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Providing Excellent Care in Your Community.

When you or your loved one needs expert cancer or pulmonary care, you can trust the doctors at Southeast Georgia Physician Associates to meet your needs. Our dedicated doctors have been providing personalized, compassionate care in Jesup for years, building relationships and helping their patients live healthier lives. So when the need arises, trust your care to us.

HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY

PULMONARY MEDICINE

Southeast Georgia Physician Associates 125 Peachtree Street • Jesup, GA 31545 sghs.org Hematology & Oncology 912-588-1073

Pulmonary Medicine 912-466-5504

Abraham Cheong, M.D. Duane P. Moores, M.D.

Rafael Alba Yunen, M.D. Stephen A. Chitty IV, M.D.

A LOCAL FUNERAL HOME NEEDED BANKING WITH THE SAME GOALS

Harold Played High School Football With His Banker Who Still Never Drops The Ball.

Harold Stewart never forgot playing high school football with Randy Teston. When he decided to tackle his plans to build Community Chapel Funeral Home, he knew who he wanted on his team. Randy saw that Harold’s vision could be a big win for their community. Local businesses provide much needed services, especially when what’s needed is the human touch. Harold chose local banking for that same sense of connection, getting the answers and resources he needed without going through layers he didn’t. Harold’s teammates always knew he had heart. What he needed was a banking partner with a heart for community.

Learn more at: PrimeSouth.com

L to R: Harold Stewart, Owner, Community Chapel Funeral Home and Randy Teston, Jesup Market President, PrimeSouth Bank.

ON THE COVER

TABLE OF CONTENTS Summer/Fall 2022

13 FOREVER FRIENDS AND YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

Taylor Blanton and Jaicee Brewton share a loyal friendship and enjoy being young entrepreneurs.

21 A RENAISSANCE MAN

Dick Galloni has lived a lifetime full of fascinating experiences.

27 THROUGH CHRIST, WHO STRENGTHENS ME

Sarah Jo and Josh Higginbotham’s ﬁve-year-old son, Hunter, ba led cancer for three years but now is living life to the fullest.

34 A LEGACY OF FAITH, GROWTH, STUDY, DISCIPLESHIP, COMMUNITY

First United Methodist Church celebrates its 150th Anniversary.

Jaicee Brewton and Taylor Blanton at the home of Dane e Wingate, Jaicee's aunt, in Screven. Cover photo by Miss Magnolia Soul Photography.

Jimbo and Ceila Boykin do not believe they chose their home at 30 Eagle Drive as much as it chose them.

More than just for special occasions. 57 LOW COUNTRY STYLE

Tips from interior designer Lindsey Coral Harper.

FLOWERS & SHRUBS

Landscaping tips from Dustin Rozier, owner of The Grove.

A COTTAGE GARDEN

Glynis & Meddy Se les create a charming garden around a resoted co age in town.

PROFILES

77 LUKE HENDRIX

A bright and Shining STAR.

83 HERE WE GROW AGAIN

Hospice of South Georgia is building the community's ﬁrst in-patient hospice unit.

86 ALL IN THE FAMILY

Greenview Farms honored with Georgia Centennial Family Farm award.

90 OFFBEAT AND ON TARGET

93 BUILDING OUR YOUTH FOR THE FUTURE

Youth Leadership Wayne’s Inaugural Class.

97 COASTAL PINES TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Bridging the skills gap one class at a time.

101 HAZEL RAE

In a world of fast cars and big trucks, Alan Jones fully restored 1929 Model A just makes people happy.

105 ART & CULTURE:

Featuring Wayne County artist Laura Shead and Jesup’s new murals.

115 TALK OF THE TOWN

Food Contributor Susan Goehring provides recipes that are suitable for the most elegant aﬀairs.

Oﬀ beat Media Group, co-founded by Shep Ogden, was named the 2022 fastest growing company by UGA’s “TOP 100 Bulldogs.”

Showcasing Wayne County’s People, Places, and Events.

The Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia offers comprehensive, individualized treatments for all of your physical therapy needs in two convenient locations.

Our goal at the Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia is to provide the highest quality patient care. We pride ourselves in hiring qualified, experienced therapists and staff who will listen to our patients’ specific goals and concerns and create a customized treatment plan specific to their needs.

PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENTS INCLUDE:

BJISG PHYSICAL THERAPY TEAM

BJISG WORLD CLASS ORTHOPAEDIC SERVICES INCLUDE:

Graham Laidler, PT Clinic Director, Physical Therapist

Joseph Hires, PT, DPT Physical Therapist

Chris Goddard, LPTA Physical Therapist Assistant

Casey Weaver, LPTA Physical Therapist Assistant

Derek Tucker, LPTA Physical Therapist Assistant

Cephas Gumbs, PT, DPT Physical Therapist

Gracie Cox, LPTA Physical Therapist Assistant

FROM THE Publish

WHAT A LIFE!

Thanks to Dane e Wingate, Angie Brewton's sister and Jaicee's aunt, for allowing us to shoot the feature story photos and cover photo at her beautiful home in Screven. (Taylor Blanton, Jaicee Brewton, Connie & John Riddle, Angie Brewton, Melissa Blanton)

There is a lot one can complain about in life – but there is much more to be thankful for. Faith, family, friends and, in our case, having the best job in the world! While owning your own business can be stressful, and in today’s volatile times even more so, it sure helps when you enjoy what you do as much as we do. We get to collaborate with the most creative professionals every day. And, there are the people who share their beautiful stories of love and perseverance, pitfalls and tragedies, and how they overcome and press on. Highlighting stunning homes and unique styles. Delving into the inspired creativity of an artist. Looking back on a life well lived. You can see why we love what we do.

It takes a lot of people to publish Wayne Magazine. Writers, photographers, subjects, organizations, and friends with creative ideas are so essential. Of course, advertisers are the ones who make it possible. So, we are incredibly grateful after each issue is published and our readers get to enjoy all the wellwri en words, beautiful images, and helpful advertisements between the covers. We certainly do not do it alone!

THANK YOU to everyone who helped make this – and every - issue possible!

SHARING GOD’S BLESSINGS!

We are so very fortunate to introduce the newest member of our family. In May, our oldest son, Hux, married the love of his life, Katherine Sellers. Katherine is our ﬁrst daughter, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome her – and her family – into our hearts and lives. We also thank all of the friends and family who celebrated with us and oﬀered so many warm wishes and beautiful gifts to help them begin their lives together.

John & Connie Riddle

info@showcasepublicationsga.com @waynemagazine

Editors and Publishers

John F. Riddle & Connie K. Riddle

Showcase Publications, Inc.

Creative Director

Robin Harrison Caﬀeine Generated Graphics

Designers:

Robin Harrison, Russ Hu o

Cover Photography

Miss Magnolia Soul Photography

Contributing Photographers

Ma ie Genaux Photography

Miss Magnolia Soul Photography

Allen Allnoch/AHA Photography

Joy Sumner Photography

John F. Riddle

Davontay Wilson Photography

UGA Alumni Association

Genny Thomas Photography

Contributing Writers:

Candee Harris

Melba Benne Murphy

John F. Riddle

Susan Goehring

Jan Hediger

Lindsey Coral Harper

Allen Allnoch

Arria Bland

Candice McKinley

Prooﬁng/Editing

Allen Allnoch

K.T. McGee

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 Website: showcasepublicationsga.com

Other magazines published by Showcase Publications, Inc.: Valdosta Magazine / Okefenokee Living Je Davis Living / Emanuel County Living

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 e ort 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.

Fellowship Program

Dr Rob Spinola and Dr Danielle McKenna take the lead in enhancing the services and care they provide to the community of Wayne County They give back to the practice by educating and coaching new providers through the AFA Fellowship program. The fellow will develop a deeper and more precise understanding of pathology and its conservative and surgical treatment during this one-year position The fellow will learn techniques and principles behind deformity analysis and management They will learn how to create a surgical plan and execute all aspects of treatment, surgery, and recovery The fellow will know and be exposed to all facets of modern products, techniques, and teachings.

The fellow will be supervised directly by Lee M Hlad, DPM, FACFAS, and many other Ankle & Foot Physicians throughout the year They will have inpatient, as well as outpatient, responsibilities and will be taking supervised trauma calls Monthly surgical case reviews will improve the fellow’s techniques and understanding Currently serving in this role is Bogdan Baragau, DPM, who works at Wayne Memorial and the AFA’s Jesup location with Dr Rob Spinola and Dr Danielle McKenna Dr Baragau is board qualified in forefoot surgery and rearfoot reconstructive surgery with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) Born in Bucharest, Romania, he immigrated as a young child to the United States with his parents and grew up in Phoenix, Arizona He received his undergraduate education at Arizona State University and earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona Dr Baragau completed a three-year surgical residency at Tucson Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona After residency, he worked in Sun City, Arizona Dr Baragau is thrilled to pursue a fellowship in Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery with Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC.

Photo: L-R (Danille McKenna, DPM, Bogdan Baragau, DPM, & Rob Spinola, DPM

Rob Spinola, DPM: Committed To SERVE!

Dr. Rob Spinola of Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC has been a part of the Wayne County community for many years, providing lower extremity care to its citizens since 2004. Dr. Spinola offers individualized treatment options to correct and manage all issues of the foot and ankle, including but not limited to neuropathic pain, foot and ankle arthritis, diabetic wounds, fractures, congenital foot/ankle issues, ankle pain, circulation issues, sports injuries, skin and nail infections etc. Dr. Spinola has raised his family within the community and loves the patients he serves. “Making sure that my patients are receiving the best care possible, and that I have made a difference in the quality of their lives,” Dr. Spinola says, is what gets him out of bed in the morning. Dedicated as he is to his patients, Dr. Spinola is fortunate to have patients who are equally dedicated to him. Longtime patients Mr. & Mrs. William and Lille Milledge make a 20+ mile trek from Offerman, Georgia just to receive care from their trusted podiatrist. As a diabetic, Mr. Milledge requires specialized care for his feet. Diabetes can cause nerve damage over time, leading to a condition called diabetic neuropathy that causes tingling pain and a loss of sensation in the feet. Those with diabetic neuropathy may not feel something like a pebble inside their shoe, or a blister forming on their foot, which can lead to easily infected cuts and sores. To help manage their pain and increased risk of infection, diabetics benefit from frequent visits to a qualified podiatrist such as Dr. Spinola, who will monitor the condition of their feet.

Experienced in all aspects of Podiatric Medicine and Surgrery, Dr. Spinola is proud to have served patients like Mr. Milledge over the years. Learn more about Mr. & Mrs. Milledge’s experience with Dr. Spinola and Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC by visiting this link: https://www.anklesandfeet.com/testimonials/.

Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC was founded in July 1998 by David Murphy, DPM, and Gregory Kramer, DPM, in Waycross and Douglas, Georgia. They expanded the practice in August 2000, opening the Institute for Corrective Surgery of the Foot and Ankle Center, located at 2003 Alice Street in Waycross. In 2004, Dr. Murphy and Dr. Kramer recruited Dr. Spinola to become a partner and head of their new location in Jesup, Georgia. Since then, Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC has grown exponentially, incorporating more partners and opening several new practices.

Today, the organization proudly serves patients at more than 20 convenient locations throughout Southeast Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. Locations in Georgia include: Baxley, Brunswick, Claxton, Cordele, Douglas, Fitzgerald, Hinesville, Jesup, Moultrie, Pooler, Rincon, Savannah, St. Marys, Statesboro, Thomasville, Tifton, Valdosta, and Waycross. Additional locations include Hardeeville, South Carolina, and four locations in Florida: Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral.

WAYNE MAGAZINE has traveled thousands of miles with some of our readers. Take Wayne Magazine 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 le ers can be sent to: info@showcasepublicationsga.com or mailed to: P.O. Box 391; Jesup, GA 31598

Lorri Jones Customer Service Representative

DeAnn Strawn Licensed Agent Specializing in Personal Lines, Office Manager

Sheree Wood Licensed Agent Specializing in Commercial Lines, CLCS

Jennifer Rhoden Licensed Agent Specializing in Commercial Lines, CLCS

Anna Holland Licensed Agent Specializing in Personal Lines

forever FRIENDS

and Young Entreperneurs

Taylor Blanton and Jaicee Brewton share a loyal friendship and lifelong bond that has helped them through whatever life throws their way.

Story by JOHN RIDDLE / Current photos by MISS MAGNOLIA SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY

Taylor Blanton and Jaicee Brewton have known each other since birth. Born only eight months apart, their grandfathers were both farmers and life-long friends and their moms have been friends since high school. They say, “We really had no choice but to be friends.”

Their moms, Melissa Blanton and Angie Brewton, possibly with the idea of fostering the “pre-destined” friendship between the two, signed them up for pre-kindergarten together, where their friendship really did take root. And they’ve been friends ever since. Through all stages of their young lives, from pre-k, through years of dancing and twirling to becoming young entrepreneurs – both owning successful businesses.

They have a treasure trove of memories they share from their long years together.

“My fondest memory of pre-k with Taylor is when we both went through a biting stage. She bit me through an oven mi , and I bit her back,” Jaicee recalls. “The teacher put us in ‘time-out’, and we were playing together again within ﬁve minutes.”

Their moms enrolled them in dance at Gina's Gems by age two, where they would continue to dance and twirl together for the next 16 years. "We basically lived at each other's houses on the weekends, and we were inseparable during the summers," Jaicee said. They agree that some of their best memories were on the farm in Screven.

Taylor recalls vividly one summer trip to Jaicee’s grandparent's

Taylor & Melissa Blanton, Angie & Jaicee Brewton

house on the river. “Jaicee’s grandaddy told us not to get in the water while he went upstairs to get lunch. There were four of us on the sandbar playing and we got sand all over us. We thought a quick dip to wash it oﬀ wouldn’t hurt anything. Well, Mr. Franklin (Burch), Jaicee’s granddaddy, just happened to be on the way back down and saw us. He marched us in the house and, as bad as he hated doing it, gave us both a spanking for not minding him. His main concern was our safety. My parents never thought anything of it and would probably have done the same,” Taylor recalled.

They are both very competitive so the fact that they are now “our own bosses” makes sense to them. Jaicee owns KJ Clothier, and Taylor is a partner with her mom in Mine & Yours Boutique and also owns two other businesses, B4-You Event Design and Coastal Pour Company. They even go to the market together on buying trips for their businesses. “When Jaicee opened KJ Clothier, she started going to the market with my mom and me, and it's a tradition now,” Taylor explained.

The term "blended family" is normally used to describe two spouses who are remarried with diﬀerent sets of children. However, that term might also be used to describe Taylor and Jaicee’s families and lives.

"Taylor's family is my family. I treat them just as I do my own, and they treat me just as they would treat Taylor. I can show up unannounced and eat, sleep, talk, or cry with any of Taylor’s family,” Jaicee said to describe the closeness they both feel for each other’s families.

“We really have been through everything together: Good times, tragedies, and losing our grandparents around the same time. We have been there for each other through it all,” Taylor explained. Some of those good times include ge ing a few matching ta oos through the years, the last of which are wrist ta oos they got on a recent beach vacation.

When you spend practically all your free time your entire life with the same person, you end up knowing each other very well. So well, even when you don’t see each other or talk, you can pick up right where you left oﬀ without missing a beat.

Life events come and go. But, even when they’ve lost touch with each other, as they did for a few years when Jaicee went to college, they're always able to pick up where they left oﬀ. They understand that the most essential aspect of having a life-long friendship is understanding that they also lead separate lives. Taylor lives in Odum, and Jaicee lives in Screven. That may not seem too far away, but with the business of

everyday lives and running diﬀerent businesses, those few miles can seem pre y far sometimes. “We both get busy, but I can go for weeks without speaking to Jaicee, then we pick up the phone as if it has only been a few minutes,” Taylor said.

“WE REALLY HAVE BEEN THROUGH EVERYTHING TOGETHER: GOOD TIMES, TRAGEDIES, AND LOSING OUR GRANDPARENTS AROUND THE SAME TIME. WE HAVE BEEN THERE FOR EACH OTHER THROUGH IT ALL,” TAYLOR EXPLAINED. SOME OF THOSE GOOD TIMES INCLUDE GETTING A FEW MATCHING TATTOOS THROUGH THE YEARS.

Loyalty and trust are bedrock pillars of their friendship. "We both know we can count on each other no ma er what day or time it is," Taylor explained. Jaicee agrees, "Loyalty and trust in each other are so vital, and I know I can count on Tay no ma er what." Afterall, you should be able to depend on someone unconditionally when you’re forever friends.

