Statesboro Magazine September/October 2015

September October 2015

Priceless

SOCCER

One Team

One Dream

Bulloch’s Fresh Crop Of Young Farmers

Welcome Leadership Georgia Class of 2015

Your Community Bank 201 N. Main Street Statesboro, GA 30458

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912-489-2600

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FROM THE EDITOR

I

Established March 1, 2000

Jenny Starling Foss Editor

Joe McGlamery Publisher

I can remember when I arrived at Georgia Southern in 1981, basketball was it.

Basketball players were the big men on campus and the Homecoming ‘court’ was Hanner Fieldhouse. In just one year that all changed when Erk Russell arrived to re-start a collegiate football program at Southern. A single announcement that changed the landscape of Statesboro and Georgia Southern.

Just recently, another earth-moving sports announcement has been made by long-time Statesboro resident, Darin Van Tassell and his partner Jeremy Aven. They’re bringing a semi-professional soccer franchise to Statesboro. That’s right, by next summer pro-level soccer players will be taking to the soccer complex at Georgia Southern to begin another fantastic journey into world-class competition. I say world class because soccer is the world’s “football.”

We’re pleased to welcome the Leadership Georgia Class of 2015 to Statesboro. Their visit will mark the first time the group has been here since 1998. A lot has changed since then and we’re eager to show these state leaders how we do things in Bulloch County. There’s more about their visit and the members of the class starting on page 24.

Thanks to Blanchard Equipment for partnering with us to bring you Statesboro Magazine’s 2015 Young Farmers. We’ve chosen a sampling of young farmers from across Bulloch County to showcase how agriculture is still the number one industry in our area. These young farmers, while embracing the continuation of the family farm, bring innovation and new technology to the industry in exciting ways.

Congratulations to the Downtown Rotary Club for celebrating 20 years of service to the community. We take a look back at the club’s beginning and history, plus past presidents and charter members. A keep sake remembrance of “Service above Self ” from a stellar group of community leaders.

Fall is upon us! What better time to look at the rules for hunting and fishing including licensing, game seasons, limits, and safety measures to make your outdoor excursions safe and enjoyable during this weather-perfect time of year.

Now that it’s a little cooler plan to get outside and enjoy the many fairs and festivals this fall. Maybe I’ll see you at the Portal Turpentine Festival or the Great Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair!

September October 2015

Priceless

About the Cover Meet Darin Van Tassell and Jeremy Aven owners of Statesboro’s latest sports franchise, a Premier Development League (PSL) soccer team. This semi-pro team is guaranteed to bring soccer to a whole new level.

Just for fun, there’s a contest to name the team and pick a mascot at www.statesboropdl.com. Team try-outs begin in January. The ____________ take to the field May 2016. Photographed by award-winning photographer Frank Fortune.

4 • Statesboro Magazine

SOCCER

One Team One Dream

Bulloch’s Fresh Crop

OF YOUNG FARMERS

Welcome Leadership GEORGIA CLASS OF 2015

Reagan Daly General Manager

Hunter McCumber Art Director

Erica Sellers Advertising & Marketing Director

Frank Fortune Contributing Photographers Statesboro Magazine is proudly produced by:

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, PLEASE E-MAIL: esellers@StatesboroMagazine.com FOR EDITORIAL QUESTIONS, PLEASE E-MAIL: editor@StatesboroMagazine.com MAILING ADDRESS: PHYSICAL ADDRESS: P. O. Box 1084 16 Simmons Statesboro, GA Shopping Center 30459 Statesboro, GA 30458 p: 912.489.2181 f: 912.489.8613 Circulation Statesboro Magazine is published bi-monthly (six issues a year) at a $20.00 annual subscription rate

by Statesboro Publishing Company, Inc. Standard postage paid at Statesboro, GA. To subscribe, email Statesboro Magazine General Manager, Reagan Daly at rdaly@StatesboroMagazine.com or call 912.489.2181. The cover and contents of Statesboro Magazine are fully protected by copyright laws of the United States and may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Statesboro Magazine. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials. Such materials will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Address letters and editorial contributions to Statesboro Magazine, P.O. Box 1084, Statesboro, GA 30459. Copyright © 2015 by Statesboro Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Featured Columnists OGEECHEE TECH A Bulloch County native, Barry is Vice President for College Advancement at Ogeechee Technical College, where his oversight includes public relations, marketing, and the Ogeechee Technical College Foundation, Inc. He is active in several local organizations, including the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Statesboro Kiwanis Club.

STATESBORO CVB Heidi Jeffers is the Executive Director of the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has been with the CVB for five years promoting Statesboro as great place for visitors and tourist alike. She has over 25 years of economic development experience in logistics, industrial, retail, commercial and tourism development.

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From Eagle Nation is a column brought to you by Georgia Southern University, where we cherish our place in the larger Statesboro community. In each issue, we hope to bring interesting and informative stories to the readers of Statesboro Magazine.

Doy Cave is the Marketing Content Manager in the Office of Marketing and Communications at the University, and resides with his family in Statesboro.

SPIRITUAL PATHWAYS Discover Interactive Content

ADVERTISERS AUGMENTED REALIT Y INDEX Statesboro Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.......50 Sea Island Bank............................................... 68

Bill Perry grew up in Live Oak, Florida, a small town just south of Valdosta, GA. After graduating from Stetson University, he earned three degrees from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 2004, he retired as pastor of First Baptist Church of Statesboro after serving that congregation for 22 years. He and his wife, Margaret, registrar of Statesboro High School before her retirement in 2005, have two daughters, five grandsons, and one granddaughter. Bill has been very much involved in community life in Statesboro. He is an avid reader and has been a runner since 1973.

THE VIEW FROM HERE Ric Mandes, a popular essayist, retired after 27 years as Director of Public Relations and Development for Georgia Southern. His memories about growing up and living in South Georgia inspire his writings. He’s a published author and former newspaper columnist for the AJC. September/October • 5

26 13 33

6 • Statesboro Magazine

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38

Sporting Life

13 Ball in Play

It Starts Here!

Wr i t t en b y J e n n y S ta rl i n g F o ss Phot og r a p h y b y F ra n k F o rtu n e & T he U ni t e d S o c c e r L e a g u e

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Special Sections

46 Partners in Progress 48 Fairs & Festivals

From the Farm

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

19 2015 Bulloch County

The Write Place

Young Farmers

Written by Jenny Starling Foss.....................................................

Wr i t t en b y J e n n y S ta rl i n g F o ss

Ogeechee Technical College

Phot og r a p h y b y F ra n k F o rtu n e

Written by Barry Turner...............................................................

Visit Statesboro!

Southern Hospitality

26 Growing Leaders

Leadership Georgia 2015 Visits Statesboro!

Writte n by J e n n y S t a r l i n g F os s P h o to gra p h y b y L e a d e r s h i p Ge or g i a

Written by Heidi Jeffers..............................................................

53 55

True Blue Written by Doy Cave....................................................................

The Spiritual Pathway Written by Rev. Dr. H. William Perry.............................................

The View from Here Written by Ric Mandes................................................................

51

57 61

65

Sporting Life

IN EVERY ISSUE

33 The Right to

From the Editor...................................................................

4

Calendar of Events..............................................................

8

Hunt & Fish

Writte n by J e n n y S t a r l i n g F os s

Historic District

38 Downtown Rotary

Celebrating 20 Years

Writte n by J e n n y S t a r l i n g F oss

News & Notes................................................................

10

Look Around....................................................................

62

Transitions........................................................................

66

September/October • 7

Calendar

September Sunday

monday

Tuesday 1

Wednesday 2

Thursday 3

Friday 4

Saturday 5

First Friday Taste of Downtown 5 PM – 8 PM

6

7

8

9

10

1111 That Georgia Rhythm Live Concert!

7:30 p.m.

Averitt Center

Labor Day Paint the Town Blue Week-long Celebration

13

14

15 Day for Southern

20 20

21 21

22

16

28

The Boarding House Reach Averitt STARS 2:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

8 • Statesboro Magazine

29

18 Ole Scarecrow Medicine Show 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Third Grade Matinees Emma Kelly Theater

Boys & Girls Club Steak & Burger Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Nessmith-Lane Center

23 23

24

25

Tales From the Tomb 6:00 p.m.

Eastside Cemetery

Susan Orlean, Author Fries Lecture Series 7 PM GSU PAC

27

17

30

The Boarding House Reach Dinner Theater Averitt STARS 5:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

Main Street Farmers Market Every Saturday 9 AM-12:30 PM Charlie Olliff Square Downtown

12 12

GS vs Western Michigan 6:00 p.m.

Paulson Stadium

19

GS vs The Citadel 6:00 p.m.

Paulson Stadium

26 The Boarding House Reach Dinner Theater Averitt STARS 5:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

Calendar

October Sunday

monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday 1

Friday

Saturday

2

3

First Friday AG Night Out 5:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m

4

5

6

7

8

9 Aesop’s Fables Youth Theater 7:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

11 11

12 12

13 13

14

15

16

Harry Hughes in Speak Like Poe 7:30 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

10 Aesop’s Fables Youth Theater 7:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

17

Columbus Day Columbus Day

GS vs New Mexico State 6:00 p.m.

Paulson Stadium

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19

20

21

22

23 23

27

28

29

30

24 24

Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair Oct. 19th – 24th

25

26

Rocky Horror Picture Show 7:30 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

Rocky Horror Picture Show 7:30 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

GS vs Texas State 7:30 p.m.

Paulson Stadium

Halloween Concert Youth Chorale 3:00 p.m.

Emma Kelly Theater

September/October • 9

News & Notes

Sponsored by:

J

The Johnson Firm, P.C. Attorneys & Counselors

Y O U H AV E A C H O I C E Attorney Francys Johnson

www.francysjohnson.com | 912.225.1600 | 51 East Main Street

Doing Justice, Loving Mercy, Walking Humbly.

— Micah 6:8

Archibald Bulloch Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Presents Annual Awards

ROTC Awards Winners: (L-R) Martha Wells, Regent; Lt. Commander Gary Morea, GSU ROTC; Dallas Danielle Brown, SHS; Lt. Commander Brian Knox, SHS ROTC; Lativa De Ja Demps, SEB; Major Jeff Odegaard, SEB ROTC; Martha Ray, National Defense Chairman. (Not pictured: Leah Anderson, GSU).

DAR Essay Contest Winners: (L-R) DAR Essay Contest Chairman Marie Woodward; Katie Dickerson, 5th Grade Julia P. Bryant Elementary; Jonah Jones, 6th Grade Southeast Bulloch Middle; Jay Cook, BB&T (Sponsor); Ansley Whitlock, 7th Grade Bulloch Academy; Lauren Akers, 8th Grade Bulloch Academy; Martha Wells, Regent.

DAR Scholarship Winners. (L-R) Martha Wells, Regent; Brock Neal, Bible Baptist Academy; Lee Powell Waters, Bulloch Academy; Benjy Lewis, Asst. Dir. Charter Conservatory; Sarai Sanchez Reyes, Portal High; Mollie Cromley, Southeast Bulloch High; David William Lattner, Jr., Trinity Christian School; Regan Elaine Thomas, Statesboro High; Trish Tootle & Faye Ruarks, Farmers & Merchants Bank (Sponsor); DAR Scholarship Chairman Anne Allen. (Not pictured: Myranda Boley, Charter Conservatory).

ROTC Awards Distinctive medals are presented yearly by the Archibald Bulloch Chapter of the NSDAR to recognize outstanding ROTC participants from local high schools and universities. The medals and campaign bars are given to graduating seniors, chosen by their commanding officers and principals.

