Thomasville Magazine Fall 2016 Issue

Meet Emily Loftiss | Climbing the Ladder | Women's Forum

| Golden Nuggets for Career Rookies

FALL 2016

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www.thomasvillemagazine.com

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Volume 13, Issue 3

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Accepting Applications!

He spent his life giving back to the community he loved.

• FOUNDER John D. “Jack” Kelly March 15, 1931 - July 8, 2015 • PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER Christy Layfield | crlayfield@gmail.com

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Thomasville Magazine is published quarterly by Thomasville Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription rates in the U.S. are $15 annually. Please send address changes along with mailing label from past issue to: Thomasville Magazine, P.O.Box 1855, Thomasville, GA 31799-1855 or email us at subscriptions@ thomasvillemagazine.com.

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42 FALL 2016

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

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61

Lagniappe is Gold

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Meet Emily Loftiss

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Golden Nuggets For Career Rookies

In Every Issue

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50 Years at the Console

12

Brick Street Sweets & Eats

Celebrating Organist Margaret Grady

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Food & Fitness

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Climbing the Ladder

68

Calendar of Events

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Women's Forum

Connect, Network and Stay Informed

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Celebrating Strong Women Through Film

COVER

For Your Business

72 Ledger

Women featured in the 22 under 40 feature on the lawn of All Saints Episcopal Church. Photo by Jennifer Taylor of Rynn and Kate Photography.

Special thanks: Thomasville Fire Department, All Saints Episcopal Church

www.thomasvillemagazine.com

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Perception vs. Reality

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Perception: what a great headshot! She looks so put together and professional, it must have been taken in a nice studio. She has it all.

Reality: it was supposed to be a family shot with my kids.

The photographer (my sister, thank goodness) showed up early. I threw on my clothes and attempted to wipe down the kids and color coordinate our outfits. We spent 30 minutes trying to take the shot in my bedroom, where I’d quickly cleared the clothes off the floor, made the bed, cleaned all the mess off the end tables and adjusted flowers and pillows. After about 20 attempts and many gummy bears and promises of ice cream, we decided I should just take a headshot. We stepped into the backyard and stood in the tiny spot where you couldn’t see the unfinished fence and stacks of wood.

It is my picture, but people make their own perceptions about the woman in it. We live in a world where we log on to multiple social media sites a day and scroll through the lives of others…but we only see what they want us to see. Perception is not reality, and this is something we should remind ourselves of daily. In reality, we all go through similar struggles. Daily life is hard but when you add in the expectations of others and the world, it can get overwhelming fast. We need to remind ourselves it’s okay to be human: it’s okay to feed your kids hotdogs and macaroni for supper; it’s okay to forget to put your clothes in the dryer and have to rewash them; and it’s okay to not have your kids dressed in head-to-toe boutique outfits every day.

Let’s be real here: You are not alone and we are all in this together.

Now, about this issue: Did you know that October is National Women's Small Business Month? There seems to be a month for everything, I know, but this is really something to celebrate! That is why I pushed my fall issue to the winter and came up with this “Women’s Issue.”

What started out as a small idea turned into, by far, one my favorite issues to date. I can’t thank everyone who contributed enough. As always, it was a team effort and I hope that you all take away something from this issue.

There is truly something for every woman, from the college student to the working woman, from the stay at home mom to everyone in between. Life is messy, but it’s your beautiful mess, so let’s make the best of it!

I dedicate this issue to the special women featured and to all those who may relate to them.

To the Cindy Scoggins: the selfless women who, above all else and put others before themselves, who have careers as full-time wives and mothers.

To the Sandra McCammons: the widowed or the single mothers who show us that no matter your age, it’s never too late to achieve your dreams.

To the Tammy LeBlancs: the entrepreneurs, the women who never give up no matter what life may throw their way.

To the Kelly Goldsmiths: to the working mamas and those who are willing to sacrifice everything to fight hard for their children, and mostly importantly, never give up on them.

And, to the Susan Haberkorns: the women who, when knocked down by life’s unpredictable illnesses, get right back up. They show us true inner strength, that life is a precious gift from God and to live each day as if it were our last.

She is clothed in strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future.

–Proverbs 31:25

With Love, Christy Layfield President+Publisher

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Meet Emily

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Loftiss

WRITTEN BY DENISE PURVIS

“Queen of Everyday Glam”

{

This edition, we’re celebrating women, including business owners under the age of 40. For women in the workplace, this segment is all about feeling and looking good and, as it happens, there is no better person to ask about those subjects than Emily Loftiss.

} Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Loftiss, better known as the “Queen of Everyday Glam,” is a style guru from Thomasville. She has appeared on live segments for The Steve Harvey Show, The Insider, The Real, Good Day LA, MTV, OK!TV and CBS. She’s had numerous satellite media tours, reaching audiences of 1.8 million viewers nationwide.

Loftiss’ style blog, “Loftiss Says,” has followers in 117 countries. She has been a spokesperson for Macy’s, RoC skincare, Trina Turk, H&M, Old Navy and Kendra Scott, and in partnership with Sally Hansen, Birchbox, MAC, Victoria's Secret, Urban Decay and more.

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How did you end up a go-to woman for style and beauty trends?

I have always been interested in style and beauty. I remember getting detention in fifth grade for practicing my French braid in math class. In high school, I'd buy fashion magazines and copy the makeup the models were wearing.

I was focused on my upcoming dance career but grew to be a trusted advisor to friends and family about style. When I transitioned into my second career as a TV personality, there was no hesitation in the idea that my expertise would be style and beauty.

What's your best advice for a woman who wants to look professional and fashionable on a budget?

First off, you need to know what's in your closet. You should really take the time to tally what pieces you own.

Black pencil skirt: check. Perfect pair of nude pumps: check.

After you know what you have, you can fill in the missing pieces. I'm all about high/low shopping and finding ways to stand out in a crowd. Look for statement pieces that are fashion forward but professional like a floral cardigan or colorful jewelry. You can also add a pop of color and a touch of your own style by getting a gorgeous manicure with bright but professional colors.

What specific clothing pieces do you recommend to build a professional and cute career wardrobe?

You always need staples: Perfect pair of slacks, tailored blazers, statement jewelry, crisp button downs. After you have your staples, buy the same pieces but in fun colors and prints! Mix and match to make numerous eye-catching looks.

Thomasville native Emily Loftiss has built a nationwide following for her style blog, television appearances and more.

What is a good way to bring your personality into your wardrobe without going overboard at work?

I actually just spoke about this on my first Facebook Live show: “Finding Your Signature Style.” The only

way to find true happiness in your wardrobe is to know your personal style. Are you retro, classic,

trendy, bohemian, all black, a neon lover or over-dressed?

Whatever it may be, think about what your style is when you are shopping for work clothes. You decide how people see you!

Let's say your fashion icon is someone adorable like Zooey Deschanel, How do you pull that off without looking like a grown woman in a teenager's clothes?

What I constantly find are people trying to emulate someone's style. I feel it's important to take inspiration from celebrities, fashion bloggers and models but make the look your own. I appreciate Zooey Deschanel's look, but only SHE can pull off some of those looks. Fashion should be fun, so anytime you can throw a wink in, it's admired by others. If you want a "Zooey-ish" look, I would go for charming prints like polka-dots and animal prints, plus A-line skirts and dresses paired with belts and, of course, a red lip. Remember: inspiration, not imitation!

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Wearing heels makes your legs look amazing, but it's not always great on the feet. What styles or specific types of work shoes do you recommend for a woman who has to stand on her feet all day?

The best heels in the world are wedges. They are just more comfortable while giving you that elongated leg.

There are numerous styles, from casual to dressy, that you can play with. Heels are always gorgeous to look at, but not always the most comfortable. Maybe slip on some flats at your desk. I really do love a ballet slipper or loafer. Try a beautiful, brushed gold or leopard print. And if you haven't tried Dr. Scholl’s, they’ve had some really darling pieces recently.

What bit of advice would you like to share with our readers about building your confidence?

I actually wrote a blog for a dear friend last month and talked about the importance of a conversation starter. How many times have you had butterflies about attending an event and not knowing anyone? It doesn’t matter if it’s the first day of work, or a wedding or a cocktail event. It’s the worst to be “Sally-Sally No Friends.” That’s why when I’m dressing for one of these occasions, I wear a statement piece that is a conversation starter. Forget that boring black dress unless you add a killer brooch with a great story behind 10 it. You will instantly have your confidence builder when you are armed with your conversation starter. When in

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doubt, wear the feathers, costume jewelry, sparkly shoes: the showstopper pieces!

What work-appropriate makeup trends would be great for our readers to try?

Everyone wants beautiful, glowing skin. Go to a makeup counter and make sure you are wearing the proper shade of foundation. Next, become friends with bronzer! When you highlight your skin, it is always perfect and you’ll receive compliments. Hit your cheekbones, brow bones and cupid's bow. I love a bright lip. I actually go for a more orange lip versus red and it always adds that extra pop. Smokey eyes can be done if you choose soft brows. And please remember, y’all, blush is your friend!

What's the best spin on a corporate suit that doesn't feel like you're being constricted?

I love a pantsuit. I always feel less constricted in pants versus a skirt. When I want to feel powerful, I reach for pants. To break up a boring suit, I would add an interesting blazer. Pinstripes, bold colors, animal prints: say yes to them all! And have fun with dresses. This is Thomasville. It is perfectly acceptable to wear shift dresses, maxis and hi-low dresses to work.

For our readers who are juggling a career and family, what do you suggest to reduce stress? Any beauty trends to share to reduce looking (and feeling) tired?

Remember nighttime is for you. After the babies are asleep and you've had life talks with your husband, go to your Zen place. I love experimenting with facemasks, undereye creams, cuticle oils, body lotions and more. I feel the calmest when I put on my sleep mask and earplugs and I’ve misted my lavender spray. You must pamper yourself so you can be the best mommy, wife and boss babe around!

Lastly, plan out your life. Set your nail and hair appointments in advance so you don't freak out when your roots are coming in. And always set your clothes out the night before. The best hair tip I can give (to save you time in the morning), is to sleep with your hair in a light bun on the top of your head with a few bobby pins. It will make your hair look effortless in the morning! TM

Follow Emily on her professional page on Facebook: Emily Loftiss.

Don't forget to tune in to her Facebook Live Show "Everyday Glam with Emily Loftiss" every Tuesday at 10 p.m. You can ask all of your style and beauty questions and have them answered live. And for daily tips and tricks, follow Loftiss on Instagram and snapchat. If you are interested in hiring Emily as a stylist, check out her website: www.emilyloftiss.com for services.

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Sweets & Eats

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

WRITTEN JENNIFER TAYLOR WRITTEN BYBY CHRISTY LAYFIELD

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Fall is truly my favorite time of year. I love the summer and the beach, but there is just something about the fall that has it all. Days are cooler, no more of those pesky bugs, and football. I like football (Go Dawgs!) but, honestly, I am not the girl cheering and watching the game; I am the one doing my food dance in the kitchen because there is nothing better than some good ole’ finger foods and appetizers during football season. They are quick, easy, and yummy.

Now, my mother-in-law is truly the hostess with the mostess. This woman knows how to throw a good party and make a spread. I could probably invite you all over and there would still be more than enough food for everyone. It was not easy for me to choose which one of her recipes to share with you, so I narrowed it down to my three favorites, the ones that I always go back for seconds…OK…thirds! They are simple, quick, easy, and sure to be crowd pleasers. Enjoy!

Corn Dip Ingredients: • 2 cans of Mexican corn (be sure to drain all the water out, even give it a little mash in the strainer and get that water out) • 1 fresh jalapeno; use as little or much as you want • ¾ cup of sugar • ¾ cup of Sour cream • ¾ cup of mayo (Hellmann’s) Mix it all together and serve with Fritos.

Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs Ingredients: • 1 bag of frozen Italian meatballs • 1 bottle of Lawry’s Caribbean jerk marinade I buy the big bag of Italian meatballs from Sam's Club but you can get some from your local grocery store. Defrost the meatballs in the microwave first, then, add them to your slow cooker. Add the marinade (I use three bottles for the big bag) until the meatballs are completely covered. Depending on how many people you are serving, you may need more than one bottle of marinade. Set it on high until it bubbles, then turn them on low/warm and you are ready to serve!

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Tammy's Salsa Ingredients: • 6 cans of petite diced tomatoes. (You can get a mixture of the green pepper and onion, basil and oregano, flavored varieties) • 3 fresh tomatoes chopped petite (If you don’t use fresh you can opt out for one can of tomatoes) • 1 large bunch of cilantro chopped fine (I use my scissors) • 1 large white onion chopped • 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning • 2 tablespoons minced garlic (I use the kind in the jar) • Salt and pepper to taste • 2 lemons squeezed • 1 lime squeezed • 1 or 2 fresh jalapeno peppers finely chopped or you can add a can of diced jalapenos

Toss it all together and serve with your favorite tortilla chips!

