Thomasville Magazine Spring 2023

On

SOULFUL

T H O M A S V I L L E of

E A S Y & C O N V E N I E N T

Service center

Key making

Programmable car keys

Knife sharpening

Glass & plexiglass cutting

EGO service center

Screen making and repair

COMING SOON: Improved exterior & a

5,000 sf live plant center

T H E H E L P F U L H A R D W A R E F O L K S

A t A C E o f T h o m a s v i l l e , w e o f f e r c u r b s i d e p i c k u p , d e l i v e r y a n d a s s e m b l y . A n d , w h e n y o u c o m e t o o u r s t o r e , y o u c a n e x p e c t t o f i n d t e a m m e m b e r s w h o a r e k n o w l e d g e a b l e , h e l p f u l a n d c a n h e l p y o u f i n d e x a c t l y w h a t y o u n e e d . W e p r i d e o u r s e l v e s o n b e i n g t h e h e l p f u l h a r d w a r e f o l k s !

O R D E R O N L I N E , P I C K U P I N S T O R E ! N e e d s o m e t h i n g u n i q u e ? O r d e r f r o m y o u r h o m e w i t h t h e c o n v e n i e n c e o f o n l i n e s h o p p i n g , a n d p i c k i t u p f r o m o u r s t o r e . Y o u c a n a l s o r e t u r n i t e m s f r o m o n l i n e i n - s t o r e . O r , c o m e i n a n d w e c a n p l a c e a n o r d e r f o r y o u !

MAGAZINE

The first and finest in the Red Hills Region FOUNDER

John D. “Jack” Kelly | March 15, 1931 - July 8, 2015

A bank’s success is never an idea alone.

Thomasville National Bank’s success lies in our community of customers, in their character, in their loyal response. They value trust: the handshake agreement.

They are proud of Thomasville: its families, traditions, and prosperity.

“He spent his life giving back to the community he loved!”

•

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Karen “KK” Snyder| kk@thomasvillemagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Lauren Vann | Adele Creative Marketing & Design

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lauren Vann | Jacob Welch

ADVERTISING SALES

Wendy Montgomery

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katie Alt | Felicia Dilbert

Kristen Soles McCrackin | Stephanie Rice

Sarah D. Shearer

PHOTOGRAPHY

Emily Tucker Photography

—

STEPHEN H. CHENEY I CEO

“Your success is our success”

Spring in Thomasville is about as pretty a scene as anyone could wish for, and it’s well on its way. That unavoidable yellow haze this time of year comes with beautiful blossoms in all the colors of the rainbow. For allergy sufferers, the azaleas, cherry blossoms, and dogwoods might be harder to see through itchy, watery eyes, but they are there, trust me!

Baseball is another reason I love to celebrate spring, whether it’s my grandson’s little league games or the swing at another winning season for the Atlanta Braves. Opening day for both is just around the corner, and I’m ready for someone to take me out to the ballgame.

This issue should also take you outside, from travel suggestions, including Apalach and the Door County peninsula of Wisconsin to opportunities for fishing and enjoying the great outdoors right here close to home. There are also lots of great outdoor events coming up in our area, so mark your calendars for those.

As always, we appreciate your support of Thomasville Magazine ― 20 years and still going strong!

Best, Karen (KK) Snyder EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDITORIAL INFORMATION

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DIGITAL EDITION & SOCIAL

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thomasvillemagazine.com

“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”– Babe Ruth

A LEGACY LAKE

A modern stay on a historic lake stretching back to the 1830s

WRITTEN BY Kristen Soles McCrackin

Nestled in a quiet area of Pavo, Georgia, the 350-acre Lake Nichols and surrounding acreage is relatively undisturbed by time. It reflects a longago era yet offers its 1,000 annual visitors all the modern amenities needed for personal comfort.

According to historical accounts shared by the Nichols family, current owners of this pristine tract, the property can be traced back to the 1830s when the land was owned by

a gentleman named Yates, first name now unknown.

Around that time, two brothers, the Adamses, came scouting through the area looking for land to settle and work. They chose the Pavo location because of the available water, which would allow them to make power for the businesses they intended to start.

It came to pass that one of the brothers married one of Yates’s daughters. Eventually, the Adams brothers bought part of the land

and inherited the rest. They soon established a grist mill, cotton gin, and turpentine plant there.

To operate these businesses, they dammed up part of a body of water called Little Creek, into which flowed 16,000 acres of watershed below Moultrie and in Brooks County. In doing that, they created a larger body of water, known as Lake Nichols.

As was common for that period, a small community of workers and their families sprang up around

the property. Known as Morre, the community initially formed because of available work through the industry and operations of the industrious Adams brothers. It’s estimated that 10 to 15 families lived around the lake. Visitors to the property today can still see remnants of the grist mill as well as the commissary. The schoolhouse that once stood there is no longer visible. As roads developed, the Morre community broke up and moved on, residents no longer needing to live so close to where they were working.

In 1916 a man named Melton purchased everything and continued the operations until the early ‘40s, when he closed the grist mill, cotton gin, and turpentine plant and transitioned to making a living from the plentiful fish he could catch and sell from the lake.

In 1944, T. Frank Nichols discovered the property and what would be his family’s legacy. Nichols grew up outside Hahira, Georgia and ventured over to Pavo sometime in his 20s “for

a mess of fish,” says grandson and current caretaker Nick Murray.

“He got to talking to Mr. Melton and found out he might be interested in selling [the property],” says Nick. “They negotiated, and he had been successful enough as a farmer to be able to borrow that money from the bank, so he brought the $10,000 back in a paper sack and bought it.”

Nichols continued to farm but was ready to establish himself through other opportunities, determining the lake and property to be the perfect route to his vision.

“None of us have ever made much money, but we’ve made a good living getting by on things related to this

lake and land,” says Nick.

His grandfather restarted the grist mill and operated it for about a decade. By that time, the kerosene power plant had been developed, negating the need to generate power from the lake. The lake was still very thick with cypress trees, so Nichols cleared them in the 1950s and ‘60s, opening up about 100 acres of water. The open access allowed for better fishing and even waterskiing, creating a recreational draw. With the addition of a small entertaining area with a beach, the property drew weekend visitors for boating, cookouts, and other outdoor activities.

Nichols and his sons conducted dam cuttings on the lake, lowering Continued, p.17

Previous page: A Lake Nichols fishing member proudly displays his big catch.

The property offers secluded, off-the-beaten-path surroundings, with full amenities in the fully restored lodge and cabin.