The students have demonstrated loyalty and patriotism toward the U.S.A. and have earned a stellar record of military and scholastic achievement.

NSDAR Essay Contest Each year, the Archibald Bulloch Chapter NSDAR sponsors an essay contest for students in grades 5th – 8th. This is a national contest with history related topics which encourages students to do independent research and creative writing. This year’s topic was “A Child’s Journey through Ellis Island.” Over 160 essays were submitted representing six Bulloch County Schools.

10 • Statesboro Magazine

NSDAR Good Citizens Award The purpose of the Good Citizens Program is to encourage and reward seniors from each public and private high school who have demonstrated qualities of a good citizen including dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Selected students are invited to participate in the NSDAR Good Citizen scholarship contest by completing a two-part process. In Part 1 the student must describe how he or she has tried to demonstrate these qualities, provide a school transcript, and two recommendations. In Part 2 the student is required to write a timed essay without assistance of any reference materials under the supervision of a faculty member. This year’s essay title was “Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It.”

Lee, Hill and Johnston Insurors recognized by Frankenmuth Insurance & Grange Insurance

(L-R) Pratt Hill, Vice President; Mitchell Hill, Commercial Lines Producer; John Lee, President.

Frankenmuth Insurance recently recognized Lee, Hill and Johnston Insurors of Statesboro as a “Preferred Partner” for 2015, while Grange Insurance honored them with the distinction of being named a Senior Partner.

Frankenmuth Insurance awarded only the top 15% of all independent agencies representing the insurance company based on profitability, growth and partnership. Frankenmuth also recognized the Lee, Hill & Johnston for surpassing the company’s growth goals for 2014.

Grange Insurance recognized the agency for superior professionalism, performance, and experience. Celebrating 52 years of service in 2015, Lee Hill & Johnston is one of only 154 Grange agencies nationwide to earn the award.

Lee, Hill and Johnston has been serving clients throughout southeast Georgia since 1963 when the late Joe Johnston founded the locally-owned agency. As an independent agency, Lee, Hill and Johnston can shop companies for the lowest premiums and best available coverage for personal, business or farm needs. www.lhjins.com

Engineering Partnership Signed Between GS & OTC

Front (L-R) Interim Georgia Southern President Dr. Jean Bartels, Ogeechee Technical College President Dr. Dawn Cartee. Back (L-R) Georgia Southern Interim Provost/VP of Academic Affairs Dr. Diane Cone, Academic Dean of Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering & Information Technology Dr. Mohammad S. Davoud, Ogeechee Tech Executive VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Charlene Lamar.

An articulation agreement signed recently between Ogeechee Technical College and Georgia Southern University will make the path to earning a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering at Georgia Southern an even more uniform process.

OTC President Dr. Dawn Cartee and interim GSU President Dr. Jean Bartels signed the agreement that allows the transfer of credit to Georgia Southern in certain courses taken by students in Ogeechee Tech’s Basic Mechatronics Specialist certificate, Manufacturing Operations Specialist certificate and the pending Manufacturing Technology associate degree program.

Beginning with the fall semester 2015, Ogeechee Tech will offer the Basic Mechatronics Specialist certificate and Manufacturing Operations Specialist certificate, which will prepare students for “work-ready” entry level positions in manufacturing. For more information visit www.ogeecheetech.edu.

Tripp Addison is Georgia Southern University’s New Vice President for External Affairs Georgia Southern University’s Interim President, Jean E. Bartels, Ph.D., RN, has announced the appointment of Trip Addison as Vice President for External Affairs. The Division of External Affairs includes University protocol, government relations and community engagement as well as the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Addison comes to Georgia Southern after serving in the role of assistant director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). Prior to that, he held the position of deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, and previously was the Congressional and State Legislator Liaison and Policy Advisor for Deal for Governor, Inc. He also served as policy advisor to Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal in the areas of natural resources, tax and labor. In addition, he chaired the Georgia Occupational Regulation Review Council and served as a member of the Georgia Special Advisory Commission on Tripp Addison Mandated Health Insurance Benefits.

Addison is also a “Double Eagle” graduate of Georgia Southern University, earning both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in construction management from the College of Business Administration. He was recently named into the Georgia Southern 40 Under 40 class of 2014.

September/October • 11

Garden of the Coastal Plain

Planetarium

Museum

Performing Arts Center

Exploration and Sports Summer Camps

More Than 28K Volunteer Hours Donated by Students

Sixteen NCAA Teams

$846 Million Economic Impact in 2014

Center for Wildlife Education

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES . . .

ONE CHOICE.

Choose Southern.

Georgia Southern University’s 900-plus acre campus is nestled in the heart of Bulloch County and is home to a wide range of attractions and events. Our Southern heritage goes back over 100 years, and we are proud to serve our region, as well as more than 20,500 undergraduate and graduate students on campus and online.

GeorgiaSouthern.edu

Ball in Play It Starts Here

By Jenny Starling Foss

T Not since Erk announced Georgia Southern would be playing NCAA 1-AA football, has there been a sports revelation of this magnitude in Statesboro. This time, it’s all about big league Soccer. The rest of the world knows it as “football.” Americans tend

to associate it with Moms, mini-vans, and recreation departments, but that’s all about to change with the announcement by owners Darin Van Tassell and Jeremy Aven of a Premier Development League (PDL) soccer franchise in Statesboro!

It’s currently the only franchise in Georgia, and the only one to serve an area that includes Augusta, Macon, and Savannah.

With an expected economic impact of this scale, it may be time to learn a few soccer terms.

September/October • 13

Ball in Play

Vision A player foresees possible passes in order to create scoring opportunities.

The vision for Van Tassell and Aven began with an association through the Storm Soccer Academy, a regional youth soccer league for players three to 18 owned by Aven. Van Tassell, owner of The Clubhouse, along with wife Netra Van Tassell, partnered with Aven to bring Storm Soccer to Statesboro and built fields at The Clubhouse to accommodate the growing demand. Storm Soccer Academy is part of an elite youth development league in which players are coached 14 • Statesboro Magazine

by licensed soccer instructors, not parents or volunteers.

Storm Soccer has over 100 elite players in Bulloch County alone, while Aven also has academies in Hilton Head Island, SC, and Savannah, GA. With so much success in the youth market, it was easy to see possibilities for a higher level of play.

“Soccer is coming to play a vital role in the Statesboro and Savannah markets, and this part of the state represents one of the fastest growing sources of soccer talent in the nation,” said Van Tassell. “For us that’s a perfect combination.”

“Savannah and Statesboro have experienced lots of growth on the youth side in the last five years,” Aven stated, “I believe that such momentum will help to drive more growth not only in numbers but in the soccer culture here.”

The Kick-off A player starts or restarts the game by kicking the ball from the “center circle” to a teammate.

The announcement of the only PDL team in Georgia to locate in Statesboro was big news heralded at an official press conference

Ball in Play

at the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau in early August 2015.

The Sports Tourism aspects of having a minor league soccer team in Statesboro made a partnership with the SCVB in researching the franchise development crucial. Media representatives from across the southeast were on hand for the announcement and to hear comments from Mayor Jan Moore, Athletics Director Tom (T.K.) Kleinlein, Van Tassell, Aven, and league officials.

“We are excited about the addition of Statesboro for the 2016 PDL season,” PDL Director Todd Eason said. “Darin Van Tas-

sell and Jeremy Aven have the vision and enthusiasm needed to ensure the club’s success. This will be a boost for the local soccer community, especially the elite players with dreams of playing at the next level.”

In agreement with Georgia Southern Athletics, the team will be playing a 14-game season with seven home games at the University’s Eagle Field soccer complex at Erk Russell Athletic Park near Paulson Stadium.

Kleinlein said, “I have seen the Statesboro community has the kind of loyal fan base a team counts on to succeed. This town is generous and supportive of all sports programming. I think bringing this level of soc-

cer to the area will only benefit the University athletes who will be able to watch and participate in a more professional level of play, while the fans will be able to see world class soccer right here.”

A contest to name the team is being conducted on the team’s website www.statesboropdl.com.

Once the mascot is chosen, a team logo and crest will be released on uniforms in late October. Search for a head coach has already begun with an announcement scheduled for November of this year. Player tryouts begin in January, and the new PDL team will kickoff its inaugural season in May of 2016.

September/October • 15

Ball in Play

A timeline of events August 2015 September 2015 Late October 2015 November 2015 November 2015 December 2015 Jan/Feb 2016 Late January 2016 May 2016

Ball in Play According to the official soccer rules, the ball is in play all throughout the match duration.

What is the PDL and how does it fit into Major League Soccer (MLS)? The PDL is considered the top-level men’s amateur soccer competition in the U.S. and Canada.

There are 64 teams in the league. It’s called a development league because many MLS players got their start in the PDL. It is a proving ground for top North American players. Of those selected for the MLS SuperDraft during the past six seasons, 70% had PDL experience. That means area soccer fans will be able to watch future MLS standouts developing into champions on the field right in front of them.

There are four conferences – Eastern, Southern, Central, and Western – with with ten divisions. Conjecture is Statesboro’s team will be in the Eastern Conference, in the South Atlantic Division. The season spans May –July, with playoffs in late July and August. There are 14 games in a regular season, including both home and away. The top two to three teams in each division advance to the playoffs. In the playoffs teams play single match elimination games until a champion is decided for advancement to the Championship Semi-Final and Final matches.

16 • Statesboro Magazine

The Long Ball A long pass such as one made from the Fullbacks to the Goalkeeper.

The long range benefits of having a semiprofessional league team are many. The increase in tourism spending with hotel stays, restaurants, and retail, increases tax revenue for the city and county. NCAA athletes on break during the summer months can continue playing a higher level of soccer which will not affect their college eligibility. The Storm Soccer League’s players will be able to observe soccer at a professional level advancing their own skills. The new team will draw visitors and fans from a broad area and demographic, making Statesboro a regional hub for high level sports entertainment.

Other youth soccer leagues will bring regional games and tournaments to Statesboro throughout the year.

Future possibilities include a new stadium complex to accommodate the team and the addition of more than one club, perhaps even a women’s team.

Press Conference and Public Announcement Team Name is announced Team Logo and Crest are released Team Uniforms and Kits are available New Head Coach Announced PDL Winter Meetings held in Tampa, FL 2016 Schedule Released Open Tryouts held Inaugural Season Begins

Goal The designated area, between the “goal line,” the “goal posts,” “and the “cross bar,” that team players must pass the ball into in order to score points.

Van Tassell and Aven have traveled the world in their respective roles as International Olympic Sports Administrator and Director of Coaching & Player Development for Storm Soccer. Each has seen the way other countries embrace soccer as the number one sport. That’s a soccer culture that they both are venturing on building here. In Storm Soccer, they can already see the potential.

“American kids mostly lack an outlet to watch live pro soccer,” said Aven. “For the elite youth player, this will give them the opportunity to see where their soccer training can lead, to college, and to the professional leagues. It’s also going to give them the opportunity to get on the team. Once they have reached U18, that next step is here for them.

“We know the PDL will help grow the sport. We’ll have exhibition games with European teams. There will be season tickets.