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Exercise For the Busy Woman

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• Jumping Jacks • Running up and down the stairs (whoo, that’s a tough one!)

• Squats

S

chool is in full swing and the homework and laundry are piling up, along with practices, games, bills, groceries and the list goes on. For working moms, stay-at-home moms or businesswomen, finding time to work out is essential and, quite honestly, missing from the daily routines of many.

I’ve been in the fitness industry for over nine years and one of the most common excuses I hear for not exercising is, “I just don’t have the time.”

I want to get straight to the point: there is time to work out. The key is in finding the little things to do and adding them all together. You can do small things every day that keep you working better, looking better, handling life better (uh huh… kids) and most importantly, feeling better.

If you can dedicate only ten minutes a day to exercise, your mind and body will thank you for it. By the end of the week, it could add up to over an hour of exercise you would not have done, including simple exercises like:

• Split squats • Burpies • Goodmornings • Push-ups • Reptile planks The list can go on and on. The great news is that we have so many resources at our fingertips for on-the-go women. Pinterest, exercise blogs and even Instagram have some great workouts you can follow daily. Here’s my only request: seek professional help first to make sure you won’t injure yourself.

Now, for the rest of you out there, who say you don’t even have ten minutes. What am I to do for you? This is when the little things really add up. If you have kids, this is a fun game for everyone. Make a calendar of exercises, where on each day of the month you have to do the same

Sample Calendar Sept 15

15 Squats

Sept 16

16 Burpies

Sept 17

17 Walking Lunges

Sept 18

18 Toe Touches

Sept 19

19 Plank Toe Taps

Sept 20

20 Good-mornings

Sept 21

21 sec Mountain Climbers

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

repetitions as the date. So, on August 15, you do 15 squats or September 3, three burpies (see chart to right).

Or, do two exercises a week in September. At the start of each week do five push-ups and five squats. Add one a day, and by the end of the week, you’ll be doing 12 push-ups and 12 squats. Then pick two new exercises for the next week.

Remember, every bit counts. Take the stairs, park farther away from the grocery store, go for a walk after lunch or dinner or wake up five minutes earlier and stretch. Believe me, all these little exercises will make you feel more energized and possibly lead to more time for exercise. Maybe you will even begin to like exercise! That is your main goal, didn’t you know? TM

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THOMASVILLE’S

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

WOMEN Who Mean Business

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22 under 40

If there is one thing people learn quickly about Thomasville, it’s that entrepreneurs are welcomed with open arms.

And If there is one thing that putting this article together has taught us, it’s that entrepreneurial success in this town favors both women and men. That’s no surprise. Women Business Enterprises (WBE) represent a soaring segment of Georgia’s economy, according to the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Georgia is currently ranked No. 1 in the United States for fastest growth in the number of women-owned firms.

1 in 3 of all women business owners, with ownership rates that have gone up 265% since 1997.

For this women’s special issue, with community input through internet nominations and based on our set qualifications, we have selected 22 women under the age of 40 who own or co-own businesses in Thomasville. Whether in physical therapy, chiropractic, books or clothing, these ladies either planted seeds or kept on keepin’ on during tough economic times.

How did they do it? We’ll let them tell you.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Minority women are making unprecedented strides, too, representing

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Lindsay Leverette

Servpro of Thomas, Colquitt and Grady Counties Family is what’s most important to Lindsay Leverette and her husband, Pete; he was working for Golden Peanuts when they decided it was time to go into business for themselves. Now they’re able to spend more time with their children McKie, 8, and Will, 4 (and their Boston Terrier, Buggy!).

How did you get into what you do? We decided to go into business for ourselves right when the recession hit, so we wanted something recession-proof. Dealing in insurance seemed to fit that. We started to give ourselves the flexibility for me to spend more time with the kids. Working for other people had been tough and family’s very important to us.

To what do you attribute your success? I do a lot of networking in town and being involved in the community has opened a lot of doors for us. I do the marketing and my husband does production, so we have that balance, and the Chamber has been good to us.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Under-promise and overserve. Practice the golden rule. Be honest and fair and treat people well. When we meet our clients, it’s in a situation like where their house has been lost, so we have to be compassionate in helping people understand that they’re going to get through it.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Helping people get their lives back to normal, their homes back to normal. To help people is really rewarding and exciting. TM

Heather Harrison

Mary Madison Boutique Originally from Moultrie and a UGA grad, Heather has spent five of her last 18 years in Thomasville as the owner of Mary Madison boutique. She and husband J.T. are parents to… you guessed it, Mary Madison, 6, and Ava James, 4.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

How did you get into what you do? I stayed at home for a year with my

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first child and then went back out on the market, but I couldn’t find anything because of the economy. I was frustrated trying to find clothes for my daughter so I decided to open my own business.

To what do you attribute your success? I have a very supportive family.

My husband allowed me to not draw a paycheck for three and a half years and my mom is my business partner. And of course, God.

What are the principles that you live by every day? I live by: God first, family second, work third. I’m all about community—about giving back to the community.

What advice would you give others starting a business? If it’s something you’re passionate about, make sure you surround yourself with supportive people. Do the necessary research before you jump into something. I feel like that’s why we’ve been successful. TM

Kelly Thrift

Focus Communications Focus, a collaborative effort between Kelly and her husband, Michael, has been in town for ten years. A Thomasville native, Kelly finished a business degree at Valdosta State, spent some time in Jacksonville and returned in 2005. She and Michael have three children: Lauren, 13, Julia, 10, and Grady, 6.

How did you get into what you do? I was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug when I was assigned my senior project in college: developing a company from the ground up. With my husband's experience in the low-voltage industry, my business background, a favorable market analysis of the area in the industry and a desk in the corner of our living room, Focus was born.

To what do you attribute your success? Fear of failure or failure itself was never an option for us.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Honesty—from the prices we give our customers to the honesty we expect when we go through our vendors. Honesty.

Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? My father, Wiley Grady. He was the CEO of the Y here in Thomasville. He has an impeccable business mind. Everything I know I learned from observing him.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Mostly, it’s the interaction with different people in the community. Every day is different. I deal with so many people from so many backgrounds and many different types of businesses. TM

Lindsey Pyle

Lotus Yoga and Holistic Wellness Lindsey was born in Thomasville and opened her business after falling in love with yoga and holistic health during her post-college years in California. She lives with her husband Gareth, children Anna-Claire and Carter, two dogs, a cat and a rabbit.

How did you get into what you're doing? I broke my back and wanted to strengthen it and remove any residual pain naturally. I wanted to change my mind and body, and I wanted to do what I love for a living.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Seeing the happiness that comes from results in my clients’ goals and watching them bloom into the best versions of themselves.

What drives you? Results I can see and feel, along with the importance of being healthy and happy for my family and my physical and emotional well-being, as well as for my clients.

What are the principles you live by as a businesswoman? The Four Agreements [from a book] by Don Miguel Ruiz: be impeccable with my word, don't make false assumptions, don't take anything personally and always do my best. I try to be flexible on and off the mat so I'm available to see everyone, regardless of their schedules. The goal: to look & feel good naked [laughs]. TM

LaToya Crawford

LaToya’s School of Dance, LLC. Despite a degree in broadcasting and a teaching certificate for the middle grades, a year ago, Thomasville High School grad LaToya Crawford ’96 decided to make a career in dance instruction—a world to which she’s no stranger. She won multiple awards as a cheerleader and dancer and is a member of the Thomasville-Thomas County Sports Hall of Fame. She has a son, Andre Williams Jr., 8.

How did you get into what you do? I danced and cheered all my life, since I could walk.

My parents would always put me in talent shows and I had a father who called me a star from the day I was born. In high school, I was very young when I made varsity—my sophomore year; I played the clarinet under the direction of Michial Mayhall—he made me the best—he did not take any less. I was student athlete of the year, a Georgia Cheerleader of the Year finalist, won the Sarah Annie Floyd Sportsmanship Award—she was the biggest Bulldog fan who ever lived, I was a Wendy’s Heisman Athlete, I was inducted into the Thomas County Sports Hall of Fame [...] I thank the Lord for my gifts. I give God all the glory. At 38 years old, I can still move like I was 16. I have three studios, in Thomasville, Valdosta and Lakeland.

To what do you attribute your success? To God, my parents, and the circle of women who have stepped up. My parents are Johnny and Brenda Crawford, my brother is Johnny Crawford Jr., Ember Greene is my sister and I have a host of aunts, uncles and cousins who support me.

What is the most rewarding thing about what you do? To see growth in my dance students. To see that my dance school is actually effective, when parents pay and they actually get results. That’s the most rewarding and exciting part of my job. TM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

To what do you attribute your success? God, my family’s support and a desire to help others.

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Meredith Powers Dee Powers Brinson

DDP Monograms and Gifts

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

DDP is a family affair, if there ever was one. Sisters-in-law Meredith and Dee, along with their husbands Danny and Jason, do everything together and love it—whether it’s business or vacation. Meredith and Danny are parents to Lexi Kate and Blakely and Dee and Jason are parents to Kinley and Beau.

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How did you get into what you do? Dee: While I was working on my Master’s, I couldn’t find a job, so I came up with an idea to buy $100 worth of handbags to sell on eBay out of my parents’ garage. I was making more money doing that in six months than at a traditional job, so I just stuck with it.

Meredith: When I met her brother, they were already in a warehouse on Smith Avenue. We moved the business to a larger location and now we’re in the Gateway location. Since launching the website, e-commerce is 60% of the business.

There is a lot of blood, sweat and tears in this operation.

To what do you attribute your success?

Dee: We just stuck with it. We give all the honor,

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praise and glory to God. I think God has had a role and a hand in keeping it together and making the business profitable. We do a lot of praying and soul-searching. It makes no business sense but that’s what we believe. There have been a lot of steps along the way but each has been a small baby step. We didn’t start with a big sum. We took small amounts of profit to put toward things. We don’t take on debt. We pay cash for everything.

What are the principles that you live by every day?

Dee: Seek God in every decision. Always do the right thing, whether people are watching or not.

No cheating, no scheming, no taking on debt. Meredith: And also just try our best to respect and love people: employees, each other.

Every person, every purchase, we try to love people and not see it as a dollar bill, and we treat people how we would like to be treated. TM

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Kate Hunt

Live Young Studio Kate saw her vision for a business become reality, in her sleek studio on West Jackson Street. She began as a professional ballerina and ended up with a Master’s in physical therapy and a love for improving the lives of others. She lives with her husband Jim, sons Mac and Chip, plus their three Doodles.

How did you get into what you do? I trained in dance with Pacific Northwest

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Ballet and have always had a passion for movement, efficiency and general beauty and wellness.

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To what do you attribute your success? I think that the translation of my vision and my passion and enthusiasm are seen in everything I do. More than that, I think that the differentiator of a client’s success is the attention to detail, the attention to disciple and incorporating a whole lot of fun. None of my employees is complacent. Everyone has a drive to do better. I couldn’t have launched or had the kind of growth that I’ve had without my staff or the incredible team of women I’ve worked with.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Time management and efficiency are the keys to a balanced life as a woman. I place as much value on being a fantastic mom to my boys as I do running my business. My guiding principle is that I’m a better mom because of the opportunities I have in my business life. And I live by having a proactive approach to business development and growth.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Watching magic happening in people’s bodies every day. Watching my staff members have “aha” moments in their practices. Watching clients and patients find their “aha” moments in their bodies so they’re more functional and they feel better in their skin. It’s the magic of creating a successful movement, whether it’s in elite athletes or 82-year olds. And I get to watch that every day and be a guiding part of that. TM

Laura Harper

Blush Salon & Spa

Laura lives by the words of Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” A Thomasville native and Thomas University grad, she started doing hair five years ago and has owned Blush for three.

To what do you attribute your success? I think it was part of God’s plans. I’m successful because of Him. My clients followed me from where I was at and so did my staff.

Everyone who works here makes Blush what Blush is.

What advice would you give to women wanting to start a business in your industry? I would tell them to go full force. Don’t be scared to put your heart into it. Spend as much time as you can—that’s the only way you can make it successful.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? I love when I have the client in my chair and I turn them around, and they love their hair. They leave smiling and happy and that’s what makes me love what I do.

Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? My parents.

They were the ones to support me and motivate me to keep going. TM

Annie Butterworth Jones

The Bookshelf

It’s hard to believe that Tallahassee native Annie, who holds a journalism degree and hosts the best storytime on the block, has only owned The Bookshelf for three years. She lives with her husband Jordan and Beagle who never barks, Junie B. Jones.

How did you get into what you do? I was working at the Florida Bar in Tallahassee

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

as a writer and editor. I was happy but wanted something more meaningful. The Bookshelf opened an outpost store in Tallahassee and I decided to email Katie Chastain about volunteer opportunities because I lived right down the street. Working in a bookstore was something I’d wanted to do since I was a little girl. I had zero retail experience, but Katie hired me as a manager in Tallahassee for a year. When Katie and Scott decided to pursue other things, she offered me the chance to buy the Bookshelf Thomasville. Again, I had no experience but I have always loved books. One of my favorite movies is You’ve Got Mail. I get to be Kathleen Kelly and it’s pretty cool.

