Thomasville Magazine Fall 2023

VOLUME 21, ISSUE 3

COMPLIMENTARY Please Take One

Heritage

Southern Heritage Fine Furniture continues to thrive as a familyowned business

Smoking Success

One Thomasville couple just needed a spark to get their BBQ business off the ground.

EMBRACE a season of FALL FROM PIZZA NIGHTS TO THE ELEVATE ARTISAN MARKET, ENJOY ALL THAT’S GOOD

An ExpEriEncE You cAn SmilE About AlAn G. SAnderS, d.M.d.

ZAchAry J. chAndler, d.M.d.

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One Name.

One Vision.

One Archbold.

Together, We’re Building a Healthier Tomorrow.

Learn more about Archbold’s refreshed brand and other exciting updates, including new names, at A RC H B O L D. O R G / O N E A RC H B O L D

“Your s u c c e s s is our s u c c e s s.”

— STEPHEN H. CHENEY I CEO

M AGA Z I N E 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 This is what banking should be.

For you. About you.

Katie Murray Alt | Felicia Dilbert Kristen Soles McCrackin | Kathy Nolan | Sarah D. Shearer Stephanie Rice | Madison Thornhill

PHOTOGRAPHY I 229.226.3300 I MEMBER FDIC

301 NORTH BROAD STREET TNBANK.COM

Emily Tucker Photography | Jacob Welch

Setting the Standard for Beautiful Smiles “I had tetracycline stain and a really gummy smile.

I never liked my smile, and hated having my picture made. Now when I have my picture made I am SMILING! Dr. Oppenheim is a perfectionist - you know it’s going to be right when you’re done!”

— Diane

207 East Jackson Street Before

Thomasville, GA 31792

WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Thomasville Magazine is published four times each year. Subscription rates are $15 for one year.

As we prepared to go to press with this issue, big news hit Thomasville and I thought it appropriate to share it here. During the annual awards ceremony

SUBSCRIPTIONS

of the Georgia Downtown Conference, the Georgia Downtown Association

ThomasvilleMagazine.com

recognized the City of Thomasville with two Awards of Excellence, including

Subscriptions@ThomasvilleMagazine.com

Downtown of the Year.

Checks may be mailed to:

Of course, those of us for whom Thomasville is near and dear are not at all

Thomasville Magazine

surprised that the efforts of local merchants and city leaders have once again

15125 US Hwy 19 S

been recognized for excellence. And anyone in the world who has ever visited

Box #375

Thomasville will likely agree that it is, indeed, worthy of being named Georgia

Thomasville, GA 31792

Downtown of the Year.

Be sure to specify your delivery address when

Our local merchants work tirelessly to keep the offerings downtown fresh and

submitting a check.

engaging, drawing in great numbers of visitors but also remaining a fun and vibrant environment for those lucky enough to live here 24/7. New events and promotions created by the City of Thomasville mean there is always something to do here.

Changes in the historic downtown over these past 18 months, including the combined expansion of the Downtown Development District and the Downtown Business Park District, resulted in exponential growth, according to the city’s recent press release. The expansion included the award-winning Courtyard by Marriott hotel, the historic Biscuit Company event venue, and the Bracey Lumber Company renovation and historic preservation project, along with many other smaller-scale development opportunities.

The growth and economic impact continued into the year, with the downtown

DIGITAL EDITION & SOCIAL

experiencing 14 new or expanded businesses, bringing 82 additional jobs. A

You can follow us online on our social media

total of $12.4 million was spent on private and public investment, including 10

accounts @ThomasvilleMagazine.

rehabilitation projects and 48 public improvement projects in 2022 alone.

thomasvillemagazine.com

Well done, folks, well done!

KK Karen (KK) Snyder EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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ON THE COVER

Mayor Jay Flowers and his golden retriever, Rhodes, enjoy the fine fall weather from his vintage convertible.

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An Unlikely Sanctuary Many will be surprised to learn of the elephant sanctuary tucked away in a South Georgia town.

Family Heritage When it comes to quality furniture, Southern Heritage offers top-of-the-line goods with friendly service.

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Heart for Community For two decades, Hands on Thomas County has facilitated neighbors helping neighbors.

Pizza Night Whether it’s a weeknight supper or a tailgate treat, making your own pizzas from scratch is fun.

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A Smoking Success One Thomasville couple just needed a spark to get their BBQ business off the ground.

Healthy Living Stephanie Rice shares how to involve the whole family in fun movement activities.

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Elevated Artists A local artisan recognized the need for her peers to come together to sell their handmade wares.

Beautiful Healing Columnist Felicia Dilbert’s latest on healing and self-love.

p.34 IN EVERY ISSUE 6

p.59

Editor’s Letter

69 Downtown Guide 94 Events 97 Social Scenes

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TUCKED AWAY IN AN UNLIKELY CORNER OF THE DEEP SOUTH IS A SANCTUARY OFFERING ELEPHANTS A QUIET RETIREMENT.

Immigrants

BY SARAH D. SHEARER

PHOTOS BY EMILY TUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 11

Elephant Rescue North America keeps humbly quiet about the lifesaving work they do here.

N

estled amid the towering pine trees and vast and verdant fields so characteristic of South Georgia lies a sprawling rural animal farm, not at all unusual for such an agriculturally rich region. But this farm is unlike any other in Georgia because it serves as a forever home for three special guests: retired elephants.

Elephant Aid International, a non-profit devoted to the wellbeing of elephants all over the world, chose Attapulgus, Georgia, for their U.S. location as a safe harbor for retired elephants.

Elephant Aid International was founded by activist and caretaker Carol Buckley in 2009 as part of her ongoing worldwide efforts to care for elephants through innovative and humane caretaking approaches. Carol is the matriarch of this southernmost elephant sanctuary, a tiny but mighty force of nature with long sandy blonde hair and the tan complexion of a woman who has spent her life outdoors. She arrived for our visit on her red four-wheeler, blazing down a dusty road on a hot July morning. Dismounting her

Bo arrived with custom fitted stainless steel caps on the ends of his tusks that were designed to protect them from breakage. Non-essential in a natural habitat environment, they will not be replaced once they fall off.

modern-day horse, she immediately set in with details about her elephants’ morning schedules.

She is confidence and kindness and wisdom all at once as she bounces through the tall grass, passing out blocks of golden turmeric from the South Georgia-based American Turmeric Company to her giant leathery friends.

Stepping foot onto the soil of Carol’s farm feels like standing on hallowed ground. Every square inch of the 850-acre property is known and cultivated by her. For Carol, elephants aren’t merely a side hobby or special interest, they are what she has devoted her life and career to.