We’ll be developing our own feeder market of players with the different levels of the game here. The PDL level of soccer will bring in new fans and get more kids and parents involved in growing the culture of soccer, now with unlimited potential.” S

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18 • Statesboro Magazine

T

2015 Bulloch County Young Farmers

There are now 3.2 million farmers operating 2.1 million farms on 914.5 million acres of farmland across the United States, according to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, the latest release by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

According to the same census, in Bulloch County there are 544 farmers with 180,275 acres under cultivation, with the greatest percentages of crops being produced in cotton, peanuts, soybeans and hay. Broilers and other meat-type chickens top the livestock inventory list with 378,086. Cattle and Calves are counted at 8,564.

The average age of the principal farm owner is 61.5, but that number is rapidly falling as the latest crop of young farmers

enters the field. Bulloch County is extraordinary in the agriculture industry in Georgia for the number of young farmers who have emerged to take on the old challenges in new and innovative ways.

The Bulloch County Young Farmers group, under the administration of the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers, has reemerged with membership growing, continuing the legacy of the family farm.

These young farmers are bringing family farms into the digital age with the latest in agricultural technology designed to produce the greatest yields in cultivation and in animal husbandry.

September/October • 19

Daly Glenn | Glenn Family Farms Henry Mikell Rd. Hwy 24 East Statesboro This is the where my granddaddy, Marvin Peed, lived, raised his family and grew his crops. He lived and farmed here his whole life and I have lived here my whole life and now am fortunate enough to farm the same dirt he did for so long.

I’ve been involved with farming for about eight years. I began doing odd and end jobs around the shop. A lot of people over the years have taken their time to teach me and help me. Still with the help and guidance of others, I planted the first crops of my own about four years ago. The ladies at the FSA office were very helpful in making it happen.

My dad, Brian Glenn, has helped me in so many ways from financial backing to introducing me to land owners in the area and much more. I work for Mr. Greg Sikes, Sikes Farms. He has taught me so much about farming, the business and management. He has helped make the dream of farming for myself a reality.

Between my granddaddy’s farm and the old Olliff Farm that I lease, I personally tend 380 acres. Sikes Farm tends 6,000 acres.

I plant corn, peanuts and cotton. In addition, Sikes Farms also plants soybeans and wheat.

Glenn Family Farms has about 60 cows.

Farming with GPS has made planting, spraying and harvesting much more efficient. It not only saves time but also money, both of which are very valuable in this business.

20 • Statesboro Magazine

David & Jamie Cromley | Nellwood Farms 270 Rushing Road | Brooklet I grew up in a farm family and have been involved with farming all my life. As soon as I was old enough my dad, Chap Cromley had me tagging cows and bailing hay. Dad taught me how to work hard and respect the land and the animals. We farm with my uncle Hal Cromley and my first cousin Colby. We are the sixth generation of Cromleys to farm in Bulloch County.

Being a good steward of the land and the animals is critical. We employ agricultural technologies so that we can be more efficient with our resources.

We use irrigation technology for our dryer fields. As part of the Ogeechee River Soil & Water Conservation District, we work to make sure each acre of land is used in accordance to its capabilities and treated according to its needs. For the last two years we have used soil moisture probes that are buried in fields so we know the moisture in any zone.

We use precision Ag technologies: GPS, satellites, software - which tell us everything we want to know topography, moisture levels, pH, crop yield. We employ similar measures in tracking our herd.

We have about 350 brood cows. For the first time since the 1970s, this past fall we started inseminating the cows first instead of breeding them with bulls. With insemination we can breed our cows to some of the best bulls in the country. If a cow doesn’t take, then we can breed them with a bull here. The insemination has a good success rate. We’re working with prime genetics. We can keep up with good meat traits and good breeding traits for good quality and yield in the herd.

I love watching things grow. It strengthens my faith in the Lord when I realize there is fruit to our labor. It is all I have ever wanted to do.

September/October • 21

Ryne & Heather Brannen | Brannen Family Farms 5595 Brannen Farm Road East | Statesboro I have been farming full time for four years. I work with my dad, Jackie Brannen and my brother Jamie Brannen.

Ever since I can remember it is all I have ever wanted to do. It’s what I was made for. I tried a couple of other things and interviewed for several other jobs after graduating from college, but I felt like this was where God wanted me to be and I still feel that way.

Together we have 4,000 acres under cultivation with cotton and peanuts as our crops.

We employ some of the latest farming techniques including GPS guidance and application control, precision soil sampling, drone mapping of fields, a yield monitor on our cotton picker, and farm management software.

22 • Statesboro Magazine

The greatest challenge is the cost of everything.

Arming 4,000 acres requires tremendous investment every year. We literally bet our farm every year that it will rain when we need it to and the market will cooperate.

We have been successful so far, but all it takes is one bad year to wipe it all out. That never gets easier.

We work hard and it feels good to see something that you worked for come together. I feel humble and blessed to still be doing this. We have come a long way over the past four years with the technology and equipment upgrades, but I am truly humbled by our excellent yields from all our crops. I can’t really be proud of that. God did it. All we did was plant seeds and trust in Him.

Speer & Brittany Brannen | Hawkshaw Poultry Farms Alma Lane | Register I’ve been farming for 20 years. I started helping my dad when I was eight. I am now 29 years old.

Dad’s farm is the Double B Ranch & Poultry, he is John Emery Brannen. My brothers also farm, Jeb and Chase Brannen.

I own two chicken houses in association with Claxton Poultry, and I have been approved for two more.

Hawkshaw has 54,000 chickens. Double B has six chicken houses with 161,000 chickens and 1,200 beef cattle.

We also have 315 acres of corn and 1,000 acres of pasture land for Dad’s cattle.

One of the latest farming techniques to benefit us is environmental controls in the chicken houses. Heating and cooling a broiler house is extremely important from

both a performance and economic standpoint. It is crucial that the temperature be maintained. Ventilation delivers fresh air and removes the excess heat, moisture and ammonia.

My greatest challenge is time management. In juggling church, family, my personal farm, and the family farm, it is hard to be efficient in each area. Even though it is hard at times, through prayer, faith, and hard work, the Lord always works it out and provides.

I am the fifth generation to farm our family land. It is special to think that I am farming and providing for my family in the same ways that my great, great grandfather did. It is such a blessing to be able to see the Lord’s hand at work on a daily basis.

September/October • 23

Will & Mary Beth Ball | W. W. Ball Farms 450 Friendship Church Road | Statesboro I have been farming five years fulltime and 13 years part time. I farm with my father Warren Ball and my brother Mitchell Ball. Tab Akins is our farm manager.

We have 300 acres under cultivation in corn, peanuts, rye, millet and hay. We have 200 cows/beef cattle.

I was born and raised on our family farm and have never thought of doing anything else. I’ve always loved the outdoors and being able to see our crops and livestock grow from year to year is very gratifying. It is not really work when you do what you love and I have enjoyed watching our farm grow and become a productive business.

I feel fortunate to be able to work with my Dad and 24 • Statesboro Magazine

brother on the farm my Dad started in 1982. I love the fact that we are a tight knit family that loves working together.

I am also very proud of the quality of our cowherd and the fact we are now working at full capacity.

The latest farming techniques we have started using is green wrapping hay or haylage. This technique has made it easier to get hay harvested in a timely manner between rain events because you don’t have to let it dry out as long.

It also stores longer and keeps vital nutrients longer than dry hay. Even though it is not a new technology, irrigation is something we have recently implemented. This will allow us to have enough hay to harvest during dry, hot summers.

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Growing Leaders

Growing Leaders Leadership Georgia Class of 2015 Visits Statesboro!

By Jenny Starling Foss

F

For the first time since 1998, the Leadership Georgia Program will be visiting Statesboro and Bulloch County the weekend of September 17th – 19th. Community organizers, directors of non-profit organizations, business pacesetters, and key government officials, making-up a class list of class list of 63 leaders from across the state, will spend two

26 • Statesboro Magazine

days touring the area under the direction of Program Chair Team Eric and Mollie Cohen of Whigham, GA. The theme of this year’s program is “Georgia on the Rise,” which the 2015 LG Class began in January on a five-city tour of some of the state’s most progressive communities to learn more about important issues affecting the state.

The communities on this year’s list include: Brasstown Valley – January 29 – 31 – “Emerge”

Thomasville – March 12 - 14 – “Promote” Jekyll Island – April 30 – May 2 – “Expand” Statesboro – September 17 – 19 – “Grow” Atlanta – November 19 – 21 – “Advance” With the theme, “Grow,” this year’s LG Class will be here to observe not only how Bulloch is

progressive in agriculture, but also how Bulloch manages to be progressive in many other areas of economic development including tourism, downtown re-development, sports, and education.

“Bulloch County has a large number of Leadership Georgia graduates, more than most counties in the state,” stated Benjy Thompson, Executive Director of the Bulloch County Development Authority.

“We have hosted Leadership Georgia a couple of times in the past, so Bulloch County has a long association with the program,” he said.

The concept of a leadership development program for Georgia was first introduced back in 1971 at a Georgia Chamber of Commerce meeting. Several key business leaders including Pat Pattillo, then-president of the Georgia Chamber, business leader Jim Lientz, Sr., Rogers Wade of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, and community visionary J.W. Fanning,

Bulloch County Leadership Georgia Alumni Wayne and Kristen Akins David and Fayebeth Ball David and Patsy Bobo Andy and Patty Burns Jamey and Dawn Cartee James (Jimmy) and Susan Cason Christopher and Julie Chance Peggy Chapman James and Cynthia Cone-Dekle Charlie and Susan Cox Tommy and Karen David Tim and Lori Durden Gerald and Sharon Edenfield Charles (Bo) and Keely Fennell John and Carole Godbee DeWayne and Lori Grice Steve and Kathy Hein Billy and JoAnn Hickman Russell and Karen Keen Max Manack Ric and Carolyn Mandes Joe and Beth Mathews Ray and Sally McKinney Al and Jane Mooney Kenny and Julie Stone Benjy and Delaine Thompson Brad and Julie Williams

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Growing Leaders

discussed the idea of such a program during an informal conversation. J.W. Fanning, whose name graces the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development at the University of Georgia, served as the program’s longtime advisor and guiding hand.

Unlike other leadership programs across the country, the Leadership Georgia Program includes not only candidates for leadership training, but their spouses or significant others as well. An inclusive aspect attributed to Fanning’s wife, Cora Lee. She believed that participants often performed community service with the aid of their spouses or significant others and should be allowed to go through the leadership program together.

Most LG alumni become involved in chairing programs for later classes as couples.

Eric and Mollie Cohen, who chair the Statesboro visit, are graduates of the LGA Class of 2014. Thompson, and wife Delaine, were 2005 graduates and later Program Chairs.

Lori and Tim Durden of Statesboro, who 28 • Statesboro Magazine

are helping with the Bulloch County tour, are LG graduates and were Program chairs in 2010. With spouses, significant others, and guests, the visiting group doubles to 120 participants. Add in the other LG alumni and volunteers and the number of visiting leaders rises to 180.

After LG leadership made it known to local graduates that a visit to Bulloch County was possible, the alumni group invited the Cohen’s for several site visits to get an overview of the community and to schedule stops for the two-day visit this fall.

“They will be staying overnight while Statesboro is hosting the class,” said Heidi Jeffers, Executive Director of the Statesboro Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We have assisted planners in preparing a fantastic tour of the area. We’ll be showcasing some of our local farms and Agri-tourism attractions like Hunter Cattle Company. The group will visit a livestock show at an area high school produced by FFA students. There will be

visits to the Main Street Farmers Market and the Wildlife Education Center at Georgia Southern.

Of course, while they are here we want them to see some Georgia Southern football,” she added.

“A great group of local Leadership Georgia alumni have come together to assist Eric and Mollie Cohen in planning the events.”