To what do you attribute your success? The bookstore is successful in part because of the people who started it and because of the excellence of my staff.

What are the principles that you live by? The Bookshelf is a dream job. I have to remind myself that it’s a job—it’s reality now, and it comes with things that are sometimes difficult.

I love the enthusiasm of Leslie Knope [of TV’s Parks and Recreation], so I try to be the Leslie Knope of everything I do. I’m an introvert, so we’re different personalities and it takes reminding myself that this is worth being excited about, and making sure I’m giving myself permission to do this as a job.

Have you received any big breaks? My big break was Katie [Chastain] responding to an email from a random stranger. I didn’t have a previous relationship with her. I re-read that email to myself sometimes to remind myself why I’m doing this.

Katie didn’t know me. She gave me this big break by hiring me when I had nothing but a love for books.

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Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? My husband. He looked at me and said, You have to do this, when there were a million reasons why we shouldn’t have picked up and moved to Thomasville. Sometimes you need that person to look at you and tell you [that]. He did that.

What advice would you share? It’s okay to ask questions. The other advice I’d give is to take initiative. Send emails to strangers—be willing to take risks, even when it seems a little silly. TM

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Evan Wortman

Mimi's the Look and Caroline Hill It’s hard to believe that Mimi’s began in Evan’s bedroom, considering what a fashion favorite it’s become, but Evan lives by never being complacent, no matter how successful her business. She has pushed herself for the last five years and has no plans of stopping. She and her husband Brian, live with their two dogs, Chloe and Izzy.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

How did you get into what you do? I’ve always wanted to have my own

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business. So, I had all of these ideas, but my dad’s a banker and he weighed out financial risk and starting costs. He didn’t see any ideas working out, so I went to work at Farmers and Merchants Bank. Later on, we were in south Florida and there was a jewelry store that was fun and so busy and my dad said, “If you want to do something like this, go for it.”

To what do you attribute your success? We started just doing trunk shows, shows at restaurants, people’s houses and my parents' house. My mom and I were doing it together. We started a website and were doing sorority shows.

Then we found a manufacturing niche and all the vendors wanted to know where we got our stuff, so then I started selling to vendors. It started in my bedroom and now we have the building behind Chop House and the store opened 2-3 years ago. It was because of the word of my mom—she worked tirelessly and traveled with me; and because of my dad and husband, too. I couldn’t have done it without their help and support.

What are the principles that you live by? First, Keep your standards high. Never feel like you’re where you want to be with your business; always be thinking about taking it to the next level.

When we’re at market and having great sales days, I don’t want to think we’re comfortable and doing everything right and that’s it. We try to keep it fresh and interesting and are always thinking about the next step.

Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? My mom. She’s done everything with me and worked just as hard as I have.

What advice would you give others who are thinking about starting a business like yours? I feel like we went into everything so blindly. But I also think that can be a blessing and a curse. Sometimes I ask myself, “If you knew how hard it would be, would you do it again?” Yes, absolutely. I think it's good to know what you’re getting into, but other times it’s better to learn along the way. Knowing now how much hard work it was going to take—it was maybe better not knowing what was coming. Just be prepared to work harder than you’ve ever worked— it will be so rewarding and so much fun. Don’t ever be discouraged. Everything that happens along the way is for a reason. Looking back on the things that didn’t work out that I really wished for, they were all a lesson that we learned from. If those things didn’t happen, we wouldn’t be where we are today. TM

Missy Taylor

Flourish

Missy answered a calling when she teamed up with Gerriann Kennedy, a young cancer survivor, to open a store in Thomasville that offers women the privacy and products to help them regain their dignity during cancer treatment. She lives with her husband John, their two daughters and, she says, “two ridiculous dogs that run our house.”

How did you get into what you do? About four years ago, when Gerriann was

What are the principles that you live by every day? I like reminding people that they are worthy and they can do whatever they want to do. It’s okay to have a meltdown and things can not be okay. I love when they see Gerriann and they see that her hair grew back, she is accomplishing goals and has turned it around to help people. I think that self-love is a huge thing missing in a lot of people and I love empowering women. I was a cheerleader in high school; this is my way of being one as an adult. Women need to understand that they can do anything they want. No matter what they look like. I am half-Vietnamese and what was such a struggle when I was a kid has become a blessing and an asset. I feel just as comfortable approaching people of various races. I want to bridge that gap. TM

Alex Edwards Martin

Ally b Boutique

Alex opened Ally b Boutique ten years ago, when she was just 21 years old. She and her husband Sam are parents to sons Zack, 4, and Luke, 1, and keep chickens, which Alex says are like their pets. Alex pursued fashion and merchandising at Bauder College and has done what she loves since.

How did you get into your business? Well, I went to school for it and right after I graduated, just knew what I wanted to do. When we first opened, we were beside Stafford’s for a year and then we moved downtown.

To what do you attribute your success? Really to Thomasville and our customers. When I first opened, I didn’t realize what an awesome town and support system Thomasville has. It’s the many people who make Thomasville what it is.

What principles do you live by? Be kind, show love and trust in the Lord.

The only beauty that truly matters is inner beauty. TM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

31, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have a double mastectomy.

I met her after her treatment at a birthday party, we started having lunch and that became a weekly thing for a year. She always talked about her experience and how she wanted to give back and give people the things that she felt would have been really useful when she was in treatment. I was project manager at a plantation when I woke up one morning and felt like God had placed it on my heart to go into business with her. We started talking about what we were going to carry. We thought about post-mastectomy bras, then we said there isn’t anywhere in Thomasville that sells nursing bras. Then what about women who have hot flashes or melanoma?

Flourish became a place where anyone could come to feel better. We sell practical, affordable products. We do natural and organic skincare and makeup and our pajamas are everybody’s favorite.

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Mariam Mirabzadeh

Rodan + Fields Consultant

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Mariam first bought her Rodan + Fields kit because she researched it and believed it would help with the dark circles under her eyes. She’d lived in Africa and the Middle East while working for the Department of Defense and living near the equator gave her the need for extra skin care. Sixteen months later, she’s set for life, she says, working in direct sales and without any prior experience—which is not uncommon. She and her husband Dennis are parents to Vivian, 3.

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How did you get into what you do? I heard about Rodan + Fields through my sister and I had friend who’d had plastic surgery and had been using the products for two years. I blew her off and eventually researched it on my own.

I called the corporate office and bought the biggest business kit. I needed eye cream, so I thought, Why not get skin care for free? Now, I’m finally makeup free for the first time in ten years, the money allows us to give more and it’s paid for all of our vacations. I have team members who are doing phenomenal things and the potential for growth is astronomical. I laughed at my friend the first time she mentioned it, but then I really started realizing that we’re changing lives and changing skin. It has changed my life.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Anything that you believe, you can achieve. That’s my life’s principle. It’s everyone’s duty to make a difference in the world. I believe with all of my soul that if you believe it, it’s achievable. It’s also about building relationships. Was Rodan + Fields my goal when I was a girl? No. But God has put me where I’m supposed to be. God is all over this business and in my team. I will be in this company forever.

How successful can someone be, getting into this kind of work? I was in a meeting with a corporate leadership director with ten other women the other day. They were all driving company cars. He asked how many of us had been in direct sales prior. The answer was none. If you believe that you can help people by sharing things like this, then you’re going to. I want people to realize that there is an opportunity for them out there. Mamas can stay home and raise their kids; we have CEOs of banks retiring with Rodan + Fields. I have men on my team and one of the company’s top earners is a man.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to make a change. TM

Deborah Phillips Owner 111 A Remington Avenue Thomasville, GA 31792

ph 229.236.7445 email philmorega@gmail.com

Jennifer Westfield

Thomasville Townie

Jennifer is a two-time Georgia Press Association award winning writer and editor, who dabbles in photography, international danger and expensive cat purchases.

She writes for and is on the editing staff of four publications, including THOM and Thomasville Magazine. She lives with her daughter Sofia, 10, and perk-eared Scottish Fold, Mr. Kittles.

How did you get into what you do? In a fiery coup! Just kidding. I was a staff

To what do you attribute your success? To my staff and the advertisers who stick with us, without whom there would be no paper because we’re a free one. Every person who works for me is a generous soul who believes in the mission. The entire paper is truly an act of love.

What are the principles that you live by every day? My mantra for writing and editing is from Strunk & White’s The Elements of Style: “Omit needless words.”

It doesn’t just mean, “avoid excessive verbiage” to me. That line has shaped me into practicing absolute economy in time management, project selection, emotional living, housekeeping, mothering and more. If you omit the needless in all things and stick to the essential purpose, you’ll maximize your abilities beyond what you could have imagined. Encapsulating maximum meaning into minimal language is the definition of poetry. My other big principle involves finding myself in the world. I flew and then sailed out to the Greek Isles this summer, alone. I drove all over the islands with hand-drawn maps from locals, because there are zero named roads out there. You just start driving and follow the signs. I climbed to the summit of Mount Zas in Naxos on a day when there wasn’t another soul in sight—they don’t have park rangers or safety ropes. To stand on one of the highest points on Naxos after a pretty treacherous climb, no phone, no one knowing where I was, and to look down past the bottomless valleys all the way to the sea—It was more profound than I could ever describe and those moments are what drive me.

Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? Dara Barwick is a saint and a constant source of positivity and perspective. This operation would be inexplicably different without her.

Dara, if you’re reading this, you’re the best.

What advice would you give others in your line of work? Publishing can be a thankless profession.

You’ll tend to think you’re doing poorly because people will only give you feedback when something is wrong, rather than to let you know you’re doing things right. You have to love what you’re doing, or sometimes the not knowing will eat at you.

That’s why I recommend watching a lot of Parks and Recreation. It’s a hilarious show for women in mostly (or in Leslie Knope’s case, totally) thankless professions. But I’d argue that it’s one of the most uplifting shows ever made. If I ever feel down, all I have to do is watch the “Snake Juice” episode. TM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

writer and then went from columnist to managing editor to editor in chief to publisher. I bought the paper when the time came because I truly felt like I could run it and keep to its original ideals. In order to keep the paper small and homespun as it was founded, I’m still the editor in chief, managing editor, a contributing writer and its copyeditor. I’m also the bookkeeper and ad manager.

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Jessica Jones

Barberitos

Jessica and her husband Todd decided to get in on the Barberitos franchise early, when a friend from her college days made them an offer they couldn’t refuse. Jessica has been the owner and operator of the Thomasville location for ten years. Born and raised in Thomasville, she and Todd have two boys, Drew and Jake, plus their yellow lab, Mac.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

How did you get into what you do? The guy that started Barberitos went to college with

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me. His wife and I were sorority sisters. We were all home one Thanksgiving and a store had opened that November in Thomasville so we looked into it. We called these friends from college and found out that it was a test market store in a more rural area. We were burnt out on corporate America, and wanted to move home and do something on our own. He said they were trying to grow and offered us the chance to run the store in Valdosta and buy the store in Thomasville later.

To what do you attribute your success? To our employees and our community. The community embraced us from day one and has allowed us to be involved from day one. Without our staff, community and customers, we would not be here. And being able to give back is important to us.

What are the principles that you live by? Strive to be the best at whatever we do. Do our very best to treat others the way that we expect to be treated. Come at challenges from a positive side, so that all parties benefit. That’s me as a person and as a businesswoman. As long as you’re positive and everyone is taken care of, that’s what’s most important.

What advice would you give others wanting to start a business? Take the chance. Grab life, grab the opportunity and go with it. Every choice has a consequence. You have to love it, believe in it, breathe it—it has to be everything you are. Being an entrepreneur is a risk. If you don’t go for it, you might always say, “What if? Would it have worked out?” As long as you go after it 110%, then you can’t say you didn’t give it your all. You’re never guaranteed that it will be successful, but as long as you tried... You have to remember, if everything were easy, then everybody would be doing it. TM

Ashley Newberry

aNn Monograms

After only two years, Ashley was able to quit her job in insurance—a job she loved—to fully focus on what had been a fun hobby. It started with a vinyl-cutting machine for something to do—a gift from her mother. Now she fulfills hundreds of orders a month out of Whigham, where she lives with her Yorkie, Khloe, and rescue cat, Izzy.

How did you get into what you do? It started by accident. At first it was a creative outlet. I started on Instagram to show my projects and people started wanting to order stuff. I did it locally for about a year. In November 2014, I launched an Etsy. Ever since then I took off. It started with decals and monograms, now there’s a demand for monogrammed pearls and apparel.

To what do you attribute your success? I love meeting my customers. I’ve met so many who have become my friends. I feel like I’ve taken a lot I’ve learned in insurance and brought it over here. I’ve found my passion and it just drives me.

Natalie Balfour Kelley

Kaleidoscope

Natalie gives credit to her parents, Linda and David Balfour, for teaching her everything she knows about business. A Thomasville native, she lives with her husband Ron.