NEVER FAR FROM HER ROOTS

Story by John Riddle

Growing up on a farm with co on, tobacco, and peanuts as the staple crops, Jaciee Brewton knew she always wanted to maintain ties to farming and her roots. Even as a fashion merchandising major at the University of Georgia, she always reminded her peers that "the clothes on their backs started as a seed and was harvested and went through a co on gin before it could be processed into clothing," she said. She continues to combine her passions for fashion and farming by carrying clothing made in the USA.

Having pursued a fashion merchandising degree, Jaicee knew she wanted to be in the fashion industry. Still, her work in a local boutique while in college opened the idea of entrepreneurship to her. She worked in the fashion industry for five years as a women's buyer, wholesale account manager, and marketing for Empire South and Peach State Pride brands in Athens. She even participated in a study abroad program in China, where she saw firsthand how clothing is manufactured. Seeing entrepreneurship firsthand, she "watched in awe" as the owners of that small boutique she worked at expanded. Witnessing their ambition inspired her to do the same.

Once again, she went back to her roots to plan her next step. She consulted with her late grandfather, Franklin Burch, for his help in drawing up business plans. "I owe my grit and motivation to my parents, but my granddaddy taught me that, 'if it were easy, everyone would do it,'" she said. "He was known as one of the best farmers in the southeast. That came with highs and lows. That

Jaicee Brewton

Young Entrepreneur

/ Photography by Joy Sumner Photography

“I owe my grit and motivation to my parents, but my granddaddy taught me that ‘if it were easy, everyone would do it.’”

Tips for Young Entrepreneurs:

• Surround yourself with people who inspire you

• There is always something new to learn

• Continue to be ambitious

• Never settle for mediocrity

• Remember, if it were easy, everyone would do it

came with determination.”

She used that determination she saw in her grandfather to put her love and study of fashion merchandising into practice. In March 2019, she opened KJ Clothier on St. Simons Island, then opened a second location in Waycross in 2021.

Even with a college degree in fashion merchandising and extensive experience in helping a small boutique expand, there are things "you aren't taught in the core curriculum," Jaicee said. "I've had to learn a lot on my own like taxes, inventory management, marketing, staﬃng and management, and these are things I've had to learn on my own," she explained. The most enjoyable aspect for her is being able to help her customers.

“We strive to maintain the highest level of customer service and, thankfully, we've earned a great reputation based on that. That is based on ge ing to know my customers and what they want, and that's been the favorite aspect of owning a business for me," Jaicee said.

Jaicee also enjoys helping other aspiring entrepreneurs ﬁnd their passion. “I’ve always had a passion for leadership and helping young minds grow. I consider myself blessed to be able to play a part in helping young people see what they’d like to pursue in this industry. It’s a struggle for some who don’t have a passion. And my job as an entrepreneur is to help them ﬁnd that passion.”

While Jaicee readily admits that there are failures along the way, she also believes they are helping prepare you for future success. she said. "My biggest success would be remaining steadfast through a pandemic and now inﬂation. I've been able to stay open and expand. To God be the glory. He has blessed me immeasurable. Sometimes I question myself, but I'm always reminded that He brought me this far and won't let me fail."

That positive a itude and trust in God is yet another way that Jaicee Brewton is never far from her roots.

Jaicee Brewton KJ Clothier on St. Simons Island and a second location in Waycross.

Story by John Riddle / Photography by Miss Magnolia Soul Photography

Taylor Blanton Young Entrepreneur

FROM “I WISH” TO “I WILL”

Taylor Blanton grew up in an entrepreneurial environment. Her mom, Melissa Blanton, helped start Mine & Yours Boutique in downtown Jesup when she was just 22 years old. In addition, hard work was instilled in her at an early age. Her dad, Gary Blanton, would always tell her, “If you want it, work for it,” Taylor said. So, when she decided to leave college and a career in the healthcare field behind, she didn't have to go far to find fulfillment in her own unique entrepreneurial ventures.

Taylor worked as a pharmacy technician and medical records clerk after high school before receiving her ophthalmic assistance certiﬁcation. But, even after working in that ﬁeld for two years, she still felt like "something was missing." She returned to college because she had always dreamed of becom-

ing a nurse. Her college schedule didn’t allow time to continue her work in the ophthalmology ﬁeld, so she went to work for her mom at Mine & Yours Boutique. It didn't take her long to realize what fulﬁlled her.

“I decided college was not for me,” Taylor realized. In 2018, she decided to partner with her mom in the boutique. "I started devoting my time and energy to learning the business so one day I could manage it on my own," she said. She had found her true calling and knew then she wanted to be in business for herself.

"Two years ago, a 'light bulb' went oﬀ. I have always had these ideas about what I thought would help our community and oﬀer more for the people of Jesup. Instead of continuing to say, 'I wish,' – I changed my thinking and thought, 'I will,'" Taylor

Taylor is the owner of Coastal Pour Company, B4-You Event Design, and is partners with her mom in Mine & Yours Boutique.

explained. In November 2020, she started B4 -You Event Design, and in November 2021, she began Coastal Pour Company. She remains partners with her mom in Mine & Yours Boutique.

No ma er what she's doing, Taylor stays true to her passion and drive “to bring more to our town and surrounding areas.” Something she has always dreamed of and is ﬁnally making a reality. “My mission is centered around my clients and bringing them happiness and helping bring their visions to life,” she said.

Taylor enjoys the beneﬁts of being in business for herself, including making her own schedule, having endless possibilities without anyone else to answer to, and doing what she loves every day. She also recognizes the drawbacks of being self-employed. She struggles with balancing her personal and work life, as most entrepreneurs do. "I also realize that I'm responsible for everything. It's my name on the business; therefore, everything falls back on me," she said. And her goal to make her clients happy can sometimes get her overextended. "Being a new business owner, I often ﬁnd myself overextended. I don't want to turn any business away, not in a greedy way but because I don't want to disappoint anyone."

Regardless of what obstacles Taylor might encounter, she seems prepared to handle them and credits both her mom and dad for that. "I come from a long line of hard-working individuals. My mom is my main inspiration. And my dad taught me very early on the importance of a strong work ethic," she explained. "He always said I can do anything I put my mind to and never depend on someone else to make things happen." |WM

“My mission is centered around my clients and bringing them happiness and helping bring their visions to life.”

Tips for Young Entrepreneurs:

• Be original - Find your passion, don’t do what everybody else is doing

• Do your research – bring new ideas to your business constantly

• Be consistent – word of mouth can make you or break you

• There is not a "perfect time" –eventually, you just have to do it

• It will take working at your business constantly to make it successful

CHOOSE SMART PHYSICAL THERAPY

SMaRT Physical Therapy has been servicing Wayne County since 2008. We are a local company, which does business locally. We ask our community to always consider us when it comes to your Physical Therapy needs. We treat any joint related pains, post-surgical, vertigo (dizziness), balance, generalized weaknesses, and sports related injuries. We develop programs for our local athletes, which has proven to reduce injuries and improve performance. We take pride in our one-on-one treatment approach and do our best to focus on all request by our patients. We take what is "not normal" and work to make it "normal" again.

If you have surgery, poor balance, or any pain...give us a call or tell your doctor about us.

Always remember that You have a choice...Just like you do with your pharmacy or your doctor. So, choose SMART Physical Therapy to meet all your needs and goals!

Please check out our website or give us a call for all treatments we offer, and any questions you may have!

Website: smartptga.com Office number: 559 2071 Fax number: 559 2143

Justin Garrett Pye, PT, Cert. DN, Cert. SMT

Therapist | Dry Needling | Spinal Manipulation Clayton Conner,

Joy Wilson

Manager Nick Child, PTA

A Renaissance Man

Air Force Veteran and Retired Educator Dick Galloni Has Lived a Lifetime Full of Fascinating Experiences

Commanding an Atlas F missile site during the height of the Cold War was dangerous work.

Sometimes, however, the challenges of life in a remote underground silo were more immediate than the threat of nuclear war. Like running out of food and other staples, for example.

That was the situation Jesup’s Richard Galloni once faced during a snowstorm at Site 3 of the U.S. Air Force’s 551st Strategic Missile Squadron (SMS). Dick, as he’s more commonly known, was Missile Combat Crew Commander (MCCC) at the site, one of 12 surrounding Nebraska’s Lincoln Air Force Base.

“On one of our alert tours, it began to snow on our way to the silo,” he recalls. “The next morning, we were told we couldn’t leave because of the heavy snow, so we would have to pull a second tour. This was a problem because we didn’t have any more food, coﬀee, or cigare es.”

Fortunately for Dick and his five-man crew, a local farmer wandered over to the security gate to check on them. “I told him we were fine except we were out of coffee and cigare es,” Dick continues. “He said, ‘I'll see what I can do.’” The kind neighbor soon returned with provisions in hand.

(PHOTO BY ALLEN ALLNOCH - AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY)

STORY BY ALLEN ALLNOCH

Dick is married to the former Jacquelyn Strickland of Jesup. He and Jacque (pronounced “Jackie”), who celebrated their 66th anniversary in May 2022, live on the sprawling Wayne County homestead that’s been in Jacque’s family since the late 1700s. From military stops in Georgia, Colorado, Mississippi, Nebraska, Louisiana, and Puerto Rico to international travels including Europe, Russia, and China, the Gallonis have seen much of the world.

Of those locales, Nebraska farmland certainly wasn’t the most glamorous, but Dick carried enormous responsibilities while serving there. In addition to monitoring complex underground missile systems, he wore around his neck a small box that contained nuclear launch codes.

“Thankfully we never had to [launch],” he says. “It was very dangerous work. Liquid oxygen was very combustible and did not require much for it to explode. We had to be very careful in working with it. But it didn’t seem to bother anybody. We went through an awful lot of training.”

Those were adventurous times – part of an exciting odyssey Dick has lived as a math whiz, a world traveler, an accomplished artist, a skilled athlete, and an involved member of his local community. And at 90, he shows no signs of slowing down. You might say Dick Galloni is a real Renaissance man.

Bo om Left and Above:

Dick lettered in football and baseball and was good enough to play collegiately, but rumblings of war in Korea prompted him to join the Air Force after his high school graduation in 1950.

From Pennsylvania to Puerto Rico

Dick was born on May 29, 1932, a ﬁrst-generation American with Italian immigrant parents. The family lived in Sharpesville, Pennsylvania, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age. As a teenager, he held part-time jobs that included sweeping classrooms, shoveling snow, delivering newspapers and milk, and working on a farm. He le ered in football and baseball and was good enough to play collegiately, but rumblings of war in Korea prompted him to join the Air Force after his high school graduation in 1950.

He was assigned to electronics training, even though “I had never even changed a light bulb,” he says with a laugh. But he had done well in math, and electronics proved to be a rewarding career – he would go on to work with airborne avionics systems including radar, bombs, autopilots, electronic countermeasures and navigation, on aircraft ranging from the radial engine-powered B-29 to jets such as the B-47, B-52, B-58 and FB-111.

In 1956 Dick was stationed at Savannah’s Hunter Air Force Base (now Hunter Army Airﬁeld) and Jacque was

Major Dick Galloni retired in 1971 after 21 years in the Air Force. He was stationed in exotic locales such as Casablanca.

in town training to be a nurse. The pair met at a mixer on the base and hit it oﬀ right away.

From Savannah, Dick went to the Air Force’s version of Oﬃce Candidate School and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. As the U.S. and Russia began building up their nuclear weapon arsenals, Dick was sent for training on the new Atlas F, the ﬁrst intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) to be stored vertically in underground silos. He ended up at Lincoln AFB, where he held deputy crew member roles before being assigned to head up his own crew.

Despite the ever-present danger of nuclear warheads and ﬂammable rocket fuels, the closest Dick actually came to tragedy was an accident that he was not even involved in. On November 22, 1964, a crew of three from Lincoln was lost in an airplane crash. Dick initially had been scheduled for the ﬂight, but the crew assignments were switched at the last minute. Jacque was at their home when she began receiving visits from distraught friends.

“People came over and were telling me how sorry they were,” she remembers. “I said, ‘I don’t believe he’s dead.’ They said, ‘The plane went down.’” But such was the couple’s bond by then that Jacque insistently informed her friends, “If he were dead, I would know it.”

Still, Jacque adds, “Cold War military life was a lot more dangerous than I thought at the time. Back then I thought it was just a job.”

The Galloni family, which by then include daughters, Jan and Jill, were on the move again after Lincoln AFB was closed in 1965. They were sent next to Second Air Force headquarters at Louisiana’s Barksdale AFB, then

Dick and Jacque have traveled frequently as civilians. Here they are pictured in St. Petersburg, Russia and at China’s Tiananmen Square. Other destinations include Italy (Dick especially loves Florence, he says), Germany, France, Switzerland, and much of the U.S.

On November 22, 1964, a crew of three from Lincoln was lost in an airplane crash. Dick initially had been scheduled for the flight, but the crew assignments were switched at the last minute. Jacque was at their home when she began receiving visits from distraught friends.

Above and Left:

Dick & Jacque Galloni met when Dick in 1956 was stationed at Hunter Army Airﬁeld in Savannah and Jacque was training to be a nurse. They have been married for 66 years. (PHOTO PROVIDED BY FAMILY)

Opposite Page: Art has been a passion of Dick’s since childhood, when he drew pictures on the back of his mother’s Christmas cards.

to Ramey Air Force Base in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The la er was “a jewel of an assignment,” Dick says, recalling the moderate climate and scenic surroundings.

Daughter Jan Hediger, who today lives in Jesup, says the nomadic Air Force routine “was something I thought everybody did. It was a very eclectic life.”

A Return to Their Roots

In 1971 Dick retired as a Major with 21 years of Air Force service, and the family drifted back to the southeastern U.S., beginning in Jacksonville, Florida. Dick worked two years for Gulf Life Insurance Company there, then the Gallonis relocated to Jesup, where he began a teaching career, ﬁrst in elementary special education then as a math teacher at Wayne County High School.

Next, Dick and Jacque moved to Fernandina Beach, where he taught junior high and high school math. He later served as math department chairman and then assistant principal at Fernandina Beach High, as well as

an assistant baseball coach. Jacque, meanwhile, was a school guidance counselor for more than 20 years and also ran a successful restaurant and catering business.

The couple moved back to Georgia in the late 1990s, with Dick ﬁnishing his teaching career at Camden County High in Kingsland. They returned to Jesup in 1998 and began renovating the home in which Jacque grew up. Dick says he loved southeast Georgia from the time the Air Force sent him to Savannah nearly 70 years ago: “When I came down here, I thought it was be er than anyplace I had ever been.”

Over the years, Dick has been deeply involved in the Wayne County community (see sidebar), while also enjoying the respite of their 100-acre-plus property, which includes a guest house, a greenhouse, a barn, and an art studio.

The studio is where Dick produces a steady output of colorful paintings, many of which adorn the walls of the Galloni home. Art is a passion dating to his childhood, when he would draw pictures on the back of his

The studio is where Dick produces a steady output of colorful paintings, many of which adorn the walls of the Galloni home.

mother’s Christmas cards. Birds and Oriental scenes are among his favorite subjects.

“He started painting for us in 1963,” Jacque says. “There was a painting I wanted for our new house and I couldn’t aﬀord it, so he took a picture of it and he painted from that. I don’t know what he would do if he didn’t paint.”

One of Dick’s closest local friends is Jose Juarbe, who once owned a ﬁtness studio where Dick was a client.

Jose says the relationship “quickly grew into an amazing friendship” and Dick became a mentor and father ﬁgure to him as well.

“We have spent much time together talking about his Air Force days in Puerto Rico,” says Jose. “I enjoy our journeys back in time through our conversations. I love to see his spirit come alive when he gets to share his life through our chats.”

Indeed, anyone who spends time with Dick Galloni leaves feeling enriched. As Jose says, “We need more like him in this world. I consider myself very fortunate to know him.” |WM

Selfless Local Servant

Dick Galloni has always gone above and beyond the call of duty wherever he’s lived. Here’s a quick glance at some of his civic and aﬃliations in the Wayne County community.