“Insurance Commissioner Gary Black will also be visiting Statesboro to address the group during a mini Ag-Expo,” she stated.

Several other Statesboro leaders joined in the advance planning of the Statesboro visit including former Georgia Southern President Dr. Brooks Keel and Russell Keen, former Vice President of External Affairs for the University.

Growing Leaders

2015 Leadership Georgia Class James Pierce Alfriend (Thomson) James Alfriend Consulting Foresters Elizabeth Prater Arthur (Lincolnton) Lincolnton Athletic Club Lynn Forth Ashcraft (Dublin) Georgia Department of Community Affairs James Mitchell Bailey (Atlanta) Operation HOPE James Lee Boykin (Jesup) Boykin Erectors, Inc. Tamara Wilkins Brock (Cartersville) City of Cartersville Electric System Jacqueline Michelle Brown (Effingham) Effingham County Schools Bianca Hudson Brown (Columbus) U.S. Department of Homeland Security James Albert Brown, III (Blairsville) Edward Jones/GA Army National Guard Rodney Dennard Bullard (Lilburn) Chick-fil-A, Inc. Antonie Galen Caldwell (Marshville) Wilcox State Prison Keisha Renee Callins (Albany) Albany Area Primary Health Care Andrew Micah Camp (LaGrange) City of LaGrange Charles Henry Cannon (Moultrie) Colquitt County Board of Commissioners Erin Reynolds Chance (Atlanta) Chance Law, LLC Patricia Page Chastain (Roswell) University of Georgia Sharif Hussein Chochol (Evans) Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Suzanna Moore Clifton (Carrollton) Carrollton City Board of Education Thomas Michael Cook (Atlanta) FlexTecs April Hembree Crow (Atlanta) The Coca-Cola Company John Ed Daviston (Newnan) McKoon Funeral Home, Inc. Rukiya S. Eaddy (Atlanta) MARTA Jared Drew Echols (Alto) Jaemor Farms Ashley Cameron Epting (Athens) Epting Events Jason Fernando Esteves (Atlanta) McKenna Long & Aldridge Walter Francis Farrell (Atlanta) George Department of Economic Development Robert Glenn Ferris (Yatesville) Southern Rivers Energy Alison Delano Kimberl Freeman (Rome) Harbin Clinic, LLC Robert Wayne Guy (St. Marys) Robert W. Guy Jr. PC Stacy William Hall (Mount Airy) Truett-McConnell College Michael Allen Hazelton (Fayetteville) Georgia Power Company J. Clark Hill (Commerce) Hill Medical Group, P. C. Jamie Foster Hill (Lake Park) Lowndes County Board of Education Ryan Christopher Inlow (Albany) Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC LaDawn Blackett Jones (College Park) The LBJ Law Group, LLC Kristy Lyn Lindstrom (McCaysville) Georgia House of Representatives Teresa Ann MacCartney (Marietta) Governor’s Office of Planning Budget Justin Christopher Martin (Valdosta) Southeast Capital Investment Group Daylon Luwiscc Martin (Macon) Neighborhood Academy Kellie Kenner McIntyre (Augusta) Augusta-Richmond County David Lafayette Mincey (Macon) Mincey & Mincey, LLC Joseph Eric NeSmith (Athens) Community Newspapers, Inc. Andrea D. Oates (Plains) South Georgia Technical College Kevin James Perry (Atlanta) Georgia Beverage Association Shannon Omia Pierce (Atlanta) AGL Resources, Inc. Frank B. Powers, III (Kennesaw) AT&T Tremaine Keyon Reese (Columbus) Georgia Appleseed Center for Law and Justice Brandon Antoine Riddick-Seals (Atlanta) Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC Brian Christopher Robinson (Atlanta) Office of Governor Nathan Deal Matthew David Rogers (Atlanta) Atlanta Public Schools Joshua Micheal Rogers (Macon) NewTown Macon, Inc. Bryan Sappe (Gordon) Sappe’s Heating and Air Jenny Yin Savelle (Leesburg) Bishop Clean Care Brian P. Smith (Savannah) The Coastal Bank Jodie Rayl Snow (Tifton) Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Ralph Calvin Staffins (Thomson) Forward McDuffie Carly W. Thomas (Valdosta) South Georgia Pediatric Dentistry Michael Blake Tillery (Vidalia) Toombs County Board of Commissioners Lee Ty Turner (Thomasville) Commercial Bank, a division of Synovus Bank Julie Mickle Wade (Savannah) The Wade Law Firm Michael Jason Ward (Cedartown) WD Valuation, LLC D/B/A Appraisal Associates Daren Culbreath Wayne (Flowery Branch) Radial Property Group Blaine Henry Williams (Athens) Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County

September/October • 29

Growing Leaders

“To have a program focused on Statesboro-Bulloch County, agriculture and economic development not only speaks to the leadership and strong sense of community that we enjoy but it showcases all of the wonderful business, economies, and industries and people that make us unique and special.

The opportunity to showcase our community to this group is something we should all be excited about because it helps advance our efforts in economic development and leadership throughout the state,” said Keen.

It also has lasting benefits for LG Class members. “Being chosen for a LG class is a great acknowledgement of one’s career up to that point and it’s a jumping off point for future opportunities in leadership,” said Thompson. “You develop not only a better understanding of issues affecting the whole 30 • Statesboro Magazine

state, you also develop a network of impressive people forging relationships that will stay with you the rest of your life.”

Having more than 3,000 Georgia Leaders participate in the statewide program over the past three-plus decades, and creating a strong network of alumni fulfills the original vision and mission of J.W. Fanning and his team of co-founders. Still affiliated with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the organization has graduated numerous highly influential leaders in Georgia and the U.S. The LG organization describes selection and participation in Leadership Georgia as an honor, “but with this honor comes an obligation to use one’s full talent, ideas and energy to build a better Georgia for all its citizens.”

For more information, please visit www.leadershipgeorgia.com. S

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September/October • 31

The Right to Hunt & Fish

A

The Right to Hunt & Fish

As citizens of Georgia, we have the inalienable right to hunt and fish. Hunting and fishing are so much a part of the lives of Georgians that in 2006 the state legislature enacted Senate Resolution Number 67, adopting an amendment to the state constitution which provides “the tradition of fishing and hunting and the taking of fish and

By Jenny Starling Foss

wildlife shall be prescribed for the people and shall be managed by law and regulation for the public good.”

For this purpose the state of Georgia has designated over 100 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), with close to 100 huntable tracts of land throughout the state. All together over a million acres have been set

aside by our state government for the enjoyment of citizens. It is estimated that every Georgia resident is only a one hour drive away from a WMA. The WMAs are grouped into seven regions around the state from the North Georgia Mountains to the Golden Isles; from the Chattahoochee River to the September/October • 33

The Right to Hunt & Fish Okefenokee Swamp, and all areas in between. Every county in Georgia is part of a Wildlife Management Area. The closest WMA to residents of Statesboro, Bulloch County, is the Oliver Bridge WMA. This tract of pine forest and wetlands contains over 1,500 acres available for hunting deer, turkey, and small furbearing animals.

Bulloch County resides within Region 6 which includes 33 counties (sidebar). Outdoor enthusiasts will recognize the names of places like Big Hammock, Bullard Creek, and Dixon Memorial located within the region. There are dove fields in Appling County open for public shoots; Impoundments at Horse Creek for duck hunting

enthusiasts; plus over 7,000 acres in Coffee and Jeff Davis Counties along the Ocmulgee River set aside for camping, boating and fishing. That’s just a sampling of the land areas available in Region 6, one of the most diverse and rural regions of the state.

The state requires hunters and fishers to be licensed and places limits on the amounts

Hunting & Trapping Seasons

Species Season Dates Limit Deer

Archery

Sept. 12- Oct. 9

12 per season, Statewide

Deer

Firearms

Oct. 17 – Jan. 10

12 per season, Statewide

Bear

Firearms

Sept. 24 -26

Two per season

Southern

Oct. 1 – 3

Zone

Oct. 8 – 10

Turkey

Archery or

March 26 – May 15

Three gobblers per season

Firearms Alligator

Statewide

Aug. 14 – Oct. 5

1 per quota permit holder

Crows

Statewide

Nov. 1 - Feb. 29

No limit

Dove

Statewide

Sept. 5 - 20

15 per day

Oct. 10 – Nov. 1

Nov. 26 – Jan. 15

Fox & Bobcat

Statewide

Dec. 1 – Feb. 29

No limit

Grouse

Statewide

Oct. 15 – Feb. 29

3 per day

Marsh Hens

Statewide

Sept. 25 – Nov. 15

15 per day

Nov. 21 – Dec. 8

Opossum

Statewide

Oct. 15 – Feb. 29

No limit

Quail

Statewide

Nov. 14 – Feb. 29

12 per day

Rabbit

Statewide

Nov. 14 – Feb. 29

12 per day

Raccoon

Statewide

Oct. 15 – Feb. 29

3 per day

Squirrel

Statewide

Aug. 15 – Feb. 29

12 per day

Snipe

Statewide

Nov. 15 – Feb. 28

8 per day

Woodcock

Statewide

Dec. 5 – Jan. 18

3 per day

Mink, Otter, Fox, Raccoon,

Dec. 1 – Feb. 29

No limit

Trapping Opossum, Muskrat, Skunk, Bobcat, Weasel

of game to be taken at any given time (sidebar). A resident may hold more than one license, or may choose to combine licenses depending on the frequency of hunting/ fishing trips, and the range of game being sought.

Different methods of hunting and fishing are also licensed and designated seasons for 34 • Statesboro Magazine

hunting game have been established (sidebar). For example deer season for bow hunters starts September 12th, while those hunting with firearms must wait for the season to open on October 17th. Some counties do not allow firearm hunting, but the few that do not are located within the metro Atlanta area, and on Jekyll Island.

Other regulations may limit the size of fish or game. For example, several counties require that bucks have at least four points on antlers or have at least a 15-inch spread between antlers.

With regulations differing from county to county within WMAs, it is important to check each year with the Georgia Depart-

The Right to Hunt & Fish

Georgia Hunting & Fishing Licenses Hunting License Fishing License Hunting & Fishing License Sportsman’s License Apprentice Hunting License Trout License Big Game License Wildlife Management Area License Deer harvest Record Migratory Bird Hunting License (HIP License) Deer-Dog Hunting License Waterfowl Conservation License Alligator Hunting License Trapping License Shooting Preserve License Saltwater Shore Fishing Saltwater Information Program Permit (SIP)

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The Right to Hunt & Fish

Counties in Georgia Region 6 Wildlife Management Area Appling Atkinson Bacon Ben Hill Berrien Bulloch Candler

Charlton Clinch Coffee Cook Dodge Echols

Effingham Emanuel Evans Irwin Jeff Davis Jenkins

ment of Natural Resources before hunting or fishing on any public or private land.

Residents of Georgia may apply online for licenses at www.georgiawildlife.com. The state also conducts “Sign-in Hunts” at different WMAs for which residents may register to attend.

Other areas of game management requiring licensing within Georgia include Falconry, Aquaculture, Trapping, and Wildlife 36 • Statesboro Magazine

Lanier Laurens Lowndes Montgomery Pierce Screven

Tattnall Telfair Toombs Treutlen Ware Wheeler Wilcox

Rehabilitation.

While the Georgia Department of Natural Resources oversees all aspects of game and land management for the state, both the Senate and the House of Representatives have standing committees to address any new laws or regulations put into place. In our local delegation, three out of four congress members serve on committees relating to the management of our natural resources.