How did you get into what you do? I worked at a consignment shop in 2008. Then I worked here for three years for the previous owners, grew to love it and wanted to do myself.

Judy Badger. I wouldn’t be where I am now if she hadn’t owned it prior to me.

What are the principles you live by every day? Being loyal to my customers: always putting my customers first and being able to satisfy them the best way that I can.

Who are the most important people in your life? My parents. Not only because I am their daughter, but because they’ve taught me to be outgoing and friendly and to know how to run a business. My family has businesses, so my dad knows that sense of it. My mom is loving and outgoing. I also have to say, my husband was actually against it when I first bought the store—but now he is one of my biggest supporters.

What advice would you share with others? Always treat your customers with the utmost respect and kindness because they are the ones who keep your business running.

What drives you? I get really excited to come in, to know that I can put new stuff out and do my displays differently every week. I’m focused on my clientele and customers. That’s what motivates me. I can’t reiterate enough how much it drives me to know that my customers are satisfied. TM

What principles do you live by? I want to inspire women to keep dreaming. It’s never too late to start over and chase a dream and believe in yourself. If you believe in yourself and you pray about it, you can just make any dream come true.

Have you received any big breaks? I just completed my first commercial order last week—from a nursing home in North Carolina.

What advice would you give to women who are thinking about running a business from home? Make a schedule and stick to a schedule. When you work from home, it’s hard to get up and get ready. It helps to get up and get ready for my day just like I’m going into work. Make a little time for yourself. Have people around who support that you work from home.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Getting to meet so many people. I feel like I have friends all over the place. I feel like I could go to Texas and not have to get a hotel. I get to help with so many big events and weddings.

I truly feel like these are my friends. There is so much more to come in the future.

One of my big dreams is to help my mom retire and to pull her out of her physically demanding job and employ people from Whigham. TM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

To what do you attribute your success? The previous owner,

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Heather Waldrop

South Georgia Spine and Joint Thomasville born and raised, Heather started her first practice, Harper Chiropractic, 12 years ago now, after graduating from Texas Chiropractic College.

Two years later she married Mike Waldrop, a Tifton native, whom she’d met at school. Thus, Waldrop Chiropractic was born, as were their sons Rodge and Roland. In 2008, they purchased the old Social Security office on Madison Street, now South Georgia Spine and Joint. They have two additional offices in Cairo and Bainbridge.

with alternative medicine. I had a coach who popped my back and I thought that was the coolest thing. I knew right away, when I got on campus at Life University, this was it.

To what do you attribute your success? First, Mike. He is very businessoriented and he keeps taking us to the next level. I’m influenced by helping people and seeing people every day—the ones who get the best results make it worthwhile. I’ve treated some of the same patients for 12 years, for maintenance and preventative reasons. Thomasville and the surrounding areas have blessed us, too—we’ve stayed busy. We’re members at First Baptist Church and we try to give back as much as we can. If anyone comes to us, we sponsor.

We’re community involved, I was in JSL for 7 years and we give to Landmarks, Young Life and South Georgia Ballet. Our best advertisement is by word of mouth.

What are the principles that you live by? One of my favorites is the saying by John Wesley, “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can.

In all the ways you can. In all the places you can.

At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.” With patients, I’ll try every avenue to figure out what we can do to help them. A lot of pain is emotional and you have to get to know the person to break through. Healing is not just physical. I think strong relationships with patients are important as well as spending time to get to know each patient.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Helping people feel better and live healthier lives. I also love adjusting kids. I see lots of babies, lots of middle schoolers, lower schoolers; we are the team chiropractor for Thomas University and the local high schools. I enjoy that. Most people think chiropractic is only about arthritis, but that isn’t true. I love leading patients to an alternative, so they know that some things can be treated without prescriptions and are more holistic. TM

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

How did you get into what you’re doing? I’ve always been fascinated

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Kellie McLanahan

McLanahan Studio and Q Café Kellie found her calling in connecting with people from behind her camera. At the same time, she and her husband Mark wanted out of the corporate restaurant world so that they could spend less time apart as a family. Kellie and Mark are parents to Gavin, 9, and Jordan, 6, plus three dogs: two pointer puppies and 14-year old Bill-Bill, whom Mark picked up at a garage sale.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

How did you get into what you do? Once I had my kids, I knew I didn’t

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want to go back to being a dental assistant. I was photographing my own kids, which made me love it. So, I completed a year course at Lively Tech and opened a studio right away—for maternity, babies and families. My husband had been in the restaurant business for 24 years and the eighty-hour weeks got to be too much. Running the cafe has been absolutely awesome. The “Q” stands for “Quality,” and a better quality of life is the whole reason we opened it.

To what do you attribute your success? Being able to connect with people. They can tell you actually care about them. I do a [photography] pre-consult and want it to feel natural. Customer service is very important.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Staying true to who I am, stylewise, as a photographer. Chances are if you’re doing family pictures, it’s not going to go as you plan. I think being a mother gives you that perspective: realizing that life is not perfect but it is flexible and we can figure it out. I know by being a wife and business owner, with kids in school: We all multitask and we get it done. It may not be perfect, but it’s our life.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Seeing the connection with people—especially babies. I adore babies. To see the parents excited and so in love with their new little one and to see them tear up when you caught their child perfectly and you created something that’s truly going to mean something to them for years to come. TM

Kenya was inspired by Miami fashion and her husband to open her clothing store on West Jackson Street. She is also a registered nurse and works at Archbold along with her two daughters, Courtney and Arkesia.

How did you get into what you do? My dad lived in Miami around 2006-2007, and I would visit. There were lots of boutiques and so I started my own.

Some of my stuff was casual and some was nightlife—there wasn’t a lot of that in Thomasville, but I thought it was worth doing. I started out doing men and women, but now it’s mostly women. I do custom ties for men.

To what do you attribute your success? A lot of hard work and a lot of motivation. I think I have a sense of fashion. I do Facebook, Instagram, all that stuff myself, keeping the money in-house. I’m the janitor. I think the success came from family support, from my husband and my girls. We always ran this business together.

Katie Reeves

ktcreative

The way Katie works, you would never guess she’s working from her living room amidst three children; if working from home is hard, she makes it look easy. With her “yes” attitude, constant pleasantness and enthusiasm, it’s no wonder she’s behind so many design projects in town. She lives with her husband Mark, daughters Olivia and Sarah Beth and stepdaughter Bryden.

How did you get into what you do? I have my degree in marketing and I’ve

To what do you attribute your success? I think success has come because I value my relationships with my clients above almost anything. Building the relationships is more important and I feel like if I had a secret to success that would be it. I appreciate my clients in Thomasville so much and am thankful for the opportunities I have to help them reach their marketing potential.

What are the principles that you live by every day? Treating people the way I want to be treated, especially in business, is a great principle to follow. Following through on the things you say you’re going to do with clients and always having a smile in your voice when you talk to people.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

always enjoyed helping people. I feel like being creative is a great way to help small businesses, so I taught myself graphic design. I worked in the industry, but when I got married, I wanted to start my own business, so I decided to try doing it on my own.

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What advice would you give moms thinking of starting a business from home? It has been a huge blessing that I’ve been able to do this, to spend time with our daughter when she was young and I wouldn’t trade that time for anything. My advice would be to try to make a schedule that you can follow. Be organized as much as you can, but in the same respect, be flexible. Things can change— when you need to take care of your kids, take care of your kids. Try not to worry about the floors and the dishes. Work when it’s work time and do everything else when it’s time. It’s important to have that balance. TM

Kenya Carter

Courtney’s Couture What are the principles that you live by every day? Keep God first. Respect people, be humble, give great customer service and be friendly.

What is the most exciting thing about what you do? Sewing. I love sewing. And meeting new people—being down here you meet a lot of new people. I like to see the end product and people wearing what I’ve created.

Is there any one person without whom you wouldn't be where you are? My husband, Shon. He is the first one who had the idea for me to open the store. When I’m not here, he’s going to work in the store. Basically, he’s my right hand.

What advice would you give others about starting a business? I would let them know, don’t despise small beginnings. You have to be focused—are going to have some sleepless nights. It’s going to take hard work, prayers and education. TM

GOLDEN NUGGETS For Career Rookies WRITTEN BY SHANNA DERBY

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Public Relations & Marketing Specialist at New Hire Solutions

34

To the rookies, postcollege grads plus a few years older, trying to get started in this unfamiliar and confusing career world: Trust me, I get it. Just yesterday, you were getting bikini ready for an epic girls’ trip and posting photos on your Instagram using #squadgoals. The biggest stress factors in your life were passing final exams and trying to decide on the perfect outfit for your next date.

Today, you’re setting all your profiles to private, hoping you’ll stumble upon the perfect pin for resume writing and compulsively refreshing your email after applying for jobs online. You might find yourself staring into your trendy wardrobe, wondering if it could qualify as “business attire.”

Scratch that …knowing it definitely doesn’t qualify.

You’re probably regretting all the times you half-listened to your parents go on about something they referred to as “the real world.” It’s not like you couldn’t handle anything life throws your way, #likeaboss right? At least, at the time, those were the thoughts running through your mind as you rolled your eyes during the endless lectures and continued to scroll through your newsfeed.

Now, you find yourself staring at a blinking search bar with frozen fingers, debating whether or not typing in phrases like “best places to live” and “how to get rich” will magically uncover an easy solution to this transitional time in your life.

Perhaps you are wondering if you really need a cover letter for every application you submit. I mean, seriously, do employers even read those things? Even if a cover letter is in play, you’ve most likely convinced yourself a “copy and paste” version will miraculously stand out amongst the hundreds, or even thousands, of educated and talented equivalents applying for the exact same job. Really? Don't kid yourself, chica.

Feeling all too relatable? Please do not feel discouraged as I vividly recall being in your shoes not too many years

ago. You are a woman. You are beautiful. You are unique.

If you take anything away from reading this column, please remember these words:

YOU can achieve the unimaginable with the right work ethic, focus, connections and, above all, passion!

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Personal Brand

"Your personal brand is what people say about you when you leave the room," according to Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon.com. What does your personal brand say about you? I could do an entire column on "Polishing Your Personal Brand" alone, but I am just going to leave you with a few bread crumbs: Resume: Format your resume and use key words appropriate to your specific industry. One page only.

No exceptions.

LinkedIn: If you don't already have an account, set one up. No selfies. End of discussion.

Social Media: Best friend and worst enemy. Check out the video I uploaded to New Hire Solutions' YouTube channel: "How Social Media Can Help You Land A Job." Calling Card: A unique leave behind at interviews and networking events. Keep it simple and professional.

8/13/16 10:06 PM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

It can take 3-9 months for the average college graduate to land his or her first job. Reality check. At this early stage in your professional life, you most likely do not "shine bright like a diamond" ...just yet. You are not “diamond status” in an employer's eyes because you lack the experience, knowledge and proven worth within your field. You will need to work extremely hard, no matter how talented you may be, in order to stand out and set a solid foundation for your career. "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard," said Tim Notke, a former high school basketball coach. Sorry, but you are not the exception.

Get out your highlighters or whatever floats your

note-taking boat because I've listed a few "golden nuggets" you don’t want to forget. I am barely scratching the surface on ways to set yourself apart from the competition, but these tips will help direct you toward a future “diamond status:”

35

“A b ank i s a colle c t i on of it s cu stom er s .”

— STEPHEN H. CHENEY I CEO

Professional Development Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

In order to develop and refine your skills, you must constantly be learning.

36

Continued Education: Local technical college courses, online certifications, industry specific seminars or lectures and internships, just to name a few.

TED Talks: Expert, motivational speakers. Watch.

Them. All. 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.

As we celebrate our 20th year of success we want to thank you.

Toastmasters International: Inexpensive way to improve your public speaking and leadership skills.

Staffing Agencies: always hiring. Get your foot in the door. Come see us at New Hire Solutions.

Network & Volunteer

Networking and volunteer opportunities are beneficial in so many ways. Not only are you using your talents to give back to your community, but you’re becoming a part of something bigger than yourself, opening doors to new opportunities and possibilities.

Chamber of Commerce: Get the 411 from the “Chamber Chicks” on local networking events and volunteer opportunities.

Women’s Forum: Inexpensive networking opportunity for women in our community.

Non-profit Organizations: Thomasville has too many to count. Hands on Thomas County is a good starting place. TM

We are Thomasville.

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

50 Years at the Console:

38

Celebrating Organist

Margaret Grady WRITTEN BY JULIE STRAUSS BETTINGER

A

“

”

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

s a child, Margaret Cox Grady always told her Even if it meant moving to Georgia. family that when she grew up, she wanted to Grady graduated from Stetson University with a degree live anywhere but Georgia, “because Georgia is in church music. Her major instrument was the organ just too hot.” and a connection through a roommate helped her land in And yet that’s where she’s made her Thomasville. home over the last 50 years as organist for Though fresh out of college, she was not intimidated by First Baptist Church of Thomasville. The church performing before a large audience at the church. “I [had community will celebrate Grady’s half century of service on been] playing in piano recitals since I was four, so you could Sunday, September 25, with a “Festival of Congregational say I’ve had a lot of training on how to handle nerves.”