• Wayne County Tax Assessor Board member for over 15 years

• Master Mason for over 50 years

• 32nd Sco ish Rite Mason for over 50 years

• Right Worshipful Master of the York Rite

• Member of the Knight of the York Right Council of Honor (KYCH) for over 50 years

• Commander of the Knights Templar

• Senior Warden of St. Paul Episcopal Church

• Member of Shriners for over 50 years

• Member of Kiwanis

Photo by Allen Allnoch - AHA! Photography

Hunter Higginbotham

HIGGINBOTHAM FEATURE

After battling cancer from age two, ﬁve-year-old Hunter Higginbotham is Cancer Free and his Family Knows Who is Responsible

here was

a

man in the land of Uz

whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil,” so begins the biblical book of Job. The book is often upheld as an example of godly patience while suﬀering. Job endures many trials, never losing his faith in God, creating a path for us when we must endure our own trials.

Everyone’s trials are diﬀerent, and Sarah Jo and Josh Higginbotham are no exception. Their faith was put to the test when their son Hunter was diagnosed at 2 years old with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

Story

by CANDICE MCKINLEY / Photos provided by THE FAMILY

Sarah Jo and Josh Higginbotham with Ellie and Hunter

HIGGINBOTHAM FEATURE

Just two months after Sarah gave birth to their second child, Ellie, she and Josh noticed Hunter walking with a limp. They scheduled an appointment with their pediatrician, Dr. Eddie Thomas, who ran bloodwork on Hunter that came back abnormal. It was at this time the family learned that two-yearold Hunter had cancer. Sarah, a nurse, began conducting her own research to try to understand what was happening to her son.

ALL is the most common type of cancer in children, and treatments result in a good chance for a cure. However, Hunter had additional complications that put him at a higher mortality risk. He was taken to Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, for chemotherapy

treatment. The Higginbothams spent ﬁve days in the hospital where they were to learn that Hunter had cancer in his spinal ﬂuid, putting him at higher risk for a relapse.

“We received a lot of support from our community and from our faith,” Sarah said. “Josh and I have a strong sense of faith. They also received support from the members of Altamaha Baptist Church, where they attended church at that time.

The Higginbothams returned home to Wayne County following Hunter’s treatment. The chemotherapy he had to endure left him with pain in his legs related to neuropathy. Then, the complications increased. Hunter began having abdominal pain related to pancreatitis,

multiple infections, and his white blood cell count was very low. At one point, he was so nauseous and tired that Sarah and Josh took him to the ER for evaluation. Hunter's conditions were getting worse and his liver was beginning to fail. Hunter was taken back to Wolfson Children’s Hospital and admitted into the intensive care unit. The Higginbothams learned that Hunter had Veno-Occlusive disease (VOD), “...an uncommon, but serious liver problem. In VOD, the blood vessels that transport blood through the liver become inﬂamed and blocked, causing the liver to swell. Eventually, ﬂuids build up inside the liver, making it more tender. The kidneys may keep excess water and salt, causing the arms, legs and abdomen to swell. In most cases,

HIGGINBOTHAM FEATURE

respiratory failure, multi-organ dysfunction being kept alive by one medication that may or may not work in the end…of course, he survived because it was God’s will, we just didn’t know what His plan was at the time. At the time, we were told Hunter had a ‘50/50 chance.’”

VOD is not severe but serious VOD can be life-threatening, in which case extra ﬂuid in the abdomen puts pressure on the lungs, making it diﬃcult to breath.” And this led Hunter into respiratory failure.

“All of this took place right at the beginning of Covid,” Sarah said. When Hunter was originally diagnosed, both Sarah and Josh were right at Hunter’s side. Now, only one visitor at a time could be in the hospital to support Hunter. “Our parents were a HUGE help,” Sarah said. Their daughter Ellie would stay with Josh’s parents, Wayne and Laurie Higginbotham, in Callahan, Florida, which was not far from the hospital. And Sarah’s parents, Ben and Marti Surrency, were there to help in Jesup.

“That was the absolute lowest point in our life,” Sarah shared. “Liver failure,

Sarah decided to look deeper into Veno-Occlusive Disease and found an article with more signiﬁcant information. “He had less than a 20 percent chance of surviving his diagnosis,” she said. Hunter was given a medication that was new to the market, and it was “a waiting game” to see whether this new drug would work for Hunter. And it did. Hunter made a full recovery.

“Our faith was deﬁnitely tested but we knew everything would go according to God’s plan,” Sarah said. “We were kept strong through prayer…and through Hunter – he was so strong.

Hunter’s treatment plan was two-anda-half years long, followed by six months of maintenance. Apart from the complications from chemotherapy, Hunter went into remission one month after his diagnosis.

Hunter's dream trip was to Disney World which was made possible by the Dreams Come True organization.

HIGGINBOTHAM FEATURE

Now, three years later, Hunter, age 5, is enjoying his life to the fullest. Free from any health complications, he takes full advantage of having fun. He attends Pre-K at Odum Elementary School and takes karate lessons at World Class Karate in Jesup. Sarah said he loves being outside. “He would LIVE outside if we let him,” she laughed. And he loves playing with his sister and best friend Ellie and their two dogs Sage and Indie.

“If this isn’t evidence of what God CAN do, I don’t know what is. I’m so thankful that we were given more time with this incredible kiddo because he’s still out here making the world a better place and making me a better person every day.” |WM

LEFT TOP: The Higginbothams with Sarah Jo's parents, Ben & Marti Surrency and sister and brother-in-law, Kadie & Dylan Brown. ABOVE: The Higginbotham’s organized a celebration after Hunter’s chemo treatments to thank friends and extended family for all of their support during the treatments and recovery.

DR. PETER WROBEL, MD

• Family Medicine Specialist

• 33 years of experience in the medical field

• Experienced in diagnosing and treating vein disorders

• Began his career in Waycross in 1995

• Board Certified and is a member of the American College of Phlebology

• Married and has six children

ERIKA BURKE

• Family Medicine

• 9 Years of Experience

• Married with one child.

DR. JOHN HOUSE, MD

• Currently the Clinical Physician with Elite Primary Care

• Served as First Lieutenant in the Army Reserves

• Served in Vietnam from 1968-69

• Entered private family practice in 1971

• Decorated writer who has won two awards for Short Stories at the Southern Writer’s Association

• Working on his 6th manuscript

PROVIDING WELLNESS AND SICK CARE

Accepting new patients

If you want to find out if you are suffering from vein disease, a simple ultrasound of your legs is all you need. Your symptoms and a complete vein mapping will answer your questions and help start your journey to getting your legs healthy. Most insurance companies cover vein procedures.

EXPERT CANCER CARE IS MUCH CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

The Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at St. Joseph’s/ Candler - in partnership with Wayne Memorial Hospital –offers expert medical oncology treatments, chemotherapy and other blood related infusion services right here in South Georgia. At the Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at Wayne Memorial Hospital, advanced technology and compassionate care combine to create one of the most innovative clinical oncology programs in the Southeast. With access to infusion services in Jesup, as well as medical oncology practices in both Jesup and Waycross, expert cancer care in much closer to the comfort of your own home. While some others may claim to provide comprehensive support through their national alliance and network, our program is backed by

AJAZ BULBUL, MBBS, MD

south Georgia’s premier health system where patients have access to the nationally-renowned Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion which offers the latest in medical advancements and technologies, innovative clinical trials, and cutting-edge radiation treatments like CyberKnife.® With a multidisciplinary approach to expert clinical care and improved patient experiences, our integrated care action team which includes board certified oncologists, oncology nurses, financial navigators, social workers, and nutritionists provide every level of the cancer care expertise that you need. We’re right where you need us in Jesup and Waycross —– putting our patients first with improved access, full-service and personal hometown cancer care.

Dr. Bulbul received his Medical Degree in Medicine and Surgery with a distinction in Biochemistry from the University of Jammu in Jammu, India. He completed his Internship in Internal Medicine, his Fellowship in Hematology/Oncology and was Chief Fellow of Hematology from the University of Southern California.

JEYANTHI RAMANARAYANAN, MD

Dr. Ramanarayanan received her Medical Degree from Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute in India. She completed her Internship and was a Medical Resident at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in NJ. She completed her Clinical Fellowship in Hematology from the University at Buffalo at Erie County Medical Center in NY, and her Clinical Fellowship in Oncology from Roswell Park Cancer Institute in NY.

TIFFANY HARKLEROAD, RRT, FNP-C, AOCNP

Tiffany Harkleroad received her medical training at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, GA. She is certified by Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation ONCC as an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) and certified by the National Board for Respiratory Care as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). She is located at the office at 1706 Alice Street in Waycross.

ASHLEIGH JOHNSON, PA-C

Ashleigh Johnson graduated Magna Cum Laude from The Medical College of Georgia. She is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She is located at the office at 930 South 1st Street in Jesup.

Infusion Center: 861 South 1st Street

Jesup, GA, 31598

Tel: 912-810-2273 (CARE)

Fax: 912-810-2274

Jesup Physician Office: 930 South 1st Street

Jesup, GA, 31598

Tel: 912-810-8801

Fax: 912-810-7627

Waycross Physician Office: 1706 Alice Street

Waycross, GA 31501

Tel: 912-490-2273 (CARE)

Fax: 912-490-1034

MEET OUR FINANCIAL

NAVIGATOR: KATE NICHOLS, MHA

A cancer diagnosis can be frightening and stressful. Financial burdens should not hinder the healing process. The services provided by our financial navigator are free to all patients. As the financial navigator, Kate assists patients in understanding their financial obligations and helping reduce and offset the financial burden and expenses through financial assistance programs.

PATIENT TESTIMONIAL:

“When I was told that I would be receiving the first ICE treatment in the outpatient setting at the infusion center, I was nervous. After the first few minutes of being at the infusion center, I immediately felt at ease. The front office staff was welcoming and attentive. The team of nurses and pharmacy staff addressed all my questions and concerns during my visit. The nurses were knowledgable and provided exceptional care. I am thankful to be able to go home to my loved ones each day and still know I received the best care provided in my hometown of Jesup.”

~ Vickie Thornton

Nurses: Ashley Gravely and Leah O’Donnell

TOP LEFT: Nurses: Ashley Gravley, Anitra Jones, Candra Murray, Leah O'Donnell

TOP RIGHT: Pharmacy Team: Beth Heape, Jena Burch, June Golub

MIDDLE LEFT: Management: Marcus Nesbitt, Candra Murray

MIDDLE RIGHT: Front Office: Christine Boyd

STORY BY MELBA BENNETT MURPHY

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH at its

150th

A Legacy of Faith, Growth, Study, Discipleship, Community

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”

Hebrews 10:24-25

Sociologists tell us that the ﬁve institutions fundamental to society, listed in the order of their evolution, are the family, religion, government, economics, and education.

For pioneer and developing communities, families arrived in an area bringing their religious beliefs and practices with them and exercised that religion before they formally organized governments, instituted businesses, or built schoolhouses. Consequently, the development of churches closely coincided with the population of an area and the successful development of towns. By fortifying individuals with faith and purpose, answering life's fundamental questions, and providing an assembly of similar-minded individuals supporting one another, the local church in primitive towns braced the entire community's development and provided the ﬁrst social solid bond in developing communities.

Georgia, founded in 1733 and 126 years after Jamestown, was the last of the original thirteen colonies. Wayne County, organized in 1803, at one time was the southern border of the English colonies. Jesup, formally incorporated in 1870, wasn't even the ﬁrst county seat. In 1872, two years after the county seat was moved from Waynesville to Tuckersville and a year before the completion of the Jesup Court House, the First Methodist Church became the ﬁrst established church building in Jesup.

The infant Methodist “church” of Jesup, before the construction of the church building in 1872, began with citizens meeting in each other’s homes. In the late 1860s, Mrs. Lucinda Clary and Mrs. Matilda George, grandmother of Harry Williams, held Sunday School on the second ﬂoor of a wooden building on the corner of Cherry and West Broad Street, the mercan-

religious

The sanctuary

was the

one built, with the original, which became a parsonage, visible behind the church. A newspaper clipping (left) identiﬁes a newer, two-story, parsonage located between the church and the courthouse apparently built sometime later.

Left: Jesup’s government and

life grew together as shown in this newspaper picture.

pictured

second

Photo by Allen Allnoch - AHA! Photography

tile business of W. H. Whaley and Sons. Soon an itinerant preacher, Mr. William M. McKinney, began holding services there. Non-Methodist and early town founder Captain Willis Clary donated the land for the wooden church on the corner of Cherry and Brunswick Streets. Church services were held before the building's completion with kerosene sconces for light, a pot-bellied stove for heat, and the sermons of the church's ﬁrst preacher, Reverend W. M. Wa s, who served from 1871 to 1872. Local Baptists with no church building began joining the Methodists for a Union Sunday School. As there was no school building in town, public school classes were held in the church for an unknown number of years.

By 1887 the membership of the church had outgrown its building, and the first edifice moved to the rear of the lot to serve as a parsonage. Construction began on a new church building. Completed in 1890, the new church featured four steps leading to a small porch under a shu ered bell tower. Double doors opened from the porch into the sanctuary with 12 windows and a pot-bellied stove providing heat. Reflecting the times, pigs often rooted under the steps, and goats munched on the porch. By the turn of the century, Sunday School had an enrollment of 160.

In the ﬁrst decade of the twentieth century, the church history noted that “a endance at evening services was greater than at morning because boys and young men always took their dates” as acceptable activities were scarce for youth of the day. Another reﬂection of the culture of the

The present sanctuary’s 14 stained-glass windows are in memory of select church members, this one of Judge and Mrs. David M. Clark, early leaders in the ﬁrst First Methodist Church, both of whom held pivotal roles in the church. The history of the church is told through these windows and other memorial gifts, including a Bell Tower Bench in honor of Mary Colvin (Mrs. Gary) Priester and given by some of her high school friends, and the Pulpit and Communion Table given in memory of Charlo e Ellen Harrell, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. (deceased) Lanier Harrell

The recently renovated sanctuary in the present church, the third on the original site. As an adaptive congregation, FUMC holds two morning services, a traditional one at 11:00 and a contemporary service that meets at 8:55 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. (Photos by Allen Allnoch - AHA! Photography)

Right:

Left:

day and the dominance of church as a social activity saw the Baptists holding Sunday School in the mornings and the Methodists in the afternoons to accommodate visiting between the two churches. In 1912, church ministry and outreach expanded to the organization of a Boy Scout Club of forty members led by the Reverend Artemus Lester. Church leadership included J. H. Wilkins, J. G. Tuten, H. L. Heritage, J. H. McPipkin, S. C. Ellis, Leonard Carter, and J. W. C. Trowell. Towards the end of the decade, the church under the leadership of Ben Gibbs participated in the “Great War” (WWI) eﬀort by supporting the Red Cross, which Gibbs headed, and Liberty Loan Bond donations. Church services were suspended for three weeks owing to the Great Inﬂuenza of the day.

In the Roaring Twenties era, the church began plans for a new sanctuary with Judge Clark and Mrs. Caroline Hinkley adding the ﬁrst checks for $1,000 each at a time when the preacher's salary was $1800 a year. Another sign of the times is reﬂected in four women's appointments to the Board of Stewards: Mrs. T. G. Ritch, Sr., Mrs. J.E. Harper, Mrs. J. T. Colvin, and Miss Myrtice McPipkin. Even though women were more represented in church leadership, they were still referred to by their husbands' names.

As the Great Depression set in South Georgia, the ladies of the church assumed cleaning duties for the church, and some families “tithed” in fresh vegetables and wood for cooking and heating the parsonage and church. The question of completing the new church building was relieved when Mrs. Caroline Hinkley, who died in 1929, left the bulk of her estate to the church for the new building fund. By March 19, 1931, the Jesup Sentinel, published by church member W. B. Rhoden, featured a headline: “Jesup Methodists Complete $25,000 Church Without One Cent Owing for Construction.”

In the decade of the 1940s, the maturing church responded to the historical moment by exhibiting the commitment to service and discipleship as sermons and small group studies focused on World Peace. According to Wayne Windsong, the Woman's Society of Christian Service “participated in civilian defense activities and helped promote all phases of Red Cross work,” including bandage rolling and a ending First Aid classes oﬀered by Dr. J. A. Leaphart. Miss Lillian Nichols, a Jesup Methodist native who served as a missionary in Korea for over thirty years, was forced home when the Japanese took over Korea.

In the 1950s, a movement within the First United Methodist Church led to the founding of the Epworth Methodist Church. Unlike many church splits, the separation reﬂected the healthy population of the

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH at its

150th

Bo om: Founded in the early 1930s, the JOY Class started out as a couples’ class where husbands and wives could a end Sunday School together. The name came from a suggestion by Mrs. R. L. Walker and was an acronym for Jesus, Others, and You. Adapting to times and personal choices, pictured here are a three-generational family of Be y (Mrs. R. W.) Murphy, daughter Elaine Nichols Brannen, and granddaughter Leigh Brannen.