Nearly 50 years ago, Carol was studying exotic animals when she met Tarra, an Asian elephant who stole her heart. Carol was a young adult at the time with her whole life ahead of her. Tarra was only a calf at the time and was very spoiled by her owner. She won Carol over and, after two years of bonding and working together, Carol purchased Tarra and has had her ever since. The unlikely pair has traveled the world together, educating countless people on what is truly best for elephants.

Carol’s extensive work in the exotic animal field only deepened her passion for elephant

Carole (right) with Laura Augustine, elephant caregiver

welfare, leading her to educate elephant caregivers on how best to care for these giant and complex individuals. She founded the country’s first elephant sanctuary in Tennessee in 1995 and continued to travel throughout Asia and the world.

In a world that sees elephants as amusing entertainment at a circus or zoo, Carol hopes to refashion the narrative and remind humanity that elephants deserve to be wild and free. They weren’t created to be worked mercilessly their entire lives with no respite. This is precisely why she created a sanctuary to serve as a safe space

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for the retirement and rehabilitation of elephants who have been working tirelessly for decades, sometimes with longstanding injuries and often alone, which is extremely detrimental for the elephant psyche.

After rescuing dozens of these gentle giants, developing life-changing treatments for overworked elephants, and creating and designing chain-free homes for them, Carol was acclaimed and widely respected in the animal rights arena. But she wasn’t finished yet, and this is where Southwest Georgia comes in.

In December 2016, Elephant Aid International purchased 850 acres of land in Attapulgus to create Elephant Rescue North America (ERNA). The question immediately presents itself: Why South Georgia? Many very detailed reasons contributed to the decision, chief among them being Georgia’s notoriously balmy climate.

The weather in South Georgia is absolutely perfect for elephants who

Rescues

LOCAL EXPLORATION

You can imagine the amount of food these gentle beasts can consume each day.

THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 17

Musician Regi Oliver The weather in South Georgia is absolutely perfect for elephants who are used to African or Asian climates. are used to African or Asian climates which are perennially warm and wet. The lush vegetation and natural water sources are also key factors which sealed the deal for Carol.

The first elephant to be retired at ERNA, Bo led a long and exciting life before settling down for his golden years. Born in a breeding facility in Busch Gardens, Bo spent most of his life working in the circus. As a result of his strenuous, decadeslong career, he sustained serious trauma to his legs from doing nonstop tricks. He was a prime candidate for Carol’s tender loving care and tried and true healing techniques.

At just 34 years old when he retired, Bo was still relatively young as elephants can live upwards of 70 years. Typically, elephants don’t have the option to retire. “They work them until they die,” says Carol. Fortunately, Bo’s caregivers thought differently of Bo and decided to give him a brighter and more relaxed future after a long and successful career. He was transported to ERNA in 2021, all 12,000 pounds of him, and has been thriving in the warm weather ever since. A towering beast, Bo is a true creature of majesty and beauty, and because of Carol’s commitment to him and others like him, he can roam his new home freely without a care in the world.

Tarra, Carol’s own elephant, is the second resident at ERNA. She was transported from a previous location and has thrived in her warm and sunny home with Carol, her devoted caregiver.

Tarra, 49, will also have the privilege of living out her days in Attapulgus, unchained, cared for and free.

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Carol’s shirt boasts the Elephant Aid International logo, the organization that oversees ERNA.

Mundi is the most recent addition to the crew, and she is currently the only African elephant in residence.

She is distinct in her appearance, boasting a singular long and beautiful tusk and a hole in her ear. Mundi comes to Georgia all the way from a zoo in Puerto Rico, where she resided for over 35 years as the lone elephant. This is particularly notable because elephants, much like humans, were not created for solitude. Coexisting in elephant communities is vital for their overall wellbeing. Mundi lacked this necessary companionship while she lived in Puerto Rico, but thanks to ERNA, she was gifted a new lease on life.

She was flown to Jacksonville last May and traveled by truck to her new home in the country. Following a warm reception, and after a period of carefully monitored bonding, Mundi soon assimilated with her new friends, Tarra and Bo. Places like ERNA are incredibly educational for humanity. Thinking of elephants as animals whose sole purpose is to entertain is very harmful, and learning about all their complexities and observing the keenness and kindness with which they navigate their world is incredibly inspiring. What a privilege that Georgia gets to be home, sweet home for these special elephants.

For additional information, or to make donations for the upkeep and care of the elephants and new construction efforts for ERNA, visit elephantaidinternational.org. TM

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WHERE YOU DRIVE HOME HAPPY!

all hands The staff and current board members of Hands On Thomas County, in front of their new building, celebrating 20 years of volunteer service to the community.

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s on deck

By Kristin Soles McCrackin

GROUP PHOTO BY JACOB WELCH THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 23

Above: Alston Watt, founder, Hands On Thomas County; next page: Volunteers potting plants to give to seniors in Thomas County

I

t’s easy to see that Thomas County is a community deeply devoted to civic service. In fact, our population of 44,500 people successfully supports over 200 charitable and non-profit groups, not including churches.

Alston Watt had always been a volunteer. When she moved to Thomasville with her husband and growing family, she wanted to connect with all the great things she saw happening in the community, but she didn’t see an easy way to get involved.

“Through Leadership Georgia, I learned about the Hands On Network,” Watt explains. “I thought it would be a good idea to try something like that in Thomasville.”

In 2003, Watt founded Hands On Thomas County (HOTC).

Since then, the local organization has become an integral force in volunteerism in Thomas County and this year celebrates its 20th anniversary.

HOTC serves to connect volunteers to non-profits, needs and service opportunities throughout the area. Simply, it’s a volunteer match service. Executive Director Angela Kiminas talks about their process.

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HOTC thanks the many volunteers who have offered their photography talents over the years, including Charlotte Justine Photography, Hillary Gaultney, Jesica Patton Photography, John Bosman, Michael Serine, and Rosalie Millere.

GIVING BACK

THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 25

GIVING BACK At left: Volunteers cleaning gravesites at Laurel Hill Cemetery; next page: Volunteer group at the Keep Thomas County Beautiful Recycle Center

“It’s not a science. We try to really get to know people and what they like to do or have a passion about. Once you know them you get a good feel for what may be appropriate,” she says. “We ask people to try to keep an open mind about these things, to just give it a try: If they don’t like it, they never have to do it again.

Most of the time they come back and are so happy and enjoyed it so much.”

HOTC planned activities throughout this year to mark the anniversary, starting with a soft rollout in January with MLK service day. Using the birthday theme, they’ve been collecting items for volunteers to build birthday boxes for local kids.