Singing” in the newly renovated sanctuary. It will include Kathryn Kelly Upton studied under Grady as a high performances by a guest artist on the church’s recently reschooler and her family has been friends with Grady installed organ. since she was five years old. She credits Grady’s influence Grady is looking forward to being in the congregation for for helping her win several music scholarships and said a change.

When she relocated to Thomasville from Lakeland, Florida, in 1966, her fulltime job was organist and music associate. She also taught piano, worked with youth and provided administrative support. “I even edited the church bulletin,” she said.

After marrying Wiley Grady, they started their family and she became part-time organist and music assistant. So far, she has served under four pastors and four ministers of music.

“Margaret started here one month before I was born,” said Andy Daughtry, Thomasville Baptist’s Associate Pastor of Worship and Media. “The [fact] is quite funny and it’s not lost on her.”

Daughtry, who has headed up music ministry at First Baptist since 2013, said even after 50 years, “Margaret is still a vital part of our ministry.”

Having fingers on the keyboard came early Andy Daughtry, Minister of Music at First Baptist Church and Margaret Grady. for Grady. “I started piano lessons when I was three,” she said, “so I don’t even remember learning how that Grady has taught her more than anyone else about to play the piano. It’s like you don’t remember how you work ethic, discipline and the importance of advanced learned to walk.” preparation.

As a nine-year-old, Grady was accompanying choirs at Upton worked alongside Grady as a pianist for 23 years school and church. Very soon after, she started filling in for and sees her as one of the most influential people in her life. the organist at Southside Baptist in Lakeland. Somewhere “She lives biblically. She’s never strayed from her faith,” along the way, she knew it was to be her vocation.

Upton said.

Grady makes no apologies for her high standards. “Some people say I’m a perfectionist,” she said. “Most musicians When I was 13, I felt like probably are. We’re very detailed oriented. I make a lot of lists.” the Lord was leading me However, that high expectation and perfectionism into full time Christian represent only part of the story. “She is one of the funniest, most charming women you will ever meet in your life,” said service,” Grady said. “He Daughtry, “but when she leads a rehearsal, it’s all business.” blessed me with this talent For an organist to last this long in today’s world is testimony to Grady’s adaptability, says Rick Jordan. He and I dedicated it back to worked closely with Grady as Minister of Music and Youth from 1973 to 2013. Church music has undergone a Him, to lead me wherever vast number of changes, blending the traditional with the he wanted me to go. contemporary. But in the midst of the changes, “Margaret

39

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

was always gracious,” Jordon said. “She was willing to put the mission before the music.”

Jordan and his wife, Margie, have been close friends with Grady and their children grew up together. “She’s the sister I never had,” said Rick, whose only sister died shortly after birth. They even call each other “sister” and “brother.”

“People often mistakenly believe that organists just sit down and play,” Jordan said. In fact, music ministry requires hours and hours of practice each week and involves working nights, weekends, weddings and funerals – sometimes on short notice. All of this in addition to study, is what is required in order to keep up with the changes.

Playing the organ is also physically demanding, Daughtry relayed, which makes it more amazing that Grady has been able to stay the course. She’s had both knees, both hips and one of her shoulders replaced. “I outlived the parts in one of my hips,” she said, which meant another hip replacement this past January.

Grady was back at the organ in two weeks or less after the surgeries. That may explain her nickname, “The Super Bionic Woman.”

Asked about retirement, she says the Lord hasn’t given her a timeline. And she’s told Daughtry it’s not up to her, anyway. “You serve and you serve until God gives you the go-ahead to stop.” TM

All Invited to “Festival of Congregational Singing” On September 25, 2016, First Baptist Church of Thomasville is hosting a “Festival of Congregational Singing” to mark organist Margaret Grady’s 50 years as a key figure in the musical part of worship at the church. The event begins at 4:00 p.m. and will be followed by a catered reception.

Organ music will be provided by Dr. Al Travis, distinguished professor emeritus of organ at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also the organist and Director of Music at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth Texas.

Travis will be joined by a brass group and choir.

This event is free and open to the public.

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Thomasville and

services. Although we’d

42

departments are filled

Thomas County have another reliable public resource in local fire

prefer that firefighters were never headed to our homes, both

with professionals who

CLIMBING LADDER

exemplify efficiency, dedication and skill.

In addition to firefighting services, staff at both locations provide public education opportunities, training, first responder services and fire hazard protection, among many other things.

WRITTEN BY JENNIFER WESTFIELD

F

or this issue, we’d like to exemplify the three African-American women who have chosen to serve, and who work tirelessly in a male-dominated profession, to live out their career goals in the Thomasville or Thomas County fire service.

Thomas County Fire Rescue operates under Chief Chris Jones. Among his ranks are Chasity Phillips and Nisha Wilson.

Thomasville Fire Rescue’s Jasmine Rice has been in the news recently because of the historic strides she’s making as an African-American woman in the profession. She works under Fire Rescue Chief Chris Bowman.

These are Chasity, Nisha and Jasmine’s stories.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

y t i s a h C Phillips Having grown up in a fire station Quitman, a career in the field was in Chasity’s blood. “I have always enjoyed fire service because my dad is the fire chief in Quitman,” she said. “He would have been proud of me even if I did not become a firefighter.”

Chasity’s father, Chief Clay Lee Phillips is the first African-American fire chief of Quitman. “He told me nothing was beyond my reach. He is the glue that holds our family together,” she added.

Her career began when Chasity graduated from college and started teaching. “I became the fire safety teacher who would communicate with the fire department and I was head of our fire programs for the schools,” she said. “Years went by and I decided to take the chance with the fire department. [My father] gave me his blessing and I became the firefighter that I am today.”

Chasity is trained to manage truck preparedness, training and pre-plans calls on the way to a fire, where she must listen and quickly assess how best to fight the flames at that particular residence or building.

Over the last two years, Chasity has found a home at Thomas County Fire Rescue. “At the beginning, I had a little anxiety,” she said. “Not because of it being a maledominated profession, but because I did not want to fail.

The atmosphere at work is just like in any other home.

43

We are very close and they treat me like a little sister, even though, sometimes, I have to act like the big sister.”

In her line of work, Chasity says you must be a team player, have a sense of your surroundings and be able to take orders. “You have to remember that you’re doing this because you choose to do it,” she said. “Once an alarm sounds, your heart races and you listen. You have to make the correct decision on how to handle the fire. Even after you have extinguished it, you still feel a little sad knowing that someone has lost a home.”

Chasity plans to grow as a firefighter, continue her education and get more certifications. “Who knows?” she said. “One day I might be a fire chief.”

a h s i n y Eval Wilson Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Evalynisha “Nisha” Wilson has lived in Thomas County all her life. She is the mother of four children, from whom she gathers all of her drive. “They are my motivation,” she said. “I want to be their motivation, so I try to demonstrate the best for them to see that they can do anything they put their minds to.”

Three months ago, Nisha made the leap from corrections to the fire service. “I wanted to do something that I could put my heart into—something I’ve always wanted to do, and that was to become a firefighter,” she said.

Nisha began at Thomas County Fire Rescue in June as a recruit and is currently training for a Firefighter One certification at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in 44 Forsyth, where she maintains a 93% average.

“I was a little nervous about how to interact with nothing but males and thinking that I had to be all manly to do the tasks expected,” she said, “but that’s not the case at all. Everyone has something to bring to the table and it doesn’t have to be muscle. [Gender] doesn’t matter because firefighting skills come with reputation and a love for what there is to be done.”

She says that being a team player, a people person and having a positive attitude are what it takes on the job. “In order to help people, you have to know how to deal with people who are sometimes angry or plain-out rude,” she says. “That positive attitude will take you a long way in this career because you have so much to deal with on a daily basis.”

Nisha says she already loves Thomas County Fire Rescue, where they start recruits out doing everything, from being a drive operator or pump operator, to firefighting right out of the gate. “From the day you start, you learn everything,” she says.

As far as what drives her, aside from her children, Nisha says her grandmother has played a significant role. “She pushed me to do the best and always said, ‘You will have plenty of time to sleep, but now it’s time to work.’ She always told me to be better than she was, so I use that same technique with my kids, by setting a high standard for myself so that they have to go higher than me.”

Nisha plans to advance as a firefighter, she said, “by learning at every opportunity and advancing at every level.”

Photo courtesy of the City of Thomasville

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e n i m s Ja Rice Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Jasmine Rice is making history at Thomasville Fire Rescue. In 2013, she was the first African-American woman to join TFR. Then in August, she was the first AfricanAmerican woman to earn the rank of engineer there.

In addition to being a single mother to her children Marco Strickland, 11, and Mariah Dasher, 3, as an Engineer/EMT-A, Jasmine’s work duties are many. She is responsible for the operation of a firefighting apparatus; driving fire engines, ladder trucks and rescue apparatuses; establishing a water supply and regulating water pressure at the scene; and keeping fire trucks clean and stocked.

Her work in Thomasville began after the journey that led her to finishing firefighter school. Jasmine went job hunting 46 one day. Her father, like Chasity’s, was a fire chief. Since she could not apply to her father’s department over in Valdosta, where she was raised, she headed for Tallahassee to see what was available there.

“When I drove through Thomasville, I saw a fire truck parked at a store.” she said. “I pulled over and spoke to the gentleman on the truck, who was so friendly and gave me directions to the downtown station where I could speak with the chief. I arrived and was able to do that. The chief, who was also very friendly, said, ‘We could use a firefighter like you.’ I went and applied, took all of the tests and passed.”

Even before that, as the daughter of a fire chief, she saw the appeal of the job over the course of many years in her father’s station. “My dad would always bring me and my brother to work with him,” she said. “I saw how my dad and his firefighters were more than coworkers, but a family, with so much respect for each other. They would cook dinner and we would join them and play games. I always had an idea in the back of my mind that this was what I wanted to do with my life.”

Having grown up in a station also took the edge off Jasmine’s entrance as the first African-American woman at TFR. “Growing up with my brother, I’ve always hung around males, from playing football to riding bikes together. My best friend is a male.”

Jasmine says that her presence required a mutual adjustment between her and the guys. “In the beginning of my career here, I stayed to myself and observed how the guys responded to me and what they were about,” she said.

“Once I got comfortable with them, I started to open up.

Now they see I’m just like them and am capable of pulling my own weight.”

Inevitably, she says, there are going to be personality clashes when you’re essentially living on and off with 42 different people. “You will have some great days and some bad, but for the most part, we all get along,” she said. “We all want the same for everyone: that we go home to our families.”

Even when they are at home, Jasmine says, they have to provide their services and stay up running calls all night.

As far as the personality types go, she refers to the quote that begins, “It is called a brotherhood for a reason. We do not get to choose our brothers. We do not always like our brothers and sisters. We often have knock-down drag-out fights with them, but we all must learn to live with our brothers and sisters and get along with them […]”

Jasmine says that trust is of the utmost importance as a trait for being in public safety. “The public needs to trust us in order for us to do our jobs,” she said. Also important to the job are physical fitness, dedication, good people skills, staying cool under pressure and having heart, she says.

“For me, my first fire was very exciting,” Jasmine said. “I was so pleased with the leadership of this department and I stayed surprisingly calm and collected. I was so amazed at how the fire grew so quickly; it looked spectacular. Of course, I never wanted anyone to get hurt or lose their property, but when it happened, I wanted to be there helping.”

It wasn’t until her first fire as an engineer that Jasmine felt the pressure. “I’ll remember that day forever,” she said.

“My legs have never shaken so much, but I got through it

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Despite her achievements, Jasmine has no plans to stop climbing the ladder. She’s preparing to get her Associate’s degree in fire science, become a CPR instructor and finish her paramedics education. “Maybe someday in the near future,” she said, “I’ll become the state fire marshal.” TM

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

and was more than proud of myself for being able to keep my calm and provide water to my team.”

Jasmine credits her drive to her father and is equally thankful for the stepmother she gained after her mother passed away when she was very young. “[My stepmother] really gave me the courage to believe that my dreams of becoming a firefighter could turn into reality,” she said.

“She has helped me take care of my kids, so I wouldn’t be able to do what I’ve always wanted to do without her.”

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48

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

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WE TEAMED UP TO GET YOU ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY. When a major illness or injury sets you back, access to the right therapy services is critical for recovery. That’s why Thomasville Physical Therapy and Archbold Medical Center have teamed up. Together, we now offer seamless and unparalleled access to the most therapy providers and services in the region—the ones that will help you return to your everyday activities healthy and strong.

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Women’s Forum: Connect, Network and Stay Informed WRITTEN BY TRACEY SANFORD GIEMZA

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016 51

The 2016 Scholarship recipients present their checks along with members of the organization.

C

onnections happen every month at Women’s Forum of Thomasville-Thomas County, where all women are welcome. The purpose of Women’s Forum is to bring together diverse women who focus on the personal and professional advancement of all women.

