleeves, and ruffle hem. Her shoes are Raffia bottom espadrilles in natural by Matisse. Makayla is wearing flare jeans in super soft denim by Articles of Society. Her short-sleeved V necked top, by Entro Clothing Co., is a basic for everyone’s closet and perfect for any layering need. Her white, open weave sweater-kimono is ideal for any spring outfit for an added layer of warmth and style.

ABOVE: Hannah Paul, Reid Bowen, Makayla McKinnon, Ben Bowen, Jude Bowen, Carson Poppell

ABOVE: Ben and his sons, Jude and Reid, are ready for any father-son outing in these fashionable yet sporty outfits.

Ben is stylish in this Peter Millar summer comfort polo and falg blue Vineyard Break Pants. His shoes, a McDuffy Perf slip-on, and belt are by Johnston & Murphy.

Jude is wearing a mango blue Southern Tide Intercoastal collection sports shirt with stretch along with navy Columbia PFG Performance fishing shorts.

Reid is in a Southern Tide - Tide to Trail boys polo. The color is shoreline. He also has on Southern Tide Channel master shorts in stone.

Both Jude and Reid are wearing Sanuk casual slip-on shoes for boys.

Carson is ready to play in this classic fit Vineyard Vines Tucker Shirt and these seagull grey shorts by Southern Tide. He steps comfortably in his Olukai casual slip-on shoes.

Makayla’s shoes are Bed Stu peep-toe booties in rustic tan leather—known for being genuine, unique, and imperfect.

out in style in

and full-grain leather belt by Johnston & Murphy.

ABOVE:

LEFT: Every man can step

these Truxton Bit Drive shoes

RIGHT: Peter Millar's new cologne, Crown Sport, will bring attention to any man when he walks into a room.

LEFT: Classic Rayban’s complete any best-dressed look.

Girls

NIGHT OUT

There is nothing better than launching into the weekend with a girls’ night out - where girl-power-meets-squadgoals. Of course, every girl wants to look their best and now they can with fashions from Caroline’s Boutique.

ABOVE: Ellie Greene and Jules Craven are ready for whatever the night holds. Ellie is making a statement in her sequin multi-color stripe woven dress and Jules is looking cute and comfortable in this off-the-shoulder, high/low drape hem line featuring a sleek silhouette in cinnamon.

RIGHT: This round, cross-body purse is perfect for carrying essentials. The snakeskin design never goes out of style and matches perfectly with neutral and everyday looks.

RIGHT: Inspired styles list this animal print belt with a gold buckle and gold wedges by Pierre Dumas are everywhere this season.

Story by CANDICE MCKINLEY

A HERO’S Journey

“Don’t

allow yourself to be trapped by your choices. Take a look at yourself. You are a unique person created for a special purpose. Your gifts matter. Your story matters. Your dreams matter. YOU matter.”

- FORMER NFL PLAYER MICHAEL OHER

Everyone’s got a story--a personal narrative written with each decision that person makes. These decisions form a path that becomes the journey of life, and every human being has the potential to become the hero of their own story. In classic mythology, the hero's journey involves an individual who sets out on a quest (life), and in a decisive crisis, wins a victory, and comes back home changed or transformed (departure, initiation, return). This is the hero's journey of Patrick Robert Lee Rogers-DeLeGal.

Patrick’s family moved to Jesup when he was an infant. His biological mother was a single mom, raising three kids on her own. His biological father was in prison. His mother worked three jobs to make ends meet and keep the bills paid until she got sick and wasn’t able to work anymore. The bills began to pile up, the lights started getting shut off, and at 12 years old, Patrick was left with a sense of insecurity that would haunt him for years to come.

Patrick Robert Lee Rogers-DeLeGal’s story is heroic because he evolved, not in spite of his circumstances, but because of them. He has drawn love from heartbreak, compassion from shame, and honor from failure. Photo by Mattie Genaux Photography

Patrick and his sisters left home and moved in with "grandpa," Robert Lee Jones, who took Patrick under his wing. He taught him about becoming a man while anchoring love, structure, and security into his childhood.

Patrick remembers living with his grandfather as a great experience, one that brought him peace and moments of joy.

"He taught me everything I know," said Patrick. "He worked as a truck driver for Billy Poppell’s Produce and he loved it. He was a Godly man and a family man. He put his family before everything else and worried about his needs last." Robert mentored Patrick, instilling in him the value of education. "He said 'School is first. Without an education, you really have nothing to fall back on.'"

Patrick had his mind set on playing football and his grandfather taught him not to put all of his eggs in one basket. "You can always be a football player," he said, "but you still need to have a Plan B.” Robert taught Patrick to be disciplined about getting good grades, and “no grade less than a B was acceptable in grandpa’s house.” “I had this fear of, ‘I can’t let my grandpa down,'" Patrick remembered. He wanted to honor the love his grandfather had shown him.

In contrast, while living with Robert, Patrick's biological father contacted him, wanting to meet for the first time. “I was skeptical at the time,” said Patrick, “because here’s this guy, who I have never met in my life, I have no idea who he is, but, he’s my father. So, I had always had this urge to meet him and get to know who he was, and to see where I come from as an individual.” And so, they met for the first time. “After that, I never really saw him again.”

When Patrick was in 7th grade, he was confronted again with the kind of loss no child should have to

ABOVE: From an early age, Patrick had to face challenges that no child should have to face alone, including the loss of his beloved ‘grandpa,’ Robert Lee Rogers.

OTHER PHOTOS: Through his hard work and dedication, Patrick graduated from Wayne County High School with a scholarship to attend Mercer University’s football program.

Mattie Genaux Photography

Mattie Genaux Photography

face alone. His grandfather was diagnosed with stage four cancer and given a prognosis of three months to live. Patrick silently despaired as his pillar of security was ripped away...again. "I remember thinking that even though I was still a child, I was going to have to grow up because after [grandpa] died, I was going to be on my own," he said. "It was hard...I was lost. He was the last of the hope that I had for myself—and I felt like that just got taken away from me."

After Robert’s death, Patrick fell back into a state of insecurity, taking refuge wherever he could—a leaf in the wind. After trying to live in another unstable family environment, Patrick was homeless at age 13, a year after losing the love and refuge his grandfather had provided. And again as a freshman in high school, a person he was living with asked him to leave. "So now I was really homeless," he said, and remembered thinking, "This isn't where I'm supposed to be."

that when God wants to move, He doesn't care who He uses. It was important to us to just follow His voice and be what Pat needed.”

“The three of us went into this family business blind. We knew we were committed to making this a family. Like any family, it has blessings and challenges. Our goal has been just to show Pat that we love him and that we believe he can do anything that he commits himself to.”

- PHILIP DELEGAL

Patrick leaned into God and his faith and began attending church at Turning Point in Jesup, where he met Kristina and Philip DeLeGal. From the beginning, Philip and Kristina welcomed Patrick with open arms. Their love is one of the great forces that altered the perception of the world for Patrick, whom they eventually adopted.

At a certain point, Patrick approached Philip and Kristina and explained his situation. He said he had nowhere to go and was considering leaving Jesup. “Without a moment’s hesitation,” Philip and Kristina said that Patrick was welcome to live with them. “At the time, I thought they were kidding,” he said. “I thought, ‘there’s no way you’re going to just open your home up to me,’ but they were serious.” So, Patrick moved in with Philip and Kristina and he said, “it just felt like home.”

A common experience among children and teenagers who have experienced traumatic loss is a lack of trust and sense of belonging, and it was difficult for Patrick to trust that the DeLeGal’s would accept him for who he was. "Church really brought us closer together," said Patrick, who learned how to strengthen his trust through God. “At 27 years old,” said Kristina, “Philip and I both had no idea what we were doing. We had never been parents before but we also knew

Philip and Kristina also created a culture of transparency with Patrick, where all questions were allowed. “I felt like this was the place that I was meant to be—I felt like this was home,” Patrick said. “They gave me the hope that I had lost because for a while I was angry, I was mad at the world, and they were able to fill the void that was missing—the ‘mom' and 'dad' that I was missing." Philip and Kristina showed Patrick what love means through their actions, not just their words.

"A year later, the DeLeGal’s broached the topic of adoption. Philip and Kristina assured Patrick that he was a member of their family and they were there for him, no matter what. He was nervous and happy all at once and thought, "wow, is this really happening?", and knew this was the family he had been longing for.

In the coming weeks, Kristina and Philip talked it over with their immediate family and other leaders of their faith. Soon after, "G Sue," Philip’s mother and Patrick’s now grandmother, Susan DeLeGal, put them in touch with attorney Crissy Boyles to begin the paperwork.

On March 17, 2017 (St. Patrick's Day), the official documents were signed and Philip and Kristina became Patrick's legal guardians, and the day was officially changed within the DeLeGal family to “Patrick’s Day,” which they celebrate each year."

“Once I had that stability in the home, I was

ABOVE:

Delegals - Philip and Kristina DeLeGal showed Patrick what love means through their actions, not just their words, including welcoming him into their lives with open arms and legally adopting him one year later. Photo by Mattie Genaux Photography

- PATRICK ROGERS-DELEGAL

“ When I was a kid, it didn’t make a whole lot of sense but when I was down on my knees, praying to God because I had nothing left and nothing left to lose, I understood that God was there and was the only one I could turn to. So I would cry out to God when I had nothing else.”

really able to focus on succeeding at other things, like football and student council,” Patrick said. “My parents supported me with all of that. They took me to football camp all the way in Louisiana, they worked with me, and they believed in me.” Patrick later added DeLeGal to his name, which was a big decision for him. "When Pat asked me for permission, then for my help to change his name legally, I knew by what he had taught me about fight and determination, that he was fulling deserving of the addition of 'DeLeGal' to his name."

Flash forward to Patrick’s senior year of high school at Wayne County High School, where he was Student Council Vice President of School Spirit and a star defensive end on the football team. "I wasn't really able to focus and excel at these things before Philip and Kristina provided a stable environment for me," Patrick said. "Before that time, I struggled a lot with anxiety--now, football isn't just a sport I play, it's where I turn to relieve my stress, it's my passion, it's what I love. Football helped me rebuild my trust in other people. There are so many races, so many backgrounds—it inspired me to understand that we’re all fighting for the same goal. It’s helped me be able to express who I am as a person.”

Patrick was also a member of Future Educators of Georgia and has an interest in becoming an educator. "School is a big part of a child's life," he said, "and teachers can have such a major impact on who they become, like one of my teachers, Becky Scott. I still remember her faith in me to this day." One of his career goals includes opening up an academy to educate and mentor students in underserved communities, giving back the valuable lessons he learned about perseverance and overcoming adversity.

Patrick was accepted to Mercer University after graduating from high school and with that came a new set of challenges. When it was time to leave for college, Patrick had to confront feelings of guilt and anxiety over leaving his loved ones behind while also experiencing the joy and excitement over the future he had worked so hard to build. It was an emotional and sometimes confusing transition into college life, one that many students face but are unable to express or navigate through without support. "There were

times it was difficult not to get discouraged," he said, especially when transitioning from a star football player in high school to being back at the bottom of the totem pole in college. Fortunately, Patrick had a track record of reframing his adversities as opportunities for growth. “I’ve learned not to hold negativity inside. I put my focus on what I want to achieve instead.”

Many people struggle to manage the adversity they face in life and feel unable to reach out to a supportive person during hard times. Patrick spoke out about losing friend and teammate Spencer Pearce to gun violence only months ago. “He was a good friend and a sweet kid,” he said. “I loved him not only as a teammate but as a brother.” The two friends played football together at WCHS and were headed to play college football, Patrick at Mercer University and Spencer at a university in California. “It hurts me to think that he was only 19,” Patrick said. “He had so much more to live, to do, to see—and that was taken away from him-and I wondered what I could have done to change the outcome.”

Patrick expressed regret over the loss of another life as well. An article was written about him as a senior at WCHS, where he revealed some of the struggles he had faced growing up and how he had overcome that adversity to receive a scholarship to play football at Mercer. Patrick said that the day before the article was published, a student at WCHS had committed suicide. He wondered if he had spoken out sooner in either of these instances, if it would have made a difference. There had been moments in his life where he too felt like there was no one he could turn to. “But I learned that there is always someone you can turn to,” he said. “There is always someone there to help, willing to help, just don’t give up. That pain you’re going through right now isn’t going to last forever. So keep fighting until you get to where you really want to be." He recalled that, in the article he said, "there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. There's always going to be light. The sun is going to shine whether it rains or not. So, hold on to that little bit of hope, that one ray of sunshine.”

Patrick said his Christian values contribute a lot to his ability to hold on to hope when the storm clouds start to roll in. “My grandfather made sure that we went to church every Sunday and I was raised in the Baptist church before I went to Turning Point,” he said. “When I was a kid, it didn’t make a whole lot of sense but when I was down on my knees, praying to

God because I had nothing left and nothing left to lose, I understood that God was there and was the only one I could turn to. So I would cry out to God when I had nothing else.” He said that his decision to go to Turning Point was a sign from God. “I did what He said, and all these really good things started happening in my life.”

Patrick’s story is heroic because he evolved, not in spite of his circumstances, but because of them. He drew love from heartbreak, compassion from shame, and honor from failure. To quote Michael Oher's character from the 2009 film The Blind Side, "Courage is a hard thing to figure. You can have courage based on a dumb idea or mistake, but you’re not supposed to question adults, or coach, or your teacher because they make the rules. Maybe they know best but maybe they don’t...that’s why courage it’s tricky. Should you always do what others tell you to do? Sometimes you might not even know why you’re doing something. I mean any fool can have courage. But honor, that’s the real reason you either do some-

thing or you don’t. It’s who you are and maybe who you want to be...you should hope for courage and try for honor. And maybe even pray that the people telling you what to do have some, too.”

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' -- I just want anybody who may be struggling to know, that all those bad times, all that struggle that they're going through, it's there, not to hurt you, but to help you, because you learn from each of those experiences. And from what you experience, you’re able to help the next person. You can say to them, ‘I remember when I was there,’ and then help them to overcome what you did, because God made you that promise.”

Patrick is currently a student and athlete at Mercer University where he plays defensive tackle for the Mercer Bears. His mom, Kristina, is a teacher at Screven Elementary School and his dad, Philip, works at Rayonier Advanced Materials in Jesup. WM

ABOVE: “Football isn't just a sport I play, it's where I turn to relieve my stress, it's my passion, it's what I love. Football helped me rebuild my trust in other people,” said Patrick. Pictured here with Brandon Herndon, Kristina, Gary Frye, Philip, Halie Frye, Drew Garbutt, Keeley Herndon, Cassie Herndon, Susan DeLeGal, and Mary Frye.

your Feet in Great Hands!"

Since 1998, our practice has been working to provide a shared vision of uncompromising excellence in podiatric care. The physicians and staff of Ankle & Foot Associates are dedicated to using the latest research and most advanced technology to deliver exceptional foot and ankle care to people throughout southern Georgia and adjacent areas. Our services, whether preventive care or corrective surgery, has earned the practice excellent recognition and steady growth for the past decade.

At Ankle & Foot Associates, we believe that a doctor and patient become a team for treating an individual's feet. Our physicians spend most of their time listening in order to understand your concerns and responding with the best treatment options for you. With the help of our professional staff, they also follow up to make sure that pain is relieved, problems are resolved, and your health improves. We also want our patients to be informed about foot and ankle problems and treatments because informed patients, make better decisions about their health and well-being.

Dr. Danielle McKenna

Active, & Natural

Story by CANDEE HARRIS

happy

Did you know – Wayne County has a thriving global manufacturing presence that consistently provides well-paying jobs and great benefits for our community’s workforce?

One of these is Healthy Pet®, formerly Absorption Corp. Founded in 1985 in Ferndale, Washington, Absorption Corp. produced absorbent fiber products from leftover materials provided by area pulp and paper mills. As time progressed, many of the mills began to close due to a lack of availability of materials. During this time, Absorption Corp. was considering the idea of locating a mill on the East Coast because much of their product was being sold here. After considering several locations up and down the coast, they chose Wayne County due to readily available wood pulp products from Rayonier, logistics, and quick, easy access to I-95.