They also launched a goal of 20,000 service hours for the year. Kiminas shares, “Every year it’s a challenge to grow those numbers. We started brainstorming and thought, what if we could hit 20,000 service hours in one year? We are about halfway there. It’s going to be close, but I think we are going to make it.”

The organization now operates from a new space, a quaint 1940s home on East Jackson Street, a huge leap from the 600-square-foot space they’ve been using for the past two decades.

“We have a lot of plans for this property. We are always doing things out in the community, but sometimes that can be a bit more challenging because you have to worry about things like the weather and other people’s schedules. This gives us more control over what we do and how we do it,” says Kiminas.

Kiminas and her co-worker, Program and Events Director Lisa Scully, are truly excited about the volunteer center and the tool bank it now houses. “The volunteer activity center will be open for volunteer projects for people to work on there or we can host projects for other non-profits. We will also open up that space for non-profit partners and volunteer groups for meetings.”

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GIVING BACK Youth volunteer sorting food at Second Harvest.

The tool bank is an innovative idea. Kiminas says they already have a variety of tools and supplies that they use throughout the year for different projects. The tool bank will be open to not only volunteers and non-profits but also to community members interested in learning how to use them to make improvements at their homes or business or in the community, she says, noting how expensive it is to rent or purchase tools and equipment. “Learning how to use them is a big deal, so combining the tool bank with workshops that teach people those basic skills would be huge.”

HOTC’s crowning event comes October 21 with a big celebration on their annual Hands On Thomas County Day, the event on which the organization was built, originally called Make a Difference Day. It’s always HOTC’s largest volunteer day of the year, with their record year reporting 1,500-1,600 volunteers spread across 72 project sites in one single morning. After the work is completed, volunteers will gather for a celebration lunch at the lake, including a photo

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Philip & Alston Watt, then-Governor Sonny Perdue, Diane Parker Williams at first HOTC Day

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GIVING BACK

Previous page: Volunteers installing the disc golf course at MacIntyre Park; this page, far left: volunteers painting murals at the MNW Boys & Girls Club left: Thomasville University athlete painting historic building in Metcalfe

booth, birthday boxes, bounce houses, music and prizes.

Lauren Radford, vice-chair of the board, has served with the organization for the last nine years. “I’d love for everyone to know how much HOTC has been able to contribute to Thomasville and Thomas County over the last 20 years. The numbers are pretty incredible. [We’ve had] 48,550 volunteers performing 298,302 service hours at over 3,283 project sites with 211,557 individuals impacted. That is more than four times the population of Thomas County. The numbers don’t lie!”

For individuals new to Thomas County or those who just haven’t utilized HOTC before, Radford advises them

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GIVING BACK Volunteers at the Cherokee Pollinator Garden

to give it a try. She says, “HOTC makes it so easy to get involved and to find the right fit for your interests and talents.”

Likewise, current Board Chair Tangela Hayes says, “It will be the most exhilarating experience you can have.”

When asked why HOTC has lasted 20 years, Alston Watt says, “It’s been a great success because it’s really leveraged and amplified the can-do attitude that Thomasvillians already have about their community.”

To become a volunteer, or to register your non-profit group with Hands On Thomas County, contact Lisa Scully at 229-226-5200, email info@ handsonthomascounty.org, or visit their website at handsonthomascounty.org. TM

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Photos pages 28-33 by Emily Tucker Photography

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A

SMOKIN

TRAVEL

Succes G s

BY KATHY

NOLAN · P

HOTOS BY

EM

ILY TUCKE R PHOTOG One Thom RAPHY needed a asville coupl e sp j businessark to get theirust B off the g round. BQ

THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 35

Local

SUCCESS

Before he was old enough to drive a car, Climmie got a job at 14 in the restaurant industry at O’Neal’s.

I

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t only takes a spark to get a fire going.

Climmie Mosley should know his way around a Southern kitchen since he first became fired up when his mom became his restaurant role model. Beverly Mosley, a Thomasville soul food legend, and kitchen manager at O’Neal’s Country Buffet, gave eight-year-old Climmie his first culinary challenge when she asked him to prepare roast and rice. Something must have clicked, since today the young prodigy is running his own successful kitchen at Climmie’s H&M Bar-BQue and Soul Food located at 325 North Boulevard in Thomasville. These days, you might run into Beverly helping out at her son’s popular restaurant since her recent retirement.

Before he was old enough to drive a car, Climmie got a job at 14 in the restaurant industry at O’Neal’s. Climmie watched and learned a few things while he was there. He taught himself some new skills in his own backyard, experimenting on his days off. After church one Sunday over 18 years ago, Ashley Guion (now Mosley) had a chance encounter with the aspiring grill master when her sister made the casual introduction. Maybe it was his warm smile or maybe it was the savory Southern food, but Ashley met her soulmate that day.

As the young family grew, the Head Start teacher and aspiring entrepreneur decided to start a

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Local

SUCCESS

The couple’s popular dishes are staff served from a hot buffet.

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weekend side hustle a few years ago to keep the home fires burning. Climmie set up an outdoor kitchen under the carport at their home near MLK Jr Drive and fired up the grill on Fridays and Saturdays. Ashley says, “Climmie’s secret dry rub has a very distinctive aroma. So, we really didn’t have to do anything to let people know when we were cooking.” The smoke signals worked, along with word of mouth. Before long, the couple’s side gig ran Thursday through Sunday. The test marketing was a success.

Sharon Edwards was a fan and a frequent customer. The Spark Thomasville executive director encouraged Climmie and Ashley to join the program’s first cohort, along with a dozen passionate people who also had dreams of starting a business. The group participated in a 12-week series of professional development seminars where local mentors and niche professionals familiarized the group with business fundamentals and, most importantly, connected them with people and resources.

“I wanted more for my family. I always enjoyed cooking, and for 20-plus years I was working for someone else. So, I finally decided to give it a shot for myself and my family,” says Climmie Mosley. After joining the cohort, the Mosleys garnered third place in the pitch contest, where they presented their business plan and concept.

The couple received a moderate cash prize, a branding consultation, a chamber membership and some great press.

In November 2021, Thomasville Mayor John Flowers presented an official proclamation congratulating Climmie and Ashley Mosley on launching their local restaurant in Thomasville.

Following the ceremony, Climmie posted this quote on social media “Thank You God—We appreciate all of our supporters. Thank you, Spark Thomasville, for all that you do. This is an awesome program that helps entrepreneurs get their business started. It is very educational, and I highly recommend it.”

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Local

SUCCESS

DeShay Williams, current executive director of Spark Thomasville, recently welcomed a new class to the program in August 2023. Spark Thomasville is a local nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to turn big ideas into action plans. The 12-week program offers business training, support, and affordable resources to entrepreneurs who are under-represented in Thomasville, empowering them to create sustainable successful businesses.