Dynamic women of all ages start appearing with smiles on their faces and an unmistakable energy. Bankers, business owners, sales representatives, homemakers, job hunters, physicians and those new to the area are among the eager members who gather.

Some come bearing the latest news from their professions. Others share personal insights about their lives. It’s clear these ladies all have one mission on their mind: To connect.

Former Women’s Forum Chair, Stephanie White, said, “I not only love the networking but I have formed many strong bonds with many of the members that I may not have otherwise ever met.”

Members not only enhance their own personal and professional lives but look to the future of fellow women in our community.

“I believe Women’s Forum is a great asset to the ladies

of this community,” said Lauren Basford, member and Executive Director of the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce. “It gives its members the opportunity to build relationships with other women in the business community which can inspire business leads, referrals and friendships. There is also a wonderful educational component that seeks to encourage, motivate and empower all women.”

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016 52

Thomasviile-Thomas County Women's Forum 2016 board: Pictured from left to right; Mary Beveridge, Stephanie White, Gayle Hicks, President Kathy Megahee, Rebecca Cannady, Jackie Spadoni, Christina Reneau, Fran Puryear, Jennifer Christie, Snookie Brown and Missy Taylor. Not pictured: Christy Layfield, Amanda Gates, Laura Pike and Tammi Mott.

HEARD

Current Chair, Executive Director of Thomas County Family Connection, Kathy Magahee, concurs. “Women’s Forum provides an avenue for women of all ages and career backgrounds to collaborate, make new connections and share ideas that improve members’ wellbeing as well as the community we share.“ Women’s Forum sponsors annual college scholarships for young ladies in Thomasville county, city and private

schools, as a way for members to pay it forward to the next generation of women.

Women’s Forum is held at noon on the second Tuesday of every month at Southern Regional Technical College in Building A, Room 132. Ladies can expect to enjoy a catered lunch, networking and to engage in discussion on informative topics, ranging from women’s heath to community news to business trends. TM

at the Forum:

“I love the networking.

It’s great to get to Share experiences and bounce ideas.”

“It’s so nice to have so many great women in one room at one time.”

-Angela Kiminas

-Heather Abbott

“I have formed strong bonds with many of the members that I may not have otherwise never met. ” -Stephanie Fewell White

“Wonderful to be exposed to so

many young, successful business women in these challenging times. Fabulous support is found from these very busy women!”

-Susan Haberkorn

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

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Covey Film Festival 2016

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

w o m e n Through Film

SUBMITTED BY THOMASVILLE’S COVEY FILM FESTIVAL

Leadership, ingenuity and courage take female form in several featured films at this year’s Covey Film Festival.

Now in its fourth year, Thomasville’s Covey Film Festival returns this October, with all proceeds benefiting the Thomasville Community Resource Center.

TCRC provides after school academic support and enrichment programs throughout the year for more than 350 local children.

In addition to airing an impressive list of award-winning independent films, the festival features visiting celebrity ambassadors, speaker-led workshops and a short-film competition for student producers. For this issue, here is a compilation of films airing at this year’s festival with themes of female perseverance, problem solving and strength.

Many Beautiful Things

Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise

Distinctly referred to as “a redwood tree, with deep, deep roots in American culture,” icon Maya Angelou gives people the freedom to think about their history in a way they never had before. Dr. Angelou’s was a prolific life; as a singer, dancer, activist, poet and writer she inspired generations with lyrical, modern African-American thought that pushed boundaries.

This film celebrates Dr. Maya Angelou by weaving her words with rare and intimate archival photographs and videos, which paint hidden moments of her exuberant life during some of America’s most defining civil rights moments.

From her upbringing in the Depression-era South, to her swinging soirées with Malcolm X in Ghana, to her inaugural speech for President Bill Clinton, we are given special access to interviews with Angelou, whose indelible charm and quick wit make it easy to love her. Skillfully crafted with heart and ease, this film reflects the vibrant spirit of an American legend who fought for what she believed in.

— Sundance Institute

Mustang

In a village in Northern Turkey, five free-spirited teenaged sisters splash about on the beach with their male classmates.

Though their games are merely innocent fun, a neighbor passes by and reports what she considers to be illicit behavior to the girls’ family. The family overreacts, removing all “instruments of corruption,” like cell phones and computers, essentially imprisoning the girls and subjecting them to endless lessons in housework, in preparation for them to become brides. As the eldest sisters are married off, the younger ones bond together to avoid the same fate. The fierce love between them empowers them to rebel and chase a future where they can determine their own lives.

— Cohen Media Group

Sonita

As a female rapper in conservative Iran, Sonita’s talents are a liability. But Sonita insists on dreaming big. Her beats are as solid as stones, her rhymes are fierce and her videos are a piercing howl against the constant injustice, fear and sexism that women endure. It is only a matter of time before her charismatic presence and spirited eyes change her fortune and with the help of acclaimed director Rokhsareh Ghaemmaghami, she is offered a scholarship that leads her on a dangerous trip back to Afghanistan and ultimately to Utah. All the while, Sonita’s conservative mother insists she must be married off soon, at a price, and threatens to derail Sonita’s life at its most critical juncture.

An intimate portrait of creativity and womanhood, Sonita highlights the rarely seen intricacies and shifting contrasts of Iranian society through the lens of an artist who is defining the next generation.

— Sundance Institute

The Babushkas of Chernobyl

In the radioactive Dead Zone surrounding Chernobyl’s Reactor No. 4, a defiant community of women scratches out an existence on some of the most toxic land on Earth. They share this hauntingly beautiful but lethal landscape with an assortment of interlopers — scientists, soldiers and even “stalkers” — young thrill-seekers who sneak in to pursue postapocalyptic video game-inspired fantasies. Why the film’s central characters, Hanna Zavorotyna, Maria Shovkuta and Valentyna Ivanivna, chose to return after the disaster, defying the authorities and endangering their health, is a remarkable tale about the pull of home, the healing power of shaping one’s destiny and the subjective nature of risk.

— Official movie Website: thebabushkasofchernobyl.com

What Happened, Miss Simone?

A classically trained musical genius, chart-topping chanteuse and Black Power icon, Nina Simone is one of the most influential, beloved, provocative and least understood artists of our time. On stage, she was known for utterly free, rapturous performances, earning her the epithet “High Priestess of Soul.” But amid the violent, day-to-day fight for civil rights, she struggled to reconcile artistic ambition with her fierce devotion to a movement.

Director Liz Garbus sensitively explores the constant state of opposition that trapped and tortured Simone— as a classical pianist pigeonholed in jazz, as a professional boxed in by family life, as a black woman in racist America —and in so doing, reveals a towering figure transcending categorization and her times. The film stays true to Simone's subjectivity by mining never-before-heard tapes, rare archival footage and interviews with close friends and family.

— Sundance Institute

Visit www.coveyfilmfestival.com for this year’s full movie lineup and for information about sponsorships.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Many Beautiful Things is the untold story of one of the world’s greatest female artists, whose name was nearly lost to history. Viewers enter Victorian England to meet Lilias Trotter, a daring young woman who defies all norms by winning the favor of England’s top art critic, John Ruskin.

In an era when women were thought incapable of producing high art, Ruskin promises that her work could be “immortal.”

With her legacy on the line, Lilias makes a stunning decision that bids us to question the limits of sacrifice. As she journeys to French Algeria in the late 1800’s to pioneer missionary work with women and children, viewers are left to wonder, should you abandon a dream to pursue your true calling?

— Official movie Website: www.manybeautifulthings.com

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56 Thomasville ThomasvilleMagazine Magazine//SUMMER FALL 20162016

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Thomasville Thomasville Magazine Magazine / FALL / FALL 20162016

Rings, Earrings, & Bracelets starting at $150 & up.

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M Shop The Pink Valise Boutique, M Thomasville ThomasvilleMagazine Magazine//FALL FALL2016 2016

where we have a passion for fashion and a cure for cancer.

Offering the most stylish junior, women and plus size apparel.

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Offering DeliciOus, frOm scratch Breakfast anD lunch

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We carry Southern Cross, Jadelynn Brooke, Southern Darlin’, Ariat, Red Ranch and Laredo!

We Now Carry XS - Plus Sizes

116 E Jackson St 122 N Broad Street Hours Tuesday-Saturday 7-2

Downtown Thomasville, GA

229.224.5590 www.shopsecboutique.com

Brandon L. Godwin Architect, LLC Architecture • Professional Art • Planning

229.236.2220 229.224.6181

Office Cell

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Thomasville ThomasvilleMagazine Magazine/FALL / FALL2016 2016

Serving î Žomasville for 12 years

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So.Ho. is a Modern Southern restaurant inspired by looking to the many fascinating flavors and techniques found in Asian cuisine.

Boasting an attractive dining room, a full bar, and a charming event space upstairs with a gorgeous view of downtown, So.Ho. is perfect for a casual lunch meeting, an intimate and romantic evening, or your next grand celebration. Come enjoy the view with us at So.Ho. – as we are Southern Looking East.

112 N Broad Street | Thomasville, GA 31792 | (229) 236-7646

Lagniappe is gold for Your Business

WRITTEN BY DARA BARWICK

So, what’s the reality from the business side?

Surviving and thriving in business requires going way beyond the basics of product or service, accounting, purchasing and selling. Being a competitive entrepreneur in today’s marketplace requires preparing for a journey of being agile, inquisitive and creative.

Can you feel the burn?

The competition for business is not just Walmart anymore. It wasn’t that long ago, when businesses in towns across America dreaded seeing Walmart establish a brick and mortar presence. That dread may still exist, but, unless your brand is trying to be the lowest-price competitor, look further to track your competition. I hope that’s not your business strategy, because it won’t work and it’s a battle to the bottom.

But, what about Amazon? Amazon’s value is convenience, a wide selection, solid packaging and fast delivery. Amazon’s lagniappe is the free 2-day shipping that you get with Amazon Prime. Is Prime actually a good deal? That will take some research and comparison shopping to know for sure. Are you willing to spend the time or does it really matter to you? If it feels like lagniappe, it’s probably lagniappe.

It’s no surprise that online companies are viewed as serious competition, and that’s not going away. As a matter of fact, 56% of the U.S. population is expected to spend $327 billion online in 2016, according to Forrester Research.)

If you have an online presence, you can reap part of the $327 billion harvest. Is it something you’re considering? Or, are you already represented with a well done, user-friendly website that has professional photos of your products or services? Remember to add the shopping cart! It’s not quite that simple, but if millions of others do it, so can you. Be agile in business.

Back to lagniappe, the entrepreneur’s gold nugget.

Assuming you have an excellent product or service and the basics are covered, now it’s time to figure out that something extra. Can it be as simple as a wonderful customer experience?

I find that a positive customer experience is memorable and almost always generates word of mouth accolades, which in turn send you more customers. A bad experience is also memorable and generates word of mouth stories, but these are not the ones you want told about your business. Customer service has become so poor and the way of business, that I sometimes consider excellent service “a little something extra,” and that’s a real shame. A good example is Chick-Fil-A versus, well, many other food franchises. Publix versus other grocery stores. You get it.

There are numerous ways to provide lagniappe.

It doesn’t have to be free donuts. Think about this.

How do you know you’re stocking the merchandise your customers or prospects want most? You can’t read their minds, right? Amazon offers a lot more products than you do and they track your preferences,

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Mark Twain called it an excellent word.

He picked it up in the 1880’s on a trip to New Orleans. Lagniappe (pronounced “lan-yap”) is the little something extra, the chocolate mint with the restaurant bill or the pineapple-infused water in the hotel lobby.

I call it gold. I admit to being a customer service junkie, addicted to the possibility of finding businesses that do it well. They are around, here and there, like nuggets of gold painstakingly dredged from the mountain stream of consumer goods and services. When I discover a gold nugget business, I return again and again, choosing to spend my money there.

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

so they’re able to sell something to just about any shopper.

I don’t remember ever being asked about my preferences by a local business owner or sales associate. I would consider it a little something extra if my preferences were important to the businesses where I spend my hard-earned money. Be inquisitive in your business. It’s not about you. It’s all about the customer.

In my business, I enjoy getting to know my clients beyond the consulting project. The benefits to me include building lasting relationships and being able to offer help or inspiration in areas of interest to my clients apart from the project. In turn, the benefits my clients receive include working with someone who sincerely cares about the project outcome and continuing to have access to my skills and expertise as a resource and friend.

The lagniappe I happily give to my clients varies because I strive to make it a personal token, and I can do that because I work in a niche business which doesn’t require that I chase after high volume. I see myself as fortunate in this way. I don’t want to be Amazon or Walmart, although it would be great fun to spend their profits.

Lagniappe can look like many things. If you have a high volume of customers, you’ll need to create lagniappe that

doesn’t strain your profit margin. Loyalty programs can offer benefits to customers and make them more likely to buy again and again. If you sell clothing, perhaps you could reward your customers who spend a certain amount a discount off their next purchase or a free specialty tee shirt with beautiful design and the softest cotton.