Healthy Pet’s East Coast leadership team is comprised of Scotty Miller, Max Bookhardt, Jimmy Welch and Paul Bratten.

Company owners Doug and Gordon Ellis approached retired Rayonier engineer and international paper and pulp consultant John Swingle about overseeing construction and managing the startup of the plant. Swingle agreed and was the plant’s first employee, beginning work in January 2004. By the end of that same year, the plant was in production mode. He worked full-time until 2007, transitioning to part-time to work on engineering projects as well as enhancing and streamlining operations until he retired in 2012.

One of Swingle’s early hires was Jesup native Jimmy Welch who started his Absorption Corp. career working as a production supervisor - one of only 12 employees at the time. Welch moved up the ranks, working in all departments, learning all aspects of the operation and was named Head of East Coast Manufacturing in 2014. As he talked about the

“The

company [Healthy Pet®] has taken a holistic approach to their pet care products, so the pet’s physical, emotional and ecological well-being are balanced and enhanced”

- TED MISCHAIKOV, CEO

plant, he said one of the many things he appreciates about this company is how it supports Wayne County with good jobs and a great workplace. Another is the company’s hiring policy that favors hiring from within, offering current employees an opportunity to apply for job openings before they are advertised to outside candidates. And like himself, several others have been promoted from production to management over the years. He noted that the majority of their approximately 100 current employees live right here in our community, maximizing the economic impact the company has here in Wayne County.

Throughout Welch’s career with the company, he has watched the evolution of technology, growth and ownership changes. In May 2010, Absorption Corp was purchased by the private equity firm Kinderhook Industries, LLC as a portfolio company for investment purposes. Three years later, Kinderhook sold Absorption Corp. to J. Rettenmaier & Söhne Group (JRS), a family-owned company based in Rosenberg, Germany. JRS was founded in 1878 and is still run by the same family. They are described as “a leading global manufacturer of high-quality organic fibers, made from sustainable plant raw material, for use in a broad range of applications within the pet care, food, nutrition, pharmaceutical, chemical, and construction industries. They produce Europe’s premium natural fiber cat litter, Cats Best®, and the Chipsi® brand of small animal bedding and supply products to customers globally from their 23 facilities in 20 countries throughout the world.”

ABOVE: One of the expansion projects completed in 2019 is this state-of-the art cat litter wood pellet plant.

PHOTO BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEALTHY PET

Healthy Pet’s carefresh® bedding is made from scratch with pillowy soft, ultra absorbent comfyfluff™ designed specifically for small pets and can be purchased in fun designer colors including Blissful Blue.

This acquisition brought about a new era. In early 2014, the company announced its new identity as Healthy Pet®, a name that had already been in use for cat and other small animal products but would now become its corporate brand as well. Ted Mischaikov, CEO, explained, “Since our acquisition by J. Rettenmaier & Söhne, we have defined our strategic course as a highly effective, consumer-oriented pet products company spanning all categories.” He went on to say there would be “a renewed innovation in our core small animal offerings along with entry into the cat category with a line of exceptional natural fiber cat litters. As a platform for pet products, Healthy Pet® will focus the global resources and expertise of JRS to effect significant growth.” The company has taken a holistic approach to their pet care products, so the pet’s physical, emotional and ecological well-being

are balanced and enhanced. This approach is built on three fundamental elements; Active, Happy and Natural. In the January 6, 2014 press release announcing the name change, VP Marketing & Sales Samuel Cohen explained, “Physically healthy pets are active, with the energy and strength to play with their human family members. Emotionally healthy pets are happy, finding fulfillment by practicing natural behaviors. Ecologically healthy pets live in natural, clean habitats and environments. These fundamental elements are expressed in our new logo and illustrate our recognition that human parents desire to provide Wholly IncredibleTM care for their pets.”

In 2015, expansion discussions began with the idea of the wood pellet plant and paper pellet line coming to Jesup. At that time, Okocat raw materials were being processed in Germany and being sent here for packaging. Welch explained, “However, in order to begin producing the products here, Jesup had to increase tonnage levels sold before Germany would commit to spending money to put equipment in.” Once that sales level was achieved, plans started taking shape. And what began as a $9 million project became an $18 million investment with not one, but four capital projects completed including additional square footage and equipment for wood pellet and paper pellet production, an automated packaging system and additional warehouse space. This expansion enabled the company to add approximately 15 great-paying jobs.

With the expansion, the Jesup plant is now producing and packaging 100 percent of its U.S. product

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HEALTHY PET

line - ökocat® wood pellet cat litter, Simply PineTM wood pellet cat litter and Puppy Go PottyTM paper fiber litter. In addition, they produce paper pellets used in medical and research labs and about 70 percent of the company’s CritterCare® and carefresh® small pet bedding – all made from natural, sustainable materials. Products are sold by Wal-Mart, Amazon and a host of other vendors worldwide.

As he talked about the plant’s success, Welch attributed it to their support from JRS and his local leadership team’s commitment to ensure the operation runs at peak performance.

Max Bookhardt, Operations Manager, is a member of the local leadership team and has been with Healthy Pet® for five years. A graduate of Wiregrass Georgia Technical College in Fitzgerald, Georgia, with a diesel mechanic diploma, his technical background, and experience with diesel and industrial mechanics and equipment has served him well. After working several years as an industrial mechanic, then for Walmart Logistics, Bookhardt was hired by Healthy Pet® as a supervisor, then later promoted to operations manager for the new pellet plants. He attributes the success of the company to the positive, supportive culture that is instilled in the employees. “Building a strong relationship with the people I work with is crucial to a successful team. It opens lines of communication, everyone understands my expectations and I understand theirs. Once this is established the ideas begin to flow and the team begins to thrive. This doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s an ongoing process that should never stop.”

Scotty Miller is another member of the leadership trio and has been with Healthy Pet® for four years. He serves as the plant’s warehouse supervisor, managing all incoming and outgoing freight as well as being responsible for inventory control. He worked 26 years for local manufacturer and distributor of home healthcare products, Duro-Med, beginning as a forklift driver and working his way up to the role of general manager before the plant closed in 2014. Miller meshes well with his staff of six striving to constantly create process improvements in the workplace using lean principles. He described his management style as a two-way door and echoed Bookhardt’s philosophy. "I try to keep open lines of communication and encourage employees to buy into what the company wants to accomplish because when they do that, they will make it happen." And they do make it happen, moving as many as 500 pallets of product per day and shipping out another 300 plus pallets per day. Miller is excited about the warehouse expansion project that has just been completed, giving his team nearly 50,000 square feet of state-of-the-art rack storage space for products waiting to go out the door.

The common sentiments that resonated among these leaders were their appreciation for the company they work for and their excitement to be part of this growing global company providing healthy, happy, and natural products to the world and its pets.

To learn more about Healthy Pet’s products, visit their website at https://www.healthy-pet.com. WM

Healthy Pet celebrated the completion of their multi-project expansion on July 26, 2019, with a luncheon and public plant tours. Plant Manager Jimmy Welch and JRS owner Josef Rettenmaier share the honors of cutting the ribbon.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE JESUP PRESS-SENTINEL

Sun Protection

Risks of Unprotected Sun Exposure

Too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer. It is estimated that about 100,350 new melanomas will be diagnosed in the United States in 2020. It is important to check your skin for any suspicious moles or spots and talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you notice changes in your skin such as a new growth, a sore that does not heal, a change in an old growth, or any of the ABCDEs of a melanoma.

‘ABCDE Rule’ of Identifying Suspicious Moles or Spots

• A = Asymmetry (Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?)

• B = Border (Is the border irregular or jagged?)

• C = Color (Is the color uneven?)

• D = Diameter (Is the mole or spot larger that the size of a pea or pencil eraser?)

• E = Evolving (Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?)

Skin cancer risk for each person is affected by several factors. An important and preventable one is unprotected sun exposure. Because the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes, anyone who spends time outdoors should use a sunscreen.

Sunscreen

All skin types and tones including fair, medium, and dark skin need protection from UV rays. Men, women, and children are all susceptible to skin damage caused by tanning or burning. Using broadspectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days, can help to protect your skin from the sun. Even if you don’t burn easily, wearing sunscreen is still vital. Sunburn is an immediate reaction, but sun damage occurs over a lifetime. Most sun damage occurs during the first 18 years of life. By the time children turn 18, they have had lots of sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen sets a wonderful example for your children. Make sun protection a priority!

SPF (sun protection factor) is a measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from ultraviolet (UV) B rays. Sunscreens are assigned a sun protection factor (SPF) that rates their effectiveness. Higher SPF indicates more protection. You should use a broadspectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15. Because sunscreen wears off, you should reapply if you stay out in the sun for more than two hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Benefits of Sunscreen

• Shields skin from harmful UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning) rays. Sunburns can be unpleasant and painful.

• Decreases your risk of deadly skin cancer Using sunscreen daily, even when it is cloudy

or raining, decreases your risk of developing skin cancer, especially melanoma.

• Keeps you looking youthful. The number one cause of premature aging of the face is UV exposure. When you wear sunscreen, you prevent and/or slow down the aging process, including the development of wrinkles and leathery skin.

• Keeps your skin tone even. Prevents and minimizes hyperpigmentation (brown spots) and skin discoloration.

Magnolia Grove Medical Spa

Taking care of your skin, the largest organ of the human body, should be a priority of self-care. Prevention of sun damage requires sun protection with regular use of sunscreen. Addressing the effects of sun-damage requires a proper home skin care regimen and in office aesthetic treatments. Advanced chemical peels, microdermabrasion, DermaFrac, IPL, Erbium laser skin resurfacing, Botox, and fillers are among the treatment options available at Magnolia Grove Medical Spa. Dr. Pham and her team of licensed aestheticians are dedicated to providing high quality aesthetic services that deliver results in a caring and relaxing hometown environment. Consultations with our licensed aestheticians and board-certified physician are always available.

Contributors:

Shuntelle Mason - Licensed Aesthetician, Master Cosmetologist, & Cosmetology Instructor

Kandace Rembert - Licensed Aesthetician & Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner

Quynhanh Pham, MD, MBA, FACS - Board-certified General Surgeon & Medical Director

by Faith Living

Story by CANDEE HARRIS | Photography provided by THE FAMILY

MATT AND DEENA BENNETT FIRST MET ON LABOR DAY WEEKEND of 1997, on a sandbar formed by the mighty Altamaha River. Deena Crosby grew up in neighboring Pierce County but loved hanging out with friends here in Wayne. After high school, she attended Georgia Southern University, graduating in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, then moving to Marietta to work as a marketing director for a family-owned business. Matt Bennett was born and raised Wayne County proud, leaving to attend South Georgia College in Douglas to play baseball in August ’95 and

THEIRS IS A STORY FOR THE AGES. A LOVE STORY THAT HAS OVERCOME “FOR WORSE” TO RELISH IN “ FOR BETTER.”

After beating all odds, the Bennetts (Deena, Matt, and Faith) are living the life they always dreamed of.

transferring to Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta in August of ’97. Ironically, just as Matt was getting ready to head to Marietta, Deena had already committed to move back home to Blackshear. Upon meeting, they hit it off immediately, and despite the distance, began a long-distance relationship for the next three years while Matt earned his degree in civil engineering. In June 2000, with

ABOVE: Matt and Deena Bennett were married Feb, 17, 2001 and their faith in God has held them together through thick and thin.

ABOVE: After being prematurely-born and spending two months in the hospital, Faith came home on March 22, 2010.

graduation in sight, he proposed to Deena – in the same spot where they had their very first kiss - and she ecstatically accepted. He landed a job with the Georgia Department of Transportation just days after graduation, moved back to Jesup, and they began planning their wedding.

February 17, 2001, was the big day. Excitement was in the air, but before the ceremony, Deena began to feel bad. Not to be deterred, they pushed through the ceremony. And it was definitely one to remember. Unfortunately, one of the most prominent memories was Deena fainting during the ceremony. Although they laugh about it now, it was quite scary at the time. Happily, life began looking up after that. At least for a while.

Fast forward to the fall of that same year. Matt had a run of bad luck, first breaking his wrist playing flag football in October; a month later rupturing his spleen and nearly dying from a flag football injury. Once past that, they looked to 2002, hoping for a better year. But in January, Matt was involved in a four-wheeler accident, injuring his leg and requiring surgery. So, what’s that saying? Bad things happen in threes? Well, that’s not always the case.

Just two months later, Deena was diagnosed with cervical cancer, at 27 years old. Along with the shock of the diagnosis, Deena could not help but think about how this would impact her dream to be a mama. Hysterically in shock, Deena made the statement to Matt, “I can never have our children!” At that moment, Matt asked her, “If you have to spend the rest of your life with only me, will that be okay?” Her answer was,

“of course!” Matt comforted her by telling her “the world can fall apart around us, as long as it falls apart around US together.”

So, in an effort to find the silver lining in the dark cloud that overshadowed them, she and Matt decided to have her eggs harvested for future use by a gestational carrier. Not the dream they had imagined, but a practical solution to find some good in this nightmare they couldn’t seem to wake up from. Both raised in Christian homes, they leaned on God, taking comfort in a well-known Bible verse, Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With this pronouncement and prayers from friends and family, Deena started eight weeks of radiation and chemotherapy in April, coming close to death once in May. But they continued to hold on to their faith, and she proved she was the survivor her family knew her to be. By July 2002, she completed the therapy and underwent a hysterectomy to ensure she remained cancer-free. “Now,” they thought, “we can start celebrating!” But deep down, Deena was still grieving. While beyond thankful for her journey’s outcome, she still wanted to be a mama, knowing that was no longer possible in the traditional way she had always imagined. And, unknown to them at the time, Deena’s health would take another turn for the worse in mere months.

The radical effects of her radiation treatments took a big toll on Deena’s body. In February 2003, her colon ruptured, requiring a colon resection that once again nearly took her life. She said, “I’ll never forget hearing the doctor tell me to get my affairs in order.” But she wasn’t ready or willing to go anywhere! She knew in her heart that God was not done with her yet. And she recovered, proving the doctors wrong once again. With that crisis now a memory, Deena’s single-minded focus was back to achieving her life’s dream of becoming the mama that she’d always

wanted to be. Every decision she made was based on the recurring thought, “What if today is the day God blesses us with a baby?”

They rang in 2004 with conversation on how to go about finding a gestational carrier to carry the frozen unfertilized egg that would hopefully be baby Bennett. Deena’s mom, Brenda Crosby, lovingly volunteered. NBC’s Today Show heard about the story and wanted to follow it because Deena, as a cancer survivor, and Matt would be the first couple to have a biological child born from a frozen, unfertilized egg. But they soon saw that wasn’t God’s plan. Mrs. Brenda had medical issues and the decision was made to halt the process.

Deena and Matt then began talking about an international adoption. Meanwhile, several other women came forward to unselfishly offer to carry a baby for them, but none felt right. “Given the strong desire we had to become parents and having several offers to be a gestational carrier for us, it was extremely difficult to say no. However, we were committed to following God’s plan for opening doors rather than us kicking down doors,” recalled Deena. So, the adoption conversation came up again. They agreed they would be open to a domestic adoption, but it had to be closed. They wanted no contact with the family of the baby for protective reasons. This new journey brought many, many heartaches along the way, but they continued to trust in God, knowing He had a plan for them. And this time, Romans 8:28 was their comfort when disappointments would bring them down. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”

It’s interesting to watch how life takes us down roads we never imagined. How people come into our lives to fill a void in an unexpected way. How they become family we never before knew. And in this God-inspired story, a surprise was in store for the Bennett family. In 2008, Deena and Matt began talking about participating in the high school’s exchange program, hosting an international student for a year. Not the baby they were hoping for, but a unique opportunity to become a second family for a child with a dream to expand their education and life experiences. The Bennetts welcomed Paula Mozzini from Porto Allegre, Brazil in August of that year, and she attended Wayne County High School as a junior. All too quickly, the year passed, and Paula returned to Brazil to finish school and graduate. But the connection had been

made, and Deena and Matt have remained close to Paula and her family in Brazil. In fact, Paula returned to attend college in Brunswick for a year before graduating in Brazil. However, despite that relationship, the void of not having a child of their own remained in their hearts.