Today, the carport is closed, but patrons can still follow that special aroma to Climmie’s H&M Bar-B-Que and Soul Food’s walk-in restaurant, featuring a cafeteria-style buffet with a revolving menu of Southern staples and grilled favorites. The restaurant opens for lunch at 11am, Thursday-Sunday, with extended hours until 5pm on Friday and Sunday.

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313 Smith Avenue Thomasville

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You won’t find any mirrors, but there is plenty of smoke on the screened porch. That is where the real magic happens. Three smokers send out that familiar signal while the daily specials are seasoned with a custom dry rub before being cooked low and slow over oak and hickory. An additional smoker is available for events and catering.

The ribs are the restaurant’s most popular item, but Climmie is partial to the oxtails. Ashley recommends the roast. All carnivores will love this special place that also serves smoked chicken, pulled pork, Boston butts, rib tips, fried chicken, turkey wings, grilled pork chops, chitterlings and smoked hamburger steaks. The staff-served buffet selections include soulful Southern sides and vegetables that are locally sourced from Lewis Produce and seasoned with love. Check the restaurant’s Facebook page for the daily menu.

Ashley says “the secret is not in the sauce, it’s in the dry rub. The real trick is the combination of the flavors.”

Climmie encourages patrons to try the meat before adding sauce. Mosley’s daughter, De’Nariah,18, is following in her dad’s culinary footsteps. She began “working” in the family business at age nine. Sister Ca’Leria, 14, runs the cash register and brother Christopher, 20, attends college at Columbus State University. Climmie found a great recipe for success and Ashley gets to run the business side with her old flame. TM

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Hungry customers follow that special aroma to Climmie’s H&M Bar-B-Que and Soul Food.

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LET US MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME M A C O N / TA L L A H A S S E E / C O L U M B U S A L B A N Y / S A N TA R O S A B E A C H / E A S T P O I N T

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SELLERSTILE.COM 229-435-7474

Elevating Artisans

By Katie Murray Alt

B

orn and raised in Thomasville, with a love of horses and her family’s Christmas tree farm, Della Lovett never saw a move to Grady County in her future.

That is, until she met and married Grady County boy Jeff Lovett in 1987. Add that to a long list of things Della never saw in her future, including hosting an artisan market in her backyard.

And yet, for the last seven years, artisans from both nearby and as far away as Texas have flocked to Cairo, Georgia to display their hand-crafted goods. Last year, over 5,000 consumers walked throughout the Lovetts’ pecan grove, shopping for handmade items showcased by painters, potters, woodworkers, jewelry makers, metal workers, fiber artists, gourmet food creators and more.

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Della lives with her husband, Jeff, who owns a radio station in Cairo and runs Summerhill Creative, alongside their son. The Lovetts’ 20 acres filled with Christmas trees, alpacas, and pecans is where the artisan market is annually held.

A WINDING ROAD The long journey to hosting her own artisan market began a decade ago after Della was badly injured in a motorcycle accident and received doctor’s orders to sit and let her bones heal. “A lady in my church taught me to knit so I could be productive with my hands while I sat still.” says Della. “It turns out I had a knack for it.”

Not long after, her horse died, and Della sensed her lifelong love of horses had come to a natural

Makers&

MARKETS

This page: Della Lovett dreamed of providing a space for true artisans to showcase and sell their wares; previous page: attendees at last year’s Elevate event.

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Makers&

MARKETS

What makes Elevate unique is that there is no charge, booth fees or profit-sharing required of the artists. This is not an arts and crafts show; every item displayed and sold must be handmade by the artist.

end. Still, she knew she wanted something to be on the land around her. “Because he’s so creative, Jeff suggested I grow my own yarn,” she says. “My mind went to sheep, but he pointed out that every time we went to the Sunbelt Ag Expo I ended up in front of the alpacas.” Within three weeks, she had sold the horses and started her own alpaca herd.

For Della, the alpacas serve one main purpose—their fleece. “Alpacas are worthless except for their fiber. You can’t eat them, you can’t ride them, and they are not pets,” she says.

“My animals know me, love me, and trust me, but they won’t even let me touch them.”

A shearer comes down once a year to shave the wooly critters. From there, Della ships the fiber off to a processing mill. It returns to her as either yarn or roving—the last step before yarn— from which she creates a variety of products from the ultra-soft alpaca fiber. Sold through her business, Maisie Daze Fleecery, her products include hats, socks, shawls, scarves, and bowties, along with dryer balls and alpaca fleece-wrapped soaps. Each skein of yarn is sold with a picture of the alpaca it came from, its name—all Irish—and a short biography of the animal.

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Makers&

MARKETS

NEW DIRECTION Word quickly got around town about the new pack of alpacas at the Lovetts’ home, and Della regularly received questions about what she planned to do with them. After explaining her new knitting venture, “They would tell me about what they did, creatively speaking,” says Della.

“And every time they would share without fail that nobody knew they did it. They would just make it and give it away.”

Fueled by inspiration from attending a nearby fiber festival and a word of encouragement from Jeff, Della began thinking about all the people who told her about their creative outlets that no one knew about. “I was initially reluctant, but

Design for Your Wedding Day & Other Special Events dulce-weddings.com Photo: Sydney Renee Photography

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Makers&

MARKETS

[Jeff] planted that seed,” says Della. “I thought about it and thought about it.” Della eventually committed to holding her own artisan market in their hometown. That was 2016 and she is now entering into her eighth year hosting the Elevate Artisan Market.

“That first year we had 40 artists, and 200 visitors came. I was ecstatic,” says Della. “The next year, there were 80 artists, and 500 came. Then, 120 artists and 1000 came. Last year, there were 163 artists and over 5,000 people.” Elevate has been recognized by Explore Georgia, Georgia Travel, and Georgia Grown as one of the “must visit” events in Georgia during the fall.

“It’s a one-woman show until the day of and

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Makers&

MARKETS then it’s run by volunteers without a glitch,” says Della.

Everyone from her children and friends to the Whigham Boy Scout Troop and the FSU medical students pitch in to help make the show a reality. Her only charge is $5 for parking to help cover costs for porta-potties, advertising, setup, etc.

This year’s market is planned for October 28 at 644 Hall Rd in Cairo, and gates open at 10am. Vendor spots are already filled, with a long waiting list.

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HANDMADE IS BEST What makes Elevate unique is that there is no charge, booth fees or profit-sharing required of the artists.

And unlike other similar nearby events, this is not an arts and crafts show. Every item displayed and sold at Elevate must be handmade by the artist. “It’s one of the things I am passionate about. I require everything to be handmade,” says Della. “Even our food artists—we don’t do frozen food. Elevate is an artisan market and people want to know that it’s hand-created, so our food has to be hand-created.”