If you’re a maker and sell handmade aprons, your lagniappe might be a cellophane and ribbon wrapped cookie surprise in the pocket of every apron sold from your online shop. Does that cut into your bottom line too deeply? Just tuck a handwritten thank you note or inspiring quote into that apron pocket. I promise you this: That customer or person receiving the gift will tell others about you. Be creative in your business.

It’s the lagniappe. That little something extra that sets you apart from all the others. The experience you give your customers is unforgettable. Be that business, the one we all crave. I believe you can do it. TM

Dara Barwick is the founder of a boutique consulting firm, specializing in organizational culture solutions for businesses and nonprofits. She can be contacted via email: dara@darabarwick.com.

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Savannah Court of Camilla

is a Personal Care Home nestled on a beautiful setting offering gracious hospitality in a comfortable and elegant atmosphere including: • 24-hour access to trained friendly associates • Restaurant-style dining program • Linen and housekeeping services • Fun and meaningful activities • Scheduled transportation • Day Service and Respite available • Spacious porches • Assistance with medication and personalized resident service plans • Specialized services for those with Alzheimer’s disease or related memory impairment • Also offering Independent Living - 2 bedroom/2 bath and 1 bedroom/1 bath PCH Permit No.009065

Retirement PCH Community

Savannah Court of Camilla 161 East Broad Street, Camilla, GA 31730

229-336-0869

www.SavannahCourtCamilla.com Signature Community of Senior Living Management Corporation

Thomsville-Thomas County Visitors Center

Historic Thomasville, Georgia

Listed events are subject to change; please verify event dates and times prior to scheduling activities.

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Visit www.thomasvillega.com for the current Thomasville area calendar of events.

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Call 229-228-7977 or toll free at 1-866-577-3600, with questions, comments or submissions. Stop in the Thomasville Visitors Center (144 East Jackson Street, Thomasville, GA 31799) for the most up to the minute information. This calendar is included as submitted by Thomasville Main Street and Visitors Center.

SEPTEMBER 2016 September 15-22, 2016 One Book: A Thomas County Community Read Times and locations vary, Thomasville, GA One Book Thomas County is South Georgia's first-ever One Book festival. Like so many cities and communities across the country, Thomas County is annually devoting its time and energy into reading one book together as a community.

Each year, our county spends a week honoring a selected book and its author(s), conducting a variety of community events designed to get people excited about literacy. Now in its fourth year, One Book continues to bring the entire Thomas County area together with the power of the written word. This year’s One Book Thomas County is Ecology of a Cracker Childhood by Janisse Ray. Grab your own copy at The Bookshelf, 126 S. Broad St. or check out a copy at the Thomas County Public Library, 201 N. Madison St. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned for this year’s One Book Thomas County. For more info visit www.onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

September 15, 2016 One Book Thomas County: One Word – A Night of Ecology-Inspired Poetry 7:00pm, Grassroots Coffee, 118 S. Broad St., Thomasville, GA – One Book Thomas County invites you to One Word – A Night of EcologyInspired Poetry. This event is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22. For more info visit www.onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

September 16, 2016 One Book Thomas County: Longleaf The Heart of Pine – A Documentary Film and Discussion 12:00pm, Thomas County Public Library, 201 N. Madison St., Thomasville, GA – One Book Thomas County invites you to Longleaf - The Heart of Pine – A Documentary Film and Discussion.

This event is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22. For more info visit www. onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

September 17, 2016 One Book Thomas County: Writing Workshop 10:00am-12:00pm, Thomasville Municipal Auditorium Reception Room, 144 E. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA – One Book Thomas County invites you to A Writing Workshop. This event is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22. For more info visit www. onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

September 18, 2016 One Book Thomas County: Wagon and Fire Ecology Tour at Tall Timbers 3:00pm, Tall Timbers Research Station, 13093 Henry Beadel Dr., Tallahassee, FL – One Book Thomas County invites you to Wagon and Fire Ecology Tour at Tall Timbers. This event is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22.

For more info visit www.onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

Thomsville-Thomas County Visitors Center Historic Thomasville, Georgia September 19, 2016 One Book Thomas County: The Lost Art of Canning

September 20, 2016 Thomasville Entertainment Foundation Presents The Havana Cuba All-Stars 7:30pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 E. Washington St., Thomasville, GA –The All-Stars band embarks on a debut tour of the U.S. and Canada

September 21, 2016 One Book Thomas County: Lunch and Learn at Studio 209 12:00pm, Studio 209, 209 W. Remington Ave., Thomasville, GA – One Book Thomas County invites you to Lunch and Learn. This event is free and open to the public. Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22. For more info visit www.onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

GREEN’S Air Conditioning & Commercial Refrigeration

Providing Comfort Where You Live, Work and Play

Residential • Commercial Sales • Service • Installation • Air Conditioning Sales and Service • Commercial Refrigeration and Air Conditioning • Heat Pump and Heating Sales Service • Ice Machine Sales and Leasing

ph H a m p t on In n o f Th o m a sv i l l e

229.228.5700 greensair.com

211 Feming St. • Thomasville, Georgia financing available

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

7:00pm, TBA Downtown Church, Thomasville, GA – One Book Thomas County invites you to The Lost Art of Canning. This event is free and open to the public.

Make plans to attend all the exciting events planned from September 15-22. For more info visit www. onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

with an exciting program celebrating Cuba’s cultural diversity and extraordinary musical legacy. A Columbia Artists Production under the auspices of the Cuban Ministry of Culture and Asere Friendship Tour. For tickets or info call 229-226-7404 or visit www. tefconcerts.com. $38 adults | $15 students Info: Janice Faircloth, 229-226-7404, tef@rose.net

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

September 21, 2016 United Way Kickoff

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12:00pm, Plaza Restaurant, 217 S. Broad St., Thomasville, GA – This year’s Kickoff speaker is Shawn Jones, 1990 National Championship Quarterback for Georgia Tech. He is also in the Georgia Tech Sports Hall of Fame and in the Thomasville-Thomas County Sports Hall of Fame. RSVP required and donations will be accepted. For more info contact Rebecca Cannady at 229-228-0560. Info: Rebecca Cannady, 229-228-0560, uniteway@rose.net

September 22, 2016 One Book Thomas County: Meet and Greet Ecology of a Cracker Childhood’s Author Janisse Ray 7:00pm, Southern Regional Technical College, 15689 US-19, Thomasville, GA – Come meet the author of this year’s One Book Thomas County’s Community Read Ecology of a Cracker Childhood. Embrace Your Beginnings. Fight for the Place You Love. $10 per person. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit www. onebookthomascounty.org Info: Nancy Tillinghast, 229-225-5252, info@tcpls.org

September 24, 2016 3rd Annual Warrior Run Time TBA, Brookwood School, 301 Cardinal Ridge Rd., Thomasville, GA - 3rd Annual Warrior Run 5k and Fun Run. Info: Kelly Campbell, 229-226-8070, kcampbell@brookwoodschool. org

September 24, 2016 Dinner on the Bricks for the Vashti Center 6:00-10:00pm, TBA - Have fun, get creative, and support children in need by purchasing a table at this fun-filled outdoor dinner party.

Tables of eight start at just $300 each, with all proceeds going to children's programs at The Vashti Center. Guests are encouraged (but not required) to create their own tablescapes with themes. Costumes are welcome! Bring your own dinner fare or enlist your favorite caterer. Awards will be presented for tables decor!

For great ideas, please view pictures of our 2015 event posted on the Dinner on the Bricks Facebook page. Info: Susan O’Neal, 229-226-4634, sasano@vashti.org

OCTOBER 2016 October 6-8, 2016 Great Southern Music Festival Times vary, Picker’s Paradise Park, 2217 Maddox Rd. Ochlocknee, GA 31773 - Make plans today to visit Great Southern Music Festival for some great bluegrass music. Whether you like the traditional Bluegrass style of music, or the more progressive Newgrass styles, we have a little bit of it all at this South Georgia Bluegrass festival. Bluegrass music is our specialty. For more info call 229-221-5467 or visit www.pickersparadisepark.com Info: Pat Tillman, 229-221-5467

October 7, 2016 First Friday Concert featuring Ozell Road 7:30-9:30pm, Corner of Broad St. and Remington Ave., Thomasville, GA - Ozell Road is the love child of five of South Georgia's most musically talented and free spirited young men. From the classics of Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, the Allman Brothers, and the Doobies to the new upbeat sounds of John Mayer, Sublime, Weezer, and MGMT all the way to Gnarls Barkley, The Commodores, and mash-ups of your favorite Top 40 hits, Ozell Road has a little something for everyone. The concert is FREE! Participating shops and restaurants will stay open late. Look for special pricing and deals all over downtown! Bring your lawn chair or blanket and spend a fun evening in Downtown Thomasville. For more info call 229-228-7977 or toll free 866-577-3600. Info: Sarah Turner, 229-227-7020, visit@thomasville.org

October 13, 2016 Landmarks Annual Membership Picnic and Preservation Awards 5:30-8:00pm, Susina Plantation, 1420 Meridian Rd., Thomasville, GA – More details to follow. Info: Mary Lawrence Lang, 229-226-6016, marylawrence@rose.net

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016 68

October 14-16, 2016 Thomasville Fly-In

October 19-29, 2016 Covey Film Festival

Varies, Thomasville Regional Airport, 882 Airport Rd., Thomasville, GA – See all types of aircraft from lovingly restored classics to shiny new homebuilts and everything in between. The kids always enjoy the candy drop, and everyone seems to enjoy the food, but the best thing about the Thomasville Fly-In is the people who come to support us and stay to visit a while.

Times and locations vary, Thomasville, GA – More details coming soon! All proceeds from the Covey Film Festival benefit the Thomasville Community Resource Center. Info: Lisa Billups, 229-226-5846, tcred@rose.net

Friday 10:00am-4:00pm – Aircraft arriving all day, traffic heaviest mid to late afternoon 6:00pm – Supper begins Saturday 7:00-9:00am – Breakfast served 10:00am-4:00pm – Hot dogs and hamburgers served 2:30pm Candy drop 4:00pm Spot landing contest 6:00pm Dinner Dark-11:00pm Bonfire Sunday 7:30-9:00am Breakfast served 8:30am Non-denominational worship service in terminal building 12:00pm Fly-In over

9:00am-1:00pm, Various Sites Throughout Thomas County - HOTC DAY - a giant volunteer-athon with 1400+ of your friends, neighbors and colleagues followed by a Celebration Luncheon for volunteers at Cherokee Lake Park. Sign up to volunteer and you’ll receive an HOTC t-shirt, lunch from Granddaddy’s BBQ and the reward of a job well done.

VOLUNTEER NOW! Individuals, families, groups and businesses are encouraged to sign up to help at 60+ different sites. Info: Angela Kiminas, 229-226-5200, info@handsonthomascounty.org

Info: Thomasville Aviation Club, Irv NeSmith, 229-403-1071, irvneva@earthlink.net

4:00pm-dark, MacIntyre Park, Corner of Glenwood Dr. and Washington St., Thomasville, GA - Bring your picnic, chairs, blanket and your family and enjoy the music of Garnet and Brass from Tallahassee, FL. From favorite classics to pop and jazz, this program is sure to have something for everyone. Garnet and Brass mixes education and entertainment seamlessly with the energy and brilliance of a brass quintet to deliver an unforgettable experience. Family fun for all ages. The event is free and open to the public. Info: TEF, 229-226-7404, tef@rose.net

October 15, 2016 Thomas County Historical Society’s Annual Fundraising Dinner “Mystery at the Museum” 5:00-9:00pm, Thomas County Museum of History, 725 N. Dawson St., Thomasville, GA – Make plans to attend the Thomas County Historical Society’s Annual Fundraising event “Mystery at the Museum.” More details coming soon. For more info call 229-226-7664 or visit www.thomascounthistory.org Info: Amelia Gallo, 229-226-7664, amelia@thomascountyhistory.org

October 22, 2016 HOTC Day & Luncheon

October 22, 2016 Old Fashioned PICNIC IN THE PARK (MacIntyre Park) presented by Thomasville Entertainment Foundation and Thomasville Center for the Arts

October 27, 2016 Thomasville Entertainment Foundation Presents Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble

7:30pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 E. Washington St., Thomasville, GA – Drawn from the principal players of the acclaimed ASMF Chamber Orchestra, this eight-member ensemble of strings

WALKING WITH PRIDE

Kenneth Council "I was very impressed with the staff, especially Kerry, my physical therapist. She is very knowledgeable and has given me valuable information to use outside of therapy to help with my overall health. I loved the people and staff, and I consider them family!

I'm pleased with my care and grateful to God for leading me in Life Care's direction. I am a better man for going to Camelia Gardens. All of the staff were kind and gave me what I needed."

––Kenneth Council, received post-surgical rehabilitation at Camelia Gardens of Life Care.