Back row standing: Tom Causey, Lee Ricardo, Elaine Nichols Brannen, Pat Perry, Ann Royal, Rosemary Stevenson, Fletcher Stevenson, Jr. Seated: Leigh Brannen, Be y Murphy, Louise Dear, and Louise’s granddaughter Brooke Dear

Top: The JOY Class at the time of the centennial celebration.

150th

First Methodist Church and not ideological or personality divisions. The “parent” church bought the lot for the “infant” church on the corner of Ty Ty and Third Streets, and in 1956 ﬁfty-six members transferred their membership from the church on Brunswick Street across town to the newly created Epworth Methodist Church. Since that time, the two congregations have cooperatively worked on many projects. Ironically, today, the First United Methodist Church's minister, Rebecca Duke-Barton, is married to the Epworth Methodist Church's minister, Garth Duke-Barton. The Youth Group for both churches that meets on Sunday nights is a union group by Garth, who has extensive training and experience in youth ministries.

At the 100th anniversary of the First United Methodist Church, a book of the church's ﬁrst 100 years, Wayne Windsong, published by the leadership of the History Commi ee including Madge McCann Sewell, Jo (Mrs. Ed) Powers, Sarah (Mrs. Tom) James, and Pastor Dr. Bruce Wilson and his wife. At the time, they acknowledged the “most active in the administration of

Top: Reverend Rebecca Duke-Barton, pastor of FUMC since 2018, is a third generation United Methodist pastor and the church's 60th pastor. She a ended Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. where she received her Master’s of Divinity, and is married to Reverend Garth Duke-Barton, pastor of Epworth Methodist Church. They have three children, Daniel, Susannah, and Samuel.

Bo om: One of the most active in participation is the Drop-In Class. Rotating teachers include Kenny Bryant, Rick Thomas, Bob Smith, and Gary Peel. Seated in front are Diane Murphy, Bob Smith, Peggy Smith. Seated behind are Herschel Daniel, Gena Daniel, Brenda Purvis, Mike Purvis. Standing in back are Foy and Beverly Thomas, Gail McGregor, Mark McGregor, Jan Peel, Gary Peel, Tom Freeman, Tara McGahee Whi aker, Kathy Harrel, Dave Harrel, Kenny Bryant, Vickie Freeman, Donna Jo Thomas, Rick Thomas. Jan Peel Sullivan and Herschel Daniel are third-generation First United Methodists Church members. Jan’s grandparents were Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Ritch, Sr. and her mother, Vonice Ritch Sullivan, all played leadership roles in the evolving church. Herschel’s grandparents were Mr. and Mrs. E. T. Youngblood and his parents were H. C. “Skeet” and Laura Mae Youngblood Daniel. Herschel grew up with his future wife, Gena Wolfe Daniel, daughter of church leaders John and Ila Wolfe, in the Youth Department.

the church during this era” as R. W. “Buck” Murphy, Glenn Thomas, E. T. Youngblood, J.E. Colvin, O. A. Lee, Paul Salter, Ben Park, W.B Rhoden, Randall Walker, Tindall Li leﬁeld, Logan Dent, Sam Colvin, Bill Zorn, Ronald Adams, and Charles Knight. The names read like a portion of Wayne County's Greatest Generation.

In the seeming “blink of an eye,” First United Methodist Church is preparing for its sesquicentennial. Six generations have passed through the church building and participated in similar manifestations of Sunday services, Sunday School, choir performances, Bible studies, United Methodist Women groups, and familial-centered rites of passage of infant baptism, conﬁrmation, weddings, and funerals.

As the church moved from its infancy, its young adulthood, and now its maturity, the creativity, and dedication of its leaders introduced and nurtured expansions such as Vacation Bible School, Cherub and Youth Choirs, Handbells, Kindergarten, and School of Discovery.

The oft-used phrase “separation of church and state” may apply to legal ma ers, but the church can't separate from the surrounding culture and environment in which it resides.

Not only in the First United Methodist Church or other Jesup churches but across the country, American churches are facing radical cultural and social changes that impact membership, participation, and church programs. In 1937 Gallup ﬁrst polled the percent of church-going Americans at 73%. That number was stable through 2000 when it began a decline, resting at 47% in 2020. Speaking to Reverend Rebecca Duke-Barton about the causes, consequences, and challenges of these numbers, she reﬂected on the often-forgo en realities of organized Christian religion. Any “church” is not the building or the services but a community of like-minded believers encouraging and supporting one another and teaching the following generation church doctrine and cultural values. Rebecca adds, “Church is not something you go to; it's a family you belong to.” |WM

Above: Vacation Bible School – then and now – 1960 and 2021.

Above: Youth Group Fall Fellowship Retreat

Right: The United Methodist Women Circles have often been described as the "back-bone of the church." Gena Daniel, Lynn Rice, and Tara Whi aker are shown here participating in the service project "Operation Backpack Buddies." Other service projects for the three circles include support for Tabitha's Place, Good Samaritan, Fair Haven, and local blood drives.

Above: School of Discovery

HOSPICE OF SOUTH GEORGIA, INC.

Since the building of the current administrative facility in 2011, Hospice of South Georgia has been working diligently to bring Phase 2 of the building plans into fruition and the time has finally come. Phase 2 is to provide the community of Wayne County with an upscale, state of the art, Hospice inpatient unit; featuring a 8-bed facility that will accommodate patients who are in need of GIP, Respite, and End-of-life continuous care. Not only will the inpatient unit serve the folks of Wayne County but to anyone who meets hospice criteria and is under the care of Hospice of South Georgia, Inc.

Hospice of South Georgia’s goal continues to treat each person and family that we serve with the upmost respect and compassion through hope, dignity, and love. Hospice of South Georgia, Inc. has been serving Wayne and the surrounding counties of Southeast Georgia for over 20 years! We are your local not-for-profit hospice and we are here to serve you!

1625 Sunset Blvd.

Jesup, GA 31545

www.hospicesoga.org

912-588-0080 (24 Hours)

HOME & GARDEN

Photo by John Riddle in the garden of Meddy & Glynis Settles

THAT CHOSE THEM

JIMBO AND CELIA BOYKIN DO NOT BELIEVE THAT THEY CHOSE THEIR HOME ON EAGLE DRIVE AS MUCH AS IT CHOSE THEM

JImbo and Celia Boykin had been familiar with the house on Eagle Drive for years as they had friends who lived there and were frequent guests for parties and family gatherings. Ironically enough, their oldest son, Griﬃn, a young boy then, decided to try his hand at swimming at a party once. Jimbo had to jump in, too, and Celia will never forget him walking in the door at home with soaked clothes.

Story by JOHN RIDDLE / Photos by ALLEN ALLNOCH - AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

Originally, they bought the lot next door with plans to build, but couldn’t figure out the perfect floor plan. “We were stumped as to how to build a home next to this particular house and it not look like the guest house,” Celia said. So they waited while trying to figure out what to do.

One day, their friends, the owners of the house on Eagle Drive, asked if they would be interested in buying it. Celia passed it oﬀ thinking it would never work out. Others asked them, too, and they eventually started considering it. They had sold the home they were living in on Palme o Street and had renovated and se led into a home on Magnolia Street that they really liked and where they felt at home. That is until a “sweet family” decided they wanted it more and the Boykins relented. By this time, their young family had grown to three boys and now they were back renting homes trying to ﬁgure what would be, what Celia refers to as, their “Big Life” house – the house where the boys would grow up, the “biggest years of our life.”

Then, the decision came in 2012. “I was on a beach vacation with the boys and Jimbo called and

said, ‘Decision made, we are going to buy the house on Eagle Drive and make if our “Big Life” home,’” Celia recalled. They had no idea it would be two years later when they ﬁnally moved in.

The process began with considering minor changes like updating flooring and repainting like most families do. Then they discovered structural, flashing, plumbing, and electrical issues. “Three weeks after closing I went to the house during a heavy rainstorm to check on things and found standing water in the dining room and front office which was not coming through the roof. This lead to the discovery of several issues resulting in replacing multiple large windows, replacing exterior flashing, re-landscaping, and other repairs to stop water intrusion,” Jimbo explained. Engineers were consulted from St. Simons to address other issues, including structural and design problems, replacing water damaged exterior windows and doors, addressing several electrical problems, and bringing the electrical up to code to name a few. “We finally came to the conclusion to commit to a large renovation project in order to address these items and to update the house,” he said. They did keep the front door, “the most beautiful I’d ever seen” Celia said

So, the “renovation of a lifetime began,” Celia said, as she chose to the renovate the house in her style. A style she describes as, “completely diﬀerent than most.” “Basically, the house went from a Mediterranean style home to a European Farmhouse style,” she explained.

After two years of work, they moved into the 5,000+ square foot home in 2015. The extensive renovation included raising the ceilings, a reconﬁgured kitchen and den area, new chestnut colored ﬂooring throughout, adding a bedroom and bathroom to the two-story addition, and even replacing the pool and building a pool house. Jimbo said, “I absolutely love coming home to this house everyday and for the memories that it is creating for our family.”

“We chose this house, but we also feel that this house chose us. I am just happy that we were able to make it this beautiful sanctuary embodying who we are completely. So far, all our hard work and eﬀort, while cumbersome and tiring, has been worth it. We have enjoyed watching our boys spend many valuable moments here with us, our family, and their friends,” Celia said. “I get told that it is welcoming, laid back, comfortable, and natural looking, which I consider great compliments.”

After all the hard work and the many decisions that come with renovating any home, Jimbo summed up their feelings about their decision to make this their "Big Life" house by saying, “I absolutely love coming home to this house everyday and for the memories that it is creating for our family.”

ABOVE AND FAR LEFT: As you walk through the front doors there is a living room that overlooks the pool and the back yard. This chandelier was one of two created by students at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). A coﬀee table made from a cypress tree stump is the centerpiece of the room.

IMMEDIATE LEFT: The original oﬃce was converted into a larger home oﬃce with built-in cabinets and a ladder system that reaches the extensive shelving. Layered cowhide and natural sisa rugs accentuate the desk and chairs.

"I get told that it is welcoming, laid back, comfortable, and natural looking, which I consider great compliments."

HOME & GARDEN

"The ﬂoors were a mix of Mediterranean tile, cobblestone, and carpet. We chose chestnut colored hardwood ﬂooring throughout, creating a more uniformed look. Accent rugs are used for comfort and to layer the more natural and woodsy style."

ABOVE: Celia's unique style is on display in the dining room with a wooden art piece and another chandelier that was designed for the home by students at SCAD.

“During Covid quarantine, we realized that this house was made for us to have room to spread out.”

Wooden

are carried throughout the home, including the kitchen and keeping room. A large island was added to accommodate gatherings of family and friends.

ABOVE: The original cypress wine closet oﬀ the media room is original and has a barn door that works well with the wooden motif throughout the house.

TOP:

accents

ABOVE: The media room oﬀers a hide-a-way spot for the family to relax. Wooden beams were added in keeping with the rest of the home's motif. The space under the stairs provides extra storage as well as an added place to sleep for guests.

TOP AND ABOVE: The master bedroom was basically untouched with the exception of raising the ceilings and the master bed built into the wall. The master bathroom was gu ed and the most unique addition is a tub placed on a raised wooden, farmhouse ﬂoor under a large and natural chandelier.

ABOVE: The Boykins added as many natural elements as possible to complement the stucco using wood framing and wooden shu ers. They even changed the landscaping to more of a natural look. The two-story addition was added by the original owners but expanded by the Boykins.

The back of the house was completely renovated with a new pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a pool house with a ﬁreplace that includes a pu ing green.

RIGHT:

“I absolutely love coming home to this house everyday and for the memories it is creating for our family.”

(912) 580-9817

Kramer (912) 424-6847

256-7812

Banks, Broker/Owner (912) 424-0687

(912) 614-7546

“ We don't want to sell you a house, we want to find you a Home. ”

Alexis Garrido

Katherine Britt (912)

Wynter Davis (803) 270-8363

Ricky Stringer (912) 424-9425

Jessica

April

Peggy Hickey

Alexis Garrido & April Banks Jessica Kramer, Ricky Stringer, & Peggy Hickey

Katherine Britt & Wynter Davis

Tablescapes beautiful CREATING

More Than Just for Special Occasions

STORY BY ARRIA BLAND / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLEN ALLNOCH - AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

Growing up, my mother would often set a beautiful table with a Ba enburg lace white tablecloth and fine china, which signified to me that it was time to celebrate a special occasion. My love of flowers stemmed from time spent with my grandmother, Dorothy Fender, who loved to garden and grow beautiful flowers. Because she grew up during the Great Depression, she was reluctant to use the “good stuff ” for an everyday table se ing. She always wanted to save it for a special occasion. I always wondered what we were saving it for. I vowed that I would break out the “good stuff ” and treat every gathering as a special occasion because life is a gift worth celebrating.

As a member of various supper clubs and now the Good Company Book Club, I have found that my favorite part of entertaining is se ing the table and arranging the ﬂowers. I view my tablescapes as another opportunity to express my creativity. Floral arrangements are just like paintings to me. I love weaving the colors, textures, and shapes together to create something that my guests will enjoy. I love when the meal is over, and everyone chooses to linger around the table reminiscing about the good times and everyday life. I cherish the

Tablecapes Designer Arria Bland

conversations and the laughter shared.

I love that the dining table is a place to be thankful, connect with family and friends, enjoy beautiful flowers and delicious food. I want my table to reflect how much I love the folks gathered around it and how much I appreciate them. I want everyone to know that they are special and worth every effort.

An incredible tablescape is my love language and I enjoy every minute of making it come to life! |WM

“I want my ta e to ect how much I love the folks ga ered around it.”

“An incredi e ta esca is my love language.”

“Floral

arrangements

are just like paintings to me. I love weaving the colors, textures, and shapes together to create something that my guests will enjoy.”

THE DREAM TEAM

Low Country

Style

The Southern Living Idea House on Bald Head Island, South Carolina, may be best described as southern, classy, and comfortable. It has a great sense of place and livability. One of the main reasons for that is the interior design, the vision of Lindsey Coral Harper.

“ In all of our projects, I want to be sure that our work compliments the design and architectural style of each house as well as our client's lifestyle. It's imperative our clients instantly feel at home, as we are simply bringing their vision to life. I think it's obvious that we like to use color, texture, and pa erns to bring a space to life. Layers warm up a space and result in cozy and livable rooms. We enjoy coming up with interesting and unique ideas, so you might walk into a room and say, ‘Wow…I wouldn't have thought to do that.’”

Lindsey Coral Harper’s early life was spent in Jesup where her father and stepmother, Rick and Linda Harper, still reside. 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. She, her husband Chris, and their pet Horton currently reside in Stonington, CT.

Photography by Laurey W. Glynn

tip

MIX OLD AND NEW

Mix vintage furniture pieces like the split-reed bamboo cocktail table and end tables with new upholstery. This gives this family room a comfortable and low-key vibe, yet it is still quite sophisticated. Don't be afraid to use one large whimsical pa ern to anchor your space. I balanced the family room by having one showstopper pa erned sofa and kept the other pieces in solid, neutral colors and mixed in smaller pa erns. The printed pa ern on sofa is from “Ferns” by Alan Campbell, from Quadrillequadrillefabrics.com.

tip

LAMPSHADES DO NOT HAVE TO BE BORING

Elevate your lamps by using lampshades with a fun, printed fabric. This small print works great with the room's color pale e and instantly changes the look of the lamp. Linen shades also soften the light from lamps, which helps create a soft and cozy atmosphere. The lampshades are from Blanche Field, New York & Boston - blancheﬁeld.com.

DETAILS MATTER

Another way to bring in color or pa erns is with painted furniture, like these coral side tables. The pa ern and color on these are unexpected yet still subtle. I love to ﬁnd vintage accessories like this adorable brass snail or use items that have been passed down for generations. Use unexpected details on furniture when you can. Like the fringe on this o oman, even with its intricate design, it is still somewhat casual because it is 100% co on. Having this contrasting detail really gives the o oman some real oomph. The painted coral side tables are from Fabulous Things in Atlantafabulousthingsatlanta.com.