One of her personal favorite vendors is A New Chapter Art. “The artist takes old books that are headed to the trash pile, and she uses a hand saw to cut designs into

Della with her fur babies, labradoodle sisters Idgie (left) and Vada (right).

Keeping the promise.

Quality Car Insurance Coverage Thomas County Farm Bureau 2376 GA Hwy 122 | Thomasville, GA 31757 | 229-226-0431 Home • Auto • Life • Bank THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 53

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MARKETS

951 S Broad Street • Thomasville, GA 31792 Phone 229-228-4130 • Fax 229-226-4690 ThomasvilleFamilyMed.com OUR PROVIDERS

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them,” says Della. “What she does is amazing, and it’s so unique.” The artisan, Dana Darwin, has been displaying her craft at Elevate for the past six years.

This year’s market is planned for October 28 at 644 Hall Rd in Cairo, and gates open at 10am. Registration is currently at capacity with 158 vendors (and a long waiting list) traveling from Alabama, Georgia, Florida and across the Southeast. Of course, Maisie Daze Fleecery will be there with dryer balls, yarn, and every hand-knitted item you can imagine. Each visitor will be entered into an hourly drawing for a gift basket from one of the artists.

“The visitors love it because my artists give wonderful donations,” says Della. “It’s nothing that I do. It’s the artists that make the market. I just provide the place.” TM

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Locally Owned Since 1969 Custom Beds Tempur-Pedic Dealer 14606 U.S. 19 South Thomasville 229-226-8650 thomasvillebedding.com

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Beginning November 11 Ride up to the grove on an antique tractor & wagon, clip your own fruit, sip assorted juices, enjoy some sweets & ice cream, shop our citrus items, take a selfie in our oversized farm chair, an antique tractor, or Clementine, our orange 1964 Ford farm truck. There is something for everyone! Be sure to check out our website for details.

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New Listing!

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spotlight

IN THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA, ONE FAMILY’S LEGACY CONTINUES WITH A SECOND GENERATION.

business

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Photos by Drew Balfour of Balfour Media

By Madison Thornhill

bringing HERITAGE to a new generation S

ome things just get better with age.

Did you know leather strengthens as it is used and worn? There is beauty in ageing leather, as a patina develops that creates character and personality. Leather patina is an unmatched quality of fine leather, and while it can be manipulated, it’s hard to fake the real thing.

Like leather, your home should have a level of quality that stands the test of time. Making memories is what makes a house a home, and those moments deserve to be made in comfort, with beautiful taste and fine quality in mind. Since the Williams family opened Southern Heritage Fine Furniture in 2008, they have lived by the simple principle of welcoming customers as they would their own family.

Mark and Patricia Williams weren’t newcomers to the furniture business, as both had experience and passion for interior decorating and the furniture industry. Patricia had a very vivid dream of opening her own furniture business, and she and Mark turned that dream into a reality. In 2019, Clint Williams bought Southern Heritage from his parents and opened a second location a few minutes away in downtown Thomasville.

Continued, p.65

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Clint Williams (photo by Emily Tucker Photography)

Business

SPOTLIGHT

With the addition of a second store in 2019, local customers and travelers to Thomasville can find even more brands and styles of home furnishings to meet their needs.

The store offers a complete look, including accessories, fabrics, pictures, lamps, and florals.

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Business

SPOTLIGHT Southern Heritage prides itself on its quality product offerings and their unmatched customer service.

Just like his mom, Clint came from a background in sales and the furniture industry. Vital in the operations of Southern Heritage prior to taking ownership, Clint credits his parents with laying the foundation for what Southern Heritage represents and setting the standard for their reputation.

“The value we got from working together is seeing our faith grow and seeing the needs of our customers and our family be met,” says Clint.

Sure, they meet furniture needs, but what they really offer is a lifestyle investment.

“We are just good old Southern people that want to help people find furniture and create rooms that they will love. Buy something here and it will last a lifetime,” says Clint.

Southern Heritage prides itself on its quality product offerings and their personalized, unmatched customer service.

“Our service will outshine any other furniture store in the industry. From the time they pull into the parking lot until the furniture is delivered, we strive for excellence,” says Clint, who credits his team for being knowledgeable in furniture sales but also for having great taste. He views his employees as more than sales consultants but rather design consultants and tastemakers.

And Southern Heritage is more than furniture, offering all the complementary additions to complete a look, including accessories, fabrics, pictures, lamps, and florals. They offer interior decorating services at their downtown location.

Fine furniture is highly sought after because it is made to be beautiful but also to last a lifetime.

Trends come and go, but traditional and timeless styles made of high-quality material are the hallmark of Southern Heritage.

“South Georgia just doesn’t follow trends as much as big cities,” says Clint. “We don’t really follow trends, but we do pay attention to them. A lot of the trendy options at market wouldn’t sell here in South Georgia,” says Clint.

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For more than a century, Whitehurst, Blackburn & Warren has given the personal attention to our clients that we would want our own family members to receive. We continue that legacy of commitment to our clients... no matter what storm you are facing.

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Se habla Español

Business

SPOTLIGHT

A second-generation owner, Clint Williams purchased Southern Heritage Furniture from his parents Mark and Patricia Williams and opened a second location in downtown Thomasville.

Southerners don’t want pieces that are considered “country.” They prefer timeless pieces that can be passed from generation to generation, thus the inspiration for Southern Heritage’s namesake. The store’s reputation draws customers from a two-hour radius of Thomasville.

With the addition of a second store in 2019, local customers and travelers of Thomasville can find even more brands and styles of home furnishings to meet their needs. Southern Heritage was one of the many businesses that experienced inventory shortages during the pandemic, but now with more inventory than ever before, they stand ready to serve customers ready for a new piece, a new room design, or a full house of new furniture.

As for the future of Southern Heritage, Clint doesn’t plan to sit still.

“I want to continue to grow and be better at what we are doing than what we do now,” says Clint.

And if Southern Heritage is anything like the leather furniture on their showroom floors, it will get even better with age. TM

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FIELD GUIDE

thomasville wins downtown of the year award Representatives from the City of Thomasville receiving Thomasville’s Downtown of the Year award from the Georgia Downtown Association.

Pictured from left are Andy Goodwin, Madi Cook, Angel Clemmons, Sheryl Sealy, April Norton, Brandy Avery, and Georgia Downtown Association Board Member Aundi Lesley.

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FIELD GUIDE

Celebrating 10 Years!

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The Mitchell House 102 West Jackson St. Thomasville, GA THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 71

DOWNTOWN THOMASVILLE

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OUR BRANDS · Voted Thomasville's #1 Furniture Store. Come shop unique selections!