One Sunday afternoon in October 2009, Deena was having a pity party because it seemed that everyone around her was getting pregnant. Though she was happy for them, she couldn’t help but be upset that it wasn’t her. She asked Matt, “am I wrong for feeling this way?” He told her yes and proceeded to ask her if she had even considered that GOD’s plan may not be for them to be parents. Deena thought this was the most absurd thing she had ever heard and replied, “ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!” Matt replied, “What if GOD is waiting on us to be content with only each other and HIM before HE blesses us with a baby?” Deena was not even remotely there emotionally and didn’t want to get there. For the next 17 days, she prayed the same prayer to God that sounded something like, “God, I don’t really want to be praying this and You know

RIGHT: Baby Girl Faith’s first Christmas.

LEFT: Matt and Deena first saw their “Baby Girl,” on Valentine’s Day, 2010.

it. You know my heart and my desire to be a mama. Apparently, I need to be content with how things are, so go for it and make me content.” Deena continues, “I prayed with that attitude for 17 days. I had no desire or intention of changing the way I felt. Then, on the 18th day, I woke up and felt like the weight of the world had been lifted from my shoulders. It was a peace I had not felt for a long time. I remember telling Matt that I was finally there! It was all going to be ok.”

January 2010 rolled around and a friend of Deena and Matt’s asked them to pray for a pregnant lady whose water had broken at 24 weeks – much too early to deliver a healthy baby. They were told it was very uncertain whether the baby could survive such a premature birth. But she did survive, born two weeks later weighing, as Deena recalls, “a whopping two pounds.” Several hours after delivery, the baby’s birth mother left the hospital and disappeared without a word, and her sister was granted medical guardianship. Matt knew the family and expressed to Deena his willingness to adopt this baby if she felt led in the same way. This willingness was a GOD thing for sure, because years earlier Matt had been adamant about not wanting any connection to the birth family. They met with the sister who held the guardianship at the end of January, and she agreed to let them visit the baby as soon as possible.

“What if GOD is waiting on us to be content with only each other and HIM before HE blesses us with a baby?”

- MATT BENNETT

On Valentine’s Day, the Bennetts met the very tiny bundle of joy whom they called “Baby Girl.” She was then three weeks old, now weighing 2 pounds, 4 ounces. They couldn’t stop smiling as they talked about that visit and described “the most beautiful baby they had ever seen!” Matt recalled, “It had to be God filling the void we had felt in our hearts on Valentine’s Day of all days!” Deena added, “As soon as I saw her and touched her, I knew she was ours. I understood the reason for all the heartaches and disappointments we’d faced the past eight years”. Over the next five weeks, the couple made numerous trips to Savannah each week to visit Baby Girl in the hospital as she continued to get stronger. On March 22, Matt and Deena were able to bring her home from the hospital. In early April, the birth mother was located and agreed to relinquish her rights so they could move forward with the adoption. The named birth father’s rights were terminated through the proper legal channels as well. The adoption process was finalized on July 14, 2010, and Baby Girl was now officially a Bennett. They knew her name was to be Faith, for that was what had carried them through this journey. Matt and Deena finally became the parents that God had been preparing them to be. His timing is always perfect!

The last 10 years have been a happy whirlwind for the family. They absolutely love the chaos of every day that is church, work, school, activities, vacation, and family time. Faith has absolutely no evidence of having been born premature. She is an incredibly smart, quick-witted and loving 10-year-old who has been taught that after God, family is everything. Deena and Matt chose to tell Faith about her adoption from the beginning with age-appropriate answers. She fully understands how special she is to her family, and she loves hearing the story of how she was chosen by God for her parents. She says, “I’m so glad God chose them to be my Mama and Daddy. They are the best parents ever!” Matt and Deena have explained to Faith that God allowed her to grow in their hearts instead of in her Mama’s tummy and that their story is much like the adoption of believers into the family of God. “We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19. WM

ABOVE:

The Bennetts traveled to Brazil last Christmas to visit their "other" daughter, former exchange student and friend Paula Mozzini.

Faith Bennett with her furry friend, Maley.

Home & Garden

Featuring inspiring homes, design ideas, and tips you can use to make your home and garden even more beautiful!

Photo of the front of Peggy and Jiggs Riggins home featured in this section.

Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

HomeStory

IS WHERE OUR BEGINS

THE DECORATING ADVICE OFFERED by noted interior designer and television personality Nate Berkus, is nowhere more beautifully manifested that in the home of Peggy and Jiggs Riggins on Old Waynesville Road in Jesup. To tour the home is as much a family history and museum visit as it is an architectural and design achievement. Most pieces of furniture or adornment have their own history, and the rare family heirlooms directly link five generations together.

Peggy Harper Riggins, daughter of James and Frances Hurn Harper, spent her formative years in the home, built by her father, owner of Harper Industries, and a successful local businessman and entrepreneur. In spite of his successes, Harper, a child during the depression, did not believe in ostentation or lavish spending, or waste. Peggy remembers, “I think he held on to every nut, bolt, pen or paper clip he ever had. To him, there was no sense in throwing something away that might be useful later!”

Story by MELBA BENNETT MURPHY | Photos by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

“Your

home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love brought together under one roof.”

– NATE BERKUS

In 1959, the Harpers employed architect John Huff of Waycross to draw plans for their Florida style ranch home on Old Waynesville Road. Huff also drew the plans for the Pascal home presently owned by Christine Cutcliffe on the corner of Magnolia and Hickory Street, very similar in layout to the Harper Home. Peede and Bramblett, local cabinet makers who did not ordinarily build houses, built the house in a year's time and the family moved in 1960, not long before Peggy turned 9. The Harpers hired a Savannah interior decorator, Audrey Goldsmith, and Peggy remembers her father keeping a close eye on spending. True to his "waste-not, want-not" attitude, the Harpers did not update the house until 1979, almost 20 years later, when they found a distant cousin who was an interior designer in Atlanta.

Peggy reflects on the differences in her parents' attitude towards aesthetics and decorating. "Daddy was so practical that aesthetics did not matter. All that mattered to him was that whatever they needed to survive was workable! He was a minimalist long before the term was coined! He liked long expanses of clean counters. Mama was the opposite. She would pick up any cute, little knick-knacks and place them all over the house. She loved decorating but her idea of decorating was more kitsch than chic. When Dollar Tree made its debut, it was almost the ruin of her! Her Christmas decorations for years involved tying red yarn on every drawer and cabinet pull in the kitchen and hanging breakable gold Christmas balls in about 10 straight rows across the massively wide draperies in the family room and game room!" Home

PEGGY HARPER RIGGINS, DAUGHTER OF JAMES AND FRANCES HURN HARPER, SPENT HER FORMATIVE YEARS IN THE HOME BUILT BY HER FATHER, OWNER OF HARPER INDUSTRIES, AND A SUCCESSFUL LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND ENTREPRENEUR.

ABOVE: In the formal living room, the coffee table and credenza were original to the house in 1960. The Harpers purchased the antique secretary, of English origin, during the 1979 remodeling. The living room sofa purchased at the same time was reupholstered and left in place. The current coffee table was original to the house in 1960, but had been replaced by a glass top table in 1979, the base of which is now being reused on the patio. The oversized mirror at one end was originally in Peggy’s childhood bedroom but was incorporated into the living room to give the room added depth.

A Look Back

In 2003, Peggy retired as a teacher and counselor at Wayne County High School and about that same time her mother became bedridden. Without Frances’ attention, the house was again showing some wear with large black sun-damage spots on the linoleum, dirty white carpet in the bedrooms, and almost 50-year-old turquoise Formica kitchen countertops flecked with chips and burns. James was content as long as he had a working stove and refrigerator, a recliner, a TV to watch news and sports, and a bed to sleep in. James, widowed since 2007, was in declining health by 2013. Peggy, who lived with Jiggs across the street, began spending more time at the Harper house to keep an eye on her father. She made good use of the time by beginning the mammoth task of reducing her mother’s sentimental memorabilia, the most daunting being how to effectively repurpose around 2,000 Life, Look, Better Homes and Garden, and other contemporary magazines from the 1940s through the 1990s.

After Peggy’s father died in March of 2013, the Riggins began earnest preparation to remodel and then move into her childhood home. Peggy explains their

The family room as it appeared originally. Above right is the family room today.

ABOVE: In 1979 the Harpers’ decorator found an extremely expensive piece of furniture in Atlanta to place in the loggia. Mr. Harper promptly nixed such extravagance. “Why, I bet I could get Peede and Bramblett (local cabinet makers) to build the same thing,” he pronounced, and he did just that.

thought process: "Jiggs and I began this as a mutual labor of love. He and I started 'going steady' in the summer of 1964, before he entered the 9th grade and I, the 8th." As a result of this long and continuous courtship, Jiggs adds that, "I spent my formative years in this house with the Harpers and, as my second-home, had as much sentimental attachment to it as Peggy."

The shared dream in the renovating and remodeling was to pay homage to the original house of the Harpers, while updating it enough to bring warmth and comfort to the Riggins and a happy place to entertain family and friends. Peggy admits, "We knew what our vision was, but we were not sure how to execute it."

A chance conversation with Deidra Odum, owner of Designs by Deidra, led to Odum’s tour of the home and

Peggy’s sharing her mental picture for the remodeled house. Peggy recalls, “Not only did Deidra understand, she began churning out ideas that suggested she could see inside my head!” Peggy related a desire to incorporate the colors her mother had originally used in the 60s—variations of aquas, corals, and neutrals. Deidra found a drapery fabric that utilized that color scheme for practically the entire house. Thus began a smooth collaboration between the Riggins and Odum, although Peggy laughingly suggests, "knowing my indecisiveness and tendency to agonize over every option, I am sure I stretched Deidra's patience to the limit."

The Riggins mastered another hurdle when they secured Phillip Stanfield as the general contractor. Phillip had former connections with Mr. Harper, who had helped Philip grow his construction business on St Simons and Sea Island. Phillip's son, "Fireball," took over the project after Phillip had experienced some health issue.

James Harper would no doubt be pleased with the aggressive attempt to reuse, repurpose, and recycle his

ABOVE: The den now boasts a more open floor plan to the kitchen and other updates. However, the breakfast table was originally used in the dining room and the two swivel chairs are also original to the house.

ABOVE: The biggest structural change came with an idea that Peggy had to take down some of the kitchen cabinets to open up the kitchen and family room and to raise the bar dividing the two rooms so that it could be used as a buffet. The openness between the kitchen and family room facilitates a smooth flow for guests when the Riggins entertain. The bar stools were purchased by her parents.

RIGHT: The Riggins use the glass table that James and Frances bought in 1979 with the china cabinet they brought from their previous house in the formal dining room. The chandelier was original to the house, but was moved to the Riggins’ home across the street in 1979 when the Harpers replaced it with a white china chandelier. That white chandelier now adds lighting to the loggia. The antique marble-top table was a gift from Jiggs' mother, Joan Riggins.

home’s original furnishing. In a third bedroom, guests will find the Harpers’ original bedroom furniture that they brought from their house at 411 East Orange Street. The guest bath next to that bedroom still has the original yellow tile, toilet and a tub featuring sliding glass doors with an etched fish scene. Such etching was popular in the1960s..

Repurposing furniture meant that very little new furniture was bought--essentially, a master bed and side tables, a sofa, end tables, and recliner for the family den. Peggy remarked that, "We recovered and reused almost all the chairs that were in the house in 1960. They are still, 60 years later, very serviceable. Our "new" couch and recliner, however, are showing wear and tear." In that same family room, the Riggins use the house's original bar stools and eat meals on the table and chairs that were bought new in 1960 for the Harpers' dining room.

The love story that would become the 7-year courtship and 49-year marriage of Peggy and Jiggs was incubated in what was then called the “game room” or what the family now calls the “media room." For a while, however, it served as an old-fashioned "courting parlor." In it now is the sectional sofa originally in the formal living room as well as the original game table and six chairs. The original paneling that

In the master bedroom, the Riggins used her parents' original dresser but complemented it with a new handmade, upholstered bed and two new mirrored end tables. The colors in the bedroom and bath were almost exactly the same as the colors that were used in 1979. The storage in Mrs. Harper's dressing room was rebuilt, but Jiggs kept Mr. Harper's dressing room intact with just some minor cosmetic changes. On Peggy's dressing table, as a base for perfumes and knickknacks, sits a gold filigree frame that was her mother's, and the frame contains Frances' dressing room wallpaper that matches the current colors. The chairs are the same ones used by the Harpers and are in the same place when they originally decorated the room.

ABOVE: Office Study The “study” still contains the original wood floors and wall paneling which required only minimal restoration. The wooden desk came out of Peggy’s maternal grandfather’s Gardi general store and the Riggins left it just where James Harper used it. The desk chair at Peggy’s computer (not pictured), Jiggs remembers, was in the current Jesup Tire Shop building when his dad, Jimmy Riggins, bought it in 1967. Their welder had used it to sit out in the bays and consequently it was covered in grease and dirt. Mrs. Dot Kenerly refurbished it.

covered the family room, loggia, and game room is still utilized in the media room, while the paneling in the loggia was painted over, and the family room was sheetrocked.

In this media room was perhaps the most creative recycling of memorabilia. Deidra suggested that a wallpaper enhance the small wall by the wet bar, but nothing seemed suitable until Peggy had a brainstorm to use the languishing and remaining Life magazine covers as wallpaper. The Riggins picked their favorite 46 covers, and ironically discovered later that their dates spanned from 1960-1971, the years from when

The Boys’ (Grandsons Riggs and Rhett) Bedroom’s bath: Used primarily by grandsons Riggs and Rhett Ammons, the sink and toilet were from Mr. Harper’s bathroom. To make it serviceable, the Riggins had to get spare parts from a website called “This Old Toilet.”

BOTTOM: Guest Half-Bathroom When the Harpers lived in the house, the walls were covered with white Formica with gold flecks. The black and white floor tile is a new version very similar to the original. The painting, done in 1979 by Margie Bland, hangs in its same place. Not visible from the photo is a storage closet converted from a shower, featuring the original shower door etched with a chaste silhouette of a nude bather, which Peggy says “drew a lot of snickers from my guy friends in the 1960s.”

TOP:

ABOVE: The game room is much the same as it was in 1979 with the addition of the house's conversation piece, the wall of LIFE Magazines repurposed from the Harpers’ magazines. The idea was conceived by Peggy Riggins and executed with the help of wallpaper expert Randy Dobson and printer Bill Murphy. The sofa, moved from the living room in the 1979 redo, was recovered.

*

A Look Back

the Harpers moved in until Peggy left home to marry Jiggs. Sentimentality was also exhibited with a frame, custom-built by Fireball, which held some of the couple's favorite album covers from their dating years. Peggy surprised Jiggs with it as an anniversary present the night they moved in--July 7--their dating and marriage anniversary.

After 60 years and two facelifts, the stylish home is as contemporary, beautiful, and serviceable as it

RIGHT: Jiggs Riggins, Frances Harper, Jodi Riggins Ammons, James Harper, Peggy Harper Riggins in the foyer for the Harpers’ 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Mrs. Mary (George) Parish and Mrs. Hazel (Richard) Littlefield, James Harper's sister, during the Tour of Homes in 1962.

"JIGGS

AND I ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE A TREASURE TROVE OF FAMILY MEMORABILIA ALREADY PRESERVED FOR US AND A SCOPE OF TALENTED PEOPLE TO HELP HONOR OUR FAMILY’S HERITAGE, BUT ANY OF US CAN FIND WAYS TO PRESERVE THE PAST AND TELL OUR FAMILIES’ STORIES. IT IS AN OBLIGATION WE HOLD TO THOSE WHO COME BEFORE US AND THOSE WHO COME AFTER."