PAINTED FLOORS

tip tip

Nothing brings hardwood floors to life like a li le bit of paint!! I really love the look of painted floors, especially in spaces that can otherwise be a li le boring. This ivory hallway goes from drab to fab by adding a unique pa ern and splash of color to the floors!! The decorative Painter, Jay C. Lohmann - jayclohmann.com.

tip

REPETITIONA GREAT IDEA

The geometric pa ern from the diamond grasscloth wallcovering on our walls is incorporated in the painted pa ern on the ﬂoor. We also used the diamond shape again in the detail on the railing. Having the diamond shape on the walls, ﬂoors, and railings ties them all together.

BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

Look no further than your backyard for inspiration. Notice how we incorporated an outdoor element in the ﬂoors by painting abstract and oversized leaves in various shades of green over the beige geometric pa ern. The ﬂoors are now light and bright and have a li le punch from the pa ern and color.

Flowers & Shrubs

The Right Landscaping Makes All the Diﬀerence

NNothing says Southern Charm more than this beautiful, custom-built home. The owners, Ben and Oscara Tyre, are excited to ﬁnally have their dream home completed. Because of their busy schedules, they knew they wanted a low maintenance landscape that would coordinate with their new, modern farmhouse style. With Natchez Crape Myrtles anchoring each corner, the baseline of the home is wrapped with Sunshine Ligustrum, baby blue Agapanthus, Red Hot Drift Roses, and an array of green fountain grasses and Flax Lilies. Adding to the home's front facade, you'll notice a large Weeping Bo le Brush tree, which also a racts bu erﬂies and hummingbirds. As this vibrant landscape design matures, it will be easy to maintain and continue to create stunning curb appeal for years to come.

Story and photos provided by DUSTIN ROZIER, OWNER, THE GROVE

Know your plant location: This low-maintenance plant combination will thrive in direct sunlight.

This large, white traditional bowl planter is ﬁlled with a Windmill Palm, Gold Thryallis, a Pink Panama Rosebush, and Red Angel Wing Begonias.

Alioscia Odora is the focal point of this distressed planter that leads to the beautiful entryway. It is wrapped with Gold Thryallis, Silver Bu onwoods, Red Angel Wing Begonias, and lime green Sedum.

SOUTHERN LIVING AT ITS FINEST

The owners asked for plant material that would be drought-tolerant, deer resistant, and a ractive to bu erﬂies and hummingbirds.

The Se les Create a Charming Garden Around a Restored Co age in Town

June 15, 2022, marked one year since Meddy, Glynis, and Madison Se les moved into their house on South Wayne Street, though from the looks of their garden it looks like they have been there much longer. The Se les moved to town for something smaller after building one house and remodeling several others in the country. They loved the house and the basic layout, but they have put their trademark touches inside and out. Nowhere is that more evident than their co age garden. Keeping up their garden is a family aﬀair. “Meddy keeps the yards, I tend the ﬂowers and our daughter, Madison, comes out and says, ‘it looks good,’” Glynis said. As beautiful as their garden

Story and Photos by JOHN RIDDLE

is Glynis says she’s not the one with the “green thumb.” “I credit my mother and Meddy’s mom as having the ‘green thumbs’ and always eager to contribute to creating and maintaining our ﬂower garden,” she explained.

They ﬁnd inspiration in their neighbor’s gardens, enjoying others style and creativity. “It’s all about what you like and enjoying God’s nature in creating a beautiful garden,” Glynis said. They especially enjoy the fountain and watching the bird’s bath, however, they keep a close eye on their cat, Sylvester Se les, who also likes to watch the birds.

As complete as their garden may seem, Glynis says it’s missing one main thing. “I just wish my dad was here to help me keep it watered.” |WM

What looks like an iron gate is actually an old bed frame that they painted and have moved it with them from house to house.

Glynis likes smaller garden spots because they are easier to maintain and easier to create focal points. The fountain is a must for them in every garden.

“While gazing balls may be considered old school, I like them.” Glynis uses them, as well as mirrors, for color and reflection.

A table invites you into the garden to sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty. A silver tray always at the ready is one of Glynis’ trademarks.

The front porch, decorated in whimsical colors and patterns, greets visitors and o ers a place to enjoy the view of the garden. A hanging candle chandelier provides a decorative touch.

legan AFFAIR AN

Please do not let the title of this story dissuade you from trying any or all of the following recipes. While the presentation in this issue of Wayne Magazine is “fancy,” all of these dishes will travel well to the beach, football tailgates, July 4th party, or other festivities. Even the crab dip tastes fabulous at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy!

Story and Recipes by SUSAN GOEHRING

Photos by ALLEN ALLNOCH AHA! PHOTOGRAPHY

Susan Goehring, Food Editor, Wayne Magazine

WARM CRAB & LEMON DIP

• 1⁄3 cup bu er

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 3 shallots, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon mustard powder

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ½ cup whipping cream

• 2⁄3 cup cream cheese

• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese

• 11 oz. can crabmeat, drained

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

• 3 teaspoons chopped, fresh tarragon

• ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon chopped, fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 325 Degrees.

Melt half the bu er in a saucepan, then cook the garlic and shallots for 2-3 minutes or until just softened. Add the mustard powder, cayenne pepper, and whipping cream. Bring to a simmer and slowly whisk in the cream cheese, a li le at a time. When the cream cheese is completely incorporated, whisk in the cheddar, and allow to cook, stirring constantly, over very low heat for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Remove from the heat and add the crabmeat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and 2 teaspoons of the tarragon. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix, then transfer to small baking dish.

Melt the remaining bu er in a small saucepan, add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and remaining tarragon, and stir until just combined. Sprinkle over the crab mixture and bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Serve warm with water crackers, toasted bague e slices or other bread alternatives.

ORANGE-AVOCADO SALAD WITH FISH SAUCE & ALMONDS

• 5 oranges, very cold

• 2 large ripe avocados

• 2 teaspoons ﬁsh sauce, plus more to taste

• ½ cup roasted, salted almonds

Cut one orange in half and squeeze its juice into a glass – ¼ cup of this will go toward the dressing; the rest you can slurp up as cook’s treat. Slice oﬀ the ends of the remaining four oranges, then stand them upright on the cu ing board. Use your knife to remove the peel from top to bo om, ge ing as much pith as possible. Slice each orange crosswise into bite-sized pieces and arrange these on a pla er.

Halve the avocados and discard the pits. Now half each half and peel away the skin. Cut the avocado quarters into chunks and/or slivers. Distribute the pieces on top of the oranges.

Add the ﬁsh sauce to the ¼ cup of orange juice and stir. Taste and add more ﬁsh sauce if you’d like, then pour over the oranges and avocados.

Crush the almonds in a mortar and pestle until some are powdery, some chunky, and some whole (a cu ing board and knife also works). Shower almonds over the salad. For pre iest results, use more than one kind of orange – naval CaraCara, or blood orange if you can ﬁnd them.

ALTAMAHA LEMONADE

• 2 ½ cups fresh lemon juice, strained

• 2 cups water

• About 1 2⁄3 cup sugar

• 3/4 cup white tequila

In a nonreactive container, such as a pitcher or jar, stir together the lemon juice, water, 1 ¼ cups of the sugar, and tequila. Cover and refrigerate until very cold, preferably overnight.

Taste the lemonade and dd more sugar to taste. Stir to completely dissolve. Serve the lemonade over lots of ice in a 1-pint canning jars or beer mugs.

TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, AND BASIL SALAD

• ½ pound fresh mozzarella balls, packed in water

• 4 tomatoes, cut into 1/3 inch thick slices and then quartered

• ¼ to 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Remove the mozzarella balls from the water and cut the balls into slices 1⁄3 inch thick. Arrange the chopped tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella slices on the pla er. Sprinkle with the pepper and salt, then drizzle with the olive oil. Using a mix of colors of tomatoes adds eye appeal.

Place all ingredients in zip lock bag and refrigerate for one hour. After one hour, place salmon in baking dish, loading all the marinade ingredients on top.

Bake for 8-10 minutes in a preheated 400-degree oven. Do not overcook.

Serve over a bed of rice with favorite vegetable. Garnish with fresh basil and scallions.

SALTY-SWEET FIG BITES

• 6 fresh ﬁgs, quartered lengthwise*

• 6-8 slices of prosciu o, cut in strips*

• ½ cup toasted chopped pecans*

• 1 cup bleu cheese crumbles*

Pepper from a pepper grinder. Use sliced prosciu o strips to wrap around the ﬁg quarters. Place on serving dish. Sprinkle with bleu cheese crumbles and chopped nuts. Top with several grinds of pepper. (May be heated in 350• oven for 5-7 minutes or as desired.)

For this batch, we used mangos and deli ham. You could also substitute country ham. Plums, peaches and apricots are additional fruits to consider. Walnuts, almonds, pistachios – all are possibilities; taste with cheeses such as goat, feta, parmesan, or gouda to make it your own recipe.

DOUBLE-LEMON SUGAR COOKIES

• 1 ¾ cups sifted all-purpose ﬂour

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2⁄3 cup unsalted bu er, at room temperature

• ¾ cup sugar

• 1 egg

• 2 teaspoons minced lemon thyme; or regular thyme

• 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt onto a piece of waxed paper. In a bowl, beat together the bu er and ½ cup of the sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, lemon thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Then add the flour mixture in three batches, stirring each time until the dough is smooth.

On a lightly ﬂoured work surface, roll out dough 1⁄8 inch thick. Using a round cookie cu er about 2 inches in diameter (or another shape) cut out the cookies. Arrange on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart. Gather up the dough scraps, roll out, cut additional cookies, and place on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the cookies with the remaining sugar.

Bake just until lightly browned on the bo om and pale golden on top, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Store in airtight container up to 1 week.

~ LETTERS TO HIS SON, EDUARD EINSTEIN 1932

Two years ago today, God closed a door I never imagined would close and opened a new door that I could have only dreamed about. While the path was winding, challenging, painful and at some points absolutely terrifying, it has led me back to my passion in life… caring for my community. For the last 14 years I’ve had the honor of practicing medicine, 12 of which have been in my hometown of Jesup, GA. After taking care of our 3rd ID soldiers at Fort Stewart in the emergency room at Wynn Army Community Hospital I transitioned into dermatology. Since 2010, I’ve immersed myself in all things skin. Medical, surgical and cosmetic skin health have been my focus for over a decade now. I learn something new every single day to help my patients receive the best

and most up to date care possible. After losing my mother in 2020, and taking time to pour into my family, I’M BACK! I’ve got a renewed focus on the important things in life, which includes you guys, my close and extended community. Introducing ReJoyce Wellness, a skin health hub with an emphasis on healthy skin from within. Instead of finding a lotion or potion to mask the symptoms of skin disease, we strive to get to the “source of the problem.” Our good and gracious Heavenly Father has helped me assemble a dream team to achieve this goal. You’re not just another chart number walking through our doors each day. You are our neighbor, friend and community member. You matter. So welcome to the family of ReJoyce Wellness, healthy skin for every generation. Thank you to every person that has walked this journey with me since March 16th, 020. Without your love, support, prayers, encouragement and sweat equity this would not be possible. Ellen Harden Ward, my dearest friend, had an epiphany of how I could honor mom and dad. She combined Royce and

Janet to create the ReJoyce Wellness brand.

My mom and dad raised me to never give up, do what is right no matter the cost, and strive to give your best each day. This office would not be possible without their example of sacrifice, hard work and always giving more than you take and loving God with all your heart. I love and miss them each and every day but know they are proud of my commitment to serve others.

ReJoyce Wellness is an office that is moving toward an integrative medicine approach to skin and overall wellness. We continually add tests, services and treatments to look at the individual as a whole, not just their symptoms. Whether it is acne, rosacea, a new rash, eczema or a preventative skin exam, we can diagnose and treat you. If you have a suspicious mole, sun damage, a cyst or anything else that requires surgical intervention we can address that as well. Frown lines and wrinkles don’t stand a chance against our Botox, Juvederm, chemical peels, microneedling, Vampire® procedures or skin care products.

To learn more about skin health or how we can serve you please visit us at rejoycewellness.com or scan the QR code below for more information.

Pamela Bell, Patient Care Coordinator & Practice Manager; Starla Sutton, LPN; Chasity Geiger, Owner & MPAS, PA-C; Angela Franco, Licensed Aesthetician

P PROFILES

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

A Bright and Shining STAR

From the pristine high school diploma he recently received (with honors), right down to the dirt and grass under his ﬁngernails, Luke Hendrix’s life is inextricably woven into the fabric of the Wayne County community.

STORY BY ALLEN ALLNOCH

PHOTO BY GENNY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

was Wayne County High’s Class of 2022 Valedictorian, as well as the STAR Student and winner of the 2022 National FFA Fruit Production Proﬁciency Award.

The la er honor comes as a result of Luke’s hard work at Eight Day Farms, a family business where he is partially responsible for servicing a 150-acre, 1,200-tree pecan orchard. In a 2021 essay for the Rural Scholars Program at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, he wrote:

“Over the years, working as a family, we have been blessed enough to revive what once seemed lost into a thriving pecan farm of 1,200 trees. It’s November, now, and there is, arguably, no busier month for a pecan farmer. It’s harvest time. We’re short on daylight and our days are long. As with most rewarding endeavors, it takes everyone pulling together to get the job done – and we often come in covered in dust and grease and in serious need of a bath.

Luke

Left: Luke, STAR Student, with his STAR teacher, Michael Kirkland, Agriscience Teacher and FFA Advisor at WCHS.

“Over the years, opening my eyes to see our eﬀorts grow bright green out of my bedroom window each morning has taught me what hard work can accomplish.” (Photo by Genny Thomas Photography)

“It’s hard work, no doubt, but one thing I know for certain – it’s worth it. Over the years, opening my eyes to see our eﬀorts grow bright green out of my bedroom window each morning has taught me what hard work can accomplish. There are not words suﬃcient to express my gratitude for being so fortunate as to be born and brought up in rural Georgia.”

Luke, the son of Lance and Emily Hendrix, learned he had won the FFA award when he a ended the 2021 National FFA Convention at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis last fall.

“That experience taught me more than anything the value of persistence,” Luke wrote in his UGA essay. “Reaching the goal I had been working toward for over a year, I realized just how blessed I was. FFA has opened the door for me to accomplish much more than just the national victory. Without it, I would not have met some of my best friends, most trusted teachers, or been able to compete in so many competitions. FFA changed the entire course of my high school career, and the direction of my college career as well.”

Luke's next big accolade was the STAR Student honor he received in March of this year. He also posted an SAT score of 1500 and a GPA of 101.456, the la er of which ranked him ﬁrst of 351 students in his class.

“I saw Luke stand out very early in his education at Wayne County High School,” says Wayne County Board of Education Chairman Nicholas Ellis. “It was clear to me early on that he was a dedicated student leader who would do great things while a ending WCHS.”

Lourdes Zachry, Wayne County High Spanish Teacher, adds: “Luke is one of the top three students I have taught in 40 years of teaching high school Spanish. I enjoyed watching him, in good humor, spar with other students as they challenged each other in class. He was always a positive force for the be erment of all.”

Indeed Luke’s impact goes beyond mere awards and numbers. He is a past President of the Class of 2022, Chairman of the Wayne County Board Of Education Student Advisory Board, Executive Board Member in the Future Farmers of America CTAE program, WCHS Student Council member, and a leader on the WCHS Varsity Swim Team. He is a leader in every arena of his life – in school, at home, at church, at work, and in the community.

“Everything from Luke’s life experiences to the way he conducts himself made him a powerful voice at

Wayne County High School,” Ellis says. “Above all things, he has the ability to inspire others.”

Luke will head oﬀ in the fall for Athens, where he will a end UGA’s Jere W. Morehead College of Honors as a distinguished Foundation Fellow. The Foundation Fellowship is considered the most prestigious academic honor oﬀered by the University. Of some 900

Below: Luke with other Jesup FFA students outside the Lucas Oil Stadium, site of the competition for the National FFA Convention. From left: Paul Purcell, LilyBeth Day, Mason Chesnut, Luke Hendrix, Lance Dawson, Alissa Archer, Kaylee Arnold and Natalie Hendrix.

applicants to the program from 16 states and three countries, Luke was one of only four ﬁnalists not from a major metro area or out of state. He plans to major in Biological Sciences through the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.

When he ﬁnishes his studies at UGA, Luke plans to follow in his father’s footsteps by practicing medicine and raising a family in Wayne County. He credits his success to hard work and determination, his strong faith in God, and the army of support he has received in his hometown. He looks forward to giving back to this community that has poured so much into him.