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DOWNTOWN THOMASVILLE

SCAN HERE OR VISIT THOMASVILLEGA.COM FOR EVENT LISTINGS AND OTHER WAYS TO

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CHAMPIONS

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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.

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CAMELLIA GARDENS OF LIFE CARE

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pizza party

Whether it’s a weeknight at home, a Saturday tailgate, or a special celebration, homemade pizza is always a hit. And it’s an opportunity to get everyone to help as they can all create their own custom pies.

PROSCIUTTO & ROCKET Makes one 9½ inch pizza Easy Apple Dumplings

8 oz Neapolitan pizza dough ball (see page 81) 1/3 cup San Marzano tomato sauce (see page 81) 4 basil leaves, torn 2¾ oz fior di latte, torn extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling 6 slices prosciutto handful of rocket (arugula) 1–2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of the cold oven. Set the oven to its highest temperature (ideally 500°F fan-forced) and preheat for 1 hour.

Following the dough instructions on page 81, pat and stretch the dough ball out to form a 9½ inch circle. Spread the San Marzano tomato sauce over the dough and top with the basil and torn fior di latte. Season with a pinch of salt and drizzle with a little olive oil.

Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the crust is golden and cooked through, and the cheese is melted. Top the pizza with the prosciutto and rocket and drizzle with a little more olive oil, if desired. Finish with the parmesan and enjoy!

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PEAR, LEEK, GORGONZOLA & WALNUT NEAPOLITAN Makes one 9½ inch pizza 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 3½ oz leek, white and pale green part only, sliced 8 oz Neapolitan pizza dough ball (see page 81) 2¾ oz fior di latte, torn 1¾ oz gorgonzola 12 thin slices pear small handful of rocket (arugula) 12 walnut halves, toasted and chopped extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of the cold oven. Set the oven to its highest temperature (ideally 500°F fan-forced) and preheat for 1 hour. Add the olive oil and leek to a frying pan over medium–low heat. Season with a little salt and pepper and sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the leek is softened and just cooked through.

Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Following the dough instructions on page 81, use your hands to press, pat and stretch the dough ball out to form a 24 cm (9½ in) circle. Top the dough with the leek, torn fior di latte and gorgonzola.

Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the crust is golden and cooked through, and the cheese is melted. Top the cooked pizza with the pear, rocket and walnuts. To serve, drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

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SMOKED BUFFALO MOZZARELLA, LEMON & ARTICHOKe NEAPOLITAN Makes one 9½ inch pizza 8 oz Neapolitan pizza dough ball (see page 81) 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 2¾ oz smoked buffalo mozzarella, torn 6 very thin slices lemon, seeds removed 3-4 thyme sprigs, leaves picked, plus extra to garnish (optional) 6 thin wedges marinated artichoke hearts basil leaves, to serve (optional) Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of the cold oven. Set the oven to its highest temperature (ideally 500°F fan-forced) and preheat for 1 hour.

Following the instructions on page 81, use your hands to press, pat and stretch the dough ball out to form a 9½ inch circle. Lightly brush the dough with the olive oil, then top with half the mozzarella and all of the lemon, thyme and artichoke. Add the remaining cheese, then season with salt and pepper.

Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the crust is golden and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Drizzle the pizza with a little olive oil and scatter with basil or thyme leaves, if desired.

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1 lb 2 oz 00 pizza flour or bread flour, plus extra if needed and for dusting 2 tsp caster (superfine) sugar 1¾ tsp fine sea salt 1 tsp instant dried yeast 11 oz lukewarm water 3 tsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for greasing Note: This is a high-hydration dough, so it is wet and sticky compared to a drier bread dough.

Depending on room temperature, proofing can take up to 4 hours. Do not use a rolling pin to shape your pizza dough, as this will deflate it.

To use a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and combine the flour, sugar, salt and yeast in the bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the water and olive oil. Turn the mixer to low speed, slowly add the water and oil and mix for 2–3 minutes, until the dough forms a rough ball. Rest the dough for 1 minute, then mix for another 1–2 minutes, until a smooth ball forms. If the dough seems too wet and sticky, add another tablespoon of flour and mix for another minute to combine.

To mix the dough using your hands, combine the dry ingredients in a bowl. Combine the wet ingredients in a separate bowl, then use your hands to incorporate the wet and dry ingredients together. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, until a soft, smooth dough forms, and shape into a ball.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover tightly and allow it to rest in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into a ball and place on a lightly oiled tray, then cover and allow to rise for at least 3–4 hours, until doubled in size. Alternatively, for a slow rise that will increase the flavor of the dough, follow the instructions above, but place the portions of dough in individual lightly oiled airtight containers, with room to rise. Seal and refrigerate overnight, or up to 3 days. Allow the dough to rise for 4–6 hours, until doubled in size.

SHAPING THE DOUGH Sprinkle a work surface with flour, place a dough ball on top and lightly dust with a little more flour. Place your hands in the centre of the ball and push and stretch the dough out to a 9½ inch circle. Take care to not deflate the air bubbles in the outer ½ –¾ inch edge, as these will create a beautifully aerated crust. Your dough is now ready for topping and cooking.

Makes about 2 cups

Makes 1 lb 15 oz dough or four 9½ inch pizzas

SAN MARZANO TOMATO SAUCE | BASICS

NEAPOLITAN PIZZA DOUGH | BASICS

1 lb 12 oz tin of San Marzano tomatoes 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 3 basil leaves Drain the tomatoes in a colander with a bowl underneath to catch the juice. Drain for a couple of minutes, then place the tomatoes in a separate bowl and save the juice for another use. Crush the tomatoes into small pieces using your hands, then add the oil, basil leaves and a good pinch of salt.

Stir together and place the sauce in an airtight container. The sauce will keep in the fridge for 4–5 days.

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Family connection is the key to helping your children flourish as they grow.

Flourishing Families How you can help your children develop self-acceptance, purpose in life, positive relations with others, personal growth, environmental mastery, and autonomy.

BY STEPHANIE RICE

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For Your Health

W

ith social media, Netflix, and smartphones or tablets, it’s easy to get lost in a digital world and become lazy about family activities.

Because, let’s face it, sometimes it’s easier to put your children in front of a screen… hello Disney Plus! Out at a restaurant?

Smartphone to the rescue. At home? Put them in front of the TV. In the car? Tablets for entertainment.

The problem with all these scenarios is it takes away from true family connection.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a good movie night with my kids. Although it may seem easier as a parent to let your kids indulge in the media world, it is not benefiting our children, mentally or physically, or growing strong families both mentally and physically.