The lodge was created using two tobacco barns that the family used years ago to hang and dry tobacco.

When You Shop Local… Everyone Wins!

More than just a clean and friendly gas station, Susie Q’s proudly offers high quality products from Wingzone along with top quality gas and the merchandise you need. Headquartered in Thomasville since 1999.

COMING SOON! Susie Q’s at 1527 East Jackson Street, Thomasville

Thank you to our loyal customers!

the water significantly and making it easier to catch fish. “It would be in the newspaper, and hundreds of people would come in a day. They’d charge by the car, so you’d pack as many people as you could into the car and come with your nets and catch as many as you could in this shallow water,” says Nick.

Today, the lake is owned by the Nichols’ siblings and one grandson, Nick’s brother, professional golfer Harris English. Many family members continue to work on the property and live nearby, including Nick, all carefully grooming the land to keep it a desirable place for recreation.

Visitors to Lake Nichols can see unique waterfowl and other birds,

including the majestic bald eagles that have nested there for many years. Sunsets over the lake are stunning. The property offers secluded, off-thebeaten-path surroundings, with full amenities in the fully restored lodge and cabin. “Our lodge is made of two tobacco barns that my granddad and family used to hang and dry tobacco,” says Nick, noting the cabin is an old tenant house from the 1930s.

Through Airbnb, the lodge rents for $600 per night and is a good setting for small events, including bridal gatherings, corporate events, and

Top: T. Frank Nichols with a cypress on the property; bottom: clearing out trees for open water on Lake Nichols.

Place & PRESERVATION

family reunions, while the cabin rents for $175 per night, with a two-night minimum.

“We get a lot of people from Central and South Florida and all over the Southeast. Many talk about enjoying getting away from fast-paced society and being able to relax. They like getting out of the hustle and bustle and being able to be secluded.”

English describes the desired future for Lake Nichols. “We have built some really cool cabins that can bring more people out to enjoy the lake. It has always been part of the community of Pavo, and my granddad was really big on including all of the neighbors and people of Pavo.

“I’d love as many people as possible to come out and have the same experience that I have when I go out to the lake. It has been one of the best bass fishing spots in Southwest Georgia for many years, and we’re trying to make it bigger and better all the time.”

English also discussed owning a business with family members. “My granddad spent most of his life working and nurturing the place and it’s really cool that, after eighty years, it’s still in the family. We’re trying to make it better every single year and I know my grandad would be proud of it.”

Nick Murray has similar thoughts. “We hope this property shows that working hard as a family to stay together is worthwhile and what a hardworking family can do.”

For more info, visit nicholslake.com. TM

Previous page: (top) Nick Murray shares a page from a family album; (middle) T. Frank Nichols (right) and oldest son, Lamar Nichols (left) on fishing shack porch; (bottom)

T. Frank and wife, Dorothy Nichols

Legally Literary

BY KATIE ALT

IT TOOK YEARS OF CONSIDERATION FOR THOMASVILLE ATTORNEY

JOE CARGILE TO TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH AS AN AUTHOR.

Joe Cargile is about as far away as you can get from the stereotypical big-city lawyer one might find on the likes of shows like Boston Legal or Suits

When he moved to Thomasville in 2015 to join the team at Whitehurst, Blackburn & Warren, Cargile says, “It just made sense.” He had visited the community numerous times over the years while dating his now-wife, Brittany, a Thomasville native. He had also previously interned with the Thomas County district attorney’s office a couple of years prior.

“Our practice is a true small-town general practice,” says Cargile. Housed in a converted historic home right on Broad Street, Whitehurst, Blackburn & Warren has been a full-service law firm for almost a century. Now in his eighth year of practicing law here, Cargile says he is grateful for the classical training he’s received in The Rose City. While his days can range anywhere from putting a will together to trying a criminal case, he says, “One of my favorite things about my job is meeting the people who come into my office.”

A YOUNG SCHOLAR

“I’ve always loved to read,” says Cargile. “As soon as I got the chance to go to the library as a kid, I felt there were an infinite number of stories you could grab from the shelves.” He fell in love with reading at an early age and also found himself admiring his grandfather and those with the innate ability to tell good stories. “I’ve always enjoyed storytellers,” he says, “and we’re often introduced to great storytellers as kids at our own family reunions, or through our local church.”

Having never tried to seriously write until college, Cargile quickly found it laborious and was easily distracted from the task at hand. Although a history and Spanish major in Auburn University’s College of Liberal Arts, he says, “I didn’t really have a lot of discipline. It takes a lot of discipline to be able to create something.”

It took going to law school and being exposed to deadlines, a stricter approach to sentence construction, and having his writing “put under the microscope” for Cargile to better understand and apply the discipline of employing the vernacular.

ATTORNEY TURNED AUTHOR

As a young lawyer with what he describes as a “pretty run-of-the-mill” day-to-day, he continued to find himself drawn to a good story. “I always had in the back of my mind that eventually I wouldn’t mind trying writing,” he says. “I’ve always enjoyed putting things together for a case and usually searched for ways to put a more creative spin on the buttonedup legal brief.”

His career in law seemingly fueled the fire. “Some of the attorneys I’ve had the chance to meet, and some of the stories they can tell about their experience representing clients and being in the courtroom, borders on what you would read in a great book,” says Cargile. “Small-town lawyers really get to wear a lot of hats when someone comes in the door with a legal issue.”

And while many of those same lawyers aren’t as sensationalized or dramatic as those we often observe on television, Cargile feels there is a creative side to a segment of lawyers who turn to acting, writing, or music as a way to express themselves in a more creative way. He soon found himself doing the same.

“Every year, the Georgia Bar Journal does a fiction

writing contest and every year I would read it and think ‘I want to do this,’” he says. “Finally, in 2019, I decided to put something in it.” It was early 2020 by the time he was notified that he’d won the contest. By then, Cargile says he was in the flow of writing each day and had already begun crafting his first novel. “The email saying I’d won the contest really gave me confidence to keep putting the words on the page,” he says.

Not long after that email, the pandemic spread through the U.S. and COVID-19 shut down the court system for several months, allowing Cargile more time to concentrate on his book. “It basically took me a full year—all of 2020—to write this first novel,” he says.

BLAKE COUNTY LEGAL THRILLERS

Cargile admits he’s never had quite as explosive a case as what’s in his first novel but acknowledges the fictional town in his Blake County Legal Thrillers will sound very familiar to anyone who has lived in Southwest Georgia. “Some of the descriptions as far as the town itself, the local attorneys, the way folks interact and the way they treat each other, they’ll be familiar.”