Michael Kirkland, Agriscience Teacher and FFA Advisor at WCHS, expects nothing but continued success for this high-achieving young man.

“Luke is the most gifted student I have ever had the pleasure of teaching,” Kirkland says. “His a ention to detail, desire for perfection, and willingness to help others have shaped him into the young man he is today. There is no doubt that Luke is deserving of every opportunity he is awarded.” |WM

Top: As a result of Luke’s hard work at Eight Day Farms, a family business where he is partially responsible for servicing a 150-acre, 1,200-tree pecan orchard, he is winner of the 2022 National FFA Fruit Production Proﬁciency Award.

Right: Luke was a leader on the WCHS varsity swim team.

Your Family Hospice (YFH) is based on a vision that Hospice is not about dying. YFH is about helping your loved ones live the best quality of life with dignity one day at a time when life expectancy is limited.

A comprehensive team approach through quality medical, emotional, spiritual and social support is what your family deserve;

allow Your Family Hospice to manage your loved ones symptoms and provide family with the support needed because…

“LIKE FAMILY; WE CARE”

Your Family Hospice (YFH) was Founded in 2018 by Florence Baggs and Melissa Thomas. Your Family Hospice is a locally owned and operated based out of Hinesville Ga. Both are local natives, Florence Baggs is from Ludiwici Ga and Melissa Thomas is from Jesup Ga. Both are Board Certified Nurse Practitioners with a combination of greater than 50 years of nursing experience and practicing medicine as Mid-level providers. Their Hospice team reflects and compliments the compassion and love Florence and Melissa provide to their patients and family.

YFH SERVICES 13 LOCAL COUNTIES TO INCLUDE WAYNE, LONG, LIBERTY, ETC. WE WOULD BE HONORED TO SERVE YOU!

Email: info@your-familyhospice.com

Website: https://your-familyhospice.com

Main#: 912-332-7969

Fax# 912-332-5364

STORY BY JOHN RIDDLE

Grow HERE WE AGAIN

Hospice of South Georgia Is Building Community’s First In-Patient Hospice Unit

Since its beginning in 1999, Hospice of South Georgia has continually grown and adapted to meet the ever-increasing need for hospice care in our community. In 2012, an office and administrative building was completed on Sunset Boulevard. This year, they are growing again. The current construction of a new in-patient hospice facility will add a much-needed level of care currently not offered in our community. Slated for completion by the end of 2022, the expansion is licensed for 8 beds with a capacity to grow to 12 beds and will offer respite and general care for hospice patients and their families.

“This in-patient unit will allow us to provide our patients with a home-like environment with their symptoms managed by skilled hospice professionals,” explained Toni Ray, executive director. “It will also enable family members to be with their loved ones while providing them, and the patient’s caregivers, relief from the daily care for hospice patients.”

The expansion couldn’t come at a be er time. Hospice of South Georgia has tripled its census in the last 5 years. Along with that patient uptick, Hospice of South Georgia has seen a tripling of their staff as well. More will join the 47-member staff to accommodate the in-patient unit including registered nurses, certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses, chaplains,

Toni Ray, executive director, Hospice of South Georgia (PHOTO BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

social service workers, as well as administrative and support staﬀ.

The $3.1 million construction has been mostly paid for through operating revenues and support from the community. A loan was obtained to make up the shortfall. According to Ray, their plans are to pay back the loan and all other related costs in the next 5 years. To help with that and the cost of additional services they hope to add, is a plan to increase philanthropic support.

A foundation has been organized to support Hospice of South Georgia, the community’s only non-proﬁt (501-c3) hospice. While donations through memorial and honorary gifts and proceeds from fundraising events have been a source of funding since their inception, the establishment of a foundation is a strategic step to focus even more eﬀorts on the important role increased philanthropy will be in the organization’s future – especially with coming changes to healthcare reimbursement through Medicare.

Hospice of South Georgia is also collaborating with other non-proﬁt hospice organizations in southeast Georgia to be

New Foundation Will Provide Strategic Philanthropic Support

A newly formed foundation is being established to support Hospice of South Georgia, Inc., by providing ﬁnancial sustainability through charitable donations and responsible stewardship. The foundation has ﬁled an application for as a separate 501-c-3 organization

Hospice of South Georgia Foundation Board Members

Shirlene Armstrong

Raymond Brown

Harley Grove

Beverly Leaphart

Monica O’Quinn

Connie Riddle

Randy Teston

Elaine Zuck

For more information about contributing to Hospice of South Georgia contact the o ce at 912-588-0080 or visit their website at hospicesoga.org/donate to donate on-line.

ready to respond to the changing world of Medicare. Historically, Medicare covered up to 100% of hospice care but Medicare is changing. A new program called MediAdvantage will be one of the biggest providers of health insurance in the future and is expected to cover over half of all Georgians by 2025, according to Ray. “This new collaborative agency will help ensure that we can care for more patients and continue to be reimbursed by Medicare. To continue to compete with for-proﬁt agencies, we must evolve and change,” she explained.

Additional services are also being planned to include palliative care and adding private duty services and a serious illness program.

“Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients

and their families facing the problems associated with life-threatening illnesses. The private duty services will be a separate part of our agency for patients and their families. The serious illness program would provide a care team to patients with a chronic illness that would include a nurse, social worker, and others to keep that patient out of the hospital by providing care at home,” explained Ray.

At the heart of all they do, the caregivers strive to provide the type of care they would want for their own family members. And, according to Ray, that is what makes Hospice of South Georgia unique.

“Our goal is to provide everyone with hope, dignity, and respect by providing whatever a family might need in time of crisis regardless of their ability to pay. We go the extra step in providing the care that our patients and families deserve.” |WM

1625 Sunset Blvd. Jesup, GA 31545

912-588-0080 | information@hospicesoga.org

Sarah Vail State CNA of the Year

PHOTO BY ALLEN ALLNOCH – AHA!

The excellent care provided by Hospice of South Georgia is more than just a mission or a stated goal – its evident in the caring nature and expert care provided by their professional health care providers. The latest example of that is Sarah

Vail, the recipient of the State Certiﬁed Nursing Assistant Award.

The award, given by the Georgia Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, is presented to eight CNAs in the state at their annual conference.

“Sarah goes above and beyond for her patients each and every day. Her loyalty, compassion, and loving nature is part of the very reason she was selected for this award,” said Toni Ray, HOSGA executive director.

“It is a great honor for me to receive this award. I am grateful and thankful to receive an award for simply caring for others and loved ones in a way I would want them to care for my family. I love what I do - it is my passion,” Sarah explained. “I truly believe God has gifted me to care for others and placed me where I need to be.”

PHOTOGRAPHY

in the Family

Greenview Farms honored with Georgia Centennial Family Farm Award

GREENVIEW FARMS, a K’Ville-area operation that specializes in ca le, hay and row crops, has been awarded the Centennial Family Farm Award, which recognizes farms owned by members of the same family for at least 100 years.

Greenview was one of 29 family farms honored during the 27th Annual Georgia Centennial Farm Awards Ceremony at the 2021 Georgia National Fair in Perry. An awards ceremony was not held during 2020, so the ceremony recognized qualiﬁed farms from both the 2020 and 2021 application years.

The Georgia Centennial Farm program was launched in 1993. Administered by the Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, it has recognized more than 580 farms that have contributed to the preservation of Georgia’s agricultural history.

Greenview Farms’ origins date to 1860, when ancestors of current owner Jonny Harris purchased land in western Wayne County. Continuous family ownership

Story and Photography by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography Story and Photography by Allen Allnoch / AHA! Photography

was documented until 1901, at which point a nine-year gap in recorded ownership began. Jonny and his wife, Toni, think the land likely was transferred through a will instead of a deed at that time, so their oﬃcial Centennial Family Farm status dates to 1910, when Jonny’s greatgrandfather, Henry William Harris, acquired the property.

Farm operations continued under Henry William Harris’s son, Oscar, and in turn, Oscar’s son, Winton (Jonny’s father). In 1942 Winton Harris established a Polled Hereford herd that continues today, making Greenview Farms the oldest, continuously active Polled Hereford breeder in Georgia. Winton Harris was a keen ca leman and farmer who was successful in producing ca le that were fed by foraging and grazing alone.

Since 1974, Jonny and Toni, have lived in the more than 100-year-old home that was built by Jonny’s grandparents, Oscar and Agnes Harris. Another family home that previously occupied the site has been preserved and moved to another spot on the farm. The original log kitchen remains behind their current home.

The Harris family today – Jonny, Toni and their son, Paul – manage their crops, including corn, co on, peanuts, soybeans, pecans, timber and hay, under the USDA’s NRCS Best Management Plans, with Paul in charge of the day-to-day operations. They also have increased and improved their ca le operation and sell approximately 150 bulls, 100 heifers and 50 feeder calves annually. Their ca le inventory includes F1 Brafords, a cross between Brahmans and Herefords.

greenview farms’ origins date to 1860, when ancestors of current owner jonny harris purchased land in western wayne county.

Jonny and Toni live in the more than 100-year-old home that was built by Jonny's grandparents.

“Our decision to cross approximately one-half of our cow herd with red Brahman bulls has proved to be an asset to our operation,” Jonny says. “More recently, we have added Grey Brahman bulls, which mostly comprise our bull inventory today. For a number of years, we have been the second largest register of Brafords in the United States. Our goal at Greenview is to produce quality ca le in a sustainable environment.”

In addition to crops and ca le, Greenview Farms produces horse-quality Bermuda hay, which is distributed across the Southeast and as far west as Texas. The farm also produces other forages for baleage, and has worked with the University of Georgia through a SARE Grant to obtain performance data to assess the value of highquality annuals for forage.

In addition to the Centennial Family Farm Award, Greenview Farms has been honored with the Georgia Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Agriculture in 2007, the National Ca lemen’s Beef Association Region II Environmental Stewardship Award in 2009, and several local awards for stewardship.

“Through the example established by my ancestors, we are continuing to leave the land in be er production,” Jonny Harris says.

Farms hold a central role in the heritage of our state, having formed the economic, cultural, and family foundation for generations of Georgians. Clearly, Greenview Farms is a deserving recipient of the Centennial Family Farm Award, and its remarkable legacy will only continue to grow.

“It is an honor and privilege to live and work the land where my forefathers lived,” Jonny Harris says. “One of my deepest desires is to know that this very land will continue to be passed down to future generations of Harris descendants.” |WM

“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

O beat and On Target

SHEP OGDEN HAS HIS FINGER ON THE PULSE OF TODAY’S DIGITAL MEDIA-SAVVY GENERATION

As CEO of Atlanta-based Oﬀbeat Media Group, Shep Ogden leads a digital media company with a client list of heavy hi ers such as TikTok, McDonald’s, Twitch, Netﬂix and Warner Music Group. While he’s immersed in that vast online landscape, however, Ogden is grounded by strong roots in his hometown of Jesup.

“My closest circle of friends and family are still in Wayne County, and have always been my biggest supporters,” says

Ogden, a 2014 graduate of Wayne County High School. “No ma er what crazy idea I’ve had, my family and my best friend, Chase Williams, have always helped me believe it was possible.”

Ogden majored in finance at the University of Georgia, with minors in computer science and new media. The 2018 graduate co-founded Offbeat Media Group with two fellow Terry College of Business alumni, COO Bailey Grady and CCO Christopher Travers. Their firm,

which specializes in building and brokering media content for a digital generation, recently was named No. 1 in the Bulldog 100 ranking of the fastest-growing businesses owned or operated by UGA alumni.

“Being the No. 1 fastest-growing company owned by UGA alumni was quite the honor and nothing I would’ve expected this early on,” Ogden says. “It has certainly opened up more opportunities for us, helped us get press, and led to

Story by ALLEN ALLNOCH

Photos Courtesy of UGA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Shep Ogden, CEO and co-founder of Oﬀ beat Media Group, accepts the award for fastest-growing business on the 2022 Bulldog 100 list.

hundreds of recent UGA grads applying to work at our company over the last few months. It was an important honor that gave us the chance to take a step back and reﬂect on what we’ve built, but also realize, we’re just ge ing started.”

Ogden was headed for big things in the digital world before he even graduated from UGA. Entering his senior year, he launched a social media marketing agency that owned and operated Instagram accounts such as @DowntownSavannah and @SaintSimonsIsland. Those accounts quickly gained large followings, which he leveraged to build a broader roster of clients throughout Georgia.

A mutual friend introduced him and Grady, who was managing his own social media marketing company while a ending UGA. The two began collaborating, which led to deals with big-name mobile apps, record labels, and even well-known brands such as MTV.

“After our ﬁrst few deals, our initial clients came back asking for more, which is when we oﬃcially started our company,” Ogden says.

Another UGA graduate, Kevin Planovsky, serves as advisor to Ogden, Grady and Travers. After launching, Oﬀbeat Media Group quickly gained traction and caught the a ention of billionaire investor Mark Cuban, who reached out through the company’s website contact form looking to invest. Since partnering with Cuban in 2021, the ﬁrm has grown from about 10 people to nearly 45 and shows no signs of slowing down.

Offbeat Media Group’s work includes a growing network of partners and brand relationships. It also develops its own new media properties, such as the show “Excuse Me, What?” which has nearly 1 million followers across social media; and invests in new technology such as virtual influencers, which is a fully computer-generated influencer with a first-person perspective. You can learn

more about this industry on their website, VirtualHumans.org.

Leading a company at such a young age has its advantages, Ogden says. “It’s surprisingly beneﬁcial to be a 26-yearold CEO in my industry. When I’m speaking with a CMO of a major brand, they realize that I grew up with social media and our team likely has a deeper understanding of these platforms than they do, giving us an edge.

“Brands come to us when they need to reach the younger generation in a culturally relevant way,” he continues. “The reason some of the world’s biggest brands trust us is because we have the proof that we know what we’re talking about. The brands that come to us are looking to do what we’ve already done.”

Reﬂecting on his conﬁdent approach to business development and his penchant for out-of-the-box content creation, Ogden again returns to his Wayne County upbringing.

“I regularly thank my parents for how they raised me, as I credit much of my business success to them,” he says. “My dad, Dan, has been an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember, and from a young age loved to teach me about fundamentals of business. I can remember being 8 years old asking him about his plan to grow his business and being able to provide my own ideas. This type of conversation was commonplace for me growing up, which I now realize has given me such a leg up when it comes to growing my own business.” |WM

Kevin Planovsky, Advisor, Shep Ogden, CEO and Co-Founder, Hairy Dawg, and Christopher Travers, CCO and Co-Founder.

Building our Youth FOR THE FUTURE

This year, members of the WCHS Student Chamber Board comprised the ﬁrst ever Youth Leadership Wayne cohort. The group, made up of ﬁfteen juniors and seniors at WCHS, participated in a variety of activities and trips to help them gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for what happens here in Wayne County daily. Students toured various government and civic buildings and organizations, a ended commissioner’s meetings and school board meetings, and a ended other county and state sponsored events. Through these activities and events, students gained a be er understanding of the county. Simultaneously, they were motivated to become more active members of the community, to work for future success and growth in Wayne County.

Members of the WCHS Student Chamber, as the ﬁrst Youth Leadership Wayne cohort, began 2022 with a tour of local government buildings and properties. Students were educated on the happenings of the city and county and were given the opportunity to tour government buildings and discuss local policies with community leaders. Mr. Nick Ellis led the day. He escorted students on their visit to City Hall, the Jesup Police Station, the Wayne County

First Youth Leadership Wayne Group Learning About How the Community Works

“We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

Tax Commissioner's Oﬃce, the Water Treatment Plant, the Wayne County Courthouse, and the Wayne County Emergency Management Center. Students were able to ask local oﬃcials questions about the management and upkeep of the city and county, all while learning a li le more of what goes on “behind the scenes.”

Juniors and seniors on the Student Chamber Board explored local education and healthcare systems in the county during the month of February. Students were able to visit Coastal Pines Technical College, where they toured the facilities and were given an inside look into what life looks like at the college. Professors and management personnel educated students on the opportunities available through Coastal Pines right here at home and gave students the ability to see ﬁrsthand what these college classes have to oﬀer. With education in mind, students were also able to participate in a roundtable discussion of our local public school system, led by Assistant Superintendent Amy Denty. Students learned more about the function of the

Story by NICOLE WINGATE / Photos provided by YOUTH LEADERSHIP WAYNE

Youth Leadership Wayne group with County Manager Ed Jeﬀords and Tax Commissioner Denise Griﬃs YOUTH LEADERSHIP WAYNE

local school board, while having the opportunity to share their opinions and experiences with issues pertinent to the school system today. Finally, students toured the new J.C. Lewis Cancer and Research Pavilion at Wayne Memorial Hospital. Students were given a ﬁrsthand look at the new state of the art facility, as well as an in-depth look at the hospital, including what is required for it to operate and serve people in Wayne and surrounding counties.