In May 2022, the journal Pediatrics published a study that “sought to determine whether higher levels of family connection are associated with a greater prevalence of flourishing adolescence.”

The “family connection” was based on five factors: care, support, safety, respect, and participation. The “flourishing” was based on six factors: self-acceptance, purpose in life, positive relations with others, personal growth, environmental mastery, and personal autonomy.

They surveyed over 37,000 adolescents and found that when a family had great connection, meaning they followed the five factors above, the children had a higher prevalence of flourishing in each of those six factors above.

One of the best ways to increase family connection and flourish is to get involved with your children. Of course, attending their school and extracurricular activities helps boost self-confidence and makes them feel supported. But how can we get involved with our children in ways that also benefit us as adults? We do this by participating in family activities that get the parent and the child MOVING! Showing kids that exercise and movement can be fun is crucial. Not only does it help deepen connections, but it also sets them up for a healthier lifestyle as adults and helps them perform better in their school work.

Movement, especially when we focus on it being enjoyable instead of a task, helps take your mind off the activity at hand. Fun movement that’s repetitive, rhythmic, and multisensory like jumping, skipping rope, dancing, hopping, or throwing a ball are great ways to engage the body, not just the mind. This foundation is excellent for creating the perfect activities to interact with your children, creating flourishing connections and helping them absorb information and retain it longer.

Here are some ideas on how to get active and bond with your kids.

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#1

Who doesn’t love a friendly competition?

Now this can get really fun and work up a good sweat, but it can also get a little crazy. Just remember that this is supposed to be fun!

Start by picking two or three exercises. For example, long jump, bear crawl, and side shuffle. Mark starting and finishing lines. Everyone lines up at the starting line and races to the finish line doing the selected movement. The winner gets high fives and hugs. You can also do movements like squat jumps and burpees. Instead of racing a distance, see how many you can do for a set amount of time.

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For Your Health

#2 Move for fun!

Pick a song that has an upbeat rhythm, set up different stations for jumping, pushups, squats, hopping on one foot, tossing a ball up in the air then catching it, and dancing. Set a timer to go off every 20 seconds.

Everyone starts at one station and does the movement until the timer goes off and then you switch to the next one, and so on until the song ends. You could also work on counting and count to 10 or 20 instead of setting a timer. Parents can join in on the stations and/or encourage the kids at each one. This gets parents active, too! Laugh and talk about how great they are doing. If you create a station where they can do what they want, it helps promote creativity. A movement session like this promotes strength, coordination, laughter, creativity, and togetherness.

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LAW FIRM, LLC

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For Your Health

#3

Take a walk I know, this seems like the most basic activity to do as a family. But during the walk you can play games like I Spy with My Little Eye or Twenty Questions. Or you can tell your kids funny stories from your childhood that make them laugh and help them relate to you more. Challenge the family to go every single night after dinner and to go a little further or faster every week.

Again, taking the time to move, play, and enjoy your family shows them how much you care and support them. It promotes the feelings of safety and respect. All these lead to healthier bodies and minds because they are being physically active and developing self-acceptance, purpose in life, positive relations with others, and personal growth.

Plus, the parent gets all the benefits of physical activity while bonding with their children. TM

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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

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203 East Washington Street Thomasville, Georgia 31792 229-228-4333 26 2nd Avenue SW Moultrie, Georgia 31768 229-985-1590

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BEAUTIFUL HEALING

Beautiful Healing WITH FELICIA DILBERT

“Nurturing yourself is not selfish–it’s essential to your well-being.”

- Renee Peterson Trudeau, author of The Mother’s Guide to Self-Renewal

W

hile celebrating my birthday earlier this month, I wrote my annual list of goals for the year ahead. My word of the year is flourish. Where did I want to go, and what did I want to experience? A trip to the West Coast and cultivating the very first Beautiful Healing Retreat made the list. I couldn’t ignore the word healthier popping up, though. Digging deeper, I realized this word would not have popped up if it was a part of my current reality.

Hmmm. I added it to the list. Since creativity destroys second-guessing, I daydreamed about what healthier could look like. How would I feel if I was healthier? Would I have more energy? Perhaps I would have more confidence if I were healthier.

I wrote a recipe named One Glowing Recipe. Not

sure why I called it that. It felt fun, so I went with it.

Ingredients include: Two cups of prayer, a teaspoon of cinnamon (which keeps blood sugar intact), a cup of positivity, a pinch of excitement, and a swirl of mindfulness. It is a motivational shake, chock-full of fun and yummy goodness.

As I prepared my lunch the following day, I imagined drinking my motivational shake with every meal. Chronic illnesses are no joke. Managing doctor appointments and medications takes a mental toll on a person. I needed to think through the exercise part. I do not like lifting weights at a gym surrounded by bodybuilders. Since I was a ballerina and enjoyed jazz classes in my formative years, I could see myself enjoying that again. And even though I feel self-conscious working out with others who may be more advanced than me, I knew I needed to attend a live class to see results. Online THOMASVILLEMAGAZINE.COM | FALL 2023 | 91

BEAUTIFUL HEALING

Beautiful Healing stuff is an excellent option, but synergy is exhilarating. I was ready to jump in.

When I’m serious about a goal, my insecurities about that goal tend to shrink.

I saw an advertisement on Instagram for barre classes at Glo Studios and clicked to get more information. This had to be a sign. I mean, wow! Kirsten Strickland, Glo owner, called me. We connected instantly.

I thought I would be hesitant to talk about my weight concerns, but I felt safe being fully transparent about my current health challenges with hypothyroidism and type 2 diabetes as well as my desire to heal from the inside out.

We both have a heart for helping women experience freedom. I shared how writing my first book, Beautiful Healing, empowered me to tell my story while assisting women to pursue their own unique paths to a better life. Kirsten believes in me and wants to do everything she can to help me glow from the inside out.

As the Glo Ambassador, I’m excited to share how I will continue showing up for myself, celebrating wins, and overcoming challenges on my health journey with The Glo Community. Glo Studio Manager Autumn Simunek Conrad is a supportive light, and has already shown me new moves and My Fitness Pal hacks! I’m excited that Kirsten and Autumn have linked arms with me as I take each step on my health journey.

I’m looking forward to learning more about nutrition, personal training with Autumn and moving at a pace that feels comfortable, yet challenging. Woo hoo! This is what it looks like to show up for yourself. Taking action bears fruit! This doesn’t have to be complicated, though. I decided it would be

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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, Files from the Bookshelf fireside chats, and the quarterly community Literacy Shopping night, and co-hosts The Bookshelf ’s fireside chats, along with Annie B. Jones, owner of The Bookshelf.

fun. I’m doing this!