973746

76549

229.226.0076 • CamelliaGardensOfLifeCare.com 804 S. Broad Street • Thomasville, GA • Joint Commission accredited

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

and winds promises a riveting performance of the Schubert Octet along with works by Rossini and Mozart.

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"The performances by ASMF Chamber Ensemble are nothing short of stunning..."

– Gramophone For more information or tickets call 229-2267404 or visit www.tefconcerts.com. $38 adults | $15 students Info: Janice Faircloth, 229-2267404, tef@rose.net

October 28, 2016 6th Annual Lives Without Limits Auction & Banquet 6:00pm, Door Open, 7:00pm, Dinner – Exchange Club Fairgrounds, 2057 GA Hwy 122 (Pavo Rd.), Thomasville, GA - Silent and Live Auctions, games and raffles. Dress up optional for Halloween (but kid friendly affair so modest outfits due to children attending). “Our mission is to honor the courage and spirit of individuals living with a disability by providing outdoor recreation and specialized medical equipment at little to no cost."

Info: Mandy Vickers Zahniser, 229-236-5965, mzhniser@lwlga.org

October 28-30, 2016 Boston Mini-Marathon and Festival Downtown Boston, GA - For more info and applications, visit www.bostonga.com Friday Events 6:00pm – Cookoff Event 7:30pm – Band in Watt Park Saturday Events 8:00am – Run/Walk events 9:00am – Arts & Crafts & Food Court Open 10:30am – Costume Contest 11:00am – Awards Ceremony 11:30am – Parade 1:00pm – Live Entertainment in Watt Park 1:00pm – History of Boston 2:00pm – Live Entertainment in Watt Park 3:00pm – Cook-off Winners Announced Sunday Event 1:30pm – Trail Ride Info: Boston Community Club, 229-498-6743

NOVEMBER 2016 November 3, 2016 Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet

5:00pm, Location TBA – More information coming soon! Info: Christina Reneau, 229-226-9600, Christina@thomasvillechamber.com

November 4, 2016 First Friday Concert featuring Bleu Burden

November 10, 2016 23rd Annual Thomasville-Thomas County Sports Hall of Fame Banquet 7:00-9:00am, Thomasville High School, 315 S. Hansell St., Thomasville, GA - The Sports Hall

November 11, 2016 Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival Longleaf Affair 6:00pm, Pebble Hill Plantation, 1251 US Hwy 319 S., Thomasville, GA – A black-tie dinner featuring two Master French Chefs, Sea Island's Jonathan Jerusalmy and Charleston's Nico Romo, will prepare this year's five-course dinner. The intimate evening is held in the exclusive dining room at Pebble Hill Plantation. Guests are entered into a Game of Chance to select an art piece from this year's Featured Artists, painter Lyn St. Clair and sculptor Walter Matia. Info: Thomasville Center for the Arts, 229-226-0588, info@thomasvillearts.org

Print works.

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% of merchants said that catalogs are their primary sales channel, while websites came in second at 20%. Direct mail is an essential mechanism in the marketing mix for converting desire and intention into action.

(The Value of Print, Printing Industries of America)

800.622.0676 www.panaprint.com 7979 NE Industrial Blvd Macon, Georgia 31216

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

7:30-9:30pm, Corner of W. Jackson St. and Stevens St., Thomasville, GA - Bleu Burden is a local band who enjoy playing feel good music from a variety of genres. The concert is FREE! Bring your lawn chair or blanket and spend a fun evening in Downtown Thomasville. For more info call 229-228-7977 or toll free 866-577-3600.

of Fame recognizes outstanding local athletes, coaches, officials and people who have made major contributions to the sports tradition of Thomasville and Thomas County. Tickets are $20 and will be available at the YMCA in mid-October. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Info: Tom Everett, 229-226-3446, teverett@ymac-thomasville.org

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Allen & Allen

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Brandon Jackson April 27, 1948 – March 31, 2016

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Ormand Edwards Hunter Nov 7,1929 – April 1, 2016 Eldon Jefferson Lewis Dec 12, 1927 – April 1,2016 Arlene Hancock Jan 7,1920 – April 5, 2016 Flossie Ernestine Richardson Feb 8, 1921 – April 5, 2016 James Lee Doyle Oct 11,1950 – April 6, 2016 Thomas Lee Applewhite May 12, 1942 – April 6, 2016 Charles Glover Mar 10, 1945 – April 9, 2016 Emily Fields Dec 19, 1927 – April 8, 2016 Ruth Smith Mitchell Sept 28,1921 – April 13, 2016

Jacqueline Shoen Oct 25, 1925 – April 13, 2016

Ralph Strickland Nov 17, 1928 – May 1, 2016

Jack Randall Nov 2, 1930 – May 15, 2016

Marlene Patterson Nov 23, 1932 – April 16, 2016

Cooper Dean, Sr. Feb 18, 1958 – May 1, 2016

Ronald Jackson Dec 28, 1944 – May 15, 2016

Ross Garrison Mar 16, 1931 – April 18, 2016

Jessie Sellers, Jr. June 25, 1938 – May 1, 2016

Elizabeth Maddox Dec 23, 1923 – May 20, 2016

Claude Lindsey, Jr. Sept 22, 1960 – April 18, 2016

Hattie Mills Oct 11, 1921 – May 2, 2016

Nova Adams May 17, 2016 – May 17, 2016

Kelly Stringer Sept 24, 1966 – April 12, 2016

Eileen Griner Mar 5, 1949 – May 2, 2016

Carl Snellgrove Dec 28, 1932 – May 22, 2016

Walter Lasch Oct 24, 1948 – April 20, 2016

Eunice Turner Dec 1, 1926 – May 3, 2016

Lawanna Hay June 21, 1924 – May 23, 2016

Patricia Reger Aug 18, 1960 – April 23, 2016

Susan Burt July 13, 1920 – May 5, 2016

Richard Spurlin Mar 4, 1939 – May 23, 2016

Mariella Anderson Dorothy Ennis June 26, 1927 – April 23, 2016 April 3, 1933 – May 10, 2016

Alonzo Bentley Sr. Nov 3, 1936 – May 27, 2016

Billie Schneebeli July 11, 1921 – April 25, 2016

Edna Adams April 22, 1915 – May 11, 2016

Joseph Williams Aug 13, 1960 – May 27, 2016

Michael Kreis Jan 10, 1951 – April 27, 2016

Esther Pilkinton April 2, 1915 – May 11, 2016

Agnes Ellis June 8, 1926 – May 27, 2016

June Jones July 03, 1963 – April 30, 2016

Ruby Watson July 27, 1937 – May12, 2016

James Sherrod, Sr. June 25, 1930 – May 29, 2016

A Listing of Local Deaths in Our Community.

Names and dates provided by Allen & Allen Funeral Home and Whiddon-Shiver Funeral Home

Robert Benton Nov 9, 1933 – May 31, 2016 Scott Milberg July 8, 1971 – May 30, 2016

Thomas Suber Nov 12, 1944 – June 4, 2016 Clara Barnett July 10, 1942 – June 6, 2016 John Tumblson Mar 22, 1943 – June 6, 2016 Bobby Farmer June 23, 1938 – June 10, 2016 James Norman May 8, 2016 – June 11, 2016 Thomas Curtis Oct 15, 1934 – June 13, 2016 Mary Jones Dec 28, 1925 – June 15, 2016 Vidula Williams April 26, 1926 – June 16, 2016 Luther Coleman, III Au 8, 1960 – June 20, 2016 Ida Bowman Nov 17, 1926 – June 22, 2016 Thomas Ellis, Jr. Jan 18, 1931 – June 24, 2016

Whiddon-Shiver Theresa Elizabeth (Quinn) Davis Feb 2, 1955 - May 1, 2016

Tommy Ray Sadler Jan 20, 1963 - May 20, 2016 Frank Thomas Holt III July 27, 1918 - May 26, 2016 Virginia Frances Ball June 15, 1922 - May 26, 2016 Glinda Dale (Wilson) Hunter May 23, 1947 - May 31, 2016 James Harold April 7, 1932 - June 1, 2016 Curtis, Jr. Harley July 26, 1949 - June 4, 2016 Jessie D, Sr. Lairsey Dec 14, 1948 - June 14, 2016 Felecia Ann (Miller) Bryan Oct 8, 1968 - June 17, 2016 Earl Peek May 13, 1934 - June 17, 2016 Ronald Martin McCall Oct 2, 1955 - June 26, 2016 Marvin Carl Patterson Mar 23, 1947 - June 27, 2016 Dolly M Patterson Aug 19, 1952 - June 27, 2016 Bobby Jack Dupree May 16, 1941 - June 27, 2016 Betty (Singletary) Spray Feb 2, 1945 - July 4, 2016 Julia Ann (Morris) Jan 31, 1935 - July 9, 2016

Freddie, Sr. Eubanks July 19, 1928 - July 16, 2016

Melba Jean (Hall) Johnson Nov 14, 1938 - Aug 5, 2016

Roscoe, Jr. Hayward Jan 12, 1931 - July 25, 2016

Clara Jane (Whitecotton) Gaskins May 4, 1926 - Aug 5, 2106

Robert Howard Cooper July 5, 1947 - July 26, 2016 Robert, Sr. Lee Carter Dec 21, 1931 - July 28, 2016 Nancy (Hagman) Kirkendoll Oct 25, 1942 - Aug 2, 2016

David Michael Cochran Dec 2, 1964 - Aug 8, 2016 Annie Laura (Chance) Stripling April 3, 1931 - Aug 9, 2016

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Mary Reinhart June 13, 1917 – June 2, 2016

Martha Juanita (Hickman) Webb Mar 8, 1929 - May 12, 2016

73

LIST OF ADVERTISERS

Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2016

Allen & Allen Funeral Home............................................................... page 72 Ally b Boutique................................................................................. page 57 aNn Monograms.............................................................................. page 45 Archbold Medical Center.................................................................. page 50 Barberitos........................................................................................ page 34 Best Western/Holiday Inn Express..................................................... page 70 BloughTech...................................................................................... page 30 Blush Salon & Spa............................................................................ page 49 Bobby Dollar.................................................................................... page 63 Brandon Godwin Architect, LLC........................................................ page 59 Camellia Gardens Nursing Home...................................................... page 69 Chophouse on the Bricks................................................................. page 58 CNS TV........................................................................................ back cover Commercial Bank.............................................................. .inside back cover Downtown Thomasville..................................................................... page 56 Edward Jones/Ali McKay................................................................. page 4 Farm Bureau.................................................................................... page 27 Farm Credit Southwest Georgia ....................................................... page 23 Flourish............................................................................................ page 40 Flowers Autogroup........................................................................... page 67 FMB................................................................................................ page 47 Green's Air Conditioning & Commercial Refrigeration.......................... page 65 Hampton Inn.................................................................................... page 65 J. Smith Lanier & Co......................................................................... page 31 Kathy’s............................................................................................. page 57 Keysouth.......................................................................................... page 35 Kres Jewelers................................................................................... page 57 Kt Ccreative..................................................................................... page 45 Legacy Village at Plantation Manor..................................................... page 41 74 Lotus Yoga....................................................................................... page 60

Mariam Mirabzadeh.......................................................................... page 10 Mclanahan Studio............................................................................. page 15 New Hire Solutions........................................................................... page 4 Panaprint ......................................................................................... page 71 Pelicanno Construction..................................................................... page 53 Pink Valise Boutique......................................................................... page 58 Philmore Antiques & Gifts.................................................................. page 26 Q Cafe............................................................................................. page 58 R. Brown & Company....................................................................... page 26 Robin Wise...................................................................................... page 11 Ryan & Kate Photography ................................................................ page 37 Savannah Court of Camilla................................................................ page 62 Singletary Tire Service ...................................................................... page 74 SoHo............................................................................................... page 60 Southern Elegance & Charm Boutique............................................... page 58 Southern Heritage............................................................................ page 53 Southern Pines................................................................................. page 7 Southern Vascular Services............................................................... page 48 State Farm ...................................................................................... page 20 Taste of Thomasville.......................................................................... page 60 Taylor Benefit Resource.................................................................... page 49 The Gift Shop................................................................................... page 24 The Plaza Restaurant & Lounge ........................................................ page 56 Thomas County Federal.................................................................... page 3 Thomas County History.................................................................... page 13 Thomasville Dental Center.................................................... inside front cover Thomasville National Bank................................................................. page 36 Trolly's ............................................................................................. page 60 Whiddon-Shiver Funeral Home.......................................................... page 73 YMCA.............................................................................................. page 21

SAME GREAT PEOPLE, SAME GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE, NEW NAME!

401 N. MADISON ST. THOMASVILLE GA 31792

229.226.2842

Your friend and neighbor for 100 years.

Commercial Bank is celebrating 100 years of service to the community. Over the years, we’ve shared hopes and dreams, overcome obstacles and grown stronger, together. Here is a great place to be. Your friend. Your neighbor. Your bank.

Thomasville • Boston bankcb.com Photo by Van Jones Martin Banking products are provided by Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Divisions of Synovus Bank operate under multiple trade names across the Southeast.