District 159 Representative Jon Burns serves on the Game, Fish & Parks Committee; District 160 Representative Jan Tankersley serves on the Natural Resources & Environment Committee; and District 4 Senator Jack Hill serves on the Senate Natural Resources & Environment Committee.

The Committee on Natural Resources & the Environment has general jurisdiction over issues that relate to the development,

regulation and conservation of the state’s public lands and its natural resources including water, energy (such as surface mining and oil and gas production) and wildlife (including hunting and fishing). While the House Game, Fish & Parks Committee hears legislation that impacts Georgia’s wildlife, state parks, and its other natural resources.

A diverse state in terms of natural resources and environments, Georgia’s terrain includes mountains, canyons, farmland, swamps, rivers, inter-coastal waterways and coastline. To police the usage of this wide range of WMA ecological systems, the State Department of Natural Resources employs game wardens or conservation rangers.

These officers are charged with the responsibility of enforcing the laws and regulations regarding wildlife, DNR properties, and litter and waste as well as ensuring public safety for those who utilize the land for personal enjoyment. The Wildlife Resources Region 6 Law Enforcement Division is located in neighboring Candler County and has five officers.

The DNR also provides shooting ranges for public use on several WMAs statewide and has recently partnered with Georgia Southern University on development of a Shooting Sports Education Center to be located on U.S. Highway 301 South. The 30,000 square foot facility will be situated on a 25-acre spread featuring an indoor archery center and a 25-meter firing range, along with classrooms and administrative offices.

The state is also innovative in designing hunting programs for the removal of destructive or menacing animal populations through controlled hunts. Hogs and overpopulations of deer are controlled through programs like Hunters Helping Farmers where farmers are encouraged to work with the DNR in scheduling special hunts to rid their croplands of nuisance animals.

Progressive programs such as this show how the state is committed to managing its wildlife and natural resources. The management of wildlife areas specifically for hunting, fishing, and other leisure activities means that Georgia is a leader in the nation in guaranteeing all residents the right to hunt, trap, and fish in controlled areas so these popular pastimes may be enjoyed by generations of Georgians to come. S

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September/October • 37

Downtown Rotary

38 • Statesboro Magazine

Downtown Rotary

Downtown Rotary Celebrates 20 Years

I

Written by Jenny Starling Foss

In 1995, several Bulloch County businessmen who were members of the original Statesboro Rotary Club gathered to discuss the idea of forming a second club in Statesboro. Community leaders including Terrell Reddick, Gerald Edenfield, Jack Proctor, Rod Uribe, and Jack Mallard believed with the expansion of Statesboro’s business community during the last decade, there was a need for a second Rotary to extend the opportunity for community service to a broader group of professionals.

Charter Member Kay Brown recalled, “It met the needs of a lot of people who were just too busy to take the time out of the middle of the day, or if you worked out of town or a good ways from Statesboro, it was very difficult to get back.” She was referring to “getting back” every Monday for the 1:00 p.m. original Statesboro Rotary Club meetings at Forest Heights Country Club.

“I reckon it was those who were members of the old club or the original club who saw the need and stepped out to undertake forming the new club there,” said Hub Powell, one of several charter members interviewed for the Downtown Rotary Club’s commemorative 20th Anniversary video. “You know something like that is never a sure thing. You don’t know how much interest there is.”

It turned out there was a high level of interest. The group of charter members for Statesboro’s Downtown Rotary was capped at 51, with Terrell Reddick serving as the first club president.

Reddick’s leadership is fondly remembered by Brown, “The person that I recall the most would be Terrell Reddick, who was the person responsible for starting the downtown Rotary Club. If it hadn’t been for Terrell I don’t think we would have ever gotten off the ground.

We always looked to Terrell when we didn’t know what to do.”

During the first year Downtown Rotary Club meetings were held at Webb’s Nic Nac Grill on East Main Street. The club later moved to the Historic Statesboro September/October • 39

Downtown Rotary

Inn & Restaurant on South Main, before finally settling at the present location of RJ’s Grill on South Main Street. Meetings begin promptly at 7:00 a.m. every Thursday.

Another reason cited for forming a second club was the acceptance of women as members. According to charter member Everett Kennedy, “It was just accepted and expected that women members were coming and it was a change that needed to occur.”

Kay Brown concurred, “They did not accept women in the older club, but in the Downtown Club, they did.”

Phyllis Thompson, also a charter member, remembered, “I’m aware that was probably one of the reasons for the founding of the club, but when Rod Uribe called me that was not part of the conversation or really not part of my consideration for joining.”

According to Al Burke, “They did not want anyone to feel that it was being made into a woman’s Rotary Club, it was a business person’s Rotary Club.”

The Downtown Statesboro Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Statesboro, are both member clubs of Rotary International, a worldwide organization of business and 40 • Statesboro Magazine

New Rotary Club starts Thursday

Statesboro’s new Rotary Club of Downtown Statesboro will begin life Thursday as its new members and board of directors are inducted. The elected board of directors includes Terrell Reddick as president, Rod Uribe as president-elect, Dick Burnett as secretary, and Ann Lupton as treasurer.

Fifty local business professionals are slated to become the charter members of the second Bulloch county Rotary club, which was added to alleviate “need for a second club to help meet Rotary goals in our area,” according to Gerald Edenfield, one of the club’s organizers.

Statesboro Herald June 1995

professional leaders whose motto is “Service above Self.” In addition to community service, Rotarians promote high ethical standards in their professional lives as well, while promoting their ideal of service in personal, business and community relationships. In a broader sense, Rotarians hope to advance international good will and peace through a world fellowship of like-minded Rotarians throughout the world.

Locally, service projects and activities are performed by club members such as “The Great American Clean-Up.” An annual Boston Butt sale is held to raise funds for scholarships and support of a long list of local charitable and non-profit organizations.

The Downtown Rotary supports Education through local reading and literacy programs and an annual speech contest for students.

The club also participates in international projects like Polio Plus, and Disaster Relief ShelterBox for Napal.

In addition, Statesboro Downtown Rotary sponsors several scholarships for area students including the Rotary Student of the Year Scholarship; the Annual Youth Scholarship & Leadership Award; the Terrell T. Reddick

Downtown Rotary

Downtown Rotary Past Presidents TERRELL REDDICK 1995-1996 ROD URIBE 1996-1997 KAY BROWN 1997-1998 HUB POWELL 1998-1999 JOHNNY HATHCOCK 1999-2000 JACK PROCTOR 2000-2001 TED WYNN 2001-2002 KAY WIMBERLY 2002-2003 JOHN KOHN 2003-2004 DOUG LAMBERT 2004-2005 JAMEY CARTEE 2005-2006 TOM ARMSTRONG 2006-2007 MARTY WATERS 2007-2008 MARY HAZELDINE 2008-2009 RICHARD MALLARD 2009-2010 JIM DAVIS 2010-2011 CAROLYN ETHRIDGE 2011-2012 BILLY HICKMAN 2012-2013 HADLEY CAMPBELL 2013-2014 STEVE BURRELL 2014-2015

Active & Honorary Downtown Rotary Paul Harris Fellows JIM ANDERSON TOM ARMSTRONG (2) JOE BRANNEN AL BRASWELL, III (2) STEVE BRITT STEVE BURRELL HADLEY CAMPBELL TOM CASE JAMEY CARTEE (4) CHARLES CHANDLER (2) JAMES E. DAVIS WADE ELLIOTT CAROLYN ETHRIDGE FRANK FRANKLIN (2) DANIEL B. GOOD (2) JIM GRINDLER MARY HAZELDINE (3) BILLY HICKMAN (3) LARRY HUBBARD BOB JACKSON (2) DENNIS KEY ROY KILPATRICK (2) TOM KINGERY JOHN KOHN (3)

DOUGLAS LAMBERT (3) RICKY LANE JACK D. MALLARD (2) RICHARD MALLARD MATT MCGHEE ROBERT C. MICHAEL LEO G. PARRISH III HERBERT POWELL JACK PROCTOR (3) JEREMY RAGAN JAMES L. RIGGS (2) THAD RILEY (2) DWAYNE ROCKER PHILIP ROESEL (2) GEORGE ROUNTREE PERRY ROUNTREE TIM SALTER STEVE SAPP (2) NANCY SHUMAKER ALTON SMITH KATHY SPIVEY RODRIGO URIBE (5) MARTIN WATERS CHAD WIGGINS TED WYNN September/October • 41

Downtown Rotary

Charter Members Arnold Ray Akins Ruth P. Alexis Charles B. Altman Tom Armstrong Charlene Black Kathy A. Bradley Elizabeth Bunce C. R. Burnett Hadley C. Campbell Harry S. Carter Peggy Chapman Stephen F. Gay Craig Gunderson Sue H. Hall John M. Hathcock Peggie C. Herrington Billy Hickman

42 • Statesboro Magazine

William Jarell Jones Everett Kennedy Claude M. Kicklighter, Jr. Vance M. Lackey Doug Lambert John E. Lavender Becky Livingston Patsy Bobo Kay Brown Karen Lovett Ann B. Lupton Susan MacLachlan Jack D. Mallard Richard Mallard Richard Malone Troy W. Marsh, Jr. Betty Minick Randy Nessmith

F. Gates Peed Vivian C. Penn Joe L. Poole, Jr. Herbert “Hub” Powell, Jr. Henry “Jack” Proctor Terrell T. Reddick James L. Riggs Philip Roesel Ann C. Shell Phyllis H. Thompson Johnny W. Tremble Rodrigo L. Uribe Adam Waters James E. Waters Benjamin B. Watkins, III Edwin “Ted” Wynn, Jr. Sherrie L. Ziegler

Honors Scholarship at Georgia Southern; the Hugh O’Brian Leadership Scholarship; and the Ogeechee Technical College Scholarship.

In the first 20 years, Statesboro Downtown Rotary has established a legacy of giving back to the community.

According to Brown, “The whole concept of service above self is meaningful.”

“It’s not just service, it helps us to be better citizens in the community in which we live,” said Thompson. “When we formed as a club we were looking for what ‘best service’ we could give. And I think we have really come into our own with that idea.”

“If anything the Statesboro Rotary Club is very proud of what Downtown Rotary has done, not what we did, all we did was give you an opportunity and you ran with it. It has been marvelous what you have done for the community,” said Al Burke. S Editor’s Note: 20th Anniversary Commemorative video produced by Ann Burrell. To watch visit www.downtownrotary.org

Suketu Patel, DMD, MD Rodrigo Uribe, DMD

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September/October • 43

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IT’S A NEW ERA A changing real estate industry.

A fully revitalized brand.

The evolution of ERA Real Estate

HIRSCH REAL ESTATE TEAM

Pat Hirsch, Broker/Owner 912-690-0924

408 South Zetterower Avenue | Statesboro, GA 30458

912.764.6774 | www.ERAstatesborohomes.com 44 • Statesboro Magazine

The Lamar family has proudly supported Georgia Southern football since 1981

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1 5 S o u t h M u l b e r ry S t r e e t | S tat e S b o r o , G a 3 0 4 5 8 9 1 2 . 7 6 4 . 6 1 9 9 | w w w . S ta n d r e w S b u i l d e r S . n e t Owner - Jamey Cartee, GeOrGia SOuthern C/O 1990 Leadership GeorGia CLass

of

2007 • MeMber

of

d o w n t o w n s tat e s b o r o r o ta ry C L u b September/October • 45

G Serv

LOCAL HISTORY:

PR ESERVATION • INTERPRETATION • EDUCATION • PUBLICATION 4349 GW Oliver Road | Statesboro, GA 30458 912.682.9003 | w w w.bullochhistory.com To become a member contact Exec. Director - Virginia Anne Franklin Waters at 912-682-9003 Membership supports the Programs, Special Events, Workshops, and Publications of the society

Yearly Dues: Individual $40 – Couple $50 – Corporate $250

The Historical Marker Program has installed and refurbished more than 20 markers since 2009.