Before bed, I re-read the last love letter in my book. While reading it aloud, the following part of the mantra felt different: I believe that I can beautifully heal. I have decided that I am willing to discover answers and face myself. Yes! I proclaim that I am not okay with staying the same. I was created for this. I am open to experiencing my Beautiful Healing. I’m willing. I’m looking ahead. I can look up and smile. I am listening. I accept myself just as I am. I am real. I am strong. I will embrace my path. Today, I am taking my first step onto my path of Beautiful Healing.

With a new perspective, I slept like a baby.

How can you show up for yourself today?

I would love to link arms with you! Email me at Hello@FeliciaDilbert.com. Here’s to healing! TM

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Follow our community!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

^ Above: The late Glenn Woodard is the inspiration for the ALS Walk in Thomasville.

ALL FALL September 16-22 Pines & Palms Art Exhibit Visit the contemporary/abstract exhibition called “Transcendence,” featuring works of featured artist Earl Washington along with 10-12 local artists. At Covey Nest, 210 W. Jackson Street. Opening reception is September 15 at 6:30-8:30pm.

For info, visit pinesandpalms.org.

September 23 Walk to Defeat ALS Thomasville resident Renae Woodard lost her husband, Glenn, to ALS in 2020, just two years after his diagnosis. But even before that, she participated in and hosted local ALS walks in support of the Georgia ALS Walk. The events help raise awareness and money for ALS research, and all money donated through the walk stays in Georgia to support Georgians living with ALS and their families. Renae’s goal this year is $6,000. To participate in the Thomasville walk, email walk@alsaga.org.

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Family and friends of the Woodard family join together in his honor every year to raise awareness about ALS.

COMMUNITY EVENTS < Enjoy the Plein Air Paint Out by Pines & Palms

October 4-7 Plein Air Event Pines & Palms hosts the annual Plein Air Paint Out, featuring wellknown regional artists such as Phil Sandusky, Orit Reuben and Randy Pitts. The event wraps up with an exhibition Oct. 7 at Covey Nest, 210 W. Jackson Street. For info, visit pinesandpalms.org.

October 5 Crate-to-Plate Join the Thomasville History Center for their annual Crate-to-Plate event. Reserve your crate (serves 2), including a hot, ready-to-eat meal from local vendors, one bottle of wine, and a few surprises! Take your crate home to enjoy or dine on the grounds of the history center. For info, visit thomasvillehistory.org.

October 14 Family Movie Night Bring your chairs, blankets, and the whole family for an evening of fun at the fall festival and family movie night at The Ritz Amphitheater.

Kid-friendly activities start at 5pm, followed by a showing of Casper at 7:30pm. For more info, call 229-228-7977.

October 28 Elevate Artisan Market Shop hundreds of artists from across the Southeastern states at this outdoor event, including painters, potters, jewelry makers, carvers, small-batch food artists and more. $5 per car. 10am-5pm, 644 Hall Road, Cairo. For more info, visit elevateartisanmarket.com.

Don’t miss this year’s Elevate market, featuring all handmade items.

October 6 First Friday Sip & Shop Enjoy dinner, grab a beer or wine from your favorite downtown restaurant or venue, and shop ‘til you drop. Participating shops will have extended hours, with many bars and restaurants open until 10pm. Live music at the amphitheater begins at 8pm.

October 10-14 Deep South Fair Annual Thomasville Exchange Club Fair, including rides, games, food, demolition derby, live animals, exhibitors. Gates open at 5:30pm at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds.

For armband discounts, visit deepsouthfairgrounds.com.

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COMMUNITY EVENTS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Dog Collar, Tibetan/Indian/possibly Goan, 18th century, National Sporting Library & Museum Charles Hamilton (British, c. 1861-1867) Zillah, American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog Dog Collar, Dutch, 1793 National Sporting Library & Museum

take-out. 4:30-7pm, Thomas County Museum of History, 725 N. Dawson St., Thomasville; 229-226-7664; history@rose.net

Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar is an innovative traveling exhibition developed in partnership between the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) and the American Kennel Club Museum. This remarkable exhibition marries artwork spanning from the 17th through 21st centuries with almost 70 vintage and antique dog collars from the NSLM’s collection.

Paintings, works on paper, and sculptures on loan from the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog and American Kennel Club collections help develop an understanding of the collar as both art and object and how its design changed in relation to different dog breeds and their evolving relationship. This spectacular exhibition will be at Pebble Hill Plantation November 3 through May 11, 2024. For more information, visit pebblehill.com or call 229-226-2344.

First Friday Sip & Shop Enjoy dinner, grab a beer or wine from your favorite downtown restaurant or venue, and shop ‘til you drop. Participating shops will have extended hours, with many bars and restaurants open until 10pm. Live music at the amphitheater begins at 8pm.

November 7 Ballet on Stage TEF hosts the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company, engaging the broadest possible ballet audience by performing diverse works from classical, neoclassical and contemporary repertoire while developing the next generation of ballet dancers, choreographers and audiences. To order tickets, call 229-226-7404.

Annual Chicken Pilau Dinner Prepared and served on the grounds, this traditional Southern supper supports the museum’s programs and preservation. Eat-in or

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November 9-19 28th Annual Wildlife Arts Festival Thomasville Center for the Arts this year honors precious traditions of the past, recognizes the beauty of our region and the talent of those who transform it into art, and lays the foundation for the next generation of passionate patrons to move the festival forward with purpose and care. Featured artist Brennan Seward will join 70+ artists and artisans who inspire us to celebrate the sporting life through art. For the full lineup of events, visit thomasvillearts.org.

November 19 Holiday Open House Visit Downtown Thomasville for some holiday shopping and dining.

On-street entertainment and fantastic sales. You can also grab a beer or wine from a participating merchant to sip while you shop.

1-5pm. For info, call 229-227-4136.

November 25 Small Business Saturday Support Thomasville shops and restaurants and play a key role in helping our small businesses thrive. This national event is traditionally held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, so explore all of Thomasville, and show your support for small businesses!

SOCIAL SCENES

Pollinator Garden Volunteers gathered at Pebble Hill Plantation in August to take part in the University of Georgia’s Great Southeast Pollinator Census. The 15 minute-long pollinator count was held in the Kitchen Garden. UGA Extension Agent Sydni Ingram presented a program on butterflies and Full Circle Nursery offered pollinator and butterfly host plants for purchase.

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SOCIAL SCENES

School-to-Business Summit Over 70 educators and business leaders gathered at the third annual School-to-Business Summit this summer to build understanding around workforce needs. The event, presented by Imagine Thomasville and sponsored by Thomasville National Bank, was created to bridge gaps between school and business and was held at Southern Regional Technical College.

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