Next, students took a walk “down memory lane,” with the assistance of Mrs. Janet Royal and Mr. John Benner. Students visited various landmarks around the county, including Williamsburg Landing and the Lindsay Thomas house in Screven. Students learned more about the history of Wayne County, when it was ﬁrst se led and the progress and growth the county has made over the years. Students saw a glimpse of what life was like in Wayne County by former educators and longtime residents, Melba Murphy and James “Boot” Thomas. They learned that to know where you are going, it’s important to understand where you came from.

The students finished the year with a day focusing on agriculture in Wayne County. Mr. Mark Frye discussed with students the importance of agriculture in our county, before leading them on tours of several local farms. Students were educated on types of agriculture that are prevalent in Wayne County, and they were able to see onions being harvested, strawberries being tended, and tobacco being planted in the fields. Witnessing these processes helped students gain a be er understanding and appreciation of our local farmers and how they help sustain the food supply not only in our county and our state, but in our nation as well. Students had the opportunity to ride horses and tractors and learn about beef ca le and the scientific process behind ensuring top quality beef. As a result, students were in awe of the work that goes on behind the scenes and gained a be er appreciation for what happens in the fields here in Wayne County.

Ultimately, students gained a be er understanding of everything that goes on here in Wayne County on a daily basis. Students witnessed a glimpse of our government, how it operates and the vital role it plays in day-to-day life for our citizens. They gained a be er understanding of our education system and were able to give feedback as students who are directly impacted by and involved in our public school system daily. They were able to discover the impact our local hospital has, not only on the sick in our community, but on the commerce of our county. They learned the importance of agriculture, and how it all “starts in the ﬁelds.” And, most importantly, they learned more about what it means to be from Wayne County, leaving them all with a sense of pride and appreciation for what our county has to oﬀer. |WM

Youth Leadership Wayne Group

Seniors

Graham

Ellie

Emily

Anna

Madelyn

Kayle Arnold

Sophie Fender

Jaxon Dolan

Brad Tillman

Benjamin Thomas Advisors

Youth Leadership Wayne group with City Manager Rose Marcus

Youth Leadership Wayne group with (left) Chamber Chair Alan Volsky, City Councilwoman Dr. Pamela Shuman, Advisor Nicole Wingate, and (right) Windy Dolan, and Chamber director Deena Benne .

Windy Dolan, and Nicole Wingate

Jesup | Ludowici | Screven

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.

go coastal level up.

Bridging the Skills Gap One Class at a Time

It’s no secret that in today’s world, ﬁnding a well-paying job is important in order to make ends meet. However, maybe one of the best-kept secrets is how many of those well-paying jobs are for working in a hands-on, skilled trade. Skilled trade jobs, such as manufacturing, welding, electronics, and industrial systems, are plentiful and widely available for candidates with a strong work ethic.

There is a need for a skilled workforce across the United States, and Wayne County is ﬁghting that ba le in our own backyard. What is the reason for a shortage of skilled workers in the United States? Several factors can be associated with the rising needs for employees. One is that people are retiring out of the industry at a rapid rate with not nearly enough young workers to replace them. According to Census.gov, 10,000 Baby Boomers reach the age of 65 every day. Another reason is the view of a younger generation of seeing “skilled work” as dirty, dangerous, and physically demanding. And while that may be true of generations prior, technology has overtaken the skilled

working environment. The days of a dirty mechanic’s shop are long gone, and are now replaced with electronic, technology-driven equipment.

So, what is the answer to closing the skills gap? The hidden gem of technical college is a sure-ﬁre answer, and Wayne County has this hidden gem located right inside the community. Many times, students are taught that going to a university is the path to success. And while that may be true for some students, the four-year college route is not the ideal path for everyone. Technical colleges are the answer for those kids who are interested in pu ing boots on the ground after high school graduation.

With over 21 program areas that are considered “Tuition-Free” available for students, becoming a skilled worker has never been easier. Through the HOPE Career Grant, students can apply for funding to receive a skilled education and graduate with li le to no debt and be on the road to making high wages in a short period of time. Coastal Pines Technical College’s Jesup campus has several of these programs available to students that could mean being employed in their own community in just a semester or two. Graduating with a certiﬁcate or diploma in Welding and Joining Technology, Industrial Systems Technology, Electronics Technology, and Machine Tool Technology could mean a high-paying job is just around the corner for a potential student. |WM

Story by CANDEE HARRIS / Photography by JOHN RIDDLE

Acar enthusiast since a young age, Alan Jones ﬁrst got the bug around age 11 while helping his Uncle Jack with restoration on a 1930 Ford Model A Roadster, a sassy convertible with a rumble seat. The simple task of cleaning the brake drums and other mechanical parts of the brakes hooked him, and he dreamed of someday owning an antique car himself.

But as a teenager in the late sixties, Alan’s head turned and he fell hard for the sleek Corve e Stingray. He bought his ﬁrst one, a 1973 model, after graduating from the University of Florida and returning

HAZEL RAE

EVERYONE NOTICES WHEN ALAN JONES RIDES BY IN HIS FULLY RESTORED CLASSIC

to Jesup with his wife Lynn to work in his family’s business, Jones Drug Company. Over the next two-anda-half decades, four more Ve es followed. They included a pre-owned 1982 that was originally owned by

Hazel Rae has been featured in Southern Weddings Magazine and has been crowned “Best of Show” at an Altamaha Classic Cruisers car show.

Alan Jones acts as the chau eur for friends and family in his fully restored four-door 1930 Ford Model A Deluxe for weddings and special occasions.

his late father-in-law, a new 1990 in burgundy that he custom-ordered and later learned was one of only ﬁve built to the same specs, a 1998 that was all black, and his current one, a 2003 Millennium Yellow Z06.

But we all know ﬁrst loves never really die. With that being said, about 15 years ago, Alan decided to go in search of his own Model A and found a Tudor, a 1929 2-door model, with a plan to restore it completely. He reached out to a well-known restorer of Model A’s, Benny Bohannon, in Maysville, Georgia, about taking on the project. However, while in the process of the restoration, it became apparent that it would be quite expensive. Benny suggested to Alan that he might want to consider looking further to see if there was another Model A he would be interested in that would not need the degree of restoration that the Tudor required. Alan began perusing Hemmings Motor News, an auto trading

LAID-BACK RIDE JUST MAKES PEOPLE HAPPY.

A WORLD OF FAST CARS AND BIG TRUCKS, HAZEL RAE’S

TOP LEFT: A cross is displayed prominently on the passenger side as a symbol of the man’s faith who restored the car.

magazine that features classic cars. And he found just what he was looking for – a completely restored 1930 Ford Model A Deluxe four-door that was already completely restored. He sent an inquiry to the magazine, according to their policy, and they reached out to the owner in Peachtree City, Georgia. Coincidentally, while in Atlanta a week later, Alan got a call from the car’s owner, Phil Meyers. Alan arranged to see the car the next day and knew he’d found the one he wanted. Before he left, he paid Mr. Meyers and returned to pick up the car a few days later at the end of December 2019.

As a Deluxe Model, Alan's car has several features that would not be available on more basic Model A's. Her back seat provides arm rests for guests; she sports a dome light over the back seat and features a suitcase trunk mounted on the back. Standard features include a windshield that rolls out at the bo om to provide "air conditioning" and side window air vents. However, one of her most intriguing features is the location and design of the gas tank. It sits within the dashboard of the car and has a leveling instrument that indicates the amount of gas present. When Hazel Rae is ready to rest after a drive, she must remain cranked until all of the gas drains from her tank because the gas flows by gravity. The gas tank is above the carburetor, so the fuel must flow downhill. When the gas is turned off at the tank inside the car, the remaining gas left in the line must be used, or it will run out on the ground.

Part of the fascination with this particular car was the documentation that came along with her. Among the accessories that Mr. Meyers provided to Alan were a notebook binder containing receipts and other detailed documentation for every single step of Mr. Meyers' restoration project on the car, most of which he did himself except for the painting and engine restoration, which was done by Benny Bohannon. There was also a journal in which he had handwri en every service and repair that

had been completed, including dates, mileage, and what had been done. Alan continues this documentation process, enjoying the sheer fun of doing it.

Mr. Meyers also shared with Alan stories and magazine articles about the Model A’s life and adventures, among them the fact that he had aﬀectionately named her Hazel Rae and called her his girlfriend. Since he purchased her in 1996, they had participated in numerous classic car shows, including one in Talladega where Hazel Rae, along with the other participants, had the honor of

CAR ENTHUSIAST

driving on the iconic race track. He also drove her from Faye eville, Georgia, to Mobile, Alabama, as well as many other places the same as he would a newer car, just not quite as fast as her top speed is about 55 miles per hour. She was also featured in the March 2014 issue of Southern Weddings Magazine.

Since Alan acquired her, Hazel Rae has continued her reign as a classic diva. She’s proudly served as a newlywed getaway car for two of Lex and Joy Kenerly’s children and their spouses and has been crowned Best of Show winner at an Altamaha Classic Cruisers show.

Alan and Lynn have truly enjoyed having Hazel Rae in the family, and they always get smiles and waves from other folks on the road. In a world of fast cars and big trucks, Hazel Rae’s laid-back ride just makes people happy. |WM

HAZEL RAE HAS SEVERAL FEATURES THAT WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE ON MORE BASIC MODEL A’S.

“Imprinted on our heart is the exact moment we fell in love with the beach.”

– Judith Frenette

This piece was created for a special client who participates in my beach mini session day every year. This sweet li le girl loves the beach and so I combined all the elements she adores into a classical painting. This was done by taking her from an image from the past year and inserted her into this beach scene that I created with the individual items. To then blend everything together I added highlights and shadows and finished everything off with different digital oil painting techniques to create this “Painterly Portrait”.

Ma ie 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 Ma ie in creating works of art tailored to each client's needs. For more information, visit genauxphotography. com or facebook.com/Ma ieGenauxPhotography.

Story and Artwork by MATTIE GENAUX

Unleashing the Power of the Pencil LAURA SHEAD

STORY BY JAN HEDIGER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTIE GENAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

Pencil artist Laura Shead is a master of realism with a wonderful gift for portraiture. Give her a pencil, paper and a photograph and the result will be an insanely detailed rendering that captures the photographic image exactly. Combining simple lines, bold strokes and a keen eye for shadow and light, each mark of her pencil brings a subtle charm and sensitivity to the realism of her work. Laura’s goal is to produce drawings that are as life-like as possible that reﬂect her subject’s (human and animal) personality and uniqueness.

“I am a perfectionist,” states Laura. “I pay a lot of a ention to the details so that I can make sure that each drawing is the best I can do.” She understands that pets are cherished family members and Laura’s beautifully drawn portraits allow pet owners to treasure details distinctive to their pet – adeptly drawn fur that gives a real sense of the texture and quality of the animal’s coat, depicting the quirky bend or floppiness of ears, capturing the funny wrinkles and folds in faces, the roundness of bellies and the depth of emotion reflected in a pet’s expression. Laura’s favorite part of her job is the reaction of her clients. “Seeing the look on people’s faces when they see their pet’s portrait for the first time is the best!”

Using something almost everyone has in a drawer at home, Laura works exclusively with graphite pencils, choosing a sophisticated precision pencil as her medium and portraits as her main genre. Maybe not as glamorous or sexy as its counterpart, painting with a brush, pencil drawing is one of the oldest art forms. Over 30,000 years ago, humans ﬁrst made marks on stone or in the dirt with their ﬁngers as a drawing tool and later, learned to use sticks or bone. Eventually, they would discover that drawing tools dipped into mixtures of saliva, blood, wood ash, mud, etc., provided a good way to preserve their work. Today, there is a plethora of drawing tools available from graphite pencils of varying grades, hard

“ I am a perfectionist,” states Laura. “I pay a lot of attention to the details so that I can make sure that each drawing is the best I can do.”

to soft, to the more high-tech mechanical pencils called clutch or precision pencils. No ma er what type is used, pencils are a versatile and ﬂexible art tool. They are portable, accessible and available almost everywhere. Despite these endorsements, mastering pencil drawing techniques requires time and dedication. A strong, well-executed pencil drawing can stand alone or be the groundwork for another great piece of art. As a pencil artist, Laura’s ability to produce realistic pencil drawings that expertly copy her subject as well as give 3-dimensional life to the ﬂat surface of a piece of paper is a testament to her skill.

Obviously talented from an early age, Laura always dreamed of becoming an artist. Growing up, she remembers that her mother was constantly sketching and doodling on every available surface and Laura a ributes her love of drawing to her. Strongly encouraged by her teachers to pursue a career in ﬁne arts, Laura planned to a end an art college after high school. Despite their pride in Laura’s artistic ability, her parents worried that a career in art was a risky choice and discouraged her from going to art school, especially a school so far from her rural South Georgia home. Deeply disappointed, Laura shelved her art aspirations, refusing to pick up a pencil to draw again for a number of years. She a ended Altamaha Technical College in Jesup (now Coastal Pines Technical College) and joined the family welding business. In the meantime, she married, raised a family and later, pursued careers in business management, retail marketing and advertising.

Laura’s path to fulﬁlling her ambition of becoming a full-time artist has been a journey of many turns, detours and roadblocks. Luckily, life has had a way of patiently biding its time until she was ready to actively turn her passion into a reality. After moving to Jesup in 2021, Laura did some soul-searching and decided that the time was right to make art her life’s purpose and opened a business, The Art Shead. In addition to her portrait commissions, she’s started adult and children’s classes teaching pencil drawing fundamentals

which include lessons on the basics of composition, perspective, proportion and shading techniques. Laura insists that previous experience is not necessary.

“I hear people say all the time that they can’t even draw a stick man, but anyone can learn to draw. All they need is someone to show them how.” Laura’s business cards are particularly delightful and clever. Each is a miniature showcase of her artwork featuring a collage of her of her animal portraits and other drawings.

With over 87 million families in the United States owning pets, the demand for custom pet portraits has sky rocketed. Throughout history, the relationship between man and his best friend has been immortalized in paintings and drawings. Animals, particularly dogs and cats, have been a subject of art since the Neanderthals drew on cave walls, the Egyptians placed animal statues and carvings in their tombs, the popularity of 20th Century pictures of poker-playing, cigar-smoking dogs painted on black velvet, as well as Pablo Picasso’s series of works inspired by Lump, his dachshund, and currently, in the animation of Disney and Pixar.

Tapping into the booming niche market of pet portraits is a natural progression for Laura. A life-long animal lover and pet owner, Laura’s dog, Ginger, a Chihuahua mix breed, is a favorite subject for her drawings. Enchanted by Laura’s portraits of Ginger, a friend commissioned a picture of her much loved but aging dog and a business was born. Laura’s approach to pet portraiture reﬂects her commitment to paying tribute to the human/animal bond of love and companionship. Along with providing photos, she asks her customers to talk about their animals and, if possible, likes to meet her subjects. Laura is dedicated to her craft and feels a deep responsibility to create a powerful drawing that perfectly and sensitively celebrates that animal’s specialness because while they won’t live forever, a portrait of a cherished pet will be everlasting. |WM

Dr. Tom Smith, PT; Joy Browning, PTA; Amber Faust, CCS; Dr. Holli Stevens, PT

MURALS WELCOME VISITORS AND DISPLAY COMMUNITY HERITAGE AND PRIDE

Story and Photography by

CANDICE MCKINLEY

Jesup is becoming quite the destination to see public art and new murals which have been popping up all over town. One of those murals is the “Greetings From Jesup” mural, located next door to the Amtrak train station downtown. Public art and murals are a large part of the DDA’s master plan, completed through a partnership with the UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government.

“The focus of this mural project was to build Jesup’s appeal as a destination and promote our community as a special place to live, work, and play,” explained Molly Hall, who was the Downtown Development Authority Executive Director when the mural project was conceived. “The completed

Artist Taylor Shaw of Athens, Georgia created the ‘Greetings From Jesup’ mural, located near the Amtrak train station in downtown Jesup.

mural [created by artist Taylor Shaw] is in a prominent location for visitors traveling through Jesup on the Amtrak Palme o line between New York and Miami. Jesup is one of two Amtrak stops in Georgia. The project was funded in part through a Georgia Council for the Arts Vibrant Communities Grant.”