BCHS published The Downtown Statesboro Walking Tour Guide.The tour is under a mile and begins at City Hall.

Copies available at City Hall & Visit Statesboro.

Georgia Historical Society Roger K. Warlick Local History Achievement Award for 2014 Program of the Year

TalesTomb from the

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Tickets Available at Statesboro Herald • $10 for adults, $5 for children

A LIVING-HISTORY VISIT WITH PROMINENT RESIDENTS OF EASTSIDE CEMETERY, INCLUDING: Walter Aldred Mid-20th century architect of First United Methodist Church & the Georgia Southern Univ. Rosenwald Building

The Bulloch County Historical Society’s Eagle Nation on Parade was installed at the Statesboro Regional Library in 2014. A complimentary learning guide and children’s activity booklet are available at the library.

Georgia Historical Society Roger K. Warlick Local History Achievement Award for 2015 Exhibit of the Year

Lauren Bacall having dinner together at the 21 Club in NYC. Hear what happened at a London party before the filming of Bogart’s The African Queen.

Prince H. Preston, Jr. WW2 veteran and 14-year U.S. Congressman

Ruth Rebecca (Becky) Franklin Morehouse Reporter for Atlanta Journal and various NYC and national publications

Gesmon Neville Pioneer Statesboro lawyer in early 20th century

Ward Morehouse Renowned Broadway critic and author. See Morehouse, Humphrey Bogart, and

P

“The Ole Scarecrow Whaddyaknow Statesboro Medicine Show” brings the interest of our community arts, history, and educational institutions to tell the story of our county’s history to every Bulloch County 3rd grader with life-size puppet people and music on the stage of the Emma Kelley Theatre.

William James, Guest Spirit African-American Educator and founding principal of Statesboro Industrial and High School

artners in

rogress

Thank you to our Officers and Board of Directors!

Officers: Joe McGlamery, President, Brent Tharp, Vice President, Sylvia Harville, Secretary, James Deal, Treasurer, Jan Anderson, Immediate Past President Directors: Rodney Harville, Virgil Harville, Sims Lanier, Bede Mitchell, Connie Sanders, Bill Waters

WHAT DID YOU DO THIS WEEKEND? 1 WEEKEND A MONTH, 2 WEEKS A YEAR

P

artners in

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TUITION ASSISTANCE GI BILL: UP TO $362 PER MONTH DRILL PAY EVERY MONTH UP TO $50,000 TUITION LOAN REPAYMENT

WHO WE ARE.

The National Guard is a unique and essential element of the U.S. military. Founded in 1636 as a citizen force organized to protect families and towns from hostile attacks, today’s National Guard Soldiers hold civilian jobs or attend college while maintaining their military training part time, always ready to defend the American way of life in the event of an emergency.

OUR MISSION.

National Guard Soldiers serve both community and country. Our versatility enables us to respond to domestic emergencies, overseas combat missions, counterdrug efforts, reconstruction missions and more.

The Guard always responds with speed, strength and efficiency, helping to defend American freedom and ideals.

OUR CITIZEN-SOLDIERS.

As a Guard Soldier, your primary area of operation is your home state. Any governor or the president himself can call on the Guard at a moment’s notice. Typically, Guard Soldiers live at home, where they can be near friends and family while holding a civilian job. Drill is scheduled just one weekend each month. Two-week Annual Training takes place once each year.

GEORGIA SFC Bryan Neal: Recruiter 912.601.2748

WWW.BOROGUARD.COM

Fall Festivals

FALL FESTIVALS International Festival Be sure to mark your calendars for the 2015 International Festival! Elementary, middle and high schools, as well as home and charter schools, from various surrounding counties team with international students from the Georgia Southern Global Ambassadors Program to create educational country booths. These booths will form the Global Village which will represent several countries. Factual information, arts & crafts, and other educational activities will be available at each booth. Come see what the students create! There is also free international arts & crafts for children including the World Map Puzzle, World Bingo, Chinese Lanterns, Languages/Calligraphy, Mexican Paper Flowers, Kabuki Warrior Mask, Global Village Search and International Storytime. Purchase unique items from Haiti, Ghana, China, Taiwan, Kenya, Korea, Trinidad, and the Nov. 14 • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Philippines and sample international foods from various countries in the International Mill Creek Regional Park Food Court.

FREE ADMISSION

International Festival

DATE: November 14, 2015 TIME: 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Mill Creek Regional Park

Performances, Market, Food, Games & Global Village

GeorgiaSouthern.edu/IntFest

BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS Fall is an exciting time at many of Bulloch County Schools’ 15 campuses. From fall festivals, to pumpkin parades that teach literacy and a love for reading, to family events and patriotic salutes to those who’ve served our country. Each event gives teachers unique opportunities to weave these themes through their academic and fine arts classes, but also reinforce the traditions of our community and country. You are cordially invited to attend the following events: Sept. 11 - Nevils Elementary Patriots Day 1-2 p.m.

Sept. 19 - Statesboro High School “Broadway in the Boro” Performance 7-9 p.m.

Oct. 1 - Statesboro High School “As You Like It” Performance 7-9 p.m.

Oct. 3 - Turpentine Parade & Festival - Portal Oct. 4 - 9 - Fall Break Oct. 23 - U.S. Army Field Band Performance - SHS - 7 p.m.

Oct. 26 - 30 Nevils Elementary Pumpkin Decorating Contest Oct. 26 - 30 Stilson Elementary Pumpkin Decorating Contest Oct. 29 - Statesboro High School “Something Wicked” Performance 7 -9 p.m.

Oct. 30 - Portal Elementary School Book Character Parade Oct. 30 - Brooklet Elementary Pumpkin Parade Oct. 31 - East Georgia Marching Band Festival at SHS Nov. 7 - Nevils Elementary PTO Fall Festival Nov. 11 - Mill Creek Elementary Veterans Day Parade Nov. 19 - Statesboro High “High School Musical” Performance 7-9 p.m.

Nov. 23 -27 Thanksgiving Break 48 • Statesboro Magazine

Fall Festivals

8th Annual Statesboro Turkey Trot You can gobble or you can wobble, but whatever you do, don’t miss the 2015 Turkey Trot!

All proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit the Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education and the Statesboro Farmers Market.

Mark your calendars as this year’s race will be held on Saturday, November 21st in Historic Downtown Statesboro. The 5K Run will begin and end at the Bulloch County Courthouse on East Main Street in Downtown Statesboro. You can register for the race on active.com. Cost and deadlines for registration is as follows: $25 until November 10th with guaranteed T-Shirt, $30 from November 11th until Race Day, $20 for all students with current student ID, and $10 registration fee for the 12 & under Fun Run. Awards will be given out after the race. Don’t miss this fun way to get in shape prior to your Thanksgiving feast!

DATE: November 21, 2015 TIME: 9:00 a.m. – Race Begins LOCATION: Downtown Statesboro

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2015 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN STATESBORO

George L. Smith Sugar Cane Festival

2015 Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair

It’s the sweetest time of year at George L. Smith State Park! On November 21st, they will host their annual Sugar Cane Festival where families and friends get together to harvest the sugar cane and create syrup. The old-fashioned cane boil brings together farmers, local artisans, and area restaurants to showcase their produce and ingredients and celebrate the sugar cane harvest! There will also be family entertainment for all to enjoy.

Guests can taste the sugar cane in its purest form by sampling fresh-squeezed cane juice.

Syrup will also be available for purchase. Interested vendors are welcome to call the park for more information at (478) 763-2759

The Kiwanis Club of Statesboro is excited to continue this long time tradition of education, heritage, business exhibits, great food, entertainment and rides. The Fair Committee has worked hard this year to add some additional entertainment for all ages. ‘Friend us’ on Facebook (Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair) for up-to-date information and schedules. We’ve booked great music entertainment each night and Rosaire’s Racing Pigs will return after many years. Be sure to watch Lady Houdini as she performs death-defying escape acts.

Crowd favorites such as Bob Bohm’s “FARMily Feud Game”, “The Magic of Bob Bohme” and “Who Will Be The Survivor Game” with continuous shows on the Family Stage and Sam’s Path Petting Zoo will also return for the 2015 Fair. As always our famous Pancake House will be open along with the BBQ Pit and many local groups will be on hand to provide a wide range of food choices. This year’s theme will be “Family Farmers, Taking Pride in Our Heritage.”

DATE: November 21, 2015 HOURS: 9AM – 3PM Admission: $1 * Parking: $5 Location: George L. Smith State Park

ANNUAL SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 21, 2015 9 A.M. – 3 P.M. LIVE MUSIC FOOD & CRAFT VENDORS FRESH CANE SYRUP FRESH GROUND CORN MEAL

REGISTRATION: $25 Until November 10th (guaranteed T-shirt) $30 from November 11th Until Race Day $20 for All Students with Current Student ID (Must show Student ID when picking up race packet)

DATE: October 19-24, 2015 LOCATION: Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds

54th

Kiwanis

annual

Ogeechee

FAIR OCTOBER

19-24

$10 for 12 & under Fun Run

REGISTER AT WWW.ACTIVE.COM All Proceeds Benefit Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education and Statesboro Farmer’s Market.

371 George L Smith State Park Rd, Twin City, GA 30471 Between Metter and Twin City

www.kiwanisogeecheefair.org September/October • 49

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The Write Place

Ross Kelly Releases New Book “What’s your Favorite Song?”

The Life, Family and Music of George and Emma Kelly One of ten children of George and Emma Kelly, Ross Kelly grew up in Statesboro performing music with his mother. Now, after retiring from a successful career in consulting, he has published a memoir about his famous Bulloch County parents.

In the book’s Prologue Kelly shares, “This book is written in memory of my Mother and Father, and for any and every one that knew or had met George or Emma Kelly and appreciated the character and strength of the two of them.

“It is written for our many friends in Statesboro and Bulloch County and Savannah and South Georgia who knew our family, and had a helping hand in guiding us, supporting us, and at times praying for us.”

About the new book release, author John Berendt wrote, “If you enjoyed reading about ‘The

Lady of 6,000 Songs’ in the best seller Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil you will love going behind the scenes to learn more about how the remarkable entertainer and her husband successfully juggled their marriage, her Hall of Fame music career, his sign business, and at the same time, raised ten children.”

The official book release celebration will be held at Forest Heights Country Club on Saturday evening, November 7, 2015. For more information or to order the book now visit www.amazon.com or www.emmasaidproductions.com. A live musical performance featuring Kelly’s “Statesboro Blues Band” is planned for April 9 – 11, 2016 at the Emma Kelly Theater.

September/October • 51

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Renovations help serve student needs at OTC s Barry Turner

Renovations help serve student needs at OTC

R

Recent renovations to Ogeechee Technical College’s (OTC) Joseph E. Kennedy Building were designed to make serving students easier and more efficient. Through the years, as the College grew, space demands for student services increased. Departments utilized existing offices, and in some cases modifications were made to facilities by the College’s maintenance personnel, to accommodate increased demands for space for Enrollment Services. Offices such as Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Registrar, in addition to Student Support Services, were not conveniently located to facilitate efficient service of students’ needs such as counseling, disability services, tutoring, and career services.