Legacy on Trial features an innocent man on the run followed by a good old-fashioned jury trial. Local businessman, husband, and father, Lee Acker, finds himself accused of killing his childhood friend, who happens to be the local district attorney and son of a rising U.S. senator. The two families at the center of the controversy have a long history with dark secrets, and the death sparks national attention as it takes place during election season.

Acker is represented by a local criminal defense attorney, Maggie Reynolds, an up-and-comer in Georgia’s legal community. She’s an unusual choice made by the Ackers’ long-time family attorney as they have substantial resources to hire a heavyhitting attorney with a proven track record. Maggie is looking for a big case to springboard her into private practice and the next phase of her career. She is up to the task and mounts a compelling defense for her client.

Despite the amount of effort and work Cargile had already put into writing his story, the truly challenging part came next. “I started working to find an agent or someone to publish it,” he says. “I was having to pitch the story and every agent and publisher wanted a different letter and it made for a difficult process. I’m not a marketing guru.” He’s also not one to openly promote himself.

After what he estimates to be 30-40 rejections,

An avid reader from a young age, Cargile was a bit intimidated by the idea of writing a book himself.

Cargile successfully linked up with an editor who was able to give him some manuscript feedback as well as much-needed encouragement. When Cargile made the next round of pitches, he landed Lary Rosenblatt as an agent and consequently was able to sign a four-book deal with Severn River Publishing.

Although writing a novel has always been his desire, Cargile expresses nothing but sheer appreciation for the process. “It’s been very eye-opening and makes me respect all types of writing backgrounds,” he says. “As a lawyer, you always spend so much time trying to anticipate what might happen next for your client and what could affect their case,” says Cargile. “One of the great things about writing is to be able to enjoy the process and simply look forward to people picking the book up and reading it. I’m excited to share it with people.”

Legacy on Trial will be released April 18, followed shortly after with In Defense of Charlotte on May 16, and The Wiregrass Witness at the end of summer. TM

Joe Cargile will host a book signing for Legacy on Trial at The Bookshelf, 1-3pm on Saturday, April 29.

StayClose

CATCH OF THE BAY Taking advantage of fresh seafood is easy when you vacation on the coast.

Sleepingwith theFishes

There’s

SHRIMPERS

something magical about this quiet fishing village on The Forgotten Coast.

StayClose

If you haven’t visited the quaint fishing village of Apalachicola recently, consider a getaway to Water Street Hotel & Marina. Within walking distance of the center of Apalachicola, the hotel’s charm is due in part to its location on the Apalachicola River. Enjoy the solitude of life by the water. Hang out on your porch and watch the shrimp boats go in and out, enjoy watching the wildlife, or step out and wet a hook near the marina.

Boaters will especially like this spot to headquarter for a week or a long weekend as they can motor right up to the hotel. Boats can be kept in a slip viewable from the generous screened porches on one- and twobedroom suites located on the water view side of the property.

Cooking up your own catch is easy, too, as the suites include full kitchens. Grab your ingredients and side dishes from a nearby shop and whip up a fresh seafood meal to remember. The property also offers a swimming pool and a fitness room. And pets are welcome for a fee.

As always, location is a plus. Apalachicola Bay provides endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including boating, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, hiking and more. You can take a five-minute walk to downtown Apalachicola’s Chapman Botanical Garden to enjoy the scenic green spaces, boardwalk and butterfly gardens. Or explore Apalachicola’s unique combination of history, culture and charm while taking in the waterfront community’s boutique shops, museums, art galleries, and eateries serving fresh local seafood.

There are plenty of great seafood restaurants along the waterfront, including Hole in the Wall Seafood, just a 10-minute walk from Water Street Hotel. Also very near is Up the Creek Raw Bar, where diners enjoy beautiful river views and live music.

PLENTY TO EAT, DO & SEE

It’s easy to spend the day wondering around this little village. Stop in for a beer or three at Oyster City Brewing Company.

StayClose

A RICH COASTAL HISTORY

In the early 1800s, France had significant interest in Apalachicola as a shipping port. In fact, the French government operated a consulate on the second floor of The Grady Building into the early 20th century.

StayClose

Don’tmisstheseother Apalachicolagems!

Oyster City Brewing Company will tempt you with a wide array of brews, including their Hooter Brown, Mangrove and Tates Hell. Can’t decide which one to drink? Order a flight and try several before choosing your favorite.

While Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company is certainly about great chocolate, it’s also about some of the finest coffee ever brewed. Enjoy a cup onsite or take it to-go, but don’t forget to buy a bag to take home with you.

Delores Sweet Shop has been in one Apalach location or another for decades. Your yummy breakfast, lunch, sweet treat or coffee just might be served up by Miss Delores herself. (Don’t miss her cookies!) TM

To book your visit to Water Street Hotel & Marina, search for the property at choicehotels.com. Be sure to find the special rate for Thomasville Magazine readers! No vacancy on your travel dates? You can also consider coombsinnandsuites.com, operated by the same owners.

STAY ON THE RIVER Lodging near the water allows lots of opportunity for observing area wildlife.

You’ll want plenty of napkins and maybe even a lobster bib before you tuck into this juicy dish.

Garlic-Chili “BBQ” Shrimp

2 to 3 tbsp vegetable oil

12 large head-on wild shrimp (10/12 count size), shells left on, deveined

3 tbsp finely chopped garlic

2 tbsp Korean dried red chili flakes (gochugaru)

½ cup dry white wine

½ tsp fish sauce

½ cup unsalted butter, room temp

1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice

2 tbsp chopped cilantro leaves

½ tsp kosher salt

French bread for serving

Salt and pepper

In a large skillet over high heat, add 2 tablespoons of the oil and heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp and sear for 1 minute. Flip the shrimp and sear for 1 minute on the other side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.

The

NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN

SPRING IS A GREAT TIME TO MAKE A RUN TO THE COAST FOR FRESH SEAFOOD, ESPECIALLY SHRIMP.

Justin Devillier’s The New Orleans Kitchen offers up new twists on our favorite fruits-of-the-sea dishes direct from The Big Easy. We’ve also included a savory bread pudding, a great side for seafood of any kind.

In New Orleans, “BBQ” shrimp is a classic dish in which shrimp aren’t barbecued at all (hence the quotation marks), but rather pan-roasted and served swimming in a lavish pool of a butter and Worcestershire–based sauce. It’s rich, messy, and totally delicious.