- PEGGY HARPER RIGGINS

Rhett, Steve, and Riggs Ammons enjoy playing pool on the original billiards table in the outdoor pool room. The light above the table was built by Jimmy Stanfield from Peggy’s ideas. She said, “I was thinking R&R could stand for Riggins and Riggins, Riggs and Rhett, or Rest and Relaxation.”

was when Peggy first moved in in 1960. During the last renovation, the Riggins, with the help of Deidra Odum and Fireball Stanfield, represented Peggy’s parents' personalities as they recycled, repurposed, and reused family furniture, decorations, and keepsakes.

Wistfully Peggy shared, "We spent our first night in our 'new' old home July 7, 2014...50 years from the day that Jiggs asked me to "go steady" and kissed me in the hallway." Today, with their daughter and son-in-law, Jodi and Steve Ammons, and grandsons Riggs (17) and Rhett (14), the Riggins are eating lunch at their parents’ table, inviting friends over to enjoy the backyard pool and cook area, and decorating the Christmas tree in the media room. As the song says, "Everything Old Is New Again" and the house is a quasi-classroom where the youngest generation can learn about their ancestors and their heritage. Peggy and Jiggs agree that, “We are happy here as we recycle and relive memories while making precious new ones.” WM

* A Look Back

1962 Georgia Tour of Homes

Connie Harper, Gail Dent, Peggy Harper, Jolinda Harper, and Patsy Harper were hostesses for the Tour of Homes. The pool as it appeared in 1962.

The color palette in the fabric ties the home together throughout. It also makes a statement in the den and keeps the space open and vibrant. The chairs, original to the house, were repurposed, but the sofa was new. Both are in simple fabrics with a simple texture that does not compete with the material used for the drapes. The whitewash floors help keep the space open and spacious. The rug's texture and design were chosen so that they did not overpower the scale of the room.

Every Home Should Have a UNIQUE Design

By DEIDRA ODUM, OWNER & INTERIOR DESIGNER, DESIGNS BY DEIDRA

Every home is unique, as are its homeowners. Getting to know the clients I work with is an essential element in creating distinctive designs. The key is listening! What do they like? How do they live in the home? How do they want to feel in their home? The answers to these questions are crucial to pulling together a design the homeowners will be proud of.

In the Riggins home remodel, they wanted to use heirlooms and family keepsakes. One of Peggy's main interests was showcasing some of the family's original furniture.. There were not many structural changes. Instead, the goal was making a statement with furniture that was initially custom-built for the home. Pulling it all together with the placement of key pieces, and choosing a color palette and textures to tie the home together throughout was the fun part.

ABOVE: The lamps are original to the home and complement the coral, blue, and cream colors in the fabric and the peaceful hues of the furniture.

It’s not difficult to take a home full of statement furniture and heirloom accents and tie it together as long as you follow a few guidelines and tips to bring it all together.

Use furniture to make a statement – Always keep in mind the scale of the room. Balance is critical - not enough or too much can throw the room off. And, it’s not just the furniture - the cabinetry must also be considered.

Create a focal point - Choosing one item that has the style and color of a room can tie the room or house together. It can be art, an accent wall piece, or fabric.

Fabric can be an accent – Using fabric to tie together a home/room can be pleasing, calming, and bring joy. Uses include pillows, tablecloths, lampshades, and bed overlays. Small touches can bring pop and excitement.

Showcase your collectibles – Pay attention to size, color, and style. The antiques, heirlooms, or pieces you love do not have to match, but the size of pieces should be to scale of the room. Don't use all of your collectibles in one room, choose unique pieces for key places.

Displaying is key to success - Adding a few new pieces can really make a room pop. Rugs can pull a room together – Don’t overdo it with patterns, though. Using a lot of patterns in other ways may call for a solid or simple rug. Rug texture can also be used to bring a room together. WM

ABOVE: Peggy wanted to use these chairs, and that's where she wanted them, so we chose a fabric that would complement the overall design and feel of the room.

LEFT: The focal point in the room was the fabric. The color scheme and texture of the fabric were intentionally light because it has a significant presence in the room. The design has a bold pattern that left the room open and vibrant.

DESIGNS

BY DEIDRA

Complete Interior Design & Flooring

56 W. Cherry St. – Downtown Jesup Jesup, GA 31545 / 912-588-0144

WILD LIFE HABITAT?

Story by JUNE THOMAS

Do your backyard visitors include rabbits, squirrels, bees, birds, butterflies, toads, frogs, lizards or even deer? Do you provide water and food for these creatures? Do you have nesting facilities for them? Do you enjoy observing them? If you answered, “yes” to all of the above, you are well on the way to achieving Certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat status!!

Well over ten years ago, homeowners began certifying their backyards through a joint project of the Garden Club of Georgia, Inc. and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Even though it is co-sponsored by The Garden Club of Georgia, Garden Club membership is not required to participate. The goal is to encourage all Georgia residents to participate in the easy and important program. Some of the criteria for CWP are:

• attracting birds by planting wildflowers

• ensuring protection of wetlands

• utilizing native trees and shrubs in landscape

• educating the public sector on wildlife needs through nature trails and outdoor

classrooms

• attracting non-game animals to private and public lands by creating nesting islands in brush, rock piles and tree cavities.

There are five areas in which individuals may certify and three others geared towards community or communal certification. The Individual Backyard Certification, Hummingbird Haven, Individual Box Certification, Gardening with Georgia Native Plants, and Creating a Winter Wonderful Wildlife are all for a single-family residence. Neighborhood Backyard Certification, Communal Living Backyard Certification and Community Certification are designed for neighborhood, subdivisions, and communities. Individual Backyard Certification is for

individual residents who provide food, shelter, and water for certain mammals, birds, amphibians, and insects.

“Backyard Wildlife Certified” residents achieve a sense of pride knowing their yard is a sanctuary for wildlife and provides help to the species which are becoming extinct. Once the animals begin to visit, viewing and observing them is a very beneficial and stress relieving activity. Certification is a win-win situation! By caring for and protecting our wildlife through Backyard Habitats, we also create wonderful viewing environments.

For more information about becoming certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat, visit the Department of Natural Resources website georgiawildlife.com. WM

Tips for building a gallery wall

By LINDSEY CORAL HARPER

THE KEY TO A GALLERY WALL IS THE MIX OF IT ALL!

Don't be afraid to hang a variety of pieces together, a variety of subject and frame finishes as well as shapes and sizes.

Mix fine art with fun art, kids art, mirrors, taxidermy and photography.

As far as getting the arrangement right, start with the larger pieces first, then build around them.

If you don't think you can do this yourself, pull out all of your art and call the professionals!

One of the best tricks of the trade to figure out how to place your art on the wall is to place it out on the floor, this way you don't put unnecessary holes in your walls.

1. Measure out your existing wall of where you want to hang your art.

2. Mark off on your floor the same amount of space with the same measurements as the wall.

3. Arrange your art on the floor in front of you and create the spacing and positioning that you like.

4. Jot down your measurements. I think it helps to take a photo with your phone of the arrangement and reproduce it on the wall.

Lindsey Coral Harper’s early life was spent in Jesup before moving to Cartersville, Georgia, with her mother. A graduate of the University of Georgia, she established her own residential design firm in 2007 in New York, NY. Her work has been featured on the cover of House Beautiful, Garden and Gun, and Southern Living. In 2019, she opened Coral, a shop in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, featuring home décor, furniture, art, accessories, and more. Learn more about Lindsey at lchinteriors.com.

ROAR LIVING TO YOUR FULL POTENTIAL

Written by MELISSA MOXLEY

In 1980, the United States Army created the slogan, “Be All You Can Be!” The premise of the highly successful marketing campaign was that the Army could help bring out a recruit’s full capabilities. It was so effective that is was named in the Top 18 Best Business Slogans & Taglines for the last 50 years (www.fitsmallbusiness.com, 6 September 2019). This phrase resonates with the inward struggle that many of us still question today…How do I live out my full potential? The answer may not be so elusive. We must fine tune our roar!

RELIABILITY: If we are to reach our full potential, one of the most basic characteristics that we must possess is being a reliable person. Epictetus once said, “It’s so simple really. If you say you’re going to do something, do it. If you start something, finish it.” Be trustworthy, full of integrity, and truthful. By today’s standards, these are old fashioned principles that are not always celebrated. Politics, Hollywood, or social media should not dictate our fundamental core belief system. To achieve our loftiest goals and greatest dreams, it is imperative that we must first be reliable to those around us.

OPTIMISM: Being an optimistic person does not mean that you live with your head in the clouds, never seeing or acknowledging problems. Instead, it is looking for positive possibilities despite a difficulty. Optimism will cause a person to look for ways to create a good outcome. They become invested in finding an encouraging solution. Often our outlook is based on past experiences, so being optimistic may not come naturally for you. You may have to work at it. But it is possible to increase our optimism and it is to our advantage to do so! According to Psychologist Elizabeth Hopper, optimistic people have increased longevity, better physical and mental health, and get improved sleep quality (healthypsych.com, 14 November 2017). If you want to tap into your full potential, work on being “a glass half full” kind of person.

ATTITUDE: Zig Ziglar is quoted as saying, “It is your attitude, more than your aptitude, that will determine your altitude.” I recently heard someone talking about an attitude indicator (also known as the artificial horizon) on an airplane. This instrument has two major functions: it instructs the pilot on the pitch and roll angles of the aircraft. It also aides his/her visibility in bad weather. A simple description of the attitude indicator is that it tells the operator if the plane’s nose is descending or ascending or if one of the wings are dropping or

rising compared to the horizon ahead. That got me to thinking. Our attitude is often an indicator of the direction that our life is heading. A bad attitude should be our warning to evaluate the horizon (future) ahead. Have we allowed ourselves to get slightly off course? Is our current situation clouding our visibility? Our attitude should showcase strength and courage, while simultaneously reflecting humility and gratitude. Let’s check our attitude indicator and make any corrections needed, so we can accomplish our maximum potential.

RELATIONSHIPS: When you were younger, I am sure that you remember your mother saying, “birds of a feather flock together.” She was trying to teach you the importance of the friends you chose. You are older now, but the lesson is no less true. The people that you allow to be in your inner circle will affect your life for the better or for the worse. You will ultimately become like the people that you spend the most time with…so choose carefully. “Surround yourself with the dreamers and the doers, the believers and thinkers, but most of all, surround yourself with those who see the greatness within you, even when you don’t see it yourself” Edmund Lee. If you desire to live a life driven by purpose and meaning, find people who share your same goals. They will challenge you to become a bigger and better version of yourself.

In order to live out your full potential, you must be trustworthy and reliable. You must teach yourself to conquer obstacles with positive solutions and see the world through optimistic eyes. You need to possess an attitude of fierceness coupled with thankfulness and always surround yourself with people who inspire you to greater and loftier goals. You should always remember to ROAR! WM

Melissa is a psychology graduate of The College of Coastal Georgia. Her first book, For You My Husband, was the 2016 Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year. She works as a freelance writer and volunteers with several community organizations. She resides in Wayne County with her family.

There is an anonymous quote that says, “A farm is more than land and crops. It is a family’s heritage and future.” This is the perfect adage of the life that Craig and Kim Sims have built here in Wayne County. Together the two have raised more than just their daughters, Cara Laine, who is married to Patrick Riley and currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina, and Kenzlee, a nursing student at Georgia Southern University. Depending on the season, their 30-acre family farm will produce everything from pecans, cabbage, straw-

Sims’ Family Farm

Story by MELISSA MOXLEY

berries, oranges, or broccoli, to sweet corn and watermelons. You probably assume that Craig acquired his green thumb at an early age from growing up on a farm himself. However, nothing is further from the truth.

Craig graduated from Georgia College with a Bachelor of Science degree in

Environmental Health. He has worked with the Wayne County Health Department for the last 30 years. His job entails water testing, residential septic tank and local restaurant inspections. That is his daytime job, but farming is his passion. Craig recalls, “I was 21 years old before I ever drove a tractor. I was raised in the

Farming is a labor of love for Craig Sims, but it is also hard work and demands a lot of time and energy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CANDICE MCKINLEY

city. It was Kim’s daddy (Ernest Bill Harris) who got me interested in agriculture in 1991. That was the year that Kim and I got married and moved onto the farm. He owned and operated Harris Real Estate, while also running a cattle and timber business as a hobby. I would help him;

“I was 21 years old before I ever drove a tractor. I was raised in the city. It was Kim’s daddy (Ernest Bill Harris) who got me interested in agriculture.” - CRAIG

that’s where my love for gardening and farming started.”

If you drive by Craig and Kim’s home, you will probably be surprised to find out that he only started planting the first of his various crops nine short years ago. He had begun to think about the future and how he could supplement his retirement. He decided to follow the example of his father-in-law and make the thing he enjoyed into potential income and it has turned out to be a wise investment.

The Sims’ Family Farm began with what is now a yard full of beautiful

ABOVE: Craig and Kim Sims have raised more than just their daughters, Cara Laine, who is married to Patrick Riley and currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina, and Kenzlee, a nursing student at Georgia Southern University.

BELOW: Citrus trees, which are usually grown in Florida, have only recently started being produced in our state. Craig is one of only a handful of farmers currently growing orange trees in Georgia.

pecan trees, followed the next year by a backfield containing 300 Satsuma orange trees. Citrus trees, which are usually grown in Florida, have only recently started being produced in our state. Craig is one of only a handful of farmers currently growing orange trees in Georgia. Also visible is a 72-foot long white tunnel that houses approximately 800 strawberry plants each year. The scene is a perfect backdrop for their beautiful, white, two-story house that is reminiscent of a long-ago era of southern plantations.

Farming is something that Craig says he enjoys, but it is also hard work that demands a lot of time and energy. During the winter months, he spends about 20 hours a week harvesting, pruning, fertilizing, and getting ready for the spring planting season. Warmer weather brings longer daylight hours and more gathering, packing, and delivering to the market. He will often load his truck and take it to buyers in the early morning hours before heading to work. Over the last few years, he has hired a Wayne County High School student that is a

ABOVE: Wayne County is blessed to have an agricultural strength and appreciation that is noticed throughout the state. It is because of the hard work and fortitude of farmers, like Craig Sims, who take experiences of the past, build on them in the present, and then plant them into future generations.

PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE COURTESY OF CANDICE MCKINLEY

member of the Future Farmers of America. John David Lee worked with Craig for several years before heading off to school at Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College. Jeb Brown took his place and is currently filling the position. Craig speaks highly of both these young men and the asset that they have been. While they give him some much-needed help, it also allows the next generation to gain experience and firsthand knowledge of the day to day operations of a small family farm.

The Sims’ Family farm is a nod to the heritage of Ernest Bill Harris. His love for the outdoors and producing agriculture is being continued on the old home place. It is a legacy of hard work, determination and the satisfaction of knowing that they are supplying muchneeded wholesome, organic foods to our communities. Coincidentally, it is also a glimpse into what the future holds. This farm is not only providing for any upcoming financial needs of the Sims'

This farm is not only providing for any upcoming financial needs of the Sims' family, but it is also investing in the lives of the next generation. It has become a teaching tool for young people to understand the importance of farming.

family, but it is also investing in the lives of the next generation. It has become a teaching tool for young people to understand the importance of farming.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, ninety percent of all farms in the U.S. are classified as small, most of which are family-owned and operated. They face enormous challenges but are vital to our natural

resources and the survival of rural

America.

Wayne County is blessed to have an agricultural strength and appreciation that is noticed throughout the state. It is because of the hard work and fortitude of farmers, like Craig Sims, who take experiences of the past, build on them in the present, and then plant them into future generations. WM

ABOVE: Sims Family Farm is home to a 72-foot long white tunnel that houses approximately 800 strawberry plants each year.

BELOW: Rubye Kate and Troy Harris Bland love a ride on the farm and eating eat their Uncle Craig's strawberries.