With the recent improvements to the Kennedy Building, dedicated suites of offices house each different department within Student Affairs.

“We wanted to create a central hub for services to allow students to come to one location to receive any assistance they may need from Student Affairs. In addition to students saving time because of close proximities of services, we are able to better use staff resources and streamline services,” said Dr. Ryan Foley, OTC’s Vice President for Student Affairs. “Students may now enter directly into a Student Affairs lobby where someone is waiting to provide information and direct them to the area of need for that particular visit.”

The Joseph E. Kennedy Building is the oldest on the Ogeechee Tech campus, but with the recent renovations to the Student Affairs area, “the renovated areas really bear no resemblance to what was here before,” Foley said. “Our goal

was to make students’ experiences with Student Affairs as seamless and convenient as possible, and the renovated facilities certainly help in that regard.”

In addition to renovated office suites, another notable improvement to the Kennedy Building is the new Cattails Café. Located just off the main lobby in the Kennedy Building, the Café offers a variety of fresh food choices, such as sandwiches, pizzas, salads, smoothies, and more. Managed by former OTC Hotel, Restaurant, Tourism Management Instructor, John Witherington, the Café has already proved to be a popular gathering place for students and employees. Freshly prepared food, however, is but one benefit of the Café. Cattails has become an on-campus lab for Culinary Arts and Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism Management students who are able to gain experience, both with “back of the house” kitchen work, and “front of the house” work serving customers.

Cattails provides a relaxed atmosphere for students and employees to visit with classmates or colleagues, to enjoy some good food, and to take a break from the stress of impending projects or tests. The Café overlooks a water feature and fountain area in the center of campus, a beautiful, calming, natural area—which of course, has cattails growing, thus the name of the Café.

Cattails offers a Coca-Cola® Freestyle machine, frozen yogurt, and openflame ‘brick oven’ pizza, according to Witherington.

“We wanted to create a pleasant ambience, in addition to offering really good food,” said Witherington.

“If the first couple of weeks of operation are any indication, we did what we set out to do. The response has been fantastic!”

“Whether providing a more convenient location for students to meet with financial aid specialists or counselors, or providing a great place to eat lunch without having to leave campus, our goal was to improve the students’ experience here, and I think we have succeeded,” said Dr. Dawn Cartee, OTC president.

Limited food service options were available on campus from the College’s bookstore prior to the opening of Cattails, and packaged foods and snacks will continue to be available in the bookstore, but the convenience of the Café means that students have time for a meal when in the past they would have been pressed for time trying to drive into town between classes said Foley. “We always want to be student centered, and this particular renovation of facilities has done more to make a positive impact on campus life than anything in recent memory,” Foley stated.

“College can be stressful, and often navigating the enrollment process can be challenging for those who have not done it before. We hope the ‘one stop shop’ that we have created helps facilitate a smoother transition into college life,” said Cartee. “After all, achieving success in college, and moving into a fruitful career, all begins with being admitted.”

September/October • 53

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Highway 301 s Statesboro Convention & Visitors Bureau

Highway 301 a Georgia Grown Trail

Y

You see them all the time when traveling across the rural South Georgia landscape.

Signs that proclaim the bounty of the land: “Fresh Peaches!” “Boiled Peanuts This Exit!”

“World’s Largest Corn Maze!” For travelers, stopping to spend time at these places is like rediscovering America’s backroads.

The increasing popularity of these agricultural stops with the public is something the tourism industry is recognizing as Agritourism, a category that includes everything from pick-your-own fruit and vegetable farms to apiaries with home-grown honey; from pumpkin patches to dairy farms; from wedding venues to vineyards.

Now eight counties along U.S. Highway 301 have united to create an Agri-tourism corridor known as the Georgia Grown Highway 301 Trail. Along the 301 Trail there are over 60 official “Trail Stop” opportunities to sample locally produced food, wine, and dairy products abundant at pick-your-own

farms, vineyards, vegetable stands, farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants.

But that’s not all. Ever been a farmer for a day? Picked strawberries? Visited a pumpkin patch? You can experience these and other farm adventures, too. Educational farm experiences are part of the 301 Trail’s allure. There are establishments dedicated to preserving and sharing local recipes and traditions; and time honored and progressive crops and farming techniques.

When it’s time to rest for the night, the 301 Trail offers unique lodging opportunities including everything from tent camping to barn-loft bedrooms, plus many standard hotels providing comfortable modern lodging along the way.

Statesboro is the largest city for an overnight stay on the Georgia Grown 301 Trail, and Bulloch County has the greatest concentration of attractions.

Written by Heidi Jeffers

“It’s well known that in this area of the state agriculture is our primary industry,” stated State Representative Jan Tankersley, “I think the Georgia Grown 301 Trail provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase this through Agri-tourism attractions which introduce travelers to charming venues like the Main Street Farmers Market and the Garden of the Coastal Plain.”

“I think this marries two of our state’s largest industries – agriculture and tourism,” stated Barry Turner, Vice President of the Statesboro Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Directors. “It’s a logical fit.”

“There is a much greater opportunity when you partner with neighboring communities to showcase our part of the state as a whole,” said Heidi Jeffers, SCVB Executive Director. “The new Georgia Grown 301 Trail will give us another way to promote our great region to tourist and visitors, plus give them another great reason to stop and stay awhile.”

September/October • 55

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Ben Garvin , Photographer - Eagle War Wagon

True Blue GS s Doy Cave

I

Tailgating in the South In the South, food and football are two of our most sacred institutions, and tailgating is the purest expression of both for sports fans.

There’s a rich history of tailgating in the South, though it wasn’t always organized around football. According the American Tailgaters Association, the first tailgating party took place in 1861 at the Battle of Bull Run in Manassas, Virginia, eight years before the first football game was ever played. Civilians followed the Union Army down from Washington to see what they hoped would be the only real battle in a short war.

Alan C. Downs, associate professor of history at Georgia Southern, says it wasn’t much like tailgating as we know it, though.

“Many did, indeed, bring picnic baskets, but they were mainly as a source of food for the lengthy trip, rather than snacks for the main event,” he said. “In fact, most of the civilians never got near the battlefield. They could only hear the sounds and see smoke rising in the distance.”

Despite the differences, Downs says there was one similarity.

“Similar to the parking lot exodus after a football game, the civilians were caught up in the Federal Army’s hasty retreat back to Washington,” he said.

Tailgating has come a long way since Bull Run, but tailgating experts Laney Claxton and Seaby Phillips say the essentials are the same. The Georgia Southern Eagles fans have each tailgated every year with their families at almost every home game since 2000, and while they’ve graduated from simple canopies to a full setup with an RV, they say tailgating doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.

“Wherever you’ve got two Eagles fans gathered, you’ve got a tailgate,” said Claxton.

Tailgating in the South is simple, but here are a few of the must-haves to make it a success: 1. Battling the Sun Claxton and Phillips agree that a shelter is the most important part of a good tailgating experience. Fall in Georgia can stay oppressively hot, and if you don’t have an umbrella, tent or canopy to sit under, you’re in for a miserable day. And whether in the shade or out, don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen.

2. The Menu Our tailgating experts say it’s wise to really think about what you’ll eat and drink when tailgating.

“Weather has a lot to do with it,” said Phillips. “A lot of hot dishes aren’t necessarily that appetizing when it’s 95 degrees. You want something cool.”

For the summer, focus on lighter, cooler menu items and save the hot and hearty stuff for later in the season. In addition, don’t forget about food safety. If your food is sitting out more than an hour in 90-degree weather, you should consider tossing it.

While beer is certainly a staple for many tailgaters, it’s not the only drink you’ll need. Hydration is important, and Phillips says you need to remember to bring water or Gatorade if you’re going to make it to the game.

3. Don’t forget!

When you’re rushing out the door to make it to the stadium, it’s easy to forget those incidental items that you’ll desperately need away from home.

• First-Aid Kit: Phillips says that a first-aid kit is a must when tailgating. It’s not just important to have for cuts and scrapes, but also to have painkillers and antacids for a range of aches and pains.

• Jumper Cables: It’s great to have music playing at your tailgating party, but it’s more important to get home eventually.

• Hand Sanitizer: When you’re handling food -- especially raw meat -- cleaning your hands is a must.

Bring lots of paper towels, too, in order to keep your hands and face clean.

• Trash Bags: Tailgaters need to leave the parking lot as clean as when they arrived, and without trash bags, this becomes a difficult task. Don’t forget them!

While these tips will help you put on a great party, a true tailgating experience is nothing without fellow fans and friends. Be sure to bring extra for the fans you know and the ones you’ll meet.

We hope to see you at Allen E. Paulson Stadium to see the Eagles defend their Sun Belt Conference Championship. And if you’re tailgating, be sure to get here early!

For more tailgating tips, check out the Georgia Southern page on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/ georgiasouthern/ September/October • 57

TAKE FLIGHT PICK UP YOUR COPY OF FLIGHT AT PAULSON STADIUM TODAY THE OFFICIAL GAME PROGRAM OF GEORGIA SOUTHERN ATHLETICS

GEORGIA SOUTHERN

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SAVANNAH STATE

SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 • PAULSON STADIUM

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YOU on our LIST? Email editor@statesboromagazine.com September/October • 59

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The Spiritual Pathway s Rev. Dr. H. William Perry

What’s Your Availability?

I

If you go into a school classroom and look around on the walls you will find an invention that has changed very little in the past 150 years: an old-fashioned, handcranked pencil sharpener. It may not be in as much use today as it was when I was a student because of the prevalence of mechanical pencils, but it’s still there.

I’m never more than two or three feet away from a pencil. Normally I use one every few minutes. One of the big things about pencils is their availability. They’re everywhere!

If you and I want to be more useful people we need to be available. People all around us have needs that we can meet.

“We’ll be gone for a week beginning Saturday. Can you pick up our papers and mail for us?”

“Sure, I can do that!”

Your phone rings and a lady down the street says, “I have a doctor’s appointment in the morning at 10:00. Any chance you could come by and take me to the doctor’s office?”

“I’d be happy to.”

How can we get word to the people around us that we are available? That’s not an easy question to answer. It has something to do with our demeanor. Do we look concerned and welcoming?

History tells us that a man was standing by a creek needing a ride across. In the distance he saw men on horseback approaching the creek. When the horses got to the crossing the man approached one of them and asked for a ride. He was told “Yes, hop on!” When they got across the creek to the other side the man slid off the horse, took off his hat, and thanked the rider. One of

the horsemen lagged back a bit, called the man over and asked, “Do you know who that was that gave you the ride? It was our President, George Washington! Why did you ask him for a ride?” The man replied, “He had a ‘Yes’ face.”

I sure wish I could develop a face like that. I would like to be more available to people. I would also like to be an introducer who can take people into the presence of those who can do what I can’t.

You remember the story of the soldier in the Civil War who got word that his brother had died leaving his mother to run the farm? He was stationed close to our nation’s capitol, and when he was permitted to take a day off he went to the White House to see President Lincoln. When he approached a guard he was told there was no way he could see the President. Young Todd Lincoln came out into the yard and saw the dejected young soldier sitting quietly on a bench.

“What’s the matter?” he asked.

The soldier told him the situation he faced, and young Lincoln said, “Come with me.” Todd Lincoln took the young man into the White House, found his daddy, and introduced the two. When the soldier told the plight of his mother, the President wrote out a discharge and handed it to him.