In the same skillet over high heat, add the garlic and chili flakes. You should still have enough oil to sweat (soften and release aroma without browning) the garlic in the pan; if not, add the remaining 1 tablespoon. Give the aromatics a few quick stirs, then add the wine and deglaze pan, scraping up the flavorful bits (the fond) stuck on the bottom and stirring them into the liquid. Cook the wine, stirring the wine occasionally, until it has reduced in volume by two-thirds, and then decrease the heat to medium.

Add the fish sauce, stirring briefly, then stir in the butter and continue stirring until it emulsifies smoothly. The idea here is to melt the butter into the sauce without separating the butterfat from the milk solids. Your sauce should look creamy rather than oily.

Return the shrimp to the pan, decrease the heat to medium-low, and cook for about 3 minutes total, flipping after the first 1 1/2 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through. Stir in the lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Divide the shrimp and pan sauce among four bowls and serve with hunks of the French bread for dipping.

NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN The

Shrimp and Okra Fritters

8 oz okra, sliced ½ inch thick

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp kosher salt, plus more as needed

½ cup plus 2 tbsp whole milk

1 egg

8 oz wild shrimp, chopped into ½-inch pieces

1⁄4 cup thinly sliced green onions, white and green parts

About 1 quart peanut oil

1 cup aioli

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Line a plate with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss together the okra and olive oil. Spread out the okra on the prepared baking sheet and cook until visibly roasted and fairly dry, 15 to 20 minutes. Set aside to cool to room temperature.

In a clean mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and egg and whisk to form a sticky, shaggy batter with no bits of dried flour remaining. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes. Fold in the shrimp, baked okra, and green onions.

When ready to fry, pour the oil to a depth of 1½ inches in a large heavy-bottomed pot fitted with a clip-on deep-fry thermometer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reads 375°F.

Working in batches to avoid crowding, gently drop the fritters, each about the size of a ping-pong ball, into the oil from just above the surface, being careful to avoid splashing. Fry until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 ½ minutes, then use a clean spoon to gently flip each fritter and cook on the other side for 1 ½ to 2 minutes. Repeat until you’ve used up all the batter, letting the oil return to 375°F between batches and replenishing with fresh oil if necessary.

Transfer the fritters to the paper towels to drain and then transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with a little salt and serve immediately with the aioli for dipping.

Not a fan of okra? Make an equal substitution with summer squash, zucchini, roasted vegetables or eggplant.

Savory Bread Pudding

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

2 cups whole milk

3 eggs

12 cups day-old crusty bread, torn into rough 1-inch cubes

1 tsp chopped garlic

1 tbsp minced shallot

2 tsp thyme leaves

2 tsp kosher salt

Freshly cracked black pepper

The

NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN

Using clean hands, work this mixture together until evenly combined and the bread is saturated with the cream and eggs; give the bread a few squeezes to help it develop a spongelike feel and soak up the creamy coating.

Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared casserole dish and place in the refrigerator to soak for a minimum of 1 hour or up to 2 hours. This soak will help the bread pudding get that custardy, creamy, pudding texture while it bakes.

Coat the inside of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with the butter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream, milk, and eggs, whisking to combine until smooth and lump free. Add the bread, garlic, shallot, thyme, salt, and a few grinds of pepper.

This twist on traditional bread pudding is a great side dish for saucy seafood entrees.

OUR BRANDS Voted Thomasville's #1 Furniture Store Come shop

Healing a

Town

By

Sarah D. Shearer

· Photos by Emily Tucker Photography

Blake Brookerd, owner, Medicine Man’s Corner, Thomasville

Since 1999, Brookerd and his dedicated staff have taken great pleasure in helping customers that soon become like family to them.

Next page: Brookerd with daughter, Robyn Mixon

Iam one of the lucky ones,” Blake Brookerd says unabashedly. The owner of The Medicine Man’s Corner is a lifelong native of Thomasville, and for 23 years has faithfully dispensed helpful medicinal supplements to locals at his small storefront on Smith Avenue.

As Brookerd prepares to enter semi-retirement, he reminisces fondly about his pharmaceutical career spanning several decades. He remembers that as a child he got sick, and Thomas Drugs delivered remedies to his parents’ door. From that point on, he equated the profession of pharmacist with helping people feel better and knew he wanted to do just that when he grew up.

After graduating from the University of Georgia School of Pharmacy, he returned to Thomasville and took a job at Archbold, where he worked for over 20 years. For him, pharmacy has always been more than a career; it is a calling and way to serve his fellow man.

After two decades at Archbold, Brookerd was ready for a change. Through the encouragement of his friend Charlie Rouse, he eventually decided to open his own shop. In the summer of 1999, the doors to The Medicine Man’s Corner opened.

He started small, with a simple product line that grew exponentially over time. Brookerd is a lifelong student and researcher, always eager to find the specific products that will help his customers feel better. His combined knowledge of pharmaceuticals and herbal remedies has garnered trust in his customers for years. When someone walks into his shop, they can be confident in the personal service and education they will find there.

One of his most treasured colleague relationships has been with Patsy Stephens, who joined forces with him from the very beginning. “Blake used his pharmacy background to help people find

alternative ways to help their various medical issues instead of just using drugs,” says Patsy. “I watched him for years help people without overselling them. His eye for quality, effective supplements always impressed me. I learned so much from him over the almost 19 years we worked together.”

Brookerd recognizes that a successful business is all about people and relationships. His eyes light up as he lists person after person who helped him over the years. He’s not a one-man show, but rather a true community member, appreciative of his fellow Thomasville residents.

“It has been the joy of my life to get to know more of the people and families of Thomas County and the surrounding area. I don’t feel I’ve ever gone to work a day in my life,” he says. The business has often been called “Floyd’s Barber Shop” (from The Andy Griffith Show) because so many regulars come in several times a week, sometimes to purchase something and other times just to catch up.

Brookerd’s generation recognizes something invaluable: A business is about far more than moving bottles of pills off a shelf. To make yourself truly indispensable to a small, tight-knit community such as Thomasville, you must get to know people and truly care for them.

Through the years, he has spent may days just listening to people. Often, when a person is dealing with an ailment, they don’t want a solution

Brookerd soon realized that some of his customers didn’t need a cure, they just needed someone to listen to them.

IT’S THE PEOPLE

GOODBerry

Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients in a delicious refreshing drink to lose weight, reduce cravings, and have better digestion!

The Medicine Man’s Corner has lots of ingredients that you can add to your smoothies to boost nutritional content.