In 8 years, Solid Rock Christian Academy has expanded to include 95 students in grades PreK-8th grade. In Spring 2020, we will begin construction on our new facility which will include a highschool wing! The support of Wayne County citizens and local businesses is allowing us to begin our #GreaterThings Building Campaign to create educational choice for Wayne and surrounding counties. If you’d like to join us in our mission of promoting academic excellence with a Biblical worldview, growing leaders, and serving the community, call 912-424-8316 or email srcajesup2012@gmail.com to inquire about our Golden Dome Scholarship Program or a general tax deductible donation. This program allows your GA tax dollars to benefit the school of your choice, while still supporting our local public schools! We are currently enrolling students for the 2020-21 school year, with limited availability. Register your student today! For more info, check us out on FB, Youtube, and our website (www.srcajesup.org).

SOLID ROCK CHRISTIAN

P PROFILES

YOUR GUIDE TO WAYNE COUNTY’S PEOPLE, PLACES, AND BUSINESSES

Some may wonder,

“Why would a Certified Paralegal of 10 plus years walk away from her career to become a full-time Fitness Trainer?" For Cassandra (Cassy) Langley, the answer is simple -- ” ...it's definitely A GOD THING.”

Cassandra (Cassy) Langley Owner of Through Christ Fit Personal Training Studio and founder of Run with Purpose 5K in Wayne County

Run With Purpose – It’s a God Thing

Story by ANGEL HARMON

Cassy is the owner of Through Christ Fit Personal Training Studio and founder of Run with Purpose 5K in Wayne County. She and her husband, Joe, a native of Jesup, have been married for 12 years with two children, Carleigh and Leighton. In 2016, Cassy felt that God had placed a vision into her heart to open a health and fitness studio. The studio became a safe space for her to do what she'd been called to do, as she had been working in ministry for about nine years before opening the studio.

"I used to do bodybuilding competitions and I would minister," shared Cassy. "I always wanted to be a competitor for Christ, so that was kind of where I started."

At the time she worked as a paralegal but began working part-time in order to keep her foot in the door, "just in case," she shared. "When you're going into business on your own, it's kind of a scary thing." Within three months of opening the studio, Cassy

left her career to begin working fulltime. "And God has blessed me… I have personal-trained, one-on-one, 40 hours a week minimum since I left the law firm in April 2016."

Before she opened her studio, she trained at Velocity Health and Fitness with Joe and Pam Hightower, whom Cassy had always considered to be a good friend. When Pam was diagnosed with cancer in Fall 2017, Cassy shared that the Lord put it on her heart to organize and lead a 5K race to raise money for Pam. "The Holy Spirit said to me, 'If you don't do it, who will?!," Cassy said.

With chemotherapy and radiation treatment needed, Cassy wanted to raise funds to help pay for it, including travel and other expenses. "I just struggled with that because I thought, 'Where do I begin?'" she said. Cassy immediately began working to raise money from race entries and by asking for sponsorships from Wayne, Liberty and Long County businesses to host the run. "Wayne County has some of the most giving businesses. We have an awesome business community here. We can't do it without them," she expressed.

Pam wasn't the only person that God wanted to bless with this event. By December 2017, Cassy had been "tasked" to bless three more people with the funds raised from the 5K event.

Cassy Langley and Jena Yoder. Jena, a mother of six, was diagnosed with cancer in March, 2018. She is one of two recipients of the proceeds from Run With Purpose this year.

PHOTO BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

"We raised over $10,000 our first year and blessed three cancer fighters," said Cassy. Aside from Pam, "I didn't really know these people. They were just people the Lord put in our path." With a joint-community effort, the first year turned out to be a huge success. By early 2018, Cassy had gotten a report that everyone was cancer-free.

“Pam beat cancer, but it came back that following Spring after the race,” shared Cassy. “It took her life too soon on November 1, 2018.”

This time around, preparing for the annual race had become much harder.

"Exactly one month after she passed we had the race, so it was in honor of her," said Cassy. "It was very sentimental. She was laying the foundation for other people and I didn't know that at the time."

When Cassy stepped up to the starting line at Jaycee Stadium for the second annual 5K, she did so with a vision of a higher purpose. "We call it 'Run with Purpose' because we're exerting our energy for [others'] healing," shared Cassy. "When people are running, they're

When Pam was diagnosed with cancer in Fall 2017, Cassy shared that the Lord put it on her heart to organize and lead a 5K race to raise money for Pam. "The Holy Spirit said to me, 'If you don't do it, who will?!"

LEFT: Cassy Langley, husband, Joe, and their children, Carleigh and Leighton.

ABOVE: Holly O’Quinn accepts a check from Cassy Langley on behalf of Pam Hightower at the 2017 event.

“When people are running, they're meditating and focusing their strength and energy on the people that need to receive healing.”

Sarah Higginbotham, Hunter's mother, also reports that he is cancer-free. "He's doing great, but he's going through the harder phase of treatment," she said.

BY CONNIE RIDDLE

meditating and focusing their strength and energy on the people that need to receive healing."

In 2018, the 5K event brought in more than $15,000 and Cassy was able to bless five recipients. This past year, Cassy was able to raise more than $11,000 and was able to bless Jena Yoder, a mother of six, and Hunter Higginbotham, a 3-year-old toddler.

"They told Jena over the summer that she needed to call Hospice in, but I got the report [January 17th] that she is cancer-free," she shared. "God is so good. If I didn't trust Him, I wouldn't be the blessing to others that I am today."

Sarah shared that Hunter's being diagnosed in June of 2019 was a big surprise for their family. Although they experienced every stage of grief, they still believe that everything is in God's plan. "He has placed this challenge in our life for us to become closer to him and to be a witness for him… A testimony of faith." Sarah said that they never knew Cassy personally, but "her reasoning for why she picked us was amazing."

There is a lot of work to do, yet Cassy says that it's a matter of allowing God to lead the way. "It was just one of those things where I felt like it was my due diligence, my obligation to orchestrate it," said Cassy. "If it was [my] plan, I would've gone in the opposite direction. But, I trusted God!"

Run with Purpose 5K is held annually at Jaycee Stadium the first weekend in December.

For more information, contact Cassy Langley at (912) 256-6801. WM

TOP: Hunter Higginbotham with the family pup.

BOTTOM: Hunter Higginbotham, with his mother Sarah, Dad, and sister, was diagnosed with cancer in June 2019.

ABOVE: Jenna Yoder with her daughter and Cassy Langley at the 2019 event.

PHOTO

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

HOSPICE OF SOUTH GEORGIA

Heart Is WHERE THE

“We

welcome the opportunity to say ‘yes’ whenever possible, so our care is about you and your needs,” said Toni Ray, executive director at Hospice of South Georgia, Inc. The non-profit organization was formed in 1999 in Jesup, and has continued to grow to serve surrounding communities. “We are just the right size to be able to fit the evolving needs of end-of-life care and we are not too large that our care is not individualized and personal,” said Ray.

Hospice of South Georgia is community-based and community supported, dedicated to providing professional and compassionate care to its patients and their families, including clinical, emotional, spiritual and bereavement support. “Hospice of South Georgia has cared for the community and in turn the community has cared for us,” Ray said. “From the volunteers who work to the paid team members, to the donations that support our mission of positively impacting lives, [our community] has supported the area’s only community-based not-for-profit hospice.” About Hospice of South Georgia’s staff and care, Wayne County resident Edna Williamson said, “…the greatest group of caring people. Service to patients and their families come first. When choosing hospice care for your loved one, remember it is your choice by law which hospice you use. Hospice of South Georgia, Wayne County’s oldest non-profit, is where the patient is truly first. Remember where the money goes, here in Wayne or to a large for-profit whose bottom line is profit.”

In order to better serve the community, Hospice of South Georgia committed to building both administrative and

inpatient-care facilities. The construction was broken into two phases with the administrative facility (phase I), completed in 2012 with a permanent home office located at 1625 Sunset Blvd. “The growth of our agency,” said Ray, “in addition to the growing need for hospice services in the community has led to plans for Phase II, and we are very excited to be a permanent part of our community and truly give back to the community that supports us daily.” Phase II, or the inpatient facility, will be a state-of-the-art building, with inpatient rooms and support areas such as dietary, environmental, maintenance, and nursing bays.

Hospice of South Georgia, Inc. currently serves the counties of Wayne, Long, Liberty, Tattnall, Pierce, Brantley, Appling, Jeff Davis and parts of McIntosh, Bacon, and Glynn counties. Its staff specializes in pain control, skilled symptom management, and professional expertise. “We are a committed team of experts, “said Ray, “who strive for excellence and exceed the standards. We support out staff so they can put our patients and families first.” Ray also added, “Thank you for allowing Hospice of South Georgia to come into your homes for the last 20 years. We look forward to serving our community for many years to come.” WM

Story compiled by CANDICE MCKINLEY

Hospice of South Georgia Board Members: Rene Hutto, Barbara Haralson (Secretary), Antonia Harris, Julia Carter, Jan Hediger, Diane Clary (back row) Lana Wright, Margaret Jacobs, Cale Harris (Chairman of Board), Alan Jones (Treasurer), and Kathy Keith. Not pictured Edna Williamson (Co-Chair)

Ahmed ElSharkawi, M.D. Ph.D, FASN

Reejis Stephen, M.D.

Vicky Alday, FNP-BC

Colette Lee-Lewis, M.D.

Gina Jeffords *TWIRL MANIA COACH OF THE YEAR*

Gina Jeffords, owner of Gina’s Gems, has been named 2020 Twirl Mania International Coach of the Year. She won the title in 2017, 2018 and again this year and is the only twirling coach in the state of Georgia to ever win this award.

“It’s an amazing honor to win this award for the 3rd time,” said Jeffords. “It speaks so highly of this amazing group of students and parents. The hard work & dedication we all have to this sport is phenomenal. I could not do it without my awesome coaching staff, Jennifer Daniels, Addison Jeffords, Mary Katelyn Bland, Cyndi Oliver, and of course the 28 students that worked hard & placed high in their events to accumulate our top score.”

Baton twirling is a difficult feat, considering the timing and precision involved in the performance. It requires absolute concentration and coordination, not to mention top physical conditioning. The Twirl Mania Slogan is: If you can imagine the combination of a gymnasts flexibility, the throwing accuracy of a quarterback, the astonishing jumping ability of a basketball player, the exquisite grace of a dancer, the precision of a golfer, the fastidious reception of a football or baseball player, and the flawless skill of an ice skater all in one….while controlling a baton with the technical aspect of the sport as they perform the movements, you have Twirl Mania.

Twirl Mania Coach of the Year is awarded to the coach with the highest

“

points accumulated from their students wins at Twirl Mania. Points are counted for all solo & team events with at least three or more athletes or teams in a division to be counted. Coach of the year receives a check for $4,500.00, a special Disney trophy, three-night stay in a Disney resort, and a 3-Day Festival Park Hopper Ticket.

Twirl mania is a one-of-a-kind International Baton Twirling Championship for athletes of all organizations around the world. It takes place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. WM

I have twirled with Mrs. Gina since the age of three. She has taught me the most valuable lessons in twirling and life. Mrs. Gina has pushed me to be the best that I can be even with I did not want to. I could not imagine my life without the best coach and second mother any girl could ask for.” –

ELLIE GREENE

Addison Jeffords, Gina Jeffords, Mary Katelyn Bland, Ruby Kate Bland with participants at Twirl Mania.

Story compiled by CANDICE MCKINLEY

Photos Provided by GINA JEFFORDS

Kent Fountain has been elected Chairman of the National Cotton Council (NCC) for 2020. His election was announced during the NCC's 2020 annual meeting, held in New Orleans, Louisiana, in February. Fountain formerly served as the organization's vice chairman.

Outgoing chairman Mike Tate, of Huntsville, Alabama, said, “Kent served with great distinction this past year as the Council’s vice chairman. Of course, he came into the Council vice-chairman position very well qualified because of his effective service as a Council vice president and his past leadership experience with a number of organizations, including Cotton Council International, the National Cotton Ginners Association, the Cotton Growers Warehouse Association, and others.”

In High COTTON KENT FOUNTAIN TO LEAD NATIONAL COTTON COUNCIL IN 2020

Story compiled by JOHN RIDDLE

The NCC is the central organization for the U.S. cotton industry. It is the unifying force in working with the government to ensure that cotton’s interests are considered. Its mission is to ensure the ability of all U.S. cotton industry segments to compete effectively and profitably in the raw cotton, oilseed, and U.S. manufactured product markets at home and abroad.

“It’s an honor to be chosen to serve the cotton industry as Chairman for 2020. The National Cotton Council represents all seven segments of the cotton industry. One of the main issues we will be working on this year is mitigating current trade issues,” Fountain said.

He also serves as the Chairman of Premium Peanut LLC and Chairman of the Georgia Seed Development Commission, added that he “got involved in the

Photos Provided by THE NATIONAL COTTON COUNCIL

ABOVE: Kent Fountain addresses the National Cotton Council during its annual meeting.

“The National Cotton Council represents all seven segments of the cotton industry. One of the main issues we will be working on this year is mitigating current trade issues.”

– KENT FOUNTAIN

industry and leadership so that I could help shape the industry instead of relying on others.”

Fountain, who earned a degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Georgia, is President & CEO of Southeast Gin & Peanut, Inc., in Surrency, Georgia. He has received many industry awards, such as being named Southeastern Ginner of the Year in 2001 and winning the Horace Hayden National Ginner of the Year Award in 2016. He resides in Screven with his wife, Missi. WM

ABOVE: Kent and Missi Fountain at the NCC annual meeting in New Orleans.

ABOVE: Fountain recognizing Mike Tate, NCC's outgoing Chairman.

Girls on the Run

Story compiled by CANDICE MCKINLEY

Photos by CONNIE RIDDLE

this year marked the inaugural Girls on the Run program for students at Odum Elementary School and for the girls’ first ever 5K run, they were a part of Cassandra Langley’s fund-raising event Run for a Purpose, which raises money for local residents who have been affected by cancer.

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a national program with several chapters in Georgia, including the Atlanta metro area, Savannah, Brunswick, Valdosta, and now in Odum. The program is for girls in third through fifth grades and it incorporates lessons on inner well-being with exercise for physical well-being. Through the program, the students learn lessons centered around confidence, character, care, connections, competence, and contribution. GOTR consists of a 10-week season which leads to a 5k run at season’s end. “As a coach for this season’s Girls on the Run program at Odum Elementary, I can attest to the positive impact this program has had on students,” said OES teacher and GOTR coach Alyssa Yates.

and they encouraged me to keep going and to treat others with nothing but kindness…Now I can use what I have learned to help others in need of confidence and courage.”

OES fifth grade student and GOTR participant Kate Griffis said, “[GOTR] has been a very fun and helpful experience. It has helped me through a lot of tough times. It taught me about responsibility and how to let the ‘star’ in me shine! I am very thankful for the people who made it happen.”

The last several lessons focus on a community impact project. The girls, along with their coaches, Alyssa Yates, Amy Frye, Melanie Sapp, Becky Scott, Susan McCrary, and Danielle Herrin, decide how they want to have an impact locally and then plan and execute their chosen project. Odum’s girls decided to help make a very special Christmas for a family at Fair Haven’s women and children shelter for victims of domestic violence. “I have learned so many things in the Girls on the Run program,” said OES fourth grader and GOTR participant Sheila Spellman. “I’ve learned how to have confidence and inner strength. I face many different challenges in school. Trying to get healthy and fit is hard but [GOTR] has helped me. It’s taught me that I can be anything I want to be and I can make any dream come true. It was fun and I was able to run with my best friends. My coaches were nice

According to the GOTR website, Girls on the Run is the only national physical activity-based positive youth development program for girls with compelling evidence of program impact. “Our girls grew in confidence, conflict resolution, identifying and dealing with comfortable and uncomfortable emotions, accepting and loving others, being a good friend and choosing good friends, positive self-talk, and being empathetic,” Coach Yates said. It was a treat to watch these girls really develop the character traits the Girls on the Run highlights within its program. I am looking forward to our next season.” WM

ABOVE: Front row: Kate Griffis, Annesly Woodard, Gracie Brewer, Hardie Purcell, Second row: Carley May, Jullianne McHargue, Sheila Spellman, Karter Tyre, Back row: Becky Scott, Amy Frye, Alyssa Yates

Welcomes New Vet HUNTER BAIZE LAMAR

Hunter Lamar, who formally trained in the health care for both small and large animals and has a particular interest in canine reproduction, surgery, and beef cattle production, will become Wolfe Animal Hospital’s newest veterinarian this summer after completing his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Georgia.