Wow! All because of a boy acting as a gobetween!

I want to do more of that. Introducing people to others who can make a difference.

Making a difference myself. Being available, like a seven-inch stick of cedar with graphite lead in it! They’re everywhere!

You know the Twelfth Man Tradition in Texas A & M football? It goes back to a game in 1922 when all but one of the running backs were injured, and Coach Bible sent word to a young man who went out for football but didn’t make the cut.

“Go put on a uniform and stand in the seats behind me.”

E. King Gill did as he was instructed. He stood the rest of the game, signifying his availability. He wasn’t needed in that game, but he was available. I guess you know that the tradition at A & M games is that every student stands for the entire game.

“I’m available Coach.”

Are you?

September/October • 61

LOOK AROUND Paint the Town Blue Kick-off Coach’s Luncheon Tuesday, August 18, 2015 Gene Bishop Field House Paulson Stadium

62 • Statesboro Magazine

September/October • 63

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64 • Statesboro Magazine

The View from Here s Ric Mandes

It Was Just A Summer Job!

T There’s this college kid, twenty-one, tall, handsome, good student. A member of the Greeks. You know the ones who wear symbols a-blazing, especially on football weekends.

Then there’s this middle-age man, in his late fifties.

He’s never been to college. In fact, he probably didn’t finish high school. He is already bent beyond his age. Years of harsh labor will do that. He carries a broken heart, done in by divorce. He’s doing his best to support two of his four children on minimum wage.

That’s top dollar for mowing vast campus lawns, sweeping clear deep ditches by thrusting a giant bush ax eight hours. In the broiling sun, no less.

The college kid is a pre-med major. He studies hard. He has to. He’s not all that smart. He’s just determined. He has already gained honors, a certificate naming him Outstanding Sophomore Biology Major of The Year! He represents an average of six hours outside of class gathering and remembering vast sections of material.

The old man gets a piece of paper at week’s end – a pay check. It’s his certification of appreciation for five long days of brutal labor.

But get this. They, the kid and the bent guy have something in common – a dream.

The college kid wants to be a doctor. The old man wants his kids to do better than he has. The college kid, wanting to get as far away as he can from thick texts and lecture notes, joins the field hands to sweat and just not think.

Little did he know a teacher of a very different kind waited for him in the forest. Little did he know that every day the old man would speak to him about living.

Little did the kid know what he heard day after day about life from the old man would shape treasured values that would never see the light of day on his college transcript, nor the dawn of his commencement. Beads of sweat coursed the face of the old man in rivulets as he would interject the air with wise thoughts. All the while the bush ax never faltered.

This encasement of teacher-student lasted six weeks.

The kid heard clearly the old man’s narrative of bad judgment of trials and tribulations still haunting him. Of his ongoing bout with cancer eating at his right foot.

Of losing his wife and two of his four kids through the divorce. About being uneducated. About heading for sixty and what did he have to show for it, as he battled wet South Georgia kudzu? The kid, bone tired at the end of the day, would stand in the shower with the stream of hot water pelting him physically while the old man’s thoughts overwhelmed him. Later, he would sit in

his room and take in the vast books already studied and then ones to come. Often he would smile and think to himself, Jesse, his forest guide, should write a book about taking wrong paths and how to find the way back. Though sadly the old man never will.

Too late to start over. Or is it?

Summer is gone! It’s fall.

The twenty-one-year-old is deep in the books. Day and night without a break.

His life is all college now. But, he has been to the forest. Ah, the forest and Jesse. Imprisoned for life, clearing the way of harsh roots and that damn kudzu. Interestingly, the kid in recalling the teacher in the forest with high regard. Yes, praise that Jesse’s mind was not so maddening; that he could release life from the far side to the kid.

Each night lying there waiting for sleep, a benediction for and to Jesse was released

by Mark David, the kid. It was an anthem of hope that one day the old man would stand tall, put down the bush ax, and release a melody of soft prayer filling the forest with “Lord lift this old sinner up to a better place to be!”

“Wouldn’t that be something?” Mark David pondered as sleep took form.

September/October • 65

TRANSITIONS

“A good life is when you smile often, dream big, laugh a lot, and realize how BLESSED you are for what you have.”

— Unknown Mr. Charles W. Adams, Sr.

06.17.15

Mrs. Dorothy M. Gleissner

05.11.15

Mr. Ancil Silas Parrish

06.16.15

Mrs. Elsie Dale Allhouse

05.21.15

Mr. William Gene “Billy” Godbee

06.09.15

Mrs. Sally McGrath Payne

06.04.15

Mrs. Diane Green Allmond

06.24.15

Mrs. Alzada M. Hagins

05.30.15

Mr. Robert L. “Bobby” Pence, III

05.29.15

Mrs. Annette Howard Anderson

05.12.15

Mrs. Mary Loiuise Jeffers Harrrison

06.30.15

Mr. Ferrel Phillips

06.18.15

Mrs. Charlotte Ketchum Anderson

06.18.15

Mr. Wayne Hart

05.30.15

Mrs. Catherine T. Pierce

05.21.15

Mr. Dorsia Alexander Atkinson, Sr.

05.29.15

Mr. Frank Hendrix

05.28.15

Mr. Johnie Lewis Porter

06.10.15

Mr. Gerald Clyde Bailey

05.03.15

Mr. Zara “Junior” Hodge

06.18.15

Mr. Harry L. Raith

05.29.15

Mr. Paul Howard Bass

05.17.15

Mr. Daniel Patrick Hodges, Sr.

05.14.15

Mrs. Zulene Bowen Ramage

06.17.15

Pastor Donald E. Bing, Sr.

05.10.15

Mr. Ben “Hill” Ivey, Jr.

05.13.15

Mrs. Anna Marie Rice

06.19.15

Ms. Elsie Pansy Newman Bird

06.07.15

Mrs. Shirley Jernigan

06.26.15

Mrs. Victoria Mallard Ricks

06.14.15

Mrs. Ula Bostic

05.13.15

Mrs. Libby Adkins Johnson

05.16.15

Prophet Eddie Roberts

05.02.15

Mr. Jessie Maylon Bowen

05.22.15

Mrs. Marsha Renea Starling Joiner

05.05.15

Mr. William Nicholas Rogers

05.26.15

Mr. Fred Bowles

06.06.15

Mr. Alvin Maurice King

05.16.15

Mrs. Doris Erlene Hodges Rud

06.12.15

Mr. Lee Watt Brack, Sr.

06.27.15

Mrs. Betty Jean Powell King

06.07.15

Mr. Barry Phillip Sherrod

06.23.15

Mrs. Imogene Groover Brannen

05.02.15

Mrs. Nora Knight

05.23.15

Mrs. Glyda J. Shubel

05.15.15

Mr. Larry Brinkley, Sr.

05.31.15

Mrs. Claire Virginia Sack Krissinger

05.26.15

Mr. Lonnie Simmons, Jr.

04.29.15

Mr. Sonney Brown

06.16.15

Mrs. Hilda Stegins Lariscy

05.16.15

Mr. Jimmy Skrine

05.22.15

Mr. Alfonzo Brunson

05.22.15

Mr. James Howard Lawason

05.30.15

Mrs. Sadie Pelot Smith

05.10.15

Ms. Eyvonne Pye Carruthers

06.07.15

Deacon Waymon Lester, Sr.

05.30.15

Mr. Tony R. Smith

05.22.15

Mr. Timothy Hal Cartee

06.16.15

Mr. Harold “Round Man” Lowery

06.24.15

Mr. Albert Smith

06.05.15

Mr. Rollie “Raleigh” “Possum” Clark

05.18.15

Mr. Mathie “Mac” McCranie

06.11.15

Mrs. Hilda R. Smith

06.14.15

Mrs. Minnie Collins

06.15.15

Mrs. Elizabeth Deal McKanna

06.04.15

Mrs. Myrtis Whitaker Smith

06.18.15

Mr. Toney Ernest Conner

05.03.15

Mr. Jason Grant Meeks

06.02.15

Mr. Cecil Hiawatha Smith, Jr.

05.29.15

Mr. Ralph E. Cowart, Sr.

05.18.15

Mr. Brian Renald Melancon

05.16.15

Mr. Joe Stinson

05.21.15

Mr. Brian Keith Crosby

05.27.15

Mrs. Margaret Gunter Hendrix Miley

06.12.15

Mrs. Nellene Brown Davis Stuckey

06.27.15

Mrs. Flary Mae Deloach

05.26.15

Deacon Eddie Mincey, Jr.

05.17.15

Mr. Cecil T. “Tommy” Swinson, Jr.

06.30.15

Mrs. Mary Waters Deloach

06.11.15

Ms. Lee Bertha Moore

05.16.15

Mrs. Mattie Barlow Tanner

05.14.15

Ms. Merlene Devine

05.02.15

Mr. Charles Winfiend Morel, Jr.

05.29.15

Mr. John Edward “Ed” Teston

06.25.15

Mrs. Margie Jones Dobson

06.18.15

Mrs. Elise Coker Morris

05.18.15

Mrs. Lula Beatrice Thomas

06.30.15

Miss Laura Suzanne Donaldson

05.24.15

Mrs. Freida Paige Morris

05.21.15

Mrs. Delores Elise Shuman Thompson

05.05.15

Mrs. Claudia Tinker Donaldson

06.11.15

Mrs. Geraldine Murray

05.12.15

Mrs. Lula Mae Williams Dekle Trapnell

05.22.15

Dr. Donald Joseph Drapalik

05.22.15

Mr. Richard Calvin “Ricky” Nesmith

05.12.15

Mrs. Ruby M. “Doll” Tucker

06.11.15

Judge Berry Avant Edenfield

05.09.15

Mrs. Doris Hagin Newsome

06.09.15

Mrs. Wanda Kay Williams Walker

06.21.15

Mrs. Nellie Mae McKinney Edenfield

06.20.15

Mr. Samuel Robert “Sam” Page

05.15.15

Mr. Calvin “June Bug” Wallace, Jr.

05.13.15

Mr. Timothy Faircloth, Sr.

06.28.15

Mr. Edward A. Palmieri

06.09.15

Deacon Robert “Jaha” Wilbon, Jr.

06.26.15

Mr. Cecil J. “C.J.” Williams

05.10.15

Mrs. Mattie Lou Dukes Williams

05.16.15

Mrs. Mary Jones Wulkan

06.27.15

Mrs. Patricia Carroll Fitzwater

05.09.15

Mrs. Frances Findley Hadden Parkerson

05.05.15

Mr. David Ericksen Foltz, Sr.

05.20.15

Ms. Janice “Penny” Parrish

06.01.15

Mrs. Alma G. Freeman

06.14.15

66 • Statesboro Magazine

Citizens Bank has the perfect game plan for your finances.

Stop by one of three locations or bank with us from your tailgate tent by using our mobile app.

Sandersville

818 S. Harris St. Sandersville, GA 31082 (478) 552-6121 www.cbwc.com

Sandersville

132 S. Harris St. Sandersville, GA 31082 (478) 552-5116 www.cbwc.com

Statesboro

425 Commerce Dr. Statesboro, GA 30461 (912) 871-2971 www.cbofbc.com

Simple Banking, The True Blue Way.

You are welcome here.

There’s something different about the way everyone cares for one another in our community, and you’ll find it’s the same way at Sea Island Bank. Turn to us for the financial products and services you need. Because here is a great place to be your friend, your neighbor and your bank.

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Banking products are provided by Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Divisions of Synovus Bank operate under multiple trade names across the Southeast.

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