PROTEIN POWDER to feel fuller longer

CHIA SEEDS for omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and much more

MCT OIL to diminish cravings and speed metabolism

STEVIA DROPS to naturally sweeten and flavor

FLAXSEED for added fiber, omega-3’s & lignans

MACA POWDER for energy, libido-boosting and fertility enhancing

COLLAGEN TYPE 1&3 to burn fat and support healthy hair, skin, nails, and joints

ORGANIC RED BEET POWDER for increased energy, reduced blood pressure, and much more

Combine fruits and berries, some greens like kale or spinach, and some Greek yogurt with any of these ingredients and start blending for a healthier you this spring!

JUST THE RIGHT THING

Brookerd soon realized that some of his customers didn’t need a cure, they just needed someone to listen to them.

LEGACY PLACES

immediately thrust in their face; they merely want someone to listen. Brookerd has become a master listener and has helped countless citizens just plain feel better.

Now, he is entering a new season and joyfully passes the baton to his daughter and son-in-law, Robyn and Austin Mixon. They recently moved “home” to Thomasville with their young children and will carry on the legacy Blake Brookerd has carefully sown over his lifetime. “I told (Austin), you better take care of my customers. He’ll do very well. Smart guy. Really good wife. Ask him anything you need to know. He’s going to call me every day anyway.”

The business will continue efforts to reach a broader customer base, moving forward with years of experience and wisdom under their lab coats. Brookerd says their products have never been

LEGACY PLACES

Smoothies with healthy supplements can also be blended with dairy products and nut butters for a creamy texture and great taste.

better. Where once he hoped a product might help a customer, now he knows with certainty they offer the best of the best. Their clientele used to be predominantly older folks, but that’s changing, too. Younger people are growing more interested in homeopathic and natural remedies as opposed to going straight to a pharmaceutical approach.

When he set out to open his small storefront in 1999, Brookerd never imagined how well it would do. Serving people, helping them feel better, and becoming an indispensable part of Thomasville’s business community “has been so much better than I ever expected.” TM

RISE CHAMPIONS

COVID-19 has tested us – mind, body and soul. We have experienced pain, tragedy and sorrow. But, our deep commitment to care for those we serve has brought us through the darkest days. We celebrate triumph with those who battled the disease and won. We remember those we’ve lost, with memories of them propelling us forward. Today, we rise to the challenge as champions – better equipped and more determined than ever to fight for the health, safety and peace of mind of our residents and their families.

Music, dance and magic await you at an enchanted week with South Georgia Ballet! Dancers will learn ballet, jazz, acrobatics, choreography & enjoy arts & cra s each day!

June 26-30 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

$110 Registration opens March 1st Register today! Call (229) Sharon K. Patrick D.M.D. Laura Ridley D.M.D. 303 W. Hansell Street General, Cosmetic & Advanced Dentistry Bleaching • Implants • Crowns • Bridges Dentures • TMJ Treatments • Root Canal Treatments www.aconfidentsmile.com

228-9420 M, W, Th, F: 8 AM - 5 PM Tuesday: 1 PM - 8 PM 229.227.1447

Registration Veneers • Crowns • Bridges • Clear Braces Root Canal Treatments • TMJ Treatments • Dentures Implant Restorations 961342

or visit southgeorgiaballet.org Space is limited. Sharon K. Patrick D.M.D. Francisco Garcia D.M.D. GENERAL, COSMETIC & ADVANCED DENTISTRY Bleaching • Implants • Crowns • Bridges Dentures • TMJ Treatments • Root Canal Treatments M, W, Th, F: 8 AM - 5 PM Tuesday: 1 PM - 8 PM 303 W. Hansell Street 229.227.1447 www.aconfidentsmile.com

(must be 3 by Sept. 1, 2022) M, W, Th, F: 8am - 5pm Tuesday: 1pm - 8pm 229.227.1447 303 W. Hansell Street www.aconfidentsmile.com THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | SPRING 2023 | 64

Open the Door BY

KK SNYDER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATION DOOR COUNTY

You’ll have to decide whether to visit Door County, Wisconsin in time for the snow or in time for the sun.

What’s so great about Door County, the thumb of the mitten-shaped state of Wisconsin? Everything! With winter and summer adventures, artisanal cheeses and wines, art studios and Scandinavian tradition, the Door County peninsula is a huge draw for tourists.

Fondly referred to as the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Door County is surrounded by water and includes 30 named islands. We could write volumes on the attributes of this hidden gem, but below are some of the highlights that just might have you loading up the car or booking a flight in record time.

SUMMER LOVIN’

Washington Island hosts the largest lavender farm in the Midwest and is a sight to behold in July and August, when the fields are at their peak. Or get out and hike around the 3,776-acre Peninsula State Park, established in 1909. They’re doing excellent work at the 34-acre Open Door Bird Sanctuary, where visitors can see a golden eagle, a snowy owl, a peregrine falcon and more. In addition, Door County is home to five state parks, one of which is only accessible by two boat rides—a true adventure!

CHEESE, PLEASE

When you think Wisconsin, you gotta think cheese, and Door County is no exception. A whopping 90 percent of Wisconsin milk goes into cheese production. The result? About 120 cheese makers creating nearly 650 cheeses totaling 3.3 billion pounds of cheese each year. Cheese tastings and purchases are available throughout Door County, and the menu at Renard’s Artisan Cheese is especially gooey!

Nearly every water activity you can imagine is available here.

Not a sailor? No problem! Book a trip with an expert and just sit back and enjoy.

PLANNING & DESIGN

Design for Your Wedding Day & Other Special Events

dulce-weddings.com

Photo: Sydney Renee Photography

The rural life abounds in Door County, with cherry orchards, cheese and wonderful Scandiavian culture and cuisine.

Left: A local fireman holds up a tub of whitefish for a fish boil at the Old Post Office Restaurant in Ephraim.

CHERRIES

The cherry industry is a staple of Door County and has a long history on the peninsula. At one point, Door County grew 10 percent of all cherries in the country. Visitors will find cherries used as an ingredient on nearly every menu in the county, most often of the Montmorency variety. They’re also a staple at local orchards and are ripe for the picking from mid-July to mid-August.

SCANDINAVIAN DELIGHTS

Door County became a large Scandinavian settlement in the mid-1800s as it reminded Swedes and Norwegians of their homeland’s bountiful fishing and picturesque countryside. Scandinavians’ love for nature is so deeply ingrained they coined the term “friluftsliv,” the feeling of immersing yourself in nature and in return feeling energized, refreshed and at peace. They also brought to the peninsula the traditional fish boils, such as those at the White Gull Inn, a simple and satisfying meal enhanced by each hosting restaurant’s own recipes, styles, and stories. Most meals include fresh-caught Lake Michigan whitefish with onions, potatoes, and corn. And for dessert? A slice of Door County cherry pie, of course!