A Statesboro native, Lamar loved animals growing up and began his journey to become a DVM while working at a corporate veterinary clinic during high school. His duties ranged from cleaning kennels to working as a veterinary technician alongside his mentor. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology, coupled with a minor in chemistry from Georgia Southern University. We at Wolfe Animal Hospital are very much looking forward to Hunter joining our practice and bringing new innovations and interests and skills to compliment our practice. I also understand that he and Dr. Barwick will be talking very much football. Hunter played on the offensive line for the GSU Eagles and recalled the best season was in 2013 when the Eagles drained the Swamp (GSU 26UF 20)!

While working on his doctorate, Lamar wanted to take advantage of every resource to

better prepare for the various responsibilities tied to being a veterinarian. As a DVM candidate, he was selected for multiple leadership roles, including Student Ambassador, Omega Tau Sigma Veterinary Fraternity Rush Chair, Ducks Unlimited Chapter Executive Chair. He co-founded the first chapter at UGA to participate in the Super Retriever Series University (SRSU) event. This team received first place in best retrievers and handlers from across the country. "While studying vet med, I fell in love with the retriever world. I enjoy making connections with trainers, owners, and dogs. These relationships fuel my passion for animal health care. And I never get tired of the animal-human bond," Lamar said.

Hunter said he chose Wolfe Animal Hospital because it serves both small and large animals in a rural and agricultural area similar to his hometown. "I'm extremely excited to be a part of the staff, and all the communities served; I look forward to working with Dr. Hall, Dr. Barwick, and the entire staff in the new state-of-the-art facility!"

Lamar has two yellow labrador retrievers, Mic and Cali. He also loves the outdoors, and his interests include hunting, fishing, spending time with family, and anything else that challenges him physically and mentally. WM

“I’ve

had the opportunity to do and achieve a plethora of things during my time at the University of Georgia. I plan to pull from these experiences as I begin my work in Jesup, GA!”

– HUNTER LAMAR

Small City

BIG Dream

Story by CANDEE HARRIS

As a boy growing up in Screven, Jason Weaver always had a lot going on. Playing baseball, bagging groceries at the IGA and working summers in his "Papa" Wilson Rooks' tobacco patch and hog farm kept him busy. Of all the things he dreamed he'd be one day, "mayor" was never one of them. And even as a young adult, it wasn’t on his radar or his bucket list. He attended college at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) for a time before deciding to return home and live his life in his favorite place.

But things change and life goes on. In 2011, life took a very unexpected turn and things changed dramatically. In September of that year, Jason married his sweetheart, Harley. They were on top of the world. Three months later their world literally came crashing down. While at work, Jason suffered a catastrophic injury that crushed his lower extremities. He spent the next two years in a wheelchair, traveling to Savannah for therapy three days a week, learning to walk again. With a second chance to find his purpose in life, Jason knew he wanted to give back to his community –in some way – for all they had done for his family during his darkest days.

When 2017 rolled around and local elections were on the horizon, Jason decided to throw his name in the hat for Mayor of Screven. Probably wouldn’t win, he thought, but he'd never know if he didn't try. However, if he did win, this would be a perfect way to fulfill his desire to give back. And win, he

did! Once sworn in, he hit the ground running to work on issues that had been plaguing the little town. He kept moving forward one day at a time, getting the city back on track, becoming involved in the community, and making connections from Atlanta to Washington, DC.

One of the first things he did was take the advice of City of Jesup Commissioner Nick Harris to join the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), the state’s official organization for advocacy, ser-

Jason Weaver knew he wanted to give back to his community – in some way – for all they had done for his family and since 2017, he has been doing just that, as Mayor of Screven.

vice, and training on behalf of the cities of Georgia. Through GMA, Jason began gaining the necessary training for his new role and connecting with members from other cities throughout the state. He made it a practice to travel to Atlanta to meet with Wayne County’s

Photos provided by the family

ABOVE: Mayor Weaver with U.S. Representative Buddy Carter.

“One of my favorite parts of this job," said Jason, "is working with all the government in our community and state to make sure our citizens have a wonderful place to work and play.” To that end, he and the City of Screven staff have hosted events for elected officials to come together for conversation in a casual atmosphere, established community events that included, among other fun stuff, “real” snow for the local kids to play in, and they continue to to work diligently to make Screven a place that residents are proud to call home.

state legislators and advocate for Screven and Wayne counties. Through these visits and connections, Jason made a positive impact on those he met.

Over the next two years, he began to receive board appointment offers from the local level up to federal. He currently serves on the Wayne County Tourism Board, the Heart of Georgia Regional Commission Board, GMA’s Legislative Policy Council and Federal Policy Council, the Southeast Georgia Regional

Partnership Economic Development Group, and most recently U.S. Congressman Buddy Carter drafted a recommendation for him to serve on the Federal Transportation and Infrastructure Board as a representative for Georgia after being suggested by GMA’s Federal Liaison Becky Taylor. In addition, Jason is currently GMA’s District 9 2nd Vice President, a stepping stone to district presidency and possibly beyond in the organization.

But Mayor isn't his only title. "Husband" and "father" are his favorites. In addition to being a husband, he is a father to four beautiful daughters that also keep him going. Twenty-year-old Reagan is a sophomore and majorette at the University of Troy, so weekend trips to Alabama during football season are a top priority. Sixteen-year-old Mallory, Twelve-year-old Emilee and Eleven-yearold Jaylee also keep him and Harley on their toes. They, in turn, encourage him to continue doing what he’s doing.

At the end of the day, Jason sums it up like this. “My favorite saying is ‘living a dream’. Because I feel like we're all living a dream, and it's up to you how you live that dream, [you determine] your final outcome." WM

ABOVE: “Mayor” isn't his only title. "Husband" and "father" are his favorites. In addition to being a husband to his wife Harley, he is father to four beautiful daughters, Reagan, Mallory, Emilee, and Jaylee, who also keep him going.

TOP LEFT: The “face” of Screven includes Councilman Bobby Gray, City Clerk Barbara Daniels, Mayor Jason Weaver, Police Chief Mike Hargrove, Utilities Clerk Adrianne Hunter, and Councilman Lee Stevenson.

Wayne Family Connection

TAKING MENTAL HEALTH SERIOUSLY

Wayne County is taking action to keep a legacy of advocacy alive. There is a long history of service for those in our community in need of resources, support, and education. The Wayne County Family Connection Collaborative is the product of a State of Georgia Organization known as the Georgia Family Connection Partnership. It is the only statewide network in the country dedicated to the health and well-being of families and communities.

Wayne County Family Connection developed a strategic plan to begin addressing the need to bring awareness and education on Mental Health issues affecting our community. For this purpose, a Mental Health subcommittee task force was formed to plan and implement a plan to support this cause.

A recent news story on WTOC highlighted the efforts by Wayne County High School to produce various public service announcements creating awareness of mental health issues, specifically for suicide awareness. These moving videos are directed and created by high school students and show some of the signs and symptoms to be aware of with the goal of increasing awareness. With

Story by SHAUNA MATTINGLY, LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER, ANCHORED IN WELLNESS

this project, our community can begin to acknowledge the signs that someone they love is struggling and know what resources are available to support and treat the various types of struggles that someone may face.

Wayne County High School has implemented the “BeThe1To” campaign, which teaches students to act with kindness toward others and notice when peers are in need of support. Also, the Wayne County School System has partnered with local mental health providers to offer counseling to students that are uninsured and/or may not have access to services in the community.

The Mental Health Task Force is planning various projects that will be introduced or kicked off in May 2020, which is National Mental Health Awareness Month. A community needs assessment

VISION: “All individuals have opportunities to grow and develop into successful and productive citizens in a positive environment enhanced by a nurturing family and a supportive community.”

MISSION: “To assist our citizens in making positive life choices by way of a collaborative approach.”

Monthly Meetings: 4th Monday9:30 a.m. - Family Connection office - 367 Bamboo Street; Jesup. To get involved / For more information: 912-385-2057

will be conducted from February 15 until April 15, and the results will be used to develop an educational portion of the May campaign.

Wayne County has a long history of pulling together when faced with adversity. This is a movement that we can all agree with worth the fight. WM

Take Part in the Community Needs Assessment February 15 – April 15

To take the assessment, contact Lana Wright, Executive Director of WFC, at 912-256-2150 or e-mail familyconnection@waynehelp.com. For more information on Wayne Family Connection visit: waynehelp.com

wWARMER DAYS WILL BRING FRIENDS AND FAMILY TOGETHER EVEN MORE

Of course, everyone will be hungry! This season offer your guests unique variations on some of everyone's favorites, starting with an old stand-in, the Low Country Boil.

I don't know anyone living in the South who doesn't love a Low Country Boil (LCB)!! It's perfect when you need to feed a lot of people in casual clothing, and most often is prepared outside by the man or men of the house. But what if you don't want food for 50 people? What if you want those same delightful flavors, but you want to enjoy them in your party clothes?

I wanted to call this a "deconstructed" LCB. But given that a traditional LCB is pretty deconstructed already, my critics suggested this is actually a "constructed" LCB. It can be made easily in the kitchen, and the only real "cooking" is to steam the potatoes. Feel free to use traditionally cooked LCB ingredients, but if you're pressed for time, your well-stocked freezer can be your best friend! I hit the Walmart freezers, meat and produce departments, and spice and condiment aisles.

Everyone who knows Susan Goehring knows that her favorite pastime is cooking. She is one of Wayne County’s “culinary queens” and is Wayne Magazine’s food contributor.

Story and Recipes by SUSAN GOEHRING Photos on this page by K. LYN PHOTOGRAPHY

ABOVE: CONSTRUCTED LOW COUNTRY BOIL (Recipe on following page)

CONSTRUCTED LOW COUNTRY BOIL

(2) 12oz bags large peeled, deveined, tail on cooked shrimp

(1) 2lb bag whole kernel corn

(2) lbs baby red potatoes (1 ½” to 2” size)

(2) lbs fully cooked smoked sausage of choice (I used Hillshire Farms)

(1) 16oz jar Mezzetta Imported Cocktail Onions

(1) 6oz can Old Bay Seasoning (you will NOT need a full can) Homemade or purchased cocktail sauce

Disposable asian spoons (available at Dollar stores) Cocktail picks

(1) Bag angel hair shredded green cabbage for tray, if desired

Thaw frozen shrimp, removing tails. Layer in a plastic container, sprinkling between each layer with Old Bay. Thaw corn, season, and place in container. Steam or microwave potatoes until tender (I prefer to steam). Let cool, then slice, layer, and sprinkle. Slice sausage, layer, and sprinkle. Cut cocktail onions in half, layer, and sprinkle. For best flavor, refrigerate overnight. Yield: 40 and 50 appetizer servings.

To “construct,” place onion on pick, with stem end up, follow with sausage, then potato, then shrimp. Fill spoon with corn, then stand pick up on spoon. Place on serving tray with bowl of cocktail sauce.

SMOKED SALMON AND CUCUMBER TEA SANDWICHES

(1) Loaf “squishy” white bread, preferably square slices

(2) 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened

(1) TB (or to taste) Hidden Valley Ranch

Seasoning

(1) English cucumber, thinly sliced 8 oz thinly sliced smoked salmon (available at WalMart)

(1) Bunch fresh dill (washed and dried) or dried dill for garnish

Using a 1 ½ or 2-inch biscuit cutter, cut two pieces out of each slice of bread, avoiding the crust where possible. Using a mixer, blend Ranch seasoning into softened cream cheese to taste.

Spread one side of each bread round with the seasoned cream cheese, then top with one slice of cucumber and a small slice of smoked salmon. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkling of the dried dill. Refrigerate until time to serve.

Photo by K. LYN PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE TRUFFLES

(3) 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened

(1) 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

(1) 12 oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted

(4) Eggs

(2) tsp vanilla extract

(2) Cups chocolate or graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped nuts or desired covering

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

In large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add sweetened condensed milk, beat until smooth. Add remaining ingredients, mix well. Pour into casserole dish and bake until center springs back when lightly touched (55 to 65 minutes). Cool to room temperature, then chill in refrigerator.

When ready to roll, scoop a small portion using teaspoons, and roll between your hands, then drop into desired covering. I recommend you only take a fourth or so out of the dish at a time. You may even want to place teaspoon size portions on a baking sheet and then stick in the freezer for a few minutes. WARNING – THIS IS VERY MESSY, but oh so delicious!!

Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

TINY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI POT PIES

(2) Cans small flaky biscuits, extremely cold

(2) 12.5 oz cans chunk chicken breast, drained and flaked

(1) 10.5 oz can Campbell's cream of chicken soup

(1) lb frozen broccoli crowns, finely chopped (no big stems)

(2) 8 oz packages shredded colby jack or cheddar cheese

(1) 4 oz package sliced almonds, chopped

Using first can of biscuits, take 2 or 3 out, then put others back in refrigerator to stay cool. Each biscuit will separate into 3 or 4 layers. The layers are thin and easy to tear. Place each piece into an ungreased miniature muffin tin, then press onto sides of tin. Use your fingertips or a pastry tamper, dipping in flour to keep from sticking.

Place flaked chicken in a large bowl. Add chicken soup, chopped broccoli, and one 8 oz package of cheese. Mix together and spoon into biscuit crusts in muffin tin. Do not mound too high, as they will bubble up as they cook. Top each pot pie with a pinch of shredded cheese from second package, then with a pinch of almonds on top. Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Let cool for a few minutes in muffin tin. If you remove when still hot, they may tear when you take them out. The pot pies are good at room temperature but can also be warmed for 3 or 4 minutes in a 300-degree oven.

Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

BOILED PEANUT HUMMUS

(2) Cups, shelled boiled peanuts (or 2 cans (13.5oz) Peanut Patch Original Boiled Peanuts, shelled)

(1/2) Cup fresh lemon juice

(6) TBS Tahini* (or 6 Tbsp. creamy peanut butter)

(2) Cloves garlic, crushed or grated finely (1) tsp ground cumin

(1/2) Cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more to garnish)

Salt and cayenne pepper to taste

Paprika for garnish

Combine peanuts, lemon juice, tahini (or peanut butter), garlic, and cumin in a food processor and puree. With the processor running, add oil and process until creamy. Season to your taste with additional lemon juice, garlic, or cumin. Add a tablespoon(s) of water until hummus is smooth and fluffy. Cover and refrigerate to blend flavors, at least one hour, or up to 3 days.

To serve, mound in a serving bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika and serve at room temperature with crackers or fresh veggies to dip.

* Tahini is a sesame paste. It can usually be found in the specialty foods section of full-service grocery stores.

CREME BRULEE MINIATURES

(8) Egg yolks

(1/3) Cup granulated sugar

(2) Cups heavy (whipping) cream

(1) tsp vanilla extract

(1/2) Cup (or more) granulated sugar or brown sugar (I prefer brown sugar)

Preheat oven to 300 degrees

Whisk together egg yolks and sugar until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is thick and pale yellow. Add the cream and vanilla. Whisk until well blended. Strain to remove any foam or bubbles.

Pour into casserole dish, then place in a water bath.** Bake until it is set around the edges but slightly loose in the center, about 45 to 55 minutes. Remove from oven but let sit in water bath until cooled. Remove dish and chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

Spoon cooled creme into disposable miniature (2 oz) shot glasses or portion cups. For your topping, cover a sheet pan with aluminum foil. Spread brown or white sugar on the foil. Using a hand-held kitchen torch cook the sugar until it is browned and bubbly. Or, place the pan underneath the broiler until the sugar has melted –watch closely – it can BURN quickly. Using a spoon, place the sugar, bubbled side up, on the dessert, and enjoy. If desired, you may top with a dab of whipped cream.