This postcard-style mural helps welcome visitors to our beautiful historic downtown. The DDA understands the importance of public art and the positive impact that it has on the way that the public views and engages with downtown Jesup. We are very pleased with the way that the project has turned out and hope that the community will enjoy this piece of art for many years to come.”

In addition to this colorful gem, there is another mural located at Pizza Inn. The artwork was commissioned by Pizza Inn owner Keith Middleton and his wife Toni. Toni wanted to honor the

beauty and history of the community that had so warmly embraced the family business. After painting the exterior of the Sunset Boulevard building last year, they decided to move forward with the mural project.

To achieve a genuine feel for the subject ma er, Toni knew immediately who to call. She contacted her dear friend, Melanie Herrin James, a native of Jesup and current resident of San Antonio, TX. Knowing that Melanie has many fond memories of growing up in Jesup, she asked her this question, “When you think of your hometown, what comes to mind?” Among Melanie’s answers were dogwoods and wildlife. They discussed trains and the landmark depot. Melanie did some research and found that the mo o of Jesup is “The town that trains built”, Melanie’s mother, Lee Herrin, veriﬁed the mo o with City Hall.

The Middletons then reached out to their long-time friend, artist Sim Doster, a graduate of SCAD, who lives in Athens. Sim eagerly embraced the mural project, making it his goal to bring the vision to life and honor the city in the process. He designed a classic locomotive to be the central feature with wildlife images and dogwood blossoms surrounding the train.

When Sim arrived, he was immediately impressed by the small-town charm of Jesup. As his work progressed over the next few days, and the subject ma er of the painting became apparent, the restaurant’s general manager Sam Doppke told Sim that one of the most beloved aspects of the community is the widespread support for Wayne County High School athletic teams. Sim recognized that of course, that would be important to the locals, incorporating the Wayne County yellow jacket in the painting.

In the months since the mural’s completion, it has become a regular topic of conversation around Pizza Inn. The owners and employees are

proud of the positive feedback. Doster produced an amazing result and brought to life the sense of community they’d hoped to achieve.

Keith’s parents opened the original Jesup Pizza Inn on East Cherry Street back in 1983, the year he graduated from high school. He logged many hours of work at that old location before his aunt and uncle, Jimmy and Brenda Minick took over ownership of that store and then operated it for over ﬁfteen years. Though Keith and his wife, Toni, are residents of Glynn County, Keith has deep generational family ties on both of his parents’ sides to the Jesup area.

Keith thinks completing his wife’s long-time dream of the mural project is an appropriate full circle. Not only is he continuing the tradition of his family’s restaurant business in the city, but the mural predominantly honors trains, and since his paternal grandfather made his living working on the railroad up in Townsend back in the day, it’s a ﬁ ing part to the ongoing story. |WM

General Manager Sam Doppke and Owner Keith Middleton with the completed mural, located at Pizza Inn in Jesup.

Pizza Inn mural artist Sim Doster

TALK OF THE TOWN

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

New Veterans Memorial Completed with Help from Wayne County’s Three Credit Unions

Anew Veterans Memorial was completed in November 2021 on the grounds of Wayne Memorial Hospital facing First Street. This memorial replaces the one that had been at Bill Morris Park.

Last August, Wayne County’s three credit unions came together again to support the local community. Altamaha Federal Credit Union, Interstate Credit Union, and Marshland Credit Union joined forces to support the rebuilding of the Wayne County Veterans Memorial Wall by making a joint donation of $2,500 towards the project. The three credit unions have previously collaborated to assist other community projects, such as a bathhouse for Tabitha’s Place last year in Jesup.

Cheryl Spires, President/CEO of Altamaha Federal Credit Union, said “I am always on the lookout for impactful ways to give back to our community. When I was approached about the sponsorship, I knew it was an opportunity for Wayne’s three

credit unions to show our support for the veterans of Wayne County and to pay homage to those who have selﬂessly served in our nation’s military.” Stacie Branch, President/ CEO of Interstate Credit Union agreed, stating, “To recognize and show our appreciation for those members and families that helped defend this country is so important to us. This is an extraordinary cause.” Charlie Lovering, EVP/COO of Marshland Credit Union added, “Serving those who serve our country is a deep commitment to Marshland Credit Union, as military members are included in virtually all ﬁelds of membership. We proudly serve our nation’s military, veterans, and their families. As a community-focused credit union, it is our mission to give back to our neighbors and community. We are thankful for the opportunity to support this project.”

Larry Brantley, chairman of the Wayne County Veterans Memorial Wall Board, is grateful for the support and

said, “It is so important that we honor all of our veterans in Wayne County. No ma er the service they gave, they each have had a part in ensuring our safety and our freedoms. We are so appreciative of the willingness of Wayne County’s credit unions to come together for such a needed project.”

(L-R) Jodi Lewis, Branch Manager, Jesup of Marshland CU; Stacie Branch, President/CEO of Interstate CU; Larry Brantley, Chairman, Wayne County Veterans Memorial Wall Board; and Cheryl Spires, President/CEO of Altamaha FCU.

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

Deep South Classic

Marching Competition

The Wayne County Yellow Jacket Band hosted the 2021 Deep South Classic Marching Competition on Saturday, November 6. Originally planned for Jaycee Stadium, the event was held indoors at Wayne County High School due to the weather. Eleven bands competed for the title of Grand Champion. Participating bands were judged in the following categories: Drum major, percussion, majore e, color guard, dance/drill, musical eﬀect. Glynn Academy was named

the Deep South Classic Grand Champion.

“The band staﬀ and the High School Band Boosters would like to thank everyone for coming out and participating in the 2nd Annual Deep South Classic Marching Competition. We would like to thank all of the band boosters and sponsors for their help in making this event happen. Next year's contest will be on November 5, 2022,” said DaShaun McGee, WCHS Director of Band.

Mary Nell Moseley, twirler, and the WCHS band performs during the WCHS Band exhibition

Experienced Specialists in Kidney Disease & Hypertension

WILLIAM GRUBB, MD

BRYAN KRULL, DO RAFAEL DAVID RODRIGUEZ, MD C. THOMAS TUCKER, MD

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

BBQ & Blues

The Wayne County Farmers Market held its annual BBQ & Blues event to raise money to help support the Market throughout the year. Guests enjoy great food and

live entertainment by Jeﬀ Chandler and Rhe Ammons. The Wayne County Farmers Market is a premiere agriculture market proudly serving Southeast Georgia.

Above: Nick Harris addresses the crowd. Jeﬀ Chandler (below) provided entertainment along with Rhe Ammons (top left).

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

Leadership Wayne – 2022 Graduates

Leadership Wayne celebrated the graduation of the most recent class in June 2022. The program is designed to provide a unique opportunity for leaders in the community to learn about their local community and develop leadership skills. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at 912-427-2028 or visit: waynechamberga.com/programs/ communitydevelopment

Wayne County Athletic Department Golf Tournament

The Wayne County School System Athletic Department held its annual golf tournament to raise funds to support all athletics within the school system. Winners were:

1st Place Team (pictured): Dan Shalongo, Dan Clary, Kenny Lusher, Alex Reddish

2nd Place Team (not pictured): Chase Hinson, Sid Royal, Rob Royal, Copper MartinWinner-Closest to the Pin Contest (not pictured): Bubba Walker

(front row) Windy Dolan, Kimberly Wilson, Jacqueline Hoyte, Krystal Ellis (back row) Raymond Brown, Co-Chair (LW Graduate, 2017), Fred Anderson, Keith Duncan, Sheriﬀ Chuck Moseley, Kara Lopez, April Banks, Brandon Harris, McKinley Ravenell, Dr. Bre McDaniel, Dr. Sean Kelly, Kelly Shanklin, Co-Chair (LW Graduate, 2018). Not pictured: Amy Roberson.

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People

and Events

ABOVE: WCHS 2022 Golf Team: Coach Thomas Swilley (who has since moved to another school), Aiden Jones, Bre Malloy, Ashton Davis, Antonio Juarbe, Jacob Strickland, Finley Burke, Community Coach Jeﬀrey Davidson. Juarbe, Burke, Malloy, and Jones also play on youth tours during the summer. BELOW MIDDLE: Finley Burke was awarded the lowest overall average and Antonio Juarbe earned the lowest 9-hole average for the 2022 season.

No One Has to Yell

“Fore”

The

Wayne County High School

Boy’s Golf Team enjoyed great success this season culminating in se ing a WCHS record. The guys hit enough balls long and straight in the fairway and out of the rough to win the Georgia High School Association’s AAAAA Boys Golf State Runner-up spot in the 2022 state playoﬀs. That is the best ﬁnish in a state tournament in the school’s history. Last year the team was in 5th place.

Each team qualiﬁes through region tournaments to advance to the state tournament. WCHS won the region tournament on a cold and windy day at Georgia National in McDonough by 12 shots to earn their right to play in

the state tournament. One other team advanced also. The state tournament was held at Okefenokee County Club in Blackshear, Georgia.

The scoring for the state tournament is tabulated by taking the four lowest scores of the six players on the team. WCHS shot s combined 305 on the ﬁrst day and 294 the second day.

“We’ve got some really great players. A good mixture of guys that all contributed throughout the year to our team’s success,” said Jeﬀrey Davidson, the team’s community coach. The team only lost one match in regular season play and one tournament to Lowndes County by only one shot.

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

Taste of Wayne

The 13th Annual Taste of Wayne was held Thursday, March 31 at Coastal Pines Technical College. The evening featured some of Wayne County’s most outstanding restaurants, bakers and food vendors. “A Night Among The Stars” was the theme for the evening as those in a endance enjoyed bidding on live and silent auction items, and of course, enjoying the fabulous food. The annual event is the Chamber’s largest event and fundraiser.

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

1. Alan Volskay, Sharon Courson, Elizabeth Skeen

2. Jamie & Ralph Hickox

3. Luke & Abbi McBee

4. Donnie & Ann Ray

5. Shelby Aspinwall, Michelle Brewer, Darian Williams, Amber Johnson

6. Connie & John Riddle

7. Matt & Many Hubbard

8. Nick & Krystal Ellis

9. Matt & Many Hubbard

10. Miranda Smiley, Susan Goehring 11. Ericka Walker and friend

Molly & Nick Hall 13. Sherna Lott, Pamela Shuman

Susan Delegal, Raquel Wright

TALK OF THE TOWN Showcase

Showcasing WAYNE County’s People and Events

Elected O cials Thank You

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce hosted a “Thank You” dinner at the Wayne County Farmers Market for all local elected oﬃcials. The annual event is a time to bring everyone

6 7 8 9 10

together and show appreciation for the time and energy they give for the community. Thank you to each who serve and promote Wayne County!

1. McKinley Ravenall, Iman Johnson, Clay Bethea, MoRonica Ravenall

Robins & Sean Kelly

Eydie Driggers Martin, Cathy Browning

Nick & Candee Harris

Kelly Shanklin, Mark Watson, Caleb Watson

6. Iman Johnson, Terry Thomas

7. Nick Ellis, Herschell Hires

8. Creston Groover, Emmett Nolan, Congressman Buddy Carter's oﬃce

9. Bobby Gray, Steven Meeks

10. Richy & Ginger Proudfoot, Justin & Erin Franks

Index of Advertisers

Altamaha Federal Credit Union

Ankle & Foot Associates

Armstrong Family Dentistry

B&B Concrete

Banks Real Estate

Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia

Boykin Steel & Crane

Café Euro

City of Jesup

Coastal Medical Equipment

Coastal Pines Technical College

Davontay Wilson Photography

EAM Corporation

Elite Primary Care

EXP Realty

Express Employment

Fit Miss Personal Training & Studio

Fyzical Therapy

Georgia Dermatology

GHC Hospice

GNNradio/Good News Network

Gold Star Plumbing

Grant Lewis Towing

Harris Ace Hardware & Building Supply

Hospice of South Georgia

Hungry Hillbillys Grill & BBQ

Interstate Credit Union

Jesup Premium Storage

Jones Prescription Shop

Lee's Meats

Mattie Genaux Photography

Mine & Yours Boutique

Miss Magnolia Soul Photography

Murphy Builders Supply

Nancy N. & J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavillion

Nephrology & Hypertension Medical Associates

NeSmith Chevrolet

O'Quinn & Associates

Papa John's Pizza

Partners Risk Insurance

Prime South Bank

R & R Auto & Camper Sales

Rayonier Advanced Materials

Razz Jackson Designs

ReJoyce Wellness

Robert A. Pumpelley, IV, MD

Royal Swimming Pools

SMaRT Physical Therapy

Southeast Georgia Health System

Spot On Georgia

The Grove Company

The Massage Cottage

Through Christ Fit

Tim's Home Medical

Universal Electric

Watermelon Gumballs

Wayne County Chamber of Commerce

Wayne County Commissioners

Wayne Family Practice

Wayne OB/GYN

Your Family Hospice

altamaha.org ankleandfeet.com jesupdentist.com

abanksrealestate.com bjisg.com boykinsteel.com

jesupga.gov coastalmedanduniforms.com coastalpines.edu davontaywilsonphotos.com novathin.com epcwaycross.com exprealty.com expresspros.com tobefitmiss.com fyzical.com gaderm.com ghchospice.com gnnradio.org goldstarplumbingllc.com

acehardware.com hospicesoga.com hillbillysgrillandbbq.com iufcu.org jesupstorage.com mygnp.com

genauxphotography.com shopmineandyours.com missmagnoliasoul.com murphybuilderssupply.com sjchs.org/cancer nehrologyofthegoldenisles.com nesmithjesup.net oquinninsures.com

partnersrs.com primesouth.com rrautosalesinc.com rayonieram.com

rejoycewellness.com

royalswimmingpools.com smartpt.com sghs.com spotongeorgia.com

themassagecottagega.com timshomemedicaljesup.com watermelongumballs.com waynechamber.com waynecountyga.us waynefamilypractice.com jesupobgyn.com your-familyhospice.com

Photo by ALLEN ALLNOCHAHA! PHOTOGRAPHY at the home of Jimbo & Ceila Boykin

Wayne Obstetrics & Gynecology

WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT.

DR. JEFFREY HARRIS, MD BOARD CERTIFIED

OB/GYN & FAMILY PRACTICE

DR. JEFFREY HARRIS is a skilled obstetrician and gynecologist offering comprehensive care for women in Jesup, Wayne County and the neighboring areas. He is board certified in obstetrics, gynecology and family practice. Dr. Harris offers health care to women in any stage of life, from puberty through menopause and beyond.

OUR SERVICES consist of an extensive array of obstetric, gynecologic and general health care. We provide well-woman care thorough patient education and cancer screenings. We offer treatment for hormonal and menstrual issues, menopause management, diagnosis and treatment for infertile couples and contraception and sterilization procedures. Additionally, we provide treatments for numerous breast, pelvic and urinary problems, treatment of fibroids, pelvic organ prolapse, endometrial ablation and minimally invasive laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgeries. Dr. Harris is a skilled surgeon who provides major surgeries such as hysterectomies, when necessary. We have a registered sonographer to provide ultrasounds.

Keeping you and your family safe.

Many people find out too late they don’t have the home insurance coverage they thought they did.

TIPS FOR INSURING YOUR DREAM HOME:

1. Insure your house for the cost to rebuild.

2. Make sure you’re comfortable with your liability and medical limits.

3. Consider flood insurance, especially if you’re in a flood prone area.*

4. Get replacement cost coverage for your belongings.

5. Insure expensive items separately, like jewelry, guns and collectibles.

6. Complete written and photo inventories of all your stuff.

7. Complete a Personal and Family Record.

8. Talk to a rep about other coverages you might need.

9. Find out what discounts you qualify for.

WE ASK QUESTIONS. WE HELP YOU FIGURE OUT WHAT YOU NEED. WE TAKE CARE OF YOU.

SHAUN O’QUINN, RICP FINANCIAL REPRESENTATIVE

212 S 1st Street Suite 1 Jesup, GA 31545-1137

shaun@oquinninsures.com www.oquinninsures.com 912-385-1000

Back row: Shaun O’Quinn, Owner; Brittany Yeomans, Office Manager/Agent

Front row: Abby Groover, Administrative Assistant; Laura-Kate Roberson, Office Assistant; Nicki Smith, Agent