Family Style Buffet Restaurant

Enjoy fresh country cooking served buffet style daily in a casual family friendly atmosphere.

Rotating menu features 10-plus meats, 20-plus vegetables, a 70-item salad bar, and over 20 varieties of fresh baked desserts, served every day.

14815 US Hwy 19 S., Ste 100 Thomasville (229) 227-0622

Stickwork artist Patrick Dougherty left his mark on the peninsula last summer when he created “HappyGo-Lucky” shown on the previous page.

CREATIVITY ABOUNDS

More than 100 galleries, studios, and exhibits across the county offer the chance to see a diverse array of art in countless media and styles, and often you can meet the artists behind the work. Currently on display outdoors is the stickwork of artist Patrick Dougherty, who last summer installed Happy-Go-Lucky on Horseshoe Bay Farms. This style of artwork, using saplings as the only material, is quite a commitment, given that they last just two to three years.

Door County Coffee not only has incredible hot beverages, they also have one of the best shops in town.

EXPLORE MORE

ALL THE SPIRITS

It doesn’t get better than the offerings at Island Orchard Cider, where owners employ the Normandy tradition for crafting their top-quality sparkling and dry hard ciders. Next, drop into the spacious Door Peninsula Winery and Door County Distillery, where you can taste to your heart’s content and shop ‘til you drop. Zip over to Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market for tasting and shopping. Or kick back at the family-friendly One Barrel Brewing Company and try a rotating fresh brew or sip on a gluten-free hard cider, fresh out of the barrel.

CULINARY BLISS

Start your day with breakfast (or lunch) at Door County Coffee and then load up the trunk with their special blends. A casual and authentically Italian meal can be had at Sonny’s Italian Kitchen and Pizzeria, where diners also enjoy the waterfront scenery. Shiny Moon Cafe in Egg Harbor offers an intimate space for a tasty lunch, followed by shopping at the 1st floor stores. Save your appetite for brunch at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik, an authentic Swedish family-owned restaurant where you can find goats grazing on the sod roof in the warmer months. Try the Swedish pancakes with lingonberries or homemade Swedish meatballs. And cocktails, supper and bowling on vintage lanes can’t be beat at Sister Bay Bowl, a true supper club especially known for their fried lake perch.

Escape

Just minutes from downtown Thomasville and perfect for your getaway, overflow guests or special occasion Rental includes a double deck, grill, fire pit and beautifully appointed interior, all located on a private pond

WINTER FUN

Find your new favorite adventure sport in fat tire biking, a superb way to get your adrenaline going in the winter. In addition, the Bay of Green Bay is the largest body of water in the continental U.S. that has frozen all the way across in winter for the last 100 consecutive years, making it a huge attraction for ice fishing and the many tournaments and events hosted on the ice each and every winter. Snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing and candlelight night hikes are also available.

For more information on visiting Door County, Wisconsin, see doorcounty.com. TM

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We’re excited to introduce you to Felicia Dilbert. Look for her new column, Beautiful Healing, in each issue!

Beautiful Healing

A NEW COLUMN BY

You’ll find inspiration in Felicia’s story of healing and helping.

FELICIA DILBERT

The following week, Louis encouraged me to attend my friend’s birthday party. Ugh, my back was hurting again, though. After we had been inside for about 20 minutes, my pain subsided. I look up, and in walks Dr. Angel, coming directly towards us!

And just as I boldly declared, the Lord answered my prayer. This woman took care of me. I did everything she recommended that I do. And yes, last December she performed a very successful surgery just like the Lord revealed she would! Hallelujah! I overcame unbelief. I learned that God is still in the miracle-working business. I’m grateful that I didn’t let others convince me otherwise.

PEOPLE: Lee and Phyllis Williams. Family is a big deal to me. Not a day goes by that I don’t speak to my siblings. And my husband, Louis Dilbert, is my gift from God.

So, I have a question for you.

Do you believe in miracles? I woke up in extreme pain in my lower back one morning. My Lou helped me dress and drove me to the hospital. The nurse wanted to look inside and performed a CT scan. She discovered four benign fibroid tumors—the one in my lower back was the size of a cantaloupe.

Without a doubt, I knew these tumors needed to go.

The following afternoon I had a supernatural encounter. I saw myself hugging a doctor I recognized but had never met before. The Lord revealed that she was the one He hand-picked to perform my surgery. I felt excitement rising within me! The Lord was showing me that he was going to perform a miracle. Like the woman with the issue of blood in the bible–I was willing to push through unbelief by any means necessary with the faith that I would reach my healing. I did a Google search on the doctor and called the office she was associated with.

I spoke with a receptionist and learned she wasn’t seeing patients. Welp. I prayed again. I was sick and tired of the pain, mood swings, and hormonal imbalance. With tears rolling down my face, I refused to allow unbelief to creep in. Despite what that receptionist said, the Lord had anointed this great physician, revealing she was the woman for the job! What is too hard for God?

I want you to know that you have power. No one knows your body better than you. Listen to those nudges. That ache? Those mood swings? They might be more than just a nuisance. Your body will communicate with you. I will teach you how to listen to it.

In November 2020, grief thrust me into writing, which provided healing to my hurting heart. I had lost my mom, yet gained a heap of words that introduced me to a new world— the world of beautiful healing. A gift for the broken made new. That’s when I wrote Beautiful Healing, Volume 1-Seven Love Letters for the Truth Seeker’s Soul, and the resource companion, the Beautiful Healing Journal. Both books debuted at #1 on Amazon, in the spirituality and journal writing categories.

Writing the love letters for the book, I began to experience my healing. I was so grateful to hear from God; I didn’t dare doubt a word. Have you ever needed help so badly that you were finally willing to follow directions? That was me.

The cool thing about writing the book is that now I’ve stepped out on the water. And I won’t dare turn back. Every day is exciting. I crossed over to the promised land. That keeps me going. I’m excited to wake up to this glorious life I get to live. I’m feeling better than ever. I do my part, though: I eat foods that nourish me, and I make the healthy choices.

I am very excited about my new column, Beautiful Healing with Felicia, which will appear in each issue of Thomasville Magazine. I always wanted to write my very own column. You can expect to read about how a single choice can change one’s life. For the better. And how healing occurs over life, not overnight. Beauty is all around us. Let’s celebrate!