For individual “full” size servings, pour mixture into 6 ramekins or custard cups. Place in water bath** and bake until set as above, 40-45 minutes. Let cool in the water bath, then chill. When ready to serve, either put the sugar directly on the crème, then torch or brown as above.

** Using a slightly bigger pan than the casserole dish (or ramekins), place a folded dish towel on the bottom. Place the casserole dish in the pan, then fill the pan with boiling water, halfway up the side of the dish. Carefully place in oven. Be careful when removing as the water will be hot. WM

Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo by K. LYN PHOTOGRAPHY

“And this, my lovely child, is your garden.”

–

A Child in a Garden

This photograph is not typical of my regular composites for baby portrait photography. I call this technique “Painterly Portraits” because of the painterly effect with digital photography. This particular artwork was inspired by some classic children’s book illustrations, which is how the client envisioned the style they wanted me to achieve. This mosaic was created with digital pieces. The background, flowers, arch, trees, and even the sky, are different parts that were brought together. The child was photographed in the studio and then composited in. The overall artwork underwent a significant editing process to create the blended, painterly effect.

Mattie Genaux specializes in maternity, newborn and family portraiture, while branching out into fine art composites through newborn photography. This outlet has created a new passion for Mattie in creating works of art tailored to each client’s needs. For more information, visit genauxphotography.com or facebook. com/MattieGenauxPhotography.

FRANCES HODGSON BURNETT

Story and Artwork By MATTIE GENAUX

“Global Impact - Local Pride”

Leadership Wayne Class

Cultivating Creativity

Story by CANDICE MCKINLEY

Photography by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

WWhenever I speak with someone about the creative process, I often hear that person say they aren’t creative… “at all.” The number of people who’ve told me that they can’t draw a stick figure could fill Kay Cagle Theatre of Performing Arts and has severely stunted the stick figure population.

Everyone has creativity latent inside of them--we are, literally, creations--how could it be otherwise? If you have ever lost your keys five minutes before an important meeting or struck a compromise between arguing siblings, then you know how to find creative solutions. The challenge is cultivating your creativity to make it do what you want it to do. Creativity is learned like any other skill and your "brand" is inside of you, waiting to be unearthed. Whether it be cultivating creativity in others, photographing the heavens, acting in a play, creating music, or painting, the creative process needs fertile ground to grow, as the creators and artists in this issue's Art & Culture section will confirm. The following are some of the best methods I have found to be fruitful in cultivating creativity:

Inspire Yourself - Read books about your favorite subjects, and let go of what you think you should be learning about. Enjoy the process of learning about a variety of topics and then explore where and how they connect. I stay busy, so I enjoy listening to audiobooks from Audible. In addition, keep a file on inspirational content and images that you stumble across while surfing the web. My favorite websites include thisiscolossal.com, space.com, and gurneyjourney. com.

Creative Walks - Creative walks are for meandering while exploring ideas or

“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.”

- ALBERT EINSTEIN

emotions. If you get stuck on a problem, creative or otherwise, go for a walk to get the body and the mind working together. This is how "insight" happens - when your conscious mind is occupied with an auto-pilot activity like walking, your subconscious mind can rifle through all the stored files in your brain to find creative solutions. Bill Morris and McMillian parks are my favorite local spots.

Journaling - I follow Julia Cameron’s method of journaling, described in her book The Artist’s Way. This exercise involves writing three “morning pages”

each day. The first page or so is all about getting through your mental chatter. After that, you’ll be amazed at the words that are scribbled from your own hand.

Prayer & Meditation - Find 10-20 minutes to sit in solitude each day and practice being still. Over time, you'll be able to hear the still small voice inside of yourself, nudging you in the direction of your dreams. I sit down first thing in the morning and follow a guided meditation to set the tone for the day. Keep a notepad nearby to jot down any recurring thoughts or "to-do's." WM

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•61% of magazine ads prompt readers to take action.

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We provide businesses the opportunity to reach consumers in a broad area through local and regional high-quality, perfect bound magazines. We print over 46,000 magazines annually with an estimated readership of 3. 5 readers per copy.

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‘art’ PUTTING THE

IN SMART

Story by CANDICE MCKINLEY | Photography provided by the Wayne County School System

BEFORE CHILDREN ARE TAUGHT HOW TO DRAW, they create purely from their imagination, which allows them to begin expressing their inner thoughts. Art in general, and drawing in particular, allows each child to more accurately describe what’s in his or her mind through physical representation. This creative expression is important to the development of the self and cannot be taught through rote memorization.

After the recession of 2008, many schools were under financial pressure and forced to eliminate, or drastically reduce, their art programs. In fact, 80 percent of the nation’s schools faced budget cuts and No Child Left Behind and

the Common Core State Standards pushed educators to prioritize science and math over other subjects - and Arts programs were the first to go. The Wayne County School System previously had art programs from elementary through high school. During the recession, art programs were cut out of the elementary grade levels. It was decided that art skills could be incorporated into other subjects by teachers with an ever-increasing workload, who did not all specialize in art education. In middle and high school grades, art programs weren’t eliminated, but resources were made scarce due to budget belt-cinching.

The idea that great engineers and scientists and discoverers and inventors are brought up through

a track system, on a steady diet of math and science, without being encouraged creatively, is false. At its root, creativity is simply a new and useful way of combing old ideas, and employing its strategies led to some of the greatest breakthroughs of the 20th Century, including Einstein’s Theory of Relativity and Quantum Mechanics. Without exposure to the creative process, he wouldn’t have been able to come up with a new way of seeing the components of reality that had yet to emerge, i.e. the fabric of spacetime.

A decade later, art as an individual subject was welcomed back into Wayne County elementary schools. Many factors played a role in the re-institution process. Namely, at the state level, the

ABOVE: First grade students at Jesup Elementary School created Constitution Day artwork, which was on display at the Georgia State Capitol. Each student created their version of the Statue of Liberty.

“As an educator and art enthusiast, I was thrilled to be a part of bringing art back into the elementary schools here in Wayne County. It has been proven that when the Arts are fully supported, test scores improve as well as students’ self-esteem. Students also need to be aware of how art is used in everyday life and can be a future career choice in many different ways.”

-J ESUP ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ART EDUCATOR APRIL

criteria was changed for the CCRPI (College and Career Ready Performance Index), Georgia’s annual tool for measuring how well its schools, districts, and the state itself are preparing students for the next educational level.

In 2018, the CCRPI fine arts readiness scores were raised, along with changes in other subjects. In order to reach its performance goals, the Wayne County school system reintroduced art back into the school curriculum at the elementary level by hiring multiple art educators. Supplemental art programs were also added at the middle and high school levels to meet the county’s overall CCRPI scores for fine art. Art educators for the entire county were given the CCRPI fine arts requirements and collaborated on how best to prepare their students for an introduction to the arts in elementary school through the high school levels of competition.

To continue advocating for the arts in Wayne County schools, (art educator and coordinator) Laura Gregory said that it is a priority for the student’s artwork to be seen by the public, including contests, online portfolios, and exhibits, like the one recently held in February at three elementary schools in Wayne County. The greater the value

placed on the student’s artwork from the beginning, the greater the value creativity has in the public’s mind as beneficial to the learning process and its importance in schools. “Our goal right now is to make sure that we are a valuable component at the elementary level,” she said. Gregory is the visual arts instructor at Martha Puckett and Arthur Williams Middle Schools.

“As a teacher who always tried to incorporate art along with the academic lessons, I was very excited for all students to have the opportunity to participate in the visual arts,” said Cindy Blanton, visual arts instructor at Odum Elementary School. “It is very exciting for me to be teaching art to our students. They are gaining self-confidence in their abilities to create amazing pieces of art when at first, they weren’t sure they could do it. I love to see their amazement as they look at their work with joy and satisfaction.”

Gregory cited Georgia’s School Superintendent Richard Woods as having significantly contributed to raising fine arts component of the CCRPI scores in the state. “Dr. Woods is pro-fine arts,” she said. “He is a visual arts and music person himself, and helped changed STEM to STEAM, which is bringing a lot more art education to our school systems, statewide.”

Superintendent Woods has been nationally-recognized for his leadership regarding fine arts. He was the first person in more than 20 years to provide fine arts support to districts and classrooms across the state. For the first time, the Georgia Department of Education is also providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) certification which rewards

ABOVE: Odum Elementary School student Caleb Collins

ABOVE: Screven Elementary students Bryce Wall and Caleb Mock are adding final touches to their pumpkin art. BELOW: Jesup Elementary School students collaborated on a mural for Jesup's Downtown Art Walk.

schools that integrate fine arts into their instruction and provide fine art opportunities for their students. Gregory said that in the two years since the program began, the art educators have noticed an improvement in students who are coming in at the middle school level, in arts readiness. They already have a basic understanding of color and design fundamentals, and a working knowledge of some of the mediums, so the middle school teachers are no longer at a disadvantage in preparing their students for the competitive levels of high school art programs. Elementary students are also touching on some of the fundamental art history giants, like Van Gogh, whose style still alters the way our society sees beauty and individuality, 130 years after his death. Zaylee Drew, a 5th grade student at Jesup Elementary School said, “Art is important to me because I can express my ideas with colors and I am able to come up with my

own ideas. My favorite thing to do in art is to use different patterns and textures to create a work of art. I am so glad we have art in our school!”

In addition, students are willing to take more risks because of the creative process. “Whenever you work in a creative way, you’re going to make mistakes,” Gregory said. “And if you don’t, you didn’t push yourself hard enough. If we’re pushing our art students to where they’re going to make mistakes, we’re also teaching them to push through their mistakes to find the right answer for their own creative work.” Stretching the boundaries of one’s critical thinking skills is the kind of risk-taking strategy students need to develop in order to have a competitive advantage entering the high school and college levels, not to mention the workforce. She said

that to the level the arts teachers can push their students past the limits of their comfort zone, they are teaching them to look for creative solutions to problems that can’t be memorized. “To the extent that they can do that,” she concluded, “they are going to be more successful at everything they do.” WM

ABOVE: Odum Elementary School students Kiley Robinson and Gracie Brewer.

ABOVE: James E. Bacon Elementary School students Isabel Gonzalez and Elijah Gonzalez. RIGHT: James E. Bacon Elementary School student Brooklyn Wood.

Out of This World

WHAT’S OUT THERE?

It’s a question the human race has contemplated since before the dawn of civilization and a mystery that continues today. Wayne County resident, Don Cahill, remembers growing up during the “Great Space Race,” between the United States and the then USSR, including the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo spaceflight programs, and watching on television as the first men, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, walked on the moon.

The Rosette Nebula is located in the Monoceros (Unicorn) constellation, not too far from Orion’s Belt. This emission nebula is approximately 65 light years in radius (one light year equals about six trillion miles) and is about 5,200 light years from Earth.

Story by Candice McKinley | Photography by Don Cahill

The quest for knowledge and sense of awe about deep space never left Don and for the last three years, he has been learning the art and science behind astrophotography, or the photography of objects and phenomena in space from his backyard. He has come to love capturing imagery of what the naked eye cannot see, allowing his photos to be messengers of “God’s celestial majesty.”

“Astrophotography gives us an artistic view of the night sky,” said Don.

Astrophotographers can image objects invisible to the human eye such as dim stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. This is done through long exposure photography since digital cameras can accumulate light over time. A nebula is a giant cloud of dust and gas, either thrown out by the explosion of a dying star (supernova), or cradling regions where new stars are beginning to form. Galaxies, like the Milky Way, are gravitationally bound systems of stars, stellar remnants, gas, dust, and dark matter. Each galaxy ranges in size, from dwarfs with just a few hundred million stars to giants with more than one hundred trillion stars.

Like any creative discipline, astrophotography is challenging and takes persistence, knowledge, and practice. A “typical” session lasts between three to six hours and involves Don taking 30-40 long exposure photos (one exposure equals about five minutes). This requires adjusting different manual camera settings that include the shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and many others, explaining why shooting night skies requires more advanced photography skills and camera know-how. And Don’s is not an average DSLR camera – it has been modified to capture specific lines of light invisible in the night sky. The

camera is attached to various telescopes, each one used to image different celestial objects. To navigate the night sky, Don uses bright stars to align his equipment. This information is programed into celestial tracking software. Each finished image has gone through six software programs, including star alignment, guiding, imaging, and post-processing programs. Where general photography involves images you can see, astrophotography is imaging what you can’t see.

And Don loves every minute of it.

1.) The California Nebula is located not far from the Pleiades, or Seven Sisters, star cluster, about 1,000 light years from Earth. This cosmic cloud resembles the outline of the state of California and drifts through the Orion Arm of the spiral Milky Way Galaxy.

2.) The Horsehead Nebula (and Flame Nebula) is another nebula located in the constellation Orion and is so named because of the horse-shaped tendril that is back lit by ionized hydrogen gas which often appears as red or magenta in images. The Flame Nebula is also pictured. Both nebulae are part of the larger star-forming region known as Orion Molecular Cloud Complex.

3.) The Orion Nebula, or Messier 42 (M42), is another stellar nursey like the Rosette nebula. However, M42 is the closest large star-forming region to Earth (about 1,300 light years) and this bright nebula can be seen with the naked eye, just below Orion’s Belt.

Around

Community Calendar

Wayne Magazine is pleased to partner with the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce on promoting their Community Calendar. The Chamber offers a Community Calendar for all groups, organizations, and businesses to post their upcoming events. This is an excellent way to see what is happening in our community and avoid scheduling big events on the same day. Visit the Chamber’s website at: waynechamber.com to review the full list of events and to add your organization’s upcoming activities.

Fairhaven's Fashion Frenzy

What better way to start the Spring than by attending a fashion event showcasing the fresh spring looks from local boutiques and supporting Wayne County’s women’s shelter? This

Explore the Mighty Altamaha River –Georgia’s Natural Treasure

An 11-mile or 16-mile family paddle with experience guides on a pristine section of the Altamaha River Water Trail. Both paddles begin at Upper County Landing. The 11-mile paddle will conclude at Oglethorpe (Pig Farm) Landing. The 16-mile paddle will conclude at Jaycee Landing but will break for lunch at the Pig Farm stop. Participants will meet at Upper County Landing to drop-off canoes/kayaks then drive to their end point. Shuttles will provide transportation back to Upper County Landing.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Saturday, April 18

TIME: 7:30 am - Meet at Upper County Landing to drop off canoes/kayaks.

8:30 am – Excursion begins from Upper County Landing

TICKETS: $10 – Children 10 & under are free

CONTACT: Wayne County Board of Tourism @ 912-427-3233 or heather@waynetourism.com

is a great event to celebrate Administrative Professional’s Day. Bring your staff and enjoy great food, a fun fashion show, and wonderful door prizes.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Friday, April 22

TIME: Doors open at 11am / Show & Lunch begin at 12 noon

TICKETS: $25

LOCATION: Unity Church of God

Fairhaven Board Members Jan Hediger, Chairman, Susan Goehring, Melissa Blanton

Around

Dining Through Downtown

Business After Hours

Employees from all businesses are encouraged to attend these evening networking events in a relaxed setting around town – this month’s after-hours event will be sponsored by Wayne County Chamber of Commerce member Hospice of South Georgia. Meet new people, build relationships and open and/or close the deal! For more information, email chamberoffice@waynechamber.com.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Thursday, May 21

TIME: 5pm – 7pm

LOCATION: Hospice of South Georgia

The Young Professionals Network was established by the Chamber under the Business Development Program of Work to provide professional and leadership development opportunities for Wayne County’s young professionals (ages 21-45).

Through quarterly networking events designed specifically for this age group, the program aims to foster future business and community leaders.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Thursday, June 18

TIME: 8:30am – 9:30am

LOCATION: The Holsey Law Firm

Trivia Night

A night of fun and fellowship, Teams of 4 compete for cash prize. Dinner and Drinks are served at the event. The next event will be in April. The date, time, and location is TBD.

Coffee Card Exchange

Enjoy a hot cup of coffee with friends, and meet new prospects, before starting your business day at our Coffee Card Exchange!

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Thursday, April 16

TIME: 8:30am – 9:30am

LOCATION: Marshland Credit Union

DATE: Thursday, June 18

TIME: 8:30am – 9:30am

LOCATION: The Holsey Law Firm

One woman’s junk is another woman’s and you might find just the treasure you’re looking for at one of three opportunities this Spring in Wayne County!

Shop till you drop in Jesup at Peachesto-Beaches hosted by Jesup Downtown Development Authority!

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Friday, March 13 & Saturday March 14

TIME: 8 am - 6 pm

LOCATION: Coastal Pines Technical College

Alice in Wonderland

Junkin’ In Jesup hosted by Junkin & Picking Market and Wayne County Farmer’s Market!

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Saturday, April 4

TIME: 10 am - 5 pm

LOCATION: Wayne County Farmer’s Market – 533 N. First St.

One of Jesup’s longest running festival, the Dogwood Festival is held annually featuring local craftsmen, food vendors, and entertainment!

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Saturday March 28

TIME: 9 am - 4 pm

LOCATION: Jaycee Fair Grounds

Join the cast of the Altamaha Children’s Theatre this Spring for the community production of Alice in Wonderland! Based on the classic by Lewis Carroll. By William Glennon. It's local talent only in this production, and Wayne County students from elementary to high school will take part in this classic story. The ACT is combining forces with the Wayne County Arts Council to continue bringing artistic outlets to Wayne.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Thursday, April 23 and Friday, April 24

TIME: 6:30pm

TICKETS: $8 for adults; $5 for students ages 4-18; Free for children under 3

LOCATION: Kay Cagle Theatre of Performing Arts (Wayne County High School) FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit the ACT’s Facebook page at Altamaha Community Theatre

Around

Wayne County Farmer's Market

For a real “farm-to-table” experience visit the Wayne County Farmer’s Market for locally grown produce, fruit, jellies and jams, fresh seafood, homemade breads, and freshly made foods. For more information follow the WCFM on Facebook or visit their website: thewcfm.org.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Opens April 10 through the season

TIME: Fridays & Saturdays: 10 am – 2 pm

LOCATION: 533 N. First Street

CONTACT: info@waynefarmersmarket.com

BBQ & Blues Spring Fundraiser

Raising funds to benefit Wayne County Farmers Market. Featuring Jeff Chandler and Ian Short singing the Blues, Rock and Folk favorites.

IF YOU GO...

DATE: Saturday, April 25

TIME: 6 pm - 8 pm

TICKETS: $25 / $15 Children 12 & Under

LOCATION: 533 N. First Street (Farmers Market)

CONTACT: (912) 424-9026 / candeeharris.63@gmail.com

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

LEADERSHIP WAYNE

Leadership Wayne participants visited with Governor Brian Kemp during their State Government and Economic Development day in Atlanta. The program seeks individuals with a sincere commitment and motivation to serve the community and who have demonstrated leadership

qualities and potential for continued leadership development and serve the community in various ways. The program was revitalized and expanded during the 2008 – 2010 time frame under the direction of John Benner, Randy Franks, Mickey Whittington, and John Riddle.

Front row: Allen Boyd, Kelly Shanklin, Miranda Wainscott, Stephen Harvell, Susan Goehring, Governor Brian Kemp, Deena Bennett, Molly Hall, MoRonica Ravenell, Tammy Thornton, Mark Williams Back row: Steven Meeks, Bill Werkheiser, Jody Sciance, Nick Ellis, Joe Manning, Jon Ashley, Clay Teston, Pamela Shuman, Jodi Lewis, Jeff Griffith, Raymond Brown, Dell Keith, Blake Tillery

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Call or go online today to see how Express can help.

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212 South First Street

Jesup, GA 31545

ExpressPros.com

Positions include:

• Flexible Staffing

Dr. Headley is a board-certified Family Physician and has served patients and their families in Wayne County since 2002. Headley Family Medicine makes it possible for you and the people you care about to live longer, healthier lives! Whether you or a family member is coping with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, emp emphysema, diabetes, or the common cold, our  staff, led by William Headley, MD, offers the best care and treatment for each patient. Our patients are able to rely on and trust the medical advice they provide.

William V. Headley, Jr. MD FAAFP

TOWN

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

“…Melissa

“…Like

Melissa Moxley’s new book is now available at Barnes & Noble and on amazon.com. It is also available as an eBook.

BIG MAN ON CAMPUS: WCHS STUDENT COUNCIL’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

The WCHS student council hosted its annual Big Man on Campus in December 2019. The event is an annual fundraiser for the student council organization. Various school organizations sponsor a high school senior to represent them in the competition. Outof-town judges conduct an individual interview the day of the event then judge on stage segments including talent, evening wear, and outfit of

choice, which the contestants used to show their personality. The audience determines the “People’s Choice” award through voting with money that also goes to the student council organization. The winner gets $500 to direct toward his sponsoring organization. The 2019 “Big Man on Campus” winner, Ki Riddle, sponsored by the WCHS soccer team, used the funds to help purchase new team jerseys.

“Our tongues have the capacity to savor the sweetness of homemade ice-cream, while simultaneously releasing bitterness through rashly spoken words. Soul Food discusses the importance of disciplining our mouths. Using scripture and personal experience combined with family recipes, Melissa helps us understand the ramifications of the words we speak.”

Melissa’s first book, For You My Husband, was the 2016 Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year. She works as a freelance writer and volunteers with several community organizations. She resides in Wayne County with her family.

Pharoah Spellman, Evening Wear Winner; Quinton Sanders, Talent Winner; Lewis Loa, 3rd Runner-Up; Blake McIlwain, 2nd Runner-Up; Ki Riddle, “Big Man on Campus” & Interview Winner; Robert Headley, 1st Runner-Up; Mac Cooper, Outfit of Choice; Chelton Burke, People’s Choice Award.

RELIGION/CHRISTIAN

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

DAY FOR WAYNE

Wayne County hosted visitors and dignitaries from across the state for its annual “Day for Wayne” event in November. The Wayne County Board of Tourism coordinated the event, along with many local sponsoring businesses and agencies, in order to promote Wayne’s quality of Life. The event allows local

elected and business leaders to converse with regional and state decision-makers and to foster support for Wayne County’s needs and interests. Each year, visitors are able to enjoy hunting, river and farm tours, and a local lunch. “Day for Wayne” is held at the Clanton River Ranch on the Altamaha River.

3. John Riddle, Bryan Griffis, and Shane Marshall

4. Matt and Deena Bennett

5. Jerry and Nancy Jones

6. Kamden Gibbs, Governor Brian Kemp, and Waters Herndon

7. Wayne County Student Chamber of Commerce Board with Governor Brian Kemp

8. Billy Clanton and Governor Brian Kemp

9. Wayne County High School Junior ROTC

10. Janet Hollingsworth, Russell Lee, and Rindy Trapnell

11. Nick Ellis, Chris Hamilton, and Perry Morgan

12. Butch Hubbard, Cale Bennett, Raymond Brown, Patrick Hayman, and Jim Poindexter

13. James “Boot” Thomas, Terry Thomas, and Dr. Jay Brinson

14. John and Connie Riddle, and Governor Brian Kemp

1. Sandra and Clay Bathea

2. Stephen Harvell, Clay Teston, Susan Goehring, Deena Bennett, Pam Shuman, MoRonica Ravenell, Jodi Lewis, Tammy Thornton, and Jody Sciance

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY’S ANNUAL BANQUET

The Jesup Downtown Development Authority banquet is held each year for downtown property and business owners. The 2019 banquet was held on Sept. 12th at Coastal Pines Technical College. This event helps highlight ongoing and upcoming projects for the downtown area. This year’s presentation focused on Jesup’s 2019 designation as a Rural Zone community by DCA. The R.U.R.A.L. (Revitalizing Underdeveloped Rural Areas) Legislation is intended to assist in the revitalization of our community by incentivizing new business to come downtown. We are one of the first 18 cities in Georgia to receive the designation. By creating new jobs, investing in commercial property and restoring old

buildings through preservation initiatives downtown entrepreneurs can unlock: Job Tax Credits, Investment Tax Credits and Rehabilitation Tax Credits. The presentation also made note of the DDA’s local Façade and Sign Grant, and its continued focus on the RSVP Master Plan.

1. City Commissioner District 1 and the “A Team"

2. Dawn Zmuda, Jennifer Reeder. Back (L to R) Jerilyn Bennett, Debi Smith and Molly Hall

3. Sue and Van Williamson, Graham Williamson, Courtney Tyre, and Trey Williamson

4. Tony Reddish and Debra King

5. Jennifer Reeder, Steven Reeder, Cindy Nichols and Clarissa Cooper

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

WINTER WONDERLAND GALA

Kingdom Builders Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Brandon Ogden and Associate Minister Antonio Hardee, recently kicked off its third year of ministry with a Winter Wonderland Inaugural Fundraising Gala at the C. Paul Scott Polytechnical Center at Coastal Pines Technical College. The benefit event for United Way, Wayne County Partners in Education, and the Upon

This Rock We Build Initiative, featured the Wayne County High School Jazz Band, spoken word artist Moody Black, saxophonist Bernard Rose and guest performance band United Grove. Special thanks to all friends, businesses, and corporate sponsors of this spectacular annual event.

Photography by Davontay Wilson Photography

8.

TALK OF THE TOWN

Showcase

O1. Shugg Frazier, Stephanie Tirado, Lily Parajon

2. Alezia Pear, Jolie Williams, Ansley Steverson, Kadie Moxley

3. Ki Riddle, Presley Cain, Tracy Chen, Stephanie Tirado

4. Robert Headley, Ki Riddle, John Austin Shaver

5. Bailee Banks, Leanna Cooper, Caroline Armstrong, Graham Stanley, Maggi Sluder

6. Michael Shaver, Jaikyn Durrence, Sophie Fender, Klaire Murray, Antonie Juarbe, Tyson Henderson

STUCO RALLY

n Wednesday, September 25, theDistrict 3 Conference 2019 brought together schools from around southern Georgia to “Explore the Elements of Leadership”. Over 200 people attended and experienced leadership enhancing workshops, heard from special keynote speaker De’Marco Fomby, and met students from other schools in the area. The enriching workshops included topics such as different leadership styles, how to combat productivity, and how

to reduce flaws in communication. Students also had the chance to participate in the Bert’s Big Adventure state service project, which provides an all expense paid trip to Disney World for kids with chronic and terminal illnesses, as well as bond with other students during Human Scrabble! Overall, we had an incredible turnout that exceeded all expectations and allowed us to pull off a successful District 3 Conference!

SOLID ROCK CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Solid Rock Christian Academy hosted its Second Annual Donor Banquet in November at Coastal Pines Technical College. The board members and faculty recognized community participants and parents who participate in the Georgia State Tax Credit Program, in addition to those who give donations above the monthly tuition. At the banquet, the academy’s

future facility plans were presented to all attending guests. Solid Rock Christian Academy was founded in 2012 and currently serves a student body of approximately 95 students from Pre-K through 7th grade. In addition to educating the mind, SRCA believes educating the soul is of equal importance, and has the motto, “challenging minds, cultivating hearts, and impacting culture.”

Chasity Geiger

Leanne Leonard and Moronica Ravenell

Ron & Vicki Jeckstadt, Cindy Valosen

Jeffrey & Jamie Moody

Ray & Roni Moore

SRCS Students-Kennedi Fuller, Jude and Lex Bowen, Jaxon Leonard, Judah Brantley, and Malik Ravenell

Stephenie Stewart and Candice & Brian Emery

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

2020 ANNUAL WAYNE COUNTY EGGS & ISSUES

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Eggs & Issues breakfast at Coastal Pines Technical College in January. This event is a great opportunity for residents and local business owners to hear from their

legislators before they begin their 2020 legislative session in Atlanta. This year’s guest speakers included Georgia State Senator Blake Tillery and Georgia State Representatives Bill Werkheiser and Steven Meeks.

2. Dr. Brett McDaniel and Dr. Jay Brinson

3. Bryan Griffis and Commissioner Kevin McCrary

4. Joy Burch-Meeks and Connie Riddle

5. Clay Bathea and Senator Blake Tillery

6. Anthony Correa, Vanessa Correa, John Austin Shaver, Judge R. Violet Bennett, Ki Riddle, and Gracie Carter

7. Candee Harris and Nick Harris

8. Deena Bennett, Rep. Steven Meeks, Sen. Blake Tillery, Rep. Bill Werkheiser, and Mark Watson

9. Connie Riddle, Jan Hediger, Monica O’Quinn, and Melissa Lamb

1. McKinley Ravenell, MoRonica Ravenell, Kara Lopez, and Alan Volskay

Gopher's offers delicious food, good conversations, and an inviting small town atmosphere perfect for enjoying tr traditional Southern cuisine.

Catering Available

Affordable Lawn Care

Altamaha Canine Consulting, LLC

Altamaha Federal Credit Union

Ankle & Foot

Armstrong Family Dentistry

B&B Concrete Services

Banks Real Estate

Bone & Joint Institute

Boykin Steel & Crane

Café Euro Group

Calvary Baptist Church

Caroline’s Boutique & More

City of Jesup

Coastal Pines Technical College

Crandall Eye Physicians & Surgeons

David’s Clothing

EAM Corporation

Express Employment

Farmers Insurance, Barry Crocker

Forever Young Photography by Ellen

Georgia Dermatology

Gooey’s Pizza

Gopher’s BBQ

Harris Real Estate

Harrison Real Estate

Headley Family Medicine

Hospice of South Georgia

Howard & Jones Funeral Home

Interstate Credit Union

Jesup Premium Storage

Jones Prescription Shop

K. Lyn Photography

Magic Mattress Home Furniture

Magnolia Grove Medical Spa

Mary’s Bow K

altamahacanineconsulting.com altamaha.org anklesandfeet.com jesupdentist.com

ABanksRealEstate.com bjisg.com boykinsteel.com

cbcjesup.org

jesupga.gov coastalpines.edu crandalleye.com shopdavidsclothing.com novathin.com expresspros.com

gaderm.com gooeyspizza.com

harris-realty.net jesupproperty.com jesupdoctor.com hospicesoga.org jesupfuneralhome.com iufcu.org jesupstorage.com mygnp.com

magicmattressandhomefurniture.com magnoliagrovemedicalspa.com

Mattie Genaux Photography

Mine & Yours Boutique

Murphys Builder Supply

Nephrology of the Golden Isles

NeSmith Chevrolet

New Attittudes Salon/Jesup Insurance

Overholt Construction

Partners Risk Insurance

Paul Drawdy for Sheriff

PrimeSouth Bank

Prissy Hen

R & R Auto & Camper Sales

Rayonier Advanced Materials

Renue Plastic Surgery

Robert A. Pumpelly

Royal Swimming Pools

Shaun O’Quinn Country Financial

Showcase Publications, Inc.

Smart Physical Therapy

Solid Rock Christian Academy

Southeast Georgia Health System

Southern Shabby & Chic

Stuckey’s Cleaners

The Massage Cottage

Tim’s Home Medical

Universal Electric

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Wayne County Chamber of Commerce

Wayne County Commissioners

Wayne County Farmer’s Market

Wayne Family Medicine

Wayne OB/GYN

Wildwood Stables

Wolfe Animal Hospital

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Photo by MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

Your Community Care Experts.

Trust your care to specialists who understand your needs and know all about your community. We’ve been here in Jesup for years building relationships and continuously expanding to better serve our patients.

When you or a loved one needs expert, compassionate care, turn to the dedicated doctors at Southeast Georgia Physician Associates. We’ll provide personalized care centered on your needs. And, our strategic affiliation with Southeast Georgia Health System means you’ll have access to advanced technology and procedures close to home.

& Oncology

& Oncology

Rafael Alba Yunen, M.D. Pulmonary Medicine

Stephen A. Chitty IV, M.D. Pulmonary Medicine

Abraham Cheong, M.D. Hematology

Duane P. Moores, M.D. Hematology