HEY! MY NAME IS FELICIA. RAISED IN PELHAM, GEORGIA, I AM THE PRODUCT OF TWO HARD-WORKING, HUMBLE-HEARTED

Wanna know a secret? My sweet mama (Phyllis Marie Williams) and I would have the best conversations in the nooks and crannies of the day—those car rides to the grocery store or school and the drive to Belk on the weekends. Those were the moments that mama molded me. She told me I would write best-selling books, that I would touch the world with my voice, and that my voice had the power to heal.

When she died on April 25, 2017, a part of me died with her. And a part of me was born. The part where she told me all that I would become. That part hatched. The months after she passed, that part of me both struggled and supernaturally strengthened. And that part of me is now writing a column. And my good golly, I’m flying!

I don’t just preach about the pathway of beautiful healing—I live it. Through my restoration coaching brand, Beautiful Healing, I’ve created resources that inspire, educate and celebrate women. Whether I’m preparing for a speaking engagement or building a brilliant idea, one thing is for sure: I trust God’s guidance and follow through on what I’ve been directed to do. TM

FELICIA DILBERT earned a bachelor’s in speech communication from Valdosta State University and a master’s in education from the University of Phoenix. She serves as the community manager at The Bookshelf in Thomasville, where she coordinates the Local Author’s Collective, the quarterly community Literacy Shopping night, and co-hosts The Bookshelf’s business files fireside chats, along with Annie B. Jones, owner of The Bookshelf. Watch for her new column in each issue of Thomasville Magazine

Felicia and Lou Dilbert

Embracing the Green Kitchen

By Stephanie Rice

Most of us have heard that it’s important to buy fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce, but does anyone really know why it’s so important? Having a so-called “green kitchen” is not only good for your health, it also benefits your wallet and the environment.

First of all, buying fresh and local means you are getting the most nutrients out of your food. Walk into any supermarket and you’ll find fruit from Mexico and vegetables from California… blueberries in the winter and squash during the summer. Sounds amazing to have that variety no matter what the season, right? Unfortunately, it isn’t.

When food is harvested, picked, packaged, and shipped to the grocery stores, it loses nutrients along the way. So, the longer the produce takes to get to you, the fewer nutrients it will contain. The more local produce you buy, the more likely it is closer to the date it was picked and loaded with more nutrients. Knowing that, buy produce that’s as close to its pick date as possible. Fruit and vegetables will slowly lose nutrients the second they are pulled from the ground or off the vine or stem. This process is called respiration and the produce will break down their own stored nutrients to stay alive. Although some have a slower rate than others, it is important to stay close to the harvest/pick date. For example, broccoli has a very high respiration rate. Refrigeration may help slow it down, but a recent study found that vitamin C levels were almost undetectable only seven days after being harvested.

What about all these price increases we are seeing? How can one avocado cost more than $2? It’s because so much of our food is grown in warm states like Florida, Texas, and California (not to mention all the foreign countries that provide food to the United States) and then has to be distributed all over, which takes lots of energy. A whopping 80 percent of the energy from our food system goes to processing, packaging, transporting, storing, and preparing food. Our food costs are high, in part, because we are paying for food that’s not local or seasonal.

Eating seasonally can also open a whole new world of foods to try. Instead of limiting the diversity of the foods you eat, eating seasonally expands it, offers more nutrients, and helps keep your grocery bill down. If produce has been shipped from

Local Health

another country, it usually does not adhere to the current season where it’s being sold. The human body was designed to eat by the season. There are many reasons to eat seasonally, but here are the big ones:

Better tasting - Closer to the harvest/pick date means more nutrients and better taste.

Money saver - Foods that are in season are at their harvesting peak, therefore more abundant and cheaper.

It isn’t hard to find fresh local produce in Southwest Georgia. Just get out and look! 1 2 3

Supports your local community - Thomasville is blessed with great options for local produce, including these two:

Pasco Farms

107 S. Broad Street

Thomasville

At Relish in the rear of the store

@ pasco.farms

pasco-farms.square.site

The Farmers Market

209 W. Remington Ave.

Thomasville

On the lawn outside Hubs and Hops every Saturday from 9am-1pm

@hubsandhopsmarket

The sooner you eat produce after harvest, the more nutrients it still contains.

How do we know what’s in season? Seasons vary a little depending where you are, but the good news is there is both specific and general guidance available for eating seasonally. All plants go through a similar life cycle: sprouting, leafing, flowering, fruiting, then accumulating sugars in the roots.

Leafy greens are best in the spring. Vegetables that “flower,” like broccoli and cauliflower, and fruits are best in summer. Pumpkin and other root vegetables contain large amounts of stored nutrients for fall and winter. If you want to see what’s seasonal in your local area, search for the seasonal food guide on the Sustainable Table’s website at foodprint.org.

Organically grown food guarantees that we are consuming food that is free of chemicals, pesticides, solvents, and radiation. Not only do these enter into our bodies, they cause water and soil contamination. Organic farms are committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture methods. It is very important to read food labels and make sure they bear the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “Certified Organic” seal. You can also look at the five-digit bar code. If it starts with a 9, most likely it was organically grown.

Buying organic can be more expensive. However, not all produce has to be organic. The Environmental Working Group has conducted extensive research on this issue and has come up with a list called the “Dirty Dozen, Clean Fifteen.” This will help you make an educated decision on whether or not to buy organic. The Dirty Dozen is 12 fruits and/or vegetables that were found to have over 47 chemicals when grown conventionally, so always buy these organic. The Clean Fifteen had little to no traces of chemicals or pesticides, even if they were conventional. My rule of thumb: If it’s on the Dirty Dozen list, buy organic. Period. For other fruits and vegetables, I make an exception. For the complete list and more information, go to ewg.org or do a Google search.

Putting nutrients aside, just think about the environmental impact of buying food that has been packaged, shipped, and transported over thousands of miles. A typical carrot can travel 1,838 miles just to get

Sweet tooth? Eating healthy locally is possible with thoughtfully made treats from Sweet Ellis Bakery or Seasonal Scoops.

into your salad! The amount of fuel and gas emissions puts everyone at risk. Many of these products are also packaged in some sort of plastic wrap or container made with BPA (estrogen-like compound found in plastic), an industrial chemical detrimental to our environment and health. BPA has been thought to affect cell repair, fetal development, energy levels, and reproduction. Some research has linked it to other hormonal issues like thyroid dysfunction.

Whether you choose to buy organic or conventional, make it a priority to at least buy local and seasonal. This will help keep moving you towards building a green kitchen, lessening the impact on the environment, and most importantly, improving your health.

STEPHANIE RICE

B.S. Exercise Science, Jacksonville University

ASCM, Certified Personal Trainer

ACE, Weight Management Specialist

Balanced Body Pilates Instructor

MBG Functional Nutrition Specialist

Fit Fab Life – Owner

fitfablifetraining@gmail.com; fitfablife.biz

March, April & May

Every Saturday Farmers Market

Featuring fresh produce, eggs, meat, flowers, honey, jams, bread, fruits and more! New vendors are welcome. 9am-1pm, on the lawn at Hubs and Hops, West Remington Avenue. For more information, email laura@hubsandhops.com.

March 11

Wander Home Tour

Tour of some of Thomasville’s premier historic homes on Tockwotten and Warren avenues. Self-guided tour begins with champagne toast and brief talk by local historian Charles Olson of Edwards Olson Architecture, 2pm at All Saints Church. Wrap up the day with a cocktail party, 6-8pm, at the Paxton House. Brought to you by Abode Fine Furniture, Thomasville History Center, Thomasville Landmarks, and Rubio Studio, with funds benefitting Thomasville History Center and Thomasville Landmarks. $100/person. Tickets available online at Eventbrite.com; search Wander in Thomasville, GA.

March 14

The Kingdom Choir

TEF presents the London-based gospel group, The Kingdom Choir, the unified sound, warm energy, and enthusiastic stage presence that brought them worldwide attention when they performed at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Ticket availability is very limited for this performance. $38 for adults; $15 for students. 7:30-9:30pm; Thomasville Center for the Arts, East Washington Street; 229-226-7404

March 18

OakFest

The Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center and the Oak Foundation of Thomasville are excited to finally bring the OakFest music festival back to town. Beer, wine, and local food trucks will be available. Kids under 12 are free. Bring your own blankets or chairs. Outside drinks, coolers, and pets are not allowed. $30/person; 3-11pm at the Ritz Amphitheater. For info, see oakfest.net.

March 20

Salute to Spring

Join the Thomasville History Center to mark the vernal equinox at the Lapham-Patterson House. Weather permitting, attendees will view the “light show” created when the sun reaches the point in the horizon to cast shadows onto the third floor from the bargeboard. The best time to view the shadows is 4-5pm. 3:30-5:30pm, 626 N. Dawson Street

March 25

Old Timey Plant Sale

Birdsong Nature Center will host its spring plant sale, including great blueberry plants from Ernest Koone’s nursery in Pine Mountain, Georgia 9am-1pm. On the grounds at Birdsong, 2106 Meridian Road, Thomasville.

April 1

Easter Eggstravaganza

Bring your Easter basket and join us for free games and an Easter egg hunt with over 5,000 eggs. Event sponsored by City of Thomasville and community partners. 11am2pm, Paradise Park; 229-227-7001

April 7

Sip and Stroll

Head downtown to sip, shop, stroll, dine and listen to some great music. Grab a beer or wine from your favorite downtown restaurant or venue and stroll the historic streets in style. Participating shops and restaurants will be open late. Bring your chairs or a blanket and enjoy a free concert, 8-10pm, at The Ritz Amphitheater, 131 South Stevens Street, featuring a different band each month. 6-10pm; 229-228-7977

April 8

Pebble Hill Egg Hunt

Children ages 2 years to 2nd grade are invited to enjoy filling their baskets with Easter eggs from our beautiful grounds. Special “Golden Egg” prizes, games, and other activities. Space is limited. 9amnoon, Pebble Hill Plantation. Tickets and info available at pebblehill.com.

April 14-15

Flower Show

Thomasville Garden Club presents the 102nd Standard Flower Show 2-5pm Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday. Children’s Honeybee Event is 10am-noon on Saturday. Free admission, donations accepted. The Garden Center, 1102 S. Broad St., Thomasville. For info, thomasvillegardenclub.com.

April 15

Due South 2023

Headlining the show will be Reckless Kelly’s, with Thomasville being one of the first stops on his southeastern farewell tour. Also performing: Few Miles South and Tori Lund. Opener, Red Hoss Suckas, take the stage at 6pm. $30 in advance/$40 at the gate. Kids 12 and under free. For info, tickets, or sponsorship, visit ThomasvilleArts.org/DueSouth.

April 28-29

Rose Festival

The 102nd Annual Thomasville Rose Show & Festival is packed with experiences the whole family can enjoy. The Rose Parade, 7pm, April 28. The Rose Fest Market, 11am5pm, April 29 features handcrafted artisans and makers, food trucks, music, and children’s activities. Traditional events include multiple rose and flower shows, the Show & Shine Car & Truck Show, and the Street Dance will return this year. For additional information, contact the Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977.

May 5

Sip and Stroll

Head downtown to sip, shop, stroll, dine and listen to some great music. Grab a beer or wine from your favorite downtown restaurant or venue and stroll the historic streets in style. Participating shops and restaurants will be open late. Bring your chairs or a blanket and enjoy a free concert, 8-10pm, at The Ritz Amphitheater, 131 South Stevens Street, featuring a different band each month. 6-10pm; 229-228-7977

May 6

Legend Music Festival

An evening of great music and great food in support of The Levi Knop Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship honors Levi Knop, who was a senior at Thomasville High School in 2019 when he was killed in a car accident. Local vendors, face painting, axe throwing more. All ages welcome. Follow us on Facebook for the most up to date information, Legend Music Festival. Ritz Amphitheater, Thomasville.

May 13

Pavo Peacock Day

Parade, crafts, food, games, rides, music, drawings, Peacock quilt raffle, family fun for all ages. 9am-3pm; 2061 W. McDonald Street, Pavo

Don’t miss OakFest, this March 18

The Pebble Hill Easter Egg Hunt

Abode

MEET THE ARTIST EVENT

A good time was had by all at Abode’s recent “Meet the Artists” event. Tickets now available for Wander, a March 11 tour of Thomasville’s premier historic homes, benefitting the Thomasville History Center and Thomasville Landmarks.

Thomasville History Center

CHICKEN PILAU DINNER

Hungry folks came from far and wide for the Thomasville History Museum’s annual Chicken Pilau Dinner. Prepared and served on the grounds, this traditional Southern supper supports the museum’s programs and preservation.

Imagine Thomasville

LEADERSHIP THOMAS CLASS AT WORK

Members of Leadership Thomas Class 39, a program of Imagine Thomasville, experience many opportunities throughout the county during their term.

We’re in the goals business. Tell us yours.

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(229) 226-6074